You’ve probably heard of the phrase “the full moon” before, but what does it mean? The full Moon is a traditional time to perform rituals and spells because it has both positive and negative energy depending on its lunar phase. For many witches, the Sturgeon Moon (also known as the green corn moon or grain moon) heralds an oncoming harvest and the need to embrace individuality. This year, the Sturgeon Moon is also the only blue Moon!
What is the Sturgeon Moon?
In August, the full Moon is sometimes called a Sturgeon Moon, named after a sturgeon fish that was considered very large and a good meal. Typically, you’ll see other names for August’s full Moon, including the green corn moon, grain moon, and the August Blue Moon this year. The specific word doesn’t matter as much as knowing how to make use of it.
Historians think that consistent crop preservation and rotation may have formed the early need for naming full moons, such as August’s “sturgeon moon.” This marine fish of North America was once supposed to bring big catches to hunters on the Great Lakes and the Northeast’s Lake Champlain throughout this month, according to the Old Farmer’s Almanac.
With a lineage tracing back 136 million years, sturgeon are often referred to as “living fossils.” Many professional anglers, according to RustyAngler.com, think that bigger fish are more likely to swim inland, where small prey usually populates, around the time of a full moon, when the tide is highest. They swim in to get their fill, while wise fishermen get the chance at a trophy catch without heading out to deeper waters.
The History of the Sturgeon Moon
Although its popularity amongst witches has grown over time, it’s still not a commonly known moon phase. In fact, most people have never heard of it before. Although not widely celebrated in North America, many cultures take note of its presence each year. Those who do celebrate it typically perform rituals in honor of enjoying two complete moon cycles per month.
Full Moon names have been used by various cultures to describe the full Moon during the year. Specifically, Native tribes used Moon phases and cycles to keep track of the seasons by giving a unique name to each recurring full Moon, including the Sturgeon Moon and the Flower Moon. The different full Moon names were used to identify the entire month during which each occurred.
Although many Native American tribes gave distinct titles to the full Moon, the most well-known full Moon names come from Algonquin tribes who lived in New England and westbound to Lake Superior. The Algonquin tribes had possibly the most significant effect on the early European settlers in America, and the settlers assumed the Native American habit of naming the full Moons.
Spiritual Meaning and Intentions to take into your Rituals
- Appreciation and Gratitude
- Reaping and Harvesting
- Thriving and Flourishing
- Gumption and Initiative
- Versatility and Flexibility
- Strength and Perseverance
How to perform Rituals during the Sturgeon Moon
There are many different kinds of witches and pagans all over the world. So what works for one may not work for others. First, you’ll need to gather items for your rituals. As I’ve mentioned before, if you’re new to witchcraft, it’s best to start with a candle of either blue or black (or both) and a glass of spring waterthe types of candles and colors you choose for any given ritual can vary depending on what kind of spell you are casting. Some witches also like to use a bowl filled with salt water to protect against negative energies.
There is definitely a natural rhythm to the universe, whether it’s the seasons or more cosmic, such as the phases of the Moon.
We know the Moon’s gravitational pull causes anticipated increases and decreases in sea levels. Since our bodies are mainly composed of water, we can also benefit from the phases of the Moon. Witches often find when they align their energies with the specific powers of the Moon, they feel more inspired and productive. TAligning with nature and the environment around us helps us understand ourselves on a deeper level. Many people engage in monthly “full Moon rituals” to align with the cycles of nature to gain perspective and reconnect with themselves.
Here are some ideas of ways other witches are celebrating this year.
Connect With Water
Water is the ideal way to cool down during the hot August days and nights. Spend some time by a lake, ocean, river, or your favorite waterway! Fully submerge in the cool water. Let it flow around you and decompress. Allow all anxiety and worries to slip away with the current or tide. Picture yourself as the water ebbing and flowing freely. Let go of your fears and know that you will find a way to make the best of it, whatever may happen. Spend some time focused on these thoughts. If you feel comfortable, float on the surface of the water and meditate.
Don’t forget to create some Sturgeon Moon Water!
Start Preparing for Autumn and Winter
August is a beautiful time to begin harvesting, preserving, drying, or collecting seeds for next year. You can do this from your own garden, local farms, or a farmer’s market. Create herbal infusions you can use later for salves, tinctures, balms, etc.
Practice Self Care
Take this time to reflect inwards, treat yourself to something special and meditate on this past lunar cycle. What were some wins? Where is your abundance? What are your growth opportunities? What will you be focusing your energy on this upcoming cycle? What changes are you experiencing in your body through this transition? Remember that magic is always what we make of it. Set your intentions, take care of yourself with purpose. Rejuvenate and refresh.
Find Peace in Nature
Surrounding yourself with nature has a grounding and calming effect. Answering your call to wildlife around the full Moon may help calm any unsettling feelings or bring some certainty to unanswered questions. Time spent in nature has a restorative effect and can better support your body tuning into its natural rhythms. Find a spot to sit quietly and take in its splendor, or take a hike in the woods.
Update your Journal
Around the full Moon is the ideal time to dust off that magnificent journal. It may be wise to write down how you feel or write answers to questions you’ve been asking yourself. This is also an excellent opportunity to write down things you wish to manifest in your life or the intentions you have. This period may cause some people to feel unsettled or unfocused, so brainstorming and journaling can help you focus on what you want and what you want to let go of. Expressing through writing can help you identify what is weighing you down (a habit, situation, person, finances, etc.) and can provide more clarity than simply thinking about it. As witches, our magic is usually born from our manifesting it into this realm. Manifesting requires focus and intent. Use this time to set your intentions and write them down to continue to reflect on them.
Journal Prompts
- Write a letter or note of appreciation to a loved one! This time of year is about abundance and harvesting what we’ve sown. Whether literally or metaphorically. Let those who add to your life know how grateful you are! Then actually send it to them!
- What is one last goal you’d love to accomplish before Autumn is here? What’s getting in your way? Are you fearful? How can you overcome to achieve your dreams?
- Create a list of spells to try during this next season.
- Are you inauthentic in any way? Can you make a change? How can you let go of anything negative as you head towards Autumn and Winter?
Folklore and Superstitions about the Sturgeon Moon
- Clothes washed for the first time in the full Moon will not last long.
- If you glimpse the new Moon over your right shoulder, you will have good luck.
- To have a project prosper, start it during the new Moon.
- Babies born a day after the full Moon enjoy success and endurance.
