Planting My Moon: Returning My Blood to Mother Earth
- danielathelifeiwan
- Aug 27
- 3 min read
An Ancient Ritual Returning to Modern Women
There is a rhythm within us that echoes the rhythm of the Earth. Every month, when I bleed, I am reminded that my body is part of something larger, a cycle as old as time itself.
For so long, menstruation has been wrapped in silence and shame. Many of us grew up hiding pads in our sleeves, apologizing for something that was never wrong. Yet when I began my own journey of planting my moon, returning menstrual blood to the soil, I discovered a practice that feels both ancient and deeply healing.
Why Do Women Plant Their Moon?
At its heart, moon planting is about reciprocity with the Earth. Our blood carries life-giving nutrients, iron, stem cells, and minerals that our bodies release each cycle. Rather than discarding it, many women feel called to return this essence to the soil, to feed the trees, flowers, or gardens that in turn feed us.
In many traditional cultures, menstrual blood was seen as sacred. Historical accounts and anthropological research point to communities where women would gather in “moon lodges” or sacred huts, resting together and offering their blood back to the earth as a way to honor fertility, renewal, and the cycles of nature. While modern science is only beginning to study these practices, the symbolism remains powerful: what is shed is not waste — it is medicine, a gift.
What Changes Within Us?
When I practice moon planting, I feel a shift.
It’s not just physical; it’s emotional and spiritual.
A sense of release: Pouring my moon blood into the soil feels like letting go of what no longer serves me.
Connection to lineage: I feel my ancestors close, as if I am part of a river of women who have honored this rhythm for centuries.
Deep grounding: Placing my offering at the roots of the tree where my placenta was buried reminds me of my own roots, my place in the cycles of life and death, growth and renewal.
Self-love: Instead of hiding, I am honoring. Instead of shame, I feel reverence.
Every cycle becomes a ritual of coming home to myself.
“Can I Use Blood From a Plastic Pad?”
This is a question I often receive, and the answer is: no, querida, it’s not recommended. Most disposable pads and tampons are made with plastics, synthetic fibers, and chemicals like dioxins, fragrances, and absorbent gels.
Scientific research has shown that some of these substances, such as dioxins and certain phthalates, can act as endocrine disruptors, interfering with our hormones and, in some cases, being linked to reproductive challenges, immune issues, and even certain cancers.¹
These chemicals are not only concerning for our own bodies, but also for the earth. When we bury used disposable pads, we’re not just returning blood, we may also be leaching plastics, bleach residues, and other toxins into the soil and water.
Instead, if you feel called to give your moon blood back to the Earth, consider using a menstrual cup or a cloth pad. With a cup, you can safely collect your blood, dilute it with water, and pour it at the roots of a tree, a garden, or even into a potted plant. This way, what you are offering is pure and nourishing, free from chemicals that could harm the soil.
“Planting the moon” is more than a ritual, it’s a reminder that our cycles are not a burden, but a source of power. Every time we return our blood to the Earth, we participate in an ancient exchange: giving back what we no longer need, and trusting that new life will emerge.
To me, this practice has been a way of softening into myself, honoring my body, and finding belonging in the great web of life.
And if you’d like to go deeper, to learn about safe herbs, guided rituals, and ways to integrate womb wisdom into your daily life, I’ve created a Yoni Steaming Course with love, care, and the stories of so many women who’ve walked this path before you.
With love & devotion,
Dani
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