Self Care during the Full Moon
Rumor has it that the full moon can wreak havoc on our emotions, moods and physical comfort. Moon energies can be draining or can make us feel rowdy and erratic. Although there have been studies to see if this phenomenon can be scientifically explained there have been no real scientific findings on the matter - yet; hospital emergency rooms, psychiatric centers and police departments are said to watch the moon cycles and provide extra staff on these days because they notice more activity during these times. Not sure if it’s fact or fiction but I can tell you that if you have people in your life who are sensitive to the moons activity you have probably noticed some changes in mood or behavior during these cycles. I know I have and I’ve done some research of my own on how to take care of yourself (or loved ones) during the full moon that I’ve found to help quite a bit.
Just so you know the full moon energy lasts for about 5 days - the two days prior to the full moon, the day of the full moon, and the two days following. So you will want to take care during this time span to be gentle with yourself and give yourself some extra attention and grace.
When we talk about moon energies and how they affect us there are a couple of different ways that this happens. The full moon is when the moon is fully visible and illuminates at its fullest. So the moon has an illuminating effect on our subconscious just as it does on the earth. It will bring to the surface many of our subconscious thoughts and can increase the activity of the mind. This reveals itself often in an increase of thinking, possibly worrying and sometimes irrational thought.
The moon also affects the earths gravitational pull. We know that the moon rules the tides and it’s gravitational pull also can affect our physical bodies and minds. When the moon is full it’s gravitational pull is increased and a subtle high pressure belt is formed. This can cause those who are sensitive to experience physical symptoms very much like pms such as headaches, impatience, exhaustion, irritability and body aches. Combined with increased thought patterns we can feel and react erratically, irrationally and unlike ourselves.
But all hope is not lost! There are some natural, energy balancing remedies that help counteract the effects of the full moon and offer relief and comfort to the mind and body that really work. The next time the full moon energy is high give these a try!
Salt
Salt is known as a cleansing and purifying agent and has been used since ancient times in healing rituals. There are different salts that have different attributes but anything that is in its natural state can work to cleanse negative moon energy. Try himalayan salt, sea salt, or even epsom salt in a bath to soothe away stress. Salts balance pH and water levels in the body, promote a cellular hydroelectric energetic balance, and soothe aches, pains and even muscle cramps. Just make sure that you use a natural salt, not one that is processed like table salt. You will be amazed at how soothing salt is to the body and mind!
Fresh Air and Sunshine
It’s only early March as I write this post but even in the dead of winter it is possible to get a few minutes of sunshine and/or fresh air. Sometimes I will open my sunroof a little or roll down my car windows just a crack in the winter to get some fresh air and even that little bit helps regulate my mind and body. If you can, go outside for a walk during the day when the moon is in its full phase. Give yourself the time to step away from everything and let the outside fresh air bring healing to you. The sun has a different energy than the moon so it's important to soak some of that in when the moon is messing with you. It’s best if you leave the cell phone at home and try to be present when you are outside so you get the full effects of the fresh air and sunshine. So often we are multitasking and the only time we spend outside is when we are running in and out of a building to work or shop. Try giving yourself a few minutes to just be outside. I love to even just take 5 minutes and sit on the stoop in the front or back of my house and just be there, soak in the sun and breathe the fresh air. The outside is a gift we don’t allow ourselves to experience often enough!
Aromatherapy
Essential oils have immense energy clearing properties. I use them religiously during the full moon both on my body and by diffusing them in the air. I also particularly like to add them to my salt bath and find the combination of the two to be highly effective physically and mentally. Some of my favorite essential oils are:
Grounding and Relaxing
Rosemary, Lavender, doTERRA Balance, doTERRA Serenity, and Cedarwood
Energizing and Uplifting
Cardamom, Wild Orange, Lemongrass, and Lime
Emotional Healing
Rose, Jasmine, Bergamot, Cilantro, and Cypress
My favorite combo right now is Rosemary and Lavender. I use about 5 drops of Lavender to 3 drops of Rosemary and the combination is heaven! Use your intuition and make your own blends based on your need during the moon cycle and keep your diffuser going throughout the day to help support your emotions.
I really hope that if you have found the moon energies to wreak havoc with your emotional state that you will find relief and comfort in these natural remedies. I have started using them in my home and have found them to be a great support to us. Unsure of moon cycles and when they are? Check out this simple web page to keep an eye on the moon phases.
Be Well!