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Ardha Chandrasana is a standing posture that requires attention and balance. Legend has it Ganesh, the charming elephant - headed god adored by so many for his generous ways and clever antics, is also known for his wild infatuation with all things sweet. Despite of his love for sugary foods, he is a master of yoga, taking after his father, Shiva.
On one of his exploits, Ganesh consumed so many sweet cakes that his belly was full to bursting. He decided it was time to head home and hopped on his trusty "steed," a tiny mouse. A snake slithered onto their path and scared the mouse. The mouse darted one way, and Ganesh fell the other. When he hit the ground, his overstuffed belly exploded. Chandra (the moon) was watching the extravaganza, and couldn't help exploding into laughter. Ganesh was very upset at Chandra, he broke off his right tusk and hurled it at the moon. Pierced by the husk, Chandra's light went out. With no night, no dawn and no dusk, love was lost in the world. After some time and pleading from the gods, Ganesh agreed to compromise and let Chandra shine again but would be required to wax and wane, shining at its full potential only once every four weeks.
The moon's lesson... Everything we experience has an internal source of energy. Within our bodies, the moon represents the left side (ida nadi), whereas the sun presides over the right (pingala nadi). We need to balance two sides of the self upon our path to enlightenment.
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