Harness the power of the lunar cycle by hosting a moon ceremony…
A moon circle is a sacred gathering that honours key phases of the lunar cycle, typically the full moon and the new moon. Many ancient cultures used the circle to call upon the moon’s divine feminine energy and receive higher wisdom.
We depend on the natural cycles of the universe for survival; each moon phase reminds us that ultimately, we are one collective life force. These gatherings provide a powerful opportunity for growth, reflection, accountability and connection.
According to wellness and beauty writer, Lindsay Kellner, “people come to moon circles to set intentions, clear energy, work through something, gain clarity, and connect with themselves through communal energy”.
The moon has been shown to dictate the tides and affect rainfall, as beings that are are made up of 60-75% water it is no surprise that we too can be affected by lunar forces. Not only this but the moon works to a 29 day rhythm, broken into four phases, exactly the same as the menstrual cycle. A moon ritual is the perfect way to tap into this power and connect with the highest self.
New Moon: Set Intentions
The new moon is when the sun and moon are at the same place in orbit, this is the merging of masculine and feminine energy. It has been said this phase opens a portal between our conscious and unconscious mind, heightening intuition and connecting us to our spiritual guides.
The sky is completely dark, providing a blank canvas for the month ahead.
This is the perfect time to set intentions, go inwards and be still.
Full Moon: Reflect and Manifest
A full moon represents the completion of the lunar cycle. Emotions and feelings are heightened during this time, creating an opportunity to confront your shadows and move forwards.
The moon is at it’s biggest and brightest in the sky, symbolising the culmination of the month gone by and illuminating the things that no longer serve you.
The energy of the full moon is an opportunity to celebrate and express gratitude for the abundance in your life, to manifest the things you have worked towards and let go of the things holding you back.
@yogi.bunny_ Had a Moon Ceremony with friends & the vibe was immaculate 🌙🔮✨ Pulled tarot, drank wine, burnt bay leaves & used candle magic 🔥 Obsessed with these angelic women 😍 #witchtok #witchesoftiktok #moonceremony #fullmoon #newmoon #moonritual #frienddateideas #wholesomemoments #wholesomevibes #witchythings #witchyvibes ♬ Evergreen – Richy Mitch & the Coal Miners
Elements of a Moon Circle – Creating a Sacred Space
A moon gathering usually consists of a few key elements.
The circle is created with cushions, blankets or yoga mats; generally taking place in a comfortable setting with plenty of floor space, this can be indoors or outdoors (weather permitting).
This a safe space designed to help guests enjoy the moment, feel stillness and connect with the sacred parts of themselves.
There is always a moon altar in the centre of the circle.
1) Altar
An altar is a physical sacred space used for worship, meditation and spell work. Items on the altar may be themed around relevant celebrations or dates – for example, each moon ceremony takes place in a different astrological sign and each sign has its own special crystal, flower or essential oils.
These objects usually carry symbolism or resonate with the intention of the practice. Typical items include coloured candles, stones, jewellery, shells, herbs or feathers. Items such as crystals are often charged by the energy of the moon.
You may ask guests to bring items and invite them to add to the altar one at a time.
It is tradition to call on the four directions, represented by the four elements:
- North = Earth (plants, crystals, stones or anything earthly in nature)
- East = Air (essential oils, feathers, anything that represents a new beginning)
- South = Fire (candles, matches, orange / yellow / red items, anything that ignites passion or curiosity)
- West = Water (a bowl of water, shells, a chalice or anything that symbolises the sea)
2) Cleanse the Space before the Ritual
Don’t forget, it is very important to cleanse a space before you host a full moon ritual. You want to let go of stagnant or unwanted energy and make space for the new.
Be mindful that burning sage or palo santo has been linked with the cultural appropriation of indigenous people and environmental issues when farmed. Smoke cleansing can be achieved using herbs, wood or other safe-to-burn materials.
A diffuser is another way to cleanse a space using essential oils.
Make sure to reach every corner of the room and leave windows open to allow old energy to leave.
3) Opening the Circle
Don’t overthink the ceremony itself, there is no right or wrong way to open the circle! Take note of the collective energy of the group and act accordingly. Some hosts like to begin by calling on the elements or mother nature, others will light a candle, pull a tarot card or read a meaningful quote.
Once the circle is open the host can talk about the current moon phase and the energy it brings, the floor can then be opened for introductions and sharing thoughts or feelings.
4) Intention Setting or Journaling
Ask guests to write in a journal or on a piece of paper, writing down thoughts or reflections is an act of intention. This can be used at any point during the ceremony to go inward and make the experience as personal as possible.
Possible topics include intentions for the practice, reflections or feelings that come up throughout, things to be grateful for or manifestations. Write down anything that is meaningful to you.
5) Meditation
Most ceremonies involve some form of meditation or mindfulness. This is a fantastic tool to relax, ground and centre the group; often helping us to stay present and connected to the highest good.
This could be through guided meditation, a visualisation exercise or breath work. Maybe go around the circle afterwards and discuss what came up for each person.
Many hosts will also include chants, usually chanting a mantra or kriyas from kundalini yoga. If this isn’t something you are comfortable leading, invite a yoga instructor to take part.
6) Closing the Circle
This part of the ritual can be done in many ways, again it depends on the unique energy of the group and how it is best served.
Some circles will hold hands to create a circuit of love and light and close with an ‘om’, others may speak a communal affirmation. Whatever the action, it is important to close the practice on a positive note.
Some groups will arrange a form of nourishment following the ceremony, for example cacao or herbal tea.
Every Moon Ritual is Different
There is no perfect recipe for a moon ritual, the important thing is to create a safe space to harness the moon’s energy in a way that works for your group. So long as you are having fun and can take something from the experience, you have done it right!
These gatherings are a really powerful way to connect with like-minded people and feel unity. They are also a rare chance to slow down and look inwards, something that we don’t often get in our fast paced society.
No matter if you are hosting or attending, the main thing is to show up, be open and be present.
