DECEMBER COLD MOON: The Moon For Rest, Reflection & Inner Work

Full Cold Moon reflecting off a surface of water during winter.

In November, the earth begins to wither and decay to prepare for the cold dark winter ahead. We prepared for winter, getting our affairs in order, and we also slowed down to save our reserves for the upcoming holidays. Then in December we feel the rush of the Holiday season kick in. It feels like there is so much to do but so little time! We are called to celebrate and share with others, but we also need time to rest and repair. The last two months have been a whirlwind of energy giving, but now is the time to slow down again. Winter is here and there is a significant shift in energy throughout December.

The December Full Moon is the last Full Moon of the year, and it also represents the last seasonal change. With the temperatures dropping and the occurrence of the Winter Solstice, this Full Moon is tied with the Winter season. The December moon is known as the “Cold Moon,” to reflect the colder temperature changes that occur in December. Another name it is known for is the “Long Night Moon” as the Winter Solstice falls near this Full Moon. The Winter Solstice is the longest night of the year, and the nights near this time are the longest of December. When the December Full Moon falls right before Yule, it is called the “Moon before Yule.” Yule is the pagan predecessor of the Christmas season. It is a festival towards the end of December that celebrates the Winter Solstice and the New Year. Other names of this moon include the Frost Moon, Snow Moon, Winter Moon, Oak Moon, and Wolf Moon. This Full Moon is deeply tied to winter and the long wintry nights that we endure hoping we will see brighter days ahead. 

In December our intuition is heightened. You will gain more clarity about current situations.You might realize that there are things you need to release before the new year begins. It is important to stay open throughout the month and into the new year. This will allow you to attract new opportunities when heading into the new year. This Full Moon will be in the sign of cancer, which will provide us with the mothering energy we might need during these dark days. The Moon rules over the sign of cancer, so when the moon is in the sign of Cancer we are more in tuned with our emotions and self-care. During this full moon ground yourself and reflect on the past year. How much have we transformed? What can we do to take care of ourselves before the new year begins? We are so busy with the Holiday season that we often forget to pause and reflect on the past year. The December Cold Moon is a reminder to slow down, pause and reflect and embrace the changes we will experience as the year ends. 

In December, we felt the rush of the Holiday season ending. The days feel darker and as a result we feel like turning inward. As the year draws closer to an end, don’t worry so much about running out of time but remember that a new cycle awaits with more opportunities. 

Full Moon in Gemini

During the Cold Moon in December, the full moon will be in the sign of Gemini. Gemini is one of the  signs in the Zodiac that rules communication. Gemini is an air sign that is very outgoing and sociable. This sign loves to move and  interact with new people and situations. Gemini is very curious and loves to hear stories and learn from others. This sign is very intelligent as they are on a constant quest to gather information like a sponge. In Gemini’s pursuit to interact with new people and situations, this air sign loves to learn and share information with others. The sign of Gemini is also  associated with twin energy. This energy  taps into the duality we often face when confronted with social and personal needs. The energy of Gemini thrives on new experiences, learning and change but also has an emotional and restless side when left unchecked. 

During a full moon in Gemini, the energy can be chaotic. Full moon energy tends to amplify the energy of signs, which is not always the best if one is not aware. Gemini wants us to learn, grow   and change and this can cause us to feel a bit restless. Since Gemini is a sign that is constantly on the move with social matters, it is difficult to sit down and  focus on one thing. This energy can  cause us to be careless and forget commitments. One might overbook themselves or over-commit to social engagements. This could result in burn out, missed appointments and important tasks or projects left on the back burner. It will be important to take a step back and prioritize what are the most important tasks and social engagements that require your attention. 

During the Full Moon in December, we will need to balance the energy of Sagittarius  (December ) and Gemini  (full moon). Sagittarius  seeks meaning and truth beyond expected boundaries. This sign is also very action oriented,  always on the move and looking ahead. This energy is strong in December as there is so much to do with the holidays and end of year deadlines. On the other hand Gemini seeks truth and meaning by connecting with others, but can become easily distracted from what is really important. Too much socializing can put us in a tough spot when the new year begins. Both this type of energy can cause us to burn ourselves out if we do not try to balance the need to push forward as the year comes to an end with the need to socialize. During this December full moon, focus on Gemini’s communicative abilities to take action on priorities,learn new things and make meaningful connections this holiday season.  

December Cold Moon Activities 

  • Finish any last projects before the new year. 
  • Create a comfortable environment at home that allows you to rest and relax.
  • Dress warm and go outside to spend some time reflecting with the moon.
  • Write out your experiences and feelings about the past year. What challenged you? What did you learn? What have you accomplished?
  • Set intentions for the New Year.

Crystal: Red Jasper

Red Jasper is connected to the root chakra, which is the foundation of our energy system. As a result, it is a great grounding stone that helps keep you balanced. It is also a very protecting and nurturing stone that can help bring you comfort. It can also help reignite health and emotional well-being. Red Jasper is also known as the “Stone of Endurance” as it can help us through stressful and tiring times. When we are going through a period of rebirth and transformation, this stone can help us with our focus, courage and strength. Meditate with a red jasper to help ease stressful situations, help you become more productive or to help balance your energy. 

Need help to set goals or create an action plan?

Use the Moon Cycle to Plan for the Year

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