Balancing

Half Moon

Very few people can practice the full expression of this pose. However, with the tree, it is possible for everyone. Begin an arm’s length away from the tree, then step back an additional 1 or 2 feet. Plant one foot with the toes facing towards the trunk. With the same-side arm, reach for the tree and plant the hand on the trunk. With the other hand on the hip, begin to lift the other leg. The hips, belly button, and toes of the lifted leg should be perpendicular to the toes of the planted foot. Taking the hand from the hip, extend the arm up. Reach through the fingertips and press back through the heel of the lifted leg to create maximum space. Practice for a couple of breaths on each side — mindfully entering, and mindfully exiting.