Mid-Autumn Festival is one of the most joyful nights in the Chinese calendar, but like many Chinese festivals, it comes with a few long-held traditions. Because the full moon is associated with peak Yin energy (feminine, passive and cool), specific practices were set in place to maintain balance and protect the family and home.
To enjoy good fortune and a good harvest for the coming year, here are 9 things you should observe during Mid-Autumn Festival.
1. DO NOT POINT DIRECTLY AT THE MOON
Pointing at the moon is traditionally considered disrespectful to the moon goddess, Chang’e and other lunar deities. Elders would warn that doing so invites punishment, such as a cut behind the ear. Whether or not you take the warning literally, the custom teaches children to approach the moon with reverence.
2. WOMEN SHOULD LEAD MOON WORSHIP
According to the ancient principle “Men do not worship the moon, women do not worship the Kitchen God”, the moon is an absolute Yin entity. Men, who carry primarily Yang energy, are advised to let the matriarch or women of the household lead the moon offerings.
3. KEEP THE OFFERINGS WHOLE & ROUND
This entire festival centres on Tuan Yuan (roundness and completion). Serving cracked mooncakes, square pastries or overly ripe fruits is believed to invite division and cause household conflicts. Choose unblemished, round fruits and present mooncakes whole before cutting them for the family.
4. KEEP YOUR FOREHEAD UNCOVERED
In traditional face reading, the forehead is the “Palace of Light” or Ming Tang, an important region for receiving auspicious energy. Sweep your hair back when gazing at the moon to receive uninterrupted lunar light chi.
5. STAY INDOORS IF YOU ARE UNWELL
Because the mid-autumn full moon radiates intense Yin energy, individuals recovering from illness or those experiencing severe heartbreak or job loss should avoid prolonged late night moon-gazing as it is believed that it can lower your personal vitality further and make you more vulnerable to spiritual disturbances.
6. AVOID NIGHT SWIMMING IN THE SEA
The moon’s gravitational pull creates high tides during this period. Culturally, swimming late at night when the full moon is reflected on the open waters is also considered disrespectful to the water spirits and hence, deemed dangerous.
7. AVOID STANDING UNDER DENSE TREES
The shadows under thick foliage are known in feng shui as gathering places for Yin energy. Thick foliage also blocks the moonlight and traps damp, stagnant chi. If you plan to admire the moon outdoors, choose a clear, comfortable, well-lit space.
8. ALWAYS SHARE YOUR MOONCAKES
A mooncake is meant to be divided and shared. If family members are far away, share it with your friends, neighbours or colleagues!
9. TREAT RABBITS WITH SPECIAL CARE
This custom was set in honour of the Jade Rabbit who resides on the moon alongside Chang’e. Mistreating rabbits during Mid-Autumn festival is considered a direct offense to the lunar deities, bringing bad luck and obstacles.
This year, Mid-Autumn Festival falls on September 25th. As you gather with loved ones to share mooncakes, walk with lanterns and admire the full moon, keep these customs in mind. This will bring harmony into the home and good fortune onto your side.
