Moon Magick: How To Use The Phases Of The Moon In Your Spells

Moon rituals are an ancient and sacred practice that originated in Egypt, Babylonia, India, and China where moon worship was a part of the culture. The phases of the moon influence the growth or decline of plants, animals, and human life. So, basking in the moonlight was seen as a sacred and necessary part of every cycle.

The beautiful thing about rituals, especially those related to the moon, is that they invite you to get quiet. They ask you to plant seeds of intention, and be one with the energy of our environment. Free from distractions.

And while there are 8 phases of the moon, the most potent phases are the new moon and the full moon. 

The new moon

This happens when the sun and moon come into alignment; when the yang (masculine) energy of the sun merges with the yin (feminine) essence of the moon. During this phase, the moon and the sun conjoin in the sky (align at the same degree astrologically). When this happens, energetically, it’s time to get still and plant new seeds of desire. During a new moon, it serves us to breathe new life into any area of stagnation or any place in your life where you would like to impact positive change.

The waxing crescent moon

During the days that follow a new moon, it’s time to anchor into your intentions. Focus on one thing you want to bring into existence during this lunar cycle. To that end, practice visualizations and affirmations at this time. Write your new moon intention out clearly and succinctly, and read it daily.

The waxing quarter moon

Now is the time to look at the challenges you currently face and make decisions about how you want to proceed. This is the time of the moon cycle when the sun and the moon square each other. A square in astrology is when two celestial bodies form a 90-degree angle. This allows you to see the issues that have arisen since the new moon and enables you to adjust your plans accordingly. Face adversity with a resolute mind. Find workarounds. Work productively with challenges. They are your greatest teachers.

The waxing gibbous moon

This high energy moment, right before the full moon, offers perspective. With the lunar momentum waxing to peak, things should start to feel like they are aligning. Therefore, this is time to ramp up energy in your life. Take massive action on behalf of your intended desire. Go after it with your whole heart.

The full moon

In essence, full moons are nourishing. Think about it: the moon, symbolic of the feminine, receives the light of the sun, shining it back to us with illumination. When the moon is full, its strong gravitational pull on the Earth makes for a time of peak creative energy and incredibly powerful intuitive breakthroughs. It’s about embodiment. The full moon accentuates everything that you’ve been working on during the waxing phase. Take time to reflect on what the full moon brings up for you. Get outside at night and let the light of the moon shine upon you. Let her light nourish your soul.

The waning gibbous moon

After the full moon, while the light of the moon wanes, it’s essential to consider what you need to release. During this phase, reflect on what is blocking you from receiving your desired outcome. Pay close attention to any energetic leaks or roadblocks holding you back from expressing the actualization of your desired result. Embrace the ease and let go of what’s blocking you from having what you want.

The waning quarter moon

When the moon begins to wane, and the light disseminates, there is a call to go within and do the internal work of seeking answers and heart-driven guidance. Grant yourself full permission to become more committed to yourself during this phase. Particularly during this time, our emotions are encrypted with messages regarding where we need to speak up or perhaps make changes in our lives. Listen intently for direction and guidance. It’s there for you!     

The waning crescent moon

This presents the final phase of the entire moon cycle. It occurs right before the next new moon. That said, it provides an opportunity to reflect back on the whole lunar cycle that has come to pass. What have you learned? What has happened? What hasn’t? Reread your new moon intention and evaluate how you’ve changed since you wrote it. Then consider how you want to get reorganized for this next new moon.

Happy Manifesting! For more information on new moon and full moon rituals, here's a good place to start!