I was recently asked what the moon cycles are and why they are important to us. In our modern technological age we have lost touch with the natural cycles and patterns of the moon, and its powerful influence on our climate and natural patterns of growth.

We are all aware of the influence the moon exerts on the tides of the oceans, and our planet’s weather patterns. But the influence of the moon goes much further than that.

For example, for centuries farmers used their ancestral knowledge of the moon to ensure the best possible growth of their crops. Experience taught them that the lunar phases have a powerful influence over their crop yields. Subsequently, they planned their agricultural activities around these cycles.

I pointed out to you the stars and the moon and all you saw was the tip of my finger ~ Tanzanian Proverb

The moon cycles actually play a very important role in our daily lives. By just being more aware of the moon’s cycles, you can more consciously create and manifest wonderful things in your life. Some moon cycles are ideal for manifesting the things we desire and for achieving success with positive affirmations, and making it become a reality.

The New Moon cycle, also known as ‘Bright Moon’, occurs when the first sliver of the moon is visible. This is the time when you would want to start new projects or create a new intention. I recommend that your write down your goals, intentions and desires on a piece of paper during this cycle.

Such a slender moon, going up and up, Waxing so fast from night to night, And swelling like an orange flower-bud, bright, Fated, methought, to round as to a golden cup, And hold to my two lips life’s best of wine ~ Jean Ingelow

From the New Moon to the Full Moon the moon visually increases in size from our Earth perspective. This is known as the process of ‘waxing’. This is a great time to continue manifesting the new things or changes that you want in your life, and which you have intended during the New Moon. I like to call the Full Moon cycle ‘decision time’. During this cycle there is so much creative energy, which is running so high that you can manifest anything.

The Full Moon cycle is followed by the Waning Moon, which is the reverse process, with the full moon gradually shifting to the Dark Moon. It is characterized by the moon’s size decreasing. When the moon reaches its last quarter, almost like an old-fashioned sickle, the time has arrived for you to truly reap the harvest of what you have sown during the New Moon.