The phases of the moon have always been with us - visible in the sky, tangible within us. You may have experienced it yourself: some nights you find it harder to fall asleep, your dreams are more intense or you feel troubled inside without knowing why. A look at the sky can provide the answer.
The moon goes through different phases from new moon to full moon and back again in around 29-30 days - the so-called moon phase cycle. And even if we often only perceive it as a silent companion in the night sky, it has far more than "just" an effect on the tides. Many people report that their sleep, mood or energy levels change during the moon cycle - sometimes subtly, sometimes very clearly.
In this article, we look together at the different phases of the moon and what they can trigger in us. You will find out how the moon affects your sleep, your well-being and even your inner balance - and how you can learn to live in harmony with its rhythm.
Content
2. how the phases of the moon can influence us
3. the phases of the moon and the female cycle
4 The spiritual significance of the phases of the moon
What are moon phases? And how many moon phases are there?
The lunar cycle has a duration of about 29.5 days - one lunar month. This consists of 4 moon phases. You can find an explanation of the individual phases here:
- New moon: At new moon, the moon is between the earth and the sun. This means that its illuminated side is not visible from the earth - the sky remains moonless. This phase marks the beginning of a new lunar cycle.
- Waxing moon (first quarter): In the days following the new moon, the moon slowly becomes visible again - first as a narrow crescent moon, then as a half-full moon. This is known as the waxing moon, as the visible part grows continuously.
- Full moon: The moon is directly opposite the sun and is fully illuminated by it. It appears as a round, bright disk in the sky. The full moon is the middle of the cycle and reaches its peak of brightness here.
- Waning moon (last quarter): After the full moon, the visible area of the moon decreases again. During this moon phase, the moon appears increasingly "bitten off" until only a narrow crescent remains - shortly before the next new moon.
How are the phases of the moon created?
The phases of the moon are created by the interaction of the sun, earth and moon. As the moon orbits the earth, only half of it is illuminated by the sun. Depending on the position of the moon in relation to the earth, we see different amounts of this illuminated side.
If the moon is between the earth and the sun, we see its dark side - it is new moon. If it continues to move, the illuminated part becomes visible: the moon increases in size. At full moon, the earth is between the sun and the moon - the bright side is fully visible. After that, the visible part decreases again until the cycle starts all over again with the next new moon.
This constant change creates the fascinating rhythm of the moon phases.
How the phases of the moon can influence us
Even if there is no definitive scientific proof, many people report noticeable changes in their sleep, mood or energy levels - depending on which phase the moon is in. After all, the moon not only affects the sea, but also our bodies - which are also largely made up of water. Perhaps these are ancient rhythms to which we still react intuitively.
New moon
Many people report feeling a heightened need to withdraw and rest during the new moon. It is a good time for reflection and a fresh start - because the cycle of the moon also starts all over again. Your sleep could also be particularly deep during this phase and your dreams more restrained.
Tip: Use this phase to recuperate and to return to yourself. Things like meditation on the Shakti meditation cushion or on the Shakti Mat, yoga and breathing exercises to relax can be particularly beneficial and helpful.
Waxing moon
When the moon is waxing, many people report that their drive and energy levels also increase. They often feel more motivated to get things moving or complete tasks and are also more efficient at sports. How the waxing moon affects sleep can vary from person to person - however, it is often reported that the quantity and quality of sleep tends to decrease.
Tip: Use the extra energy and drive to be productive and get things done that you wouldn't otherwise find the energy for. But also use it to do things that bring you joy and fulfill you.
Full moon
Many people struggle with feelings of restlessness and irritability during this phase of the moon. This can also be attributed to poor sleep, which causes problems for many during the full moon. People often sleep worse or dream more intensely during this phase. However, it is also said that intuition is at its strongest during this phase and that not only emotional lows but also highs can be experienced.
Tip: To relieve stress and reduce irritability, we recommend regular sessions on your Shakti Mat. Acupressure can release tension and promote well-being.
Waning moon
The effect of the waning moon is the opposite of that of the waxing moon. Many people report a decrease in energy levels, but are also better able to let go of disturbing thoughts, habits and baggage. Sleep often becomes calmer again and it is said that the body can regenerate particularly well during this phase.
Tip: Help your body to let go and relax by incorporating yoga or massages into your daily routine, for example.
The phases of the moon and the female cycle
The lunar cycle and the female cycle are not only similar in length - both last around 28 to 29 days - but also appear to be connected on an energetic level. Some people even believe that the menstrual cycle imitates the phases of the moon to a certain extent:
- Menstruation = new moon: This phase is a time of retreat, rest and regeneration. Energy levels are often rather low, you are often tired and may feel an increased need to rest - just as the moon "retreats" at the new moon.
- Follicular phase = waxing moon: New energy returns. Creativity, drive and confidence grow - matching the increasing brightness of the moon.
- Ovulation = full moon: This is when the cycle reaches its peak. You feel alive, often even a little restless - because like the full moon in the sky, your inner energy is now fully developed.
- Luteal phase = waning moon: Like the moon, which is slowly "receding", your energy also begins to turn inwards. It is a phase of transition - from external activity to inner reflection. You may need more rest, become more sensitive and want to set boundaries.
The extent to which there really is a connection here is a question on which science still disagrees today. The effect of the phases of the moon on our body, our emotions or the cycle remains an interplay of observation, experience and intuition. However, many people are firmly convinced that there is some kind of connection.
The spiritual significance of the moon phases
In many spiritual traditions, the moon stands for the feminine, the intuitive and cyclical life. Its phases remind us that nothing is constant - everything is in motion, in flux. Those who live mindfully with the phases of the moon learn to perceive these natural rhythms in their own everyday life. New moon days, for example, invite contemplation and reflection - ideal for journaling or meditation on your Shakti Mat. The full moon, on the other hand, brings energy and clarity, perfect for invigorating yoga sessions.
It's not about perfection or a fixed plan - but about lovingly finding our way back to our own center. The moon shows us that every cycle has lows and highs, and a fresh start can be exactly what we need to develop our full potential.
Conclusion
The phases of the moon accompany us through the month as a gentle but powerful rhythm. Whether in sleep, mood or cycle: many people experience how strongly this natural rhythm is interwoven with their own lives. Even if not everything is scientifically proven, consciously engaging with the lunar cycle can lead to more mindfulness, balance and inner clarity. Those who begin to live in harmony with the phases often discover more connection to themselves - and to the world around them.