Moon lodges are a part of the Strawberry Ceremony, a rite of passage for Wabanaki women. The Wabanaki calendar consists of 13 moons, with each moon corresponding to a full moon cycle of twenty-eight days. Each full moon has a different name, based on the abundant natural resources or significant seasonal events that occur at that time of year. This system was the primary way Wabanaki people tracked the passing of time and important annual events before the adoption of the Gregorian calendar.

Women participating in their Strawberry Ceremony enter their moon lodges during every full moon. Grandmother Moon regulates a woman’s moon time, or menstrual cycle, which represents the roles and responsibilities that come with being a woman. Moon time is a time to cleanse the mind, body, emotions, and spirit. 

A woman’s moon time is her most sacred and powerful time. Women are often excluded from sweat lodges and ceremonies during their moon time due to their intense spiritual power during menstruation. A woman’s moon time is a time of reflection; a time for women to take it easy and connect with themselves, think about their families, relatives, or anyone they feel needs help.

Traditionally, when a young woman had her first menstrual cycle, the women in her family would take her to a small lodge (moon lodge) where she would be close to nature. This closeness to nature during a woman’s moon time enhances her intuition and fosters strong dreams. The mother, grandmothers, and aunts of the family would give the young woman teachings about her role as a woman in the community. When we go into our moon lodges, we don’t use any electronics; we read, draw, or engage in any kind of cultural activity of our choice.

I’ve gone into my moon lodge for two moons so far. My moon lodge is a place of learning and growth. It's where I renew myself physically and spiritually. It feels like my sanctuary, a place where I can reflect and connect with my inner self.  Even though my moon time began many moons ago, I’m grateful to have the opportunity to now go through my Strawberry Ceremony, and I’m thrilled that youth today have the opportunity to participate when they are at that tender age. The teachings help one understand the meaning of moon time and to respect its sacredness. The knowledge gained fosters self-respect and respect for everything around us, as well as the confidence to navigate a positive path in life. I invite you to explore your heritage and discover how people in your culture celebrate a woman’s menstrual cycle.

https://kweksociety.org/traditional-teachings 

https://mushkiki.com/programs-services/moontime-and-grandmother-moon