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July 30, 2004
Harnessing Lunar Energy
Full Moon Rituals
The moon has always played an important
part in ancient spiritual practices. Since the beginning of time, people
have recognized lunar power, which is where the term, "lunacy" comes from.
Even today there is much speculation as to the affects of the moon's
phases, particularly the full moon, on our moods and behavior. The belief
behind full moon rituals is to harness lunar power to the benefit of
oneself and others.
Ceremonies performed at this phase of the moon are meant for empowerment,
as well to manifest positive changes. The full moon appears once every
29.53 days, therefore rituals can be performed almost every month,
sometimes even twice a month. And, you need not be outside or even see the
full moon to reap its powerful benefits.
There are many full moon rituals, some more complex than others, involving
magical tools and enhancements. Yet, many are quite simple, including a
moon bask which is just that, basking in the full moonlight and
meditating. You can do the ritual standing, sitting, or laying on the
ground, or even indoors if it's more practical. Just stand by a large
window, open if possible, and meditate on that which would enhance your
life.
One well-known ceremony is "Drawing Down the Moon," to connect with the
power and wisdom of the full moon. In Wicca traditions, a priestess
performs the ceremony in order for her to become the living embodiment of
the mood goddess. There are also rituals where all participants "draw down
the moon" to evoke the deity of the moon within themselves.
For a healing ritual, Selena Fox, of the Circle Craft tradition, offers
this Moon Mirror Healing. Place a silvered mirror face up on an altar or
sacred place so that the light of the full moon shines upon it. Place a
symbol to represent the one seeking healing in the center of the mirror.
The symbol may be a photo, piece of jewelry, lock of hair, or simply a
name on a card. Use the symbol on the mirror in the moonlight as a focal
point as you imagine that the one needing healing is becoming well and
then healthy. After the ritual, deliver the symbol to the subject of the
healing rite as an additional way of transmitting healing. Cleanse the
mirror you used by washing it with a mugwort solution or passing it
through the smoke from mugwort or another incense. In this way, the mirror
will be ready for use for another healing.
Whether you perform simple or elaborate full moon rituals, or just enjoy
the beauty of the full moon, you're participating in a long tradition of
showing appreciation for a powerful source of illumination. |
(Người gởi: Huệ Tánh)
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