In Ashtanga Yoga, it has always been a tradition to take to rest from asana practice on the days of the new moon, known as amavasya, and the full moon, known as purnima. The reason for this is that on these days, the gravitational forces of the sun and moon are greater and have a more pronounced effect on the planets. One observable effect of the sun and moon’s gravitational pull on the earth is that the ocean’s tides are higher and lower on these days. Their relative positions also create different energetic experiences. During the new moon, students can sense a heaviness and feel too tired to practice. During the full moon, the energy can often be frenetic and students are thought to be more prone to injury. Allowing extra rest on these days is therefore important for regeneration. Practicing Ashtanga Yoga over time makes us tune into the natural cycles of our bodies and our environment. Observing moon days keeps us in touch with these cycles of nature and brings us into greater harmony with it.

2017 Moon Days

January

Full:     January 12, 2007
New:    January 27, 2017

February

Full:     February 10, 2017
New:    February 26, 2017

March

Full:     March 12, 2017
New:    March 27, 2017

April

Full:     April 11, 2017
New:    April 26, 2017

May

Full:     May 10, 2017
New:    May 25, 2017

June

Full:     June 9, 2017
New:    June 23, 2017

July

Full:     July 9, 2017
New:    July 23, 2017

August

Full:     August 7, 2017
New:    August 21, 2017

September

Full:     September 6, 2017
New:    September 20, 2017

October

Full:     October 5, 2017
New:    October 19, 2017

November

Full:     November 4, 2017
New:    November 18, 2017

December

Full:     December 3, 2017
New:    December 18, 2017