If you’ve had the chance to catch any of my previous articles, you have read about some of the ways that the subconscious mind relates to symbolism. Some of the most activating symbolism is conveyed to our subconscious mind when we look up to the sky. Not only do we receive an immediate perspective reset when we gaze up at clouds and stars, but we can also tune into the cycles of the moon and use these cycles to review and adjust the direction our life.
Imagine that the water-influencing moon provided us with invisible currents of energy; tides washing up on our own energetic shores, ebbing and flowing; Currents of energy running in time to the waning and waxing of the moon. We can assume that both the push and pull energetic cycles are of great value to the health of our oceans and our planet, but what if moving in rhythm with these cycles can also help us maximize our manifesting power; How could you leverage these cycles in your own life?
Let’s explore a bit further.
On a full moon , you are seeing the entire moon because its position in its orbit allows it to be completely lit up by the sun. During the new moon or first phase of its cycle, the moon lies closest to the Sun, positioned directly between the Sun and the Earth, so it is barely visible.
Whereas a full moon symbolizes illumination and catalyzes birth and release, the new moon, is a potent symbol of new beginnings–and what lies in wait. Ideas and dreams ready to be conceived…pure potential. The new moon has historically been the preferred time for farmers to plant seed. Symbolically, it may also be the perfect time to plant our deepest, most soulful desires. These idea seeds will then sprout with the coming full moon, so with trust and patience, we can relax and allow the cycles to assist us in bring about physical results.
On the 25th of August, there will be a new moon in the Earthy sign of Virgo. All Earth signs are oriented toward what’s real, productive, tangible and practical. Virgo, and its ruling planet Mercury, especially like to clean things up, get things done, streamline, solve problems, and create efficient systems.
So this new moon, i encourage you to align with the flow and symbolism of the new moon cycle.
Focus your goals and set your intentions with a simple ritual that has meaning for you. We’re always setting intentions, but ritual is a way to do it in a more conscious way. Rituals are a great way to mark turning points in your life.
Implement a daily habit that makes you happier, healthier or more efficient.
And, take on a learning challenge. This past month, i learned how to: make raw chocolate truffles, milk goats, ride a motorcycle, speak conversational spanish, and play 2 songs on my harmonica. I had an absolute blast. The benefits of taking on a learning challenge are many. Greater Self-Esteem, Increased Competence, Improved Memory to name a few. You can choose anything your heart desires for your learning challenge. In just a couple short weeks you’ll be ready celebrate your accomplishments at the next full moon. (And perhaps even join in the drum circle with a new musical skill)
Seeing as things expand in their perceived complexity according to how much time you allow for their completion, why not take on a 7 or 14 day learning challenge? You can learn some things, like new recipes, in as little as 30 min. So make a list of what you’d like to learn and start googling ‘how to…’
If you happen to be interested in learning to speak a language, swim better or dance, check out this TED talk. Some of the concepts are incredibly useful and can be applied to any area you’d like to learn about
Resolve and commit. Move through the fear. What’s the worst that could happen?
Take action now. Whether calling an instructor, downloading an audiobook, or setting aside practice time in your schedule, starting now prevents your inner procrastinator from sabotaging you before you begin.
Create a distraction free learning environment. Especially if you are learning something mentally engaging like a language, it helps to be in a quiet place, with a rested body and an alert mind.
Pace yourself. 30 mins of concentrated focus on a daily basis is often plenty. Take a few minutes each session to review and reinforce.
Deconstruct the process. Get a mentor who you can model or who can walk you through the steps. Step by step allows for easy progress and prevents burn-out and overwhelm.
Actively participate. Passive observation does little to create competence. Get in there! Activity creates muscle memory and paves new neural pathways.
The opportunity of this new moon is for clean slates, new beginnings, learning and creating. Make the most of it and have fun! As we honor the new moon cycle we can draw upon the wisdom of spirit, and open the door to the magical.