The lunar cycle has its own unique rhythmicity that we can align with to manifest our biggest, boldest dreams— for ourselves and for the collective. What’s so special about manifesting with the moon is the process is just as sacred (or even more, honestly) than the results. Modern Western society is built on the back of “hustle culture”, that if we just work hard enough all day, every day we will eventually get what we want.
But the universe doesn’t operate like that. The universe requires a balance of rest and hustle, work and play to create, and we aren’t exempt from that requirement. Working with the eight phases of the moon gives us a straightforward roadmap to manifestation that’s in alignment with the entire cosmos. How cool is that?
To get started, here’s a primer in the eight phases and how to align with each one.
The New Moon
This happens when the sun and moon come into alignment; when the yang (masculine) energy of the sun merges with the yin (feminine) essence of the moon. During this phase, the moon and the sun conjoin in the sky (align at the same degree astrologically). When this happens, energetically, it’s time to get still and plant new seeds of desire. During a new moon, it serves us to breathe new life into any area of stagnation or any place in your life where you would like to impact positive change. Rest is a sacred practice at this time—in fact, it’s non-negotiable.
The Waxing Crescent Moon
During the days that follow a new moon, it’s time to anchor into your intentions. We live in a hyper-connected world that puts emphasis on what everyone else around us has, so it may be tempting to make a laundry list of all we want to have and do. Instead, focus on one thing you want to bring into existence during this lunar cycle. Write it down somewhere where you’ll see it regularly. Read it with love and conviction every time you see it. And remember: it’s not about how often you read it, it’s about how deeply you connect with it.
The Waxing Quarter Moon
Now is the time to look at the challenges you currently face and make decisions about how you want to proceed. This is the time of the moon cycle when the sun and the moon square each other. A square in astrology is when two celestial bodies form a 90-degree angle. This allows you to see the issues that have arisen since the new moon and enables you to adjust your plans accordingly. In these complicated times, we need to embrace the process of catharsis during this phase. Release the tension that comes with challenges before it becomes too heavy. Physical movement is a great way to do this while the moon is waxing.
The Waxing Gibbous Moon
This high energy moment, right before the full moon, offers perspective. With the lunar momentum waxing to peak, things should start to feel like they are aligning. Therefore, this is time to ramp up energy in your life. Take massive action on behalf of your intended desire. Go after it with your whole heart, and don’t be afraid of what other people may think. Honor your soul by going all-in.
The Full Moon
In essence, full moons are a time of peak feminine power. Think about it: the moon (symbolic of the feminine) receives the light of the sun, shining it back to us with illumination. When the moon is full, its strong gravitational pull on the Earth makes for a time of intense creative energy and incredibly powerful intuitive breakthroughs. This phase is all about embodiment. The full moon accentuates everything that you’ve been working on during the waxing phase. Take time to reflect on what the full moon brings up for you. Then give yourself space to delve into your creativity. Any solutions you come up with now will lead you through the rest of this cycle in total alignment.
The Waning Gibbous Moon
After the full moon, while the light of the moon wanes, it’s essential to consider what you need to release. During this phase, reflect on what is blocking you from receiving your desired outcome. Pay close attention to any energetic leaks or roadblocks holding you back from expressing the actualization of your desired result. Embrace the idea of ease. Just because our society insists hard work and hustle are necessary to get anywhere doesn’t mean it’s gotta feel hard. It can actually feel joyous to move toward our goals. How can you find joy in this process?
The Waning Quarter Moon
When the moon begins to wane, and the light disseminates, there is a call to go within. This phase corresponds with doing the internal work of seeking answers and heart-driven guidance. Grant yourself full permission to become more committed to yourself during this phase. Go ahead and cancel any plans that aren’t in alignment. Be sure to schedule in lots of empty space in your calendar for reflection—and even more catharsis. Particularly during this time, our emotions are encrypted with messages regarding where we need to speak up or perhaps make changes in our lives. Listen intently for direction and guidance. It’s there for you!
The Waning Crescent Moon
This presents the final phase of the entire moon cycle. It occurs right before the next new moon. That said, it provides an opportunity to reflect back on the whole lunar cycle that has come to pass. What have you learned? What has happened? What hasn’t? Reread your new moon intention and evaluate how you’ve changed since you wrote it. Then consider how you want to get reorganized for this next new moon.
In my next post, I’ll delve deep into amping up your manifestation power with updated modern moon rituals. Until then, check out the current moon phase. Now’s the time to begin the process of aligning your intentions with what’s happening in the cosmos.
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