What the Fuck is Up with the Moons? A Woowoo Guide to Lunar Phases
If you're diving into your spiritual, woowoo, nature-aligned journey, one of the biggest things you'll hear about is the moon. Full moons, new moons, waxing, waning, eclipses—suddenly it feels like you have to be an astrologer just to keep up. But don’t stress—I got you. For a FULL breakdown on each of these phases with deep dives, history, and rituals, grab my Dancing with the Moon ebook.
The Basics: Full Moon vs. New Moon
I remember my last year as a teacher, overhearing a student say, "It’s a full moon! Time to manifest!" And I had to step in real quick—"No, no, full moons are for releasing what's blocking your manifestations. New moons are for setting manifestations!"
Yes, each moon phase has a meaning. Yes, there are traditional practices and rituals associated with them. But let me make one thing crystal clear: just like time is fake, rules are also fake.
The new moon is for setting intentions and casting manifestations (but you can manifest at any time!)
The full moon is for releasing what’s no longer serving you (but if you need to leave that draining relationship during a waning gibbous, don’t wait for the next full moon to do it!)
Still, I love the idea of each moon phase offering a structure, a framework to work within. Think of it as a ritualistic canvas where you can paint your own spiritual practice. So, here’s your cheat sheet:
Full Moon: The moon is FULL of light!
New Moon: The moon is completely hidden, dark sky, blank slate.
Waning: The moon is going away from its full phase, like a waning smile—shrinking into darkness.
Waxing: Moving toward the full moon, getting brighter.
Crescent: Looks like a "C" in the sky.
Gibbous: Almost round but not quite… think of it as a bloated but not pregnant moon.
The Phases & What They Mean
New Moon: The Blank Slate
The new moon represents fresh starts, making it the perfect time for goal-setting and manifestation. Energy levels are usually lower, nudging you to slow down and get real with yourself. Use this time to:
Set clear intentions
Begin new projects
Visualize and journal
Do shadow work and internal reflection
(Side note: I swear by the To Be Magnetic manifestation method, which is rooted in neuroscience and psychology. I have a discount code for you!)
Waxing Moon: Build and Expand
As the moon grows, so does your energy and momentum. This is a phase for:
Strengthening habits and routines
Focusing on self-care and wellness
Taking action on new ventures
Boosting confidence and stepping into your power
Physical tip: Your body is primed for strength-building and endurance work—think weight training, long walks, or invigorating yoga.
Full Moon: Illumination & Release
The full moon is a time of intensity and revelation. It brings everything to the surface (or everything to LIGHT)—wanted or not—making it a powerful moment for:
Releasing limiting beliefs and emotional baggage
Checking in with your new moon intentions
Celebrating abundance and gratitude
Amplifying spiritual practices (charging crystals, full moon rituals, etc.)
It aligns with the element of fire—bringing transformation, passion, and heightened intuition. You might feel extra social or energized, making it a great time for community gatherings.
Waning Moon: Reflect and Let Go
As the moon shrinks, it calls you inward. This is a period for:
Releasing what no longer serves you
Clearing emotional, mental, and physical clutter
Ending toxic relationships or habits
Rest and preparation for the next cycle
Spiritual practices like cord-cutting, journaling, and cleansing rituals (hello, smoke clearing!) work beautifully during this phase.
Eclipses: Cosmic Plot Twists
Eclipses bring fated changes and shake-ups. Solar eclipses (during new moons) push us toward external changes, while lunar eclipses (during full moons) are all about inner transformations. If life suddenly feels chaotic during an eclipse season, buckle up—something major is shifting for your highest good.
Make it Your Own
Yes, moon phases hold meaning, but ultimately, your intuition is your guide. If you feel called to manifest under a full moon, do it. If you want to release something on a waxing moon, go for it. The moon is here to support you—not box you into a rigid structure.
So go forth, dance under the moonlight, howl if you must, and make this practice your own.
