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Everything in nature evolves through cycles. As humans, we are no exception to this rhythmic pattern. Our lifetime itself, is a cycle of life through to death. All living things in this world echo similar phases to the moon as we expand, shed and evolve. Our 24-hour circadian cycle, our sleep and wake cycle, moves us from a state of awakening to activity, then gradually winding down before eventually falling asleep. As women, we can further connect to the moon and it’s phases, as we collectively experience an infradian cycle. This cycle involves fluctuations in our energy levels, which are influenced by the distribution of hormones throughout our monthly cycle.

In our manmade world of rigid schedules and hard inanimate objects, it’s easy to lose touch with this cyclical nature. Personally, I find solace in connecting with the moon’s energies and my own internal hormonal shifts to harmonies the relationship between the two.

The moon & the breath

The breath and the moon share an interesting relationship. Each breath is a cycle that consists of four parts: exhale, inhale, exhale, and hold. Similarly, the moon has four main phases: new, waxing, full, and waning. In this blog post, I’ll share how I connect with each phase through specific breathing practices.

Breathing with the New Moon

During the new moon or dark moon phase, the invitation is to rest, recover, and ground ourselves. This is a time for introspection and setting intentions for the new cycle. We would ideally live in our parasympathetic (rest & digest) state during this time. We may ask ourselves where do I want to direct my energy for this new cycle? To connect with this phase, try the following practice:

• Take a normal inhale and exhale.
• Suspend the breath (hold) at the bottom of your exhale.
• When you feel the first urge to breathe again, do so.

During this moment of stillness, observe how much you can relax and soften your physical body. Are there any areas that were habitually tense or tight? This practice allows us to embrace the pause before the new beginning.

Breathing with the Waxing Moon

The waxing moon represents a period of growth and progressive energy. We are invited to take action and pursue. We may ask ourselves what is exciting and motivating me right now? To connect with this phase, try the following practice:

• Create an ‘O’ shape with your lips as if using a straw.
• Inhale, drawing in the air.
• Wait until your lungs feel completely full, then close your lips and exhale through your nose.

During the inhalation, notice the feeling of full expansion and any heightened sensations you may experience. This practice aligns us with the life force energy needed to put ourselves out into the world.

Breathing with the Full Moon

The full moon is the peak of the lunar cycle, illuminating everything around us. It’s a time to find stillness and reflect on what is being lit up in our lives. We may ask at this time what is being brought up for me emotionally right now? To connect with this phase, try the following practice:

• Take a full breath in.
• Hold the breath at the top for as long as you comfortably can.
• When you feel the urge to exhale, breathe out slowly.

As you hold the breath, pay attention to the stir of energy and the feelings it creates within you. This practice allows us to embrace the pause at the top of the inhalation and delve into deeper self-awareness of what is true.

Breathing with the Waning Moon

The waning moon represents a period of release and turning inward. It’s a time to let go of what no longer serves us. We may ask what am I ready to release? To connect with this phase, try the following practice:

• Take a full breath in.
• Exhale slowly through a tiny gap between your lips, asif there was a a small puncture.
• Releasing the breath as slowly as you can.

Notice the feelings that arise as you exhale slowly. This practice allows us to embrace the releasing journey towards darkness and introspection.

Mantra with the Moon

Mantra is the use of word or sound that resonate with our body and mind, bringing about deep relaxation, clarity and altered states of consciousness. The mantra SA TA NA MA, represents the lunar cycle, translating to, shedding the old you and becoming the person you are meant to be, your true self. To practice this mantra:

• Sit in a comfortable position with your palms open on your lap or knees.
• Repeat silently or out loud the mantra ‘SA TA NA MA’
• As you say each mantra tap your thumb along each of your finger tips:

SA thumb taps index finger

TA thumb taps middle finger

NA thumb taps ring finger

MA thumb taps pinky finger

Connect with your hormonal energies

If you’re interested in exploring your own hormonal energies further, here are three ways you can do so:

• Free writing: Take the time to write freely, expressing whatever comes to mind each day. Explore your feelings and emotions to deepen your self-awareness. Just put your pen down on paper and become curious about what is coming up for you. 
• The Cycle Series: Join my 4-part online workshop designed to guide you back into connection with your cycle. This program includes yoga classes, breathwork exercises, guided journaling, and an e-book to support each phase of your cycle.
• One-to-one Sessions: Work with me individually to deepen your connection with yourself. Through therapeutic modalities such as movement, breathwork, and sound therapy, I will help you tune into the different energy levels you experience throughout your cycle.

Remember the journey back to yourself starts with listening to your body.

With love,

Jasmine x