New Moon
The new moon occurs when the sun and moon are in conjunction, occupying the same part of the sky from the viewpoint of earth. During this time the moon doesn't reflect the light of the sun, and so cannot be seen (except during a solar eclipse). The moon's un-illuminated side is facing the earth.

The new moon phase is the time of new beginnings. This is a time of growing energy, newness, rejuvenation, growth, renewal and hope. It is a good point to make changes in your life, such as ending bad habits or relationships.

Like the Maiden form of the Goddess and the season of Spring. The appearance of the new crescent moon was celebrated as a return of the moon from the dead.

Full Moon
The full moon occurs approximately fourteen days after the new moon, and is shaped like a complete disc. The moon's illuminated side is facing the earth. The full moon reflects the maximum light from the sun.

This moon phase is the time of abundance, ripening and completeness.

It is fertile and shining with the full power of feminine secrets and mysteries. Like the Mother form of the Goddess, and the season of Summer - pregnant with life.

A child born during a full moon should live a long and healthy life. This is the time when the moon's energy is strongest and full of magic power.

Waxing
The moon is growing larger in the sky, moving from a narrow crescent just after the new moon towards the full moon.

The waxing moon grows from right to left and is called the 'right-hand moon' - the crescent is like the curve between the right-hand's index finger and thumb.

Waning
The moon is decreasing in size, moving from the full moon back towards a crescent as the new moon approaches.

The waning moon decreases from right to left and is called the 'left-hand moon' because of its similarity to the curve on the left hand.

Energy is now waning with the moon herself, and is linked with the Crone aspect of the Goddess.

Gibbous
During the phases between the First Quarter and the full moon, and between the full moon and the Last Quarter, when more than half of the disc is illuminated.