Full moon gathering at Laois lake going from strength to strength

A full moon gathering held once a month at the picturesque Derryounce Lake is proving hugely popular with yoga lovers and those seeking some quality time for themselves. 

Sinead Dempsey, a member of the Port Art Collective, started out this monthly tradition back in June 2022 after attending an event in Dublin and longed for something similar to be set up closer to home. 

Ahead of the next Fullmoon Midlands Gathering on Monday, July 22 Sinead has spoken to the Leinster Express/Laois Live about what's involved and the benefits of taking part. CONTINUE READING BELOW PHOTO

 "A few years ago, my friend Pamela and I attended a full moon healing circle in Killiney and loved it. The only downside was the long drive for a 30-minute gathering," said Sinead. 

"Then we thought, why not use Derryounce Lake, also known as Bog Beach? When we asked if we could organise a monthly event for yoga or meditation, they were thrilled and have been incredibly supportive of our meetups.

"Since June 2022, we have met monthly, except for a winter due to the cold and darkness.

"I am a people person, and enjoy meeting new people while getting out into nature. While I’m not a yoga instructor or healer, I spent over 20 years as a masseuse, so helping others has always been my passion. I got into this type of event as I am part of The Port Art Collective and we have run a good few events and festivals over the last few years. When I suggested the idea of a fullmoon gathering there was a lot of interest. I’ve noticed that charging for events can raise expectations and sometimes discourage participation. This is why I decided to keep our gatherings free, making them accessible to everyone, especially in these challenging times.

"Our gatherings are entirely volunteer-based, with no money exchanged. For the first event, I invited a few friends to meet at the lake under the full moon, around a fire, for some yoga. About 20 people showed up, and everyone loved it. Alice in Yogaland led a beautiful yoga session, and we stayed chatting for hours, buzzing with the joy of the full moon. Since then, we've continued the tradition. 

"The event wouldn't be possible without our amazing instructors. Over the last two years we have had some incredible people volunteering to do yoga, medication or chakra clearing. From Alice n Yoga Land, Aligned with Amanda, Elisa Caracalla, Eve Daly, Mary Ann, Yoga with Shina and Catriona Nurturing You & Baby Yoga."

At this month's gathering Sarah from Healing Yoga With Sarah will be delivering a yoga session while participants watch the sunset and see the full moon rise. CONTINUE READING BELOW PHOTO

"Sarah's classes are all about bringing the awareness back to ourselves, so we can heal, learn and love ourselves unconditionally. She has been a yoga student for over 20 years and a teacher since 2016," explained Sinead. 

"What to expect with Sarah's class will be a beautiful grounding yoga practice, you will leave feeling relaxed and restored. 
"With a combination of breath, movement, flexibility and strength. Yogis will explore the feeling of the postures instead of being concerned about the poses. It will be an embodied, deeply nourishing evening. Come as you are."

The next Fullmoon Midlands Gathering will take place on Monday, Jully 22 at 8pm at Derryounce Lake.