Using Moon Phases to Time Magick
The term moon phase refers to the part of the moon's face that you see illuminated in the night sky. The relative positions of the sun, moon, and earth shift as the moon orbits the earth, causing the changing phases. In the northern United States, the waxing moon appears as an arc of light on the right side of the moon's face (the left side is dark); as it moves toward its full phase, the arc of light grows. During the waning moon, the light portion is on the left and diminishes as the cycle moves toward new.
For the purposes of magick, witches are mainly interested in four lunar phases: new, waxing, full, and waning. Astronomically these phases are further defined as the new (or dark) moon, waxing crescent, first quarter, waxing gibbous, full moon, waning gibbous, third quarter, and waning crescent.
The span of time between full moons — called the synodic month — is actually longer than the amount of time it takes the moon to circle the earth. That's because while the moon is orbiting the earth, the earth is also revolving around the sun.
Witches work with lunar energy by doing magick to encourage growth during the moon's waxing phase (the two weeks between the new and full moons). This includes spells to increase prosperity, attract a romantic partner, improve career opportunities, boost vitality, and enhance creativity of all kinds. During the waning moon, they focus on magick for decrease and endings. Spells might be done to end an unwanted relationship, let go of an old habit or behavior, lose weight, or cut costs or responsibilities at work.
To fine-tune your magick, look at both the moon's phase and its zodiac sign. For instance, a new moon in Taurus is a better time to begin a financial venture than when the new moon is in Pisces. If you begin something on the new moon, you'll see development two weeks later when the moon is full. The full moon's bright light also illuminates your path, so you can see what steps to take next on your journey.
