Moon symbols and phases: What do they mean?

We are all connected to the rhythm of nature, and that includes the moon and its cycles. Often we are so busy being and doing, that we forget to slow down and benefit from the moon’s natural powers in our own life.

Have you ever noticed how you feel during certain phases of the moon? Or wondered what does the moon symbolize? The moon is more than just a satellite in the sky. It is innately connected to our emotional side, and even controls the tidal force. We can learn to become more intune and connected with the moon’s cycles and how they impact us.

Read on to learn more about moon phases and meanings, how these may affect you, and moon symbol meaning to look out for in your life.

The eight stages of the moon

The moon orbits the earth, which takes around 27 days, and a full lunar cycle is 29.5 days. As the moon completes a full orbit around the earth, it is hit by sunlight. This causes the moon to appear as different shapes, which are known as moon phases.

Here is a moon phases outline, along with the way in which each phase may impact us spiritually:

New Moon

During the New Moon phase, we cannot see the moon at all. This is because the illuminated side faces the sun and the side that is not lit up is facing earth. Spiritually, this darkness that we see represents the hidden parts of ourselves and our lives that we often don’t tend to. We may feel low in energy, so it’s the perfect time to take a pause and to reflect on your desires. Use this time for setting intentions, visualising, or creating a vision board.

Waxing Crescent Moon

After the New Moon, for those of us in the northern hemisphere light begins to glow in a crescent-shape on the right side of the moon. This phase is spiritually all about new beginnings and moving forward with your desires. The crescent moon symbol occurs in many religions, representing the life cycle.

First Quarter Moon

We have reached a quarter of the way through the moon cycle, where we see the whole right half of the moon glowing, with the left side still in darkness. The First Quarter Moon symbolises strength and determination. The energy around this phase is high and it’s a great time to focus, and move towards your goals with great intention.

Waxing Gibbous Moon

The moon appears greater to the eye at this stage, as it becomes more fully lit up by sunlight. Its energy is increasing and you may feel a burst of creativity as you continue to move things forward in your life. It’s an ideal time for cultivating the high energy that you feel and making things happen.

Full Moon

Half way through the lunar calendar, the moon is illuminated in its entirety. This is the time in which you may feel an intensity of emotions, as the moon’s energy and wholeness radiates throughout the night sky. Full moons are a great time to hold rituals, as a way to celebrate the things you are manifesting, and let go of the things that are no longer serving you.

Waning Gibbous Moon

As the light on the moon begins to reduce, this is a peaceful time for contemplation. After such high energy, it is time to go within and be ready for spiritual transformation. Spiritually, this phase is about rest and renewal so that you can receive clarity and make adjustments.

Last Quarter Moon

Visually, this moon stage appears as a half-lit moon, with the light falling on the opposite side to the First Quarter Moon. As the moon dims, you will continue to let go of the things that aren’t serving you, as you continue on your spiritual healing journey. You might feel compelled to clear out old beliefs, or physically declutter your home.

Waning Crescent Moon

This waning moon stage appears as a thin crescent of light to the left of the moon. The crescent moon spiritual meaning here is to rest and release, before the moon returns to its stage of darkness. The waning crescent stage invites you to be intentional in creating the space that your whole being needs.

What does the moon symbolise?

The moon symbol is commonly used in life to represent different things. Here are just a few definitions for the meaning of the moon symbol:

• Life cycles - in particular, the crescent moon symbol spiritual meaning is that of fertility and the life cycle. The moon’s cyclical nature is linked to rebirth.

• Femininity - the moon is commonly associated with feminine energy, and the triple moon symbol represents the Goddess.

• The sea - the moon represents the sea in many cultures, because of its gravitational pull on our tides.

• Emotions - the moon’s connection with the water and tides is likened to the ebb and flow of our emotions.

• Duality - the sun and the moon are natural opposites, just as hot is to cold, or light is to dark. The moon is used to represent the feminine aspect of duality.

Deepening your connection to the moon’s energy

Becoming more in tune with the lunar cycle is a wonderful way to set goals and strengthen your manifestation skills. Spiritual coaching can help you to deepen your connection to your heart, and become more in alignment with the moon’s energy. Book your free 30 minute consultation today to find out how the moon can help you to manifest your desires.