How To Use The December Full Cold Moon To Let Go Of Stress

Ready or not, the final lunation of 2023 is here. December’s full Cold Moon arrives on Dec. 26 at 7:33 p.m. ET (4:33 p.m. PT) in heart-centered Cancer, triggering an emotional release. This powerful and sensitive lunar moment provides a chance to gather ourselves ahead of the new year. In order to best channel its energy, try a manifestation ritual tailored for the Cold Moon.

Roughly every 29.5 days, the lunar cycle reaches its climax, lighting up the sky with a full moon. In astrology, this symbolizes emotional catharsis and culmination, prompting us to purge the things that are no longer serving our best interests. Since the Dec. 26 full moon rises in compassionate Cancer, it’s the perfect opportunity to make peace with how the past year has gone, particularly since we last braved a Cancer moon in July.

“As a water sign, Cancer is one of the sensitive signs, and it is a sure thing our moods will be up and down now,” says astrologer Narayana Montúfar. “This is a good thing, as Cancer is the only sign ruled by the Moon, providing emotional release.”

It’s not always easy to face your feelings, but during the Dec. 26 full Cold Moon, try one of these exercises to make the most of this cosmic energy.

Take A Walk By The Water

“[One] ritual that feels perfect [for right] now is taking a stroll by the closest river as we let our feelings or worries be absorbed by the water and the healing powers of Earth,” says Ater. This is a good way to stay grounded amid the frenzy of the holidays.

As you move, practice gratitude by giving thanks to the universe. Don’t have access to a body of water? Opt for a candlelit bath instead.

Pull Tarot Cards

Whether you’re at a pivotal crossroads or simply need encouragement, tarot has the potential to steer you in the right direction. Before pulling your card, take time to acknowledge your emotions. Keep an open mind and heart.

“Meditating with the card can bring information from our subconscious to the conscious mind,” Montùfar says. “For example, when observing The Chariot card [which brings clarity], we can ask ourselves: Are we taking action in the pursuit of our dreams? Are we lacking direction?”

When you sincerely consider the questions our cards ask us, you can better serve the manifestations you want to attract in the new year.

Cord-Cutting Ritual

Saturn, the planet of longevity and time, makes a peaceful aspect to the full moon, bringing a swift end to things that are keeping us stagnant. “Since Saturn separates [i.e. it has separate rings around the planet], a cord-cutting ritual seems appropriate now for leaving behind the relationships that dim our light,” says Ater.

The final full moon offers a unique opportunity here. Ater says you’ll need two black candles, a pen, and piece of paper.

“First, write your name in one candle and the name of the other person in the other candle. Then, [imagine] uniting the two candles with the cord,” she says. Visualize yourself attaching this cord to what you’d like to let go of. “Next, light the candles while spending a good amount of time setting the intention for Saturn and the Moon to help you remove someone from your life.” Finally, imagine yourself cutting the cord once and for all.

Source:

Narayana Montùfar, astrologer and author of Moon Signs: Unlock Your Inner Luminary Power