A Light Path

8 Phases of the Moon

8 Phases of the Moon
Full Moon on Camano Island, Washington.
The Full Moon is one of the 8 Phases of the Moon

The moon is responsible for creating the tides on planet Earth, so it’s not surprising it can be a major influence in our lives as well. Full moons are a time to sweep things out of our lives, while new moons provide opportunities for new things. One of the 8 phases of the Moon.

So, I’ve hear of four moon phases. But, what are the eight 8 Moon Phases? The same four you are familiar with New Moon, First Quarter, Full Moon and Last Quarter. For example: these represent the beginning of each season (Spring, Summer, Fall, and Winter). Additionally, there are four more Moon phases that are often referred to as the cross quarter points. And, the four additional Moon phase are Crescent, Gibbous, Disseminating and Balsamic phases. These are often referred to as the cross quarter points or mid season.

  • New: 0° – 45°, New Beginnings, Spring, Birth
  • Crescent: 45° – 90°, Opportunities open up, Forward Movement
  • First Quarter: 90° – 135°, Adjustment, Build, Action
  • Gibbous: 135° -180°, Adapt, Analyze and Reflect 
  • Full: 180° – 225° – Illuminate, Fulfillment and Clarify
  • Disseminating: 225° – 270°, Distribute, Share and Communicate ideas
  • Last Quarter: 270° – 315°, Revise and Reevaluate, Reorient
  • Balsamic: 315° – 360°, Transform, go within, Envision

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Demetra George has taught me a great deal about the Moon Phases over the years. Her book “Finding our way Through the Dark” has 2 chapters about the phases of the moon. I recommend this book for further studies on phases of the moon.