The mourning moon, full moon drumming in November

With the changing of the seasons, the full moon in November marks the beginning of the end. In many cultures, the full moon in November is closely associated with death and loss, both literally and symbolically. The Celts, for example, called it the reed moon and compared the plaintive music of the wind instruments to the eerie sounds of spirits being drawn into the underworld. And not without reason - the full mourning moon marks a dangerous time of year when people can easily end up in the underworld with a single misstep.

For the "heathens" (pagans or polytheists), the final phase of their winter preparations involves the very important process of "mourning". After a whole year of accumulating many possessions, the Mourning Moon is the perfect time to let go of old unnecessary things and mourn them at the same time. Practicing Pagans can perform a ritual under the moonlight where they write down the things they want to get rid of and ask their goddess for help in removing unwanted burdens.

Full moon in November also known as the Beaver Moon.

In North America, it was vital for the Native Americans and American colonists to make warm winter clothing. This is why the full moon in November is also known as the Beaver Moon. During this month, beavers are very active and busy building dams, so this was a good time to hunt them to use their fur for warm clothing.

In reference to the change of seasons in November, this moon is called the Frost Moon by the Cree and Assiniboine and the Freeze Moon by the Anishinaabe - for good reason, as winter is just around the corner.

(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 adrum kit from our store and build your own drum at home.