introduction
the moon has been involved in magickal practices for a long time. it is, in general, associated with intuition, fluidity and reflection. it embodies the feminine and it also is related to the element of water. it also represents our inner thoughts and feelings, what we often keep hidden away.
the moon has four primary phases throughout the lunar month. these are:
- new moon – lasts ~3 days
- waxing – lasts about two weeks
- full moon – lasts ~3 days
- waning – lasts about two weeks
these phases have an effect on your spells and rituals and knowing about them can be very beneficial to your practice
new moon
the new moon (or dark moon) is a period of new beginnings. it is ideal for setting your intentions and manifesting your goals for the future. new moon rituals focus on what you want to call into your life. you might start a garden or just plant a plant during new moon to help establish strong roots. you can also cut your hair and nails if you want them to grow faster. the new moon is about planting seeds for new growth. you might also do a ritual to formalize your intentions for the coming month. the goddesses associated with the new moon are Artemis and Hecate.
waxing moon
when the moon is in a waxing phase, the portion that is visible is growing. the waxing moon is about taking action. is a good time to perform “constructive” magick, drawing what you want or need. while the new moon is about setting intentions, the waxing moon is about taking tangible steps towards your goals. the start of the waxing phase is more about going internally and drawing out what you need, whereas the end is good for drawing what you need from the outside world.
full moon
the full moon is often about honoring your successes and how far you have come. it is the most powerful part of the lunar cycle. it also embodies self expression and action. it can mean completion, illumination and celebration. it is common to do rituals during full moon. you can also meditate, dance, write or draw, play music or do something else to express yourself for the full moon. take time to have gratitude for the culmination of the intentions that you set during the new moon.
waning moon
waning is when the part of the moon visible to us is getting smaller. the waning moon is a good time to do spells and rituals aimed at sending away and letting go: banishing, cleansing, getting rid of negative energies in general. you can perform waning moon rituals at any time during the phase, but the start of the phase is more conducive to smaller banishing and cleansing rituals, whereas the end is a good time to perform bigger banishings etc.
jumping over sundials 