Rituals For The Full Worm Moon (March 7th, 2023)

Under the luminous light of March's full moon lies an opportunity to reconnect with the spiritual forces of nature. Native Americans observed this time of year as a time for preparation and fertility, naming it the "Full Worm Moon" in reference to the Earthworms appearing on warm Spring soil. On this day, take some intentional moments out of your day to reconnect with natural energy and embody awe-inspiring aspects that are all around us. From crafting rituals that speak directly to you, setting intentions based on personal needs, or incorporating herbs, there’s something special about tapping into our capacity to intimately communicate with nature through symbolism. The Full Worm Moon invites us to explore the depths within ourselves - so let’s answer its call!

Why Full Moon Rituals?

People practice rituals on a full moon for many reasons, and it is important to educate yourself and be mindful and respectful of the cultures which some rituals might come from as the full moon offers symbolic significance throughout many faiths and cultures around the world. From practicing yoga to sending out positive affirmations or wishes, people often embrace their spirituality under the power of a full moon's lunar energy. Meditating on the special new beginnings that come with each monthly cycle can be an incredibly calming way to welcome those changes with positivity - making it easy to understand why people are so drawn to these certain evenings every month. 

The Spiritual Meaning of the Full Worm Moon

Each month is gifted with a full moon to honor the ever-changing cycles of nature. March’s full moon, in particular, is known as the Full Worm Moon. This unique moon marks the end of Winter and the beginning of Spring; the changing season brings about a stirring in our soul – an invitation to let go of winter and cultivate growth within. Native Americans named this full moon to reflect how the warming temperatures signal earthworms and other creatures from below ground to start surfacing. Many people consider this transitional period an opportunity for deep cleansing rituals and honoring their spiritual path as they welcome new beginnings. Exploring herbs connected to the moon's energy (like Mugwort) can help expand one’s spiritual connection as well. When we pause to align with nature's rhythms and connect deeply with our spiritual self, we can open ourselves up to potentiality and growth. Let us remember that change is always here with the coming of each new full moon.

Herbs to Reach For this Full Moon

When the full worm moon arrives, many of us seek to bring our spiritual work into harmony with the energy that so dearly honors the earth. Certain herbs open the opportunity to do just this. Rosemary, mugwort, mint, and lavender have long been associated with spiritual transformations and reaching a deeper connection with spirit during the full moon. They are known for fostering an atmosphere of calmness, unlocking intuition, and deepening inner reflection. Working with them on this night allows us to honor the ancestral wisdom of honoring the cycles of nature. These herbs can be burned as incense, infused in tea, or even anointing oils for self-reflection, healing, and connecting with our inner guidance during the full stage of the moon’s cycle.

Other herbs that come to mind during this period when we are coming out of hibernation and the heavier eating habits from the winter months include lymphatics and alteratives.

Lymphatics are herbs that have an infinity for the lymphatic system, which is our body’s waste system, and alteratives are herbs that restore the natural balance and function of the body. After months of heavy foods and living a little slower, it's a good time to ensure that the lymph is flowing and that our body is ready for its own form of Spring cleaning. Herbs like red clover and calendula would be good to include on this night and as Spring awakens, and alterative herbs like nettle, burdock, and dandelion leaf will come in handy to support detoxification and cleansing during this time of the year. 

(You can find spearmint, calendula, nettle, red clover and dandelion leaf in our Nourishmint Tea Blend, and calendula in our lymphatic tea blend, Golden Hour Tea!) 

Mindfulness and connection

During the full worm moon, we have a special chance to be mindful and tap into its spiritual power. We can reflect on the reason why Native Americans so aptly named it the Full Worm Moon; Spring is a time of new life and transformation, and like the wiggling of worms, we too can use this time to come out of our winter slumbers for personal renewal and growth. As we do this, it is also important that we find gratitude in our blessings and practice mindfulness during this magical season. Let us bring in the medicinal gifts from Mother Nature’s herbs, set intentions for things to manifest with our rituals, and hold trust that these will manifest beneath this luminous full moon’s energy. The sacredness of this moment requires us to be still and appreciate our divine connection to all of life - a connection that is ever-renewing with every cycle of the moon.

Now for all of you who are feeling creative and connected, we would love to hear from you- what are your favorite full moon rituals?