Full Moon Ritual
Updated: Feb 22, 2022
“The Moon is earth’s oldest temple holding the potency of countless prayers since the dawn of time …a bell whose ringing brings you into the field of the Mother, where body and soul can quietly drink.” – Dana Gerhardt, Astrologer & Author
Wisdom revolving around the Moon has been around for centuries. Growers used (and still use) Moon cycles for planting and harvesting. Her whereabout were and are closely monitored by sailors because of her strong tidal influences. The Full Moon in particular has a significant role in many cultural calendars, specifically the Native American and Islamic, and the Moon (and Sun) positions are the backbone of the work done by astrologers.
Working with the Moon is about inner work at an emotional and sub-conscious level. And the good news is you don't need to be an astrologer or astronomer to work with the natural rhythms of the Moon.
When the Moon is full, she is at the highest point of her lunar cycle, brimming with bright light to shine into the darkest, deepest corners of your soul. It is the single most powerful time of the month for looking within, for mending, for breaking down barriers and for releasing the past. It is the ideal time to surrender negative energies and old patterns that no longer serve you. It is a time to pause and reflect on all you have planned and taken action on since the start of the New Moon.
Think of the Full Moon as shining a light down a darkened path, allowing you to clearly see that which is in the shadows. You gain perspective on where you are with the life you imagine to have. You reflect on the dreams and goals you have in order to live your best life. Based on this, you determine what to change, continue with, or release over the coming two weeks.
Also note that when the Moon is Full, she opposes the Sun. This means they are in opposite signs of the zodiac, so pay attention to where they are at the time of the Full Moon. If the Sun is in Virgo, then the Moon has to be in the opposite sign of Pisces. Make sure you include these energies when doing your rituals as this is prime time to determine what in your life may be out of balance. Pay attention to the serendipitous happenings which draw your attention to the need for harmony in your life.
You may wish to incorporate the elemental energy of the zodiac into your ritual. By doing so you strengthen the intent.
Astrological elements:
Earth: Capricorn, Taurus, Virgo
(crystals* e.g. malachite, stones, wood, salt)
Air: Aquarius, Gemini, Libra
(feathers, sage, incense*)
Water: Pisces, Cancer, Scorpio
(chalice, moonstone, sea shells)
Fire: Aries, Leo, Sagittarius
(candles, incense*, crystals* e.g. carnelian)
*Objects can represent more than one element e.g. crystals can represent one of the elements and incense can symbolize both fire and air.
But don't stop there. You can incorporate anything you wish into the ritual: various scents, music, symbols, Oracle or Tarot cards - whatever your little heart desires.
If you're not sure where to begin, start with this simple ritual, and build from there to make it your own. Remember, the magic is in your intention.
What you'll need:
Pen and paper.
Grimoire or Shadow Book if you keep one, or any book dedicated to ritual work.
Sage or Juniper (if you have it), a feather if you wish
Abalone shell or burning container; pot with lid works just as well
Candle
Matches
Any additional items you wish to incorporate e.g. crystals, music, Oracle cards etc.
Your New Moon intentions, if you have them.
Ritual:
Find a private space where you will not be interrupted, and place the items you wish to include in your ritual in a way that is meaningful to you.
When ready, burn sage to clear and cleanse the air.
Light the candle.
Sit comfortably and review your Grimoire or Shadow Book.
When ready, close your eyes. Place your right hand on your heart chakra, and leave your left hand open, palm up, to receive. Pay attention to your breathing - slow and even.
Allow your thoughts to review all that has taken place over the last two weeks. What were your achievements, what requires more work? What needs to shift? Or set free? Explore your heart, bringing to light all that you wish to surrender – negative self-talk, self-limiting beliefs and habits, person(s) or situation(s) in your life that drain your precious energy.
When ready, write all those insights down on a separate piece of paper. Also include all things you wish to surrender that are beyond your control – pain, loss, the weary world.
When finished, reread your list and when you're satisfied, burn your list, using the abalone or other recepticle.
In your Grimoire, Shadow Book, or other notebook create new intentions, focusing on what you wish to balance, release, or let go of over the next 14 days as you move towards the New Moon.
Re-read the list and if you're willing, say them outlaid. If you're not sure what to say, try:
"As my list of negativities vanish with the ashes,
may they be released from my mind, heart, body and soul.
I give thanks for the gifts of genius within past pains and disappointments, surrendering any attachments as they do not define me.
I am a loving and creative being, trusting in the flow of life,
as I move forward a little lighter and a little wiser. So be it."
Because the Moon energy tends to be emotionally based, make sure to review and reflect on how you are feeling. Remember also that intuition plays a major role. Trust how you ‘feel’ about something instead of looking for concrete confirmations.
Above all, the Full Moon reminds you to be gentle with yourself.
