What is Eclipse Season All About?
Eclipse season occurs twice a year. They occur when there is an alignment between the Sun, Moon and Earth on the nodal axis. The nodal axis consists of two fixed points in space. They are referred to as the north node and the south node, and in astrology, their location in the natal, or birth chart are representative of our karmic path and our souls evolution in this lifetime. These points represent the location where the orbit of the moon around the earth makes contact with the earth’s orbit around the sun. The unique line up of these three celestial bodies creates a powerful energetic vortex that can have transformative effects in our lives.
Eclipses happen when the sun or moon comes into contact with the north or south nodes. The nodes represent our karmic path. What we are here to release from past cycles and what our souls are being called to step into in this lifetime. They allow us an opportunity for our soul to grow and expand in our personal evolution.
It is always a time of heightened energy that may feel intense, chaotic, confusing or ungrounded. These powerful celestial events create opportunities for personal growth through major turning points and profound transformation. They open an energetic portal that provides us with a gateway for growth through attunement to the energies, both consciously or unconsciously.
The motto of eclipse season is “expect the unexpected”. It is a time to embrace change and trust in the universe’s unfolding plan for our lives. The best way to work with this energy is by letting go and allowing the divine to do the work. This is a practice in surrendering and understanding that we cannot control outside forces or the will of nature.
Eclipse season is seen as a powerful time for meditation and spiritual growth. Unlike other moon cycles, manifesting practices are not supported at this time, because of the unpredictability of the energies. Therefore the best way to work with this lunar season is through a dedication to a spiritual or introspective practice that allows you to connect with yourself, spirit or nature (or all three). Practices like meditation, breathwork, yoga or journaling are encouraged, as they help us to connect more deeply with ourselves and the divine. During this time you can also spend time in nature and listen to your inner wisdom and take note of your needs. Taking time to rest your body and your mind can be extremely rejuvenating and serve as a reminder that passive rest is needed and nourishing.
Eclipses are compared to supercharged moons. Their energies can be felt one month before the event and up to six months after the event. This is especially true if it touches a major aspect (sun, moon, rising, or nodal placements) in your natal chart. To see what part of your life will be highlighted, look at the house that the sign the eclipse is in falls in your chart. Its placement will key you into the themes that may come up for you during this time.
While the aforementioned guidelines apply for all eclipses, the energetics for solar and lunar eclipses are different. Solar eclipses are often associated with external changes and can be a time of high energy and movement. During a solar eclipse, the Moon passes between the Earth and the Sun, temporarily blocking the Sun's light. This represents a time of new beginnings and symbolizes a fresh start. Because the light of the sun is temporarily blocked, there may be things going on that we are unable to see and will take time to show themselves.
Lunar eclipses differ in the order of the alignment of the celestial bodies involved, and therefore have a different energetic tone. During lunar eclipses, the Earth passes between the Sun and the Moon, casting a shadow on the Moon. These cycles represent a time of letting go and releasing old patterns and habits. They are often associated with internal changes and can be a time of reflection and introspection.
Eclipse season can be an exciting time, but it can also bring lethargy and overwhelm. Wherever your experience lands you, remember to be kind to yourself while you navigate these energies. Body work or somatic sessions, in addition to epsom salt baths, and breathing exercises can all help support you during this time. Pay attention to any patterns and habits that are coming to light and seek support if you need it.
