How to Do Dark Moon Journaling

Release the old and welcome the new, one entry at a time.

A desk with a book for writing.

(ideanur / Shutterstock.com)

The night sky's majestic presence has captivated humans for centuries. There’s more than meets the eye, with the moon carrying symbolic significance. The new moon stands out among the lunar phases as a time of darkness.

According to the Yoga Journal, during the night before the new moon, the celestial body loses its light. These hours of the lunar cycle are known as the dark moon — a period for letting go, rest, and setting intentions. This unique window is also a great time for introspection, with journaling a powerful practice to do so.

The Wisdom of the Dark Moon
The dark moon represents the end of the lunar cycle, and the start of a new one, a blog on The Seasonal Soul explains. It’s the perfect moment to pause and reflect on what you learned in the previous moon cycle. This period can be compared to the final savasana or corpse pose in yoga practice, when you lie on your back and the body takes in the full power of the yoga practice. 

The dark moon is the savasana of the lunar cycle — a time when real inner growth unfolds. This transition allows you to pause and integrate what you’ve learned from the past lunar cycle before moving forward for what’s to come.

The Benefits of Journaling During the Dark Moon
According to astrology, the new moon offers the chance to start fresh, reset, and gain new perspectives on how you want your life to look, Today reports. And what better way to do that than journaling? Journaling allows you to get in touch with your innermost self and see how far you’ve come. Over time, revisiting past entries can help you reflect on personal shifts in your life. The new moon is also a time of new beginnings, so make sure to also write down your hopes and dreams for the future.

However, it’s not just about what you write but your surroundings. Make sure to ground yourself, reconnect within, and create a mindful space, according to a blog on The Clear Space. You can do this through lighting a candle and creating a gentle playlist to support your journaling practice. These small steps can enhance the power of your journaling, making it a truly transformative experience.

Try These Transformative Journaling Prompts
If you’re new to dark moon journaling, there are plenty of prompts to get started. One powerful prompt is to ask yourself what lessons you’ve learned, and what wisdom you’re taking forward into the next moon cycle, a blog on The Seasonal Soul suggests. Jot down your “wins” during the month and biggest accomplishments. You can also reflect on any challenges or struggles you faced, and how you can grow from them.

By dedicating time to journaling during the dark moon, you engage in a ritual of self-discovery and personal growth. Whether you're using it to reflect on what was and what you’ve learned or to prepare for what’s to come, the act of journaling allows you to harness the full potential of this powerful lunar phase.

YOU MIGHT ALSO LIKE:
5 Powerful Benefits of Journaling
The Transformative Power of Self-Reflection
How to Use the Moon's Phases to Live Your Best Life