Cycles of the Moon

The Moon circles the earth roughly every 28 days.
Earth is moving as well in that meantime, so it takes roughly 29½ days for the Moon to reach the same point in the sky. (This is called a Lunation Cycle.) Each phase lasts roughly 3½ days.
The Moon phases affect the ocean tides, plants, animals, yes - even us people, and of course the workings of magickal spells.
If you keep a journal for one entire lunation cycle, you will be surprised at just how closely we all go through the various phases of energy in sync with the phase. With that in mind, why not use that knowledge purposefully by setting into motion the right efforts at the right time?
Your magick works in different ways, and many of us like to harness the power of the New Moon in casting
our spells and performing our rituals. During the different phases it is distinctly auspicious to cast certain types of spells. Here is a basic guide to the Moon cycles and what to expect in each phase.

Waxing Moon is the time from New Moon to Full Moon. It is the time when the Lunar energies are on the increase. Generally speaking, anything you wish to "gain" can be strived for during this period. Visualize, meditate, take action.

Waning Moon is the time from Full Moon to New Moon or "Dark of the Moon" as is sometimes called. The Lunar power and energies are being drawn inward and this becomes a time of releasing and letting go of what you no longer want in your life. Perform spells for banishment, or for something to come to conclusion.

New Moon
Is when the moon is in it's guise as Maiden. It's power is new and fresh. This is a time of new beginnings, new directions. What do want in your life now? Write down your goals.

Crescent Moon
This is a time for getting clear on your New Moon thoughts and aspirations. Develop some plans for those goals. Reconsider what it is you really truly want, and think before taking action.

First Quarter Moon
This phase urges you to take action on your New Moon wishes. The Universe acts as well by creating circumstances that will help you to reach your goals. Look carefully at what is going on in your life during this time and be ready to take advantage of opportunities presented. Just do it, get moving!

Gibbous Moon
Now is the time to receive support in your venture. This is a beneficial time for meetings and communications of all kinds, so you should feel a pull now to connect with others, to network and find resources that will help you on your path. Pay attention to who you meet at this time, they may be just the person you needed to see!

Full Moon
The Moon is in it's guise as Mother now, and this is when it is at it's most powerful. This is a time for strong magicks. A Power time. It is also a time for major realizations concerning the thoughts you had and goals you set at the time of the New Moon. Use this time to Meditate, Pray, and be open to revelations. This is a time of decision-making and more energy is available now for major undertakings.

Disseminating Moon
This is the Harvest time, the time for a big happening, the big moment. Time to reap what you have sown. Fruition, manifestation. This is the time to make your dreams really come true.

Last Quarter
It's now time to let go, time to make changes and complete projects. Time to release that which has been holding you back. Let go of strategies and situations that aren't working. Terminate. End. Release.

Balsamic
This is the time now for looking ahead, making new plans, considering new strategies. New opportunities are just around the corner with the next New Moon, so get a feel for where you wish to go next and what you wish to manifest in your life. Get a sense of your next steps in the cycle ahead and be ready.