Skip to main content

Free guide

Living with the moon's rhythm

The moon moves through eight phases about every 29.5 days. Lots of people use that rhythm to plan their month: begin things at the new moon, let things go at the full moon. This guide shows you how, simply.

Woman standing on a beach under silver moonlight

You don't have to bloom in winter

If you're tired of pushing all the time, you're not alone. Working with the moon is one way to give your month a shape: a time to begin, a time to act, a time to rest.

It isn't magic. It's a gentle structure, and many people find it helps them be kinder to themselves.

The four main phases

  • New MoonPlant seeds
  • First QuarterTake action
  • Full MoonCelebrate and harvest
  • Last QuarterRelease and rest

Two simple rituals

  1. 1

    New moon: set an intention

    The sky is dark and quiet. Write down one thing you want to grow this month, and take one small step toward it.

  2. 2

    Full moon: let something go

    Everything is lit up. Name what is holding you back, write it down, and release it in whatever way feels right.

The moon's sign, your mood

The moon changes sign every two to three days. Many astrologers read it as the emotional weather of those days.

  • Aries MoonImpulsive and bold
  • Cancer MoonEmotional and cosy
  • Scorpio MoonIntense and deep
  • Pisces MoonDreamy and intuitive

Questions you might have

What are the 8 moon phases?

The 8 moon phases are: New Moon (new beginnings), Waxing Crescent (setting intentions), First Quarter (taking action), Waxing Gibbous (refinement), Full Moon (manifestation & release), Waning Gibbous (gratitude), Last Quarter (letting go), and Waning Crescent (rest). The complete cycle takes about 29.5 days.

How do I manifest during a New Moon?

To manifest during New Moon: find a quiet space, write clear intentions for what you want to create, speak them aloud or meditate on them, and take one small action toward your goal. The dark moon energy supports planting seeds for new beginnings.

What should I do during a Full Moon?

Full Moon is for celebration and release. Celebrate what you've manifested since New Moon, then release what no longer serves you: write it down and burn it safely. Charge crystals in moonlight, make moon water, and practice gratitude.

The moon gives you a rhythm. Your year gives it a shape.

If you like working with the moon, you may love seeing your whole year laid out: your themes month by month, and your power days, ready to drop into your phone calendar.