Many believe one of the easiest ways to connect to astrology is through writing. More specifically, using the technique of journaling. Historically, societies across the globe have used journals to better understand, connect, and explain the world around them. Therefore, it only makes sense that this idea transfers to astrology as well.

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For many beginners the first thing they are told to do, in order to understand the belief system, is to start journaling. This is because it is the simplest way to track the alignments and changes in your life and compare these what is happening in the solar system. This is done by, first, writing down what emotions, changes, good or bad experiences, etcetera had happened through the course of the day. Then, this is compared to the different astrological events happening during that day, such as the moon phase, any planets in retrograde, as well as their zodiac sign in relation to these elements. As seen in the picture above, an astrology journal is being used to better understand the zodiac elements and definitions. This highlights another popular use of the journal is to write out definitions of basic ideas in astrology, like the big three or natal charts, in a way that is understandable to the writer. There are plenty of online resources that offer advice on how to start astrology journals, and how they can then be personalized from there.

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While any empty journal can be used to start this journaling technique, there are countless pre-produced books that have advice and help with them, which make them a popular choice for beginners. However one chooses to start their log, it is typically recommended they make a diagram of their natal chart in the opening cover or pages. As pictured to the left, this chart provides the basic details of your personalized zodiacs. In turn, this is then a quick way to compare any information that is documented in the journal with your zodiac signs. After these two steps, it is also common to log what the moon phase is. This allows the writer to see any repetitive results that arises during particular phases of the moon cycle.

After these initial steps are taken, there are many other writing techniques used to better the understanding and personal connection to astrology. Some of the most popular are using zodiac prompts, which can be found through online resources. These use the most common characteristics of your big three and allow the writer to understand how these characteristics plan into their life. For example, Aries are said to be very headstrong and ambitious. So, a journal prompt could be to “consider the last time they were so passionate or determined about a situation. What made you so excited about it? How can you harness that determination for future projects?” This allows the Aries to write out how their zodiac can be seen in their demeanor, and how they can use these traits for positive changes. Depending on if the journal is being used for spirituality as well, crystals, incense, or spiritual holidays can also be included throughout entries.

Overall, an astrology journal is a tool to better connect to yourself while acknowledging your faults and highlighting your good traits.

 

 

 

 

 

While modern astrology has formed a highly developed culture that it is now typically identified with, it has strong origins in many countries around the world. Each one of these countries has its own particular culture, and manner in which they honor astrology. This has led to an eventual combination that results in what western countries now identify to be modern astrology. By taking the time to understand where the fundamental beliefs originate, the practice as a whole can be better understood.

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Mesopotamia

Babylonian history gives the most insight into the origins of astrology. While it has been briefly mentioned in previous blog posts, it is important to note that Mesopotamian astrology used gods and goddesses. While this has aged out of most modern beliefs, the Babylonians associated a god to each star sign and planet. As pictured above, a worshiping of these said gods can be seen carved into stone. While this sector of practice is not commonplace in western beliefs, they also used planets and moon phases. Therefore, this creates horoscopic astrology. As this idea became more developed and was perfected in the following centuries, the use of horoscopes has become one of the largest and longest lasting components of modern astrology.

 

China                                                                                     Photo Credit

Another culture that has contributed greatly to the rise of astrology is the Chinese Zodiacs. This system assigns twelve animals to each of the twelve signs and heavily relies on the concept of Ying and Yang. As pictured to the right, there are many similarities to the astrological wheel used in America, but with the inclusion of the symbol in the center and the aforementioned animals. The basic philosophy is the same, incorporating the use of zodiacs in daily life to provide answers on society, as well as personal behaviors and questions. The main difference is that in China the system is a twelve-year cycle, with each zodiac animal being assigned to a constantly differing year. However, in western astrology it is a twelve-month cycle, with each zodiac sign being assigned to a repeating month.

Rome & Greece

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In the sense of the Romans and the Greek, astrology played a fundamental role in philosophy and daily life. However, these countries found their influence from the constellations. This is the aspect that western astrology has resonated with the most and is continually used in common practices. With the help of many important philosophers, such as Empedocles and Aristarchus, society was able to make correct calculations about Earth, Sky, planets and their surrounding stars. With these math advancements, the culture developed the belief of zodiac signs and better developed horoscopes. These zodiac signs, as displayed on the ancient roman globe pictured to the left, are the same signs modern astrology uses today.

Overall, it has taken centuries and eras for Western Astrology to become as developed and sophisticated as we view it to be today. With the help from countless cultures, such as the Babylonians, Chinese, Roman, and Greek, facets of theories have come together to make a melting pot of beliefs that thousands of people still believe in today.

Alternative medicine, a form of healing practices that vary across the globe but are always present within all cultures. One particular method of alternative medicine that has taken America by storm is the idea of Crystal Healing. As with all forms of non-medical healing, it is hard to be scientifically proven yet still seems to hold truth throughout many cultures. The use of crystals with the intent of self-transformation has strong ties to the astrological community.

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One of the first ways society is introduced to the basics of crystal healing starts with the idea of birthstones. As displayed in the chart to the right, the twelve months are assigned a gemstone that aligns with the represented values of that zodiac’s sun sign. These twelve gemstones are most commonly used in jewelry, being a common selling point. However, using crystals for the purpose of self-healing is something that has been circulating earth as far back as crystals have been found. Whether it be writers from the middle age or ancient Chinese healing rituals, research shows that humans have always been drawn to these formations from the earth.

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After understanding the basis of the belief, it is easy to connect the use of crystals to astrology. As previously discussed, the moon, stars, and their light are said to hold and transfer energy. Energy is a non-destroyable wavelength that is constantly being altered, which can then be manipulated with intent. This intent is then targeted to better the life of the believer. Crystals are just another mode or extension used to target energy and create an intent to better oneself. One of the simplest branches of astrology is a person’s three main signs, their sun, moon, and ascendant sign. While all crystals are said to be able to hold and transfer energy, specific crystals are particularly useful for targeted intents. This has led to the creation of endless information on how each crystal best works for each zodiac sign, as demonstrated to the left. Whether you go to a metaphysical shop or browse an online market, it is easy to find crystals that are bound to help whatever ailments plagues you, mentally or physically, based on your astrological chart.

To further the connection between crystal healing and astrology, many believe in cleansing their crystals using moonlight. In the previous blog post, the idea of creating moon water by cleansing water using moonlight was explained. The method of cleansing crystals is generally the same. As astrology heavily overlaps with spirituality, many who partake in this alternative medicine also cleanse their crystals using incense, smoke, meditation, or journaling.

Overall, the use of crystals to better one’s life is an idea that has been present throughout cultures for centuries and continues to spread throughout American beliefs in recent decades. Used in many aspects of lives, such as jewelry, media, cultural identity, or just general interest, crystals seem to constantly hold the attention of society. Whether alternative medicine holds truth in its actions or is simply pseudoscience, it has shown undeniable positive effects in its users lives.

 

Once you have a general understanding of how manifestation works, there are countless methods that can be used to take action. Depending on where you look, it is likely you’ll find a wide variety of techniques that are all relatively interlocking. With the purpose of staying true to the topic of the blog, this post will highlight a few of the most popular ways to manifest using spirituality and astrology.

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Manifestation is using intent to will your desires into reality. Therefore, one of the most popular techniques on social media is to create a manifestation journal. This is similar to keeping a daily journal, but instead the focus of the writing is on what you hope to achieve, rather than writing about what has happened. When this manifestation is used with the phases of the moon, the intentions are able to be better visualized and acted out. As previously discussed in a prior post, the cycle of the moon entails countless opportunities to manifest with a specific intent. As a result, using a manifestation journal while also being aware of the moon phase has become increasingly popular with new age spirituality.

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Another method that has grown in popularity recently is to use moon water. Upon first acknowledgment many write this off as gimmicky, however the ideals behind the technique may truly be useful for manifesting. In astrology, water is receptive. It has the ability to hold and transfer energy. Therefore, theoretically, one can transfer the energy they desire by using moon water as a vessel. The baseline recipe for this is simple, as you take a container of clean water, state your intent of using the water, then place it outside or in a window where it will absorb the moonlight. In the morning, this water can then be used in countless ways, such as cooking, bathing, or drinking it straight. This is most often done during a full moon, as this is when manifestation is the strongest. Further instruction is pictured to the right, as the four main phases correlate to specified results.

The final method to discuss is, arguably, the easiest. This is through words of affirmation. Manifestation takes place in this technique by verbally saying what one hopes to happen and believing it will. Overall, this truly is just the definition of manifestation in action. After repeating your intent, it is then left to the universe to let these said desires come to life. It is common to use this technique in combination with other methods, such as a journal or through the moon cycles.

All in all, manifestation has a long, intertwining history with astrology. Given the easily understandable instructions and backfire proof approaches, it comes as no surprise that the art of manifesting continues to gain traction in western society. Before preforming any exercise of the belief, it is important to weed out false information and do adequate research to ensure no harm is done. However, after acknowledging the disclaimer, manifestation is an open astrological and spiritual practice that continues to gain an increasing following.

The law of attraction– or manifestation– has been making its rounds on social media. Whether you browse on Tik Tok, Instagram, or Twitter, you cannot go long without seeing a tutorial on manifestation. A seemingly easy and simple way to get anything you want, by using only the power of your mind. When looking through an objective view, this technique has the same ideals as a religious person crossing their hands in prayer or an atheist crossing their fingers with the purpose of hoping. This similarity is found in the idea that a person is targeting their intent on a particular idea. The minor differences cause disparities between each religion, or lack of religion, but when boiled down this hope and intent all surrounds the idea of the law of attraction.

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The Theory of Manifestation

While this idea of manifesting becomes increasingly popular in America, the origins can be traced back to the traditions of Hinduism in India. Pictured to above is a traditional manifestation tradition and celebration. While manifestation techniques in America often do not look like this, it is important to appreciate the origins of the practice to avoid appropriation of the culture and religion. This occurrence is common in many practices of new age spiritualism, as the beliefs almost always overlap with some practice of the Hindu. The backbone of said theory is the law of attraction, being defined as the philosophy that positive thoughts bring positive results and therefore negative thoughts bring negative results into a person’s life. This law has not been scientifically proven, but there is a plethora of information that allow the possibility of the law to be believed.

The Technique of Manifestation                                                   Photo Credit

After understanding the theory of the law of attraction, the true action of manifestation can be better understood. Most plainly put, manifesting is speaking about and believing the change you want has already happened. If you want a raise, you will write or think I am so appreciative of my new raise rather than I will be so appreciative of the raise I need. With the sudden popularity of the idea, comes an influx of books and websites that aid in the practice of manifestation. However, it is important to note that there are countless authors who take part in the pseudoscientific ideas of the law, so as a new reader it is important to do research on what is being presented as truthful information. There are countless techniques on how to take part in this action, such as meditation, scripting, journaling or dreaming, but it all comes down to the same thought process. The cycle to the right displays this visually; as one thinks and desires a change in their life, takes action on this want, and then finds fulfillment in the results. And as desires continue, the cycle repeats.

 

Overall, some will say there is overwhelming proof behind the idea of manifestation, while others will deny the validity of the practice. As with all other spiritual and religious beliefs, it simply comes down to what one chooses to believe in.

 

As a new hot topic gains traction on social media platforms such as Instagram, Tik Tok, and Pinterest it seems as though lines get more and more blurred. This leads to the question: Is astrology the same thing as being Spiritual? The simple answer is a straightforward no. Astrology is directly related to the study and interest in planets in relation to earth and humans. Spirituality is the belief system surrounding the souls of humans and animals. However, astrology is often a factor the manner in which spiritual people practice their faith. This is where the overlap and confusion stems, but this also allows for a new form of self-expression.

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The recent, and growing, new age of spiritual awakenings and awareness has led to a boom in the interest of astrology. With the help from online guides and how-tos the concept of spirituality has become easily accessible and more widely understood. One direct link that has been made between the two subjects starts with the ideas of chakras, more specifically the seven chakras in the human body. As displayed by the designated shapes on the image to the left, the chakras are a common factor discussed in spirituality. The system of chakras originated in India, as did many components of what is now labeled as modern spirituality. However, this can also be connected back to astrology, as well. It is heavily thought that certain zodiac signs are more closely related to specific chakras, and therefore this leads to a better understanding of what is most important and influential to oneself. The general belief follows the lines of, by assessing which ideals are more applicable to oneself, you can gain a deeper understanding of yourself. This creates a link to the idea of spiritual astrology.

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As commonly discussed throughout previous blog posts, all twelve zodiac signs carry their own qualities that are specific to themselves, and vary in situations such as rising, moon, and sun signs. This is representative of each sign carrying and having its own “energy.” One of the most important ideals behind spirituality is that everything on earth carries energy. This energy is transferable and obtainable. Therefore, by believing that zodiac signs are associated with specific energies, one can then assess themselves and become more understanding and openminded about their situations. This, in itself, is an important component to beginning a spiritual journey. The diagram pictured to the right is a visual way to understand the alignment between the idea of energy and humans, through a spiritual point of view.

All in all, the influx of spiritual astrology has led to a new method of understanding oneself. As resources, such as books and readings, expand in the knowledge of this subject, there is no surprise that people all over the world have found interest in this age-old phenomenon. While there is a distinct difference in the definition of spirituality and astrology, there are many people who believe in combining the power of these two ideas, to create a new form of consciousness and self-expression.

 

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When talking about astrology, the first holiday that comes to mind is Halloween. After that, no holiday in western culture really resonates with society in making a connection to astrology. However, everyone’s favorite holiday season actually has strong ties with astrological events, and all that correlates with it.

This can be shown in the historical origins of the holiday, and how different cultures and religions celebrate and honor the event.

 

Photo Source (Pagan Yule Tradition)

 

Origins:

As mentioned– many times throughout this blog– Celtic faith, Paganism, and astrology are almost always connected. A typical western Christmas includes elements and events such as Christmas trees, yuletide, and giving gifts to friends and loved ones. For generations before the Christian church adopted this holiday as their own, all these celebratory acts were fostered by the Pagan faith.

 

 

Christmas aligns with the winter solstice. There are two solstices a year, a previous blog post having been dedicated to the summer solstice. The winter solstice is the longest day of the year and historically celebrated by pagans around December 22nd. This documented celebration is notable for its worship of the evergreen tree. This tree was seen as important, considering it was the only tree that was green all throughout the winter. The act of decorating the tree with ornaments was evolved as Roman tradition took hold during later years.  Similarly, the Roman Pagans celebrated the Saturnalia Festival through December 17th to the 23rd. The purpose of this celebration being to honor the ancient gods, thus directly associating itself with the twelve zodiac signs. This festival consisted of many outdated acts, such as sacrifices of pigs and communal orgies, yet it also featured the acts of giving gifts and performing and singing on streets, going door to door.  However, around 45 BCE, Julius Caesar circulated the use of a new calendar. This changed the date of all pagan holidays during the winter solstice to December 25th. Overall, the winter solstice traditions reflect onto what is considered to be modern Christmas celebrations.

 

Winter Solstice Traditions:                                                                                                 

There are many holiday traditions that reflect honoring the winters solstice and the new beginnings that are associated with this astrological event. One example of this is handmade decorations. These can be anything from creating garlands for your house to hanging up paper dolls and snowflakes. Another common practice is making yule logs. Whether this is being used for the Christan purpose of advent, decoration, or warmth, the name gives way to its solstice origins. Another, very identifiable, tradition is the act of a Christmas feast. This meal typical is a gathering of family and close friends and eating seasonal foods. Historically this meal included chicken, ham, root vegetables, and desserts. These foods are still associated with the holiday season and very common to eat on or around Christmas.

Overall, at his point in time, within modern society, most people choose not to indulge in the original astrological significance of this holiday, but rather unknowingly participate in traditions with astrological origins.

 

 

 Photo Source (Yuletide Card)

In honor of this week’s upcoming holiday, it’s finally time to make a post dedicated to Halloween! As with many traditions and holidays with Pagan, Celtic, or Roman roots, astrology is closely connected. In Halloween’s case, the popular statement is that it is a Pagan tradition that was popularized and monetized in America, but the story is much more complex and interconnected than just that. While the celebration on the 31st of October is, in fact, Pagan, elements of Roman Lemuria, Celtic Samhain, and the catholic church all play into modern day Halloween.

Pictured: Modern Samhain Celebration

The contribution of Zodiac and Astrology are taken into consideration in the time of year and the annual date. Halloween- or more officially, All Hallows’ Eve- takes place on October 31st. According to the Pagan Calander, November 1st is the celebration of Samhain, but the celebration starts the evening of the day prior. As pictured above, this is a tradition that is still practiced in its authentic form by the Celtic community. This tradition is a result of the midway point between the autumnal equinox and winter solstice. Therefore, the basic idea is comparable to the same reason for the summer solstice, as discussed in a previous blog post. Elements of Samhain include traveling door-to-door of nearby houses to honor the dead, by singing. To scare away unwanted spirits, these singers wore costumes. Sound familiar yet? While the reasoning for celebration might not be the same today, many traditional acts have carried on into the American tradition. Astrologically, this takes place during the season of Scorpio. Being the introduction into the darker half of the year, this is seen as a time for self-introspection and new self-discovery. Each year different astrological aspects coincide, and this year has many important events such as eclipses and mars retrograde.

However, the Roman celebration of Lemuria and the influence of the catholic church also contribute to modern day Halloween. During the peak of the roman empire, there was an annual festival called Lemuria. The original dates of this were the 9th, 13th, and 11th of May. This was a time for the citizens to exorcise demons from their homes and communities. This included a feast to honor the catholic saints, eventually earning the name “All Saints Day.” The church appreciated the popularity of the event and made the executive decision to move the date from May to November 1st. The goal for this was to wipe out and minimize the celebration of Samhain, as it went against the beliefs of the church.

Pictured: Painting of a Traditional Lemuria Practice

Of course, these two events were seen as able to be commercialized, and therefore America saw this as an opportunity. Factors of both traditions were melded together to create the idea of trick-or-treating; the intent ultimately to increase candy and clothing sales. Halloween has become one of the most anticipated days of the year, and as time progresses many people start to find interest in the pagan roots of astrology around this time of year.

 

 

For this week’s blog, I thought we would go back to the beginning and take a look at how astrology arrived to what it has become today. The stars have been in the sky longer than human have populated the earth. All throughout this time as we know it humans have watched they sky, speculating and hypothesizing what was happening in the galaxies above them, and whether it was affecting how they lived. As a result of this phenomenon there isn’t one true place that invented the study of astrology, but rather many places that cultivated and bettered the practice over time. Before we get too deep, just as a refresher astrology is roughly defined as studying the influence of celestial events on human life. Historically it was not as deeply interpreted as it is today, but always studied. The best way to describe how this theory has become as developed as it is currently, is to give a general timeline.

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2,400-331 B.C. 

The Babylonians are credited with making many great societal advancements, many being is astrology and astronomy. While the first documented use of stars to track cycles was in 2,400-331 B.C., Babylon takes the credit of creating the zodiac wheel, as pictured to the left. This is the zodiac wheel we still currently use today, showing just how advanced and intriguing this theory has been form the beginning. The engraved stones that were used as a calendar featured the twelve houses and signs. 

 

331 B.C.-4th Century A.D.

When Babylon was overtaken by Alexander the Great, the theories that were invented by the previous rulers became much better developed. Advanced philosophy and understanding allowed the zodiacs to be given modern names and descriptions.

 

5th Century

With the fall of the Roman Empire, astrology as known by the western world was put to a halt. This created a 500 year pause on the western study of the stars but allowed advancement on the research of Greek astrology.

 

6th-15th Century (The Middle Ages) 

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With the Middle Ages came a flourish in Astrology. In this point in time, the study of the stars was ingrained in almost all aspects of life. It could be found in medical practice, mathematical studies, and the culture of the time. These main three components worked together to advance astrology to a level that was never comprehensible before. Math is heavily credited as allowing the medieval calendar to be as accurate as possible in their complex version of the astrological chart, as shown on the right. However, as western religion took hold of the population in the late 14th through early 15th centuries, astrology was attempted to be phased out of society.

 

19th Century

With the emergence of the new century, the interest in Astrology finally reemerged. Starting in England many fields of study brought this theory to the surface again, such as Psychologist and Philosophy.

 

20th-21st Century 

As seen today, astrology is a recognized component within society for many. This started to pick up significantly with the publication of horoscope in newspapers, magazine, and online. This can be considered a setback, though, as they are typically inaccurate and used solely for entertainment. Still, as accurate chart readings and education in the subject becomes more readily available, more people are able to realize the historical and practical significance of the subject.

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Almost everyone can remember back in elementary school when we had to learn about the phases of the moon, and it just being another piece of relatively useless knowledge. Yet, however many years later you find yourself from this initial learning experience, there is more to be said about the cycle of the moon. The moon has clearly been a recurring topic, so it’s due time to give her a post of her own (Historically, the moon is said to be feminine!). When speaking astrologically the moon governs, or is the leader of, subconscious emotions. Therefore, each phase the moon enters offers a new understanding just waiting to be uncovered. As mentioned in previous blog posts, each planet corresponds to one of the twelve zodiac signs. In this situation, the moon is the ruling planet of cancer. When looking even further, cancer deals with emotions and comfort we find in ourselves and those who surround us. Finally, coming back full circle, this is where the moon phases interact with out subconscious emotions. The moon is constantly changing, and constantly being tracked with moon phase calculators.

Manifestation plays a significant role in astrology. When dealing with any belief system, it only works if you are willing to put in the effort to believe. In the simplest terms possible, manifestations are just speaking what you want to happen out into the universe. There is so much information and learning that can be done about this, but for this blog we are just going to use some surface understanding to further explain the moon phases. Still, if you want to learn more there is plenty of places to learn how and why manifestation works. As with all other topics dealing with astrology, the results and experience is tailored to your individual self. That being said, the easiest way to learn is to give an explanation for each moon phase:

 

1. The New Moon                                                                                                                                            Photo Source

In this situation, the moon and sun are on the same side of the earth. When it is dark outside it appears almost completely black, or that there is ‘no moon outside.’ In astrological– or spiritual– terms this is representative of new beginnings. This is only fitting, as the moon enters her new cycle so does those that she reigns over. Here, you can metaphorically restart with a clean slate by pushing away old, unwanted thoughts and refreshing yourself with something new. This is a basic form of manifesting, envisioning what you hope to enter your life during this initiation of the new cycle.

2. Waxing Crescent

Next up is the crescent moon, when it appears as a tiny sliver in the sky. This peaking section of the moon is only the beginning of your journey, representing the hope for all the good thing to come. This appearance of the moon in the sky is also the appearance of your intentions in your life.

3. First Quarter Moon

Following the previous optimistic nature, this phase is the time when you might start to feel obstacles get in the way of your new plan. It is only natural for problems to arise, but if you view them as a test of your commitment, then they are truly no big issue. The moon is one quarter of the way through the cycle, and your intentions are finally starting to become a reality. As a result, there is a drive felt to get back on track and further your plans.

4. Waxing Gibbous

This is the phase before the full moon, and the perfect opportunity to take control of your situation. The previous phase gave way to mistakes, yet at this point there is time to get back on track. The next phase is considerably the most important, so truly engaging in your intentions and taking the seriously is the perfect way to celebrate the continuing cycle.

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5. The Full Moon

Manifestations have clearly been important throughout the entirety of the phases, but in this time should be more present than ever. There are plenty of full moon rituals that are commonplace during this period. Emotions are at an all-time high, creating a tension and necessary acknowledgment of what has been experienced so far.

6. Waning Gibbous

From here on out the moon will start to fade out. Now, there should be a grateful feeling in the air. You should be able to reap your successes, small or big, from your initial manifestations.

7. Last Quarter

The last quarter opposes the first quarter, so it only makes sense that the meaning it opposite as well. There aren’t any obstacles arising, so it gives an opportunity to let go of tension and stress by being thankful.

8. Waning Crescent

Finally, the moon has reached the end of the cycle, just the smallest bit left in the sky. Now is the time to give yourself a chance to rest and relax, as well as prepare for the upcoming cycle.

 

All in all, there is much to be learned from the moon!