The Full Moon – The moon is full when it forms a perfectly round sphere and its light shines brightly in the night sky.  The full moon actually spans a period of roughly three days before and three days after.  Some say, this is the perfect time for transformation and fertility spells, for purging spells that will release those things that may be inhibiting spiritual growth.  The full moon represents the Goddess as Mother.

The New (or Dark) Moon – This moon is hidden as it is directly between the Earth and the Sun. During this phase of the moon, some say, rituals are held that involve new beginnings, birth, re-birth and new undertakings.  It is a time for the shadow self – looking within, meditating and introspection.

The Waxing Moon -  Because this moon grows larger from right to left, it is sometimes called the right hand moon, resembling the crescent curve of the thumb and index finger on the right hand.  This phase of the moon, lasting about 14 days, some say, is the time for rituals that draw things to you, bringing you growth, positive change, harmony, peace, protection, healing and love.  The Waxing Moon represents the Goddess as Maiden.

The Waning Moon – This moon decreases in size from right to left and is sometimes called the left hand moon because of the  resemblance of the crescent curve of the thumb and index finger on the left hand.  This phase also lasts 14 days and as some say, it is the time for banishing negativity and disease, breaking bad habits, dissolving destructive addictions and relationships and using one’s deep intuition to learn what must be banished from our lives.  The Waning Moon represents the Goddess as Crone.