{"id":28177,"date":"2023-03-20T01:10:52","date_gmt":"2023-03-20T05:10:52","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/paganpages.org\/emagazine\/?p=28177"},"modified":"2023-03-13T16:58:55","modified_gmt":"2023-03-13T20:58:55","slug":"learning-lunar","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/paganpages.org\/emagazine\/2023\/03\/20\/learning-lunar\/","title":{"rendered":"Learning Lunar: Moon Magic and Mystery"},"content":{"rendered":"

Learning Lunar: Waxing Gibbous<\/b><\/u><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/h1>\n

 <\/p>\n

Welcome back to Learning Lunar, Pagan Pages\u2019 column on everything moon-related! Last time around, we looked at the power of the Dark Moon and some of the differences between the dark moon and the new moon. Check it out here<\/a>. This time, we\u2019re looking at the Waxing Gibbous moon (not the new moon as previously advertised!) because that\u2019s what phase the moon will be around the time of the Irish festival of Beltaine.<\/span><\/span><\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

What Does Waxing Gibbous Mean?<\/b><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/h2>\n

\"\"A waxing moon means that the moon appears to be getting larger in the sky each night. Of course, it doesn\u2019t actually expand and contract. The moon is lit up by the sun at a slightly different angle each night due to the movement of the moon around our planet. This gives the impression that at some times of the month, it\u2019s getting bigger or smaller. Waxing gibbous means the moon has passed the \u201cHalf Moon\u201d phase which is also referred to as the first quarter. It is more than 50% illuminated, but less than 100%. <\/span><\/span><\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

What Does a Waxing Gibbous Moon Look Like? <\/b><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/h2>\n

A waxing gibbous moon is bulging to one side, slightly more than a half moon but not yet a full moon, either. Did you know that in the Southern Hemisphere, the moon waxes in the opposite direction? In the Northern hemisphere, a waxing moon increases size from right to left. This means the waxing gibbous moon has its \u201cbulge\u201d on the left. But, if you\u2019re south of the equator, you\u2019ll see that bulge on the right due to the Earth\u2019s relative position to the moon.<\/span><\/span><\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

What To Do On A Waxing Gibbous Moon<\/b><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/h2>\n

Confession time: The waxing gibbous moon is my absolute favourite phase of the moon! I think this has something to do with its transitional connections. It\u2019s part way between the first and second quarters of the moon, or to put it another way, between half and full moon. It represents plans already put into action, actions coming to fruition, or perhaps even just a rest phase where you watch your carefully sown seeds grow.<\/span><\/span><\/p>\n

\"\"<\/p>\n

It’s quite common to see the waxing gibbous moon in the daytime. On a clear day, it can be a delightful surprise to look up and see the swelling moon in the sky. A reminder that things don\u2019t always fall into the categories we give them, and that things are not always what they seem. For Pagans and Witches with kids, this is a great opportunity to point out the daytime moon and for them to learn that our satellite isn\u2019t only associated with the night! <\/span><\/span><\/p>\n

In May 2023, try looking for the waxing gibbous moon quite high in the sky just before sunset. You could try working this phase of the moon into some liminal ritual or meditation. The combination of the transitional phase of the moon and the equally transformative time of dusk could be a catalyst for growth and magic.<\/span><\/span><\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Astrology<\/b><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/h3>\n

For those that follow astrology, the waxing moon of Beltaine 2023 is in Virgo. Virgo can lead to perfection-seeking or impatience with the flaws of others, but at this time between new and full moon, you may find it easier to tolerate others or find balance within yourself. Try and forgive yourself for mistakes while also taking responsibility and looking at the changes you might need to make. <\/span><\/span><\/p>\n

The waxing moon in Virgo could also make you feel like you need to seek help with issues in your life, and it\u2019s a good time to do so. You might want to think twice before putting new plans into action, though. Instead, it could be a better time to foster existing plans and knuckle down when it comes to goals you already have in place.<\/span><\/span><\/p>\n

Try not to get hung up on details. The big picture is still there, even if you\u2019re struggling to see it! Be patient with yourself and others.<\/span><\/span><\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Magic<\/b><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/h3>\n

Of course, the waxing gibbous moon is the lead-up to the full moon. If you have plans, such as a group ritual, solo magical work, or even a moonlit walk, now is a great time to iron those plans out and prepare for the work ahead. This might mean gathering (or buying) herbs or other supplies, or simply sending a couple of messages and ensuring everyone is on the same page. <\/span><\/span><\/p>\n

The burgeoning energy of the growing moon might feel exciting and energising to some. This can be great, however, you may need to remind yourself to pause and take a breath. Constant activity is not sustainable, so slow down if you can, prioritise, and work to your own limits. It\u2019s also a great time to get rid of anything that\u2019s been holding you back. This could be a bag of clothes you\u2019ve been meaning to donate, or a project that\u2019s become fruitless. As I write this, we\u2019re just coming out of waxing gibbous into the full moon, and I\u2019ve been clearing out and reorganising the house. This isn\u2019t just so it looks nicer\u2013though that is a strong motivator! It\u2019s so I have a clearer space to help me work and not feel so stressed.<\/span><\/span><\/p>\n

Rachel Patterson\u2019s book <\/span><\/span>Moon Magic<\/i><\/span><\/span><\/a> states that colours associated with the waxing moon include red, silver, white, and pastel colours. This makes sense as pastels are often transitional shades that help blur the lines from one phase to the next. I also associate this particular phase of the moon with bold, bright colours like gold and vivid purple, simply because of the incredible \u201cget up and go\u201d energy it can exude.<\/span><\/span><\/p>\n

Other magical and folkloric associations with the waxing gibbous moon include good fortune, new beginnings, and making plans that you intend to follow through on. In other words, real-life goals rather than fantasies or pipe dreams. For me, the last waxing gibbous has been all about travel plans, discovering new places, and planning those for the next two years! Yes, the waxing gibbous moon energy can be expensive at times, but the return I will get from these carefully made journey plans will be more than worth it.<\/span><\/span><\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The Moon and Beltaine<\/b><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/h3>\n

Beltaine is a continuously practiced Irish fire festival, indicating <\/span><\/span>another<\/i><\/span><\/span> transitional phase: spring into summer. Many folklore beliefs are attached to Beltaine, including that the world of the Other Folk is closer at this time of year. One account from renowned folklore resource duchas.ie states that cakes and milk would be left out for the dead<\/a> who would visit over May Day (May 1<\/span><\/span>st<\/span><\/span><\/sup>), and the door must be left unlocked. However, milk, butter, and even money mustn\u2019t be given away to the living over Beltaine or it means you\u2019re giving away your luck. Conversely, the same account states that the first person to fetch water from the well on the morning of May Day would be lucky all year.<\/span><\/span><\/p>\n

You could ensure that your group rituals for Beltaine don\u2019t include giving away gifts of this nature, and could perhaps include sharing water to indicate sharing good fortune. Combine this with the energy of the waxing moon to reinforce the power of good luck, especially in relation to upcoming plans or goals. Solo practitioners could also look up other folklore associated with the moon and Beltaine. For example, spying the moon over your right shoulder<\/a> is considered good luck, whereas seeing the moon \u201con its back\u201d, where the moon\u2019s main curve seems to be directed towards the Earth, could indicate bad weather ahead<\/a>. <\/span><\/span><\/p>\n

How does the waxing gibbous moon impact you? Do you find yourself full of energy or is it a resting, growth phase for you? Come and tell us all about it on our socials<\/a>!<\/span><\/span><\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

*<\/i><\/span><\/span>Images:<\/b><\/i><\/span><\/span> Waxing gibbous moon photo by NASA<\/a> on Unsplash<\/a><\/i><\/span><\/span><\/p>\n

Aeroplane and waxing gibbous moon Photo by Ruyan Ayten<\/a> on Unsplash<\/a><\/i><\/span><\/span><\/p>\n

**<\/span><\/span><\/strong><\/p>\n

About the Author:<\/span><\/span><\/strong><\/p>\n

\"\"Mabh Savage<\/span><\/span><\/strong>\u00a0<\/span><\/span>is a Pagan author, poet and musician, as well as a freelance journalist and content creator. She\u2019s a nature-based witch, obsessed with Irish and British Paganism and Folklore, plus she\u2019s a massive plant nerd. She\u2019s also a long-time Hekate devotee and a newbie Lokean. She works extensively with the UK Pagan Federation, including editing their bi-annual children\u2019s magazine. Mabh is a passionate environmentalist and an advocate for inclusiveness and positive social transformation.<\/span><\/span><\/span><\/p>\n

Mabh is the author of\u00a0<\/i><\/span><\/span><\/span>A Modern Celt: Seeking the Ancestors<\/i><\/span><\/span><\/a>,<\/i><\/span><\/span><\/span>\u00a0\u00a0<\/i><\/span><\/span><\/span>Pagan Portals \u2013 Celtic Witchcraft: Modern Witchcraft Meets Celtic Ways<\/i><\/span><\/span><\/a>, <\/i><\/span><\/span><\/span>and most recently, <\/i><\/span><\/span><\/span>Practically Pagan: An Alternative Guide to Planet Friendly Living<\/i><\/span><\/span><\/a>. <\/i><\/span><\/span><\/span>Search \u201cMabh Savage\u201d on Spotify and @Mabherick on all socials.<\/i><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

Learning Lunar: Waxing Gibbous   Welcome back to Learning Lunar, Pagan Pages\u2019 column on everything moon-related! Last time around, we looked at the power of the Dark Moon and some of the differences between the dark moon and the new moon. Check it out here. This time, we\u2019re looking at the Waxing Gibbous moon (not the new moon as previously advertised!) because that\u2019s what phase the moon will be around the time of the Irish festival of Beltaine.   What Does Waxing Gibbous Mean? A waxing moon means that the moon appears to be getting larger in the sky each night. Of course, it doesn\u2019t actually expand and contract. The moon is lit up by the sun at a slightly different angle each night due to the movement of the moon around our planet. This gives the impression that at some times of the month, it\u2019s getting bigger or smaller. Waxing gibbous means the moon has passed the \u201cHalf Moon\u201d phase which is also referred to as the first quarter. It is more than 50% illuminated, but less than 100%.   What Does a Waxing Gibbous Moon Look Like? A waxing gibbous moon is bulging to one side, slightly more than a half moon but not yet a full moon, either. Did you know that in the Southern Hemisphere, the moon waxes in the opposite direction? In the Northern hemisphere, a waxing moon increases size from right to left. This means the waxing gibbous moon has its \u201cbulge\u201d on the left. But, if you\u2019re south of the equator, you\u2019ll see that bulge on the right due to the Earth\u2019s relative position to the moon.   What To Do On A Waxing Gibbous Moon Confession time: The waxing gibbous moon is my absolute favourite phase of the moon! I think this has something to do with its transitional connections. It\u2019s part way between the first and second quarters of the moon, or to put it another way, between half and full moon. It represents plans already put into action, actions coming to fruition, or perhaps even just a rest phase where you watch your carefully sown seeds grow. It’s quite common to see the waxing gibbous moon in the daytime. On a clear day, it can be a delightful surprise to look up and see the swelling moon in the sky. A reminder that things don\u2019t always fall into the categories we give them, and that things are not always what they seem. For Pagans and Witches with kids, this is a great opportunity to point out the daytime moon and for them to learn that our satellite isn\u2019t only associated with the night! In May 2023, try looking for the waxing gibbous moon quite high in the sky just before sunset. You could try working this phase of the moon into some liminal ritual or meditation. The combination of the transitional phase of the moon and the equally transformative time of dusk could be a catalyst for growth and magic.   Astrology For those that follow astrology, the waxing moon of Beltaine 2023 is in Virgo. Virgo can lead to perfection-seeking or impatience with the flaws of others, but at this time between new and full moon, you may find it easier to tolerate others or find balance within yourself. Try and forgive yourself for mistakes while also taking responsibility and looking at the changes you might need to make. The waxing moon in Virgo could also make you feel like you need to seek help with issues in your life, and it\u2019s a good time to do so. You might want to think twice before putting new plans into action, though. Instead, it could be a better time to foster existing plans and knuckle down when it comes to goals you already have in place. Try not to get hung up on details. The big picture is still there, even if you\u2019re struggling to see it! Be patient with yourself and others.   Magic Of course, the waxing gibbous moon is the lead-up to the full moon. If you have plans, such as a group ritual, solo magical work, or even a moonlit walk, now is a great time to iron those plans out and prepare for the work ahead. This might mean gathering (or buying) herbs or other supplies, or simply sending a couple of messages and ensuring everyone is on the same page. The burgeoning energy of the growing moon might feel exciting and energising to some. This can be great, however, you may need to remind yourself to pause and take a breath. Constant activity is not sustainable, so slow down if you can, prioritise, and work to your own limits. It\u2019s also a great time to get rid of anything that\u2019s been holding you back. This could be a bag of clothes you\u2019ve been meaning to donate, or a project that\u2019s become fruitless. As I write this, we\u2019re just coming out of waxing gibbous into the full moon, and I\u2019ve been clearing out and reorganising the house. This isn\u2019t just so it looks nicer\u2013though that is a strong motivator! It\u2019s so I have a clearer space to help me work and not feel so stressed. Rachel Patterson\u2019s book Moon Magic states that colours associated with the waxing moon include red, silver, white, and pastel colours. This makes sense as pastels are often transitional shades that help blur the lines from one phase to the next. I also associate this particular phase of the moon with bold, bright colours like gold and vivid purple, simply because of the incredible \u201cget up and go\u201d energy it can exude. Other magical and folkloric associations with the waxing gibbous moon include good fortune, new beginnings, and making plans that you intend to follow through on. In other words, real-life goals rather than fantasies or pipe dreams. For me, the last waxing gibbous has been all about travel plans, discovering new places, and planning those for the next two years! Yes, the waxing gibbous moon energy can be expensive at times, but the return I will get from these carefully made journey plans will be more than worth it.   The Moon and Beltaine Beltaine is a continuously practiced Irish fire festival, indicating another transitional phase: spring into summer. Many folklore beliefs are attached to Beltaine, including that the world of the Other Folk is closer at this time of year. One account from renowned folklore resource duchas.ie states that cakes and milk would be left out for the dead who would visit over May Day (May 1st), and the door must be left unlocked. However, milk, butter, and even money mustn\u2019t be given away to the living over Beltaine or it means you\u2019re giving away your luck. Conversely, the same account states that the first person to fetch water from the well on the morning of May Day would be lucky all year. You could ensure that your group rituals for Beltaine don\u2019t include giving away gifts of this nature, and could perhaps include sharing water to indicate sharing good fortune. Combine this with the energy of the waxing moon to reinforce the power of good luck, especially in relation to upcoming plans or goals. Solo practitioners could also look up other folklore associated with the moon and Beltaine. For example, spying the moon over your right shoulder is considered good luck, whereas seeing the moon \u201con its back\u201d, where the moon\u2019s main curve seems to be directed towards the Earth, could indicate bad weather ahead. How does the waxing gibbous moon impact you? Do you find yourself full of energy or is it a resting, growth phase for you? Come and tell us all about it on our socials!   *Images: Waxing gibbous moon photo by NASA on Unsplash Aeroplane and waxing gibbous moon Photo by Ruyan Ayten on Unsplash ** About the Author: Mabh Savage\u00a0is a Pagan author, poet and musician, as well as a freelance journalist and content creator. She\u2019s a nature-based witch, obsessed with Irish and British Paganism and Folklore, plus she\u2019s a massive plant nerd. She\u2019s also a long-time Hekate devotee and a newbie Lokean. She works extensively with the UK Pagan Federation, including editing their bi-annual children\u2019s magazine. Mabh is a passionate environmentalist and an advocate for inclusiveness and positive social transformation. Mabh is the author of\u00a0A Modern Celt: Seeking the Ancestors,\u00a0\u00a0Pagan Portals \u2013 Celtic Witchcraft: Modern Witchcraft Meets Celtic Ways, and most recently, Practically Pagan: An Alternative Guide to Planet Friendly Living. Search \u201cMabh Savage\u201d on Spotify and @Mabherick on all socials.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":206,"featured_media":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"iawp_total_views":0,"footnotes":""},"categories":[10004],"tags":[11023,14440,10299,10898,10665,11729,10065,10206,10482,10421,14439],"class_list":["post-28177","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","hentry","category-monthly-columns","tag-correspondence","tag-gibbous","tag-guide","tag-help","tag-learning","tag-lunar","tag-magic","tag-meaning","tag-moon","tag-mystery","tag-waxing"],"acf":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/paganpages.org\/emagazine\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/28177","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/paganpages.org\/emagazine\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/paganpages.org\/emagazine\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/paganpages.org\/emagazine\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/206"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/paganpages.org\/emagazine\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=28177"}],"version-history":[{"count":1,"href":"https:\/\/paganpages.org\/emagazine\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/28177\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":28180,"href":"https:\/\/paganpages.org\/emagazine\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/28177\/revisions\/28180"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/paganpages.org\/emagazine\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=28177"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/paganpages.org\/emagazine\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=28177"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/paganpages.org\/emagazine\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=28177"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}