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 This seemed all too apropos for me to post as close to the night of the Full Wolf Moon as possible. It was so bright with the colorful halos around it this weekend, it already appeared all the way there. Alas, I ran out of time with my schedule yesterday, but since the moon’s lingering beauty and power will remain at least three days more, this is still relevant. It is a special time of year, for those two items alone. To me, the wolf symbolizes resilience, perseverance, and inner resolves. Making the most of our reserves, if you will. Unless you are a purposeful lone wolf, there’s no reason not to draw on some help from the pack (or our friends and family) when we need to. At the beginning of the year, this January Full Moon also brings with it, an air of mystery of the unknown. The year is new, awaiting us and we have yet to see how exactly things are going to unfold. There might be some fear, caution, or trepidation with these looming question marks. This could also be coupled with excitement, anticipation, and a healthy sense of adventure. I’m going to lean in harder to the latter, myself. Facing the fear and doing it anyway, feels about right at the moment.

Scary Stuff

Speaking of shaking hands with the big scary out there, I will be sharing my intimate “Colleen Confessional” on my podcast, “Women Who Howl at the Moon” this month. It can be a little vulnerable and unnerving sharing some of my deepest thoughts with a microphone for 30-40 minutes and putting them out there on the Interweb for all to hear, but I am definitely one to trust my instincts.

At the next full moon, make a vow, alone or with your partner, to bring forth all erotic powers. Begin with a blissful bath in oil-scented water; this essential oil must be the one that makes you feel sexiest. For me, it is an equal mix of vanilla and amber, which I call “Vamber;” it has never failed me. When I wear this unguent, I feel as if a cloud of sensuality surrounds me.

Sit in a darkened room, encircled by flickering jasmine, musk, or “vamber” candles. Raise a cup of jasmine tea or a glass of wine from a vintage that represents a lucky year for you, and speak this spell aloud:

Many of our full moon names come from medieval books of hours or from Native American spirit-ways. Here is a list of rare names from these two branches of traditions that you may want to use in your lunar rituals.

January: Old Moon, Chaste Moon; this fierce Wolf Moon is the time to recognize your strength of spirit

On this eve of the Full Wolf (Cold) Moon, I'm somehow feeling both very contemplative and fired-up at the same time. Must be the wolves calling to me. As I'd mentioned in my recent Patreon moon phases update to my patrons this month, this is the season when the canines get frisky. The wolves traditionally begin their mating season at the end of January into March, and according to the Farmer's Almanac, it is at this time you will most likely hear their beautiful, lonely howls. They are also often on the hunt in the cold of winter.

Of Wolves and Lions

Besides this moon phase having to do with wolves, big cats are also involved, as the Full Moon has moved into the sign of Leo the Lion. This signifies a desire to fully embrace your baddest, boldest self. Feel free to ignore any insecurities or hang-ups that might otherwise get in your way. The time is right to set your goals, follow through, and let your heart lead you where you need to go.

Is something getting in your way? Do you feel stalled out and overcome with procrastination? To overcome any blocks obstructing your creativity and productivity, you can dispel the negative energy by going for a walk in the nearest park. Find a round, flat rock, six to ten inches wide. This will become an altar supplied directly to you by Mother Nature, and it will have the purest energy. Begin by charging this stone on the full moon at your home altar. Light a white candle for purification, and then place your hand on the stone and chant three times:

Obstacles, take flight!

Today’s Full Monday Moon on the 27^th is known as the Beaver Moon or the Mourning Moon. It’s true the holidays aren’t always a barrel of laughs for everyone, and in fact can stir up old resentments and new stressors. You could consider or feel the need to make this a time of hibernating and healing if that sounds healthier for you. Are there any social obligations you can skip? Any family rituals that you’ve outgrown? Perhaps it’s time to create some new traditions of your own with you second “family” network of close and trusted friends. Or just keep it simple with your significant other. As Diana Rajchel points out in this year’s Llewellyn Witches’ Datebook, “forced jollity” might not be the way to go for you at this time. Ask yourself instead if what you need is some self-care and self-love right now. Ask this Full Moon for some added protection as well, so old wounds aren’t reopened again. Because Goddess knows, there are some unhappy souls who will always test your boundaries around this time of year.

What Do We Like to Howl About?

Laury Christian Post, our latest “Women Who Howl at the Moon,” podcast guest was a very welcome addition to the show. She has her own cleverly named studio, Ravenrock Healing Arts, in Hartland, and has many nurturing services to offer, including reiki, pilates, and a unique healing through arts class. Be sure to listen to this episode to find out about unlikely friendships between ravens and wolves, being open to possibilities, and her special village holiday event this December 1^st.

There’s a whole lot going on in August, starting with the celebration of Lammas/Lughnassadh today, coinciding with the first of two supermoons this month. You can hear my take on tonight’s lovely Corn Moon/Full Sturgeon Moon on my minipod, courtesy of “Women Who Howl at the Moon.” Tonight should give you something to howl about for sure! While you’re at it, why not practicing some gratitude for any bounty you’ve enjoyed recently in your life? I certainly count friends, loved ones, and pets as riches you just can’t put a price tag on. Light an orange candle for enthusiasm and rekindling optimism and let them know you care—with a simple gesture, a quick note, or a lovingly prepared meal from scratch this evening. It’s something we could all stand to do a bit more of, myself included. And when it comes to yourself, be sure to practice some self-love, too.