Chandra Namaskara-Salutations to the Moon

yoga Apr 24, 2013

Photo Courtesy of www.danceislove.com

Depending on where you live in the world the Full Moon is on it's way April 25th or 26th.

The period around a full moon is considered to be a very auspicious time, as there is believed to be an abundance of spiritual energy available. This energy has the potential to produce wisdom, understanding, and inspiration in those that are receptive. Through quiet contemplation, meditation, and basic asana practice we can tap into this energy. So check the exact time of the full moon in your part of the world  Full Moon Calendar and practice the Half Moon Pose or the full Moon Salutation (See below) a few days before and of course, on the night of the full moon.

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Chandra Namaskara (Salute to the Moon) 1. Begin in Pranamasana (Prayer Pose)-Inhale and Exhale 2. Inhale to Hasta Uttanhasana (Raised Arm Pose) 3. Exhale to Padahastasana (Hand to Foot Pose) 4. Inhale to Ashwa Sanchalanasana(Equestrian Pose) continue to Ardha Chandrasana (Half Moon Pose) 5. Exhale to Parvatasnaa (Mountain Pose) 6. Hold the breath out and come into Ashtanga Namaskara (Eight Point Pose) 7. Inhale into Bhujangasana (Cobra Pose) 8. Exhale into Parvatasana (Mountain Pose) 10. Inhale to Equestrian Pose and continue into Half Moon Pose 11. Exhale to Padahastasana (Hand to Foot Pose) 12. Inhale to Hasta Uttanhasana (Raised Arm Pose) 13. Exhale to Pranamasana (Prayer Pose) Stand in Tadasana (Standing Base Position) for a few moments visualizing a full moon until the body settles and the breath slows. Finish the practice by lying in shavasana afterword and be aware of the positive energetic effects of the moon and the practice on your body, mind, and spirit.

Reference Asana, Pranayama,  Mudra, Bandha by Swami Satyananda Saraswati