Full Moon | Hunter's Moon
October 17th and 18th
Full Moon in Aries
Today we welcome the Full Moon in Aries, also known as the Hunter's Moon. This full moon follows last months Harvest Moon. The naming of both the Harvest Moon and the Hunter's Moon is linked to the autumn equinox.
Why is it called the Hunter's Moon?
This specific full Moon is often called the full Hunter’s Moon. It earned this name as it signalled hunters to begin their preparations for the cold winter ahead. During this period, game animals were also gaining weight to prepare for the winter months. Furthermore, after fields had been cleared following the Harvest Moon, hunters found it easier to spot deer and other creatures searching for leftover scraps. Additionally, foxes and wolves would emerge to hunt these animals. The term “Hunter’s Moon” was first recorded in the Oxford English Dictionary in 1710. Some sources also refer to the Hunter’s Moon as the Sanguine or Blood Moon, possibly due to the blood associated with hunting or the hues of the changing autumn leaves.
Self-care and the Hunter's Moon?
The Hunter's Moon is the first full moon after the autumn equinox and it falls closely to the festival of Samhain (October 31st) calling us to take time to reflect on the last six months. If you set goal or intentions at the spring equinox or at the start of the traditional year, then this is the time to review them. Make time to reflect on where you are right now in relation to your goals. Get honest with your journey over the last six months and if needs be, see what has been holding you back...
- What self sabotaging habits do you need to deal with?
- Where do you have self doubt? Does this hold you back and how can you deal with it?
- What goals need to be celebrated? What lessons did you learn from achieving these goals?
Use the bright light of the Hunter's Moon to illuminate your journey, use it to let go of what no longer serves you as well as use it highlight your skills and gifts, don't be afraid of sharing them with the world. Embrace the hunter in you... get clear about what you want to achieve between now and Yule, track the steps needed to get to where you want to be.
Our Samhain Candle is the perfect companion for reflection at this point, purchase yours here.