Saturdays and Moon Days in Ashtanga Yoga
In Vedic astrology, Saturday is ruled by Shani (Saturn), a planet associated with discipline, karma, obstacles, and deep introspection. Avoiding yoga practice on Saturdays, particularly in the Ashtanga Yoga lineage, is based on the belief that Saturn’s energy influences the body and mind in ways that may not be conducive to physical exertion.
Astrological Significance of Saturday and Its Influence on Yoga Practice
1.Saturn’s Heavy and Slow Energy
•Saturn represents slowness, discipline, endurance, and restriction.
•Its energy can feel heavy, making physical practice more challenging and potentially exhausting rather than energizing.
•Practicing intense asana on this day might lead to fatigue rather than rejuvenation.
2.Karmic Reflection and Rest
•In Vedic astrology, Saturn governs karma and self-discipline.
•Saturdays are considered a good day for self-reflection, meditation, and spiritual study rather than intense physical exertion.
•It is believed that by resting on this day, one allows Saturn’s influence to work inwardly, aiding in patience and acceptance.
3.Avoiding Injuries and Obstacles
•Saturn’s energy is linked to obstacles and delays.
•Some practitioners believe that practicing asana on Saturdays increases the likelihood of injuries or setbacks.
•Instead of physical practice, teachers and students may focus on chanting, meditation and introspection.
Traditional Rest Days in Ashtanga Yoga
As instructed by Sri K Pattabhi Jois, Ashtanga practitioners observe Saturdays as a rest day, along with full moon and new moon days. This aligns with the belief that honoring cosmic rhythms enhances balance in both body and mind.
While not all yoga traditions follow this practice, those who do, see it as an opportunity to honor Saturn’s influence, cultivate patience, and embrace the stillness that yoga ultimately leads to.
Additionally, in the Ashtanga Yoga tradition, practitioners typically refrain from practicing asana on the new moon (Amavasya) and full moon (Purnima). This practice is rooted in both yogic wisdom and astrological principles.
Astrological Significance of Moon Days in Yoga
1.Lunar Influence on Prana (Life Force Energy)
According to Vedic astrology and yogic philosophy, the moon governs the mind and emotions (manas). The waxing and waning of the moon influence the body’s energy levels, much like the moon’s gravitational pull affects the tides.
2.Full Moon: Expansive Energy
•During the full moon, prana (life force) is at its peak, making energy levels high but ungrounded. The new moon energy is comparable to the end of the inhale.
•This can lead to increased emotional intensity, restlessness, and susceptibility to injury.
•Astrologically, the full moon magnifies the present emotions and energies, which may lead to overexertion in asana practice.
3.New Moon: Grounding and Low Energy
•The new moon corresponds with apana (downward-moving energy), which is associated with grounding and eliminations well as the end of the exhaling breath.
•Energy levels are at their lowest, making it a time for rest, reflection, and inner work.
•In astrology, the new moon is a period of introspection and new beginnings rather than physical exertion.
Harmonizing with Cosmic Cycles
The avoidance of asana practice on moon days is a way of aligning with natural cycles. Instead of asana, practitioners may engage in meditation, pranayama, or self-study (svadhyaya), allowing the body and mind to reset.
This tradition, emphasized in the Ashtanga lineage, teaches yoga practitioners to cultivate awareness of nature’s rhythms, fostering balance in both practice and life. The new moon and full moon provide additional rest days, reducing the Ashtanga yoga asana practice to 5 days a week, every other week.
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