Introduction

The study of Lunar Astrology is exciting and actually, easy to master.  The Moon travels around the Zodiac as it orbits the earth affects us daily in many ways.  One of the most visible influences of the Moon on our lives and spirits is the daily change of the phase of the Moon.  Over a period of about 28 days, it goes from reflecting no sunlight – when it is essentially “Up sun” from the Earth to reflecting full sunlight when it is “down Sun”.  We know these two phases as the New Moon and the Full Moon.  There are many ways to divide up the 28 days of the cycle, but the most common is using eight phases.

You may be familiar with the eight moon phases – New, Waxing Crescent, First Quarter, Waxing Gibbous, Full, Waning Gibbous, Third Quarter, and Waning Crescent. However, you may be unfamiliar with their influence on your daily life. This e-book will explain the basics and teach you how to utilize that information for spells, rituals, ceremonies, observances, or healing practices. The moon holds great power and can be used as a source for transformation and strength towards a more positive lifestyle.

Ancient civilizations have utilized the Moon with great respect. In many cultures, the moon cycle was the basis of their clocks and calendars. It helped them maintain the cycles of religion and civil events as well as agricultural and hunting purposes. Some civilizations believed that the moon phases controlled fertility and determined when a woman could become pregnant. In fact, our word “month” is from “Moonth.”

In modern times, our viewpoint of the moon has evolved. You’ll find that the moon and its phases are heavily associated with astrology. Astrology can be overwhelming and difficult to understand. Luckily, we are just focusing on the basics of the moon phases so you can begin harnessing its energy to look at life’s challenges with greater clarity without a lot of astrological studies.

Phases

The New Moon

The new moon is positioned between the earth and the sun, so it cannot be seen from earth. It is completely darkened. This phase signifies new beginnings. During this time, start new projects, plan for the future, and make changes. Reminisce about your accomplishments and think about what you wish to accomplish. This is also a time to discard the things you do not want in your life so you can regain your strengths to begin again. Mentally rid yourself of unwanted thoughts and energy and recharge with the new moon. You may find it best to unplug or disconnect temporarily from others to give yourself some alone time to turn yourself inward.

Waxing Crescent

Waxing means the illumination of the moon is growing while the crescent refers to the curved shape on the right side. This phase signifies new intentions. The moon is progressing to fullness, so it’s time to plant your intentions and begin progress on your goals. This is also a good time to work on your confidence, compassion, and self-assurance.

First Quarter

The right half of the moon is illuminated during this phase. It signifies action and decision-making. It is a good time to reflect on what you have accomplished so far, celebrate your achievements, and take action. You will start to feel resistance in the form of obstacles during this phase. Be prepared to make decisions. Stay true to your intentions and desires.

Waxing Gibbous

The moon appears more than half illuminated, but less than full. It signifies refinement. We are only one phase away from the full moon. This phase gives us time to really hone our intentions, goals, and actions. You may need to make changes or adjustments. Pay attention to detail and be mindful. Take this time to figure out what is working for you and what needs to change.

Full Moon

During this time, the moon is completely illuminated. It signifies release and sealing intentions. This is the most powerful moon phase. It is the best time for manifesting and gaining insight. It is the most recommended time to perform ceremonies and charge or cleanse divination tools such as crystals. You’ll find your psychic abilities are increased and extra power is added to your intentions. Emotions can run high during this phase.

Waning Gibbous

The moon begins to look less illuminated on the right side. It signifies gratitude. The power from the full moon is winding down. You should feel the benefits of the full moon here. You’ll feel full of love and light. Now is the time to share and give back to those around you.

Third Quarter

The left half of the moon is illuminated during this phase. It signifies forgiveness. Forgive yourself and others during this time for mistakes or grudges and release all anger. It is an excellent time to break bad habits, let go, and release energy. Rid yourself of all negative energy, so you can be able to receive the new intentions you set during the new moon. Take the time to look at anything that no longer serves you and remove it from your life.

Waning Crescent

Waning means the illumination of the moon is decreasing and forming a crescent shape on the left side. This signifies forgiveness surrender. It’s nearly time for the new moon that will bring new beginnings. Time to prepare for the new cycle. Surrender to the universe. Things won’t always be in your control. That is okay. Forgive yourself and reset the intentions you did not achieve for the next cycle. Take extra care of yourself and allow yourself peace of mind.

To apply this knowledge of Moon astrology, we can combine it with the ancient wisdom of the cosmic energy of the days of the week Every day carries its own unique vibration and when you can tune in to its energy, you will start to notice how it will shape and guide your week.

Knowing the basic energy of the different moon phases, and knowing the energy of each day of the week, we can now add even more knowledge We can do this by using ordinal directions – north, east, south, and west. They can help you with more than navigation. Each of these carry a meaning of its own and corresponds to one of the four elements – Earth, Fire, Water, and Air.  In the chart below we see the energy of the cardinal directions and the basic element that is associated with them.

Knowing the energy of the Moon’s cycle, the energy of the days of the week, and the energy of the cardinal directions gives us incredible knowledge. We can build a calendar of the cosmic energy.  We can use that calendar to set up our sacred space to assure our spells and ceremonies are their most powerful because they are done at the best possible time and the altar is set up in the best possible way.

The chart below brings this all together and makes it very easy to create a monthly calendar of the cosmic energy based on the moon cycle and the days of the week.

For example, if you wished to create a spell or ceremony that was focused on romantic love, you would find a time this month when the Moon is a New Moon, a Full Moon, or a Waning Gibbous moon that occurs on a Friday or Tuesday.  When that combination occurs, you would orient your altar focus to the East, South, or North.

You can easily find monthly calendars on the Web that show the moon cycle for the month.  With that calendar and the following chart, you can assure your magic is powerful by aligning your intentions with the cosmic energy.