Why the Moon changes shape
The Moon reflects sunlight. As it orbits Earth we see different portions of its lit side — creating the 29.5-day cycle of phases. In Vedic astrology this cycle is divided into 30 Tithis (lunar days).
The 8 phases
🌑 New Moon (Amavasya) — Dark sky. Sacred for ancestral rites. Best for new beginnings.
🌒 Waxing Crescent — Growing light. Take first steps toward intentions.
🌓 First Quarter — Half lit. Challenges arise — commit and push through.
🌔 Waxing Gibbous — Nearly full. Refine and adjust your approach.
🌕 Full Moon (Purnima) — Peak illumination. Ideal for worship, charity, fasting.
🌖 Waning Gibbous — Gratitude phase. Share what you have received.
🌗 Last Quarter — Release what no longer serves you.
🌘 Waning Crescent — Rest and reflect. Prepare for the next cycle.
Tithi, Nakshatra, Yoga & Karana
Tithi — Lunar day — each of 30 tithis has its own ruling deity, quality, and auspiciousness.
Nakshatra — The lunar mansion Moon is transiting. Determines the quality and mood of the day.
Yoga — Combination of Sun + Moon longitudes. 27 yogas from Vishkumbha to Vaidhriti.
Karana — Half a Tithi. 11 Karanas cycle through the lunar month — guides timing for activities.
Ganda Moola
Six nakshatras at the junctions of fire and water signs are called Ganda Moola (Ashwini, Ashlesha, Magha, Jyeshtha, Mula, Revati). Births in these require special Shanti puja. Starting important activities should be avoided.
