The Moon is in all of us, even if some don’t believe in that “woo-woo” stuff. Well, over here at Elsytara, we’re alllll about the woo-woo! And while there’s no steady amounts of evidence of how the Moon affects us, ask any first responder or doctor in the ER—there’s just something about the night of the full Moon.

On top of that, consider how we’re, at minimum, 50% made of water. Since the Moon itself affects the ocean’s tides…how could it not affect creatures filled halfway with water?

Every month, you’re provided opportunities to engage with Earth’s bestie, the Moon. You can use it as a symbol for the ending or beginning of things, depending on which phase you’re focusing on. You can bring some witchy practices into it, or just stare up at the sky to silently reflect.

But how can you bring yoga into this practice, especially with the upcoming New Moon?

What Does The New Moon Represent?

The New Moon is more than when Edward abandoned Bella—it’s a blank slate in the sky. It’s when you can see the most stars. It’s the perfect time for new beginnings (which Bella most definitely did not consider).

Creating affirmations, goals, or casting a spell during the New Moon is perfect for engaging in the future manifestations of the life you want.

How do we work yoga into it all?

Three Yoga Poses For The New Moon

Some people might assume I’d automatically go to Crescent Moon—but since it’s easy for hypermobile people to slide past their anatomical barrier if they aren’t working on retraining their limits, here are three yoga poses that will help you open up to new beginnings this month.

Reclined Butterfly

The reclined butterfly can be a fantastic New Moon yoga pose. When you incorporate a bolster or blanket under your back, it becomes a great chest-opener, which also helps center your Heart Chakra. If your hips are able, aim to hold this pose for around five minutes, focusing on your breath. However, move from the pose the moment your hips demand!

Modification: Use blocks under each thigh to allow your inner thighs to stretch, but not break past the anatomical barrier.

Props: You can place a bolster or blanket under your back/shoulders to open your heart and offer support if you’d like to sit in this pose for a period of time.

Tadasana

Tadasana is the underdog of yoga, in my opinion. For some, people believe Tadasana, otherwise known as Mountain Pose, is just standing there or where you end up after a salutation set. However, Tadasana is so much more than just standing. It’s a way for you to take stock of your balance, ground down with the Earth, engage your legs, and help align your pelvis with your heart.

Modification: Some instructors demand that the feet stay together, but keep your feet as close as you can, even if that means they’re not close at all.

Props: None Needed

Tree Pose

Focusing on a balancing pose is a great way to prepare yourself for balancing in the coming month. This pose is a huge favorite of mine because it requires focus, engaging every part of your body, and there’s always a new way to challenge yourself (close your eyes and see what happens!).

Never forget: Your foot should never be on the knee!

Modification: As you’re building your balance, you can start with the raised foot actually just balancing on the tip of a toe or even the ball of your foot. Bringing your foot up to the inside of your thigh could eventually be the end result, but always focus on what feels good for you and not what others are doing around you.

Props: If you’d like, a nearby chair can help you continue to build your balance and stave off the fear of falling.

Happy New Moon and Have A Wonderful Month!