The Snow Moon is always the second Full Moon of the year, usually rising each February. On a clear night, its pristine, luminous glow is a stunning sight (whether it illuminates a snowy landscape, or not!)
Spiritually, the Snow Moon calls our attention to the energies of purity, introspection, transformation and rebirth.
The name “Snow Moon” originates from certain Native American tribes who named each Full Moon to reflect the natural cycles and phenomena of the season. For February, the heavy snowfall that often blankets the ground, particularly in the Pacific Northwest, inspired this evocative name.
Wednesday, February 12, 2024, at 13:53 UTC / 05:53 PT, and astrologically it rises at 24º of Leo
On this magical day, Old Grandmother Moon invites us to pause, immerse ourselves in her serene energy, and embrace the quiet, transformative wisdom of the deep feminine.
The power of ritual under the full snow moon
The Snow Moon presents a unique opportunity to deepen your connection to clarity, purity, and introspection – and ultimately to use these gifts for your own transformation – as you navigate the stillness of winter.
The full Snow Moon’s energy tends to be serene and quiet in the darkness of midwinter, mirroring the tranquil yet powerful essence of snow – cleansing, renewing, and quietly profound.
Engaging in ritual during this time is a powerful way to find that inner stillness, and get really clear on your intentions for the months ahead as we enter into the Spring season.
Ritual under the Snow Moon is more than symbolic – it can profoundly shape the year to come. This Moon offers an opportunity to release the burdens of the past, invite in fresh, transformative energy, and focus on what truly matters.
So let’s explore a few different rituals you could perform this February. Don’t feel the need to do them all! Choose one that resonates with you, and have a go…
1. Snow whisper release ritual
Channel the serene energy of the Snow Moon by stepping outside under its glow and releasing your burdens through gentle sound.
Stand tall, take a deep breath, and vocalize – a whisper, a chant, or a gentle hum. Start small and quiet, but ensure your sound is coming from the depths – your belly or womb.
With that sound, intentionally let go of fears, doubts, or anything else holding you back. You don’t have to know what you are releasing… in fact, put your thoughts to one side and let your body take the lead.
Be mindful – this ritual can be deeply moving if you aren’t accustomed to vocalizing your release, so take it slowly.
Continue until you feel a sense of completion.
This profoundly powerful act taps into the quiet strength of the Snow Moon, clearing the way for fresh energy, clarity, and serenity.
2. Circle of reflection ritual
You may want to stay huddled up indoors, but remember that full Moons are great times to gather! Get together with a small group of friends or loved ones to create a sacred circle of community.
Take turns to share your reflections from the moon cycle (or season) so far, and intentions you have for Spring. Have each person offer words of support, encouragement, and wisdom.
Light a candle for each participant as a symbol of the shared strength and unity within the group.
3. Crystal clarity meditation
Choose stones associated with clarity and transformation, such as:
- Clear Quartz
- Amethyst
- Moonstone
- Selenite
- Labradorite
- Blue Lace Agate
- Aquamarine
- Snowflake Obsidian
Hold your crystal in an open palm, and meditate with it under the Full Moon. Focus on the serene, transformative energy of the Snow Moon and invite it to illuminate your inner clarity and wisdom.
Keep the crystal on your altar for the rest of the moon cycle.
4. Snow moon vision board
Harness the transformative energy of the Snow Moon to create a vision board for the year ahead.
I can’t emphasize enough the power of vision boarding with full Moon energy! Vision boards work… sometimes unbelievably fast.
Under the luminous glow of the full Snow Moon, arrange images, words, and symbols that represent your goals and aspirations, infusing them with this potent lunar energy for powerful manifestation.
5. Moon journaling ritual
Take time to reflect on the past lunar cycle.
Explore areas of your life where you need clarity and truth. What are your challenges, and barriers to greater understanding? How can you move forward in your life with greater integrity?
If you find it easier to write using journal prompts, try these:
- What areas of my life feel unclear or confusing right now? How can I invite more clarity into these areas?
- What truths about myself have I been avoiding or denying? How can I embrace these truths with compassion and understanding?
- Reflect on a recent challenge or conflict. What new understandings or insights have I gained from this experience?
- What untapped potential do I sense within myself? How can I begin to nurture and develop this potential?
- How can I declutter my mind and environment to create more space for clear thinking and decision-making?
- In what ways can I be more honest and authentic in my relationships and interactions with others?
- What lessons have I learned from my past experiences that can guide me moving forward?
- What dreams or goals have I been hesitant to pursue? What steps can I take to move closer to these aspirations?
- How can I better align my actions with my true values and desires?
- What inner truths have I discovered during this lunar cycle? How can I integrate these truths into my daily life?
6. Snow Moon cleansing ritual
Harness the purifying energy of the Snow Moon to cleanse your space and spirit.
- Smoke cleanse: Use a cleansing herb (avoid sage and palo santo unless it is sustainable sources and native to you) to energetically cleanse your home, paying special attention to corners and doorways where stagnant energy can accumulate.
- Salt water: Create a saltwater solution with sea salt and Snow Moon water (or regular water if you haven’t made moon water). Use it to wipe down surfaces, windowsills, and doorframes to purify and protect your space.
Sound: Use a bell, singing bowl, or chimes to create sound vibrations that break up and disperse any lingering negative energy. Walk through each room, ringing the bell or playing the bowl in all corners to ensure thorough cleansing.
Finish by lighting a white candle to symbolize purity and new beginnings, and take a moment to set your intentions for a clear and harmonious environment.
7. Tranquillity candle ritual
Carve a symbol of tranquility (such as a snowflake or a rune for peace) into a white or blue candle.
As you light it, envision the flame bringing serenity and clarity within you. Let it burn as you meditate on an area in your life where you need more peace and calm.
8. Moon water manifestation
Create a batch of Snow Moon water by placing a jar of water under the Full Moon.
Full instructions here: How to Make Moon Water
Whisper your intentions for clarity, transformation, and peace into the water. Use it throughout the month to anoint yourself, your tools, or your space as a reminder of your goals.
9. Snow Moon mirror meditation
Use the reflective power of the Snow Moon to gain deeper self-awareness and clarity.
Find a quiet, comfortable space where you won’t be disturbed. Place a mirror in front of you, and light a white or silver candle to represent the Snow Moon’s light.
Sit comfortably and gaze into the mirror. As you look at your reflection, focus on seeing beyond the surface. Ask yourself, “What truths do I need to see?” and “What clarity am I seeking?”
Spend 10-15 minutes in this meditative state, allowing any insights or truths to come forward. Trust what you receive, however symbolic of off beat.
After the meditation, journal about any revelations or insights you received, and consider how you can integrate this newfound clarity into your life.
10. Strengthening ritual bath
Prepare a ritual bath infused with herbs and ingredients that promote clarity and insight, such as:
- Peppermint (for mental clarity)
- Eucalyptus (for focus)
- Lavender (for calm and clear thinking)
Add a few drops of your favourite essential oils, such as:
- Lemon (for purification)
- Rosemary (for mental clarity)
- Frankincense (for spiritual insight)
Light candles, and soak under the energy of the Full Moon. Reflect on the clarity you seek and envision it illuminating your mind and spirit in the months ahead.
February’s full moon is the only Snow Moon this year, so don’t let it pass you by! Listen deeply to this serene and ancient call to honour your transformation and strengthen your connection to the greater whole.
This Moon reminds us that, like the snow, we have the ability to cleanse and transform, capable of weathering the harshest conditions and emerging renewed. We are being urged to trust our paths, even when the way forward seems uncertain, and to remember that clarity often comes in the quiet moments when we listen to the voice within.
Blessed full Moon.