The Moon or Chandra and Sun are not merely celestial entities around the Earth - they are considered natural healers. The Sun and Moon help you connect with the energies that balance your dominating dosha. Ayurveda believes that the rising Sun has an antidepressant effect on your mind and that with the Moon you receive the same energy and balancing benefits.

The Moon known as Soma in Sanskrit; it is directly connected with Kapha dosha, an amalgamation of elements of water and Earth. Moon Phases have physical, mental and emotional effects on the body. The full Moon especially leaves a significant impact on an individual's thought process and nervous system.

Let's explore how many moon phases a month usually has and how they impact us physically, mentally, emotionally, and spiritually.

New Moon or Amavasya

The new Moon marks the beginning of the lunar cycle. The Moon sits between the Earth and the Sun and usually isn't visible to the human eye. The new Moon signifies stability, rebirth, potential and stillness. It is usually when the spiritual energies work at their best, making affirmations, setting new intentions, creating positivity around you, and even working on your to-do list that can soon turn your affirmations into reality. Performing a special moon ritual on the new Moon also helps balance your being.

Waxing Moon

The Waxing Moon phase begins after New Moon as the Moon starts appearing to grow fuller and bigger gradually. The waxing Moon represents progress and growth. The silver reflection occurs when the illuminated half of Soma's faces are far from Prithvi or Earth, with a small portion visible from Earth.

You may find yourself in the decision-making process, concentrating entirely on your upcoming goals and taking careful actions that eventually work out positively.

Full Moon or Poornima

Ayurveda mentions that the Moon has a calming effect on the human body-mind complex, the ancient healing method of the world. The soothing reflection is also considered therapy for health conditions like migraine, rashes and blood pressure. Our immunity is relatively high on Poornima or Full Moon. It also has a greater association with the feminine body and the menstrual cycle.

Pink Moon or Shukla Poornima: 16 April 2022

The Full Moon of April is called Pink Moon, and it is also nicknamed the Sprouting Grass Moon, Egg Moon and the Fish Moon. Chaitra Poornima is the day when Chandra Dev, the Moon god, is offered pudding made using rice and milk.

Waning Moon

The waning Moon appears to fade slowly though it is always there. The phases of the Waning Moon include waning gibbous, last quarter, and waning crescent. This moon phase symbolizes release and surrender. The waning Moon is a great time for cleansing and decluttering your mind, and it is a perfect time to self introspect in a quiet moment.

Take time during each phase to notice the Moon and the high and low tides of your emotions, it will take you closer to nature.