Moon Phases & Ritual Timing
Working with the moon is less about superstition and more about rhythm. Align your intentions with each phase to move projects—and healing—steadily forward.
The Four Core Phases
- New Moon: Quiet beginnings. Set clear, simple intentions. Think seeds, not harvest.
- Waxing (Crescent → First Quarter → Gibbous): Action and momentum. Break goals into small, doable steps.
- Full Moon: Illumination and celebration. Notice what’s working; express gratitude; release what’s out of alignment.
- Waning (Disseminating → Last Quarter → Balsamic): Refinement and rest. Edit, declutter, complete, forgive.
Setting Intentions That Stick
- One theme per cycle: Choose the area that would change the most if improved (health, finances, relationship, creativity).
- Phrase it as behavior: “I practice 20 minutes daily” beats “I become enlightened.”
- Track in a notebook: Write your one-sentence intention at New Moon and log tiny actions during waxing days.
A Simple New → Full → Waning Flow
- New Moon (Day 0–2): 10 quiet breaths; write 1–3 intentions; light a candle; visualize roots for stability.
- Waxing (Day 3–13): Daily micro-actions; speak your intention aloud each morning.
- Full Moon (Day 14–16): Review progress; name three wins; release one habit by writing it and safely tearing the page.
- Waning (Day 17–28): Declutter one drawer; simplify schedules; stretch, hydrate, and rest earlier.
Ritual Ingredients (Optional)
Keep it grounded and safe. Consider a candle, a glass of water, a small bowl of salt (for boundaries), and a stone that feels supportive. Always practice fire safety: stable surfaces, supervision, and full extinction.
Journaling Prompts
- What am I genuinely ready to begin?
- What is the smallest action I can take today?
- What truth is becoming visible now?
- What can I lovingly lay down to rest?
When Life Gets Messy
You don’t have to keep perfect lunar time. If you miss a phase, pick up where you are. The moon will be back next month. Consistency beats intensity.
Working with the moon is an invitation to move with tides rather than against them—gentle persistence, honest reflection, and rest when it’s time to rest.