Each month the moon will go through different phases. This depends on the amount of surface that is exposed to the sunlight. You can admire a full moon when it is completely illuminated by the sun. With a waxing moon, only the right side of the moon is illuminated.
In ancient times, the moon was a mystical energy that people knew very little about. Hence, you can still read a lot about myths and legends about this bright nocturnal sphere. An example of this was the idea that a full moon made people a little confused. It was said that when there was a full moon, all the insane people would emerge, which is where the term "lunatic," or "crazy" in English comes from.
Why are the phases of the moon tracked in some religions?
The lunar cycle is an important part of the practice of the doctrine for many pagan religions, such as Wicca. The moon is seen as the goddess, with the sun being the god. Each of the three main phases of the moon is attributed to a particular phase in the life of the goddess. This is called the "Triple Goddess" and represents the following things;
- full moon, also known as the girl
- waning moon, or the mother
- crescent moon, or also called the old woman
These three stages represent birth, life and death. This meaning reminds us that everything in our world has a beginning, a middle, and an end.
Why would the moon affect us?
We already know that the Moon is an essential part of our solar system and keeps Earth's balance in check. The moon's gravity affects ebb and flow and so we can assume it has some kind of effect on our physical selves. Can we also be affected by the moon?
In a more spiritual sense, the lunar cycle is the relationship between the sun and the moon, the goddess and the god. For example, a full moon is seen as more powerful because the full light of the god illuminates the goddess and shines on us. It is a combination of two of the strongest forces in the world. As the light fades, so does its intense pull, until the new moon rolls around and we rest, recharge, and start over.
What do the different moon phases mean?
If we talk about the lunar cycle, there are eight main phases, these are:
- The New Moon
- The waxing crescent moon
- The first fifteen minutes
- The crescent moon
- The full moon
- The waning moon
- The last quarter
- The waning, crescent moon
The cycle begins with the dark, new moon moving slowly in the waxing moon, reaching its full strength during the full moon, and slowly fading through the waning moon and back into a new moon. These phases have different meanings and energies that we can use and we are going to look at how we can use all of them below.
The New Moon
The new moon cannot be seen as the sun is behind the moon and therefore illuminates the side away from the earth. This is also the start of a new lunar cycle and takes place once a month.
The new moon is the best for new beginnings and resolutions for the month ahead. It's the beginning of a whole new lunar cycle, so it's the perfect time to make plans and decide what you want to achieve in the next 29 days.
Keywords: intention, new beginning, new start
The waxing crescent moon
The crescent moon is seen as a crescent moon in the sky, illuminated on the right as the sun slowly begins to move from its place behind the moon. This moon phase is the first sign that energy is building and in a few days the moon will be at full power.
As the power of the moon slowly increases during this phase, it is always a good time to work on things like your confidence, compassion, and self-confidence. Build yourself up and really make plans to achieve your goals.
Keywords: self-confidence, self-confidence, planning
The first fifteen minutes
Finally the whole right side of the moon is lit up and we can see a bright crescent moon in the sky. The sun is now side by side with the moon and is at half power.
Now is a good time to reflect and take a break, enjoy what you've been working on so far, and celebrate your achievements. This is also a great time to think about how you want to celebrate the full moon and prepare yourself for some serious action.
Keywords: reflection, pause, self-esteem
The crescent moon
The moon in this phase leaves only a slippery dark moon invisible. It's a small step from the full moon.
We are only one phase away from the full moon and it is time to sharpen our intentions, goals and actions. Make sure you observe all the details and pay attention to what is happening both externally and internally.
Keywords: tightening, mindfulness, action
The full moon
The moon is at its full power and we can tap into its energy to help us manifest or understand our problems.
This phase is great for manifesting and adding extra power to your intentions. This time is perfect for rituals and spells as it is the most powerful time of the month. It's a great time for that too meditate and the charging of crystals and the cleaning of tarot cards.
Keywords: manifestation, inner work, divination
The waning moon
The waning moon marks the waning of the force. The sun moves away and takes its light with it, creating a shadow on the right.
This is a time to really turn in and evaluate what has happened in the past few days. think about your full moon ritual or meditation and adjust your intentions and goals for the rest of the month.
Keywords: assess, evaluate
The last quarter
The moon in the last quarter will illuminate on the left, indicating that the moon is now back at half power and fading.
The moon in the last quarter is the perfect time to really let go of anything that is holding you back or causing negativity in your life. These could be things like self-limiting beliefs, fear, or even just an idea that is stuck in your head but cannot manifest. Whatever no longer serves you, let it go.
Keywords: letting go, letting go, cleaning
The waning, crescent moon
The power of this moon is almost over, with only a small left half moon visible in the night sky. It is almost time for a new moon and a new beginning.
Take a deep breath and surrender to whatever happened and everything that you have no control over. If you haven't achieved the goal you set at the beginning of the cycle, that's fine! Take a deep breath and surrender to the will of the universe. Soon you'll have the chance to dust yourself off and pick up to try again.
Keywords: surrender, self-friendliness, compassion
