Phases of the Moon and their meanings

1 Oct, 2024 | The Moon

5 Minute Read

Words by WYLDE MOON staff writer

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During each lunar month, the moon goes through eight phases. Here we share the significance of each phase helping you harness the power of our glorious moon.

First Phase – New Moon

 What is a New Moon?

This first phase is when the moon is barely visible, due to the fact that the sun and the moon are on the same side of the earth.

This is often referred to as the dark side of the Moon.

 What does a New Moon signify?

The New Moon phase is synonymous with fresh starts, limitless possibility and rejuvenation. It’s the perfect opportunity to reflect on what has passed, learn from it and put it behind you, as you refresh and begin again.

Second Phase – Waxing Crescent Moon

 What is a Waxing Crescent Moon?

This phase is when the right side of the moon is illuminated, as the sun beings to move from behind the moon creating a crescent shape.

 What does a Waxing Crescent Moon Signify?

The Waxing Crescent phase is often referred to as the rebuilding phase. Once the moon has re-emerged with new energy, it is the perfect time to set new intentions for the month ahead and work on self-improvement.

Third Phase – The First Quarter Moon

 What is a First Quarter Moon?

During this moon phase, the whole of the right side is illuminated due to the sun and the moon being side by side.

 What does a First Quarter Moon Signify?

The First Quarter Moon phase is often a period where obstacles tend to raise their head and where decisions need to be made. This not a time to hesitate, but a time remove any obstacles and push forward.

Fourth Phases – The Waxing Gibous Moon

 What is a Waxing Gibbous Moon?

During this penultimate phase before a Full Moon, only a tiny portion of the moon’s surface is kept in darkness. It’s at this time when you are most likely to see the moon during the day.

 What does a Waxing Gibbous Moon Signify?

The Waxing Gibbous Moon phase is a time for reflection. It’s a time to look back on the life lessons you’ve learnt and the internal growth that has come from them and use this to adjust your current goals and life path accordingly.

Fifth Phase – Full Moon

 What is a Full Moon?

The Full Moon phase is when the whole face of the moon is illuminated for all to see, due to the fact that the sun and moon are on opposite sides of the earth.

 What does a Full Moon Signify?

The Full Moon phase is thought to be the most powerful of all the moon phases. It brings with it a time to harvest intentions set, celebrate achievement and reap reward. The Full moon is often compared as the Yin to the Yang of the New Moon and as such can represent a period of closure and coming full circle.

Sixth Phase – Waning Gibbous Moon

 What is a Waning Gibbous Moon?

During this phase, the sun begins to move behind the moon, meaning a small dark slither appears on the right side of the moon.

 What does a Waning Gibbous Moon Signify?

A Waning Gibbous Moon phase is a time to look inwards and re-evaluate your goals. It’s a time to feel grateful for what has been this month and re-adjust your intentions moving forward.

Seventh Phase – Last Quarter Moon

  What is a Last Quarter Moon? This is when the moon is illuminated on the left hand side, it is back to its half power phase.   What does a last quarter moon mean? This is the time to cleanse yourself, a time to release negativity and old habits that bind you. Let go of all that no longer serves you.

Eighth Phase – Waning Crescent Moon

 What is a Waning Crescent Moon?

This phase is when the moon returns to being an illuminated crescent shape and is the final phase before it enters the new moon period.

 What does a Waning Crescent Moon Signify?

A Waning Crescent Moon is the perfect time to rest and regenerate. It’s a period of self-care; to find inner peace and reconnect with yourself, surrendering all that has happened that is out of our control, before the lunar cycle begins again.

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Whilst WYLDE MOON consults with experts, no advice should replace that of your registered doctor. As such, the information we publish is for information purposes only. It is not intended to be a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Always seek the advice of your qualified healthcare provider for any medical conditions, and never disregard professional medical advice because of information you have read from WYLDE MOON.

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