Soon, it will be that time of the month again, when the moon shines brightest and fullest for us. The full moon has a magical influence on us, from those who praise it for its divine powers to those who despise it and blame it for sleepless nights and mood swings. The sun and the moon are in opposition during a full moon, and this opposition can be full of energetic and emotional strain, leaving us feeling puzzled or dissatisfied.
The moon has long held a particular position in ancient indigenous civilizations, and it was worshipped for its rhythms of life and the universe. Every month, the moon goes through distinct phases, much as we do in our lives. The moon is always with us, whether or not it can be seen.
The moon has a divine feminine essence, yin energy, and is responsible for our innermost emotional state, according to astrology. Yin energies are calming and gentle, and they are associated with darkness and water. They are the “being” portion of ourselves who observe, as opposed to the yang part of us that is in the “doing” state. As the sun shines on the moon during a full moon, the yang energies are intensified. The sun and moon take on a fascinating duality aspect because of this.
The moon is commonly referred to as ‘grandmother moon’ in Native American cultures, stressing its highly feminine aspect.
WHAT IS THE SIGNIFICANCE OF THE FULL MOON CELEBRATION?
The moon begins a new cycle around the earth every month. A moon cycle begins with the new moon when the moon is visible to the naked eye because it lies between the earth and the sun. The moon then waxes until it reaches the full moon, the highest point in the lunar cycle. The moon returns to its waning phase after the full moon, until the cycle begins again with the new moon.
The full moon has been revered in ancient societies for its enchantment, mystery, and unique energy for thousands of years. It’s a moment to get together as a community, expel negative energies, and recognize what we’ve accomplished since the new moon.
Full moons are tremendous instruments for letting go of unwanted energy, purifying, and releasing what no longer serves us in our lives. The full moon accentuates the effect. Just as the moon is shone upon by the sun, our emotions and energies are brought to light so that we can work with them.
Full moons are a time for action, according to astrology. We are encouraged to perform the required work to put our dreams into reality when the moon is at its brightest and most active. The full moon’s light guides us to where we need to focus and shift our energies.
Moon rituals and ceremonies can be utilized as a powerful tool to self-reflect and make necessary changes in your life in order to harness the wonderful power of the full moon. Moon dances, ceremonies, and rituals have been practiced for millennia. From the ancient Celts to the Egyptians, evidence of moon worship has been discovered at archaeological sites all over the world. The lunar disc – a flat, shining figure worn as a medallion or as part of a crown, believed to signify the moon and related things – was the most prevalent symbol. Some full moon rites, however, are still practiced today.
The following rituals from ancient societies around the world can give you ideas and inspiration for your own moon ceremony, which you can utilize to harness the moon’s magical power.
MEXICO’S MOON DANCE
Besides the sun dance, Native Americans have an ancient indigenous practice known as the moon dance. Both dances feature a community gathering and a focus on prayer and dancing to heal. The moon dance also honors Mother Earth and the feminine energies. Its goal is to reconnect women, men, and children with the Earth and the moon’s essence. On the full moon, there is a three-day ceremonial dance. Under the light of the moon, the community gathers to dance, sing, and exchange ancient teachings. The days are used for rest and recharge.
FULL MOON RITUAL IN HINDUISM
Hindus believe that the full moon has a significant impact on the human body, much as it does on earth’s water bodies through the tide cycle. It makes sense when we consider that our bodies comprise around 65 percent water. People may become restless, impatient, and even ‘lunatic’ under a full moon, a phrase derived from the Latin word for moon, “luna.” Full moon rites are also observed by Hindus.
The full moon day is known as ‘Purnima’ in Hinduism. In the Hindu calendar, this is a very auspicious day that brings prosperity and happiness. As a result, it is commemorated by observing a strict fast from sunrise to sunset and praying to Lord Vishnu, the presiding god. They take a plunge into the river and eat some light meal at dusk after a day of fasting, praying, and contemplating.
RITUALS OF THE PAGANS
For generations, our forefathers have lived with the seasons and lunar cycles, and they have worshipped the moon to get good luck and fortune for their harvest and fertility. The moon was a trustworthy source of connection to one’s inner state and the world in ancient times. Unfortunately, because of the rise of digital technology in the previous century, we have forgotten part of the mystique of this old celestial object.
Pagan Wiccan (witchcraft) moon ceremonies adore the moon as a Goddess, related with fertility and reflect on the moon’s significance in nature and the cycles of life. Burning sage, making music, singing and dancing in sacred circles while looking at the moon, and burning and releasing what no longer serves you, physically and emotionally, are all part of the ceremonies and rituals.
DESIGN YOUR OWN FULL MOON CEREMONY
Hopefully, the above rituals and ceremonies have inspired you to create your own full moon ritual. Celebrating the full moon can be a highly effective method to blossom your personal growth. We learn to place our own lives in the framework of natural cycles. The full moon is always associated with death, transformation, and rebirth. It’s the ideal time to let go of the things that are preventing you from living your best life and realizing your true potential.
You can express thanks, meditate, pray, and work on your manifestations during the 48-hour window surrounding a full moon. Make a sacred space for yourself. Take a candle-lit bath and journal, or celebrate with others by forming a sharing circle, moving, meditating, and manifesting together.
