By Michelle Lewis, The Blessings Butterfly
If you’ve spent any time dabbling in astrology or even casually connecting with witchy, pagan, and magickal folk then you’ve undoubtedly heard some buzz about the start of Eclipse Season. But what does that even mean? Don’t worry boo, I got you! Geek out with me for the science and the metaphysical nerdy goodness! [tl/dr: Eclipses are hella cool, scroll down for a free eclipse tarot spread]
The Science Part
Eclipse seasons occur roughly every six months when the Sun is near the lunar nodes, which are the points where the Moon’s orbit intersects the ecliptic (the apparent path of the Sun across the sky). During an eclipse season, eclipses are more likely to occur because the Earth, and Moon are more closely aligned.
Eclipses typically happen in solar-lunar pairs, meaning that a solar eclipse will follow a lunar eclipse, usually within two weeks of each other. Occasionally, there will be a third eclipse but that’s more rare.
Both lunar and solar eclipses appear as either partial or total. Lunar eclipses can also be penumbral, casting only a faint shadow on the moon’s surface. Solar eclipses can also be annular, resulting in a dramatic “ring of fire” effect.
Lunar Eclipses
The next lunar eclipse will be March 24-25, 2024. This eclipse will be visible from parts of North and South America, as well as parts of Europe, Africa, and Asia. However, the eclipse will not be as prominent as a total lunar eclipse, as only a portion of the Moon will be covered by the Earth’s shadow. It will be a penumbral lunar eclipse where the Moon travels through the Earth’s penumbra, the light outer part of its shadow, making the eclipse itself barely visible, but still very much felt (more of this in the metaphysical section).
We will experience a second lunar eclipse September 17-18, 2024. This will be a partial eclipse and visible from every continent, depending on atmospheric conditions.
Solar Eclipses
The highlight of this year’s eclipse season will be a total solar eclipse on April 8, 2024. This eclipse will be visible from North America, particularly from parts of Mexico, the United States, and Canada. The path of totality will stretch from the Pacific coast of Mexico, across the United States, and into Canada, passing through regions such as Texas, Arkansas, Illinois, Indiana, Ohio, New York, Vermont, New Hampshire, and Maine. Outside of the path of totality, observers will still witness a partial solar eclipse.
BTW, my husband and I will be traveling for this eclipse and will be sharing our adventures on Instagram at @blondeladyandbaldguy if you’d like to follow along!
The second solar eclipse this year will be October 2, 2024. This will be an annular “ring of fire” eclipse visible from parts of South America, especially Chile and Argentina.
The Metaphysical Part
Eclipses have held profound metaphysical significance across various cultures and belief systems throughout history. Here are some metaphysical aspects associated with eclipses:
- Symbolism of Transformation: Eclipses are often seen as powerful symbols of transformation and change. They mark moments of transition, both on a personal and collective level.
- Alignment of Energies: Metaphysically, eclipses are believed to align cosmic energies in unique ways. You might view eclipses as moments when the energies of the Sun, Moon, and Earth converge, creating potent opportunities for spiritual growth, manifestation, and healing.
- Amplified Spiritual Influence: Eclipses are thought to amplify the influence of celestial bodies on earthly affairs. This heightened energy can lead to intensified emotions, heightened intuition, and increased sensitivity. It’s not uncommon to experience profound insights or spiritual awakenings during eclipses.
- Karmic Reckoning: In some belief systems, eclipses are seen as times when karmic energies are particularly active. Consequently, eclipses are often associated with letting go of old patterns, resolving conflicts, and moving forward with greater clarity and purpose.
- Portal for Ritual and Intention Setting: Many spiritual traditions view eclipses as auspicious times for ritual work, meditation, and intention setting. Practitioners may engage in ceremonies or practices aimed at releasing what no longer serves them and aligning with their deepest desires and intentions for the future.
- Astrological Significance: Astrologically, eclipses are potent indicators of major shifts and developments in both individual and collective consciousness. They often coincide with significant events or turning points in people’s lives and in the world at large.
Eclipse Tarot Spread
To thank you for reading this far I made a fun little tarot spread for you! You can use it for any or all of the upcoming eclipses to gain some insight about the changes in your life.
Want to read more about tarot and astrology? Check out these articles: 2024 Tarot Card of the Year: Strength A Beginner’s Guide to Tarot: Major Arcana and The 4 Suits Get Started Learning Tarot Astrology for Introspection: Find your own patterns and make your own meaning Fringe Dwellers in the Archives: Wiccans, Pagans, and Astrologers, oh my!<br>Alternative Women and Their Histories<br>
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