There will be times in a woman’s life when she does not have a regular Menstrual Cycle. For example, when she is pregnant, when she is taking a hormonal contraceptive, when she is going through the stages of menopause, or due to an illness or medical condition.
During these times working with the rise and fall of the energies of the 29.5 Day Lunar Cycle can provide extra support and structure to her yoga practice. Connecting her back to the rhythms of the earth and the rhythm of her energy levels.
New Moon Phase
The Lunar Cycle begins with the New Moon. Barely visible in the sky as it slowly edges back to brightness. This very much mirrors the opening phase of the Menstrual Cycle, a time of retreat, as we return inwards to rest and reflect on our intentions for the cycle ahead.
Keep your New Moon Yoga Practice close to the earth throughout as a reminder of your connection to the rhythms of nature, moving slowly to conserve energy for the cycle ahead. Take a pause at the start of the practice to set your New Moon intention.
First Quarter Moon Phase
The Moon is growing in size and energy. She has moved a quarter of her way around the Earth, matching her very much to the Follicular Phase of the Menstrual Cycle. It’s time to step out of the shadows of menstruation. To invite more movement and play back into your life.
Begin your practice seated or lying down on your mat. Slowly rise to stand as you work with the rising energies of the Moon. Include asanas to challenge your balance and standing poses to build strength and focus as you work towards your New Moon Intention.
Full Moon Phase
We are at the mid-point of the Lunar Cycle. The Full Moon is shining bright again in the night sky. The mid-point of the Menstrual Cycle is the Ovulation Phase which is a time for you to shine bright on and off your yoga mat as you reach the peak of your energy.
Include an abundance of chest and heart-opening asanas throughout your practice. To release what is no longer serving you in order to make space for growing and working on your New Moon intention. End your practice by listing 3 things that you are grateful for so far this cycle.
Last Quarter Moon Phase
The Last Quarter Moon welcomes the Third Phase of the Lunar Cycle. Like the Luteal Phase of the Menstrual Cycle, it is a reminder to begin to transition to a slower pace of life now on and off your yoga mat. What can you let go of? Where can you slow down?
Add twists and folds to your practice to nourish your digestive organs, which can become a little sluggish at this time. Take your time in savasana.