The Cold Moon, full moon drumming in December

Although the Cold Moon is a common name throughout the northern hemisphere, its roots come from early paganism in Europe.

Among the Algonquin and Mohawk tribes of North America, it was also called the Cold Moon, but for different reasons. Their name came from the cold bright light that the moon cast in the sky. In December there is often no cloud cover, so the moon's light can appear very cold when it reflects off the frosty ground.

In some other cultures, the full moon in December is even associated with warmth. Among the Deboreans, the cold moon is associated with being in a cozy house by a crackling fireplace, surrounded not only by physical warmth but also by the warmth of family and friends. Similarly, the Wishram tribe called the December full moon the Winter House Moon.

In the darkest days, we celebrate the light

As the winter solstice approaches, the chill in the air grows stronger and winter's frosty grip tightens. The days become shorter and shorter, and the nights are at their longest and darkest. No wonder, then, that the full moon in December is sometimes referred to as the moon of the long night.

In honor of the ancient European festival celebrating the return of the sun, heralded by the longest night of the year, the December full moon is also called the moon before Yule. According to pagan beliefs, this is the perfect time to open your home and bring warmth to those you love, as well as those most exposed to the cold of winter. It was encouraged to welcome everyone into your home.

Other names from North America that relate to cold and snow are Drift Clearing Moon and Frost Exploding Trees Moon (Cree), Jumping Trees Moon (Oglala), Hoarfrost Moon (Cree), Snow Moon (Haida, Cherokee) and Winter Maker Moon (Western Abenaki).

(The information here comes from: moongiant.com, factsite.com, almanac.com, and timeanddate.com)

Full moon drumming as a ritual

Since 1997, we at feeltone have been drumming for 2.5 - 3 hours every month during the full moon. Either outside by the campfire or inside. Always in a circle and connected to the time quality of the moon.

For us, this is like meditation, which is also practiced worldwide. The purpose of both is similar: it's about pausing and stopping individuality for a moment. We create our realities through our thinking and get caught up in them all too quickly. That's why it's good to stop thinking from time to time. In this way, the brain waves experience new paths and solutions. Afterwards, we are refreshed, calmer and better connected.

Taking part is very simple

Take whatever instruments you can find (including your voice!) and simply make noises - either alone or with friends. It doesn't matter how well you play - all you need to do is create a groove and get into the rhythm of the world's heartbeat.

We are touched by the stories of many of you who have begun to participate in this monthly global community. Feel free to write a comment below this post about what your ritual was like.

Build your own ritual drum

If you want to unleash the power of your own drum, you can build and consecrate your own ritual drum with Martina in the drum making course. Or you can order a drum kit from our store and build your own drum at home.