Harness the Energy of the Harvest Moon with These Yogi-Approved Rituals
As summer comes to a close, we’re about to enter a state of transition — a time when we look back on the past season and reflect on our accomplishments, goals, and intentions. The perfect time to do this is during the Harvest Moon, the full moon that occurs closest to the autumnal equinox (the first day of fall).
WHAT DOES THE HARVEST MOON SYMBOLIZE?
The Harvest Moon, as its name suggests, historically helped mark the end of the summer growing season for farmers and served as a reminder to harvest their crops. The bright illumination of the moon earlier in the day also gave them more time to harvest.
Harvest Moons can serve as a reminder to “harvest the crops” in our own life, or reflect on our progress, let go of the unnecessary, and set new goals for the upcoming season. Just like in Mother Nature, some seasons are abundant, and others are a little rough. But through our experiences and mistakes, we learn more about ourselves and can bounce back feeling stronger, wiser, and ready to take on new goals.
HARVEST MOON RITUALS
1. Clean your space
Why wait for spring to do a deep clean? This weekend, dive into the grime with your trusty scrubber and eco-friendly cleaner of choice. Scour every surface and leave no trace of the summer season. (We know you love summer, but trust us — it’s better this way.)
2. Work through your wardrobe
Now’s the perfect time to “Kondo” your dresser drawers and shift your closet for the fall season. Let go of any items you no longer see yourself wearing, and store away your warm-weather clothes if the temperature permits.
3. Update your health and beauty cabinet
You might consider adapting your morning and evening routine to fit with the changing temps. Does your skin require a heavier moisturizer? Have you used this bottle of who-knows-what in the past month? Get rid of anything you no longer use and make sure you’re giving your body what it needs.
4. Create an autumn altar in your yoga space
Add some cozy hygge vibes to your practice space with leafy plants and fall foliage, knit blankets, socks for savasana, your favorite warm candle, and maybe even photos of your loved ones to fill your heart with abundance.
5. Have a reflection session
Put in pen what you want to manifest. Take out your personal notebook or journal and write down:
Accomplishments from the past season/goals achieved
Learnings from your mistakes
Fall intentions and goals
The steps you’ll take to achieve your goals
6. Track your dreams
With the lunar energy buzzing, you’re sure to have some interesting dreams. Keep your notebook handy and write your dreams down first thing after waking up — then have fun as you ponder the meaning.
7. Make time to meditate
Attract abundance in your life by focusing on gratitude. This meditation from Caley Alyssa will help you invite contentment into your day.
8. Soak in a ritual moon bath
Spend time in the glow of the moonlight to cleanse and recharge your mind, body, and spirit. Too cold outside? Draw a warm nighttime bath with your favorite music, oils, and candle to release the stress of the season.
9. Move, move, move
This is key to releasing that stagnant summer energy. Whatever your choice of movement — dance, fitness, yoga, etc. — make a commitment to do it regularly. We recommend our Harvest Moon Flows playlist on Alo Moves.