In a more spiritual sense, the lunar cycle is the relationship between the sun and the moon, the goddess and the god. A full moon for example, is seen to be more powerful because the full light of the god is illuminating the goddess and shining down on us. It’s a combination of two of the strongest forces in our world. As the light fades, so does its intense pull, until the new moon rolls around and we get to rest, recharge and start anew.
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What do the different moon phases mean?
When talking about the lunar cycle, there are eight main phases, these are:
The new moon
The waxing moon
The first quarter
The waxing gibbous moon
The full moon
The waning gibbous moon
The third quarter
The waning moon
The cycle starts with the dark, new moon, slowly moving into the waxing moon, reaches its full power during the full moon then slowly fades through the waning moon and back into a new moon. These phases have different meanings and energies that we can use and we’re going to look at how to use each one below.
The New Moon
The new moon cannot be see, as the sun is behind the moon and is therefore lighting the side facing away from the earth. This is also the start of a new lunar cycle and occurs once a month.
The new moon is best for… This is a time for new beginnings and setting intentions for the month ahead. It’s the start of a brand new lunar cycle, so it’s the perfect time to make plans and decide what you want to achieve over the next 29 days.
Keywords: Intention setting, new beginnings, fresh start
The Waxing Moon
The waxing moon is seen as a crescent in the sky, illuminated on the right hand side as the sun slowly starts to move from its place behind the moon. The waxing moon is the first sign that energy is building and in a few days, the moon will be at its full power.
The waxing moon is best for… As the power of the moon builds slowly, it’s always a good time to work on things like your self confidence, compassion and self assurance. Build yourself up and really put plans into place to reach your goals.
Keywords: Self assurance, self confidence, planning
The First Quarter
Finally, the whole right hand side of the moon has been illuminated and we can see a clear half moon in the sky. The sun is now side by side with the moon and it is at half power.
The first quarter moon is best for… This is a good time for reflection and taking a little pause, revel in what you’ve been working on so far and celebrate your achievements. This is also a good time to think about how you want to celebrate the full moon and gear yourself up for some serious action.
Keywords: Reflection, pause, self appreciation
The Waxing Gibbous
The waxing gibbous follows the first quarter and leaves just a slither of dark moon left unseen. It’s one small step away from full power.
The waxing gibbous moon is best for… We are only one phase away from the full moon and it is time to really hone in on our intentions, goals and actions. Make sure you are paying attention to all the details and staying mindful about what is happening both externally and internally.
Keywords: Honing, mindfulness, action
The Full Moon
It’s finally here, the moon/goddess is at her full power and we can tap into her energy to help us manifest or gain insight into our problems.
The full moon is best for… Manifestation and adding extra power to your intentions. This time is perfect for doing rituals and spells, as it is the most powerful time of the month. It’s also a great time for things like releasing or banishing rituals, manifestation spells and meditations and a bit of admin such as charging crystals and cleansing tarot cards.
Keywords: Manifestation, inner work, divination
The Waning Gibbous Moon
The waning moon marks the winding down of the moons power. The sun is moving away and taking its light with it, creating a shadow on the right hand side.
The waning gibbous moon is best for… This is a time to really turn inwards and evaluate what has happened over the last few days. think about your full moon ritual or meditation and readjust your intentions and goals for the rest of the month.
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The Third Quarter
The third quarter moon is illuminated on the left hand side, marking the fact that the moon is now back to half power and fading.
The third quarter moon is best for… Now is the perfect time to really let go of anything that is holding you back or causing negativity in your life. This could be things like self-limiting beliefs, fear or even just an idea that’s been stuck in your head but unable to manifest itself. Whatever isn’t serving you anymore, let it go.
Keywords: Let it go, release, cleanse
The Waning Moon
The power of this moon is nearly over, with just a small left hand crescent visible in the night sky. It’s nearly time for a new moon and a new beginning.
The waning moon is best for… Taking a deep breath and surrendering to whatever has happened and everything that is out of your control. If you didn’t reach the goal you set at the beginning of the cycle, that’s fine! Don’t beat yourself up, take a breath and surrender to the will of the universe. Soon you will get the chance to dust yourself off and pick yourself up to give it all another go.
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source :
theselfcareemporium.com/blog/moon-phases-and-their-meanings 
