Mindfulness & Yoga Following Your Inner Rhythm

by Buffy Owens

Human beings are about 70% water and like all things of a watery nature we are affected by the phases of the moon. Each phase of the moon is determined by the its relative position to the sun and the earth. For instance, when the moon is full it rests on the opposite side of the earth from the sun. Thus the gravitational pull is divided with the moon pulling in one direction and the sun in another. New moons on the other hand, occur when the moon lies between the earth and the sun. Here the gravitational pull is heightened in one direction. These subtle differences throughout the various phases creates an 'energetic' or gravitational experiences that we can explored through a mindful practice of yoga and as women, through awareness of our (moon) menstrual cycle.

The moon has long been linked with the power and wisdom of the Woman's Cycle. Many cultures believe that the cycle of the female body is closely linked to phases of the moon. As a matter of fact, the terms "menstruation" and "menses" are derived from the Latin word mensis (month), which in turn relates to the Greek word mene (moon). This correlation may be due to the fact that the average mentrual cycle is 28 days and the fact that the moon also takes close to 28 days to revolve around the Earth (actually 27.32 days).

So what does all if the astronomy have to do with you and yoga?

Some authors believe that women who are not influenced by nightlighting ovulate with the full moon and menstruate with the new moon. Likewise traditional yoga studies explore the powerful link between the lunar cycles and prana or life energy.

In yoga, the full moon energy corresponds to the time when the force of prana is greatest. This is considered an expansive, upward moving force that makes us feel energetic and emotional, but not well grounded. During this time it is said that the main prana dwells in the head. As I mentioned earlier, the full moon is also the most prominent time for Ovulation. During the time of ovulation there is an abrupt rise in FSH (follicle-stimulating hormone), LH (luteinizing hormone) and estrogen. The rise of estrogen levels is associated with a rise in left-hemisphere activity (verbal fluency) and feelings of well-being. During this time women often experience a surge of energy and a clarity of mind. Ovulation, in a sense, is the peak time for mental and emotional creativity!

The new moon energy corresponds to the time when the force of apana is greatest. Apana is a contracting, downward moving force that makes us feel calm and grounded, but dense and less inclined towards physical exertion. Research has shown that most women start their menstrual periods during the darkest time of the new moon (between four and six A.M.). The time leading up to the menstrual cleansing brings with it the gifts of intuition and the ability to access to our subconscious. The rise in progesterone peaks just before menses and is associated with increased right brain activity and greater communication between the two hemispheres. Thus, this time is one of the greatest times to realize our subconscious workings and transform our lives.

Practicing Mindfulness and Yoga over time makes us more attuned to natural cycles. Observing moon days is one way to recognize and honor the rhythms of nature and the wisdom of our bodies. Back

"...it is all about learning to ride the lunar/moon cycle and the symbolic energy cycle within your period." - Menstruation.com

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