This past weekend marked what is often referred to as the Flower Moon, the full moon that occurred on May 3 of this year and that occurs every year on varying days in May.  The fifth full moon of this year marks circumstance such as when the last freeze has passed and the ground is fertile again, and is also referred to as the Milk Moon, or Hare Moon. This moon brings energy both intense and awakening—pay attention to the ways your body and soul react to this energy and take time to rejuvenate and honor yourself.

Stone of the week

Moonstone

Moonstone is a sodium potassium aluminium silicate found in southern Asia, Australia, Scandinavia, the U.S. and some countries in southeast Africa. This a flashy, milky-white stone known for its shine and  potency during full moons. Wearing a piece of moonstone on your body during the full moon will enhance its energies which are feminine, passionate and reflective. Legends of moonstone often involve connections to lunar deities, astrology and love.

Peaceful Physicality

Butterfly

I am reintroducing one of my favorite stretching practices for getting grounded while opening the chest and hips. Give yourself at least five minutes in a relatively quiet environment to truly relax in this Yogic position.

1.) Lay on your back on a flat surface such as a carpeted floor. If needed, a small pvaaillow under your head may be used to support your neck and align your spine—but not so much that your head is lifted above your chest.

2.) Keeping your knees together, bend them so that your feet are planted parallel on the ground.

3.) Rest your arms slightly outward from your sides, palms upward, feel your chest open.

4.) Gently open your knees outward like butterfly wings, press the soles of your feet together and allow the natural force of gravity pull your knees closer to the ground.

5.) Stay in this position, focus on your breathing and on each exhale, press your knees further down, opening your hips.

6.) Relax here for as long as you like, feel your chest and hips stretch and open, releasing the day’s built up tension.

7.) When you feel you are finished, slowly relieve yourself the position and thank yourself for taking time to take care of your body and engage your mind in healthy relaxation.

Request for feedback—Friends! I would love to hear your feedback on the Ethereal Corner. What is most useful or interesting for you? What could this column do without? I want to be a resource to you and care about your thoughts on my content. Email me with questions, comments or concerns at gfavazza01@hamline.edu