Phases of the Moon
 

New Moon (Intention, Emergence)

This is a moment in the lunar cycle where the Moon and Sun are conjunct and in the same sign. We associate the New Moon with one day in the month, though its energy carries a couple of days before and after it exacts. The New Moon represents a time of new beginnings, fresh starts, and the opportunity to set intentions by planting a new seed for the coming lunar cycle. It carries the energy of potential, which makes it an ideal time for goal-setting, initiating projects, and manifesting desires.


Waxing Crescent Moon (Effort, Struggle)

In the Waxing Crescent phase, the Moon is growing brighter (aka waxing), symbolizing growth and intentionality. Its energy unfolds within the week after the New Moon, representing the initial stages of a lunar cycle when momentum begins to build. This phase is when the seed takes root, when the vision takes shape. Its the time to take action toward our goals, to lay the foundations.


First Quarter Moon (Rooted and Determined)
On this day, the Moon squares the Sun. The Moon is exactly half illuminated and half dark. A moment to acknowledge and confront any challenges or obstacles that have arisen during the Waxing Crescent Moon. We are in an energy of action with intentionality. This is a time for assertiveness and determination, urging us be proactive toward our goals. The key is in balancing our ambition and intuitive/emotional insight, as the square (aka tension) between the Sun and Moon can bring about moments of clarity and conflict.

Waxing Gibbous Moon (Aligned Action)

This is the phase (or week) that comes right after the First Quarter Moon, when the Moon is more than half illuminated. In the planting cycle, this is when the bud begins to form, carrying within it the promise of the flower. During this phase, we are motivated to accomplish our goals, with an analytical and detailed mind. We are finding a way through the obstacles, even if it means pivoting or changing the structure of things. This is a great time to be open to new approaches and ideas. This is the final push to do what we can towards our intention.

Full Moon (Illumination and Realignment)

On this day, the Moon and Sun are in opposition to each other, amplifying heightened emotions, clarity, with the potential for significant revelations. It is a time to reassess what hasn’t been working or serving our greatest good (whether towards our intention or otherwise), and releasing it. It’s a time to refine the plan based on the insights that this lunation brings. Maybe there are things that need to change (e.g. our perspective or external circumstances) to bring a necessary realignment towards what holds meaning, honors your values and speaks to your heart.


Disseminating or Waning Gibbous Moon (Connection and Sharing)

This is the phase (or week) that comes right after the Full Moon, lasting for a week. This is when we begin to see the fruits of our labor. This is a great time to share knowledge, insights, and experiences that we gained thus far in the lunar cycle, and especially during the Full Moon. It holds the energy of integration, collaboration, and nurturing connections, making it an ideal time for networking, writing, and engaging in discussions that foster growth and understanding.


Last Quarter Moon (Digested and Integrated)

On this day, the Moon squares the Sun a second time in the lunar cycle- the Moon is now three-quarters of the way through its cycle. This is not a great time for initiating new things, but rather, it is an important time for reflection and introspection. We are beginning the process of letting go of what no longer serves us, making space for new beginnings as the cycle approaches the New Moon. Taking time to evaluate progress, reassess goals, and integrate lessons during the previous phases of this lunar cycle is key. It is a powerful time for completion and emotional clarity.

Waning Crescent Moon or Balsamic Moon (Release and Heal)

This is the final week of the lunar cycle, before the New Moon. The Waning Crescent Moon is an opportune time for introspection with the intention to release. We are finding closure and healing at this time. We are learning from what we experienced and felt to plant aligned seeds for the upcoming lunar cycle. The last 2 days before the New Moon is an especially sacred time for rest, for healing and for spiritual connection.


*Void of Course

The Void of Course Moon (V/C) is a period of time (usually a few hours), when the Moon makes no aspects (sacred angled) to any other celestial bodies, as it “wanders” from one sign to the next. This is a time which poses challenges or yields unfavorable results. It’s not a great time to make important decisions.