Navigating Life's Seasons: The Power of the Progressed Lunation Cycle

I will enter my progressed new moon phase in less than two months. In astrology, a technique called the progressed lunation cycle divides a person's life into periods of three and a half to four years. Each of these periods symbolizes one of the eight phases of the Moon.

Ancient astrologers had various ways of dividing the Moon's monthly cycle, but more recently, in 1967, the astrologer Dane Rudhyar classified the Moon's dynamic monthly relationship with the Sun into eight phases.

Each phase of the Moon, which represnting our bodies, emotions, and the ebb and flow of fortune throughout our lives, has a distinct quality of light. The ancients viewed the Moon's ever-changing and fluctuating nature as a symbol of how we and the circumstances of our lives change over time.

When I learned this technique from Demetra George and Kelly Surtees, I was struck by its ability to describe our lives in terms of seasons. As I write this, I am less than two months from entering my progressed new moon phase, which means my progressed balsamic phase is ending.

The balsamic phase is a time for retreat and withdrawal, often associated with behind-the-scenes work. It can bring diminished vitality, decreased interest in the hustle, and a more inward focus. During this phase, one may experience a loss of identity, a waning interest in previously enjoyable activities, and sometimes even a loss of jobs, friends, and purpose.

Resting during this phase contradicts our hyper-consumerist, caffeine-driven, go-getter culture. The balsamic phase can be particularly challenging because we feel an internal call to retreat and be less productive while our environment pressures us to achieve more.

Since February 2021, I have found myself less interested in social gatherings. I lacked the energy, drive, or motivation to participate, and I also felt afraid and ashamed of facing the inevitable question, "What do you do?" Not having a satisfying answer—such as "I don't really know" or "I'm composting my life"—feels inappropriate in social settings that often measure our worth by our accomplishments.

Astrology provides valuable insights into our lives by understanding cycles, seasons, and the broader chapters of time. It encourages us to recognize that while some friends may be experiencing a metaphorical summer—achieving career success, growing their families, and reaching financial goals—others may be navigating a winter phase. This winter period invites us to pause, rest, reflect, and release what no longer serves us.

Astrology helps us understand that each of us has our timeline, and our rate of progress can differ significantly from that of those around us. I remember searching online for successful people, reading their timelines and biographies, and wondering, "They achieved that by 28? What am I doing with my life?" However, as I learn more about my timing cycles, I increasingly embrace the idea that I am exactly where I need to be.

In my readings, I always discuss the progressed lunation phase with clients. This calculator will show you where you are in this eight-phase process, allowing you to discover your current season of life. Once you know your phase, consider booking a session with me to unpack, process, plan, and integrate where you've been and where you are headed.