What are the phases of the moon and what do they mean in tradition?

Why the moon has phases

The moon doesn't make its own light. As it orbits Earth we see different amounts of its sunlit half. At new moon it sits roughly between us and the Sun, so its lit side faces away; at full moon it is opposite the Sun and we see the whole lit face. One cycle, called a synodic month, takes about 29.5 days.

The eight phases in tradition

• New moon: intentions and beginnings; a quiet, dark night.
• Waxing crescent: first steps; hope.
• First quarter: decisions and effort.
• Waxing gibbous: refining and patience.
• Full moon: gratitude, celebration, release; a popular night for charging crystals.
• Waning gibbous: sharing and thanks.
• Last quarter: forgiveness and clearing out.
• Waning crescent (balsamic): rest before the next cycle.

Using the cycle

Many people keep it simple: write an intention at the new moon and look back on it at the full moon. Our Moon page shows today's real phase for the UK and the next full and new moon dates. These are traditional and spiritual associations shared for interest, not health or medical claims.