First posted in autumn 2019:

The harvest moon is one of my favorite times. I love the fall - everything about it! The changing foliage, the cooler temperatures, sweater weather!And I love the harvest holidays, culminating with Samhain!

One of my favorite rituals for the full moon is particularly appropriate for an Autumnal full moon because it deals with 'release'.The various moon phases are particularly good for certain types of magic:

  • Waxing moons are wonderful for attraction, to bring things in, to grow, to INCREASE
  • The full moon is a celebration of energy - think EXPANSIVE, psychic energy, healing
  • The waning moon is a time for letting go, this is a time of RELEASE, diminishing
  • The new moon is a wonderful time for magic all about NEW BEGINNINGS and STARTING OVER

So while tonight is about expansive energy, and is a wonderful time for all magic associated with expansion, the next few days are the perfect time to start a different type of ritual, for RELEASE.Release can apply to many things. Sometimes heartache and sadness are what you need to release. Other times anger is what you need to let go of. We all have something that is no longer serving us, that we would benefit from releasing.

During your full moon tonight, take advantage of the strength of psychic abilities and intuition to identify an area of your life where you need release. Then, over the next few days, try this:

  • Using a gray candle (or any color you like), carve the thing you wish to release into the candle. A symbol or something that represents it is fine.
  • Next, write it out on paper. Visualize what you want to let go of, and picture how nice it will be when that thing is no longer in your life.
  • Sign the paper. Some people like to sign multiple times. I generally just sign it once, but sign it 'deliberately'. Focus on what you are doing.
  • If you like to anoint candles, anoint with an oil for release. Try geranium, myrrh, anise...there are loads that work well. Find one that resonates with you.
  • Light the candle.
  • If you are in a space outdoors, or have a fire place, light the paper and burn it in a fire safe bowl. If not, fold it, and save it for later.
  • Let the candle burn, visualizing how very much you want to release this aspect of your life. Picture yourself letting it go. 
  • Allow the candle to burn out completely. If you must extinguish it, use a snuffer or a spoon, do not blow it out.
  • When the candle is done, if you still have the paper, take it outside and bury it. If you have ashes, place them in a little bag and carry them in a mojo if you like. That can be very powerful.

I also use the oil I use to anoint the candle each night, as the moon wanes. I put a drop on my wrist, smell the scent, and focus on my intent. It helps me keep the magic moving.Whatever you do tonight, I hope it is a blessed and joyful celebration for everyone!

Bright blessings,

Alison