Full Moon Rituals for Release, Clarity, and Peace

The full moon—the halfway point in a monthly lunar cycle—is regarded as the most energetically charged lunation in astrology. It symbolizes completion, release, and peace with what we want to leave behind. If new moons are about planning and starting something new, the full ones are about gaining clarity through revelations uncovered—and why rituals can be a powerful way to mark this moment.

“When the moon is full, it means she is reflecting to us the most light she will in that particular cycle,” says Amy Lea, human design analyst, astrologer, and spokesperson for Body Graph. “I like to think of light as equating to energy and information, so when the moon is full, we are receiving the most energy and information we will for the month.”

Energetically, the moon rules our inner world, including our emotions, intuition, and desires. The moon’s new and complete phases carry specific energy and discern the cycle of beginnings and completion, respectively. So, the full moon can be a powerful way to look forward. But before we dive into what full moon rituals you can carry out each month, a little refresher on the full moon’s energy:

What is full moon energy in astrology?

In the same way that the full moon shines brightest at this stage, it brings inner circumstances to a head, completing an emotional cycle in progress. That’s why full moons are regarded as the most emotional phase of the moon; energy has culminated throughout the cycle, and things are finally coming to light.

The powerful moonbeams spotlight hidden emotions, making you address things that have been avoided. For that reason, the full moon's energy often feels intense and turbulent as you navigate hard truths. They’re all about tying loose ends and letting go. 

But Lea says there’s a lot more going on. “A lot of people talk about the full moon relating to release, but what it more importantly represents is illumination, insight, and awareness,” says Lea. Full moons are moments when the blinders come off, prompting us to reassess our direction regarding our desires and manifestations.

Plus, depending on the full moon’s aspect to other planets or position in the sky in relation to other planets, this lunation can prompt us to feel at odds emotionally or proactive in making changes in our lives. Consider, too, that the moon may be at ease or uncomfortable in certain signs, which can impact what you’re experiencing.

How to harness the energy of the full moon

During the full moon, emotions can feel intense, tensions rise, and conflict (including inner conflict) is bound to happen. That’s why emotional regulation and spiritual alignment are important during this lunation. Harnessing full moon vibes is all about surrendering to the natural progression of things—like letting go of people or situations that aren’t serving your growth.

It’s important to note that not all full moons are created energetically equally. For example, the zodiac sign in which the full moon is stationed sets the tone for the themes illuminated during its lunation. Say the full moon is in Leo, the sign of entertainment, artistry, and lots (and lots) of drama. The full moon will bring all the emotional theatrics and inspire us to create.

Full moons aren’t just for closing out chapters, though. They’re also about taking action on your goals, leaning on intuition, and looking deep within yourself. 

Lea says each full moon connects back to the previous new moon—which happens approximately six months before the current full moon. “Consider everything you were calling in and manifesting back then and everything you have since learned that has shifted your perception of what you want and how you can best create it,” Lea explains.

Suppose you’re unsure how to embrace the full moon's energy. In that case, Lea says to look at what zodiac sign the full moon is in and where that specific zodiac sign is in your birth chart. “By understanding which signs govern which houses in your chart, you can attune to the themes each new and full moon is activating for you,” Lea says. (FYI, you’ll need to know your birth time to know where your houses are.)

So, if Leo is in your first house (the house of self), the full moon might profoundly affect you, heralding major endings and encouraging you to focus on your personal growth, goals, and independence.

The only caveat is that rituals and manifestation work are not recommended during an eclipse. “During an eclipse, you don’t need to do anything,” says Lea, “it’s more helpful to focus on your well-being, be present in your day-to-day life, and trust that the universe is realigning you in the ways that you need.”

Full moon rituals to try

Create an altar

An altar is a sacred area used for offerings, prayer, or spiritual work—and they aren’t specific to any one religion, meaning you don’t have to subscribe to one. You can simply assign a space in your home to exercise your spiritual practice. “Gather items that feel significant to you, particularly relating to what your desires were six months earlier on the new moon that connects with this full moon,” explains Lea, “and anything that represents the journey you have taken and how you are realigning and pivoting based on the new information you have received in this time.”

Lea adds that it helps to use the elements present on your altar. Consider a small bowl of water with added flower petals, a candle, incense, stones, and maybe even shells.

Moon water ritual

Moon water is (you guessed it!) water energetically charged under the moon. It’s typically done during the new and full moon, but in this case, Lea says it’s an especially powerful time to charge your water. “The light of the full moon is made up of energy and information,” she explains. Taking in moon water means that your cells are absorbing more of the full moon frequency, which can aid in helping you receive insights and illumination that will support you in moving forward over the next six months.”

Deep reflection and release ritual

Since full moons are introspective, Lea explains that reflection is crucial to maximizing the lunation. First, she suggests taking a piece of paper and brain-dumping your reflections on the last six months, focusing on what you wanted back then, what has changed in your life, and what you are ready to release or move away from.  Don’t think too hard; instead, allow your reflections to flow like a stream of consciousness. 

Then, take the paper and fold it concertina-style (like the shape of an accordion) so that it’s easier to burn. Of course, you want to do this specific activity outside with a fireproof bowl, Lea explains. “Set the paper alight, and as you watch it burn, imagine that all of the energy you poured into your writing is being surrendered and released to the universe.” 

What not to do during the full moon

There are many ways to harness La Luna’s energy, but what about things you should avoid doing during the full moon? Below, find out what not to do during the full moon.

Don’t start big projects

Starting projects are more aligned with new moon vibes. That’s because the full moon is all about completion, release, and ending cycles. “The energy of the full moon is more about reflection and realignment, so it’s great for reviewing things and making adjustments, but I would hold off on starting a significant new project until after the next new moon,” says Lea.

Don’t plant seeds for new manifestations

As emotions heighten, it can be difficult to reason. You wouldn’t want to manifest amidst clouded judgment. When sending anything out into the universe, you’re better off reviewing your goals, values, and desires. “Reflect on what you were calling in six months ago and focus on how you need to pivot and realign yourself, as well as what you might need to release to move forward toward your goals,” explains Lea.

Don’t be reactive

Full moons are known to bring drama. Lea says it can stir up erratic behavior but warns not to give into the temptation of emotional reactivity. “You can’t help what you feel, but it’s important to remember that those around you might be feeling a lot and may not understand why,” explains Lea. “Practicing patience and compassion for the big energy and emotions people are moving through will bring you more peace than reacting to everything around you.”

Don’t expect to feel energized

Because full moons are all about action, don’t be surprised if you exhaust your batteries. Who can blame you for needing a break once you’ve tied loose ends, severed ties with people, and finished significant creative projects? “Don’t judge or shame yourself for how you feel—there may be some full moons when you have lots of energy and others when you need to rest and hibernate,” says Lea. “There’s no right or wrong, but forcing yourself to feel something you don’t will only take you off track.”