Have you ever looked up into the night sky, wondering why the moon looks like it’s constantly changing? The answer lies in the 8 distinct moon phases and their order: New Moon, Waxing Crescent, First Quarter, Waxing Gibbous, Full Moon, Waning Gibbous, Third Quarter and Waning Crescent.
New Moon
The New Moon is the first moon phase of the lunar cycle. It appears when the Sun and the Moon are aligned in an exact straight line and the dark side of the moon faces the Earth. During the New Moon, we can’t see the Moon in the night sky as the entire lunar surface is in complete darkness. The New Moon is a time of renewal and new beginnings as it marks a new lunar cycle.
Waxing Crescent
The Waxing Crescent is the second moon phase and it appears after the New Moon. It marks the start of the light growing, as the crescent waxes, or increases. During this phase, the Moon appears to have a thin crescent-shape on the right-hand side and it is visible in the early evening. This moon phase is a great time for manifestation and goal-setting.
First Quarter
The First Quarter moon is the third phase and occurs when the Sun, Earth and Moon form a 90° angle. This phase occurs exactly halfway through the lunar cycle, making it the perfect time to reflect on the progress you have made in the current cycle. During this phase, the Moon appears to have a half shape in the night sky.
Waxing Gibbous
The Waxing Gibbous moon is the fourth phase and follows the first quarter, as the Moon increases in size. During this phase, the entire left side of the Moon is visible and more than half of the surface is illuminated. Generally, this moon phase denotes the best time for taking action and setting new goals.
Full Moon
The peak of the lunar cycle occurs with the appearance of the Full Moon. This is when the Moon has fully illuminated and appears as a complete circle in the night sky. The Full Moon is a great time to take stock of what you have and release anything that is no longer serving you, whether it’s a physical item, attitude or way of life.
Waning Gibbous
The Waning Gibbous moon is the sixth phase and represents the dying light. During this period, the Moon has switched to the right side, with more than half of the Moon’s surface illuminated. This is a great time to open up to new ideas and plan for the upcoming new moon.
Third Quarter
Third Quarter, also known as the Last Quarter moon, is the seventh phase and occurs when the Sun, Earth and Moon form
