The Lunar Connection

In traditional Ashtanga yoga, we rest on full moon and new moon days— about two days per month. This practice came directly from Sri K. Pattabhi Jois, and it continues to be observed at the KPJAYI institute in Mysore, India, as well as at Ashtanga shalas around the world.

The Moon's Gravitational Influence

The moon's gravity affects the Earth's water—it creates ocean tides. Our bodies are roughly 70% water. While the effect on humans isn't as dramatic as ocean tides, the principle is the same: we are part of nature, not separate from it.

In yogic philosophy, this gravitational pull affects our prana(life force) in subtle ways:

• Full moon: Energy tends to be higher, more agitated—associated with prana (upward energy)
• New moon: Energy tends to be lower, more grounded—associated with apana (downward energy)

Neither extreme is ideal for the balanced, controlled practice of Ashtanga yoga.

Full Moon: Heightened Energy

The full moon brings expansion and intensity. You may have noticed you feel more energetic, less tired, maybe even a little "wired" around the full moon. This heightened state can make practice feel forced or overly ambitious.

There's a reason the word "lunatic" comes from "lunar"— cultures throughout history have observed changes in behavior around the full moon. In yoga, this energy can lead to overexertion and injury.

New Moon: Low Energy

The new moon brings contraction and inwardness. You might feel more tired, introspective, or less motivated during this time. Practice when energy is this low can feel like pushing through resistance rather than flowing.

The new moon is associated with new beginnings in many traditions— a time for contemplation rather than intense physical effort.

A Built-In Rest Cycle

Traditional Ashtanga is practiced six days a week, with Saturday as the weekly rest day. Adding moon days creates additional rest approximately every two weeks. This natural rhythm ensures the body gets adequate recovery time.

For dedicated practitioners, this is important. Without built-in rest, the intensity of daily practice can lead to burnout or injury. Moon days are not optional—they're part of the practice itself.

Honoring the Natural World

On a deeper level, observing moon days connects us to nature's cycles. Modern life often ignores natural rhythms—we have electric lights, climate control, and 24/7 schedules. Taking rest based on the moon reminds us that we are part of the natural world, not apart from it.

This is yoga in its broader sense: union. We are unified with the rhythms of the Earth and sky, not fighting against them.

Our Moon Day Calendar

We maintain a moon day calendar for each year so you know when the studio will be closed. Check the calendar before planning your practice week.