The Full Moon in Cancer is here, illuminating the deepest corners of our psyche. This lunar event, associated with nurturing and emotional introspection, invites us to carve out space for self-reflection and healing. It’s a cosmic reminder to explore the balance between what we hold inside and what we’re ready to release. Paired with yoga, we can harmonize this celestial energy with purposeful movement, creating a space for both physical and emotional freedom.
The Emotional-Physical Connection
The Full Moon in Cancer often stirs emotions we’ve tucked away, surfacing old wounds or patterns of holding stress. For many of us, emotional tension shows up in the body—especially in the neck and shoulders. Stress can cause the muscles in the upper trapezius, levator scapulae, and lateral body to tighten, creating a cycle of discomfort and emotional heaviness. To address this, we must focus on two key actions: lengthening, to open the lateral body and relieve tension in the neck and shoulder girdle, and strengthening, to stabilize the shoulder and core to create freedom in movement and a sense of grounding.
The Moonlit Reflection Class Plan
Today’s yoga practice, “Moonlit Reflection,” is designed to honor the nurturing energy of Cancer while addressing the physical effects of emotional stress. Through restorative and strengthening poses, we connect to the natural rhythms of the universe and our own body.
Key Poses include Parighasana (Gate Pose) and Supta Padangusthasana (Reclined Hand-to-Big-Toe Pose). Gate Pose opens the lateral body, stretching the intercostal muscles, serratus anterior, and latissimus dorsi. With mindful alignment, it connects the pelvis, ribs, and shoulder, offering relief to a constricted neck. Supta Padangusthasana, often used to stretch the hamstrings, can also target the lateral line when slightly modified. By guiding the leg across the body, it gently stretches the lower side body, linking movement between the shoulders and pelvis. Together, these poses embody the Cancerian themes of nurture and introspection, offering a physical way to process the emotional energy of the Full Moon.
Setting the Mood
Set the mood by invoking the Full Moon’s energy with the affirmation:
“I open myself to the nurturing rhythms of the universe.”
Light a candle, play calming music, or chant the Anusara Invocation to center your heart.
Warm-Up and Core Practice
Begin your practice with gentle side stretches and lateral Cat-Cow variations to warm up the intercostals and spine. Transition into Parighasana, rooting your shin into the ground, extending your opposite arm overhead, and lengthening through the side body. Let the stretch extend from the pelvis to the shoulder, opening the ribs to facilitate deep breathing.
In Supta Padangusthasana, start with the leg extended upward to stretch the hamstrings, then gently cross the leg over the body, keeping the opposite shoulder grounded. Use this stretch to connect the lateral body to the shoulders and arms, softening tension in the neck.
Integrating and Closing
Integrate the practice with reclined twists to release the spine, Shoulder Bridge Pose to strengthen the core and stabilize the shoulders, and Supported Child’s Pose for a final lateral stretch. End in Savasana, placing one hand on your heart and the other on your belly, visualizing the Full Moon’s light illuminating your inner world and bringing clarity and release.
The Importance of the Lateral Body
The lateral body is where we connect breath, movement, and emotional flow. Stretching the intercostals, serratus anterior, and latissimus dorsi not only relieves physical tension but also opens us to deeper emotional awareness. By balancing this with core and shoulder stabilizers like the rhomboids and lower trapezius, we create a sense of grounding and strength—both physically and emotionally.
Honoring Cancer’s Wisdom
The Full Moon in Cancer is a time to nurture yourself and honor the emotions that surface. By integrating the movements of Parighasana and Supta Padangusthasana, this practice creates space to explore and release what no longer serves you. Through the physical opening of the neck, shoulders, and lateral body, you invite emotional healing and empowerment.
This is a practice of alignment—not just of the body, but of the heart and soul. Let the lunar energy guide you toward transformation, as you embrace your innate wisdom and strength.
“I honor the light within me as it illuminates my path toward freedom and peace.”
Take this Full Moon as an opportunity to connect deeply with yourself—your body, your emotions, and your inner rhythms. Let your yoga mat be the sanctuary where you process, release, and emerge renewed.
