Magical Moons of Winter and Spring
Understanding the Meaning of the Seasonal Celtic Moons
Nov 12, 2009
Names of trees are used to identify the months of the Celtic Calendar. It's believed that each tree possesses a magic within. They each represent a different cycle of life, some reflective, others more active.
Learning the names of the moons and what they represent can help an individual to stay in touch with the emotional undertow that affects day-to-day existence. By centering your plans around the monthly moons, it's believed that you can balance your tasks to take advantage of the magic.
The Elder Moon – November 25 to December 23
This is the last full moon of the Celtic months and it indicates completeness. This is the time to take stock of your year in order to plan for the next.
The Elder tree has long been recognized as the tree of life and death. It is very hardy and able to withstand harshness and come back better than before. It has white flowers in the spring which symbolizes life and black berries in the summer that stand for death.
The Birch Moon – December 24 to January 20
This is the moon for focus. It symbolizes beginnings and the development of new plans. The Birch tree grows very tall and the branches reach upward toward the sky.
The tree's bark is silver and glows in the moonlight, lighting the path of the new year.
The Rowan Moon – January 21 to February 17
The Rowan Moon is the moon of communication. Psychic abilities, clear goals, these can be expected during the reign of the Rowan Moon.
The Rowan tree, also known as the Mountain Ash, grows in impossible places reaching astonishing heights. It is the symbol of preservation.
The Ash Moon – February 18 to March 17
This is the time for love. St. Valentine marked it well and the magic of romance in the air is a sure bet. This is also the perfect time to travel.
The Ash tree has traditionally been known for its magic powers. In many countries, placing Ash leaves in water was thought to create a cure for the sick. The bowl of leaves was placed by the sickbed.
The Alder Moon – March 18 to April 14
Business success and academics are the rule of this moon. Your business could take an unexpected spurt of growth this Celtic month, or the long hours of study that was put in a project could bear fruit.
The Alder tree, when cut, turns from white bark to red bark marking change. It is part of the willow family and grows with its feet in water while it branches reach upward. It is said to be the tree of fertility with both male and female properties.
The Willow Moon – April 15 to May 12
Good impressions can be made during this moon cycle. Releasing your emotions and letting go of the past could attract a new love, or a new job.
The Willow tree is the healer of broken hearts. It has long been associated with witchcraft as magic flying brooms were made of willow branches.
Other Moons in Celtic Tradition
There are seven more moons in the Celtic Calendar cycle. Each represents other aspects of life and learning. In Neolithic Europe the moon was recognized as a Goddess and worshiped by the fertility cults of that era. The calendar is based on myth and fact gathered throughout the ages.
For more information, check out the Celtic Tree Calendar.
Source:
Enhancing your Mind Body Spirit, MMVI IMP AB and Summertime Publishing Ltd., USA.
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