Moonbathing is the practice of exposing one’s self to the light of the moon in order to obtain its cooling lunar energy. It originates from Ayurveda, one of the world’s oldest healing systems, and is most effective when done between the new moon and the full moon.

What Does Your Moon Say About You?

Moonbathing is said to offer numerous benefits including helping to lower blood pressure, soothe rashes, hives and other inflammatory conditions, increase fertility, and relieve stress and anxiety. Starting in August 2020, Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit and Casa Velas in Mexico will offer a new moonbathing experience, inclusive of ancestral healing techniques and wellness-focused amenities.

At Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit, the meditation will focus on female emotions, beginning with a breathing guide by a spa therapist. During the private moonbathing ceremony, Florida Water (a highly aromatic cleansing water) will be spritzed. Drums and rattles will be played throughout the experience, offering sacred sounds. Décor includes flowers, symbolizing Mother Earth; herbs, such as cedar; organic tobacco, and candles. A cacao drink, known as the “medicine for the spirit” in Mayan culture, will be offered as well.

At Casa Velas, an adults-only boutique hotel and beach club in Puerto Vallarta, the moonbathing experience is similar. The main difference is the guided meditation focuses on male emotions, instead of female. Additionally, a popoxcomi (incense burner) will be used during the ceremony, burning sage, rosemary, and eucalyptus. Herbs, such as palo dulce and palo santo, which in Spanish means, “Holy Wood,” will be used as well. Other offerings include ionized water and organic tobacco.

Until you book a trip to come try the experiences out for yourself, Silvia Velasco, Spa Director of the resorts’ award-winning spas, shares techniques and tips for moonbathing at home:

• To follow the traditional ritual, fill a bowl with water and add basil, honey, and rose petals. Let it sit under the moonlight for 1 hour. After, take a sip of the water and pour the remaining into a drawn bath. 

• Meditate.

• Create calming and comfortable surroundings. Ideas include putting on tranquil music, lighting candles or incense, and using essential oils such as lavender and sandalwood.

• Drink a cup of herbal tea and head to sleep afterwards. 

Other options Velasco recommends for an at-home moon bath include laying down on a blanket under the moonlight, sitting beside a window exposing the skin to moonlight, or taking a walk under the moonlight for at least 30 minutes.

The Moonbathing Experience at Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit and Casa Velas costs $200 USD per person for up to 6 people. For reservations and more information, call 1-888-407-4869 or visit www.velasresorts.com. 

Kamala Kirk is a University of Southern California graduate and has been an editor/writer for more than a decade. She has written for E! Online, Total Beauty, TravelAge West, Malibu Times Magazine, and many more. She resides in Los Angeles and is a proud pug mom. Follow her on Instagram: @kamalakirk