Yoga by the Moon
You may have already noticed a very powerful connection between your cycle and the moon. Often theres some correlation between full moon ovulation/menstruation or this taking place during the new moon phase. Now, it's not always as straightforward as this because our hormonal shifts, modern life and other influences can all result in subtle changes. Regardless women tend to be most familiar with this shifting of internal spiralling and applying a lunar cyclical seasonal approach to our yoga practise can provide us with the opportunity to set intentions for our wellbeing, nurture our cyclical needs through the month and reflect on our deepest desires when the time is right.
Here's how we can use our January 2026 moon
🌕Full Moon - January 3rd Rather appropriately named the ‘stay at home’ moon, we’ll be making the most of the extra light (we’re hoping for clear skies) in the dark winter sky. We want to encourage downward movements that are grounding - adding balancing poses but not necessarily anything too strenuous. If your sleep is affected a yoga nidra and gentle pranayama breathing practise just before bed can help. Call yourself home there’s no need to be seeing any meaningful outreach right now.
🌓Last Quarter – 10th January Moving towards the new moon and it will feel much darker in the winter. Boost your mood – try to get outside in the daylight even for a short time. Lion’s breath and somatic movement can help to regulate and fortify the nervous system
🌑New Moon – 18th January This always feels like the longest month in history so at this point a Winter new moon may require added warmth and spice to our diet as well as our physical practise. Be kind to yourself – those ‘new habits’ you were encouraged to start aren’t going to feel so comforting and perhaps you’ve already ditched them. Start planning, set intentions but go with the flow. Give yourself permission to rest and snuggle under the duvet or bust out a few sun salutations to warm the tissues or perhaps a little yin muscle soother will do.
🌗 First Quarter – 26th January We’re almost there. A hopeful time nearing the end of a very long month and time for small celebrations and gratitude rising. Slowly adding a more energising element to your yoga practise can help awaken stagnation in readiness to build strength and resilience.
