What if the most powerful part of your yoga practice wasn’t the movement,
but the moments when you chose to pause?
As I write this post, I realise that today is a Full Moon day and a Monday. Did you know Monday is named after the moon? In Latin, "dies Lunae" means "day of the moon," making today—the first full moon of 2025—the perfect time to pause and reflect.
In Ashtanga yoga, moon days are observed as rest days, a tradition that encourages us to step back from asana practice and align with the natural rhythms of the moon. These pauses, timed with the full and new moons, serve as reminders that yoga is not just about movement but also about balance—between effort and rest, doing and being.
When I first encountered the idea of moon days, it felt unnecessary. Why skip practice when consistency is such a cornerstone of Ashtanga?
But as I deepened my understanding, I realized these pauses weren’t about slacking off. They were about listening—to the body, to nature, and to the cycles that govern both.
The Role of the Moon
In yogic tradition, the phases of the moon reflect shifts in energy. The full moon is associated with heightened energy and emotion, often making us feel expansive or restless. The new moon, on the other hand, signals a dip in energy, a time to draw inward and reflect.
In Vedic astrology, the moon represents the mind, emotions, and intuition. The full moon is thought to amplify these qualities, bringing clarity or intensity, while the new moon offers a moment of introspection and renewal—a time to set intentions for the cycle ahead. Other cultures also hold deep reverence for the moon phases: from Native American traditions that align rituals with the lunar cycle to Chinese philosophy, where the moon symbolizes balance and harmony within Yin and Yang.
Practicing on these days can feel like pushing against the tide. Moon days invite us to lean into the natural flow instead, giving the body and mind time to recover.
When I practiced at the shala in Mysore, moon days were deeply ingrained in the rhythm of the community.
The stillness of those mornings—no sound of breath, no movement of mats—created space to reflect on what the practice truly meant beyond the physical postures.
The Power of Rest
Ashtanga is a rigorous practice, often six days a week. Without deliberate rest, it’s easy to overexert both body and mind. Moon days are a built-in reminder to pause, preventing burnout and fostering long-term sustainability in the practice.
But rest is more than just recovery—it’s a teacher. Moon days challenge our attachment to productivity and consistency, showing us that stepping back can be just as transformative as pushing forward.
For me, this was a hard lesson. I thrive on structure and momentum, and at first, moon days felt like interruptions. Over time, though, they became moments of clarity—an opportunity to reconnect with why I practice in the first place.
What to Do on a Moon Day
A moon day doesn’t have to mean doing nothing, though that’s perfectly valid if that’s what you need. Instead, think of it as a chance to shift focus.
Reflect: Take time to journal or meditate. What’s showing up for you in your practice and your life?
Study: Read a book on yoga philosophy, revisit the Yoga Sutras, or listen to a podcast that inspires you.
Move Gently: Stretch, walk, or enjoy slow, mindful movement that feels nourishing.
Rest Fully: Take a nap, savor a good meal, or simply allow yourself to be without a to-do list.
Personally, I use moon days to lean into activities I often overlook. It’s a chance to slow down, let go of expectations, and rediscover the quieter sides of practice—like gratitude, patience, and presence.
A Practice in Balance
Yoga is as much about resting as it is about striving. Moon days remind us to honor the balance that makes growth possible. They show us that stepping back isn’t giving up—it’s creating space for something deeper.
So the next time a moon day comes around, take it as an invitation. Pause. Breathe. Rest. Trust that in these moments of stillness, you’re cultivating the very essence of yoga.
Do you observe moon days? I’d love to hear how they’ve shaped your practice. Share your thoughts with me in the comments or connect with me on Instagram—I’d love to continue the conversation!
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