I Moon You: lunar Phases
You’ll find most moon phase-related content centers around certain phases being the optimal (or sometimes the “only”) time to do certain things. To that, I say no.
You don't need a new moon to start something new or to put off rest until the waning moon. Think of lunar phases as a way to inspire actions or your heart's feelings, not a militant natural occurrence to restrict, expect, or set rules.
At every moment, the moon dances around the earth, and each dance step is a different phase. Like the earth's changing seasons, each lunar phase has been used for centuries to cast spells, conduct ceremony, and plant crops. Now in the present, with a growing awareness of each phase, the moon is inspiring people as a catalyst to check in with self, take inventory, and form specific actions and rituals.
Whenever possible, I align bigger tasks, meetings, and event planning with specific moon phases. I especially prefer to launch new products or ventures during the new/dark moon. There’s something deeply moving about working in sync with the moon—a constant presence that has guided my ancestors through every stage of life.
A full moon is said to amplify emotions (anger, sensitivity, enjoyment, etc.), so if it feels right, it might be an ideal time to flow with that day's emotions. Do something fun if you’re feeling energetic, or stay tucked inside with a warm blanket if your mood is low and depleted.
Although much "moon folklore" has been debunked, I find value in how lunar phases have inspired ancestral lore here on Earth. For instance, we've all heard the old wives’ tale that more babies are born during a full moon due to a natural gravitational pull (not true, but fun to think about). Okay, but farmers still use moon phases to plant and harvest crops? Above the ground, crops are often planted during a new moon.
Here’s the thing, most people are interested in the moon, and it makes sense, as we're reminded of it every time we look up into the expansive sky. To dive deeper into what comes with each stage and what it all means, it's all laid out below. Enjoy.
MOON PHASES
1. NEW MOON: set intentions
The moon is dark in the sky, fresh and new. Let it invite the following: start a new project, move, set goals, go on a job search, make plans, write a list, create a vision board - anything to take small steps for what you'd like to come to fruition.
2. WAXING MOON: action into motion
The moon is growing fuller. This is the time the moon asks you to “begin!”. Put things into motion, at your pace. Let it invite the following: gathering information, studying, networking, interviewing, creating, etc. Often waxing energy may amplify physical regeneration, agility, or strength. You might feel physically well and strong at this time.
3. FULL MOON: reflect and amplify
Perhaps now is a good moment to assess whether the initiatives you've set in motion have borne fruit, or if adjustments or even letting go are necessary. Full moons often stir strong emotions, prompting reflection and the release of what no longer serves—whether thoughts, pressures, or relationships. It's a time to appreciate your progress and express gratitude for the journey thus far.
4. WANING MOON: rest and organize
This phase is often a time to slow down, focus on healing, and embrace introspection. It invites us to cleanse and renew—whether that means shifting old thought patterns, breaking habits, or mending relationships. It’s also a perfect opportunity to declutter, refresh your space, and lay the groundwork for new beginnings.
ASTROLOGY AND THE MOON
The second piece of each lunar phase is its astrological influence. Each full or new moon phase falls within a particular astrological phase (12 signs total) during its monthly course around earth. Elements, energy or even the physical influence of the astrology sign the moon resides in may be felt or can be used as a tool to inspire some reflection or a ritual. For example, if the full moon is in the sign of Cancer:
CANCER TRAITS: emotional, creative, loyal, protective, often rules “mother” energy
+
MOON THEME: heightened emotions or letting go
= surge of creativity, caring for a loved one or letting go of controlling a particular issue
This is the most simplistic overview that makes most sense to me (and hopefully to you, too). To make it easier, below you'll find a list of this year's moon phases, dates and astrological influence.
