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What does moon phase mean?
Updated: Feb 22
The term "moon phase" refers to the different stages of the moon's appearance as it orbits around the Earth. The moon's appearance changes as it orbits because different amounts of sunlight are reflected by the portion of the moon that is facing the Sun. This results in different phases of the moon that are visible from Earth.
There are eight primary phases of the moon, each with its own distinct appearance and symbolism:
New Moon: The moon is not visible from Earth and is located between the Sun and the Earth. This phase represents new beginnings, fresh starts, and the planting of new ideas.
Waxing Crescent: The moon appears as a thin crescent, with the illuminated portion increasing each night. This phase represents growth, expansion, and the manifestation of ideas.
First Quarter: The moon appears as half-illuminated and half-dark, with the illuminated portion on the right side. This phase represents stability, balance, and decision-making.
Waxing Gibbous: The moon appears as a large crescent, with the illuminated portion increasing each night. This phase represents growth, expansion, and the manifestation of ideas.
Full Moon: The moon is fully illuminated and appears as a bright circle in the night sky. This phase represents completion, fulfillment, and the manifestation of ideas.
Waning Gibbous: The moon appears as a large crescent, with the illuminated portion decreasing each night. This phase represents decline, contraction, and the release of ideas.
Third Quarter: The moon appears as half-illuminated and half-dark, with the illuminated portion on the left side. This phase represents stability, balance, and decision-making.
Waning Crescent: The moon appears as a thin crescent, with the illuminated portion decreasing each night. This phase represents decline, contraction, and the release of ideas.
In many cultures, the phases of the moon have been used to track time and to understand the cyclical nature of life. They are also often associated with different spiritual and symbolic meanings, such as the power of manifestation during the waxing phase and the release of old patterns and habits during the waning phase.
Overall, the moon phase is an important aspect of astrology and spirituality, and it can offer valuable insight into the cycles and patterns of our lives.