Can you imagine what it would be like if your life dramatically shifted? What changes do you wish to experience? What is this skin you are shedding? In astrology, we look to the planets and luminaries to help navigate the intersection of fate and free will. By understanding the patterns at play through certain cosmic energies, we can gain insight and grounding during periods of uncertainty and chaos.
In astrology, there is a term called eclipse season. It is when two eclipses occur back to back, during the new moon and the full moon. The eclipse season begins two weeks before the first eclipse and ends two weeks after the second eclipse. This is a period of time marked by emotional intensity, dramatic changes, and karmic events. Significant people may enter or leave our lives around this time, as eclipses also bring fated endings and beginnings.
In 2024, we will have two sets of eclipses. The first eclipse is a Lunar Eclipse in Libra on March 25th. The second eclipse is a Solar Eclipse in Aries on April 7th. In the second pair, we will have a lunar eclipse in Pisces on September 17th and a solar eclipse in Libra on October 2nd. The first set of eclipses are especially significant for individuals with planets and points in the cardinal signs of Aries, Cancer, Libra, and Capricorn. Since every single individual holds all of these signs in our natal charts, we will all feel these energies on some level in different areas of our lives.
We often try to suppress or hide our emotions, even from ourselves. Eclipse season is an invitation to hold space for any and all emotions.
To understand eclipses better, let us break down the symbols and archetypes of the sun and moon. Astrologically speaking, the sun is our conscious ego self, it is our outer identity and where we shine and find vitality. The moon on the other hand, represents the inner subconscious self. It is our emotional patterns and intuition. A new moon in astrology represents a time to set new intentions for new beginnings. Full moons in astrology represent endings, celebration, and release.
A lunar eclipse happens during the full moon when the earth’s shadow blocks out the light of the moon. The solar eclipse happens when the new moon obscures the light of the sun. Eclipses are supercharged new and full moons. As such, they can bring about moments of anxiety and stress as our emotional and mental energies might be high. They can also bring about epiphanies and revelations, if we make space for them to come through. As we become engulfed by darkness, there is a lowering of energy akin to a cosmic time out. This is why it is extremely important to make time to rest and recharge during eclipses. These are not times for taking action, rather it is a time to surrender to the changes.
Eclipses also activate the Nodes of Destiny, the North and the South Nodes, which are known as the Dragon’s Head and Dragon’s Tail, respectively. The Nodes of Destiny show us where our karma is and what we need to collectively embrace and also what we need to leave behind and shed. In 2024, the North Node is transiting Aries, the sign of war and the South Node is transiting Libra, the sign of peace. Globally, we might see the genocide intensify or a ceasefire come into action.
Personally, the eclipses in Aries and Libra will impact our relationships as Aries is the sign of the self and Libra is the sign of the other. We may have to contend with this duality within ourselves of being more independent and assertive, while also compromising and balancing with others.
Eclipses are important because they force us to contend with difficult emotions we may have been hiding from. They can illuminate some kind of truth which forces us to reckon with ourselves and take responsibility. It is advised usually not to make rushed or impulsive decisions during an eclipse, rather it is better to wait until the energies are a bit more stable.
As eclipses are portals of change, they bring very powerful energies. So here are some ways we can use the eclipse energies to create change in our own lives.
Expect the Unexpected
As eclipses often bring fated events outside our control, it can help to be more accepting and flexible. Also remember that eclipse energy is not necessarily stable or long lasting. Ride the chaos and it will pass.
Meditate Regularly
Eclipses can have us feeling ungrounded, scattered, lethargic and drained. It is essential to ground ourselves at this time through meditation or prayer. This will help keep our minds clear and sharp.
Observe Patterns and Themes from the Past
Buried emotions may resurface. These are coming up for healing and releasing, and also to remind us that we are mysteriously linked to the past. Just because we thought we were able to rid ourselves of an old skeleton in the closet, does not mean it will not try to sneak back in.
Move Out of a Stagnant Situation
If an area of our life has stagnated, we can set the intentions to make the drastic change that is needed. We need to have the belief that the Universe is supporting us in your endeavours and to wait and see what unfolds.
Be Mindful
We may experience heightened emotions around this time. However, it is important that we try to temper our reactions and respond from a place of calm observance rather than impulsivity.
Feel Whatever Comes Up
We often try to suppress or hide our emotions, even from ourselves. Eclipse season is an invitation to hold space for any and all emotions. If we look at them as our teachers, we can learn a lot about ourselves.
Surrender and Release
Ultimately, the greatest lesson of the eclipse is to learn how to surrender and release. The divine lives within each and every single one of us. Our mortal existence will always bring pain and suffering, but with it, also joy, fulfilment and transcendence. Sometimes, life is less about controlling than it is about learning to surrender to what is. Only then, can we release the outdated patterns of the past and move on.