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Ideas for a New Moon Celebration

The New Moon phase represents the birth of all the lunar cycles, and has been celebrated in many traditions throughout history.   It symbolizes replenishment and the fresh seeds of a new phase of life.

In the Old Testament and in Hebrew traditions, the new moon is considered a holy time of spiritual renewal at the head of the month.  “Rosh Chodesh” is the Hebrew word for New Moon and it means “beginning, head, renewal” , which makes sense as the lunar calendar is what marked the beginning of a new month. Rosh Chodesh was also considered a prime time for receiving prophetic messages directly from the Divine.

Many Pagan traditions and Wicca also acknowledge the importance of the New Moon with assorted rituals.

Anyone can take this time to focus on creative new ideas or on renewing your commitment to a previous endeavor.  Here are a few great ways to celebrate the next new moon.

Spend a part of the day brainstorming a new idea, something you really want to manifest.  It can be a personal goal, or if you want family members to participate, make it a group effort where everyone discusses ideas around a common, shared goal.

Draw a circle in the center of a piece of paper or poster board (representing the new cycle) and place your idea in the center.  From there, brainstorm different ideas for how to make your dream a reality and write them down on branches extending out from your circle.  This is called a “mind map” and is a very fun activity and effective tool.  After your session is over, you can take the information from it,  prioritize tasks and make more concrete plans.

You can use any positive new goal for this activity.  If you want to improve your health, start a new business or even plan a vacation, it can be modified to suit your tastes.  While doing your mind map, place a piece of Moonstone or Labradorite and a black candle nearby.  Both symbolize the new moon and enhance that renewal energy that you’re trying to capture.

Another great way to celebrate the new moon is by mindfully creating something new. While doing so, take time to honor the flow of cycles in life. Embrace renewal and the new opportunities brought by change.  If you are artistic, or even if you aren’t, sit and create something.

Look up one of those millions of projects you’ve pinned on Pinterest and give it a whirl.  You will be honoring the new moon energy while creating something new and unique.  The new moon is actually the most auspicious time for trying new recipes or teaching yourself a new skill.  Take advantage of it and have fun.  If you’re so inclined, make it a “new moon” party with a gathering of friends and tackle a project together.

However you choose to honor the new moon, whether it’s with a more official ritual, or by simply embracing the energy of it; let this phase inspire and encourage new beginnings and fresh starts in your life.