As spirits incarnate, spirits manifesting as human beings, our experiences are individualistic and nuanced, but there are cycles we experience that bring us together. One of the most profound cycles we experience is the lunar cycle, with its ebb and flow mirroring many aspects of our human experience, particularly for those who menstruate. By aligning with the Moon's phases, we can harness its energy to enhance our well-being and cultivate a deeper connection to our mind, body, and spirit.

As you dive into this blog post, remember to check out my YouTube video and blog post on cosmic rituals, where I discuss the Sun, Moon, and how to honor their energies through intentional ritual.

Honoring Our Cycles: Ancient Cultures and Menstruation

For centuries, people across various cultures have recognized the profound connection between the Moon's phases and the menstrual cycle. In many ancient traditions, the Moon was revered as a powerful symbol of the divine feminine, fertility, and the cycles of birth and rebirth. Honoring menstruation and its alignment with the lunar phases has been seen as a sacred practice, deeply intertwined with spiritual growth and intuitive development.

In ancient times, many cultures celebrated the menstrual cycle as a time of heightened spiritual awareness and connection. For instance:

• Many indigenous cultures around the world held ceremonies to honor the menstrual cycle, seeing it as a powerful time for women to connect with their intuition and the earth. Menstrual huts or Moon lodges were common, where women would retreat during their periods to rest, reflect, and share wisdom.

• In ancient Egypt, the goddess Isis was associated with the Moon and was revered for her wisdom and connection to the cycles of nature. Menstruating women were considered to be in a powerful state of being, able to tap into divine knowledge.

• The Moon goddess Artemis (Greek) or Diana (Roman) was worshiped as a protector of women and childbirth. Her connection to the lunar cycle was seen as a reflection of the natural rhythms of life.

The Spiritual Significance of Aligning with the Moon’s Energy

Paying attention to how our menstrual cycles align with the Moon is a deeply spiritual practice that helps us grow our relationship with our intuition. Here’s how:

• Heightened Intuition — The menstrual cycle, like the lunar cycle, is a time of introspection and heightened intuition. Tuning into these natural rhythms helps us become more attuned to our inner wisdom and intuitive insights.

• Emotional Awareness — Just as the Moon influences the tides, it also affects the tides within us: our emotions. Aligning with the lunar phases helps us understand and navigate our emotional landscape, leading to greater emotional intelligence and holistic balance.

• Personal Empowerment — Recognizing the power and sacredness of our menstrual cycle fosters a sense of personal empowerment. It encourages us to honor our bodies and their natural processes, promoting self-love and acceptance.

• Connection to Nature — Aligning our cycles with the Moon deepens our connection to nature and the Universe. It reminds us that we are part of a larger cosmic dance, interconnected with all life.

Aligning our menstrual cycles with the Moon phases is a path to personal and collective liberation.

This practice helps us break free from the need to search for external sources to "regulate" our cycles. Many people’s journeys to regulation lead them to a medical office where they are often prescribed pills that act as a band-aid solution, one that isn’t a solution to anything at all because these prescriptions often end up causing more physical and mental inharmony in the long run.

Instead, intentionally witnessing how our cycle aligns with the Moon cycles encourages us to return to our understanding that we are nature, nurturing ourselves as intended. By understanding and honoring our natural rhythms, we can improve our health and overall well-being.

The Moon Phases and Their Energetic Significance

Here, I’ll break down each moon cycle, what each means for us as energetic beings, holistic well-being practices that can support us in flowing with their energy and our cycle, spiritual rituals that you can perform, and what kind of “witch” you are if your period aligns with a certain moon cycle.

Please Note: If the word "witch" makes you uncomfortable, it might be a sign that you need to continue to heal and decolonize your mindset.

Many have reclaimed this term as a form of empowerment and connection to ancient wisdom. Colonial perspectives often downplay the power and wisdom of cyclical living. This section uses "moon witch" to explore that power.

You don't have to call yourself a witch, but as someone who fully honors her energetic power and the infinite, Universal magic within, I’ve done the work to own it as a part of who I am and what I’m capable of. The most important aspect is recognizing the inherent power within you and celebrating the natural rhythms of your body. Embracing this can be a powerful step toward recognizing your intuitive and spiritual gifts, and breaking free from limitations that have suppressed feminine energy throughout history. This journey of decolonial healing invites you to embrace your divine feminine power and reconnect with your wild, wonderful feminine essence.

New Moon 🌑 A Time of New Beginnings

The New Moon is a powerful time for setting intentions and planting the seeds for new beginnings. Energetically, the New Moon represents a time of new beginnings, fresh starts, and unlimited potential, and it's a powerful time for setting intentions, planting seeds, initiating new projects or endeavors, and intentionally manifesting your deepest soul desires.

• Menstruation Connection —This phase often aligns with the onset of menstruation, symbolizing a time of inward reflection and renewal. Energy levels are typically lower, inviting rest and introspection. Intuition is heightened, making it a powerful time for deep inner work and setting intentions for the cycle ahead.

• Mind, Body, Spirit Practices — Engage in journaling to set intentions, meditate to clear the mind, and focus on gentle yoga or restorative practices to support the body during this low-energy phase.

• Rituals — Create a sacred space for intention-setting rituals. Use tools like candles, crystals, herbs, and oils to foster a grounded environment, and a sense of calm and focus. For a specific New Moon ritual, including detailed steps, click here.

• If your period aligns with the New Moon, you are a New Moon Witch. This phase is about new beginnings and setting intentions. You are introspective, intuitive, and deeply connected to the cycles of renewal and rebirth. Your energy is at its lowest during menstruation, making it a time for rest, reflection, and inner work. You embody the energy of the maiden, representing purity, new beginnings, and potential. Your heightened intuition makes you adept at setting powerful intentions for the month ahead.

Waxing Crescent 🌒 Building Momentum

As the Moon begins to grow, so does our energy and motivation. This phase is all about taking actionable steps toward our goals and nurturing the seeds we've planted with the New Moon.

• Menstruation Connection — The follicular phase of the menstrual cycle corresponds with the waxing crescent, a time of rising energy and optimism. Energy levels begin to increase, bringing a sense of renewal and motivation. Intuition is still strong but more outwardly focused, supporting new beginnings and creative projects.

• Mind, Body, Spirit Practices — Focus on activities that build strength and momentum, such as more dynamic yoga practices, creative projects, and goal-setting exercises.

• Rituals — Practice reciting affirmations and visualizing the life you envision. Engage in activities that stimulate growth and movement, like dancing, exercising, or brisk walks in nature.

• If your period begins during the Waxing Crescent or First Quarter Moon, you are a Waxing Moon Witch. This phase is about growth, momentum, and taking action. You are dynamic, optimistic, and motivated. Your energy levels are rising, making it a great time to start new projects and pursue goals. You embody the energy of the creator, focused on growth and manifestation. Your ability to harness increasing energy makes you effective at bringing ideas to life and achieving your aspirations.

First Quarter 🌓 Facing Challenges

The first quarter Moon symbolizes a time of decision-making and overcoming obstacles. It’s a period of action and determination, urging us to confront challenges head-on.

• Menstruation Connection — This phase may align with the pre-ovulatory period, where energy levels are peaking, and confidence is high. This is a time of increased physical energy and mental clarity, making it ideal for tackling challenges and making important decisions. Intuition is balanced with logical thinking, aiding in problem-solving.

• Mind, Body, Spirit Practices — Embrace challenging workouts, problem-solving activities, and assertive communication. Focus on building resilience and confidence.

• Rituals — Perform grounding exercises, such as walking barefoot on the Earth (grounding!) or practicing long deep breathing. Focus on eating more fruits, vegetables, and grains that grow from the earth. Use crystals like hematite or black tourmaline for grounding and protection.

• If your period begins during the Waxing Crescent or First Quarter Moon, you are a Waxing Moon Witch. This phase is about growth, momentum, and taking action. You are dynamic, optimistic, and motivated. Your energy levels are rising, making it a great time to start new projects and pursue goals. You embody the energy of the creator, focused on growth and manifestation. Your ability to harness increasing energy makes you effective at bringing ideas to life and achieving your aspirations.

Waxing Gibbous 🌔 Refining and Adjusting

As the Moon grows fuller, we fine-tune our plans and make necessary adjustments. This is a time for reflection and refinement, ensuring we are on the right path.

• Menstruation Connection — The ovulatory phase can correspond with this Moon phase, bringing heightened creativity and social energy. Energy levels are at their peak, and intuition is sharp, making it a time for clear communication and connecting with others. It's a period of abundance and creativity.

• Mind, Body, Spirit Practices — Engage in collaborative projects, be in community with others, attend social events, and practice creative expression through art, music, writing, or any way that gets your creative juices bubbling.

• Rituals — Host a gathering with loved ones to share ideas and support. Use heart-opening practices like collective gratitude journaling or future dreaming, tea ceremonies, or a group guided meditation.

• If your period begins during the Waxing Gibbous Moon, you are a Waxing Gibbous Witch. This phase is about refining and adjusting your plans as you approach the Full Moon. You are diligent, detail-oriented, and focused on improvement. Your energy is high, and your intuition sharp, making it an excellent time for fine-tuning your goals and preparing for culmination. You embody the energy of the perfectionist, constantly seeking to enhance and perfect your work and life.

Full Moon 🌕 Culmination and Release

The Full Moon marks the peak or the middle of the lunar cycle, representing a time of culmination and completion. Energetically, they’re a symbol of illumination, clarity, and heightened awareness, shining a light on areas of our lives that may have been hidden. They’re a point of balance and harmony between the opposing forces of light and dark, yin and yang, masculine and feminine, and they invite us to embrace the duality within ourselves and find equilibrium between our inner polarities. Just as the Full Moon illuminates the night sky, it also illuminates the shadow aspects of our psyche, inviting us to integrate with our shadow parts and embrace all aspects of ourselves with love and acceptance.

• Menstruation Connection — This phase often aligns with the luteal phase, where introspection and emotional clarity can occur. Energy levels can fluctuate, and emotions may run high. Intuition is powerful and can bring deep insights and revelations, making it a time for clarity and release.

• Mind, Body, Spirit Practices — Participate in rituals that involve releasing what no longer serves you, such as writing down and burning intentions, cleansing baths, and meditation.

• Rituals — Host a Full Moon circle with friends or engage in solo practices like Moon bathing. For a specific Full Moon ritual, including detailed steps, click here.

• If your period starts around the Full Moon, you are a Full Moon Witch. This phase is about culmination, celebration, and illumination. Your energy is at its peak, and you are likely to experience heightened emotions and strong intuitive insights. You embody the energy of the nurturer and healer, often finding yourself in roles where you support and care for others. Your ability to see clearly and feel deeply makes you a powerful force for healing and transformation.

Waning Gibbous 🌖 Gratitude and Sharing

As the Moon begins to wane, it’s a time to express gratitude and share the wisdom gained during the Full Moon. This phase is about giving back and acknowledging the journey.

• Menstruation Connection — The luteal phase continues, encouraging introspection and a focus on nurturing oneself and others. Energy levels begin to wane, inviting rest and reflection. Intuition remains strong, supporting inner work and the integration of insights gained during the Full Moon.

• Mind, Body, Spirit Practices — Practice intentional acts of kindness, volunteer, or share your knowledge with others. Focus on restorative yoga and meditation to balance your energy.

• Rituals — Gratitude journal, focus on acts of service, and engage in community-building activities. Use crystals like rose quartz to foster compassion and connection.

• If your period begins during the Waning Gibbous or Last Quarter Moon, you are a Waning Moon Witch. This phase is about gratitude, reflection, and release. You are thoughtful, introspective, and focused on letting go of what no longer serves you. Your energy is waning, inviting you to slow down and turn inward. You embody the energy of the wise woman or crone, carrying deep wisdom and a strong connection to the cycles of life and death. Your ability to release and renew makes you a guide for others in their journeys of transformation.

Last Quarter 🌗 Releasing and Letting Go

The last quarter Moon is a time of bearing witness to ourselves and our lives, and letting go of what it being released in our lives. It’s a period of introspection and preparation for the new cycle to come.

• Menstruation Connection — This phase may align with the pre-menstrual phase, a time of heightened sensitivity and reflection. Energy levels continue to decrease, making it a time for rest and letting go. Intuition is deep, and this phase encourages inner work and releasing emotional and physical clutter.

• Mind, Body, Spirit Practices — Engage in cleansing practices like decluttering your space, detoxifying your body by prioritizing fiber and drinking more water, and centering your mind through practices like meditation and pranayama breathwork.

• Rituals — Cleanse your space, take salt and/or magnesium baths to relax and purify the body, and engage in mindfulness practices to clear the mind. Use crystals like amethyst for clarity and spiritual insight.

• If your period begins during the Waning Gibbous or Last Quarter Moon, you are a Waning Moon Witch. This phase is about gratitude, reflection, and release. You are thoughtful, introspective, and focused on letting go of what no longer serves you. Your energy is waning, inviting you to slow down and turn inward. You embody the energy of the wise woman or crone, carrying deep wisdom and a strong connection to the cycles of life and death. Your ability to release and renew makes you a guide for others in their journeys of transformation.

Waning Crescent 🌘 Rest and Reflection

As the Moon returns to its new phase, it’s a time for rest, reflection, and deep inner work. This phase encourages us to slow down and prepare for the cycle ahead.

• Menstruation Connection — The pre-menstrual phase continues, emphasizing the need for self-care and reflection. Energy levels are at their lowest, calling for rest and introspection. Intuition is deeply powerful, making it a time for profound inner work and spiritual connection.

• Mind, Body, Spirit Practices — Focus on deep relaxation techniques, such as restorative yoga, meditation, and gentle walks in nature. Prioritize self-care and nurturing activities.

• Rituals — Engage in deep journaling, dream work, and introspective practices. Use crystals like labradorite or clear quartz to enhance inner vision and clarity.

• If your period aligns with the Waning Crescent or the days just before the New Moon, you are a Dark Moon Witch. This phase is about rest, reflection, and deep inner work. You are highly intuitive, mysterious, and connected to the unseen realms. Your energy is at its lowest, calling for profound rest and introspection. You embody the energy of the sage, with a deep understanding of the mysteries of life and death. Your ability to navigate the shadow realms and embrace the darkness makes you a powerful figure for inner transformation and spiritual growth.

A Note for those with Menstrual Health Imbalances…

I understand that living with menstrual issues like PCOS and endometriosis can make it challenging to connect with natural cycles in the ways I’ve described here. Each person’s journey with their menstrual health is unique and valid.

This blog post is intended to offer general insights into aligning with the Moon’s phases, but it’s important to honor your body’s individual rhythms and needs. While these practices can be supportive, they are not a one-size-fits-all solution, as they go for everything in well-being and healing. For those dealing with menstrual health issues, working in tandem with healthcare providers and holistic practitioners, and exploring supportive practices that resonate with your specific situation is crucial.

If you’re asking if it could be possible to heal your imbalances, regulate your internal systems, and actually enjoy your cycle…the answer is yes!

Through offering Alignment Sessions, I’ve sat with many clients who have gone from suffering from painful and irregular periods to having regular, painless cycles. It takes a lot of focus, dedication, and being willing to release the practices, habits, toxins, and even mindsets and energies that are inhibiting your ability to have a connection with your womb. What these clients all have in common is working with healers outside of the traditional medical setting, like herbal practitioners, acupuncturists, and reiki healers.

All in all, your path to wellness and connection with your cycles is unique, and I encourage you to explore and adapt practices that feel nurturing and empowering for you. If aligning with the Moon’s phases doesn’t feel helpful right now, that’s okay—honoring your body’s wisdom in whatever way feels right is most important at any point of your life.

By aligning with the Moon’s phases and understanding their connection to our menstrual cycle, we can cultivate a deeper sense of harmony and balance in our lives.

This ancient practice of aligning our cycles with the Moon not only nurtures our individual health and intuition but also fosters our liberation, which in turn pours into collective liberation. By returning to our natural rhythms and rejecting colonial methods of receiving and understanding our cycles, we reclaim our power and deepen our connection to nature. As menstruating beings, it’s a necessary and fruition journey back to our human, cosmic, and spiritual roots.

For a more comprehensive understanding of how to harness cosmic energies and integrate them into monthly rituals, be sure to check out my YouTube video and detailed blog post.

If you’re interested in harnessing cosmic energy to align your daily life every day of the week, check out my masterclass on Flowing with the Cosmos. It’s an 83-minute detailed recorded workshop that delves deep into the profound wisdom of the cosmos, guiding you on a transformative journey of self-discovery and harmonious living with the energy of the Universe all around us.

Remember, the power of these practices lies not in their complexity but in the sincerity of your intentions and the depth of your connection to the divine. Trust in the natural cycles, honor your mind, body, spirit, and energy, and allow the Moon guide you on a transformative journey of self-discovery and empowerment. May you shine brightly, just as the Moon does, in all its phases.