How to Practice Yoga in Alignment With the Phases of the Moon

The moon is associated with feminine energy, intuition, retrospection and emotional wisdom. Learning about the phases of the moon can help women understand their own cycles more deeply, cultivating self-awareness around changing moods, energies and overall wellbeing. Each stage of the lunar cycle holds a powerful meaning that can be incorporated into a yoga practice to nurture feminine energy, support hormonal balance and deepen inner wisdom. Practicing in alignment with the moon also serves as a meaningful self-care ritual, one that can benefit anyone who embraces it.

Below is a guide to each phase of the moon and how to honour it through yoga.

1. New Moon 🌑

The new moon occurs when the moon sits between the earth and the sun on its orbital path, making only its dark side visible from earth. It is sometimes referred to as the invisible moon. This phase calls for rest and renewal. It is the ideal time to set meaningful intentions: what is there to achieve, and what is ready to be released? Gentle yoga styles such as restorative or yin are well suited to this phase. Recommended poses include Child's Pose, Forward Folds and Reclined Butterfly.

2. Waxing Moon 🌒

The waxing moon describes any phase between the new moon and the full moon, moving from waxing crescent through to waxing gibbous. The moon becomes increasingly visible each night, energy begins to build and the intentions set during the new moon start to take shape. This is the time to focus on strength and power in yoga practice. Strong standing poses such as Warrior II, Chair Pose and Tree Pose are all excellent choices. The body tends to feel energised and ready for challenge during this phase.

3. Full Moon 🌕

The full moon brings energy to its peak and a heightened sense of clarity. It can also bring feelings of overwhelm or burnout following the gradual energy build of the waxing phases. This is a time for release, letting go of emotions that may have been holding things back. A fluid, flow style practice suits this phase well, with heart and chest opening poses such as Wild Thing and Camel Pose encouraging liberation and expression.

4. Waning Moon 🌖

As the full moon passes, the moon begins its return to darkness, moving from waning gibbous through to waning crescent. Energy and motivation naturally start to decrease during this phase. It is an opportunity to release what no longer serves before the next lunar cycle begins. Deep, surrendering poses such as Savasana and Pigeon Pose are particularly beneficial at this time.

Other Ways to Honour the Lunar Cycle

• Keep a moon journal, writing down how you feel each day to explore how it aligns with the energy of the moon.
• Practice breathwork in alignment with the shifting energy of each lunar phase.
• Incorporate essential oils, crystals or other mindful tools during practice to support the release or cultivation of emotions appropriate to each phase.