The Phases

     The phases of the moon have an effect on your magick.  They can take away from or add to your doings, so knowing when to do what can increase your work's outcome tremendously.  Listed below are the magickal properties of the Phases of our great Goddess.
Waxing Phase  Also known as the Maiden phase of the Triple Goddess.  This is the time between the New Moon (or no Moon) and the Full Moon.  Magick performed during this phase should be of attraction, increasing, growth, and new projects. 
Full Phase  Also known as the Mother phase of the Triple Goddess.  Some traditions believe this Moon phase lasts three days before, the day of and three days after the actual date of the Full Moon with the date of the Full Moon being the strongest.  Magick performed during the Full Moon should be increasing, growth, healing and empowerment.  The Full Moon is called an Esbat.  There are thirteen Esbats in a year.  Below is a listing of the Esbats for  this year.
Waning Phase  Also known as the Crone phase of the Triple Goddess.  This Moon phase is the time between the Full Moon and the New Moon.  Magick performed during this phase should be of decreasing, releasing, banishing and cleansing.  With the strongest time being the night before the New Moon.
New Phase  Or no Moon, is traditionally the time when no magick is performed.   It is a time of rest and relaxation.  Divination and meditation can be done, but usually not for a specific reason.  Some traditions believe this phase lasts three days before, the day of, and three days after the New Moon.  If it is absolutely necessary to perform magick, Hecate can be called upon for help.  For this is her time to rule.  (Hecate is the Crone Goddess of Greek tradition.)

" A New Moon rises with the Sun,
Her waxing half at midday shows,
The Full Moon climbs at sunset hour,
And the waning half the midnight knows."
The Witches' Almanac Ltd. © 2000