The Full ‘Blood Moon’ in Sidereal Leo has begun. The maximum eclipse occurs at the end of the Full Moon on March 3rd at 3:33 am pacific time. This Full Moon carries a total lunar eclipse that will be at least partially visible across much of the world, essentially excluding Europe, Africa and the Middle East. Though it may be visually striking, from the Vedic perspective it is not advised to look directly at an eclipse. Eclipses are considered intensifiers- powerful for spiritual practice, but less supportive for worldly matters. Looking at an eclipse is said to magnify the effects of Rahu and Ketu in our lives. These shadow planets tend to accelerate extremes. Rahu, the North Node, represents obsession, over-focus, anxiety, and projected fears. Ketu, the South Node, though spiritual in nature, can bring loss, disappointment, disassociation, and disconnection. When we are striving for balance in worldly life, their influence can push us towards dysregulation. This is why emotions often run high during eclipses.
This second eclipse of the current cycle occurs at 18 degrees Leo with Ketu. It is called a ‘blood moon’ because of the red color created as sunlight filters through the Earth’s atmosphere. Classical texts regard a red moon as more inauspicious for world events, a theme that appears to have intensified in recent days.
On the personal level, the Full Moon Eclipse in Leo with Ketu may draw our awareness back into the past, revealing what blocks our authentic Self and self-expression. Ketu compels us to release, whether we want to or not. Ketu also can coax us to distract or disassociate, especially when experiences become overwhelming. If we can stay present with the discomfort, this eclipse can bring hidden things to light, give deep insights, and even offer clarity and a new perspective in the days that follow.
From almost every astrological angle, this cycle that began February 17th has been a strong one and will likely last through March. On February 28th Mars, the planet of conflict and aggression, transited 4 degrees Aquarius, the sensitive point of the last eclipse and a possible astrological trigger for recent world events. Rahu and Mars, a fierce and volatile combination, remain together in Aquarius until April 2nd, with an exact conjunction occurring on March 13th. With Mercury also retrograde until March 20th, this concentration of planets in Aquarius creates particularly intense conditions.
We must continue living our lives, ideally as fearlessly as possible, but it is also wise to move with awareness, common sense and even perhaps some caution in this upcoming month. When the external world becomes unsettled, the best medicine is to cultivate the equilibrium within.
Love and Blessings,
Mrin
