Why do Ashtangis take rest on Moon days?

I am always asked why I don’t practice on Full and New Moon days. The reason is because they are observed as yoga holidays in the Ashtanga Yoga tradition. Why is this this?
Do you believe we are affected by the phases of the moon? Human beings are made up of about 70-90% water, so why wouldn’t we be? Like the tides of the ocean are affected by the moon, so are humans.

“Two ‘planets’ [grahas] one place, very dangerous.” -Guruji

The phases of the moon are determined by the moon’s relative position to the sun. Full moons occur when they are in opposition to the sun and new moons when they are in conjunction. Creating an energetic line relative to the position of the Earth. When inline with one another the sun and moon create a gravitational pull on the Earth and everything of a watery nature… Including us, is affected. Based on their position they create different energetic sensations. The full moon energy is an expansive, upward moving force that makes us feel energetic and emotional, but not very grounded. The new moon energy is a contracting, downward moving force that makes us feel calm and grounded, but heavy and fatigued. Because of these extreme highs and lows in energy is exactly why we take days of rest.

The Farmers Almanac recommends planting seeds at the new moon when the rooting force is strongest and harvesting at the full moon when the flowering force is strongest. This goes with planting metaphorical seeds, seeds of manifestations, starting a new project/job/relationship and re-birthing. As well as, reaping rewards and watching your manifestations grow.

Kapotasana — When āsana practice is done daily, rest days are important for regeneration; and the extra biweekly ‘moon day’ comes as a welcomed respite.

Practicing Ashtanga Yoga over time makes us more attuned to the natural cycles of our body. Observing moon days is one way to recognize and honor the rhythms of nature so we can live in greater harmony with it.

Today is a new moon in Virgo. It is a day for planting seeds, manifestations, new beginnings, rebirth, fertility, setting intentions, setting goals and creating future visions. Virgo energy is all about cleansing and purification. Clearing out the old in order to make room for the new. It’s about being of service, healing, wholeness. This new moons focus is on us doing our inner and outer work. With the Sun still in Virgo, there is a high emphasis on the qualities of this sign. Flexible and practical, Virgos job is to create harmony amongst the chaos. So allow. Surrender. Let go. Trust. I recommend resting and rituals. Happy Moon Day! Namaste🙏🏼🌑🌟