Well, I've been a little off the grid since returning stateside. I felt that I needed to just rest and adjust back to NY life. So lots of sleep, some yoga, some socializing, but mostly just in my own bubble. So much has happened over the last 100+ days in my life, but also in those around me. At times I feel that I was only way for a short period of time, and in other instances I feel that I've been gone for a very very long. Time is an interesting concept, especially as I felt that I was time traveling while away, and now that I'm home things are moving very slowly. I'm aware of each hour of the day, and all the things that fill up the space between seconds. Needless to say I've stepped away from doing lots of things that I would consider part of my routine. I stopped blogging for a bit, I've stopped a daily Ashtanga practice, I've even had to change my diet, and sleep patterns. For those of you who know me well, know that there is rarely a day with out yoga in my life. That's not to say that I'm not practicing yoga in other ways, but for years I was such a physical yogi! Always on my mat, sometimes 2 times a day. I've found what I consider my softer side over the last month. I'm drawn to restful things. Let's be honest I'm sleeping for about 10 hours a day - DAMN. That's way more sleep than I can ever remember getting.
I've been practicing the other limbs of yoga, one being pranayama. Petri taught us this lovely seated breath sequence that includes Kumbhaka; which is the pause between an inhale and exhale. I've been doing 30 minutes every day and I've got to admit that breath work on it's own without combining it with physical asana is very powerful. I feel lighter, almost at peace. I am managing to get two maybe three days in of asana, but it varies from Ashtanga to hot vinyasa based on my mood. I did start to lift weights and I've been attending barre classes once a week too. I'm honestly just trying to get through most days feeling like I have the energy to make it past 6 PM. The reality is, I do have that energy I'm just undergoing a change of sorts that's making me feel low energy and tired. I don't think that can actually be the case given the massive amounts of sleep I've been getting. As Heidi told me in Purple Valley after my deep relaxation experience; She said that I wasn't low energy or tired, that I seemed at peace. That she could see it in my eyes. And you know I kinda shrugged it off at first, because to me I felt tired, but now that it's been over a month since my healing and trip abroad I think she was right. I do feel really at peace in life. If I start to tense anywhere in my body I immediately have to shake it off and let it go. I can't remember a time in life where I was ever this relaxed or at peace.
What does all this rambling above about resting and taking it easy have to do with the New Moon? Stick with me as I explain. Whenever we have a New Moon it's wise and suggested that the body take rest for a few days surrounding this lunar cycle. A New Moon can often be referred to as a Dark Moon or Resting Moon. It is true. Have you noticed how you're feeling in relation to a Moon; whether it was full or new, waning or waxing? The spiritual research foundation describes it best:
All objects including stars, planets and satellite bodies along with their gross (tangible) attributes emanate subtle (intangible) frequencies. These physical attributes and subtle-frequencies affect us in varying degrees at a physical and subtle-level. The frequencies emanating from the Moon affect the frequencies of the mental body, i.e. mind of human beings. By ‘mind’ we mean our feelings, emotions and desires. The mind consists of the conscious mind and the sub-conscious mind. Within the sub-conscious mind we have a number of impressions that are embedded that decide our basic nature and personality. We are however not aware of the thoughts or impressions in our sub-conscious mind. These impressions get collected over a number of lifetimes.
Perhaps you're not into the explanation provided above, so here is another alternative interpretation: "Each new moon initiates us into a new cycle. Reminds us that it is natural to be in a process of renewal. Reminds us that it is necessary to reset." -Chani Nicholas
So, when we have a New Moon often times our physical energy is feeling low because we're starting new, and that's all because of the frequencies that our body is picking up on. However, a heightened activity of the mind is observed as well. Dark Moons often suggest that dark energies or negativity is in abundance on these days, while that may be common thought it's all how you approach it. Of course we have to have dark and light to balance out the whole, however its a fantastic time to let go of things that are weighing us down to make space for something new. Several rituals could include:
- Resting and sleeping for longer periods of time
- Taking up yin or restorative yoga
- Fasting for 3 days around the New Moon; or eating all mindful and readily digestible foods to keep from taxing the digestive system
- Writing down your fears on a piece of paper and then burning or ripping it up
- Setting goals for the month ahead and all of the wonderful things you'd like to accomplish
This week begins with a fiery New Moon in Aries. As the first New Moon of the astrological year, this is a potent time for new beginnings and for upgrading the parts of your life that no longer serve you. Aries loves to begin things. Lives to launch itself into action. This Moon reminds us what we hold close in our hearts. The hopes and dreams we want and desire most are apparent now. This Moon forces us to take a look within to see what we've got stashed in there, once you find it you move forward from that place in your heart. Be fearless and strong, find the courage to keep the fire growing.
This new moon also initiates us into a new season, well we're still waiting for Spring here Upstate, but it's coming ... So everyone keeps saying. Light has shifted, our days are longer, the heartbeat of the planet has changed tempo. It is a fantastic time to align yourself with nature and with the lunar cycle. This is how magic is made. If you're looking for a bit more magic or some guidance join me tonight at Rise Yoga & Movement Arts at 7:30 PM for Rise Relax + Restore. We will focus on preparing our bodies for the New Moon. Namaste XX.