If you follow astrology, you're probably familiar with the phases of the Moon. The New Moon and Full Moon are on your calendar, and you might even make Full Moon water or do a manifestation ritual each New Moon. However, have you heard of the Dark Moon? This isn’t a major lunar moment, but it’s still an interesting and powerful lunar phase. The Dark Moon takes a lot of energy from us and demands that we recharge under its influence.
What is the Dark Moon?
The Dark Moon is the waning crescent phase of the Moon right before the New Moon; it's also called the balsamic phase of the New Moon. Unlike the New Moon, though, the Dark Moon isn’t a time for manifesting, but a moment for contemplation. You should use this time to relax and to connect with your body, mind, and spirit. The Dark Moon is a time to process everything that’s going on in your life and declutter your mind and heart. The Dark Moon isn't a time to focus on anything or anyone in particular—just yourself.
Dark Moon Shop
Chronicle Books The Astrology Deck: Your Guide to the Meanings and Myths of the Cosmos
AbuZariFragrances Dark Moon Luxury Perfume Oil
TheRootedDandelion Dark Moon Tea Blend
rendij 2023 Large Moon Calendar
How often does a Dark Moon occur?
The lunar cycle lasts approximately 29.5 days, and we experience a Dark Moon once within that time period. So Dark Moons are not rare by any means—we experience their energy about once a month throughout the completion of the lunar phase. However, that doesn’t mean that they aren’t magical or special.
How do Dark Moons affect us?
The Dark Moon is a time when you are learning to live in the present and not focus on the future. The more attention you pay to the here and now, the better your mind will feel. Although the name might sound spooky, the Dark Moon is a positive time when you can connect with your inner being and acknowledge your aspiration. There is no adverse effect of the Dark Moon—except that it can make you feel more tired than usual. That's the Moon asking you to take care of yourself!
What does it mean when the Dark Moon is in each zodiac sign?
The Dark Moon will take on the traits of the zodiac sign it is in.
- In Aries, the Dark Moon provides a spark of inspiration that initiates action.
- In Taurus, the Dark Moon is all about the creative process of building.
- In Gemini, the Dark Moon illuminates how you connect with the truth.
- In Cancer, the Dark Moon strengthens your emotions.
- In Leo, the Dark Moon encourages showy responses.
- In Virgo, the Dark Moon leads to self-reflection.
- In Libra, the Dark Moon asks you to consider your relationships.
- In Scorpio, the Dark Moon is all about power.
- In Sagittarius, the Dark Moon encourages adventure.
- In Capricorn, the Dark Moon motivates you to work hard and control what you can.
- In Aquarius, the Dark Moon asks you to focus on humanitarian endeavors.
- In Pisces, the Dark Moon strengthens your intuition.
What should I do during the Dark Moon?
The Dark Moon is a moment to pause and reflect, so it’s essential to take time out of your schedule to ~focus on you~. That might look like taking hike outside and connecting with nature, writing in your journal, or communicating with your spirit guides. You can also revise your intentions, manifestations, and goals as you prepare for the New Moon.
Lisa Stardust is a NYC-based astrologer, tarot card reader, energy healer, and manifestation guide known for her pop culture horoscopes. She is the author of Saturn Return Survival Guide: Navigating This Cosmic Rite of Passage, The Astrology Deck: Your Guide to the Meanings and Myths of the Cosmos, and Love Deck: 70 Cards to Ignite Attraction, Passion, and Romance. In addition to Women's Health, her work and writing has been featured in The Today Show, Oprah Daily, Vogue, Teen Vogue, Cosmopolitan, Refinery29, and InStyle. Hailing from a long line of spiritual healers, Lisa has been practicing astrology professionally for over 15 years but has been studying the stars all of her life.
