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The Moon and your Yoga Practice
YogaLondon on 02 August, 2010 |

If you are familiar with ashtanga yoga, you've probably been cautioned against practicing yoga at the time of a full or new moon. This has little to do with the popular notion of higher incidences of accidents and birthings during full moons, but more to do with our internal energies at these times.

A full moon is the product of the sun and moon at opposite ends of each other, and the earth fixed between. This positioning causes both the sun and moon to gravitate to the earth, resulting in the pulling of tides in bodies of water. Alternately, a new moon occurs when both the sun and moon are in conjunction.

The logic of the full moon extends to our bodies, as we are comprised of 70 percent water. Traditionally, yogis understand the sun and moon to represent the human body's polar energies. At the time of a full moon we experience a difference in energy levels known as prana, or an end of inhalation. New moons bring about apana, the end of exhalation.

Prana-huh? Apana-what? Each energy represents an extreme temperament. Prana is coupled with high-strung and emotional feelings. The danger in practicing yoga during prana is that the risk for injury increases. Apana is marked by feelings of calmness but also weariness. It's best to avoid yoga when consumed by these sensations.

Since the human body, like the earth, is mainly water we feel gravitational pulls and energetic forces similar to that of nature. It is best to go with nature than to fight against it. If you decide to practice yoga during the moon days, be sure to heed the ancients and take extra care and caution.