The influence of the moon on yoga

People are influenced by the moon every day. But not only humans are under its influence. In general, the phases of the moon directly affect various natural processes. For example, we know of the ebb and flow of the tides, which are also directly related to the moon. A person's mood can change depending on the moon's position. Because yoga has a profound influence on the body, mind, and soul, it can be directly linked to the phases of the moon and aligned accordingly. You'll find all the helpful information on the moon and yoga in this article.

The effect of the moon on humans

As already emphasized in the introduction, the moon has a very strong influence on people's lives. Many people report feeling different during a full moon than during a new moon, for example. This is completely normal. Depending on the phase of the moon, different systems or emotional worlds are active within us.

In general, the celestial body affects people's concentration, performance, and mood. It also influences eating habits, pain perception, and sleep. When people live in harmony with nature, they can reap the benefits of the moon. Depending on the lunar phase (full moon, new moon, waning, and waxing moon), various processes are active within us. In addition to the four lunar phases, the zodiac signs through which the moon moves also affect the body.

Living beings react to sunlight in the same way in everyday life. For example, sunny days are usually much more invigorating than rainy days.

The four phases of the moon

a) New Moon

It marks the beginning of every lunar cycle and thus has a significant impact on people. You can check the lunar calendar to see when the next new moon is.

This phase is characterized by the following features:

• Pause
• Standstill (time to reflect)
• New beginning
• Perfect timing to start new projects
• Ideal for gaining new strength

b) Waxing Moon

During this phase, it can be perceived as a crescent. The waxing occurs from right to left and is therefore easily recognized as a waxing moon.

• All constructive measures fall into this period
• The body is strengthened and nourished (this means that if you don't want to gain weight, you shouldn't eat too much, as the calories are easier to absorb)
• More creativity
• Self-confidence is often stronger
• Actively participate in the implementation of various projects

c) Full moon

The full moon phase has a direct impact on the body. Water is drawn from the body's cells and stored in the intercellular spaces. Generally, a lot of water retention occurs in the body, which may make you feel heavier.

• More sensitivity
• Perfect time for effective meditations to grow spiritually and learn more about yourself
• Feelings can be accepted and recorded in a journal. This cycle is especially important for sensitive people, as it provides them with even more motivation to acknowledge their feelings.
• The energy of the people can change a lot

The effect of the full moon can often last two or three nights per month.

d) Waning Moon

The full moon phase begins immediately after the waning moon. During this time, the crescent moon decreases from the right.

• Many feel much more vital and cheerful
• Recommended to get rid of old things
• If you want to lose weight, then this phase is perfect for you

How can you align your yoga practice with the phases of the moon?

As you've seen, the different types of yoga (Yin Yoga, Hatha Yoga, or Ashtanga Yoga) have a direct effect on the soul, mind, and body. If you align your asanas with the moon, you can do yourself a lot of good.

Hatha yoga is particularly popular with many yoginis. The word translates as sun (Ha) and moon (Tha) and incorporates the energies of these two celestial bodies. The special energies of the sun (activating and invigorating) are directly balanced with the calming energies of the moon. If you stimulate certain body zones or organs with Hatha yoga, the effect can be further enhanced by the appropriate phase of the moon and the corresponding zodiac sign. Hatha yoga aims to bring about holistic harmony. The most popular exercises include: headstand (Sirsasana), shoulder stand (Sarvangasana), forward bend (Paschimothanasana), cobra pose (Bhujangasana), locust pose (Shalabhasana), and others.

As already mentioned, you should keep in mind that the moon and its passage through the various zodiac signs have a direct impact on the body. This means that, for example, the neck or shoulders may be significantly stiffer when passing through the zodiac sign Taurus. You can learn a lot of this information from astrology and apply it to your everyday life. Therefore, don't worry if certain yoga exercises don't work as well during one phase of the moon as during another.

Your practice according to the different phases

a) New Moon

During this time, you can devote a lot of energy to introspection. Therefore, it's good to take time to sit on your meditation cushion every day and let your thoughts flow freely. It's also helpful to write down your feelings.

• Gentle and calm Hatha sequences are ideal
• Those who prefer Yin Yoga can integrate these postures into their daily routine
• Focus is on stimulating and harmonizing the sacral chakra

b) Waxing Moon

This moon phase is much more characterized by yang energy and is strongly connected to the solar plexus chakra.

• Create plans to achieve goals
• Focus on self-love, self-confidence
• The time can be used for challenging physical activities, i.e. Ashtanga/Vinyasa Yoga can be practiced without any problems

c) Full moon

Especially during a full moon, it's helpful to perform certain magical rituals. For example, you can write down things you're particularly grateful for.

• Yoga that opens the heart (cobra or camel, for example)
• Moon Salutation
• Yoga for heart and throat chakras
• Pranayama can further enhance the effect of yoga, improving your well-being drastically

d) Waning Moon

The phase of letting go begins – also in your yoga practice.

• Yin yoga
• Hatha Yoga
• Yoga Nidra (for very deep relaxation)

As you can see, it's possible to practice yoga according to the phases of the moon. In this context, it's essential—regardless of online recommendations—to continually check whether it feels right for you. This information will give you a starting point, but ultimately, it's important to always pay attention to what your body needs at this moment—and that could easily be a faster yoga flow during the waning phase of the moon. Listen to your body and your intuition, and you'll always find the right yoga poses.