Moon days

Moon days are found in conjunction to nights with a full or new moon. Traditionally in Ashtanga vinyasa yoga, yoga postures (asanas) are not practiced the evening before or the morning after such a night. However, this is most relevant to those that practice intensively on a daily basis and therefore need designated resting days. We are open and teach full schedule also on moon days. All other yoga practices, e.g. pranayama (breath work) and meditation, should be continued regardless of the rhythm of the moon.

The image to the right shows the phase of the moon right now (local time).

The times above are Danish standard time equivalent to Central European standard time. From 25 March to 28 October times are stated in summer time.

Why not practice yoga on moon days?

The human body consists of approx. 70% water and like the ocean it is affected by the phases of the moon. Traditionally it was thought that when the moon was full and the tide at its highest, peoples emotions also reached a climax. The English word "lunatic" is thus directly derived from luna, the Latin word for moon. Also, the police statistics show an increase in accidents and assults around full moon...

The phases of the moon is determined by the relative positions of sun and moon in relation to the earth, and their relative positions affect our energy system differently. The phases of the moon follow a specific rhythm like the breath: The energy at full moon corresponds to the end of the inhalation when the life energy prana is at the maximum. It is an expansive and upward flowing energy that make us feel energetic and emotional and not very grounded. On the other hand, the energy at new moon corresponds to the end of the exhalation when the life energy apana is dominant. Apana is a downward flowing, contracting energy that makes us feel calm and grounded but also heavy and indisposed.

The same effect of the phases of the moon are true for all living creatures abounding in water. Thus, in older days it was recommended to sow at new moon to get well-rooted plants but to transplant at full moon when the blossoming is maximum...

So all in all we acknowledge and respect the rhythm of nature when we respect the moon days - and we get a chance to adjust to our own natural rhythm!

Can you practice asanas on moon days?

According to Sri K. Pattabhi Jois (Guruji) injuries take longer time to heal when they happen on moon days... If you practice anyway on a moon day take it easy - respect possible lack of energy or try to control excess energy, practice primary series only, and only do basic backbending like brigde pose (Urdhva Dhanurasana).

Current moon