It seems to be (in my experience, at least) that yoga teachers are slightly more obsessed with the moon than most people. I personally think this is a positive trait, as yoga teachers serve as trainers for the physical body as well as guides into a spiritual journey. For me, the spiritual side of the practice is as important as any, and I prefer my yoga teacher to be in tune with the natural world’s cycles, rhythms, and patterns, in order to help bridge the gap between the spiritual and physical worlds. At Amigas Surf Retreats, we have been lucky enough to find an amazing teacher who embodies just that. And she’s kind of obsessed with the moon.
Nikki Belcher comes from Chicago originally and moved to Nicaragua about a year ago to pursue her dreams of teaching yoga in paradise. Though she’s only been teaching for about a year and a half, her students will agree that there is something unique about the approach she takes, which combines a spiritual outlook with a restorative practice. Her classes are just what you need after a long day of surf and want to turn inward a bit. What I also love about Nikki is that she isn’t afraid to drink a beer after (or before) class and be my partner in crime when it comes to shenanigans around this place. Though serious about her practice and teaching, she will agree that sometimes you cannot take life too seriously, and we must enjoy each and every day. 
Here’s a post from her recently launched website, Fairy Lounge, about one of her most beloved topics: the moon. I also agree that the moon plays a big part in our lives as surfers, ladies, and water women worldwide and she did a beautiful job putting this importance into words.
From Nikki’s website, Fairy Lounge, here’s her take on our Luna Bella:
The Moon is commonly associated with the super natural powers and mystery.
Ruler our feminine, yin, cool energy. She is our intuitive (unconscious), nurturing,receptive and introspective side. Bringing refreshing clarity through the depths of the mysterious. Leader of our emotions, her luminescent light (reflection of light from the sun) encourages us to bring our awareness inward uncovering our wisdom and creativity.
Discovering the light within the darkness.
Although the Moon does not have a magnetic field of her own, we are highly effected by her gravitational pull on Earth. Earth’s satellite, the moon is essentially a messenger between Earth and the Universe. Controller of water, she is the music that prompts the ocean to dance. Tides tend to be more extreme during New and Full Moons.
Because the human body is about 70% water, the Moon holds immense power if we chose to tune into it.
Completing a full cycle every month, she is a symbolism of our internal cycles; physically, mentally, emotionally and spiritually.
Reminding us of our internal cycles, the New Moon (also known as Dark Moon) is a magical time for new beginnings and rebirth. During this phase, the Moon is not visible in the sky. An opportunity to begin again! Clean slate. Allow yourself to listen and honor your deepest needs and desires. This is a time to dream big! Discover the power and abilityto manifest your aspirations.
TODAY’S FORECAST:
Moon (unconscious) AND Sun (conscious) are in Scorpio with total Solar Eclipse. During a total Solar Eclipse, the Moon is directly in front of the Sun. While Sun ‘disappears’ for about four to seven minutes, the influx of energy from the Moon is magnified ten fold–lasting up to six months! Super powerful.
Scorpio is an expressive sign of deep emotions, transformation, passionateintimacy and sexuality. Exploring everything totally, Scorpio also representscreation and destruction. Now is a time to find freedom from toxicillusions. Clear space internally and discover strength in expressing your feelings.
***Trust the intimacy of your heart. Allow your SOUL to take lead and embrace the beauty of your Divinity***
