Full Moon Tarot Release Ritual: Let Go of What Must Go, Keep What Must Stay

The Full Moon: Peak and Release

If the new moon is for planting, the full moon is for harvest—and for clearing. During the full moon, the moon's energy is at its strongest, tides are highest, and people's emotions are often more turbulent. In spiritual traditions, the full moon is the time to "let what must go, go": releasing energy no longer needed, giving thanks for completed lessons, clearing space for the next cycle. The full moon typically falls about 14 days after the new moon—precisely the moment when your new moon intention has moved to "harvest or course correction." How are the seeds you planted doing?

Full Moon Tarot Release Ritual Steps

**Step 1: Gratitude review**. Reflect on what happened this month—even the difficult things brought learning. Write down 3 things you're grateful for (large or small).

**Step 2: Identify what to release**. Ask yourself: "What am I ready to let go of?" It might be a thought, a feeling, a certain aspect of a relationship, or an old habit. Write it on paper. **Step 3: Full Moon Tarot Spread** (see below).

**Step 4: Release ritual**. Using a candle, safely burn the paper (in a fireproof container). Watch it burn and say: "I am grateful for the learning you brought me. Now, I release you." If open flame isn't convenient, tear the paper into small pieces or dissolve it in water (write with a water-soluble pen on thin paper).

Full Moon Tarot Spread (4 Cards)

**Card 1: What completion does this full moon bring?** (What is reaching its completion point?); **Card 2: What am I most grateful for and ready to release?**; **Card 3: What insight or wisdom am I taking away from this month?**; **Card 4: What new space and possibilities are opening for next month?**

The full moon ritual is best done on the full moon night or the day before or after (when energy is strongest). If possible, do it under moonlight—let the moonlight fall on the cards. Paired with a new moon ritual, the full moon ritual forms a complete lunar cycle practice: each month's planting and harvesting, intention and release, growth and clearing. This is one of the most beautiful rhythmic ways to use tarot.