just a phase

Each month, the moon moves through eight distinct phases during its 29.5-day lunar cycle. The word ‘month’ is derived from ‘moon’ for this reason.

The moon’s monthly phases are:

1. New Moon: The beginning of the lunar cycle, when the moon is completely hidden from view. It represents a time of new beginnings, fresh starts, and setting intentions for the upcoming cycle.

2. Waxing Crescent: As the moon begins to wax, a small sliver of light becomes visible. This phase symbolizes growth, expansion, and taking action on our intentions.

3. First Quarter: Half of the moon is illuminated, setting off a time of decision-making, challenges, and taking initiative to overcome obstacles.

4. Waxing Gibbous: The moon continues to wax, nearing full illumination. This phase encourages perseverance, refinement, and fine-tuning our goals and plans.

5. Full Moon: The peak of the lunar cycle, when the moon is fully illuminated. Full Moons represent endings, beginnings and heightened emotions. They shine a light on what needs to be released or celebrated in our lives.

6. Waning Gibbous: The moon begins to wane, decreasing in illumination. This phase invites reflection, gratitude, and letting go of what no longer serves us.

7. Last Quarter: Half of the moon is illuminated, but gradually decreasing. It's a time of reassessment, closure, and releasing anything holding us back from moving forward.

8. Waning Crescent: The final phase before the New Moon, with only a small sliver of light remaining. This phase encourages surrender, rest, and preparing for new beginnings.

In astrology, we are encouraged to work with the moon and its energy to support our own emotional phases. This is a key component of encouraging ourselves to Rise, as it allows us to understand when we need to rest, restore and re-emerge - whole or as a work in perpetual progress.