Both new moon and full moon days are observed as days of rest from the asana practice in the Ashtanga Yoga tradition.

        The phases of the moon affect all things in nature which contain water, including human beings, who are about 70% water. The phases of the moon are determined by the moon’s relative position to the sun. New moons occur when they are in conjunction and full moons occur when they are in opposition. Both the sun and the moon exert a gravitational pull on the earth, which, according to their relative positions, create different energetic cycles and experiences. The new moon energy corresponds to a contracting, downward moving energy that may make us feel reflective and grounded, but also heavy and less inclined towards exerting ourselves physically. The full moon energy corresponds to an expansive, upward moving energy that may make us feel more energetic and emotional, but less grounded.

        Through regular, continuous practice of Ashtanga yoga, we expand our consciousness, creating a self-awareness that not only includes ourselves, but also our relation to the environment and the universe. By observing the moon days, we attune ourselves to the natural cycles and rhythms of the universe, so that we can live in greater harmony with nature and the environment.

        Female practitioners should also observe their personal moon cycles. In the Ashtanga Yoga tradition, women are advised to take rest from the asana practice during the first 3 days of their menstrual cycle. They should also refrain from doing any inverted asanas throughout their entire menstrual cycle.