On August 30, 2023, a rare celestial event is set to grace our skies—a rare blue supermoon. This extraordinary event promises a spectacle that captivates both astronomers and believers in new age philosophies. Ahead of this rare celestial event, let’s explore the world of lunar influence, exploring the impact of lunar phases on ancient civilisations and the potential modern humans have to reconnect with this celestial wisdom.
Understanding the Blue Supermoon
A blue supermoon is an alignment of several lunar factors that create a unique and captivating event. When two full moons occur within a single calendar month, the second is referred to as a “blue moon.” Coupled with this, when the moon is at its closest point to Earth in its elliptical orbit, it is termed a “supermoon.” A Supermoon can appear up to 14% larger and 30% brighter in the night’s sky. Many believe that this rare event presents an opportunity to harness energies and set intentions when the moon’s unique alignment enhances their impact.
Ancient Goddesses of the Moon
Regarded as a symbol of nurturing energy and mystical power, the moon played a central role in various ancient religions. This feminine connection with the moon is a common thread across time and geography, offering a glimpse into the sacred relationship between women, the moon, and the cycles of life.
In Greek mythology, Selene was the goddess of the moon, often depicted driving her moon-chariot across the night sky. The Roman counterpart of Selene, Luna was believed to watch over women and children during the night. In Mayan culture, Ix Chel was the moon goddess associated with healing and childbirth. She symbolised the flow of life’s cycles, from birth to death. Similarly Chang’e, a central figure in Chinese mythology was said to reside on the moon.. She represented themes of love, sacrifice, and the nature of human emotions.
Astrology’s Feminine Connection to the Moon
Within astrology, the moon is closely linked to feminine energy, emotions, and maternal instincts. It plays a vital role in the birth chart, revealing our innermost feelings and nurturing tendencies.
The Impact of the Lunar Phases on our Ancestors
Ancient civilisations were acutely attuned to the lunar phases and their significance. Across cultures the moon’s journey through waxing and waning symbolised cycles of birth, growth, death and rebirth—a reflection of life itself. Each lunar phase held its own meaning:
- New Moon: A time of new beginnings and setting intentions.
- Waxing Moon: A time of growth, expansion, and action.
- Full Moon: A culmination of energy, illumination, and heightened emotions.
- Waning Moon: A time for release, reflection, and letting go.
Ancient Cultures’ Lunar Wisdom
Throughout history, the lunar cycle governed the lives of ancient cultures. From marking planting and harvesting times in agriculture to guiding rituals and ceremonies, the moon was an integral part of their existence. Moonlight illuminated the night skies for early humans, impacting their sleep patterns and activities during the night. In addition to this the celestial movements and the zodiac held profound importance, influencing their spiritual beliefs and daily lives.
The Moon’s Impact on Human Rhythms
Ancient people lived in harmony with the moon, in sync with its rhythms. Jane Hardwicke Collings suggests that women’s menstrual cycles were once aligned with the lunar phases. Women would ovulate during the full moon and bleed during the dark moon, with ovulation sometimes occurring twice in one month when the lunar phase matched their birth phase. Some indigenous tribes such as the Lakota Sioux and Hopi Tribe of North America and The Dogon people of Mali reportedly observe similar patterns. According to Collings, women who begin to observe and connect with the lunar cycle in modern society can also see a change in their menstrual cycle in line with the lunar phases.
The Moon’s Influence on Modern Life
Modern science recognises the moon’s influence on tidal waves, but there’s an array of other effects that the moon is believed to have on humans, plants, and animals. The term “lunatic” is a well known example of historical beliefs in the moon’s role in mental health. Numerous studies as well as widespread anecdotal reports from mental health professionals have made the connection between the lunar cycle and mental health, particularly related to the effect of the full moon.
Reconnecting with Lunar Wisdom
The moon’s influence extends beyond mental health; studies have also explored its impact on fertility, birth rates, sleep patterns, epilepsy, animal behavior, and agriculture. As more research into lunar influence is conducted, we may rediscover the ancient wisdom that recognised the moon’s importance in the lives of humans. By aligning ourselves with lunar cycles and understanding their effects, we have the potential to lead happier, more fulfilled lives in tune with the rhythms of the cosmos.
In a world that’s often detached from the natural world, the moon is a strong visual reminder of our interconnectedness with the universe. So, if you are reading this before the blue super moon on 30th August 2023 then take a moment to gaze at this spectacular celestial event and contemplate the timeless wisdom that has guided humanity across the ages.
