The moon has a powerful impact on Earth and all of the beings who live here. Just as the moon controls the tides of the ocean, it also effects us on a spiritual level. It can even have an effect on animals and the growth of plants. Working with the phases of the moon can be very beneficial to your spiritual path. As I always say, it's better to go with the flow than fight against the tide. The moon is always changing, not just phases but zodiac signs as well. Let's take a look at what energy the moon holds in each of its phases and astrology signs!
The New Moon marks the first lunar phase. It is when the moon is on the same ecliptic longitude as the sun. This makes it invisible in the night sky. It is also known as the dark moon. As the first phase, the moon holds the energy of new beginnings. This is an excellent time for setting your intentions. What do you intend to manifest at this time? The New Moon is also a great time for clearing energy. Releasing blocks and energy that no longer serves you to start fresh! I always like to do a good home cleansing, physically and spiritually on the New Moon.
The Waxing Moon means the phases of the moon while it is "growing" full. In order, that is the Waxing Crescent, First Quarter (Half Moon), and Waxing Gibbous. When the moon is in its waxing phases it holds the energy of growing or building up energy. This is a time of increase. Any of these phases are the time to work on what you would like to bring in to your life. Whether that is money, self love, success, courage, a new home, or a better job.
Finally, the Full Moon! The moon is at its peak energy. Completely illuminated and reflecting the light of the sun throughout the night sky. This is the time to fully release the intention you set at the New Moon. All of the energy you've been building up during the waxing phases is ready to be released into the universe! We are at peak manifesting time. This is a great time to set out your crystals to soak up the energy of the moon. The Full Moon also sheds light on shadows. Truths and shadow aspects of ourselves can instantly get thrown into our face. This is why the Full Moon is known for the "crazies" to come out. The word Lunatic is derived from Lunar, or the moon. Sometimes, people are not ready to face their shadows or hard truths. This causes unsettled feelings within them. It is a good time to really acknowledge your thoughts and feelings. What is the Full Moon bringing up for you?
Now the moon is entering its waning phases. The Waning Moon is when the moon starts its decent cycle to the New Moon. It is slowly becoming smaller and smaller. In order we start with the Waning Gibbous, Last Quarter (Half Moon), and Waning Crescent. This is a time of decrease. What do we want to remove from our lives? Now is a good time for banishing and cord cutting,
Eclipses are known for having volatile, uncertain energy. It is usually not recommend to charge crystals or perform any rituals at this time. While the Full Moon is known for manifesting and releasing intentions, Eclipses are known for going within. Eclipse cycles also bring up shadow aspects, truths, and big changes. Now is a time of introspection. How do you feel and why? It is also believed that what ever happens during Eclipse cycles is fated. The Eclipse can shake you up to wake you up!
Astrologically, the moon is the ruler of Cancer. In Cancer, the moon is the happiest and at home. The next best sign for the moon is in Taurus. The moon in Taurus is traditionally considered "exalted". Both Cancer and Taurus are all about comfort. Cancer focuses more of emotional comfort and feeling emotionally secure. The moon in Cancer is a perfect time to focus on Self Love and success. Taurus as an Earth sign, likes worldly comforts. The moon in Taurus is a great time to focus on tangible comforts like money and better living situations. The moon is at detriment, or its least happy, in Capricorn. Capricorn is all about following rules, doing hard work, and reaching the top of the economical ladder. It is the complete opposite of Cancer.
Below, I am going to include a moon planting guide. When is the best time for planting and the best time for weeding. Everything in the universe is interconnected. The moon planting guide for my fellow garden lovers is also a great guide for spiritual workings if you know how to read between the lines!
Planting By the Moon
New Moon
- Not a good time to plant. This is considered a resting period.
Waxing Moon (Growing to Full)
- Best time to plant annuals and above ground plants.During the waxing period the moon pulls moisture up to the surface of the ground allowing seeds to germinate. The increase of moonlight also helps plants grow.
- Best time to prune plants to encourage healthy growth.
Full Moon
- Great time for planting and transplanting!
Waning Moon (Decreasing to New)
- Best time to plant below ground plants such as bulbs and root vegetables. The moons gravitational pull is decreasing, allowing roots to downward.
- Best time to pull weeds.
Water Signs - Fruitful- Cancer, Scorpio, Pisces
- Best time to plant annuals and above ground plants.
- Best time to water plants, trees, and shrubs.
Earth Signs - Roots - Taurus, Virgo, Capricorn
- Best time to plant below ground plants such as bulbs and root vegetables.
- Best for transplanting to encourage root growth.
Air Signs - Barren and Dry - Gemini, Aquarius, Libra
- Best time to harvest.
- Best time to cultivate soil.
Fire Signs - Barren and Dry - Aries, Leo, Sagittarius
- Best time for weeding and pruning.
- Best time for pest control.