While we’ve discussed the basics of moon phases in Moon Magic 101, there’s a lot more to know than just waxing and waning. In the book, “The Lunation Cycle” author Dane Rudhyar identifies eight distinctive moon phases. These phases are generally used by modern astrologers in conjunction with a birth or natal chart to describe a person’s overall approach to life and influence on the personality. But they can also be used for magic. By picking a time when the moon phase aligns with your intended purpose, you are electing to work with the moon’s energy.
What are the Moon’s Phases in order?
New Moon is when the Moon is conjunct the sun meaning they are in the same astrological sign. It is a time to set intentions for what you want to bring into your life. It is the first phase of the four Waxing Moon phases.
Crescent Moon is when the moon is just beginning to show in the night sky. This is a time of seeds sprouting and can represent a time of breaking free of the old, as you struggle to begin the new.
1st Quarter Moon is when the moon is half full and building. This is a time to take action, build a grow your ideas. I like to call it the, “throw against wall see what sticks” phase. It’s adventurous and exploratory, as you try new things.
Gibbous Moon is when the moon is beginning to appear as full. It’s a time of adjustment. In the previous phase you experimented, now it’s time to discern and evaluate what works and what doesn’t. Then you can focus on what works, and how to make it better.
Full Moon is when the moon is fully lit. It is the culmination of the growth cycle. Here is where you will see the results of what you intended in the new moon phase. It’s a time of success and failure. Also, the first phase of the four Waning Moon phases.
Disseminating Moon is when the moon is beginning to wane. It’s a time to distribute what you’ve learned or gained. You share your newfound knowledge with the world, and by teaching you reinforce what you’ve learned.
3rd Quarter Moon is when the Moon is ¾ full. It’s a time of reorientating yourself as you solidify your lessons by examining the past. It’s also a time when you are aware that time is ticking away and it’s a good time for tying up loose ends and finishing anything that needs to be completed.
Balsamic Moon is when the moon is a shrinking sliver. It’s a time to go inside yourself, release the past, and let go. Before you can plant new seeds you have to clear out the old and release your attachments to the past so you can focus on the future. It’s also a time to prepare for what’s next.
That brings us back to the New Moon, where the cycle begins all over again.
Resources
Here’s some resources to help you learn more about the moon’s phases:
Dan Rudyar’s book on the lunation cycle is a classic.
In Astrology by Moonlight, Astrologers Tara Aal and Ashwin Subramanyan go deeper into the Moon Phases.
Astrologer April Elliott Kent writes extensively about the lunar phases on her blog Big Sky Astrology.
