Tarot for Self-Discovery With Lunar and Seasonal Cycles, Part 1:

 Moon Phases and Card Meanings

 

Introduction

The moon has always held a powerful influence over human intuition, emotional tides, and the natural cycles that shape our daily lives. Across cultures and centuries, its waxing and waning light has been linked to fertility, creativity, and transformation. In tarot practice, working with lunar phases allows us to move in harmony with these rhythms rather than against them. By aligning readings with the moon’s cycle, we bring structure, intention, and depth to the process — creating a framework that supports reflection, action, release, and renewal at just the right moments.

Each lunar phase carries a distinct archetypal energy, and these energies mirror our own paths of growth. The new moon encourages planting seeds and setting intentions, while the full moon illuminates truth, clarity, and culmination. The waxing and waning phases remind us that progress comes in cycles — sometimes calling for momentum, other times for release. When paired with tarot, these phases become powerful allies, offering guidance through both external circumstances and internal evolution. In the following section, we’ll break down each phase of the lunar cycle, explore its general themes, and highlight the corresponding tarot cards that best embody its energy.

New Moon

Themes: Fresh starts, planting seeds, intention setting.

 Archetypes: The Fool, Ace of Wands, Ace of Cups.

Spread Idea: 1) What intention should I set? 2) What supports this? 3) What challenge may arise?
Journaling Prompt: 'What am I ready to invite in with this new cycle?'

Waxing Moon

Themes: Growth, momentum, building.

Archetypes: The Magician, The Chariot, Three of Wands.

Spread Idea: 1) Where should I focus my energy? 2) What resource can I use? 3) What action step is next?
Ritual: Write down your goals, place them under a crystal, and pull a card for guidance.

Full Moon

Themes: Illumination, culmination, clarity.

Archetypes: The High Priestess, The World, The Sun.

Spread Idea: 1) What is being revealed? 2) What can I celebrate? 3) What must I release?
Journaling Prompt: 'What truth is shining brightest right now?'

Waning Moon

Themes: Release, reflection, rest.

Archetypes: Death, The Hermit, Four of Swords.

Spread Idea: 1) What is no longer serving me? 2) What wisdom can I take with me? 3) How can I recharge?
Ritual: Write down what you’re letting go of, burn or bury the paper as a symbolic release.

Conclusion

By weaving tarot into the lunar cycle, we honor beginnings, growth, illumination, and release.

�� Next in the series: Seasonal Archetypes in the Tarot Deck.