Welcome to the dog days of summer! Although canines do need to stay extra cool and hydrated at this languid time of year, the phrase actually refers to the rising of Sirius, the “Dog Star.” The star system Sirius (said to have uncanny ties to Earth) disappears below the horizon in the spring. Then it reappears at dawn on July 23, bright ruby-red. This event, known as the heliacal rising of Sirius, was a hugely important moment for most of the ancient world.
On that day, Sirius, the Sun and the Earth form a straight line across space. Egyptian temples were designed to observe this alignment through a strategically-placed hole in the wall. At the moment Sirius became visible, its ruby-red light struck the altar in the temple’s inner sanctum. This high spiritual occurrence, which coincided closely with the annual flooding of the Nile, marked the beginning of the New Year.
Interestingly, the Aquarius Full Moon is about to arrive on the power date of July 23 (at 7:37 pm PDT), and it’s bound to bring some profound energies that may feel like a fresh start. Since Aquarius is an air sign, one good way to kick off this lunation is by cleansing the air of your home. Throw open all the windows, burn some incense, spritz the corners with salt water – whatever makes you feel fresh and invigorated.
When the cool, friendly Aquarius Moon opposes the warm, heartfelt, Leo Sun, it’s also a good time for a gathering – especially one that brings together like-minded people who share a common cause. The Moon makes a wide (9 degree) conjunction to Saturn, which favors serious, meaningful events, such as a Sierra Club meeting or an astrology ritual. It’s possible to make some quality connections that stand the test of time (and may even change your life!). Express yourself as authentically as possible, and you’ll be more likely to connect with those who are part of your tribe.
Another great way to celebrate the Aquarius Full Moon is with a Cone of Power ritual. It’s a method of raising energy to achieve a specific aim – and is especially powerful when done outside under a Full Moon. This ritual is from my book, Ten Minute Moon Rituals: Easy Tips for Working with Each Astrological Sign to Develop Your True, Lunar Nature.
You will need:
*At least three like-minded friends
*A place of power, preferably outdoors
*A shared intention
*One crystal for each person
1. Determine what intention you want to send forth. If everyone is distressed about a tragic event that just occurred, you might send healing energies to the victims. If one of your friends needs a new home, you could dedicate the cone of power to that. Or, if you’re all in a financial crunch, you can focus on manifesting new work or a specific amount of cash.
2. Once you’re ready, go outside with your crystals and form a circle. Everyone raises their arms and says, “Hail and welcome, Grandmother Moon!” Then you state your intention out loud.
3. Join hands for a moment in reverent silence. Then drop them and slowly begin moving your hands in a wide, clockwise circle, synchronizing with your friends. Hum softly, increasing in volume as your hands move faster and lift higher. When the cone of power has reached a peak, you’ll know it. At that point, fling your hands skyward as you release your intention with joyful, triumphant whoops and hollers. Kiss your crystals; they now contain the power of this ritual and will keep the magic going.
Happy Full Moon!
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