Full Worm Moon Spiritual Meaning March 2024: Here’s What You Need to Know

Time to unearth your potential: What does the 2024 worm Moon mean for you?

“Worm Moon” is the name usually given to the first full moon of Spring, arriving just days after the Spring Equinox in March.

This year, the worm Moon is coupled with a penumbral lunar eclipse, adding another layer of significance to this welcome March Moon.

This is a time when green shoots start to rise up through the dark soil and the first buds appear on the branches of trees. The worm Moon reminds us that new life is stirring just below the surface, and it’s time to call ourselves into action.

When is the full worm Moon 2024?

This March’s worm Moon rises on Monday, March 25, 2024, at 07:00 GMT/ 03:00 EST/11pm PST on Sunday March 24th.

Full moons occur when the Moon is on the opposite side of the Earth from the sun, meaning its face is fully illuminated by the Sun’s rays. This happens approximately once a month, when the moonrise and sunset happen simultaneously, and it’s the peak in the lunar cycle.

What are the origins of the worm Moon?

It’s thought the name “Worm Moon” comes from Native American tribes who gave distinct names to each full Moon, these were based on the time of year and the activities happening in their surroundings. The March Moon is likely called the worm Moon because melting snow means the soil begins to warm up, and earthworms would wriggle up to the surface.

Another theory for the origin of the full worm Moon name suggests a different worm-related phenomenon. When Captain Jonathan Carver visited the Naudowessie (Dakota) and other Native American tribes in the 1760s, he noticed as it became gradually warmer, many little worm-like creatures appeared on the bark of trees. Rising temperatures led to thawing bark, and beetle larvae emerged from beneath it, seeming to wriggle upwards, resembling little worms.

In addition to Native American tribes, the Old Farmer’s Almanac also has its own set of full Moon names, mostly derived from Colonial American and European sources. They also reflect the changing seasons, environment, and activities of the time.

Also read: What’s the Meaning of the Snow Moon in 2024?

What is the spiritual meaning of the worm Moon 2024?

The spiritual significance of the worm Moon usually refers to the end of the winter season in the northern hemisphere and the last of the bitter cold days, as snow melts and the earth gradually warms up.

In the UK where I am, the full worm Moon marks a time when the soil thaws and the last frost is close, as late winter finally gives way to Spring.

Symbolically, the full worm Moon represents the transition from darkness to light, mirroring out own spiritual awakening at this time. March’s full Moon serves as a reminder that we are emerging from the depths of our personal and collective shadows, and stepping into the illuminating light of new possibilities and growth.

Just as the earth begins to stir and the soil warms, the full Worm Moon reflects our own potential for renewal and transformation, heralding a time of emerging from darkness.

In northeastern North America, the March full Moon is referred to as the Sap Moon, because it occurs when the sap of the sugar maples starts to flow. The spiritual meaning of this can be translated into our own lives too – where is your sap rising? Can you feel your energy starting to flow? How can you “tap” into it, and offer it new projects, tasks and activities to rush into?

The spiritual significance of the worm Moon can vary widely depending on cultural and individual beliefs. To the people of ancient cultures, this full Moon would likely mean something entirely different to what it means to us today.

Also, the March full Moon falls in the astrological sign of Libra, bringing an entirely different perspective and potential for interpretation.

Also read: 10 Things You MUST Not Do During a Full Moon!

Other March Moon Names

Sugar Moon (Ojibwe)
Sap Moon (after the taping for maple syrup)
Wind Moon
Wind Strong Moon
Storm Moon
Chaste Moon
Plough Moon
Death Moon
Crow Moon
Crow Comes Back Moon (Northern Ojibwe)
Eagle Moon
Goose Moon (Algonquin, Cree)
Sore Eyes Moon (Dakota, Lakota, Assiniboine) Refers to the blinding rays of sunlight shining low over the horizon

Is the March full Moon a Lenten Moon or Paschal Moon?

The Lenten Moon and the Paschal Moon are both alternative names for March’s full Moon, and are significant in the Christian tradition. The Lenten Moon is the full moon that occurs during the Lenten season, which is the period of fasting and reflection leading up to Easter. On the other hand, the Paschal Moon is the first full moon after the Spring equinox, and its date determines the date of Easter Sunday.

In the Christian calendar, this March’s full moon is a paschal Moon, making Easter fall on March 31st.

5 Worm Moon Rituals for 2024

Like any full Moon, the worm Moon can be a time for ritual and ceremony.

The March full Moon is a great time to harness the rising light and energy of the spring season by gathering with friends and banishing any late winter blues for good. With Old Grandmother Moon at peak illumination, we’re being invited to get outside, put our feet on the earth and celebrate! Here are 5 ways –

1. Group sound healing

Organize a group sound healing session under the light of the full Worm Moon. Encourage each participant to bring a musical instrument or sound-making object to contribute to the collective sonic experience.

Hold the space for yourselves to let loose, symbolizing the emergence from the depths of the subconscious into the light of awareness.

2. Wild nighttime foraging

Celebrate March’s full Moon by planning a nocturnal foraging adventure with friends, to seek out edible wild plants or herbs. Under the glow of the Worm Moon, look for early spring greens such as wild garlic, sorrel and dandelions. Sweet violets and gorse flowers are also abundant around spring equinox.

Even this early in the year, the Moon in March can emphasise our deep connection with the Earth and the sustenance she offers.

3. Full Moon rituals for release

March’s full Moon is ideal for performing rituals of release and letting go.

Write down past challenges or obstacles on pieces of biodegradable paper. Bury these symbolic representations under the light of the Worm Moon, to signify the release of burdens into the dark soil. Spend a few moments grounding into Mother Earth and ask her to take them into her belly, composting them into the fuel needed for new beginnings.

Also read: 5 Rituals for Letting Go

4. Moon mask making

Host a lunar-inspired session of mask-making under the gaze of March’s full Moon. Get together with friends and encourage each participant to create a unique mask that embodies the spirit of their own transformation and rebirth.

You could get inspiration from some of the other full Moon names – the Crow Moon, Storm Moon, Sugar Moon or Death Moon could all be starting points.

If you’re feeling brave, once you have completed your masks, take part in a ceremonial procession or dance under the full moon’s glow, to celebrate the shedding of old identities and help you embrace new possibilities.

5. group storytelling

As the Moon reaches peak illumination, harness the power of collective inspiration by creating the opportunity to share personal or ancestral stories with friends.

Encourage the weaving of collective narratives that symbolize the journey from darkness to light, incorporating elements of folklore and cosmic symbolism. USe storytelling to plant seeds of community and togetherness, honoring balance and harmony between all people.

Manifestation of money with rituals at full Moons

What to manifest on full Worm Moon?

Under the light of March’s full worm Moon, consider focusing on intentions and manifestations related to personal growth, renewal, and emergence. Here are a few areas to focus on –

Self-Discovery and Transformation: Use the energy of the Worm Moon to manifest greater to self-discovery, inner transformation, and shedding old habits or thought patterns that no longer serve your highest good.

New Opportunities: Set intentions to manifest new opportunities, ventures, or creative projects that align with your passions and aspirations. Embrace the energy of the full Moon in March to attract fresh starts and ventures that resonate with your authentic self.

Emotional Healing and Release: Harness the transformative energy of March’s Moon to manifest emotional healing, release past wounds, and cultivate emotional resilience. Set intentions to let go of emotional burdens and invite healing into your life.

Nurturing Relationships and Connections: Use the power of the Full Moon in March to nurture and strengthen meaningful relationships, cultivating a sense of community and support.

Abundance and Prosperity: As the full Moon reaches its peak illumination, brightness and magnetism, manifest abundance and prosperity in your life. Set clear intentions for attracting opportunities for financial growth and stability.