Moon of Plenty

In yogic and tantric traditions, Lakshmi embodies abundance in every dimension of life from material prosperity to inner radiance, flourishing relationships and ultimately, a deep sense of fullness and fulfillment in our lives. This week (specifically today and tomorrow) is known as Sharad Purnima — the full moon night in the Hindu month of Ashwin where light of the moon is believed to be especially radiant and potent. On this night, we welcome the descent of Goddess Lakshmi and spiritually, a night when the moon’s glow illuminates the inner self, nurtures clarity, and enhances the flow of blessings.

Together we will practice the day after this magnificent event to honor Goddess Lakshmi and this sacred time in this lineage. We use the waning gibbous lunar phase, as always, as a time for reflection, integration, and gentle release. As we practice on wednesday, the moon wiill still carry the fullness of Sharad Purnima’s energy through which we can attune to, ponder and reflect on the qualities the manifestation Lakshmi embodies.

Hindu deities can be seen as an effective way for the human mind to focus on particular qualities of the divine and contemplate often ineffable phenomenon of the mystery of life. Lakshmi, for example, embodies abundance, beauty, and generosity. This energy (embodied in this case through her form and legend) flows through every layer of life, radiating abundance in wealth, inner light, love, and the fullness of being.