Episode Details

In this meditation, I turn to the moon as an ancient image of the contemplative life.

Across many meditation traditions, the changing phases of the moon have been used as a symbol of our own inner experience. The moon grows towards fullness, gradually fades, disappears and then begins again.

Our meditation practice can move through similar phases.

There are times when awareness feels clear, full and bright. At other times, we may experience distraction, tiredness, uncertainty or even a sense that our practice has disappeared altogether.

The moon reminds us that none of these phases is permanent.

We begin by settling into the body and breath before recalling the last time we noticed the moon. From there, we allow its different phases to become images of growth, fullness, decline and renewal within our own lives.

In the Franciscan tradition, the moon is affectionately called Sister Moon, accompanying us through the darkness with reflected light.

This meditation offers a gentle practice of patience, perseverance and acceptance, reminding us to continue through every phase and trust that light will return.

Chapters:

00:00 – Introduction: The moon as an image of meditation

01:57 – Opening bell

02:30 – Settling through the senses

03:10 – Resting in the breath

04:20 – Remembering the moon

05:29 – Learning from its changing phases

06:00 – Seasons of growth and decline

06:25 – Accepting the phase you are in

06:59 – Visualising the cycle of the moon

07:26 – The changing phases of meditation

08:10 – Resting beneath the night sky

08:59 – Letting the image fade

09:19 – Carrying the moon’s lesson forward

09:45 – Returning from meditation

09:55 – Closing bell

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