Full Moon Yoga Sequence with Moon Salutation
Today’s sequence has been put together in honour of the full moon. Society typically encourages our solar, more masculine impulses, making it easy to pursue worldly achievement rather than inner awareness.
Although the aim of hatha yoga is to balance our lunar and solar energies. The word Ha meaning sun, and the word the meaning moon. Even our asana practice tends to reflect a bias for the solar. They often emphasise sun salutations and heating practices in the interest of physical fitness.
“chill out before we burn out.”
If the divine lunar force could speak, she might lovingly remind us to “chill out before we burn out.” Like a mother, the moon can teach us to slow down, listen to our own needs, and be receptive to change.
We can invoke and pay homage to the lunar energy in nature and within by practicing Chandra Namaskara, otherwise known as the moon salutation.
Moon Salutation – a full-body prayer
The 15 steps in the sequence below represent 15 lunar days; a 16th step honors the tantric goddess Shodashi, who presides over all the phases of the moon, as well as all that is perfect, complete, and beautiful. When practiced with devotion and gratitude for the divine feminine, this version of Chandra Namaskara can become a full-body prayer. An inward-moving and mildly calming practice, Chandra Namaskara can be practiced any time of day, including late afternoon and evening.
To bring an element of ritual into your practice, try it during the new and full moon phases. Try practising outside anytime under the moon itself. The sequence is safe to explore for anyone who practices sun salutations, and many women find it soothing during menstruation or pregnancy.
Move through the moon salutation slowly and mindfully, maintaining a smooth, deep, diaphragmatic breath. (Avoid using ujjayi breathing, which is heating). Tune in to a sense of devotion as you honor all the phases of the moon and the cycles of your life. Just as with the four seasons, the phases of the moon carry various qualities and intentions. If you practice yoga during the full moon, be prepared to experience new sensations. Feeling a little ungrounded or obstinate. Accept those feelings and try to create space and open yourself to the powerful energy of the moon.
Free Visualisation Meditation
I have attached a link below to take you to a free Visualisation Meditation script and audio file for the end of this practise.
