Challenge accepted: Full moon yoga

Our infatuation with the moon is a tale as old as time. From the moon-worshipping pharaohs and ancient philosophers to current day scientists and Yogis, the Earth’s very own satellite affects the planet and everything on it — especially during a full moon.

With this in mind, I headed down to Talise Spa at Al Qasr Hotel, a full moon ago, to soak in some therapeutic moonbeams on the beach. A gentle breeze, a luminous orb and the sound of the waves was therapy in itself.

According to Yoga, moon-gazing is good for concentration and an exercise for the eyes. Yoga Instructor and well-being consultant Shibashis Chakraborty says, “The full moon energy corresponds to the end of inhalation when the force of prana (life) is greatest. This is an expansive, upward-moving force that makes us feel energetic and emotional.”

We all know that the moon has an effect on the sea. But what does this do for us? “Lunar energy has a direct effect on our second chakra, Swadhisthana, due to its water element,” explains Chakraborty. “Situated in the centre of our groin, this chakra is responsible for our basic needs. To balance this chakra during full moon yoga, we use lunar energy,” he says.

When selected relaxing asanas (yoga postures) are performed in moonlight, the effects include sparking new ideas, emotional control and self-realisation. The next full moon yoga session will be held on October 29.