High lunge is part of many yoga sequences, often used as a way to step back for Downward Facing Dog. Practiced on its own, it is an effective thigh strengthener. Ashta Chandrasana in Sanskrit means (Ashta) “eight” and (Chandra) “moon.”

Begin in Downward Facing Dog, then step your left foot forward between your hands with your left knee and shin aligned over your left ankle. With your hands or fingertips flat on the floor, square your hips toward the front of the mat, resting your left heel on the floor and bringing the crease of your left hip back. Finally, extend your right leg back, resting the ball of your foot on the mat. Stretch from the crown of your head to your right heel. Look slightly forward, keeping the back of your neck stretched. Hold the pose for one to five breaths and then repeat the same process on the other side.