In taking more time to pause, there are plenty of opportunities to notice the subtle changes of nature. The slow transitions of the seasons showcasing the birth of flowers in bloom, lighter evenings with earlier risings and hues of colour arising from the ground in unison. There is incredible synchronicity in the inevitable changes occurring externally and allowing those to reflect inwardly too. One of the most graceful examples of this can be seen within the ebb and flow of the moon. Witnessing the cyclic nature her illumination each month offers insight into the energy and rhythmicity that lies within. 

The phases of the moon that receive the most attention are the new and full moon. This is due to their contrasting, heightened energies and the belief that they hold the most manifesting power. They are also the easiest phases to understand if you’re new to harnessing the magic of the moon. Put simply, when the moon is full her brightness illuminates and her outward expression is stronger. Then, when the moon is a new phase darkness fills the sky and her energy turns inward. Mirroring these contrasting energies can offer clarity and refinement – presenting potent manifesting power. 

One of the most impactful ways to honour the phases of the moon is to practice rituals for the new moon and the full moon. Each of the phases lend to individual rituals, which make sense upon understanding their different meanings. 

New Moon

Meaning of the New Moon

When the sun and moon come into alignment (at the same degree astrologically) the sky falls into darkness with the moon’s light appearing invisible. Energetically, the sun’s yang energy merges with the moon’s yin essence offering a sense of balance. As the moon draws her light from the sky and directs it inward she invites a call for stillness. During a new moon, opportunity is presented to plant new seeds of desire and breathe life into any areas that are stagnated. 

Rituals for the New Moon

As its name suggests, the new moon is a time to draw in new beginnings and change. The darkness of the moon offers a moment to turn inward and be clear on what to bring into existence. It’s the phase that is associated with setting intentions. 

Clear the space

To invite in the new, it’s important to remove stagnant energy. This is something that can be done physically, through practicing in a clear space. Incense can assist in clearing the air. The Blue Lotus of this particular blend represents a flower opening up to welcome in a new day – a special synchronicity to the new moon arising. 

Connect within

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Find a comfortable seated position, close the eyes and place a hand on the heart. Here, New Moon crystals are a beautiful way to connect to particular energies. Aromatherapy oils infused with crystals can soothe from the outside in to assist drawing energy inward. 

Spend a few moments taking stock of feelings that arise in the body, mind and heartspace. 

Visualise highest self

Clearing space and connecting within invites in fluidity. With a lighter energy, visualise all that you are being called into. 

Ask:

What new beginnings do I want to step into? 

What intentions can I set to take those steps? 

One of the most powerful ways to make an intention a reality is to speak as if it is already in existence. Spend some time turning your “I intend to” into “I am” either aloud, in the mind or down on paper. 

Connect within again

Just as you did at the start of the ritual, spend time sitting with the feeling of connecting within. Notice how it feels to create this vision of a new beginning. Be still with all that arises and allow your being to embody each element. Close with gratitude to yourself for showing up to connect inward and for the moon for sharing her energy.  

Full Moon

Meaning of the Full Moon

A full Moon occurs when the Moon has moved in its orbit  so that Earth is “between” the Moon and the Sun. The Moon embodies feminine energy, making its fullness a portal for nourishment, creativity, gathering, grounding and intuition. During a Full Moon there is opportunity to welcome breakthroughs and use the heightened sense of intuition to release all that doesn’t serve.  

Rituals for the Full Moon

Due to its feminine energy, the full moon is the perfect opportunity to tap into the inner depths of intuition. It encourages taking a look at all that has arisen in the previous moon phase and being aware of all that hasn’t manifested yet. A full moon is associated with releasing and letting go to bridge the gap between the past and the future. 

Cleanse space

To mirror the full moon’s energy of releasing, spaces are traditionally cleansed before beginning a ritual. Smudging a space can be performed with sage or Palo Santo – which releases negative energy and promotes healing. 

Ground with a moon flow

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The heightened energy of the full moon can make it harder to find grounding. It is common to struggle to sleep and to feel a sense of chaos when the moon’s illumination is at it brightest. Practicing this Chandra Namaskara sequence flows with prana (downward) energy, which helps promote a cooling and calming essence. 

Take a moon bath

Now that you’re clear of all that needs to be released, take a moon bath by spending some time to soak up its illumination. This is a practice believed to help support natural rhythms and light sensitivity, which can improve regularity of menstrual cycles and sleep. 

Releasing ritual

Once connected to a deeper sense of grounding, clarity can be tapped into. Take a few moments to write down all that you want to manifest into existence. Then, write a list of all that you need to let go of to allow that to come into fruition. 

Ask

What has come into existence recently? 

What else do I want to invite in?

What do I need to let go of?

For extra releasing, it is traditional to burn the paper you write on – or scrunch it up tightly and dispose of it. 

 

 

Emma is a Yoga Teacher and Wellness Writer from Sussex, UK, who has spent the past two years travelling the world. Writing for mental health charities, hosting wellness workshops and teaching yoga across the globe. Her passion is to help people connect with themselves on a deeper level.




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