Falling Leaves Moon

Photo credit: dheej18

The Ojibew call tonight’s full moon Binaakwii-giizis “Falling Leaves Moon”, and because the full moon acts as a magnifier of what lies beneath it, the current autumn season is what is being brought to our attention. The falling leaves highlighted by the moon are a reminder that it is necessary at this time to begin to shed and release the old. Under this moon it is a good time to consider letting go of old thoughts, patterns and beliefs that are no longer benefiting you. As well, consider clearing out a drawer or two. If you have been accumulating things (mental or physical) that you’ve been holding on to long after they are of any use, it is time to clear them out to bring in something new. After all, this is also the harvest moon and season. How can we store supplies for the winter if our physical or mental storage spaces are full of junk we don’t need?

​Cleansing and clearing is time of release. Therefore, it is necessary to remain grounded in all of it especially when dealing with emotions. Even after all of your leaves have fallen to the earth, ensure that your roots remain strong and firmly planted in the ground. You may feel a slow impending death creeping up on you, but if you maintain self-care practices you can rest assured that your leaves will once again sprout and flowers will blossom. Number one, it is important to steady your mind in a way that will promote ease and flow. Here are some tips for autumn mental self-care.

• Read and/or write poetry
• Create drawings or paintings that reflect your emotions or the season
• Meditation: Visualize yourself as a strong, beautiful tree unphased by the changing cycles of the season. See yourself firmly rooted in the earth while shedding away the leaves of old thoughts, patterns and beliefs – assured that when the time is right, new and improved thoughts and patterns will take their place.

As the air begins to cool and dry, it is also important to have physical self-care practices:

• Shaking and cupping: This removes stagnation from the body.
• Exfoliation: Aides in shedding and removing old, dry skin cells.
• Warm Epsom salt foot or body soak: Removes toxins while replenishing the body with Magnesium for relaxation.

Have fun with this moon and season – go light about it. Find more reasons to enjoy and relax. Get outside and appreciate the gorgeous autumn colours. After all, it’s only one time of year that we can bask in the beauty of red, yellow and green leaved trees all at once!