A Friday the 13th Harvest Moon
It may sound like a tagline from a B movie, but we experienced a rare celestial event this weekend and are still basking in its full moon glow. The last time the United States experienced a full moon across its time zones on Friday the 13th was in October 2000. It will not occur again until August 2049. The term Harvest Moon was coined because the of the short span of time between sunset and moonrise at this time of year, which allowed farmers to harvest their summer crops into the evening in the days before tractor lights. So, what does all of this have to do with wellness?
It is said that the full moon has energy to amplify its impact – from the ocean’s tides to people’s moods to creativity. The moon also represents the feminine, given its cyclicality, as well as illumination, as it receives the light of the sun and reflects it back to earth. How might we harness this amplified feminine light energy?
Quite simply, this full moon reminds us of the importance of getting into a quiet space and reflecting on how the year has unfolded.
Harvest – Since a full moon symbolizes completion, what has come to fruition over the last days, weeks, months? Given that this is a Harvest Moon, what have the seasons brought you so far this year? What bounty have you reaped?
Gratitude – With all of your blessings in mind, how might you give thanks to all who were involved in bringing you this harvest? How will their efforts impact the new seeds you’ll be planting in the coming months?
Celebrate – Feel the joy of connecting with the season and the natural world around you. Soak up the night sky and moonshine. Revel in your favorite way.
As you celebrate, remember to give yourself a nod for taking the time to connect with the rhythms of your own life. It’s so important to put aside the constant “doing” in favor of some time for just “being.” It’s from this place of stillness and soul connection that both productivity and wellness thrive.
Journal Reflections: Are you aware of changes in energy that align with the cycles of the moon? Have you considered what practices you can incorporate at the time of a full moon? If the full moon is a reminder to pause, what areas of your life are working well and where may there be opportunity for adjustment?