The Cold Moon
December’s Quiet Invitation to Close, Breathe and Begin Anew.
As winter gently settles in, the nights grow longer and the air turns crisp. On Thursday 4 December 2025, we meet the final full moon of the year, the Cold Moon.
This moon arrives as the year begins to draw to a close, bringing with it a soft, steady invitation to pause. It asks us to reflect on what has been, to loosen our grip on what we no longer need, and to make space for stillness. In many ways, it mirrors the body’s own wisdom: slowing down, conserving energy and preparing to begin again.
Why it is called the Cold Moon
This full moon, traditionally seen in December, takes its name from the deepening chill of the season. It marks the moment when the nights stretch longest and the cold begins to settle in. Some cultures also call it the Long Night Moon, a beautiful reminder that even when the darkness deepens, there is still light to be found.
The energy of this lunar moment
The Cold Moon is a time of reflection, release and renewal. It invites us to exhale the year behind us and come back into balance. As the final full moon of the lunar cycle, it brings a feeling of closure and quiet integration. Energetically, this is not a time for striving or pushing forwards, but for softening into rest. When we allow ourselves to slow down, the nervous system settles, the breath deepens, and clarity has space to rise naturally.
This is exactly what somatic movement helps us to explore: tuning into the body’s own rhythm and using gentle, mindful motion to restore connection, calm and flow.
What you might feel or experience
🌕A need to slow down: tiredness, tension or a pull to rest more deeply.
🌕Emotional release: old stories or habits surfacing so they can finally be let go.
🌕A quiet spark: a sense of peace, gratitude or readiness for the year ahead.
These sensations are all part of the body’s natural way of processing. Instead of resisting them, you can let them move through you with awareness through breathwork, gentle stretching, or by simply sitting still and noticing what is present.
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A simple Cold Moon ritual for the body and mind
Find a calm, cosy space. Dim the lights and sit comfortably.
Begin by noticing your breath. Feel the rise and fall of your chest and the weight of your body being supported.
Gently sway or circle your shoulders, hips or wrists, allowing small movements that help to release built-up energy.
Ask yourself: “What am I ready to let go of?” and “What do I want to bring into the new year?”
Light a candle, take a slow, full breath out, and imagine releasing what no longer serves you.
Close your eyes and place a hand on your heart. Feel the warmth there. Let it remind you that you are safe to rest.
The Cold Moon is not about endings for the sake of loss. It is about creating space in your body, your breath and your life for what is next. As we move towards the turning of the year, give yourself permission to soften and be still. This is where renewal begins.
If you are craving a deeper exhale before the year closes, join me for The Winter Solstice Immersion Retreat. A workshop designed to help you release the weight of the year and reconnect with your body’s natural rhythm. December 21st - Whaley Bridge. For full details follow the link bellow.
Let this Cold Moon guide you back to your body, your breath and your own quiet strength.