The cycle of the moon is divided into 8 recognised phases and it takes approximately 29.5 days to complete one cycle (from New Moon to New Moon). The Moon is a powerful energy and as it flows through its cycle it controls tides, rain, water and the seasons.
The Moon is associated with feminine energy and psychic abilities. It has always been a strong symbol of the feminine divinity, and there are lots of moon goddesses within many different paths, beliefs and cultures.
It represents the realm between our conscious and unconscious selves. We are all deeply connected to the moon, it can affect our moods, our emotions and our perceptions. However, in this busy chaotic modern world we often forget to connect to the natural rhythm and cycles of the Moon and the natural world.
When we pay attention to the Phases of the Moon it can help us to track our moods and recognise patterns in our life. The moon reminds us that we too are constantly going through different phases.
When we work with the moon we are going with the flow of the cycles not against them. We can work with its energies to help us plan spell work, rituals or even our everyday life and mundane tasks and chores. We can use its energies to help us with our monthly planning, and events. For example, if we know we always feel overwhelmed and experience headaches, as I do, during the Full Moon phase we can avoid planning anything major during the full moon.
The Eight Phases of the Moon
First Phase - The New Moon When the first tiniest slither of the Moon is visible. Associated with new beginnings, fresh starts, new ideas and renewed energy. Magick is directed towards change and new opportunities. It is a good time to start something new, set goals and set intentions. Focus on what you want to manifest during the current moon cycle.
Second Phase - Waxing Crescent Bigger than a slither but not yet a Half Moon. Energy is growing and expanding. Associated with attraction, growth and increase of all sorts. Magick directed towards attraction, growth and increase. It’s a good time to focus on personal growth and self-improvement.
Third Phase - First Quarter or Waxing Quarter (Half Moon) Half of the moon is illuminated and it is a quarter of the way through the lunar cycle. Associated with decision making and strength. Magick directed towards restoring balance or overcoming challenges. Good time to evaluate how things are going and make any adjustments that may be needed.
Forth Phase - Waxing Gibbous Over half of the moon is illuminated as it makes its way towards the full moon. Energy can feel quite intense as it gets closer to the full moon. Associated with practice, refinement and development. Magick directed towards strengthening what you have. It’s a good time to complete projects, put in that last push.
Fifth Phase - Full Moon The moon is fully illuminated and at the peak of its power. Energies and emotions are often heightened. Intuition is strong. Associated with completion, healing, empowerment. Magick directed towards any purpose. Good time to celebrate your achievements, to charge crystals, jewellery and altar tools. To perform divination.
Sixth Phase - Waning Gibbous Illumination of the moon starts to reduce, moon appears to be shrinking. Energy begins to decrease. Associated with gratitude, giving thanks and release. Magick directed at releasing. Good time to release bad habits, grudges or unhealthy relationships
Seventh Phase - Third Quarter or Waning Quarter (Half Moon) Quarter of the way towards a New Moon. Associated with forgiveness and decreasing unwanted energies. Magick directed at decreasing. Good time to pause and reflect on how your intentions and goals are progressing. Good time to remove any obstacles
Eight Phase - Waning Crescent Less than a quarter of moon visible. Waning energy is at its strongest. Associated with surrender, reflection, cleansing and banishing. Magick directed at cleansing and banishing. Good time for cleansing your energy, the energy of your home or space.
Ninth Phase - Dark moon It isn’t traditionally recognised as having its own phase and is usually incorporated into the New Moon phase, but I am adding it as an extra phase as I feel it has an energy all of its own. I feel it is a phase of rest and restoration. Also of fear and shadow, an excellent time for banishing magick as well as shadow work. I have written a blog about the dark moon you can read it here The Dark Moon
