The Hunter’s Moon, typically occurring in October, marks the time when the harvest is complete, and focus turns to preparing for winter. Named for the time when game was hunted and stored, this moon is associated with protection, preparation, and banishing unwanted influences. For witches, the Hunter’s Moon provides potent energy for clearing away what no longer serves us, reinforcing boundaries, and creating strong protective barriers as we ready ourselves for the winter months.

During the Hunter’s Moon, we honour this transitional period by working on spells that release negativity, protect what we hold dear, and make space for fresh beginnings.

Magical Properties of the Hunter’s Moon

The Hunter’s Moon symbolises preparation, protection, and banishing. This moon’s energy is ideal for clearing away lingering negativity, reinforcing protective boundaries, and ensuring we are spiritually secure for the months ahead. It’s a powerful time to let go of toxic influences, secure our personal space, and call on energies that will keep us and our homes safe.

Here are some spells to help you connect with the themes of protection, banishing, and preparation that the Hunter’s Moon brings.

1. Banishing Negativity Spell

Purpose: To remove unwanted energies or influences from your life.

You’ll Need:

• A black candle (for banishing)
• A small bowl of water with a pinch of salt (for purification)
• A dried rosemary sprig or sage leaf

Instructions:

1. Light the candle, visualising any negativity being drawn out of your space and into the flame.
2. Place the rosemary or sage in the water, focusing on your intention to purify and cleanse.
3. Say: “Hunter’s Moon, I call upon your light, banish all shadows, and clear my sight.”
4. Allow the candle to burn for a while, then snuff it out. Discard the water outside, symbolising the release of negativity.

2. Protection Charm Bag

Purpose: To create a protective charm to keep your energy secure and safe.

You’ll Need:

• A small black or dark blue pouch
• A clove of garlic or piece of ginger root (for protection)
• A sprig of rosemary or bay leaf (for strength)
• A piece of obsidian or black tourmaline crystal (for shielding)

Instructions:

1. Place the garlic or ginger, rosemary, and crystal in the pouch, holding your intention for protection.
2. Say: “Hunter’s Moon, protect and defend, may I be safe from now to the end.”
3. Carry the charm with you or place it in your home to create a lasting protective barrier.

3. Winter Preparation Spell

Purpose: To prepare your mind, body, and spirit for the winter months.

You’ll Need:

• A white candle (for clarity and focus)
• A bay leaf (for strength)
• A small container of dried rosemary and sage (for resilience)

Instructions:

1. Light the candle and focus on the months ahead, setting intentions for strength and preparation.
2. Place the bay leaf with the rosemary and sage, saying: “Hunter’s Moon, as seasons turn, grant me strength and wisdom to weather and learn.”
3. Carry the bay leaf with you or keep it on your altar as a reminder of your resolve for the coming months.

4. Energy Cleansing Ritual

Purpose: To clear away stagnant or negative energies and create a fresh start.

You’ll Need:

• A bundle of sage or cedar (for cleansing)
• A small bell or chime (to raise energy)
• A bowl of salt (for grounding)

Instructions:

1. Light the sage or cedar and walk through your space, letting the smoke cleanse each area.
2. Ring the bell in each room, focusing on removing any stagnant or negative energy.
3. Sprinkle salt at the threshold of your home to seal in positive energy, saying: “Hunter’s Moon, cleanse and clear, protect this space and all I hold dear.”

5. Release and Reset Spell

Purpose: To let go of anything that no longer serves you, creating space for the new.

You’ll Need:

• A piece of paper and pen
• A fire-safe bowl or dish
• A black candle (for release)

Instructions:

1. Write down anything you wish to let go of—habits, thoughts, or influences.
2. Light the candle and hold the paper, focusing on your intention to release.
3. Say: “Hunter’s Moon, help me release what I no longer need. With gratitude, I make space for peace.”
4. Burn the paper in the bowl, letting the ashes cool before returning them to the earth.

Final Thoughts

The Hunter’s Moon reminds us that the end of a cycle is near and preparation is key as we look toward winter. Use this time to let go of what no longer serves you, protect what is precious, and ready yourself for the colder months ahead. By working with the themes of the Hunter’s Moon, you create a foundation of security and gratitude as you step into the next chapter.

Stay connected each month for more Full Moon insights, celebrating the unique energy and magic each moon brings.

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