January
- New moon
- Full moon
Moon calendar
2026
Dates and times in Brasília · UTC−3
February
- New moon
- Full moon
March
- New moon
- Full moon
April
- New moon
- Full moon
May
- New moon
- Full moon
June
- New moon
- Full moon
July
- New moon
- Full moon
August
- New moon
- Full moon
September
- New moon
- Full moon
October
- New moon
- Full moon
November
- New moon
- Full moon
December
- New moon
- Full moon
Just as lunar cycles strongly influence the tides, they also influence our bodies and consequently our behaviour.
Through Yoga practice we become more attentive and connected to nature, noticing the agitation associated with the full moon and the calm of the new moon. This tradition invites us to observe ourselves and respect the changes in energy associated with the lunar cycle.
Following this tradition and observing the effects of the lunar cycle on body and mind, our shala does not open on the first day of the full or new moon.
Classes at Anusthana Yoga, Shala Aldeota, take place Monday to Friday at various times.
Our school does not open on the first day of the new or full moon, or on Sundays.
The menstrual cycle and Yoga practice
Generally, when women begin practising Ashtanga Yoga more regularly, three to six times a week, their menstrual cycles begin to align with the phases of the moon. Energetically, the woman’s hormonal cycle is understood to align with the lunar cycle, as it naturally should. Both processes are described as occurring over an interval of 28 days.
During menstruation, women are advised to respect this period and not practise during the most intense days, generally the first three. Inverted postures, however, should be avoided throughout the menstrual period.
The reason given for these restrictions is that apana vayu, the descending energy responsible for expelling and eliminating bodily waste and fluids, predominates during these days. Menstrual fluid needs to flow downwards and out, so the tradition advises against inverting and directing this energy upwards.
After approximately two months of regular Ashtanga Yoga practice, the menstrual cycle aligns with the lunar cycle and that, by balancing the endocrine system, any problem or pain related to the reproductive system or menstruation eases and disappears.