Full Cycle of the Moon: Full Moon Phases to Live By!
For centuries, we have been studying the full cycle of the moon and how its various phases and orbit can affect us, spiritually, emotionally and physically. If we stay in tune with the moon phases, we can harness the power of the moon to achieve personal growth. This may just lead you closer towards achieving your goals and dreams. Read our overview below about the eight moon phases and how you can benefit from the energy of the moon.
Eight Phases of the Moon
The moon's orbit around the Earth occurs approximately every 29.5 days which is known as a lunar month or a synodic month. During this full cycle of the moon, it is in a synchronous rotation orbit. So there's only one moon side facing the Earth, whilst the opposite side faces out into space and it is often referred to as the 'dark side of the moon'. The moon doesn't spin or rotate as it orbits around Earth which is in turn orbiting around the Sun. The moon has four primary phases and four intermediate phases. These occur every month as the Moon orbits the Earth:
1. New Moon - Primary Phase
The New Moon phase represents new beginnings and is a good time for making wishes or coming up with new ideas. Visualise what it is that you want to achieve. You may not have the knowledge yet to achieve your goals, but this knowledge will be gained later as this phase is more about self-discovery, beginnings and intent. It is not a time for making solid promises but for ‘planting the seed’ for the changes. Get involved in some type of physical activity during this phase.
2. Crescent Moon - Intermediate, Waxing Crescent
The Crescent Moon appears approximately 3 to 3½ days after the New Moon. The Crescent Phase is a time where you are more determined to commit to your goals, and seeking the information to make your goals become a reality. The Moon is reminding us this is the best time for gathering information, making contacts and learning more about what you need to do, for your plans or projects to come to fruition. Let your instincts guide you, and rise above any struggles that may come your way.
3. First Quarter Moon - Primary Waxing Moon
The First Quarter Moon is a time to leave the past behind and move forward. The Moon encourages us to take action now. Clear any obstacles in your way so that you get closer to achieving your goals and vision. During the First Quarter Phase, you may feel more sensitive and at times, misunderstood. Don’t fall in to the trap of needing to explain yourself to others for your actions. Achieve your goals by expressing your needs and desires. Physical action is the key during this phase.
4. Gibbous Moon - Intermediate, Waxing Gibbous
The Gibbous Phase of the Moon begins the 10th or 11th day after the New Moon. You may find yourself so close to achieving your goal, you can almost touch it. Yet something is not quite right. You feel that something is missing or is not quite ready. This is stopping your goal becoming a reality. The Moon is now encouraging us not to give up. Rather, use this time to analyse and review your original goal or vision. Reinforce your intent and stay on your path to continue with your plan. Additionally, be positive that it will happen and will happen soon.
5. Full Moon - Primary Phase
The energy level of the Full Moon phase is higher than any other time of the month. This is a very powerful time, when your own emotional energies can be a mixture of excess and extremes. However, these may manifest in a positive or negative way. You have spent half the lunar cycle working towards achieving your goals. Perhaps there is a sense of feeling that your plans are at last coming together, a feeling of completion and achievement. The Moon is encouraging us towards preparation, awareness and staying in touch with your emotions. Doing these things will help you to keep building on those goals you set out to achieve at the New Moon.
6. Disseminating Moon - Intermediate, Waning Gibbous
The Disseminating lunar phase begins on the 3rd or 4th day after the Full Moon. This moon time is about endings and letting go. It is now time to step back, be objective and see what awaits you. Be open to change and look for opportunities that will help you grow further. Furthermore, this is a great time too for communication. Share with others your knowledge, or listen to what others have to say. Remember to stay in touch with friends, stay in touch with your goals and adjust your goals if needed.
7. Last Quarter Moon - Primary Waning Moon
With only 7½ days until New Moon (from the beginning of this phase), it is now time to look back and look ahead in preparation. Where have you been, and what have you done? Where are you going, and what will you do? You may feel that you are at crossroads but this is decision time. Do things you’ve been putting off. Clean out your cupboards, eliminate any clutter, finish up some paperwork. Additionally, the Moon is now indicating that this is a good time to organise, prioritise and manifest your goals for the next cycle.
8. Balsamic Moon - Intermediate, Waning Crescent - Dark Moon
As we approach the next lunar cycle, the Balsamic Moon phase is a good time for quiet contemplation and release. This is not a time to make dramatic changes or react to chaotic situations. As we watch the moon disappear from sight and ‘resting’, this is what you should do too. Whilst the Balsamic phase is a time of preparation, so too is this a good time to ‘stop and smell the roses’. If you’ve been pushing yourself too hard, feeling used up and burnt out, the most important thing to do right now is give yourself a break. Meditation will work wonders for you at this time.
Special Lunar Events in the Full Cycle of the Moon
Solar and Lunar Eclipses
Technically, whilst not a phase, solar and lunar eclipses are very significant events in the moon cycle. A lunar eclipse occurs when the Earth comes between the Sun and Moon, casting a shadow on the Moon. This can only happen during a Full Moon.
A solar eclipse occurs when the Moon is between the Earth and the Sun, blocking the Sun's light either partially or completely. This alignment causes the Moon to cast a shadow on the Earth.
Eclipses are powerful moments for reflection and transformation, making them an important influence.
Supermoons
A Supermoon occurs when a full moon coincides with the moon's closet approach to Earth in it's orbit (usually under 350,000km), making it appear up to 7% larger and 16% brighter than usual. Supermoons are a time of heightened energy and can amplify the effects of the full moon, making them a significant event to observe and celebrate.
Blue Moons
Unfortunately 'Blue Moons' are not blue! There are two distinct definitions for this special moon event:
- The most commonly known meaning is when there's a second full month in a single calendar month. This happens a couple of times per year.
- The traditional meaning describes a blue moon as the third full moon in a season that has four full moons.
Both these definitions highlight the fact that these moon events don't occur very often, which is why we have the old fashioned phrase "once in a blue moon".
Every Month Get the Most from the Moon Phases for Spiritual Success!
Explore the full cycle of the moon and its full moon phases. We can all learn to live in harmony with the lunar phases and decide if we wish to live on the dark or light sides of the moon, that is our subconscious.
Understanding and following the full cycle of the moon can bring a sense of harmony and balance to our lives. At the very least, we have something of a sense of what is about to happen, giving us the opportunity for at least some control over our lives. By aligning our activities and intentions with the lunar phases, we can tap into the natural rhythms of the Universe. The New Moon offers a time for new beginnings and setting intentions, whilst the Full Moon provides a moment for reflection and celebration. Each phase carries its own energy, guiding us through period of growth, culmination and release.
Embracing these cycles can enhance our awareness, promote mindfulness and help us live more intentionally. Following the Moon cycle can ultimately lead us to a more fulfilling and connected life.
Happy Moon Orbits from Rose! 🌕🌗🌑🌓🌕
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