Hello, sweet friend,
October greets us with the deepening energy of transformation as we fully cherish the autumn season. The energies now call us to shed what no longer serves us, preparing for the dark, quiet months ahead. This is a time of reflection, renewal, and spiritual depth as we align with the natural cycles of letting go and ready ourselves for the season of rest, recovery, and transformation.
At La Mia Luna, we encourage everyone to live in sync with natural rhythms and to be aware of seasonal changes, along with their own unique intentions and themes. Every month marks the beginning of a new lunar cycle. Now, let’s explore what the October lunar cycle means and the invitations and highlights it offers us to live more mindfully and in sync with its energies. Welcome to this guidance for the October moon cycle!
The October moon cycle starts on October 3rd with the New Moon in Libra. New moons always occur in the zodiac sign where the sun is currently positioned. We have been experiencing Libra season since September 23rd and will continue under Libra’s influence until October 23rd, when Scorpio energies take over. I warmly recommend diving deeper into Libra season with this Libra season guide.
Before the Libra New Moon, at the very beginning of October, there is a brief but powerful phase of the Dark Moon, when the Moon is transitioning into the new moon cycle. The Dark Moon is the last visible crescent of a waning Moon. This makes the Dark Moon the perfect time to let go of anything you no longer need after the September moon cycle. The beginning of October is reserved for deep reflection and introspection. During the first days of October, become aware of what you need and desire to release. This is a highly intuitive time if you allow it to be. You are encouraged to slow down and surrender to any insights about the darkness that might guide you toward your light for the new moon cycle. Tap into your intuition and journal about your thoughts. Embrace the darkness, shed the old, and prepare for the new.
Once you have completed your Dark Moon phase introspection, you are ready to begin the new moon cycle from a renewed perspective. The New Moon always offers a new energetic phase and opportunities to manifest powerful changes in your life. The themes of your intentions are tied to your current deepest needs and desires. I also encourage you to become aware of your energies on the mind, body, soul, and social connection levels. Additionally, consider incorporating a nuance of Libra energy into your New Moon cycle intentions to fully embrace the potential of this season.
If you haven’t yet formed your Libra season intentions using the Libra season guide, this Libra New Moon on October 2nd is your perfect opportunity for intention setting. Libra season calls for cultivating balance, honesty, and harmonious relationships. With Venus as Libra’s ruling planet, this New Moon is especially powerful for cherishing the beauty of life, focusing on adding more flow, ease, and enjoyment into your life, and spreading that optimistic energy around you as well.
As the October moon cycle begins, you are encouraged to set intentions that prepare you for the colder, darker months ahead. This is a time to reflect on how you can best align yourself with the season’s energies, both physically and spiritually. Consider how you can create balance and harmony in your life as you transition into this time of year. The themes of Libra season—softness, intellectual flow, honesty, and beauty—invite you to focus on bringing calmness and balance into your relationships and inner world.
This moon cycle also presents heightened opportunities for spiritual growth and connection. The supernatural energies that come with the darkening days offer a unique chance to deepen your spiritual practice, whether through meditation, journaling, or exploring esoteric topics. How can you attune to these mystical energies to enhance your personal growth?
Reflect on how you can create a peaceful and harmonious space for yourself, both internally and externally, as you move through this lunar phase.
Themes of the October Lunar Cycle
The October lunar cycle begins with the gentle influence of Libra, ushering in themes of balance, harmony, and inner calm. This is a time to soften and create flow in both your personal life and relationships. Libra’s intellectual and airy energy encourages you to cultivate beauty, both in your surroundings and within yourself, inviting you to reflect on the dualities in your life—between action and rest, between connection and solitude. Honesty and openness, particularly in relationships, are key focal points during this phase.
As the lunar cycle progresses, the energy deepens with the arrival of Scorpio. This brings in themes of shadow work, transformation, and emotional depth, creating a dynamic dance between light and shadow. Scorpio’s intensity invites you to explore your inner world, confront hidden truths, and embrace transformation. Together, the energies of Libra and Scorpio create a potent mix, asking you to balance the softness of Libra with the depth and intensity of Scorpio.
Energy of the October Lunar Cycle
In October we are invited to embrace the slower, yin-like energies that prepare us for the winter season. This is a deeply spiritual time, a period where the veil between worlds thins, bringing potent opportunities for spiritual insights and connections. Themes of nostalgia may arise, calling us to reflect on the past and honor loved ones who have passed, as well as the memories that shape our present.
This lunar cycle is one of contrasts—light and shadow, sorrow and joy, creation and destruction. October encourages us to experience life fully, to accept that all these emotions and states coexist, and through this duality, we find balance. There is transformative power available in this cycle, but it requires courage. Letting go of the old, facing tension, and embracing the unknown are essential for making space for new possibilities to emerge. Themes of creation and destruction are interwoven throughout the month, reminding us that life itself is cyclical and ever-changing, just as the transition from summer to autumn, and autumn to winter, reminds us of nature’s rhythms.
Spiritual connection with nature is heightened during this time. It’s a moment to honor the earth as she prepares for her rest, gathering strength for the renewal ahead. Shadow work becomes a central theme, inviting us to explore the darker aspects of ourselves and find growth in those spaces. There is beauty in the darkness, and this cycle asks us to confront it with an open heart.
The energy is magnetic and intuitive, pulling us toward new intentions and dreams. Pay attention to synchronicities, dreams, and intuitive cues—there is guidance to be found in the mysteries of this lunar phase. Whether through divination, telepathy, or honoring your spirit guides and ancestors, October’s energy offers a deep well of spiritual connection and insight.
October Lunar Cycle Rituals
In October, we prepare for the arrival of winter and the darker, quieter months ahead. This is a time to clear both physical and energetic spaces, allowing room for new intentions. You are invited to honor the shift in seasons by lighting some incense or burning sage, letting the cleansing smoke drift through your home and over your body. Use this moment to refresh your spiritual tools—your tarot cards, crystals, or other items you use for intuitive practices—so they are in tune with the transformative energy of the season.
October encourages deep reflection and a connection with both the seen and unseen. Incorporating grounding and spiritually enhancing elements into your rituals can help you navigate this highly intuitive time. Essential oils such as frankincense, cedarwood, myrrh, and patchouli are perfect for creating a sacred atmosphere. These oils will help you stay grounded, while also opening the door to spiritual insights. Diffuse them throughout your home, or add them to a bath to enhance the energy of your rituals.
This month invites you to embrace both the light and shadow sides of life. As we move into a time of introspection and transformation, consider slowing down and making space for shadow work. Ask yourself daily: How can I honor both my strengths and my weaknesses? What do I need to release in order to create space for the new? Journaling can be an incredibly powerful tool for exploring these questions, especially when paired with tarot or oracle cards to gain deeper insights into your inner world.
Connecting with nature remains essential during this lunar cycle, even as the weather cools and the days shorten. Take a moment each day to step outside and notice the changes around you—the falling leaves, the crispness in the air, the way the earth is preparing to rest. These moments of presence in nature can offer a grounding force as you move through the shifting energies of October.
Essential Oils for October
In October, we naturally yearn for some tranquility, balance and space for deep reflection. This is why these essential oils are excellent for those darkening October days, and empowering spiritual insights.
Frankincense
Frankincense is ideal for spiritual insights and grounding during this deeply reflective time. Known for its ability to deepen meditation and enhance spiritual connection, this oil helps create a sacred, tranquil space. Its calming and stabilizing properties also support the Libra themes of balance and inner harmony while aiding the Scorpio season’s exploration of emotional depth and shadow work. (Find your frankincense essential oil here.)
Patchouli
Patchouli resonates with the yin energy of the colder months and the transformative power of this lunar cycle. It is both grounding and introspective, ideal for shadow work and embracing the duality of life—light and shadow, creation and destruction. Patchouli’s rich, earthy aroma invites reflection and helps you stay rooted as you release the old and welcome the new, encouraging courage and transformation. (Find your patchouli essential oil here.)
Cedarwood
Cedarwood brings a deep, grounding energy that is perfect for creating a harmonious and balanced environment. This oil nurtures spiritual strength, making it a powerful companion as you prepare for winter and dive into the spiritual and intuitive themes of October. Cedarwood also offers protective energy, perfect for honoring ancestors and connecting with the unseen, while also fostering a sense of safety as you explore emotional depths. (Find your cedarwood essential oil here.)
Myrrh
Myrrh is ideal for connecting with the spiritual realm and honoring the cyclical nature of life. It is known for its ability to open pathways to higher consciousness and communication with spirit guides or ancestors. Myrrh also supports emotional healing and deep reflection, perfectly aligning with the Scorpio themes of transformation, shadow work, and finding beauty in the darker aspects of life. (Find your myrhh essential oil here.)
Add these essential oils into your rituals to foster a deeper connection with nature and your inner self. Blend them in a diffuser to create a harmonious, soothing environment or use them in your self-care routine to enhance relaxation and emotional balance.
Moon Phases and Their Meanings for October 2024
October 2: New Moon and Solar Eclipse in Libra
The New Moon is the perfect time for letting go of what is no longer needed and setting intentions for the new lunar cycle. Tune into your intuition and reflect on your inner needs and desires. Honor your emotions and sensations. This is a powerful time for transformative energy.
Themes: Intention setting and new beginnings.
Energy: With this moon phase in Libra, the energy is balanced, diplomatic and graceful.
Rituals: Intention setting, journaling, affirmations for manifestation, using essential oils or palo santo for cleansing energies, meditation on possibilities.
Focus: Keep your space calm and inspiring. Take time for reflection. Socialize only with people who support your intentions and lift your spirits.
October 10: First Quarter Moon in Capricorn
The First Quarter Moon is the ideal time for building momentum, getting active, and being assertive and curious about fulfilling your intentions. This is the time for a growth mindset and making decisions. During the First Quarter Moon phase, you receive energetic support from the Universe to connect with your passions.
Themes: Action, motivation, and commitment.
Energy: With this moon phase in Capricorn, the energy is ambitious, disciplined and resilient.
Rituals: Plan actions to fulfill your intentions. Take time for action. Charge up your energy with mindful movement. Use affirmations for trust and creativity.
Focus: Engage in creative activities. Open yourself up to new possibilities. Build and strengthen your social connections.
October 17: Full Moon in Aries
The Full Moon is the perfect time for profound insights and realizations about your life and the themes of the current season. This is also a time to celebrate how your intentions are manifesting. The Full Moon is a time to fully experience your emotions and embrace the high and passionate energy surrounding you. The lunar eclipse brings an especially powerful time for realizations, transformation, and healing.
Themes: Realizations, releasing, and celebration.
Energy: With this moon phase in Aries, the energy is assertive, bold and passionate.
Rituals: Gratitude journaling, celebrating achievements, taking time for play and enjoyment, charging your crystals and tools in the moonlight, feasting on nutritious food.
Focus: Gain insights and clarity. Face the truths. Focus on possibilities. Note opportunities for change. Pay attention to the messages your dreams may convey from your subconscious and unconscious.
October 24: Last Quarter Moon in Leo
The Last Quarter Moon phase is ideal for slowing down after the active First Quarter and Full Moon phases. Mindfully begin to soften and release the activeness of this moon cycle. This is a time to reflect on the past lunar cycle, noting what worked and what didn’t.
Themes: Surrender, letting go, and reflection.
Energy: With this moon phase in Leo, the energy is dramatic, playful and creative.
Rituals: Reflection, journaling, cleansing your energy with meditation and gentle movement such as yin yoga and nature walks, connecting with nature, detoxing and decluttering, affirmations for letting go.
Focus: Embrace slow living and softening. Take time for solitude and connecting with intuition. Allow surrender and recovery. Prepare for the next moon cycle by cleansing energies and spaces.
Celebrating Samhain and the Beginning of Scorpio Season
On October 23rd, we enter the depths of Scorpio season, a time that calls us to foster inner strength and resilience. Scorpio’s energy invites us to engage in shadow work—exploring the hidden parts of ourselves and preparing to release what no longer serves us. It’s a season of transformation, trust, and emotional depth, where mysteries take center stage and we are encouraged to embrace the unknown with courage and respect.
As we transition into Scorpio season, the celebration of Samhain also arrives, marking the start of winter and the closing chapter of the Wheel of the Year. Known as the Witches’ New Year, Samhain is the final celebration before the darkest months fully set in. This is a time to pause, reflect, and honor the cyclical nature of life. It’s a moment to acknowledge endings and prepare for new beginnings, much like the natural world around us, which is gathering its energy for the cold months ahead.
Samhain is deeply rooted in ancestral connections and the mysteries of life and death. It’s a time for fire rituals, where the warmth of the flames not only wards off the cold but also honors those who have passed. As the veil between worlds thins, Samhain offers a sacred opportunity to remember and reminisce about our ancestors and loved ones. Through quiet moments of reflection or through rituals that honor their spirits, we pay our respects and seek their guidance.
Offerings are a traditional part of Samhain, whether to spirits, nature, or our ancestors. These acts of reverence are often done in tranquil spaces, fostering a sense of connection and gratitude. As you prepare for winter, consider what offerings you can make—both physical and spiritual—to honor the cycles of life and the transitions unfolding in your own world.
Samhain also signifies the time to let go of the old and make way for the new. Much like Scorpio’s transformative energy, this celebration asks us to release what is no longer needed, trusting in the process of rebirth and renewal. Whether through personal rituals, fire ceremonies, or moments of stillness, Samhain invites us to embrace the mysteries of life and the power of transformation.
Wishing you a powerful and reflective transition into the darker season and a deeply meaningful Samhain,
Mimi 🌙
Stay in touch with seasonal changes, lunar phases and other important dates with La Mia Luna’s Cyclical Calendar. You can find the Cyclical Calendar here. 🍁
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