It's the last full moon before the winter solstice.
The Moon has long been held in reverence by ancient people. Lunar cycles were used as guides for planting and harvesting, celebrations and fertility. In the pagan community it helps guide intentions setting, spell casting and gatherings.
New moons and waxing moons (when the moon grows bigger) are used to grow your fortune, relationships, happiness and health.
Full moons are associated with heighten energy, emotions and power, while waning moons (growing smaller) are thought to aid in lessening your burden, be that weight, anxiety, bad relationships or debt.
The December full moon is known as the Cold Moon, Big Winter Moon or Long Night's Moon. It is a time to celebrate Yule or the Winter Solstice and the return of longer days. Spend time with family and friends and celebrate the beginning of winter.
The winter solstice is the shortest period of sunlight of any day in the year. It's the winter solstice, in fact, that makes the Cold Moon the longest full moon of the year, earning it the name Long Night Moon.
The spiritual meaning of December’s Cold Full Moon is a powerful time for reflection and magic, as well as a lovely time for meditation. To get you started, here are some spiritual correspondences and intentions!
Cold Moon Spiritual Meaning and Intentions
• Reflection
• Development
• Change • Peace
• Growth • Reawakening
• Shadow work
Colours
• White
• Black
• Silver
• Evergreen
Ritual Ideas
Here are a few Cold moon rituals, intentions, and magical ideas to help you celebrate December’s full Moon.
Forgiveness Ritual
Part of releasing any lingering negative energy from this year is practicing forgiveness. This can be difficult if you’ve not been given an apology. However, it’s essential to your emotional well-being to find a way to move on from this pain. This anger can weigh you down and fill you with resentment. Life is too short to spend your days filled with that bitterness.
Outdoor Altar
Gather seasonal items outside or at your local grocery store to create an outdoor altar. You can make it as simple or elaborate as you like. Add bits and bobs symbolic or meaningful to you or a treat for the birds. The choice is up to you, and an excellent practice beneath the light of December’s Full Cold Moon! Don’t forget to create some Moon Water while you’re at it!
Here are a few ideas to get you started:
• Create a Winter Solstice spiral
• Evergreen Branch
• Dried citrus • Pinecones
• Cinnamon sticks
• Dried flowers
• Herbs • Crystals
• Candles (please use safely)