The Moon
Why are we all so transfixed?
Scientifically it is a mass of rock matter orbiting our planet. It orbits in an elliptical path rather than circular which brings the moon closer to the earth at times exerting much more gravitational force and at other times farther away with very little effect. When we hear talk of supermoons we are referencing the rare occurrence when a full moon phase finds itself the closest the to the earth (perigee).
There are 13 moonths (cycles from new to full moon) in a year. Our calendar year has decidedly been divided into 12 months which causes overlaps in the timing of the moon cycles and gives us our colored moons; blue moon (second full moon in a month) and black moon (second new moon in a month).
The mass of the moon pulls our oceans and water ways towards it in rhythm with its daily turns. Its movements create our tides and a sort of breath in and out 2 times a day as they rise and fall. We ourselves are made of 50-65% water as adults. Is it then so outlandish to believe we are also effected by its movements? Could gravitational pull be it? If it were just science why is there a magical mysterious quality to it's phases?
Throughout history (herstory) humans have used the moon phases to guide their lives. When to plant, when to harvest, when to reach outward to create connections and when to look inward and work on the self. This significance has been passed down through generations and though it may not be as blatantly clear, we still time our calendar year by these traditions.
Today those that practice moon meditation are using the moons phases as guidelines for self help and setting affirmations much like all other forms of mediation. More women practice these mediations with the moon as we ourselves also cycle. The average natural women's cycle is 28 days the same length of the moon cycle and there are 13 of these. It is only natural that we feel these pulls from the moon and most women not regulating themselves with birth control find their cycles following the moon.
If you are interested in beginning your meditation with the moon, this Sunday the 26th of February is a new moon and the perfect time to begin! Think of moon meditation as a New Year's resolution, just repeated 13 times a year. It may seem like a lot to ask but we are constantly in a process of bettering ourselves and we all know it's much easier to work on small steps than it is to leap into a giant project. Go easy on yourself and set a goal/intention/wish/vow/promis
As with any other form of meditation, make certain to clear your mind and focus only on that goal. There are so many ways to meditate in accordance with your personal beliefs. Incorporate the meditation into your daily yoga routine, carve out personal time at home at night after dinner to sit in silence with your thoughts, create or join a group for new moon and full moon mediations. As with all goals we set for ourselves in life the power and energy to achieve them is within if we focus and concentrate our efforts!
Not sure what your focus should be this month? This Sunday's new moon is under the astrological sign of Pisces. Pisces is a powerful water sign that rules the oceans and represents surrender and release. This new moon also eclipses the sun and with the added energy this is a time to let go of trauma or deep hurting and to start to heal so our energy can focus on creating new healthy and loving emotions and experiences. If you are lucky enough to not have a deep hurt in your life the energy can work just as boldly for any negative feelings/thoughts you have been carrying with you. Vow to let go of work stress, forgive a friend or yourself of a misstep or mistake, let go of negative feelings towards yourself and others. As the moon grows in fullness you'll feel yourself replacing negative with positive.
