This is my absolute favorite time of year! Once school starts I begin thinking about cool nights, falling leaves, apple and pumpkin picking, Halloween, Thanksgiving and Christmas. I wait all year for these 3 months! I look for every way possible to celebrate and bring a bit of wonder into our daily lives. If you aren’t familiar with the magic of the moon phases, October is the perfect time to learn all about it!
First, What are the phases of the Moon?
The phases of the moon have been broken down by astrologers as the primary phases: New Moon, First Quarter Moon, Full Moon and Last Quarter Moon, and the secondary phases: Waxing Crescent, Waxing Gibbous, Waning Gibbous, and Waning Crescent.
Why are the phases of the moon important?
Most of us know that the tides are controlled by the moon. Similarly, our bodies are affected because we are made of approximately 60% water. If the Earth’s bodies of water are subject to the moon, certainly our bodies are as well.
With sleep being a huge priority and also a huge issue with many adults, Circadian Rhythm has been a hot topic. Circadian Rhythm is our body’s internal sleep/wake cycle in a 24 hour period. The phase of the moon can have a significant effect on our sleep. The brighter the light of the moon, the more restless our sleep may be. In more esoteric ways, the moon has energetic effects on our bodies and minds.
Why Mark the Phases?
We often think of the phases of the moon being associated with witchy figures dancing around a cauldron in the middle of the forest. While I kinda love that image, it’s actually much more practical than that. Understanding the phases of the moon and planning your life in accordance is called Moon Mapping. It actually helps one live a more purposeful life. the energy given off of the moon is different in every phase. New moon Energy is often celebrated as a time for new beginnings and a full moon gives closure. In days past, when we lived more closely with nature and its natural cycles, a woman’s menstrual cycle may have followed the cycle of the moon. It is obviously still possible and would be an amazing occurrence running parallel with a woman’s Infradian Rhythm.
As a “woo woo” example, the Full Moon is often acknowledged as a time of illumination, which makes it easier for us to see the truth and let go of what is no longer serving us. People often take a detoxing and soothing bath or charge their crystals in moonlight or with moon water.
As a practical example, What if a person is facing an addiction? Wouldn’t it feel comforting to have the support of the Full Moon, physiologically, to mark your new intention in letting go of old habits and embracing a healthier life? If nothing else, the symbolism is beautiful.
Are you a Moon Mapper or follower of the moon’s cycles? If you are, how do you mark the phases?