For a long time, I felt a pull towards the moon, a deep yearning to understand the feminine in a way that resonated authentically. Many approaches to feminine spirituality felt disconnected, missing something essential. While surrounded by inspiring women and engaging in informal gatherings, the structured “feminine work” felt lacking until I encountered the Moon Dance. There’s an undeniable mystique surrounding women who gather and dance under the full moon for four consecutive nights. This ancient practice, whether intentionally or simply by basking in the potent energy of the full moon, opens pathways to profound experiences.
The Moon Dance tradition emerged in the 1990s in Mexico. Indigenous Grandmothers deciphered and revitalized an ancient ceremony depicted in pre-Columbian Mexica Codex scriptures. These texts illustrated women dancing under the moonlight, engaging in prayer with tobacco. Drawing upon this rediscovered knowledge and the supportive framework of the Sun Dance structure, the first Moon Dance circle was established, marking the resurgence of a powerful feminine practice.
Intricately carved wooden doorway symbolizing the spiritual passage within the Moon Dance ceremony at Pachamama.
Today, Moon Dance circles flourish across North, Central, and South America. Guided by revered female elders, Grandmothers Malinali and Ana Itzpapalotl, these ceremonies are anchored by the rhythmic pulse of a central pow wow drum. Songs are sung in reverence to the Creator, the Moon, the Earth, and the elements, creating a sacred and secure space for healing, celebration, and remembrance. Within this circle, obsidian pipes are shared, stories are woven, visions are revealed, and empowerment and profound healing take place as mystical gateways are opened for the Moon Dancer and all participants.
Men play a vital supporting role in the Moon Dance. From outside the central circle, they maintain the sacred fire, prepare the sweat lodges for purification, and offer nourishment with tea and hot chocolate. This involvement creates a deeply meaningful and rewarding experience for everyone involved. PachaMama, as a community, has experienced significant direct and indirect benefits from this powerful feminine-centered practice.
Seven years ago, PachaMama expanded the circle to include men, evolving the Moon Dance into the “Dual Dance.” Now, all of PachaMama’s gatherings by the river embrace and participate in this celebration of life under the moon and stars. Children join in the dance and drumming, even taking part in leading sweat lodges. Witnessing the teachings, beauty, and transformative magic of both the Moon Dance and Dual Dance is consistently inspiring. These events beautifully unify the masculine and feminine, humanity and Earth, individuals and community, fostering a profound sense of interconnectedness between Earth and Sky, illuminating the path for every moon dancer and participant alike.
