How the Moon affects you & two rituals to use this special energy

Lisa Meimann
Dec 15, 2024
4 min read

Updated: Mar 27

The Moon's Influence: Full Moon and New Moon Explained

The moon, whether it’s full or new, affects all of us.

Don’t believe it?

Let’s play with this thought:

The moon influences the tides—high and low tide. This means it actively moves water.

Humans are made up of 55-60% water, and for babies, it’s even 70-80%.

So, how could the moon not affect us with such a high water content?

Times Are Changing!

More and more people are becoming mindful of their lifestyles.

Many individuals are born more sensitive to noise, stress, smells, colors, food, and more.

This also means people are becoming more open to the ancient knowledge of the moon that has been part of us for thousands of years.

In history, the full moon has played an important role in many cultures:

The Maya, known for their advanced astronomy, connected the moon to timekeeping and event prediction.They saw the moon as a feminine force tied to water, fertility, and birth.Their lunar calendars, as accurate as their solar ones, helped them understand nature’s cycles and align farming activities accordingly.
In Greek mythology, the moon was personified as the goddess Selene, who rode her silver chariot across the night sky.
Many indigenous cultures, like Native American tribes, linked the full moon to specific seasons and tasks—for instance, the “Hunter’s Moon” in autumn marked the time to gather food for winter.

Here you see the natural Moon Cycle — Moon cycle

The Moon and Sleep

Today, many people independently report sleeping poorly or dreaming vividly during the full or new moon.

Sure, you could call it a "placebo effect," but even babies and toddlers seem affected by moon phases.

I’ve noticed this myself!

Without knowing whether it’s a full or new moon, I’ve had nights of restless sleep or vivid dreams—only to later find out a full or new moon was happening.

Coincidence? I think not!

The Female Cycle

Here’s another example: the female menstrual cycle.

Isn’t it “crazy” that the average cycle length is about 28 days—the same as a lunar cycle?

I don’t believe in coincidences!

Differences Between Full Moon and New Moon

Full Moon

The moon’s visible side is fully illuminated by the sun.
The Earth is positioned between the sun and the moon.
Symbolizes clarity, fullness, and culmination.
Effects: Many people feel energetic or emotional.
Tides: Causes spring tides along with the sun.
Visual: A bright, round disk in the sky.

New Moon

The moon’s visible side is completely in shadow (invisible from Earth).
The moon is positioned between the sun and Earth.
Symbolizes new beginnings, reflection, and introspection.
Effects: A time for calm and preparation.
Tides: Also causes spring tides due to gravitational forces.
Visual: Hardly visible in the night sky.

Making the Most of the Full Moon

The full moon often brings “old things” to the surface.

Unresolved issues with an old job, conflicts with family, or personal struggles with self-confidence can resurface.

The full moon is a great opportunity to let go of these burdens.

You don’t need a big, elaborate ritual for this.

Full Moon Ritual Guide:

Turn off your phone! Better yet, put it on silent.
Grab a piece of paper and a pen.
Light a candle if you like—it adds a reflective atmosphere.
Think about what has been bothering you in recent months.
What do you want to finally let go of?
Write it down in the present tense.
For example, instead of “I want to let go of this,” write: “I let go of this.”
(Some believe this works because the universe doesn’t recognize past or future, but for me, it helps make the letting go feel real.)
Optional: Read through your list one more time or go straight to burning it. Be cautious!

In summer, I love doing this ritual outside.

In winter, I use a candle and a fireproof bowl, baking tray, or pot.

After burning, blow the ashes out of the window in winter or let them return to nature in summer.

That’s it! No fuss, just a meaningful ritual. It’s even great to do with kids.

Important Note:

I don’t do this ritual every full moon!

When I first discovered it, I did it every time, but over time, I’ve learned to listen to my intuition.

If you don’t feel like writing and burning your thoughts one full moon, that’s fine!

Maybe you don’t have anything to let go of, or it needs more time.

No pressure. ;-)

Making the most of the New Moon

The new moon is all about manifesting new things in your life.

It doesn’t matter if you believe the universe fulfills your wishes or if this is just a way to get clear on what you want in life.

The new moon is the perfect time to dream big!

What are your wishes for the near and far future?

Dream big—what do you have to lose?

New Moon Ritual Guide:

Turn off your phone! Better yet, put it on silent.
Grab a piece of paper and a pen.
Light a candle if you like—it adds a reflective atmosphere.
Think about your biggest dreams for the future.This could be anything—material things, relationships, travel goals, etc.
Write them in the present tense, e.g.:
- “I have a camper van.”
- “I have a healthy relationship.”
Be very specific!
That way, you and the universe know exactly what you mean.
Optional: Read through your list one more time or go straight to burning it.
Be cautious!

In summer, I love doing this ritual outside. In winter, I use a candle and a fireproof bowl, baking tray, or pot.