First things first, if you overhear someone saying Waxing & Waning you probably automatically think of the Moon. But how many of us can easily explain the differences? It’s one of those things like concave and convex, you know what both definitions mean but you may not be able to quite put the difference between them into words.

Quick Rundown 

So here’s a quick rundown of the difference between Waxing and Waning moon phases.

Waxing ~ Think of Mr. Miyagi in the cult classic “Karate Kid” when he advises young Daniel LaRusso to Wax On. The Waxing phases are the illumination of the Moon from the right, which means until there is a Full moon, you’ll still see a shadow on the left.

Waning ~ We like to think of it as Waning goodbye. As the Moon slowly becomes less illuminated, it approaches a New Moon phase causing us to see a shadow on the right side and illumination on the left.

On top of the Waxing & Waning phases, we can’t forget the quarters, which brings us to 8 total Moon Phases: the New Moon (all shadow), Waxing Crescent, the First Quarter (shadow is on the left), Waxing Gibbous, the Full Moon, Waning Gibbous, the Third Quarter (shadow is on the right) and Waning Crescent.

Let's Talk Lunar Personality

If you’re a Waning Gibbous baby let’s take a look at your lunar personality. P.S. if you weren’t born under this phase, have a peek at some of our other blog posts on lunar personalities to find yours! Don’t know or are unsure of your own birthday lunar phase? You can find it here.

We see the Waning Gibbous like New Year’s Day. Imagine the Full Moon is like New Year’s Eve, the great big party, so what about those few days that follow? Well, you’re cleaning up the party streamers and getting yourself put back together. You’re optimistic about what comes next. Think of it as the calm after the storm (we know that’s not how that saying goes but just go with it!). 

When the Moon is in this phase it’s a great time to wrap up projects and clean out your emotional and mental spaces. Basically, it's a time for improvement and making things a little bit better going forward. As a Waning Gibbous baby, you’re strong and determined with a soft side that is able to see every side of the story and is always eager to help.

This can be seen in all aspects of your life, as a natural healer and caretaker you’re always looking to improve that which is around you for the better. Whether it be relationships, as a friend who is empathetic beyond compare or in your professional space. Those born under the Waning Gibbous Moon tend to be public servants, determined to make an impact, even if it’s for just one person. You are driven to help, to metaphorically clean and cater to.

Professions best suited for those born under this phase are those that are dedicated to aiding others through difficulties and adversity like teachers, doctors and nurses.

Here at Moonglow, we cherish the idea that “Every moment has a Moon,” so why not celebrate the day you were born with your special lunar phase?

Already have a piece of Moonglow to celebrate your Waning Gibbous moment? Be sure to tag us for a chance to be featured on our socials with #MoonglowMoment and follow along with us on Instagram by clicking here!