Spiritual Meaning of the Full Moon

There is nothing quite like being outside under the light of a full moon. The full moon has been the inspiration for poetry, songs, and movies, (remember the 1987 classic Moonstruck?) The full moon’s spiritual meaning illuminates a time of heightened emotions and potent creativity.

When the moon is fully illuminated by the sun’s rays, the view from Earth is that of a complete orb, seemingly emitting its own light. Time spent under this reflected light of the full moon has the power to be transformational, intense, and inspiring. It can also add intensity to whatever emotions are living in you, so it’s helpful to be intentional about what you are focusing on.

[Read: “Hand Reflexology for the Full Moon.”]

Spiritual Meaning of the Full Moon

The full moon offers an opportunity to sit in the fullness of your life. It is a time to feel deep gratitude for the many blessings you have and experience. It is also a powerful time to recommit yourself to the projects and relationships that mean the most to you. Let the light of the full moon illuminate what is working for you and amplify those areas by being intentional about the ways you will move forward in your life. The practice of gratitude is both simple and profound, and the energy of a full moon can create a heightened experience of bliss as you bask in all of the goodness that surrounds you.

There is a profound and spiritual connection between the full moon, the tides, and our emotions. The full moon is often experienced as a time of deep emotional intensity. Just as the full moon pulls on the tides and creates more dramatic tidal changes between highs and lows, some people experience the same in their emotional lives. Bringing awareness to the lunar cycle and preparing yourself through meditation and scheduling (perhaps the full moon is not the best time to have that big and possibly contentious talk with your partner) can go a long way in avoiding the emotional roller coaster that some people experience with this phase. Offer yourself a healthy dose of compassion and some extra self-care during this time of the lunar cycle.

[Read: “Full Moon Ritual Bath.”]

Spiritual Practice for the Full Moon

Creating a journaling practice with the lunar cycle offers insight into how you respond and feel the effects of each phase. With the full moon, try this contemplative practice, and adjust to allow it to serve you in the best way possible for your growth.

• Gather a journal, pen or pencils, and anything you need to be comfortable.
• If possible, spend some time in contemplation outside, under the light of the full moon. This is known as moon bathing. Open yourself up on an energetic level to the light of the moon and feel how your whole being comes alive in response.
• When you have completed your moon bath contemplation, sit with your journal where you have enough light to see.
• Begin by drawing or writing about your experience in the moon bath. Make note of any emotions that came up and any physical sensations you experienced. Also write down any ideas that popped into your mind.
• Write the words, “I am grateful for” and let yourself free-write anything that comes to mind, no matter how big or small. Keep going for as long as it feels natural. Don’t push yourself or bring any sense of strain to this exercise. Just let it flow.
• Start a fresh page and write the word “intentions” at the top. Cycle through the areas of your life as they pop into your mind, and write a simple intention for each one. This is a commitment to take action or give attention to these parts of your life. The energy of the full moon will act as an exclamation point, drawing these intentions to life in you.

Want more Moon Practices? See our collection.