Traditionally, the full moon is a spiritually powerful time. This is when the moon’s energy is at its peak, and many people like to harness it for meditation. October’s full moon represents a celebration of the harvest and the coming of, and preparation for, winter. Use this as an opportunity to create your own special meditation.

About October’s Full Moon

This year, the full moon in October falls on the 20th, a Wednesday. One of the most common names for this moon is theHunter’s Moon. The Hunter’s Moon usually arrives in October but can sometimes come in early November. When that happens, the Harvest Moon, usually in September, comes in early October. On rare occasions, both of these two moons arrive in October.

Native American tribes hunted at this time of year because they had good visibility after harvesting their fields. This was also when they began stocking up on meat for the approaching winter. The Hunter’s Moon marked a feast day among both Indigenous tribes and European communities. This was a time to enjoy the harvest and celebrate before winter arrived.

Many cultures call the October moon “Hunter’s Moon”, but it also has someother names:

• Blood Moon
• Sanguine Moon
• Freezing Moon
• Drying Rice Moon
• Ice Moon
• Migrating Moon

Meditating on the October Full Moon

Both the meaning behind the Hunter’s Moon and the fall season provide ample ideas for meditation themes. “Hunter’s Moon” is primarily a practical name — it indicates that this is a time to prepare for winter.

From a spiritual perspective, consider how you’ll face the winter season as you meditate on October 20th. Think about what challenges you in the winter, such as a low mood, and reflect on how to face it and the fact that you’ll not only survive, but thrive. Embrace the traditional celebratory nature of the Hunter’s Moon. Meditate on all you have to be thankful for, on abundance and appreciation for the good things in your life.

Fall, in general, is considered to be a time of release. As the trees let go of their leaves, you too can find release through a full moon meditation. Focus your meditation on liberating yourself from negative thoughts and habits, toxic relationships, and sources of stress in your life.

Meditations to Try

BetterSleep offers several guided meditations perfect for the Hunter’s Moon. “Ara’s Moon Reflection” takes you to a beach to witness and appreciate a full moon. If you need to release the energy from a bad day, try the “Letting Go of Your Day” meditation.

“Gratitude for Better Sleep” will help you appreciate what you have and let it guide you gently into a peaceful slumber. Our “Autumn Night Visualization” practice will put you in the right mood for a fall moon reflection.

This month’s full moon meditation can be whatever you want it to be. Take advantage of the moon’s energy for a meditation of release, celebration, preparation, or simply for better sleep and mental health.