Chandra namaskar shiva rea prenatal yoga

Perhaps it is a reflection of our multi-tasking, strength-building, destination-driven American culture that the most ubiquitous sequence in our collective yoga practice is the ultimate heat builder, the Sun Salutation.

The sequence’s Sanskrit name, Surya Namaskar, literally translates to “bow to the sun.” As you lift your arms and then bow down, lengthen forward and then jump back, you begin to embody the warmth of solar energy.

You stretch, strengthen, and heat your whole being from the inside out.

But on days when you’re feeling depleted, overstimulated, or overheated, it’s helpful to know that Surya Namaskar has a soothing sister sequence known as Chandra Namaskar, or Moon Salutation.

As the name suggests, Chandra Namaskar is a quieting sequence that invites you to acknowledge and c