Photo-Illustration: by Preeti Kinha; Photos: Getty Images
It’s hard to miss the moon — it’s big and bright and has a funny way of peering across the horizon, both judgmental and comforting at the same time. (No wonder the moon represents our relationship with our mother.) But there is one peculiar time of the month when the moon seems to disappear entirely; in fact, Earth’s reliable celestial satellite becomes totally invisible. This phase — the new-moon phase — is mysterious, enchanted, and known as the best time to plant seeds and set intentions. But what does it actually mean? What happens during a new moon? And what does it mean for you? Behold, everything you’ve ever wanted to know about this magical lunation.
What does the moon symbolize in astrology?
The moon is Earth’s reliable, consistent, elusive satellite, dipping in and out of visibility as it completes its 29.5-day orbit. As it rotates, it travels through all 12 zodiac signs, spending roughly two and a half days in each.
Astrologically, the moon governs our emotions, instincts, and subconscious. It’s as if the moon’s gravitational tug is a symbolic reminder of our id — constantly pulling on our emotions and deep inner truths. For thousands of years and across myriad cultures, the moon serves as a cosmic reflector capturing the ebb and flow of our moods and feelings that lap on the shoreline. And, yes, all things Mother, too. Freud approves.
So why is a new moon special?
A new moon marks the start of the lunar cycle, a fresh beginning when the sky is dark and the moon is hidden from view. This phase occurs when the sun and moon align in the same zodiac sign, blending their energies — the Sun, representing ego and identity, with the moon’s reflective sensitivity — and symbolizing a powerful moment of initiation and rumination.
In the quiet stillness of a new moon, there’s a sense of possibility and potential. There’s no nocturnal illumination, so the risk of nighttime predation is low — even our ancient ancestors used this time for meditation and reflection. It’s too dark for night markets, hunting, or lunar gatherings, so new-moon energy tends to be calm, cozy, and introspective. Unlike the full moon, which illuminates and reveals, the new moon is all about introspection and planting seeds for change, hope, and possibilities.
What should I expect during a new moon?
Because the moon is associated with our inner world, this phase invites us to pause, reflect, and set intentions for the month ahead. Unlike the full moon, which brings everything to the surface, the new moon is about turning inward and focusing on what you want to cultivate in your life.
So expect things to feel more subdued, as if the world is holding its breath. You may feel a little sleepy — even a little weepy. Big, complex emotions may rise to the surface as we navigate the darkness, so there’s certainly an emo quality to this lunation. We may also feel a bit private, introspective, and even isolated. But that’s all part of its magic. Without the distraction of external influence, the new moon invites you to listen to your inner voice (no matter how angsty it may be) and clarify your most private, powerful goals — those lofty aspirations that require your deepest, most vulnerable truths and that can be accessed only against the backdrop of the new moon’s dark and velvety sky.
What should I do during a new moon?
While the energy of the new moon can be subtle (especially compared with the chaotic electricity of a full moon), this phase is incredibly powerful for manifestation. In fact, the new moon is an ideal time to set intentions because — just like planting seeds in fertile soil at the beginning of spring — the goals you establish during this phase have the opportunity to grow and flourish as the moon waxes toward fullness.
And with each passing day, as the moon moves through its phases, your intentions gain clarity and strength, reflecting your own progress and determination. This continues through the full-moon phase (two weeks after the new moon), when maximum illumination enables us to experience all that has blossomed.
When is the next new moon?
New moons occur every 29.5 days, so they’re easy to plan around. Here are the dates for the next six months of full moons (all days Eastern Standard):
