With moon phases explained, we will discover what energy is best to bring with you through each phase. Such as whether or not goal setting is a good idea right now, when is a good time for intention setting? When is a good time for release? And more.
Moon Phases
Moon phases explained; Lunar phases are like the relationship between the sun and the moon (The god and the goddess) A full moon, for example, is seen to be more potent because the full light of the sun (god) is illuminating the moon (goddess). Depending on the phase, it will tell us in which energy we are. Less illumination from the sun means more goddess energy and vice versa.
New Moon – the beginning of the new phase cycle, there is no direct sunlight reflection leaving the moon very small and dull, possibly even unseen.
The new moon symbolizes new beginnings. Think of the new moon as not only your fresh start but also a time to retreat to gain strength to begin again with new intentions in mind for the nest phase.
Waxing Crescent – Appears less than half illuminated until it “waxes” or “grows bigger” into the next phase, the first quarter.
This energy represents intention, hopes, and wishes. After recharging under a new moon, your intentions and desires are ready to be planted.
First Quarter – Exactly half of the moon is illuminated, and the other half shadowed.
This moon phase signifies decision-making. It is also a beautiful reminder to balance our bright side with our shadow side. It’s about appreciating both sides but recognizing your true self and the desires that come from the heart.
Waxing Gibbous – Not yet fully illuminated, but there is more light than dark.
It is an excellent time for manifestation; your intentions and desires have been growing since the new moon phase, and now is the time for your hard work to come to fruition. It may still take some time to see all accomplishments come to light, but keep goals and intentions strong and true – The wheels ARE in motion.
Full Moon – Full illumination
It represents completion, the height of power, the realization of your desires, and the peak of clarity. A time to celebrate your growth, to take note of your progress, and reflect on how far you’ve come.
Waning Gibbous – After a full moon, the moon wanes (becomes smaller) into the last quarter.
This phase represents release, letting go, forgiveness, and gratitude. As the waning moon, it is time to shrink ego and allow the release. Show gratitude to all the things you are ready to release because those are the things that got you here today, it just no longer serves you, but be thankful for it.
Last Quarter – Half of the moon illuminated, much like the first quarter, now it is just the opposite side illuminated.
It is another reminder to embrace both sides of us, the bright side that is motivated, along with our shadow self, that doesn’t always bring out the best in us, a balance needed for the harmony of both sides. It is in the darkness that we can find the light, don’t shy away from those shadow selves. The focus of this phase is letting go of anger and resentment. To cleanse to prepare for the next new moon phase. Be willing to look at what isn’t working for you anymore.
Waning Crescent – The fraction of the moon that is illuminated is decreasing on its way to the new moon phase.
Represents a time of surrender, rest, and recuperate. It isn’t the best time to be setting new intentions, just relax and surrender to the will of the universe. You have been putting the work in through the last seven phases, enjoy and reflect on what worked and maybe what didn’t work so well. You may feel a little down or low energy between this phase and the new moon phase, and it is natural. You have spent the last three phases on releasing and letting go, which takes a lot of emotional energy.
Moon Phases Explained – Final thoughts
Just as the moon provides an ebb and flows to our oceans, it gives an ebb and flow to our own lives. Some ebbs feel hard, but it will release and allow flow to come back through. Especially when we are doing the work, we need to shift out of limiting beliefs that hold us back, and when we are working on new intentions and goals.
Now that the moon phases explained has helped you understand what energy to bring through the phases, I recommend you try following the advice for a month or two, keep a journal, and see what happens in that time. Did things seem to flow more smoothly? Did you find yourself with more time? More productive? Did you find releasing old energies easier when following the phases? I am genuinely interested to hear about your experiences, leave me a comment below.
Until next time,
Relevate the day — Anna xo