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.

2019 Moon Days

January
Sunday 6th – new
Sunday 20th – full

February
Monday 4th – new
Tuesday 19th – full

March
Wednesday 6th – new
Wednesday 20th – full

April
Friday 5th – new
Friday 19th – full

May
Sunday 5th – new
Sunday 19th – full

June
Monday 3rd – new
Monday 17th – full

July
Tuesday 2nd – new
Tuesday 16th – full

August
Thursday 1st – new
Thursday 15th – full
Friday 30th – new

September
Friday 13th – full
Sunday 29th – new

October
Sunday 13th – full
Monday 28th – new

November
Tuesday 12th – full
Tuesday 26th – new

December
Thursday 12th – full
Thursday 26th – new