There are 3 main cycles which are the astrological cycle of the year, the seasons and the monthly Moon Cycle. The Moon cycle repeats about 29 days and it begins with the New Moon also known as the Dark Moon and ends on the Balsamic Moon. 

In the Moon's cycle their are Eight phases, starting with the first 4 phases which are in the Waxing period, following another 4 phases which are in the Waning period.

THE WAXING MOONS

New Moon: (1 - 3½ days after the Balsamic Moon) During this phase it's time to have a fresh start or a clean slate. It's a time to start manifesting your goals and dreams in this life. Plant the seeds of your future at this time. It will help to write a list or draw a picture and meditate on this, have a massage or have sex with a loved one, anything that makes you feel alive.

Crescent Moon: (3½ - 7 days after the New Moon) This is the time to open up and allow your dreams to come true. It's time to communicate your intentions to move forward towards your dreams.

First Quarter Moon: (7 - 10½ days after the New Moon) This phase is the time to take the action necessary to achieve your dreams, desires or what ever you intention you set during the New Moon phase.

Gibbous Moon: (10½ – 15 days after the New Moon) The Moon is not quite full yet, we call this the Gibbous phase and it occurs three days before the Full Moon. It's important gather information and analyse your progress and keep your mind on the prize, your dream and goals. Around this time it can get rough, but be patient and keep going.

THE WANING MOONS

Full Moon: (15 - 18 days after the New Moon) The Moon is at it's high point of the lunar cycle and is at it's brightest and biggest in the sky. The Full Moon is a time when we are accelerated, full of energy flowing, emotions are heightened, things are coming to a head now and we know it deep within us. At this time the moon as now at it's full manifesting power and it's also time to charge up your crystals.

Disseminating Moon: (3 ½ – 7 days after the full Moon) The Moon at this time will look similar to a gibbous Moon but the opposite side will be dark and the light will be decreasing. It's important to give your time for your emotions to rest after a Full Moon. It's not a time to start a project, it's a time to let go, release and let go anything that doesn't serve you in your life.

Last Quarter Moon: (7 - 10 days after the full Moon)The last quarter Moon is the second last moon phase, it will appear split but dark half on the right side. Recognise what didn't work for you during this lunar cycle and what did work and take the loose ends and finish up. During this time you should take the time to follow up or release what you've been working towards and also complete any activities you have going on.

Balsamic Moon: (10½ days after the Full Moon) This is the time for healing and self care, so you don't burn out completely, get ready for the new cycle. It's a time to get inspired and be ready to plan, and/or engage in rituals for what you need for this next Moon cycle.

Did you know, you can cleanse your Crystals with Moon light? Find out more about cleansing Crystals by reading our cleansing Crystals article by clicking here.