A QUICK HISTORY OF THE LUNAR CONQUEST:
The history of lunar conquest is one of the most iconic in human history. Preceded by the rivalry between the United States and the Soviet Union during the Cold War, the launch of the first Soviet satellite, Sputnik, in 1957 marked the beginning of space exploration. On July 20, 1969, under the American Apollo 11 program, Neil Armstrong became the first man to walk on the Moon, uttering the famous phrase "That's one small step for man, one giant leap for mankind." In total, six Apollo missions landed on the Moon between 1969 (Apollo 11) and 1972 (Apollo 17), with twelve astronauts, known as "Moonwalkers," walking on its surface. After over half a century, lunar conquest appears to be making a comeback with the announcement of NASA's new Artemis program.
THE MOON AND ASTROLOGY:
The moon plays a crucial role in astrology. Throughout history and across most civilizations, the Moon and its various phases have been widely associated with lunar deities. Examples include Selene in Greek mythology, Luna in Roman mythology, Tsukuyomi in Japanese mythology, and Chang'e, the Chinese moon goddess. These associations have laid the foundation for the relationship between the Moon and the human psyche. It is considered a symbol of emotions, instinctual needs, and emotional intimacy. In astrology and in the natal chart, its influence is recognized for governing a person's emotional and intuitive character and more broadly their way of responding to life events.
THE EIGHT PHASES OF THE MOON:
From New Moon to Full Moon, the lunar cycle lasts an average of 27 days and 7 hours. In astrology, the different phases of the moon hold particular significance. They represent cycles of growth, manifestation, culmination, and release. Each of these phases, associated with distinct energies, is believed to influence an individual's emotions and actions.
New Moon:
This is a moment when the Moon is not visible from Earth. Indeed, it is positioned between Earth and the Sun, thus blocking the Sun's light and creating a shadow cone. Symbolically, the new Moon represents the power of renewal and new beginnings. It offers the perfect moment to actualize intentions and sow the seeds of deepest desires. It's a time to take a pause to reconnect with oneself. Engaging in activities like writing or drawing can help express what matters most for this new cycle and strengthen one's manifestation abilities. Discover all the New Moon dates through our annual lunar calendar! A postcard-sized calendar comes with every eshop order!
Waxing Crescent:
In this phase, the Moon appears on the horizon. It's the time to observe signs and witness the first manifestations of set intentions. It's a time to embody courage and take concrete action to foster the realization of wishes.
First Quarter:
Until the first quarter of the moon, doubts and inner conflicts arise. Our initial motivation faces challenges. It's the moment to strengthen self-confidence and determination to continuously align intentions with actions.
Waxing Gibbous:
During this lunar phase, more than half of the lunar disc is illuminated. Emotions are felt more strongly. It's a favorable time to observe our growth and accomplishments. This lunar phase often prompts deep readjustments and sincere questioning. Meditation and observation become real tools to remain focused and aligned. It's the balance between growth and completion.
Full Moon:
Symbolically, it's the
climax of the lunar cycle. The celestial body is fully illuminated in the night sky. This lunar time is associated with
enlightenment and mental clarity. It's a period where we are invited to acknowledge our progress since the beginning of the lunar cycle and
celebrate our successes, reaping the rewards of our efforts. It's an opportune moment for a thorough
material and spiritual cleanse. A time to purify your stones, jewelry, interior, and exterior. This intense lunar phase invites us to leave behind what is in the past to welcome the energies of renewal.
A time for letting go, forgiveness, and gratitude for what has passed. Discover all the Full Moon dates through our annual lunar calendar!
A postcard-sized calendar comes with every eshop order!
Waning Gibbous:
The moon begins its waning phase. It's a relaxation phase that promotes letting go and surrender. During this time, the need to step back and relax is felt. Gentle activities are favored. It's also a favorable moment to integrate lessons learned and share our wisdom with others.
Last Quarter:
Balances are questioned during this lunar phase. Old beliefs may resurface and counter the intentions set during the New Moon. Doubt creeps in, and our internal and external balances need reinforcement. It's a moment where we are encouraged to completely rid ourselves of what no longer serves us, whether on an emotional, mental, or physical level.
Balsamic Moon:
This is the final phase of the lunar cycle preceding the New Moon. This last lunar phase is a time conducive to healing, releasing old patterns, fears, and emotional wounds that hold us back. It's also considered a phase of assessment. Before the renewal of the New Moon, we have integrated what needs to be and clarified our intentions. The Balsamic Moon is associated with a phase of deep spiritual connection and strong intuition. This lunar phase allows us to align with our true essence and prepare for the next phase of growth and development.
UNIQUE CHARACTERISTICS OF LUNAR EVENTS:
Eclipses:
An eclipse refers to an astronomical phenomenon during which the light from a celestial object is partially or completely obscured by another celestial object. The two most common phenomena are solar eclipses and lunar eclipses. The latter can be partial or total.
Solar Eclipses: This occurs when the Moon passes between the Earth and the Sun. The Moon's shadow, or Umbra, moving from west to east across the Earth, casts a narrow path also known as the "path of totality." It is only from this area that one can observe the different phases of the eclipse as well as the total penumbra.
Lunar Eclipses: This occurs when the Earth is between the Sun and the Moon. This phenomenon only happens during a Full Moon. When the lunar eclipse is total, the moon can take on a reddish hue. This eclipse is then called a "Blood Moon." This phenomenon is due to the scattering of sunlight through the Earth's atmosphere.
Supermoon:
This phenomenon occurs 4 to 6 times a year when the Full Moon coincides with the moment when the moon is closest to Earth. This phenomenon allows us to observe the moon larger and brighter than a typical full moon.
Blue Moon:
This phenomenon is relatively rare as it occurs every two or three years. We speak of a "Blue Moon" when two Full Moons occur in the same calendar month. The term "Blue Moon" is then given to the second Full Moon. This designation does not come from the color of the celestial body at that time but from the expression "Once in a blue moon," which refers to something that rarely happens.
THE MOON AND STONES:
From a spiritual perspective, and
in crystal therapy more specifically, the Moon is attributed influence over stones and crystals, much like its influence on tides and psychic behaviors during its various phases.
Different phases of the Moon are used to work with stones in different ways. The
Full Moon is a particularly powerful phase during which it is recommended to
cleanse and recharge your stones. Rinse them
under fresh water and place them in the light of the Full Moon overnight. This way, your crystals will recharge with their beautiful energies to accompany you during the upcoming new cycle! Discover all the dates of New and Full Moons through our annual lunar calendar!
A postcard-sized calendar comes with every eshop order!
