Beautiful Dark Moon

I am a Lunar Daughter.  The rhythm of the moon is important to me, and I find great joy in honoring the energies available throughout the lunar cycle. 

The photo above is of one of the many moons in my house. 

Even if you aren’t particularly interested in lunar cycles, I daresay everyone is familiar with the terms new moon and full moon.  And you might know terms like waxing phases (as the moon’s appearance grows over the course of the month) and waning (as it declines).  You might even describe the moon as crescent, gibbous, balsamic.

But dark moon isn’t often known or discussed.  And it’s an important energy that’s part of the overall cycle.

It’s the time immediately preceding the new moon (and immediate is rather loosely defined – but is often thought to span 1-3 days.) Technically it’s the part of the cycle when the there is no solar reflection, which leaves the lunar face in darkness. 

From an energetic spiritual perspective it’s the last part of the cycle – the moon has moved through its life from its birth at new and now is dying.  It’s a rich time for reflection, for releasing, for honoring what was given and integrating it.

And then the cycle begins again.  The moon is “born” into another astrological sign, we’re given a chance to dance through a complete cycle working the energies to the best of our abilities and willingness, and once again wrapping it all up at the dark.

Before you welcome Sunday’s new moon in Aquarius is there something you’d like to thank for its appearance during the moon’s cycle through Capricorn?  Are you able to welcome the gift of darkness as a resting point before moving back into the light?  Do you have a moon story to share?  Please share – I’d love to hear.