Crescent Lunge (Ashta Chandrasana)

Targets the hip flexors, quads, core stabilizers, and shoulder girdle, with a subtle upper thoracic backbend when the arms sweep back. Helpful for building integrated strength through the lunge position, cultivating core stability under a tall arm reach, and creating an elegant transition within warrior sequences. The movement is an upright lunge with hips squared to the front, back leg long and strong, and arms lifted overhead slightly past vertical for a gentle heart-opening arc.

Cues

• Hug the front ribs in and lengthen the tailbone down as you reach up tall.