Moon Days
Full and new moon days are observed as yoga holidays.
It has always been the tradition in Ashtanga Yoga to rest from āsana practice on new and full moon days.
Practising Ashtanga Yoga daily will bring us closer to our true nature and full potential as human beings. In this process we will become more attuned with natural cycles.
Observing the Moon phases is part of our development as yoga practitioners as our internal flow of energy is affected by them. Prāṇā is the essence of life. It keeps us alive and feeds and supports the energetic sheath within us. This sheath is called Prāṇāmaya Kosha.
The Full Moon corresponds to an upward flow of energy (Sthoola Prāṇā), in which we tend to feel less grounded and emotional. The New Moon corresponds to a downward flow of energy (Apāna) that makes us feel calm more grounded but also at times a bit heavier and dull.
During Full and New Moon āsana should not be practiced.