December 2017 Full Moon: Reflect and Release

Happy last full moon of 2017 everyone! This full moon occurs at 11 degrees of Gemini AND also happens to coincide with the planet Mercury starting its retrograde cycle (December 3-December 22). So, what does this mean? It is time to REFLECT AND RELEASE!

Full moons are a time to release what is no longer serving you so you may prepare for the upcoming new moon cycle which is a time for manifestation. Just as the moon influences the tides, it also influences the flow of our emotions. Things come to the surface that may be buried deep down. So you start to feel the pain, the anxiety, etc. that you have been pushing aside or refusing to acknowledge. At this time you are being called to release so that you may open that space to love, joy, and abundance. That is why so many people say the full moon makes them "crazy" or very emotional.

​This specific full moon is happening at 11 degrees of Gemini. The Gemini archetype is one of mental exploration and communication. I THINK, THEREFORE I AM would be their slogan. When a full moon happens within a certain sign, those archetypical influences can be expressed or come into focus for every person (how depends on the area represented by Gemini in your birth chart). Overall, many of us will be experiencing thoughts or patterns of thinking that keep us from moving forward in life. Some may cause anxiety as the mind is a very powerful influence on our nervous system or some may be experiencing some depression or moodiness. What ever arises, this full moon is asking you to release it. 

In addition to the full moon, Mercury the planet that rules Gemini (and Virgo) is also turning retrograde until December 22nd. Many people fear when this happens, as technology can go a little crazy during these weeks. To learn more about that, check out Susan Miller's explanation on Mercury retrograde. I have learned to love Mercury retrograde as it is one of the best times to reflect and go inward. To discover your truth and redefine your values. This is a perfect time for healing and upgrading our thinking. To create an outlook that is aligned with your true self. What a great way to close out 2017 and open up to the new year! 

​How to make the most of this full moon and mercury retrograde? Practice patience with yourself and go inward. Journal your thoughts, emotion, dreams, etc. Ask yourself the tough question. Find out what is causing you that anxiety or persistent negative thought patterns. AND then release them. Really take the time for you and slow down a little. Meditate, practice yoga, go for more walks, read, or find whatever makes you feel at peace. Notice when your thoughts begin to go negative and say to yourself "I want to feel good" (this comes from one of my favorite authors Dr. Wayne Dyer and "The Power of Intention"). 

Be sure to include these elements to help you along this process:

Crystals

• Larimar- to help soothe your emotional body and connect to your feminine power
• Azurite- to expand your awareness and open your mind to a new vision 
• Lapis Lazuli- to align yourself to your highest truth 

​Essential oils

• ​Hyssop- to help shed old patterns and behaviors
• Bergamont- to uplift your mind and enhance positivity 
• Clary Sage- for emotional well-being and to calm your nervous system  
  

Happy Full Moon and Releasing!

With Love and Light,

​Ashley