The Hunter’s Full Moon: A Full Moon Release Ritual

Understanding the Hunter’s Moon

Personally, I feel exhausted around the full Moon; some people describe feeling energised and ready to take on any challenge. These are personal experiences, rather than an established effect of lunar gravity on our bodies. For me, the Moon represents the divine feminine. Gazing at her beauty against a black velvet sky, when clouds and rain do not get in the way, is truly magical.

The Hunter’s Moon is the full Moon that follows the Harvest Moon, which is the full Moon nearest the autumn equinox. In 2026, the Hunter’s Moon falls on 26 October, reaching its full phase at 4.12am GMT. The traditional name reflects the time of year when people hunted and prepared for the colder months ahead, gathering supplies and getting ready for winter.

In spiritual practice, the Hunter’s Moon offers a meaningful opportunity to reflect on what we have gathered throughout the year, both physically and emotionally. As autumn deepens and the nights grow longer, we can use this seasonal turning point to pause, review our experiences and decide what we no longer wish to carry forward.

The Hunter’s Moon is an ideal theme for a ritual centred on release, inner strength and renewal. It invites us to acknowledge disappointments, recognise unhealthy patterns and let go of thoughts or habits that prevent us from moving forward. Rather than viewing release as a rejection of the past, consider it an act of self-awareness. Every experience can teach us something, but we don't have to carry every hurt, regret, or fear indefinitely. Try this, or simply sit in the energy of the full Moon and say aloud everything you wish to release, then give gratitude to the Universe and the Moon for taking it from you.

The Meaning of a Full Moon Release Ritual

A release ritual encourages you to identify what is weighing on your mind and consciously decide what you are ready to change. This might include negative self-talk, resentment, disappointment, limiting beliefs, unhelpful habits or expectations that no longer reflect who you are. This may include people who drain your energy.

The aim is not to erase the past or suppress difficult emotions. It is to acknowledge your experiences, learn from them and choose how you wish to move forward.

Before beginning, take a little time to consider what you hope to achieve. You may feel ready to release something that has troubled you for a long time, or you may simply want to clear your mind and reconnect with your inner wisdom or intuition. You do not need to see the Moon for the ritual to be worthwhile. You can practise indoors, regardless of the weather, and use the Moon as a symbolic focus for reflection.

Before lighting a candle or incense, use a suitable heat-resistant holder on a stable surface, keep it well away from paper, fabrics, children and pets, and never leave it unattended. A battery-operated candle is a suitable alternative.

Take a candle, preferably white, and light it if you wish. Then use a pen and paper to write down what no longer serves you. Read through it and make sure you have included everything that may weigh heavily on your energy.

Take a few moments of stillness before continuing. Rip up the paper and put it in a bin, or recycle it where your local service accepts it. Please do not release paper into rivers, streams or other waterways. Breathe out as you do this, imagining that you are releasing what no longer serves you. Always finish by giving gratitude and thanks, and extinguish any candle or incense.

Hunter’s Moon Correspondences

In contemporary Moon rituals, certain colours, herbs, crystals, and tarot cards serve as symbolic aids for reflection and intention-setting. These associations vary between spiritual traditions and are optional. In a previous blog, I have talked a little about manifesting.

Colours: Silver, white, blue, yellow and orange. Silver and white symbolise lunar light and clarity; blue suggests calm, while orange and yellow can represent warmth, confidence and renewed energy.

Herbs, oils and incense: Rose, lavender, rosemary, sage, cedar, frankincense, sandalwood and juniper. These are commonly associated with peace, remembrance, protection, wisdom, and renewal. Use herbs and fragrances safely, particularly around pets, children and anyone sensitive to smoke or essential oils.

Crystals: Moonstone, selenite, clear quartz, black tourmaline, obsidian, amber, rose quartz, labradorite and opal. In crystal traditions, these stones are associated with themes such as intuition, clarity, grounding, emotional balance and personal transformation. These are spiritual associations, not scientifically established effects. Understand the energy of the crystals you are drawn to; we are all different.

Tarot cards: The Moon represents intuition, uncertainty and the exploration of the subconscious. The High Priestess symbolises inner wisdom, reflection and hidden knowledge. The Empress represents nurturing, growth, and creating a supportive environment.

You could draw one of these cards before beginning your meditation and reflect on how its symbolism relates to what you are ready to release. You can also keep a crystal close by. Remember to bring your own unique approach to the ritual in a way that feels comfortable to you.

Chakras: The Crown Chakra is associated with spiritual connection and a broader perspective, while the Third Eye Chakra is linked in spiritual traditions with intuition, insight and self-reflection. You may use these themes to guide your meditation if they are part of your practice. A future blog will cover chakras in more detail if you are unsure what these are.

Making the Most of the Hunter’s Moon

Traditionally, the Hunter’s Moon follows the Harvest Moon and gets its name from seasonal hunting and winter preparations. Its significance is rooted in the practical rhythms of the natural year, although different cultures have their own lunar names and traditions. Spiritually, you might view this Moon as an invitation to gather the wisdom of your experiences, release unnecessary burdens and prepare yourself for the quieter months ahead.

As autumn deepens, remember that letting go is not a sign of weakness. It can be an act of courage, allowing you to acknowledge the past while making conscious choices about your future. I work with tarot most of the time, but as we head into Samhain, my Halloween Oracle deck is a must. For me, the Winter card suggests a pause, followed by a beginning, and that is the energy I associate with the next couple of months.

Use the Hunter’s Full Moon as a reminder to release what no longer supports you, nurture what matters, and step into the coming season with greater clarity, confidence, and purpose.

Moon dates and naming: Royal Museums Greenwich’s 2026 calendar and full Moon names. For practical guidance, see London Fire Brigade’s candle safety advice.