moon phases

phases of the lunar cycle

did you know there are eight moon phases that can impact your life in completely different ways? for those unfamiliar with the lunar calendar, you may be surprised to learn that the mighty moon affects us beyond the days when we have a full moon or a new moon. in between these opposite phases of the moon, we have additional phases that each hold their own importance. the moon assists with vital parts of our reality on earth—such as dictating the tides of the ocean and moderating the earth’s balance along its axis in order to make our planet more hospitable—but it also holds important astrological information. learn more about the moon on the nasa website

new moon 0-45 degrees
what is it? - the new moon is not visible because the sun and moon are on the same side of the earth. at this stage, we are faced by ‘the dark side of the moon.’
what does it mean? - the new moon is considered a time for fresh starts and rejuvenation, with women, especially, needing to regain their strength after the monthly cycle. this is the time for setting new intentions and putting the past behind you.
waxing crescent 45-90 degrees
what is it? - the waxing moon (or waxing crescent) is a crescent illuminated on the right side as the sun begins to move from behind the moon.
what does it mean? - this is the rebuilding phase as the moon has rejuvenated and emerged again. this is the time to set intentions, hopes, and desires for the coming month, as well as being the ideal time to work on self-confidence and compassion.
first quarter 90-135 degrees
what is it? - at this stage, the whole right side of the moon is illuminated as the sun and moon are side by side.
what does it mean? - thought to be the stage of obstacles, this is the ‘pause’ in the lunar cycle, a time when challenges, decisions, and actions come into play. largely, this should be a time of reflection regarding your intentions and their obstacles.
waxing gibbous 135-180 degrees
what is it? - one step away from a full moon, the waxing gibbous leaves a tiny slither of the moon’s surface in darkness. this moon can be easily seen during the day.
what does it mean? - as we enter the full moon phase, this last stop is a time to adjust, refine, and edit intentions in the face of the challenges from the first quarter.
full moon 180-135 degrees
what is it? - with the sun and moon on opposite sides of the earth, the face of the moon is entirely illuminated.
what does it mean? - thought to be the most powerful lunar phase, many believe that this is the most charged spiritual phase. emotions run high as the sun and moon operate in different zodiac signs, but new opportunities and power surges are often available to those ready to accommodate them.
waning gibbous 135-90 degrees
what is it? - as the sun begins to move once again behind the moon, a dark slither becomes apparent on the right side, reflecting the last quarter moon.
what does it mean? - a period of evaluation, this is the ideal time to reflect on the events of the past few days, and readjust intentions for the rest of the month.
third quarter 90-45 degrees
what is it? - the moon is illuminated on the left side, back to half-power.
what does it mean? - this is the time of letting go anything that is no longer serving us, making it the ideal opportunity to clean, cleanse, and purge.
waning crescent 45-0 degrees
what is it? - with just a crescent illuminated once more, this is the moon’s last stop before it reenters the new moon period.
what does it mean? - now is the time to surrender to whatever has happened that is out of our control. we should practice compassion and self-care at this time ahead of dusting ourselves off for the next cycle.