How to harness the moon's power in 2020
Humans have always lived their lives according to the moon cycle. Farmers planted and harvested by the moon, buddhists practice extra spiritual reflection on full moon days, ashtanga yogis take rest during full and new moons, and many cultures still practice ceremonies according to the moon cycle to this day. The word "lunatic" came from the belief that the full moon induced mood swings and enhanced emotions. Since our bodies are made up of 70% water, and the moon affects the tides, it's not too far fetched to think the moon cycle may affect us. There are special practices associated with the moon's cycle that may help you harness the its energy.
NEW MOON: New moons symbolize the beginning of a lunar cycle. Farmers often planted on new moon days. They are a time for new beginnings, for attracting what you want into your life. New moons occur when the sun and moon are aligned with the earth, supposedly providing a burst of energy. New moon days are a perfect time to set goals, begin projects, and meditate on what you want your life to look like in the future. To enhance the power of your intentions, it's helpful to write them down, or vision board them so you can see them for the rest of the month. What you think and feel has extra power on new moon days. Take time to get quiet, light some incense, practice gratitude, and truly think about what you are wanting to bring into fruition.
FULL MOON: Full moons occur when the sun and moon are in opposition with one another, creating tension between opposing forces. Full moons can enhance and illuminate whatever is going on emotionally. It's a time to notice any disharmony in your life. Thus, these days are a time to reflect on goals, and any progress you've made, or barriers you've encountered. They are also a time to reap the benefits of your hard work and end journeys. Farmers often harvested on full moon days and they may be a naturally perfect time to take rest and recharge. Journaling feelings, or progress towards goals may be a valuable practice to do on full moon days.
Typically, full moons and new moons happen every month thus providing at least 12 opportunities to set goals, and then reflect on them. Creating full moon and new moon rituals might just be the perfect way to set up a system supportive of intentional living. Full and new moons represent the yin and yang of life, the ebb and flow of energy and productivity with quiet and rest. We need both to live a balanced life, but with all the busyness of society today, it can be so difficult to maintain that balance, to back off from the “doing” and to take time for rest and recharge. Thus, the moon cycles can help to guide is into maintaining that balance and harmony. By creating new and full moon rituals, you might begin to bring balance into your energy while aligning your own energy with the earth’s. Check out my post on new moon rituals for joy and abundance here, and happy moon practicing you guys.