Wednesday, Apr 13 at 11:03pm EST
Click here to learn about the Moon. Click here to learn about Cancer.
The Sun in Aries squares the moon in Cancer. The moon will rise at noon, peak at dusk and set at midnight.
Quarter moons are provocative. They prompt definitive change. According to CafeAstrology, quarter phases represent a “crisis of consciousness.” The week between the first quarter and full moon (Apr 14–22) is the most potent of the lunar cycle. This is when we need to think long and hard about how we are conducting our life.
Imagine each moon cycle as a procession of poignantly themed challenges. The First Quarter in Cancer represents a conflict between the Divine Masculine and Divine Feminine. Generally speaking, the Aries cycle seeks to embolden and activate - this is where we do, move, breathe, climb, jump, grab, pull, push, dance. The moon in Cancer sprinkles loving-kindness on the ram’s raging fire, courageously stepping in with little pincers upraised. Cancer is the mother of the zodiac, Aries her firstborn son running towards the next adventure. This phase calls upon Cancer’s gentle powers. Without her, we lose sensitivity amidst the flames of Aries. From Aries we learn to be dynamic and fearless, and from Cancer the importance of compassion.
The purpose of this quarter moon is healthy and open emotional expression (Cancer) concerning plans and intentions of an active/masculine nature (Aries). The crab is not satisfied with inhibited hearts or lack of thoughtful consideration. In other words, if someone is asking you to go along for the ride, please be sure that it’s something you actually want to do. This could be anything, like going on a vacation, joining a team, or maybe even smaller commitments, although this is unlikely since we are in a primordial period where whatever we begin now has some staying power. Too often we acquiesce out of fear of offending others. It is better to be alone and do what makes you happy, even if this means disappointing another.
If you’re more of a watery, emotional type, stand up for yourself, listen to your heart; fiery, active humans - slow down, tune in with others, make sure everyone’s on the same page. There is no right or wrong at this juncture. If you agree to something that you are not totally sure about, this will undoubtedly end with tears and frustration, and this is not the fault of others. On the other hand, if you charge ahead without first confirming that everyone else is equally enthusiastic, you will undoubtedly encounter emotional obstacles for which you may have little to no patience, and this is also not the fault of others. In short, we all have different responsibilities depending on our natural disposition.
The most challenging aspect of quarter phases is that if we walk away, it’s from something we’ve been holding on to very tightly. Dear friends, do not wait to act. Intuition is not just some schmaltzy, annoying voice in your head, and wishful thinking surfs a mighty current. You’ll know when all is good and right because it’s easy and joyful – and when it’s not, don’t be afraid! Change is your friend!
Cancer is ruled by the moon, so she is “at home” for this phase, as we say in astrology. Planets at home are auspicious placements. However, the moon in Cancer intensifies our susceptibility to lunar energy, so expect to feel more emotional than usual. Open up, speak your truth.
Calm your heart with Cancer Yoga.
To ascertain your personal Moon sign, click here.
Mantra: I listen to my intuition