The Moon Phases
In Astrology, the Moon is regarded as an important planet and governs matters connected with the Mother, women in general, the public, one's emotions and feelings; as well as habits. One should never underestimate the power of the Moon. It affects our emotions - our own watery makeup - just as it affects the tides of the oceans. Another illusion in astrology (and there are many) is that just as it is always in different phases, and always looks different, in reality it is always the same. The Moon is profoundly important in all our lives.
The Moon rules the sign of the zodiac, Cancer and is said to be exalted in the sign of Taurus. The Moon is important because it has a profound effect on the Earth as a planet; as well as all life upon Her surface - including us humans.
The Moon actually has eight phases - New, Crescent, First Quarter, Gibbous, Full, Disseminating, Third Quarter and Balsamic. An astrologer can tell a lot about a person from just the phase that the Moon was in when they were born.
NEW MOON
This is when the Sun and Moon are together (in conjunction). This is an excellent time for spiritual practices, and also to begin things; plan and set new things in motion. This is the time to make a list of what you want to achieve. It's also a receptive time when one can be open to new ideas and ready to overcome old, unhealthy habits with new ones. Because of this, this time of the month can be very positive for people.
The New Moon or "low ebb" of the Moon prepares us for the beginning of a new cycle and we may feel greater energy and vitality.
If you find that the New Moon falls on a particular planet in your horoscope - especially if it's a Lunar Eclipse - you will feel this sense of new beginnings and rejuvenation relating to the nature of the planet and the house in which it falls. For example, if the New Moon falls on Jupiter which is the Tenth House (career House) in your horoscope, it's a good time to try and expand your career goals, be open to opportunities for growth in this area. If it is an eclipse the effect is magnified every more.
Coming Soon: upcoming Moon Phases and Eclipses for 2015
FULL MOON
A Full Moon is when the Sun is opposite the Moon and so all of the Moon's surface is visible. This is an excellent time to bring things to a conclusion; often you will find your plans are brought to a completion. It's also a time of endings and you may find that your plans are either successful, or if they were built on shaky ground, may wash out completely.
The closer we get to Full Moon, the more we can absorb things as this is the gathering phase of the Moon. It's time for you to gather your strength; as well as your ideas and plans. At the "high tide" of the Full Moon, things set in motion at the New Moon tend to come to a completion or maturation. Important decisions are made now as one sees a situation in full light. We tend to be more self-absorbed from now until the next New Moon as we're intent on tying up loose ends. We feel prompted to action. It is time to reap the harvests.
Then after the Full Moon until the New Moon, the Moon begins decreasing in light as we come into the waning Moon. This is a good time for detoxifying, for diet, for getting rid of clutter. It is the "putting out" phase. Then, the closer we get to the next New Moon, the more energy we expend. Depending upon other factors, the waning Moon can be the best time for surgery. Try and make sure the Moon is not in the sign that corresponds to the body part to be operated on or that Mercury or Mars are not retrograde and a few other pointers.
BLUE MOON
Everyone's heard the expression "once in a blue moon". It is when we have four full moons in a season instead of the usual three, so it is rare, hence the expression. Also when there are two full moons falling in the same month. When this happens, the second one is called a Blue Moon. The next one is on July 31, 2015. The effect of a Blue Moon is similar to a Full Moon.
