Following the path of the Moon through the sky unveils many wonders about the Solar System, and it can reveal just as many about your personality.
The Moon's constantly changing relationship to the Sun causes it to go through several different phases. There are eight Moon cycles, dividing the circle into eight 45 degree angles. Not only can the different lunar phases be used for prediction, but the phase of the Moon in your birthchart can also help to describe aspects of your character.
Once in a Blue Moon
The complete sequence of Moon phases from new to full takes a little over 29 days.
This means there are 12 full moons in some years, and 13 in others. Approximately once every two-and-a-half years, two full moons will fall within a single calendar month. The second is known as a Blue Moon, and rituals performed under it are twice as strong as normal.
Degrees of Moon to Sun
The energetic properties of Moonlight are extremely powerful, but they change throughout the month depending on the phase of the Moon. The Moon's powers are strongest when it is full.
The Moon follows a set and recognised path around the earth. From the black Moon counter-clockwise around the Earth and away from the Sun through its phases.
Dark Moon
The Moon is directly between the Sun and Earth.
Trim your hair now and it will grow stronger.
Light a white candle and make a wish for the month.
Move to a new house, start a job, or begin a relationship.
Begin an exercise regime or healthy eating plan now.
Waxing Crescent
45 to 90 degrees ahead of the Sun.
First Quarter
90 to 135 degrees ahead of the Sun
Waxing Gibbous
135 to 180 degrees ahead of the Sun.
Think positively during this phase and you confidence will grow with the Moon.
Affirmations will encourage a positive attitude.
Stand in front of a mirror every morning and say "I am a creative and confident person." You may feel silly but it will work.
Full Moon
Directly opposite the Sun, or 180 to 135 degrees behind.
Concentrate your energy on emphasising fulfilment and abundance.
This is an excellent time to contemplate great love.
Directing energy toward success always works well under a full Moon.
Waning Gibbous
135 to 90 degrees behind the Sun.
Concentrate energy on diminishing debt and lessening anxiety.
A great time to imagine an illness shrinking away or putting off an unwanted admirer.
Visualise all your problems gradually decreasing.
It is good fortune to give to others during this phase.
Last Quarter
90 to 45 degrees behind the Sun
Waning Crescent
Less than 45 degrees behind the Sun.
Waxing and Waning
Five main phases of the Moon are used during ritualistic practices. The new Moon, when only a tiny sliver can be seen. The waxing Moon as the crescent increases. The full Moon, when the whole circle is visible. The waning Moon as it diminishes again. And the dark Moon which refers to the brief period when the Moon cannot be seen at all.
Each aspect governs a different energy and influences rituals that should be performed during that period.
New Moon
When the crescent Moon is visible it is time to begin new ventures and start projects.
Waxing Moon
Focus on creative rituals during the waxing moon.
A great time to attract health, wealth and love.
Full Moon
When full, the Moon is at the height of its energy and power.
this is the phase most associated with magic.
Waning Moon
As the Moon decreases, it is the ideal time to focus on what you would like to disappear from your life.
Dark Moon
As the Moon shrinks to nothing and turns her face away from the world, it is wise to follow her example
Replenish your inner resources by withdrawing and looking inward.
Practise yoga or meditation rather than ritualistic acts at this time.
Evaluate what you want, but take no action until the next new Moon.