Since the beginning of time, humankind has honored the moon and lived in accordance with her phases.
Crops were planted and harvested, ceremonies were conducted and predictions were made. There is no question the moon impacts us here on earth, if you don't beehive it, just look at the tides.
Every culture has different rituals surrounding the moon’s phases, but one thing everyone can all agree on is how powerful her energy is!
The phases of the moon repeat approximately every 29.5 days - Starting with a full moon and continuing until the next full Moon.
Each phase is powerful, yet the energy of each phase is distinctly different. Here is a ”cheat sheet” to each phase’s energy and how you can use that energy in your everyday life:
During the New Moon, the moon is at its smallest crescent, right before the complete darkness. Some also refer to this as the witches moon. It is thought that this moon phase is the perfect time to set new intentions. Start something new, this could be a garden, hobby, business, relationship, etc. When you start something during this phase, the moon's energetic momentum will help whatever it is to build and flourish. It is also thought that if you cut your hair or nails during a new moon, they will grow stronger and faster during the moon cycle.
The Waxing Moon is when the moon is growing in size. During this phase focus on abundance. Brining in MORE! A simple waxing moon prayer or affirmation that I like is "I am open to more love, please bring more love in to my life, love for myself, love for others, love of the planet and all it's inhabitants, and please allow others to feel this love, too." Many people also use this as a time to manifest financial success.
The Full Moon is when the moon is at her energetic peak. This is a time to super charge all of your intentions, really focus on them coming into fruition. This is an excellent time for rituals. This is also a great time to be creative. Work with the energy of attraction during this time. Understand that the full moon will amplify your emotions and energy.
The Waining Moon is when the moon is getting smaller. This phase is the best time to work on letting go of things. If you are feeling anxiety or sadness, set an intention to let go of these emotions. If you would like to eat more healthfully and stop indulging in junk food, the waining moon would be the best time to start that! Even distancing yourself from a toxic relationship would have more success during this phase.
Besides for using the moon's energy in each phase, there are dozens of deities associated with the moon. The moon is almost always referred to in the feminine. She is connected with divine femininity. All being posses both divine masculine and feminine energy, so you do not need to associate with a particular gender to utilize her energy or call on her.
Here are a few Goddess' names who are thought to be connected to the Moon, you can call on any one of them help you with whatever you are manifesting:
Artemis
Diana
Selene
Luna
Hecate