Throughout the history of mankind, the moon has been an object of fascination in the night time sky. Part of the myths and folklore of many ancient cultures, the moon is often associated with intuition, mystery and wisdom. To this day, the moon is an important part of many spiritual traditions and each of its phases are believed to have certain influences on our lives. The moon passes through eight phases during its monthly waxing and waning cycle, and each phase has its own particular influences.
New Moon
During this lunar phase, the moon is between Earth and the Sun. The dark side of the moon faces Earth, making it not visible when we look up at the night sky. Traditionally, the New Moon phase is a time of potential and possibilities. Think of it as a time when new ideas, and new beginnings, are planted and begin to germinate. During the New Moon phase it is common to feel a sense of expectancy, along with stirrings of creativity. Be open to new experiences and possibilities at this time. Set goals and look ahead to the potential of the future.
Crescent Phase
The crescent phase is when a sliver of Moon is visible in the western sky shortly after sunset. This is a time of challenge and moving forward. Metaphorically speaking, it’s when the germinating seed breaks out of its shell and pushes up through the soil. As the New Moon phase is a time for setting goals and dreaming what you desire, the Crescent phase is when you realize these goals and dreams require a certain amount of risk. It’s common to feel doubts and resistance during this phase, but the lesson is to rise to the challenge and push forward.
First Quarter
During the time of the first quarter, there are equal portions of light and dark on the face of the Moon. This is symbolic of a turning point between inertia and action. The first quarter phase teaches us that we must commit to the action of manifesting our goals and healthy desires, and continue moving towards bringing them to fruition. The first quarter also teaches us to let go of fears and doubts that hold us back in life.
Gibbous Moon
Also referred to as a Waxing Gibbous Moon, this is when the Moon is nearly at its Full Moon stage. This is often a time when energy seems to build, which can manifest in greater mental and physical energy or, on the flipside, feelings of impatience and irritability. The Gibbous Moon teaches the importance of finding a balance between focused perseverance and being open to changes that come our way. It’s also symbolic of greater spiritual awakening, and improved communication.
Full Moon
At this phase, the Moon is fully illuminated in the night sky. So it’s only fitting that this can be a time of illumination in the form of greater spiritual enlightenment. Heightened intuition and awareness can occur during Full Moon, allowing you to see situations more clearly and make decisions based on your observations. What has been “grown” during the earlier waxing stages of the Moon, will now come to fruition, which may bring either a sense of fulfillment or let down. If it’s the latter, don’t judge the situation or your feelings. Instead, view it as an important learning experience.
Disseminating Moon
Also known as Waning Gibbous Moon, this is when the Moon’s light begins to wane, signaling a time of greater introspection. While you may feel the need to withdraw at this time, it’s important not to isolate yourself. For the Disseminating phase is when we especially need to connect with others, sharing thoughts and ideas. During this phase we take what we learned during the waxing phases and communicate these insights, thus forming a greater connection with others and gaining a deeper understanding of our own life lessons. Just be sure to balance this need to communicate with the ability to listen and observe.
Last Quarter
Again the Moon has equal parts of light and dark, but unlike the building and learning that occurs in the First Quarter, this is a time of processing what we’ve learned, as well as taking a good look at our lives. Traditionally the Last Quarter is a time of letting go, so you may come to realize that certain things in life you strived for, or have been maintaining, no longer serve a purpose in your life. This is a time when you may decide to leave an unfulfilling job, end an unhealthy relationship or let go of self-defeating thinking patterns.
Balsamic Moon
During this final waning phase, the Moon is barely a sliver of light in the night sky. The Balsamic Moon is a time of release and rest. This can be a time of reflecting on what we’ve learned from the past, shifting into a newer, healthier way of thinking, or simply waiting. During the Balsamic phase you may need to withdraw and regroup, grieve any losses in your life, or just take some time to rest. This can be an especially good time to do some extra meditation, or spend time by yourself in quiet reflection.
Let the energy of the Moon guide your life in a positive way, and allow your spirit and mind to be open to the wisdom it reveals.
