The Full Moon that graces the December sky is known as the Cold Moon and marks the year’s final lunar phase, heralding the arrival of winter. The name originates from Native American and early European traditions and was chosen to reflect the cold temperatures and the deepening chill of the season.
The Origins of the Cold Moon
The term “Cold Moon” is attributed to the Mohawk people and other Native American communities who named the Full Moons by observing the cycles of nature. For these communities, living in harmony with nature was (and still is) hugely significant. The Cold Moon signified the time when winter’s icy grip began to settle over the land, requiring important preparation in order to survive the long, harsh months ahead.
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Similarly, European traditions referred to December’s Full Moon as the “Moon Before Yule,” tying Her to the festive season and the Winter Solstice, always a time of renewal and rebirth.
Other names include the “Long Night Moon,” a nod to the lengthy, dark evenings that are characteristic of this time of year.
Ancient Lore and Spiritual Significance of the December Full Moon
The Cold Moon held deep spiritual meaning for many ancient cultures.
The Celts saw this Full Moon as a time for introspection and connection with the unseen world. In their calendar, this Moon often coincided with the Festival of Yule, marking the return of the Sun after the Winter Solstice. Fires were lit and rituals performed to honour the cycle of death and rebirth.
In Norse mythology, the Cold Moon was linked to Skadi, the Goddess of Winter, who embodied resilience and independence. This is because it was believed the presence of Skadi during this time encouraged individuals to draw upon their inner strength and adapt to challenging conditions.
The Cold Moon is also connected to the Crone aspect of the Triple Goddess in Wiccan traditions. Because The Crone represents wisdom and endings, this Moon phase is a time to reflect on the past year, release what no longer serves and prepare for new beginnings.
Astrological Influence of the Cold Moon
Depending on the year, The Cold Moon often falls in the Zodiac Sign of Gemini or Cancer. Each of these Star Signs imbues the Moon with their own distinct energies that in turn influence all 12 Zodiac Signs.
If the Cold Moon Falls in Gemini
When she aligns with Gemini, the Cold Moon emphasises communication, curiosity and adaptability. Ruled by the planet Mercury, the Sign of the Twins is associated with the exchange of ideas, which makes this a time for us to engage in lively conversations and intellectual pursuits. Under the influence of Gemini, the compulsive communicator, we may feel more inspired to share their thoughts, connect with loved ones and seek clarity about unresolved matters.
For the Mutable Signs (Gemini, Virgo, Sagittarius and Pisces), this Lunar phase brings the need to balance mental stimulation with emotional grounding. It encourages the expression of truth and fosters understanding in relationships.
If the Cold Moon Falls in Cancer
The Moon rules Cancer, so when the Cold Moon resides in the Sign of the Crab, our emotional sensitivity and intuition will be heightened. This is because Water Sign Cancer is deeply connected to home, family and security. This alignment invites introspection and encourages us to prioritise self-care and nurturing others.
Cardinal Signs (Aries, Cancer, Libra and Capricorn), will feel the need to focus on emotional well-being and release lingering attachments. The Cold Moon urges individuals to honour their feelings and create sacred spaces of comfort and warmth.
How the December Full Moon Affects Each Zodiac Sign
The Cold Moon’s Zodiac placement influences all 12 signs in unique ways.
- Aries: The Cold Moon is a time for Aries to slow down and reflect on their personal goals. It’s a time to nurture connections with family and for competitive Aries to find an important balance between ambition and self-care.
- Taurus: This Full Moon encourages Taurus to re-evaluate their values and financial priorities. Letting go of material attachments (not easy for Taurus) and embracing simplicity can bring peace.
- Gemini: For Gemini, the Cold Moon highlights opportunities for personal growth and clearer communication. Journaling and introspection can lead to transformative insights.
- Cancer: Ruled by the Moon, Cancer unsurprisingly feels Her influence deeply. This is a potent time for emotional release, focusing on self-love and setting boundaries.
- Leo: The Cold Moon inspires Leo to find deeper meaning in their work and creative pursuits. Reconnecting with their purpose can spark new ideas for the year ahead.
- Virgo: For Virgo, this Full Moon highlights relationships and encourages compromise. This means that it’s a time to mend bridges and foster deeper connections.
- Libra: Libra may feel drawn to declutter their physical and emotional spaces. Creating harmony in their environment can lead to a sense of renewal.
- Scorpio: The Cold Moon awakens Scorpio’s intuitive and transformative powers. This makes it an ideal time for shadow work to confront unresolved fears, insecurities, or undesirable traits. This makes it easier to let go of past pain.
- Sagittarius: For Sagittarius, the Cold Moon brings opportunities to expand their horizons. Therefore, exploring new philosophies or spiritual practices can be enriching.
- Capricorn: As the Cold Moon aligns with Capricorn’s season, she urges reflection focussing on personal and professional achievements. Setting realistic goals for the new year is key.
- Aquarius: Those of us born under the sign of the Water Bearer are called to connect with our community and share our unique perspective. The Cold Moon fosters collaboration and innovation.
- Pisces: This Full Moon enhances Pisces’ creativity and spiritual awareness. Engaging in artistic or meditative practices can bring a greater sense of fulfilment.
Rituals for Harnessing the December Full Moon’s Energy
The Cold Moon is a powerful time for rituals that focus on release and renewal. Here are some simple rituals that will help you align with Her energy:
- Cleansing Ritual: Burn sage, palo santo, or rosemary to clear stagnant energy from your space and invite warmth and positivity
- Moon Bathing: Sit under the moonlight to absorb its calming energy. Reflect on what you want to release and visualize it dissolving into the light
- Manifestation Journal: Write down your intentions for the coming year in a journal you keep solely for this purpose. This will aid in harnessing The Cold Moon’s introspective energy, which supports setting meaningful goals
- Crystal Work: Use crystals like moonstone, clear quartz, or amethyst. This will enhance your meditation and help you better connect with the moon’s vibration
- Create a Winter Altar: Decorate your altar with seasonal items like evergreen branches, holly and candles. This honours the Cold Moon and the Season of Yule. Use your altar as a calm place to aid reflection and meditation.
The December Full Moon is more than a celestial event; she is a spiritual gateway to reflection, release and renewal. This is because Her ancient lore reminds us of the cyclical nature of life, while Her astrological influence guides us toward personal growth and connection.
By embracing the wisdom of the Cold Moon, we can navigate the transition from one year to the next with clarity and purpose. As the long nights envelop us, we should allow this Full Cold Moon to inspire us to find our inner light and prepare for the blessings of a new year.