Witchy Ways Hosts Women at Once in a Blue Moon Full Moon Circle

Witchy Ways Peterborough hosted a community of women for a full moon circle last night under the Sturgeon moon. Visitors were invited to tap into Grandmother Moons energy in a safe, authentic space, free of judgement.

Women in attendance were gifted a few crystals as well as flowers from River Bend Bouquets. Photo courtesy of Angela O’Grady

Witchy Ways was founded by Nicole Turco in January 2020 and Liz Shaughnessy-Rowe joined shortly after. Together they encourage individuals to claim their joy, use their gifts and own a life created by themselves.

The focus of Witchy Ways is crystals, healing, moon cycles, ceremonies and rituals, knowledge exchange, empowerment and reconnection with one’s self.

Written on Witchy Ways Instagram is “The word ‘witch’ was a way to demonize women in their power. There is no warts, flying on brooms or devil worship. Just a woman/man who heal with knowledge and wisdom.”

“One of the hardest things to know is that we are in control of our lives,” said Shaughnessy-Rowe.

Liz Shaughnessy-Rowe and Nicole Turco. Photo by Mary Zita Payne Photography.

A moon circle is hosted for women to honour and celebrate the different cycles of the moon, says Shaughnessy-Rowe. A new moon is a time to set intentions for the month ahead and a full moon is when one makes room for those upcoming intentions by releasing any feeling or practices that may be draining one’s energy.

“The moon is a feminine energy and as women our bodies are controlled by the moon, we have cycles,” she said. “That’s the idea behind the moon circle is, it’s all women and it’s a beautiful, safe space to work on yourself.”

The Full Moon Circle started with a tarot reading and introductions by Shaughnessy-Rowe and horoscopes written by her sister, Brooke Shaughnessy. Shelly Hope led the group in mediation before women were asked to write down anything they want to release.

While all of the women in attendance were there for different reasons and coming from different backgrounds, many found that they had written similar words. Lack of confidence, body shaming, fear of failure and the need to forgive ones self were among common themes shared.

“A lot of people feel uncomfortable being vulnerable, and you will be vulnerable but you’re also going to be supported by the women around you,” said Shaughnessy-Rowe before the event.

In small groups, women discussed what they had written and then burned with whispers of ‘and so it is’ around the circle.

To end the night each woman said thank you. Some said a simple thank you to Witchy Ways for hosting the event, and some thanking everyone in attendance for their acceptance and for making a space unlike any they had ever been a part of.

For updates on the next moon circle and re-caps of past moon circles visit Witchy Ways Instagram.

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