THE MOON PHASES & HOW THEY AFFECT US

The moon has been a source of wonder and fascination for humans for millennia. One of the most striking things about the moon is its phases, which wax and wane over the course of a month.

The moon exerts a strong gravitational pull that causes the changing tides in our oceans and seas. This gravitational pull is at its strongest during the New Moon and Full Moon, so here we experience the highest and lowest tides. The lunar cycle also has an impact on human reproduction, in particular fertility, menstruation, and birth rate.

As the moon changes phases, it has a variety of effects on us as humans, from influencing our emotions and energy levels to affecting our sleep and creativity.

Understanding the moon phases and how they impact us can be incredibly valuable. By living in alignment with the moon, we can tap into its natural rhythms and experience greater harmony, balance, and well-being. Here's a guide to the eight phases of the moon and how we can live in tune with them.

New Moon

The new moon is the start of the lunar cycle and is a time of new beginnings. It's a good time to set intentions, plant seeds, and start new projects. Use the energy of the new moon to focus on what you want to create in your life, and take action towards your goals.

Waxing Crescent

As the moon starts to grow in size, we may feel a surge of energy and creativity. This is a great time to brainstorm ideas, make plans, and start taking steps towards your goals. The waxing crescent is a time of growth and expansion, so use this energy to push yourself out of your comfort zone and try new things.

First Quarter

At the first quarter, the moon is half-full and the energy is building. This can be a time of challenges and obstacles, but also a time of great progress and growth. Use the energy of the first quarter to overcome obstacles and push through challenges, and remember to stay focused on your goals.

Waxing Gibbous

The waxing gibbous phase is a time of refinement and fine-tuning. Use this time to review your progress and make any necessary adjustments to your plans. This is a good time to seek feedback from others and make tweaks to your approach as needed.

Full Moon

The full moon is a time of heightened emotions and energy. This can be a powerful time for releasing anything that no longer serves you, whether it's negative thoughts, toxic relationships, or physical clutter. Use the energy of the full moon to let go of what's holding you back and embrace new opportunities.

Waning Gibbous

As the moon starts to shrink in size, we may feel a sense of release and letting go. This can be a good time to wrap up projects, clear out clutter, and tie up loose ends. Use the energy of the waning gibbous to create space in your life for new things to come.

Last Quarter

At the last quarter, the moon is once again half-full, but the energy is now waning. This can be a time of reflection and evaluation, as you look back on what you've accomplished and what you still want to achieve. Use this time to take stock of your progress and make any necessary adjustments to your plans.

Waning Crescent

The waning crescent is the final phase of the lunar cycle and is a time of rest and reflection. Use this time to slow down, take a break, and recharge your batteries. This is a good time for self-care, meditation, and introspection, as you prepare for the new moon and the start of a new cycle.

To sum up the post, living in alignment with the moon phases can be incredibly powerful.

By tuning into the natural rhythms of the moon, we can tap into its energy and use it to enhance our own lives. Whether you're setting intentions at the new moon, releasing what no longer serves you at the full moon, or taking time for rest and reflection at the waning crescent, there's something to be gained from each phase of the moon.

To live in alignment with the moon phases, start by tracking the lunar cycle. You can use a calendar or app to keep track of the moon's phases and plan your activities accordingly. As you become more attuned to the moon's energy, you may find that you naturally start to feel its effects and adjust your behavior accordingly.

In addition to tracking the moon phases, you can also incorporate moon-related practices into your daily life. For example, you might start a journal to reflect on your emotions and experiences during each phase of the moon, or create a moon altar with candles, crystals, and other items that resonate with you.

By living in harmony with the moon, you can tap into its powerful energy and experience greater balance, clarity, and well-being. So the next time you look up at the night sky, take a moment to appreciate the beauty and power of the moon, and consider how you might harness its energy to live your best life.

-Jannina Manjang
JM HOLISTIC WELLNESS