Harness the Full Moon: A Beginner’s Guide to Rituals + Crystals
Meet the Full Moon
The Full Moon is the lunar phase where the Earth is positioned between the Moon and the Sun. When this occurs, the moon is fully illuminated in the night sky, making it impossible to ignore. According to astrology, it marks the culmination of all the work put forth during the New and Waxing (growing) phases of the lunar cycle. Honor your hard work with celebration and relaxation. Over the next two weeks, as the moon melts away, use this time to retreat inward, consider making positive changes, release the things that no longer serve you, and gear up for the new lunar cycle to begin again.
Full Moon Rituals (Because Staring at the Moon isn't the Plan)
As the high point of the lunar cycle, the Full Moon is best spent basking in the glory of everything you’ve accomplished with a healthy dose of R & R (it’s okay to toot your own horn once in a while). In the days that follow, set yourself up for success with these rituals, plus a few tips on what to skip. Together, they’ll help you clear away the old, recharge your spirit, and step confidently into the next lunar cycle.
Meditate often in 5-10 minute sessions. Close your eyes and focus on the sound of your breath. If your mind wanders, refocus your attention on the air entering and exiting your body. Mindfully draw your awareness to the things that are no longer working. Release these things one at a time with an exhale of breath.
Connect with water under the Full Moon (or within a few days) to rejuvenate your soul and cleanse your body. Take advantage of this time to relax, come to center and restore your body to its full potential. Make a night of it by lighting candles, placing crystals, and popping open some wine. Discover some wonderful bath recipes here.
Write and release. Make a list of the things you want to let go of and speak them aloud with the intention of setting them free. Approach this ritual from a place of gratitude because, even if things didn’t work out, they served as valuable lessons to carry into the next New Moon cycle. Try saying, “Thank you, x, y, and z, for being part of my journey, but it’s no longer working and you’re free to move on,” or, “Thank you for the lesson, but I’m ready for something new.”
Crystals for Full Moon
Amethyst
As the Full Moon melts into the Waning Moon phase, it’s a time for inward reflection and letting go. Amethyst is a calming stone that clears away mental clutter, allowing you to see things as they truly are. Its soothing energy promotes a deep meditative state, creating space to reflect on your choices, celebrate your successes, and consider changes that better support your goals. Amethyst reminds us that there is great value in slowing down, reassessing, and refilling our cup before the next adventure begins.
Aquamarine
Aquamarine encourages you to have fun, embrace joy, and celebrate all you’ve achieved without judging yourself. Let loose for a moment and simply go with the flow. Trust where the tides might take you and release the urge to plan every minute of your day during the Waning Moon. This small act of embracing the unknown may spark an unexpected revelation or help connect a few loose ends. Aquamarine also opens the mind to hidden meanings and fresh perspectives while promoting trust, inner peace, and a little well-deserved self-care.
Black Tourmaline
Black Tourmaline is an excellent crystal for transforming negative energies in your surrounding environment. It encourages you to reflect objectively on the previous two weeks so you can see what worked out… and what definitely didn’t. As the light of the moon begins to dwindle, this grounding stone supports you as you release the things that are no longer serving you. In doing so, Black Tourmaline clears the way for necessary change, allowing you to flourish and grow with each new lunar cycle.
