India, Sept. 11 -- When the Moon disappears from the night sky, you may see it as a dark night. In yogic and spiritual traditions, however, the New Moon, or Amavasya, carries a different meaning. It is seen as a time to slow down, turn inward and create space for meditation.

According to the Aatman Awareness Centre, Amavasya has traditionally held spiritual importance in India. The centre says the stillness associated with the New Moon can make it a meaningful time for spiritual practice.

Amavasya marks the point when the Moon is not visible from Earth. For spiritual seekers, that absence of light can become a symbol of turning attention away from the outside world.

The Aatman Awareness Centre explains that the lunar cycle has traditio...