Wednesday, October 12, 2016

Releasing with the Full Moon

By April Eckwielen

We can all agree that the Full Moon has a deep effect on things. At this highest point in the lunar cycle, things can seem scattered, anxious and downright weird. There is this surge of extra energy that is all around us and, for some, this can be quite overwhelming.

The Full Moon is a time to release things such as old habits, beliefs, material things, relationships, attitudes and anything that no longer serves you. It is also a time of celebration for allowing yourself to let go and emerge new.
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Picture by: Steve Eckwielen
The Moon represents the emotional, nurturing and creative parts of our lives. Just like it controls the tides of the ocean, it controls our need to let go. It is basically letting us know that we need to deal with our upsets and baggage that are affecting us negatively. Releasing these unwanted things in our lives can have a tremendous effect on our way of life. This is a time where we can go within and work on ourselves, heal, shift and forgive. The Full Moon shines brightly to bring light to ourselves that we may not see.

Performing a Full Moon Releasing Ritual can help you let go of this baggage and see yourself and your life in a whole new light. This ritual can be as simple or ornate as you wish. Here are some ideas to help you with your Full Moon Releasing Ritual:

  • Find a quiet and sacred space. A Full Moon Ritual can be deeply personal. You may choose to do this alone or with a few people that are close to you.  
  • Clear the space. To clear any negative energy and prepare for your ritual, you can burn sage,Palo Santo or other incense.  You can also clear the space using sound by ringing a bell or chime or playing a singing or crystal bowl.
  • Set up your space. Light a candle, set out your favorite crystals and get comfortable.  Close your eyes and focus on your breath.  Meditate on what it is you would like to release and how letting these things go will help you achieve the life you want.  
  • Write. Take to your journal and write down anything that comes up from your meditation. Allow yourself to write it out and let it go. You can even write what you are releasing on a piece of paper and burn it by placing it in a bowl and letting the universe take what you are releasing. Say to yourself, “ I release this from my life. I am letting go of what no longer serves me”.  
  • Reflect. Once you have released what no longer serves you, sit for a few minutes and visualize how you can move forward now that what was holding you back has been released. Write what you foresee happening in your journal and how you feel now that you have released what no longer serves you.
  • Renew. Take time to end your ritual with a detoxifying bath. Soak in a bath of Epsom salt, Himalayan salt, dried flower petals (rose, chamomile, lavender) and drops of essential oils (rose, jasmine, lavender, sandalwood). Prepare your bath with the same care as you did when performing your Full Moon Ritual. Light candles and surround yourself with calm.
  • Charge. The Full Moon is the perfect time to charge your crystals. Place those you want charged in a bowl or jar and place them outside in the moonlight. If weather is an issue, you can place them in your window to soak up the energy of the Moon.    

Full Moon rituals are very personal and can change with each cycle. Your intentions will shift.  What you need to let go of will change. Go with what feels comfortable to you and enjoy your time of release.