Reference: Moon Phases

# Reference: Moon Phases

Information on the moons phases.

**THE MOON AS A SYMBOL**

The moon is a powerful symbol of the Triple Goddess, who represents the
spiritual growth of wisdom and the evolution of a woman from an innocent
 maiden to the loving mother and hence to the wise crone. These stages
are also a reflection of the four lunar phases- the dark moon (just
before the new moon) the waxing moon, the full moon, and the waning,
which are also mirrored by the female menstrual cycles. Just as the moon
 is the mother of the universe, representing the feminine powers of the
cosmos, so the sun is opposite and represents the masculine forces that
surround us and infuse us with the power of the Gods. Purely in it's own
 right, the power of the moon and the timing of its phases can either
enhance or disrupt our bodily rhythms and our lives. Consulting the moon
 and an astrological chart is a vital part of spell-casting. Some days
and months are more beneficial for casting certain spells than other
times.

 **New Moon**

 The dark of the moon, when the moon is invisible, is the most affective
for casting spells concerning New Beginnings, and the launch of new
projects. It is generally a time for taking new paths and making fresh
plans established on the basis of past experiences. The influence of the
 New moon can also boost ambitions and careers, so it is a productive
time for sowing the seeds of success. During the New moon, money spells,
 and work spells stand a better chance of being fulfilled than at other
times. It is generally a good time for spending money and speculating
with a view towards the future. Those who have experienced problems
should take advantage of the valuable time.

**Waxing Moon**

 The waxing moon is the period between the New moon and Full moon. This
is a special time for expansion and growth, and accumulating strength.
It is also an appropriate time for preparing your magical spells for the
 most promising time, which is the three days before the moon is full.
The waxing moon aids the accomplishment of any undertakings, whether of a
 practical or spiritual nature. For witches it is a time for quests for
empowerment and a period in which to enhance our magical powers and our
perception of the other world. In fact, the closer we come to the Full
moon, the stronger and more aspiring are our intuitive powers, which in
turn, leads to a new level of awareness.

**Full Moon**

 The Full moon is the most fortuous time, especially when it's
approaching the witching hour of midnight. Your inner strength and
magical powers will be at their peak. Casting love spells during the
Full moon assures enchanting outcomes, so if you yearn for more love in
your life, now is the time to transcend your desires into the cosmos.
The full moon is also the most appropriate time to give recognition and
to pay tribute to the spirits that guide and protect you. During this
period, the extrovert aspects of our character begin to appear more
outgoing and receptive towards others. So use this time wisely and
crystallize your spells into rewarding experiences.

**Waning Moon**

 This is the period when the moon journeys from Full to New moon. Casting
 spells for removing problems, eliminating trouble, neutralizing
adversaries and causing harm is most affective when the moon is on the
wane. Protection spells for yourself, your loved ones, home and material
 possessions are also best cast at this time. It is also a time when our
 bodies are most susceptible to cleansing, so it is a good time to
cleanse yourself through the process of detoxification. This can be best
 achieved through healing and herbal remedies, such as healing teas.
Diet and exercise also become easier during this time and results tend
to last longer.