The Dark Moon/Balsamic Moon

Dark Moon follows the Waning Crescent phase when the moon disappears, withdrawing and resting. During this time, we often deal with our inner selves and our fears, and take care of all unfinished affairs left from the last moon cycle. This time can be challenging, a time of dreaming, power and quiet. Emphasize resting, watching, listening. It is a time when the soma (life energy) on the planet is released in a power surge.

The lunar-solar New Year starts on the New Moon closest to Winter Solstice, the darkest time for both lunar and solar cycles. It begins a new cycle of growth. The phases of the year correspond to the Moon's phases. New Moon corresponds to Winter Solstice (time of seeding), First Quarter Moon corresponds with Spring Equinox (action), Full Moon corresponds with Summer Solstice (fulfilment), and Last Quarter Moon corresponds with Fall Equinox (re-orientation).