Moon Phases & Tarot Spreads

I rarely turn to tarot cards with specific questions, but very soon after I just started practicing (spring 2022), I came up with spreads for three moon phases. They have the perfect balance of support and freedom for me, and I do them every month to this day. The spreads could probably be used for any other cycle/situation as well.

When I was brainstorming the spreads, I was just figuring out what moon phases generally represent, so I took notes on all phases, not only the ones that I have spreads for. So I'll put them here as well for anyone interested :)

🌑 New Moon. Intention.

A reset. Open up to the energy of the new moon cycle. Notice your current state and the processes that are ready to emerge in the world and within you.

This is the main tarot spread of the cycle. It gives an overview of what to expect and some advice. It doesn’t give very specific answers, the intentions and goals are set individually, developed and transformed on different stages of the cycle.

Self. Who you are now, at the beginning of the cycle. Influence. What outside forces are at work during this cycle and how they will affect you. Flow. How you can integrate and work with the forces. Resistance. How you might try to sabotage the cycle, your instinctive defense against the energy. Resources. What you can draw from during the cycle. Purpose. What this cycle is meant to give you.

🌒 Crescent Moon. Conceptualizing

Observe your environment and yourself. The cycle starts to make itself known, the information gained will help to specify your course of action and opportunities during the cycle. It’s time for making first steps according to the chosen path.

🌓 First Quarter Moon. Focus.

As the cycle unfolds, challenges arrive. The next spread is meant to shed light on the main issue that is blocking you, and help you focus your attention and not spread yourself thin.

Barrier. What is blocking you right now. Bridge. How to move past the barrier. Significance. What needs your attention going forward. Insignificance. What doesn’t need your attention right now. It's not helpful at this time or can’t be affected. Let go of control, don’t stress about it.

🌔 Gibbous Moon. Refinement.

Determination and patience. Trust the process.

🌕 Full Moon. Peak Energy.

What you choose to do or not do under the full moon depends on the cycle. Stay in the moment and do what feels right.

🌖 Disseminating Moon. Harvest.

Notice what new things were brought into your life. Receive and share with others. Appreciate yourself and the universe. Start slowing down.

🌗 Last Quarter Moon. Reflection.

This is the time to ponder your experience and listen to what you need to clean the slate. The last spread of the cycle helps you reflect on what you have gained, and what is ready to be let go of, as well as get an idea of your final step.

Keep. What the most valuable lesson of the cycle is. Reflect on it. Release. What needs to be left behind before the beginning of the new cycle. Nurture. What needs to be cared for, healed and protected. Prepare. How you can prepare yourself for the new beginning.

🌘 Balsamic Moon. Rest.

Don’t push yourself and don’t obsess about what’s coming next. Keep your attention on your current needs. Rest and create empty spaces to be able to receive in the future.