Alignment, Breath & Drishti Cues for Moon Salutation
Moon Salutation (Chandra Namaskar) belongs to the Surya Namaskar posture family and engages the Full Body, Inner Thighs, Quads at an intensity of approximately 3.5 METs. A lateral, cooling counterpart to the sun salutation moving through goddess, triangle and side lunges. Modern in origin and explicitly pitta-pacifying.
- Breath Rhythm: Maintain One breath per movement throughout the 300-second hold so nervous system tone remains steady.
- Visual Focal Point (Drishti): Direct the gaze toward Varies to quiet peripheral distraction and stabilize balance.
- Primary Anatomical Focus: Concentrates mechanical load and mobility across Full Body, Inner Thighs, Quads.
- Minimum Recommended Age: 5 years (60 months).
Ayurvedic Dosha Profile (Vāta, Pitta & Kapha)
In Ayurvedic asana sequencing (Dosha Provenance: modern-synthesis), every posture shifts Vata, Pitta, and Kapha according to its mechanical compression, heat generation, and grounding stability:
- Vāta Effect: Pacifies (-1) — pair with slow nasal breathing and unhurried transitions to prevent excess mobility or dryness.
- Pitta Effect: Strongly Pacifies (-2) — keep the jaw, temples, and abdomen soft when holding for 300 seconds.
- Kapha Effect: Pacifies (-1) — link into dynamic flows or longer holds when seeking metabolic stimulation.
Contraindications & Safety Precautions
- Knee injury
