In practice, specific lunar phases are preferred to facilitate intention.

Below is a direct quote from “The Real Witches Book of Spells and Rituals” by Kate West.

LUNAR PHASES

Direct Quote:

NEW MOON: The time for magic which involves new things, fresh starts, new beginnings. The Right of Naming, or Wiccaning, is often held at the New Moon.

WAXING MOON: This is the time of growth, and for magic which involves growth and increase.

FULL MOON: This is the traditional time for magic and particular good time for magic and spells connected with healing, protection and fertility magic. The Full Moon is also associated with all kinds of divination. Handfasting and Rights of coming of age are often held at the Full Moon.

WANING MOON: A time for sending things away; old habits, and unwanted feelings. The late Waning Moon, a day or so prior to the Dark Moon, is often a time for holding the Rite of Withdrawl. Rites of Croning are also sometimes held at this phase.

DARK OF MOON: The three days where there is no Moon visible is the sky. It is better not to work Magic or spells at the time when the Moon is hiding her face, as the energies at this time can be confusing and it is easier for things to misfire.