The Full Moon Effect, aka The Lunar Effect
For centuries, the moon has been one of the cosmic bodies said to change the characteristics of a person. Its ability to transform one from within comes from a long line of belief that it has the power to change a person’s inner molecular structure even if just for a moment. Bards sang tales about how people changed in mood, physique, and even in personality whenever the moon was full. The lunar effect even worked it’s way into the English language providing the etymological origin for the word lunacy.
Neurotic behavior was common and there are even many stories that tell of those who change into savage wolves on a full moon’s night. It is said that once the full moon passes the person has minimal or no recollection of any changes. The biggest question is whether there is any correlation with full moons and behavior change or people acting strangely. And for the most part, it seems that answer is yes, but it depends on many things which include the date, time, year, location, zodiac sign, emotional state, and one’s spiritual maturity.
The Effects Of Full Moon on Emotions
In general, the moon is connected to our emotional selves. Many of the full moon effects on human behavior and emotions are hidden deep within our subconscious. So when the moon is full, it emits energy that greatly affects us all personally as well as collectively.
Each week that passes, the moon transits through each zodiac house clearing its path from whatever debris is in its way. The elements it clears and/or reboots are actually energy vessels that are connected to our soul. The full moon ruffles this bridge that connects us within, causing changes.
Some of these adjustments are subtle while others are drastic, and that is why you see many acting out of character. For the most part, though it is not out of character, it is actually their true selves presenting to the world. To themselves or peers this may appear to be out of the norm because the person does not know how to manage this abrupt inner change. And since the jolt of energy is potent many are not spiritually and/or emotionally equipped to handle it.
Connecting With the Full Moon
You can build a relationship with the full moon and keep track of how it affects you personally. Dedicate time for meditation, inner journeys, and connect with your body’s structural components.
For at least three consecutive months see what date the full moon falls on and if possible (but not necessary) what zodiac sign it is in. If you find out what zodiac sign it’s transiting through, then look at some of the characteristics of that sign to help with your notes. Have a journal handy and write down the changes you feel or what others may see in your temperament for the three days prior and the three days after the full moon.
Although the full moon has a date on the calendar, it is said that its energy lingers within the week it is in transit. Connect with this energy for your unique personal experience. Let the full moon set clarity on your path and help you shed any emotional baggage.
This month of July blesses us with not one but two full moons. This rare occasion literally only happens once every two or three years, and it’s always packed with potent vibrations for all.
“When two full moons occur in a calendar month it is often referred to as a blue moon and many use the phrase, ‘once in a blue moon’ because it’s associated with something that is rare.”
But the blue moon is a term that is fairly new; an older explanation is that it is either a third or fourth full moon that happens in a season. Since we are still in the summer season it would be our third full moon thus far.
Learn More About Astrology
Common Traits for Full Moons for Each Zodiac Sign
FULL MOONS FOR ARIES
For Aries, it would be all about mastering time. You love to have things in order so when there is a full moon this can be a very productive time. Looking your best and showing others you are capable of being a responsible asset to society is essential. During this time you can also experience many enlightened conversations. It would also be wise to watch income until after the full moon.
FULL MOONS FOR TAURUS
Full moons bring beauty for Taurus. You beautify your home as well as make changes in image. Creativity is heightened especially in the kitchen. Cooking, baking, and creating, in general, are important during this time. This is also a great time for budgeting and seeing how much you can save for the upcoming months. Communication can be troublesome but with your positive spirits, you will overcome.
FULL MOONS FOR GEMINI
The energy in full moons brings the talkative character out of Gemini. Chatting via email or phone calls from those you know from all over makes this air sign quite happy. Finances can be stale, but this quickly turns around once the full moon is over. During this time revelations are also possible. It is beneficial for Geminis to write down ideas and talk about them with investors.
FULL MOONS FOR CANCER
For Cancers, full moons can be extreme in the sense that you never know what you will get out of them. It is nostalgia and hopes mixed all into one. Laugh and cry about the past, but don’t let it consume you. Communicate with your partner(s) and family about your needs. Full moons also bring rejuvenation, so make sure to tend to your spiritual side. Be spontaneous with others.
FULL MOONS FOR LEO
The energy of full moons brings detail for Leos. It is important to pay attention to your thoughts, actions, paperwork, and anything having to do with long-term commitments. Projects can pick up, and using your networking skills will show to bring abundance. Full moons also stimulate the need for hydration. Health comes to center stage so that you can tend to anything and everything.
FULL MOONS FOR VIRGO
The full moon brings travel for Virgo. This can be either physical or spiritual. Personal journeys are important for this Earth sign because it helps you with grounding. This phase also ignites expression. Singing, writing, and dancing soothe the soul and also attracts more people to your social circle. Family is also important around this time, and it would benefit to show them you love them.
FULL MOONS FOR LIBRA
For Libras, full moons emphasize the need for love. Your affectionate side shows and many are fortunate to experience this side of you. Full moons also bring liberation, but only if you are a positive Libra. It would be beneficial to keep a list of the pros and cons of different things in your life. Once the full moon is over you will have the clarity you need to answer many of your own questions.
FULL MOONS FOR SCORPIO
The energy of full moons creates laughter for Scorpios. At first, they can take things personally but then realize that life is too short to waste it on drama. Speak your mind, but don’t let others attack your tender heart. This time also brings flames of passion. Bring those you love close to you, share moments of bliss, and create long-lasting memories. In finances double-check invoices.
FULL MOONS FOR SAGITTARIUS
Full moons bring stimulation to your intellectual side, Sagittarius. Your mind craves conversations and knowledge about everything. Connect with those who are outside of your normal social circle to reap the most benefits of this energy. The full moon also brings togetherness. Move all relationships in the right direction with your compassionate heart.
FULL MOONS FOR CAPRICORN
For Capricorn’s full moon, energy can bring some aggravation but only because you will have less tolerance for mistakes. This madness quickly turns around, though, when you realize that you are handling others without a care. Your natural side takes over and turns your perspective into kindheartedness. Many reach out to seek your companionship. You are loved by many and they show it.
FULL MOONS FOR AQUARIUS
The energy of full moons stimulates your need for balance. Your senses will tell you exactly what it is you need to set things right on your path; it’s just a matter of listening to yourself, Aquarius. This energy also brings expansion. Your mind activates so that you can receive and/or bury futuristic ideas. Review your life with a compassionate eye and make changes where necessary.
FULL MOONS FOR PISCES
Full moons bring options for Pisces. The phrase “when one door closes the other opens” deems true, and this energy blasts opportunity for change. Some will reap its rewards while others will float in a bubble-like dream of emotions. This dream-like state can bring revelation. It is important to clearly communicate your needs to others. If others don’t listen verbally, then look for alternative ways to say what you need to say.
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Ancient Traditions To Help You Celebrate Summer Solstice
The summer solstice marks the longest day of the year, during which the axial tilt of the Earth puts the western hemisphere closest to the Sun. For time immemorial, it has been a day of celebration for many cultures across the world. But if you’re unsure of how to celebrate the summer solstice of 2019, here are some of the ancient rituals and celebrations practiced by our ancestors on the midsummer’s night.
Summer Solstice Meaning
The word solstice comes from the Latin words “sol,” meaning sun, and “stitium” or “sistere,” meaning still or stopped. In ancient times, our ancestors likely used this day as a marker to decide when to plant crops, noticing that the sun switched from a southward to northward trajectory in the sky.
But more importantly, the solstice was a time of celebration and a break from the norm. Many cultures believed that magic took place on the night of the summer solstice, with fairies showing themselves to humans, while evil spirits were dispelled from their lives.
Ancient Festivities on the Summer Solstice
In ancient Greece, the summer solstice marked the start of a new year and the month-long countdown to the Olympics. The Greeks also observed the festival of Kronia, during which they worshipped Cronus, the god of agriculture. At this time slaves were given equal rights to their owners, who allowed them to participate in games and festivities, sometimes even reversing roles and serving them – it was undoubtedly a welcomed holiday.
In ancient Egypt, the summer solstice represented the coming of the brightest star, Sirius. Not long after, the Nile would begin to flood its banks, marking a season of abundance from the land. The Egyptians believed Sirius was responsible for the floods and considered it the start of a new year.
The ancient Romans celebrated the festival of Vestalia, in honor of the goddess of the hearth. Married women brought offerings to the temple of Vesta, hoping the goddess would bestow blessings upon their families. Vesta was the protector of married women and virginity, and was exclusively a goddess for women.
In addition to the offerings made in Vesta’s temple, women would bake a sacred cake, which followed a strict recipe. Water from a sacred spring would be used, and prevented from coming into contact with the Earth, as it was carried in blessed jugs.
