Moon Phases

The Moon completes a full cycle in approximately 29.5 days — the lunar month. During this time it passes through 8 main phases: from the new moon through the waxing crescent, first quarter and waxing gibbous — to the full moon, then back through the waning gibbous, last quarter and waning crescent. Each phase carries its own energy: from beginning and building up to culmination and letting go.

The shift between phases isn't the Moon changing shape — it's the angle at which sunlight hits its surface as it orbits Earth. That's why the cycle repeats with strict regularity every 29.5 days and can be predicted years in advance, unlike many other astrological cycles.

In astrology, the waxing phases (from new moon to full moon) are traditionally linked to building energy, starting new things, and growth — a time to act and initiate. The waning phases (from full moon to new moon), by contrast, are associated with completion, reflection, and letting go — a time to take stock and release rather than begin.

A full breakdown of all 8 phases is on the Moon Phases page: every phase now has its own article with recommendations and the next date, for example the new moon and the full moon. Many people use this rhythm as a practical guide — checking the current phase before an important decision, the start of a project, or its completion.

The sign the Moon is in adds a layer to its phase energy — check today's position on the Moon Today page, and the schedule for the month ahead in the lunar calendar.