Embracing Eclipses: A Journey of Healing and Renewal

Reflect, Release, and Rejuvenate Under the Power of the Lunar Eclipse

Why is there a special allure when it comes to eclipses? They aren’t rare unless it’s a total solar eclipse, and even then, it has more to do with your location than how often they occur. On average, we have four eclipses every year. However, some years are exceptions. For instance, from 2018 to 2019, we had five eclipses each year, and in 2020 we experienced six. This year, as well as the next few years, we’ll experience four eclipses—two lunar and two solar. Earlier this year, on April 8th, we had a total solar eclipse, which passed through Texas, the Midwest, and the New England states in the sign of Aries. On September 17th, 2024, we will have a partial lunar eclipse in the sign of Pisces. Unlike a solar eclipse, which is only visible in a smaller swath of the Earth, a lunar eclipse can be viewed from anywhere as long as it’s nighttime while the eclipse occurs. This is because Earth casts its shadow on the Moon, as opposed to the Moon blocking our view of the Sun.

From Ireland to China to the Mayan ruins, ancient civilizations recorded the events of eclipses. Even biblical texts reference a possible lunar eclipse during Jesus' crucifixion. In the recounting of events, the Moon was described as turning to blood, which could refer to the red hue reflected during a lunar eclipse. Using eclipse data, scholars have pinpointed a possible date for the crucifixion: Friday, April 3rd, 33 CE. The Quran also mentions a solar eclipse before the birth of Muhammad and during the passing of his son, Ibrahim.¹

Historically, astrology, particularly in ancient times, viewed eclipses as ominous signs. They were often interpreted as the gods’ displeasure with humanity or as predictions of a fallen kingdom. This makes sense, as astrology was then focused more on the ruling class than the subjects. In modern astrology, we take a very different approach. While we still feel that eclipses have the power to change our course, we recognize that leadership doesn’t change every few months despite the frequency of eclipses. Yet, many of us, astrologers and laypeople alike, feel a heightened sense of importance when there’s an eclipse—a supercharge of astrological energy, so to speak. But is this heightened energy reflected by the planets or simply the excitement of witnessing a unique event in the sky?

If eclipses hold significance, I would equate it to an extra boost to the already heightened energy of the full Moon—or, in the case of a solar eclipse, the Sun. I’m not saying I doubt the influence of eclipses, but we actually experience them more often than we do Mercury retrogrades. That means, in my 58 years here on Earth, I’ve experienced over 235 eclipses so far. Granted, half of those were lunar and half solar, and I was likely in the path of only a few total solar eclipses. Nonetheless, eclipses are worth noting.

Now that I’ve downplayed the eclipse, let me shift gears to what I believe eclipses are masters of: marking the beginning and end of long chapters in life. Eclipses delineate cycles, and as someone whose chart ruler is the Moon, I find this incredibly meaningful. Astrology, with all its patterns and cycles, is something I fully embrace. Eclipses oscillate between two zodiac signs on the same polarity, such as Pisces and Virgo, but they sometimes interplay with neighboring signs. For example, in 2024, we had a lunar eclipse in Libra in March, a solar eclipse in Aries in April, and on September 17th, we’ll have a lunar eclipse in Pisces. On October 2nd, we will experience a solar eclipse in Libra. We won’t see a Virgo lunar eclipse, Pisces’ opposite sign, until March 13th, 2025. The cycle of eclipses in either Pisces or Virgo will continue through February 20th, 2027, with a final Virgo lunar eclipse closing this chapter.

With the frequency of eclipses, I believe that taking a broader view offers more insight. While life-changing shocks can occur, often triggered by Uranus, where we can pinpoint an event that ignited future developments, eclipses often unfold their influence over time. In my previous article, Pisces Lunar Eclipse: Closing Chapters, Opening Doors, I explored the influence of Neptune and Trump. If you haven’t read it yet, I recommend doing so, especially since I lay out the dates of upcoming Pisces and Virgo eclipses. However, this article isn’t about politics but about our personal stories.

Eclipses mark the beginning and end of long chapters in your life, and these shifts may not be immediately apparent. You might need to reflect on life events or external factors that influenced you. Given the series of eclipses, multiple scenarios could have played out, some seemingly insignificant at the time, while others may have felt monumental. Consider the life events you experienced between September 2015 and February 2017. Remember, eclipses often trigger events behind the scenes, so the impact might not manifest on the day of the eclipse. It may take time.

To help jog your memory—since it’s been nearly a decade—you can ask yourself a series of questions:

• Did someone pass away?

• Was there an illness with you or someone else?

• Were there mental stresses or health concerns?

• How was your work culture? Was there stress?

• Did you have a change in jobs or careers?

• Were your daily routines interrupted?

• Did your pets have health issues or cross over the rainbow bridge?

• Did your perspective on spirituality shift?

• Were you or someone close to you incarcerated, institutionalized, or hospitalized?

• Did you have disagreements or criticisms with others, or were you being criticized?

• Was there a change to your health routine—either starting one or ending health habits?

• Were you in a caregiver role?

• Did you have to help someone else with their daily tasks?

By now, you’ve probably noticed a theme, and if you answered yes to any of the above questions, you were likely impacted by the Virgo-Pisces polarity of the eclipses. Since then, you’ve been dealing with the aftershocks of those experiences. However, as I mentioned in my previous article about the eclipse, we were left with unresolved eclipse energy, which is a good thing for the next series of eclipses in Virgo and Pisces. Now is the time to heal, release, and close those chapters from the past. This is due to the upcoming lunar eclipses that tie up loose ends from the last Virgo-Pisces cycle.

If none of the above questions resonate with you, this eclipse may only have a slight impact on you, feeling more like a typical full moon—a closing of a cycle from six months prior. Usually, we experience inflection points when several events happen in a relatively short span of time, lasting between one to three years. Fortunately, most of us don’t live in a constant state of upheaval. If you follow astrology content creators, it can sometimes sound like we’re facing the end of the world. The reality is that while astrological transits impact some people significantly, the energy often affects only a small portion of the population. This is why I strive to give you a broader perspective. The last thing I want is to be the one shouting, “The sky is falling!”

Recap of the September 17th Eclipse Energy

On the day of the lunar eclipse, September 17th, the Sun will form a beautiful Earth grand trine with Uranus in Taurus and Pluto in Capricorn, which can be quite transformative for our souls. The Moon will also be sextile Uranus and Pluto, so unexpected feelings may arise—feelings that can be cathartic. There will be a square between Venus in Libra and Pluto, giving us an opportunity to tap into the power of love, especially self-love. Mercury in Virgo will help us engage in deep thought, and with its square to Jupiter, we’ll be able to explore past pains with a broader perspective. Chiron, in opposition to Venus and sextile to Jupiter, gives us the chance to release what’s been holding us back with grace and kindness.

Now that we’ve looked at the larger astrological forces at play on the day of the lunar eclipse, it’s time to take a more personalized approach.

How to Heal, Release, and Take Action by Rising Sign:

While eclipses mark significant turning points for everyone, the way these changes manifest in your life depends on your unique astrological chart. To help you navigate this energy, let's explore how the September 17th lunar eclipse will impact each rising sign. I recommend reading for your rising sign first, but don’t forget to check your Sun and Moon signs for additional insight into your soul’s journey and emotional connections.

Aries and Libra:

The lunar eclipse will occur along your 6th and 12th house axis, focusing on your physical and spiritual health. Ask yourself: Are you taking care of yourself? What are you holding onto from the past? Have you taken time for yourself, or have you been bogged down by tasks and daily routines?

The best approach for Aries and Libra risings is to tap into your spirituality and meditate. Aries folks often have a lot of energy, and the idea of sitting still might feel like a waste of time. With this in mind, I suggest blending a spiritual experience with physical activity. You can do this through a walk or a run, or substitute with any physical activity you enjoy.

Before your walk or run, take three deep cleansing breaths. Slowly inhale through your nose, allowing the air to fill your belly, and then exhale through your mouth. Do this three times. As you walk or run, listen to relaxing, meditative music or immerse yourself in nature if possible. During your exercise, focus on your 6th house of health and have a conversation with your higher being—whether that’s God, the universe, your higher self, or whatever resonates with you.

Reflect on the period from 2015 through 2017. Think about what you’ve learned from that time and how much you’ve grown. If you lost someone, a pet, or a job, have a mental conversation with them. For instance, you might say, “I worked at your company for X years, and I developed these skills. Since I left, I’ve used these skills in various ways. I’m grateful for the experience, even though my exit felt uncomfortable at the time. Now, I see it was part of my personal growth.”

As you go through each memory, recognize your growth and express gratitude. Thank the higher force for giving you those opportunities—whether it was knowing people, taking care of them, or even losing them. Each experience, even the hard ones, allows us to be part of the human experience.

At the end of your walk or run, take three more deep breaths. As you exhale, release any residual energy from the past. Imagine the energy leaving every cell of your body, rising through your spine, lungs, throat, and out through your mouth. Visualize it dissipating into the air, rising up into the universe. Bask in your sense of accomplishment.

Taurus and Scorpio:

With the lunar eclipse transiting your 5th and 11th house axis, this is a time to connect with friends and express yourself creatively. It’s about stepping outside your comfort zone and embracing vulnerability. This eclipse reminds you that healing can happen through relationships, socializing, and creative pursuits.

There’s no rush to do everything on the day of the eclipse. Since eclipses happen in a series, we’re looking at a longer period of time. Today, focus on making plans with friends. Text your group and suggest activities. The more friends involved, the better. Whether it’s lunch, attending an event, or a night out dancing, joy and laughter will help you release residual heaviness from seven to nine years ago.

This is also a great time to get involved in social causes. Being part of a group, especially one that benefits humanity, helps you connect with the collective. Look into volunteer opportunities or join groups that resonate with you. When you help others and make friends in the process, there’s a vibrational healing that takes place, connecting your soul to a larger purpose.

Creativity is another powerful release during this time. Join classes in art, dance, acting, or music to activate healing. In the past, I’ve taken pottery classes with friends, and the laughter and joy we shared while getting muddy helped lighten my mood and heal old wounds. Joy is healing. Laughter is a release.

Take time to play. Attend carnivals, festivals, or state fairs. Play miniature golf or visit an arcade. It doesn’t matter what you do, as long as you keep it light-hearted and let your inner child have fun. As your spirit takes over, the heavy energy within you will be shaken out, allowing you to embrace higher vibrations.

After socializing or enjoying a creative pursuit, be grateful for the happiness you feel. The more gratitude you cultivate, the more comfortable you’ll be with having fun. When you look back at past events, you’ll see that the residual pain is being replaced with joy.

Gemini and Sagittarius:

The lunar eclipse will activate your 4th and 10th house polarity. Reflect on how the events of 2015-2017 affected your relationships with family and co-workers. Did you feel isolated? Did you lose the foundation of what you once had? How has your career changed since then?

Gemini and Sagittarius often focus on either knowing a little about everything or taking a big-picture approach. While this has helped you build bridges with others, the past may have pulled you away from your usual diplomatic approach, particularly during stressful situations. You might have butted heads with loved ones or colleagues, feeling frustrated that they didn’t share your perspective. But ask yourself: Did you consider that they had different experiences and perspectives? And, is it possible that neither of you had all the answers?

This is a time for healing and expanding your wings. It’s about stepping into someone else’s shoes and seeing things from their point of view. For example, let’s say a family member voted for a candidate you opposed. Take time to consider their upbringing, the fears they faced, and why they felt drawn to a group or candidate with values different from yours. Then, ask yourself what life events led you to make your choices.

By examining others’ perspectives, we cultivate empathy. Empathy isn’t about agreeing with someone—it’s about understanding. Humans grow through empathy because it allows us to connect with people we wouldn’t normally choose to engage with. Nonetheless, we live in a world with diverse views, and learning to understand others is part of our growth.

Over the next few years, keep a journal or meditate on those with differing perspectives. For instance, if a co-worker believes only people with a particular degree should be hired, ask them why they think that. Listen carefully without sharing your opinion right away. Ask more questions about their perspective. You might gain insight that broadens your understanding of diversity in thought.

When we connect with others and their viewpoints, we create healing within ourselves. Life becomes less about 'us versus them' and more about 'we are many diverse pieces of a beautiful puzzle.' Listening to others and journaling about their perspectives can open doors to deeper understanding. As you ponder and meditate while writing, you may be amazed at how your perspective widens and heals.

Cancer and Capricorn:

The eclipse resonates with your 3rd and 9th houses, emphasizing both foundational learning and deeper philosophical exploration. Reflect on how the events of 2015-2017 changed your understanding of your community and family. Did those experiences bring you closer to siblings and neighbors, or did they create distance? During that time, did you feel like you had to have all the answers, even though you might not have been fully equipped to handle the crises?

As cardinal signs, Cancer and Capricorn are known for taking charge in moments of crisis. For example, if a pet fell ill, you likely sought second or third opinions, read every article you could find, and explored every possible remedy. But did you allow others to help, or did you bear the burden alone? Were you so focused on resolving the situation that you neglected your other relationships and responsibilities?

The next few years offer you the opportunity to reflect on these past events and uncover the lessons they hold. Eclipses reveal that, no matter how much knowledge we gather, certain events are destined to unfold. Through reflection, you can begin to understand these experiences and how they shaped your life.

For Cancer risings, there may have been an urge to replay events, wondering if having more knowledge could have changed the outcome. For Capricorn risings, you might have moved on, believing what’s done is done. However, neither of these approaches truly leads to healing. The key is finding a middle ground—not obsessing over the past or dismissing it, but seeking a higher perspective.

What can you do? Start by reconnecting with siblings, neighbors, and your community—not to dwell on the past, but to build supportive relationships in the present. If you’ve experienced loss and are still grieving, consider joining a local support group. It’s never too late to heal, and connecting with others who have had similar experiences can offer new ways to cope.

Exploring broader life themes—through astrology, philosophy, religious studies, or esoteric practices—can also provide insight. Engaging in a learning environment where you hear how others have navigated similar challenges can help you find balance. The process of letting go involves embracing the past, understanding the lessons it brought, and releasing it with love. Through this, you can find grace, forgiveness, and, ultimately, healing.

Leo and Aquarius:

The focus is on your 2nd and 8th houses with this lunar eclipse. Between 2015 and 2017, you may have dealt with managing someone else's finances, shared resources, or a shift in your values. Events during this time could have affected your finances, or you may have had to attend to tasks behind the scenes, such as managing an estate or inheritance due to the passing or illness of a loved one.

Finances and property can weigh heavily on us, especially when we're responsible for managing someone else’s resources. Likely, you had a close relationship with the person involved, so as you handled paperwork and logistics, your heart may have been burdened. This could have shifted your perspective on life and death.

Now, it's time to heal and release this period. If you’re no longer responsible for managing someone else's assets, or if your financial affairs are resolved, it’s time to put things in order. This could involve a small ritual of boxing up old documents and storing them. As you do this, imagine closing that chapter of your life. Whether the outcome was ideal or not, give yourself credit for doing your best. Often, the work of managing someone else's estate goes unrecognized, but it’s okay to acknowledge your own efforts.

As you put things away, visualize the weight lifting off your shoulders. Imagine wings growing from your back, lifting you higher, allowing your heart to expand. Connect to the higher power that helped guide you through those challenging times, whether you recognized it or not.

If you haven’t yet experienced the complexities of managing someone else's belongings, this may be a time over the next few years to prepare for future responsibilities. Have conversations with elderly loved ones about their end-of-life plans, and create your own documents. Though American society often discourages discussions about finances, wills, and death, addressing these matters now can ease future burdens. This series of lunar eclipses offers you the chance to close those gaps.

The spiritual lesson here is that we are tied to each other not only through love but also through the things we accumulate over time. Our material possessions are symbols of the memories and connections we’ve made. Balancing the material with the spiritual is key. Over the next few years, pay attention to the lessons you’ve learned from family—your grandparents, parents, siblings, and children. Reflect on which patterns serve you and which should be retired.

As you take care of the details, remember that you have the power to release the burdens that no longer serve you or your family. Focus on healing generational traumas and creating a legacy of love and openness. Take the time to remove any obstacles that could cause a burden for you or your loved ones in the future. Remind yourself that this is all part of the circle of life, and appreciate the limited time we have here on Earth.

Virgo and Pisces:

With the lunar eclipse impacting your 1st and 7th houses, you may feel the greatest sense of relief. The time from 2015 to 2017 likely affected both your sense of self and your relationships. As someone who naturally serves others, you may have felt burned out for years. You likely took on too much, perhaps even adopting a martyr syndrome, without asking for help. With your flexible nature, you said yes to every request, possibly without considering if someone else was better suited.

The next few years are a time of renewal for you—not only on a practical level but also emotionally and spiritually. It’s time to figure out what truly brings you joy and how you want to show up in your relationships. Have your personal boundaries been clear enough to maintain a balance between giving and receiving? Are you receiving the love and support you need, and if not, what’s holding you back from asking for it?

You may have spent the past few years caring for others, whether raising children, caring for elderly parents, or supporting loved ones through emotional and physical challenges. While you shouldered these responsibilities with love, it’s important to reflect on whether you allowed yourself to receive support in return. Did you create space to recharge, or did you feel obligated to carry the load alone?

If you haven’t spent enough time focusing on yourself, these lunar eclipses will guide you toward a deeper understanding of your own needs. This is a time for self-reflection and reclaiming the joy that comes from tending to your own well-being. How you present yourself to the world—your appearance, energy, and confidence—can reflect the inner healing you cultivate. Taking care of yourself is not about vanity, but about restoring your energy so you can continue to be a source of light and strength for others.

Over the next few years, allow your closest relationships to support you in the same way that you’ve supported them. Whether it’s letting your partner plan a day for you or accepting help from friends, embrace the gift of receiving. Remember that receiving is just as important as giving—it restores balance in your life and helps you replenish your energy. Acts of service, quality time, words of affirmation, and even small, meaningful gestures are all ways you can be nurtured.

To fully heal and release what’s been weighing you down, reconnect with activities that bring you pure joy. Whether it’s a bubble bath, a walk in nature, or quality time with a loved one, make space for the simple pleasures in life. As you nurture yourself, you become a beacon of light for others. Taking care of yourself is not selfish—it’s essential for your well-being and the well-being of those around you.

Make a commitment to one self-care activity each week and one activity with a close friend or loved one that brings you joy. This small but intentional practice will help you heal, recharge, and create space for new growth in your life. Let go of the idea that you need to do it all alone, and embrace the balance between giving and receiving.

In Summary:

Whether you resonate most with your rising sign or find additional insight through your Sun and Moon signs, remember that these individual reflections are part of a larger cycle. Eclipses are here to help us realign, reflect, and move forward with intention. As we prepare to close the chapter that began in 2015, let’s take a moment to embrace the lessons we’ve learned and the growth that’s yet to come.

Remember, these lunar eclipses aren’t sudden shocks to the system. Instead, they highlight areas of life that need healing. This eclipse cycle closes a chapter that began at the end of 2015. Eclipses are common, which is why I look at the series of eclipses rather than just one individual event. Above all, these eclipses remind us that we are here to fully live the human experience—one filled with growth, healing, understanding, participation, joy, and love.

As you move through the energy of this lunar eclipse, I encourage you to take time for reflection. Journaling can be a powerful way to document the shifts you’re experiencing, helping you to process past events and set clear intentions for the future. Meditation, too, offers space for inner clarity, allowing you to connect more deeply with your higher self and the lessons that this eclipse brings.

Consider taking a moment to set intentions for the next eclipse cycle. What do you want to heal, release, and create in your life over the coming months? By doing this, you actively participate in your own growth and transformation.

If you’d like deeper insight or personalized guidance tailored to your chart, feel free to reach out for a one-on-one consultation. I’m here to support you through the unique cycles and energies that shape your journey, offering clarity and understanding in these transformative times.

I'd love to hear how this eclipse energy is affecting you. Feel free to share your thoughts, experiences, or any insights in the comments below—your journey may inspire others!

1. https://science.nasa.gov/eclipses/history/