Fun Fact: Did you know that the moon phases in the Southern Hemisphere appear reversed in comparison to the Northern Hemisphere due to the opposite viewing perspective.
The lunar cycle, or the time it takes for the moon to go from one new moon to the next, is about 29.5 days. The exact duration of each phase can vary slightly due to the elliptical shape of the moon's orbit around the Earth
New Moon (Day 1)
This phase is often associated with beginnings and new intentions. It's an optimal time for setting new goals, starting new projects, and planting seeds (both literally and metaphorically). Some witches and practitioners of magic might perform rituals or spells for new beginnings, fresh starts, setting goals or manifestation during the new moon.
Waxing Crescent (Day 1.5 to Day 7.4)
This phase is seen as a time of growth, building, and attraction. Magically, it's often used for spells and rituals that involve increasing something in one's life, whether it's wealth, love, or personal power.
First Quarter (Day 7.5 and the halfway point between New Moon and Full Moon)
The first quarter moon is viewed as a phase of strength and determination. It's a time to take action, make decisions, and break through obstacles. Magic during this time might focus on success, motivation, and overcoming challenges.
Waxing Gibbous Day (7.6 to Day 14.4)
As the moon continues to grow, this phase is all about refinement and adjustment. It's a time to hone one's skills, tweak plans, and attract the resources needed. Spells for attraction, growth, and improvement are commonly done during this phase.
Full Moon Day (14.5)
The full moon is seen as the pinnacle of the moon's energy and is often associated with heightened intuition, psychic awareness, and powerful magic. Many practitioners believe that almost any spell or ritual can be enhanced by the energy of the full moon. It's also a popular time for charging magical tools, divination, and celebrating the goddess aspect in various pagan traditions.
Waning Gibbous Day (14.6 to Day 21.4)
As the moon begins to wane, the energy shifts towards release and reflection. This is a time to let go of things that no longer serve you, whether it's unwanted habits, relationships, or negative thought patterns. Spells for banishing, releasing, and cutting ties are commonly done during this phase.
Last Quarter (Day 21.5 Halfway point between Full Moon and New Moon)
This phase symbolises deeper introspection and forgiveness. It's a time to assess what's been accomplished and what needs to be let go of. Many believe this is a great time for rituals involving cleansing, protection, and inner growth.
Waning Crescent (Day 21.6 to Day 28)
As the moon continues to wane, it's seen as a period of deep rest and rejuvenation. This is a time for healing, recuperation, and preparing for the new moon. Spells for rest, recovery, and dreamwork might be performed during this phase.
| Moon Phase | Magical Properties |
|---|---|
| New Moon | Beginnings, setting intentions, manifesting new projects. |
| Waning Crescent | Growth, attraction, increasing wealth/love/personal power. |
| Last Quarter | Strength, action, overcoming challenges, determination. |
| Waning Gibbous | Refinement, adjustment, attracting resources, improvement. |
| Full Moon | Heightened intuition, powerful magic, divination, celebrating the goddess. |
| Waxing Gibbous | Release, reflection, letting go of unwanted habits or relationships. |
| First Quarter | Introspection, forgiveness, assessment, cleansing, protection. |
| Waxing Crescent | Rest, rejuvenation, healing, preparation for the new moon, dreamwork. |
