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How Moon Phases Affect Us
As the moon moves through her phases, we do too.
If you've ever looked up at the night sky and gazed at the Moon, you'll probably understand why there is so much fascination with our glorious satellite.
It's common knowledge that our Moon affects the tides on Earth, shifting the tides back and forth with her cycles. The Moons cycle is also where we get our months from with each full cycle of the Moon lasting just under a full calendar month.
When you think about the affect the Moon has on this planet and us as humans being made up of around 60%, is it really surprising that these cycles have an effect on us too? This beautiful dance that the Earth, Sun & Moon have each month can affect not only our sleep, but also our personality, mood, desires and instincts.
Even the word lunacy was derived from the word "lunar" as in the lunar cycle as it was believed that the Full Moon would drive people mad! It's one of the reasons that stories about Werewolves became so popular! If you speak to midwives and police officers, they will often tell you that Full Moon nights are some of their busiest!
So, let's take a look at each of the Moon's phases and how they affect us.
New Moon
The New Moon is often linked to new beginnings as it is the point in the cycle we feel most introverted, if we make space for quiet reflection at this time we can better hear our inner most desires and turn our attentions to the things we really want.
The nights are naturally darker at the New Moon as there is no light being reflected back to us by the Moon, therefore we can feel much more tired around this time. It's a moment each month for us to take more down time, get earlier night and set some intentions for the month ahead!
Waxing Crescent Moon
The Waxing Crescent Moon is where we begin to see the light from the Moon returning and in turn inspires us to start taking action.
As the light gets brighter and the moon fuller, we gain more energy and focus however we are still at the very early stages of the Moon cycle and we still want to be honouring that slow build by taking time to dream and add detail to our intentions and wishes for the weeks ahead.
First Quarter Moon
The First Quarter Moon is a balance point in the cycle, equally dark as it is light. It's a point where opportunity is balanced with obstacles.
We might feel a little more anxious during a first quarter moon, as if there is still so much to achieve but somehow all the answers aren't quite there. Your focus here is to recommit, to reaffirm your desires and move through the uncertainty with courage.
Waxing Gibbous Moon
This is the last few days before a Full Moon and if you look to the skies the moon is bulging and growing fast. We will have the most energy during this phase so it's time for action.
We will be able to use the clarity and light coming in from the moon to overcome our challenges and see the doors that are being opened for us. All you have to do is say yes to the things that are in alignment with your dreams.
Full Moon
The most common complaint about a Full Moon from most people is how they simply can not get any sleep! We are now at the peak energy of the Moon and it's no wonder it leaves many of us feeling completely restless.
If you find yourself with hours of sleeplessness, then rather than try and force slumber you can use the extra energy to complete and tie up any loose ends or even find a little time to really celebrate all your achievements from the last few weeks.
Waning Gibbous Moon
You might still be buzzing with all that left over Full Moon energy during the week of the Waning Gibbous Moon. It might take a few days to settle back into your normal sleep patterns and routines.
Turn your attention to gratitude this week. It is an important practice to lean into especially during this phase of the moon. Practice gratitude for everything that you have manifested, even the obstacles as they show you where you need to heal and grow.
Last Quarter Moon
Often when we talk about the law of attraction and manifesting, this step is overlooked... but, the process of forgiveness and letting go is huge for our manifesting ability.
Write a forgiveness list of everything that you need to let go of in this cycle, these things may have shown up as challenges or obstacles or they could simply be habits or thought processes you no longer want to hold on to.
Waning Crescent Moon
During the final phase of the moon cycle, we are winding down back towards that space of introspection so this week, as the nights begin to get darker, we should prioritise our self care and rest.
Creating a self care practice doesn't have to be difficult or elaborate, but it is one of the best gifts you can give yourself. Even if it's just saying no to going out and taking a few nights in with your favourite meal and a nice drink, it counts as self care!
If you want a quick and easy way to see which moon phase that we are in you can always use my best selling Moon Phase Calendar.
Let me know how the moon phases affect you and don't forget to unleash your magic!!
Emma xx
