Many people sense that the Moon is more than a distant, glowing presence. Even those who aren’t deeply into astrology often notice the Full Moon’s influence—its energy can change moods, heighten emotions, and shift behavior.
The myths about werewolves reflect a real observation: both humans and animals sometimes act out of character during the Full Moon. Whether it’s increased restlessness, bursts of emotion, or impulsive behavior, lunar energy can push the subconscious into view. Since much of our decision-making is driven by the subconscious, the Full Moon often stirs up feelings and memories that normally stay hidden.
Moon lovers often say each lunar phase carries distinct energies. While the New Moon is ideal for setting intentions and planting seeds for new beginnings, the Full Moon is typically when those intentions peak and when suppressed issues can surface for attention.
But what about the last quarter Moon? What does it mean and how can we work with it?
The last quarter Moon occurs during the Moon’s waning phase after the Full Moon. Spiritually, this phase emphasizes release, forgiveness, and closure. It’s a time to let go of what no longer serves and to clear emotional baggage so you can move forward with greater freedom.
Consider what in your life needs reconciliation so you can step forward lighter and more present. Tools like Tarot cards are excellent at revealing buried feelings and offering insight into patterns that block growth. A focused Tarot reading during the last quarter Moon can help you identify what to release and how to heal.
Below is a simple Tarot spread tailored to the last quarter Moon in Sagittarius. Use it to explore what you need to let go of in order to progress.
Last Quarter Moon 3-Card Tarot Spread
Question: What do I need to let go of in order to move forward?
- Card 1: The area of my life I need to focus on
- Card 2: Obstacles that stand in my way
- Card 3: How can I achieve this?
Here’s an example reading so you can see how this spread works in practice.
Card 1
Knight of Wands
In this example, the Knight of Wands represents a person who caused emotional pain—often a romantic partner. The Knight’s impulsive, adventurous nature suggests hurt arising from inconsistency or a lack of commitment. Whether the wound is recent or from the past, it can affect current relationships and self-worth.
Learn more: Everything You Need to Know About the Wands in Tarot
Card 2
6 of Cups
The 6 of Cups is a card of nostalgia and memory. As an obstacle, it points to being stuck in the past—clinging to memories or longing for a return to what once was. This fixation can prevent healing and keep you trapped in old patterns even when the present offers different possibilities.
Card 3
The High Priestess
The High Priestess, appearing as the path forward, calls for introspection and inner work. She symbolizes intuition, hidden truths, and the subconscious. Moving beyond the hurt requires honest self-reflection, quiet meditation, and facing uncomfortable feelings so they can be released.
Read more: You Pulled the High Priestess Tarot Card — Now What?
Embrace the Last Quarter Moon
Each month, the last quarter Moon offers a chance to let go of lingering pains and to clear space for growth. Some wounds run deep and remain outside conscious awareness, yet they still shape behavior and emotional responses. Tarot can help surface those hidden issues, offering clarity and practical steps for release.
Use this spread during the waning phase to identify what needs to be released, understand the obstacles that keep you tied to the past, and find a grounded path toward healing. The last quarter Moon is an invitation to forgive, reconcile, and step into greater freedom.
Up next: Shake Off Stress with this 4-Card Tarot Spread