Moon practice, for that time of the month

With every turn of the cycle, many yogalilans take the opportunity to enjoy the benefits of a restorative yoga practice. Such a practice is designed to alleviate the discomfort or fatigue that may accompany the onset of the menstrual period. In addition to being deeply soothing and relaxing, there is an introspective quality to the practice that seems to create a feeling of comfort, solitude and sanctuary. Many yogalilans report relief of cramps, backache, and fatigue, as well as simply enjoying the release and sense of self-care in these supported postures. The need to unleash the inner Kali and destroy the world is often similarly eased. Arguably, the main beneficiary of a menstrual restorative practice could be everyone around you.

There are numerous sequences that can be followed, most of which are based on Iyengar style use of props.
We have found the sequences in the following books particularly helpful:

How to Use Yoga  by Mira Mehta
Yoga: The Path to Holistic Health by B.K.S. Iyengar
The Women's Book of Yoga and Health by  Linda Sparrowe and Patricia Walden -or the spin-off publication of this book containing only the menstrual cycle sections: Yoga for a Healthy Menstrual Cycle by Linda Sparrowe and Patrica Walden

There are also some excellent on-line sources for additional information and suggested sequences:

Questions answered by Geeta Iyengar

Yoga Practice and Menstruation

Asanas, the Menses series

A Private Road

Yoga with Ateeka - Moon cycle

Comments

[Analiza]

mishtidoiI have been following these clessas from California since the beginning of this year. This is a fun class. Aside from:Sun salutations ASun salutations B (variation back foot stays on toes)Here are the typical poses that you will also find in many of his other clessas:DigasanaTrikonasana + Parivritta (triangle + revolved)Pada Hastasana (hands under feet, forward fold)Prasarita Padottanasana (wide leg forward fold)Pincha Mayurasana (variation Dolphin or against the wall)Boat poseShoulder stand to halasanaAlso for fun are these uncommon 4th series poses. Don't let the 4th series deter you. As usual, Yogi Wade offers an easier variation.MulabandhasanaAkarna DhanurasanaPadangustha Dhanurasana (variation Dhanurasana)MarichyasanaSamanasanaParsva BakasanaEka Pada DhanurasanaParyankasanaMandalasana A from Prasarita Padottanasana