There’s a full moon tonight.

Of course, I didn’t have to see the glowing orb overhead to know this. My body told me.

I’ve been in one of those loony moods.

Touch me! Get your hands off me!

I have a million things to say! I can’t write a single word!

I need you, now! Get away from me, now!

In many ways, my life—and my husband’s life—will be easier when this period passes. And yet I sense great transformational potential at this time of the lunar cycle.

That’s part of what makes me crazy. I know amazing things could and should be happening but instead, I’m twisted up in angst and aggravation.

Things come to a head during a full moon; I suspect it’s because the wisdom of the body takes the reins. Suppressed feelings burst out. Tension makes us snap like twigs. Our body has had it with the emotional hide-and-seek we play.

Some of us break down, precipitating the need to rebuild on a new foundation. Sometimes that’s necessary. But monthly disintegration doesn’t serve.

So how can we harness the power of the moon for growth and renewal?

Here are a few ideas:

1.      Practice yoga 

I know, some lineages discourage practice during a full moon. But I crave it more than ever. If you’re not taking the time to explore your body for hidden tension, it will find its expression now. Recommit to a regular practice of release as a buffer against the pull of the emotional tides.

 2.      Seek support

This is a wonderful time to connect with the people with whom you can be yourself. You know, the ones to whom you can admit, “I’m feeling like a complete lunatic” and they just nod in understanding rather than run away. If you don’t have people like that in your life right now, consider seeing a counselor or other professional. Everyone needs a release valve.

 3.      Try something new

Don’t quit your day job and run off to Hollywood today. But maybe take a minor risk and be a little adventurous. Let the extra light reveal hidden aspects of yourself. Stay grounded but stretch your limits. Do something brave and be proud.

4.      Express yourself 

Use the moon as a source of inspiration. If you like to write, write about the effects of the moon or pen a story with a full moon as the backdrop. If you make visual art, create something amazing with your hands. Dance, sing, shake or roar. Just let it out.

5.      Embrace the dark side 

It’s ironic, but the light of the moon can illuminate the shadow side of our personalities. That’s uncomfortable but a necessary part of becoming a healthier, more integrated person. So, acknowledge your mania, rage, jealousy or restlessness. Welcome these intense emotions to the full spectrum of your experience as a living, breathing creature. Chances are, the negative feelings will lose their luster once they get some attention and appreciation.

If all else fails, remember that this, too, shall pass.

Until it cycles back again on March 27th.

Like elephant journal on Facebook.

Ed: Brianna Bemel