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Understanding Eclipse Dynamics and Harnessing Their Energy

  • Hollie McKitrick
  • Aug 24
  • 4 min read

Updated: Nov 19

Significance of Eclipses

Eclipses are powerful astrological catalysts. They can awaken dormant potentials within a natal chart. Each eclipse belongs to a Saros family, possessing a unique energetic signature. These celestial events mark significant turning points, representing both endings and beginnings. Astrologers observe that the influence of an eclipse is often not immediate. Instead, it is activated by later planetary transits.


Eclipse in black sky

Key Differences: Solar vs. Lunar Eclipses

🌕 Solar Eclipses occur during new moons. They signify initiation, fresh starts, and the opening of new chapters in life. These eclipses often catalyze events or insights that plant the seeds for change. This is especially true in areas highlighted by their sign and house placement.


🌑 Lunar Eclipses coincide with full moons. They represent culmination, closure, and resolution of ongoing processes. Lunar eclipses reveal what has been hidden, test relationships, and often signal the completion of cycles. This is particularly relevant in the areas associated with their astrological placement.


☊ ☋ Lunar Node focus also distinguishes their influence. North Node eclipses encourage growth and expansion, embodying a Jupiterian nature. Conversely, South Node eclipses emphasize release and reckoning, reflecting a Saturnian nature.


How to Use Eclipse Energy (and What to Avoid)

Solar Eclipse - Embrace New Opportunities

  • Set intentions for new beginnings, especially in the eclipse’s sign and house. Start projects, relationships, or perspectives, but leave room for unexpected developments.

  • Avoid making impulsive decisions or launching into something without careful consideration.

  • Seek grounding and clarity before acting on new ideas. The energy is intense but unpredictable.

  • Reflect on important questions:

1. What new opportunities or fresh beginnings might this eclipse bring to my life, depending on its position in my chart?

2. What small changes can I make right now to help things grow and ignite real change in this area of my life?

3. How can I invite change and avoid giving in to fear?


Lunar Eclipse - Welcome Endings and Release

  • Reflect on what has naturally come to an end.

  • Let go of outdated attachments, habits, or relationships in the area of life that the eclipse highlights.

  • Avoid clinging to the past or resisting necessary closure.

  • Steer clear of dramatic confrontations or irreversible decisions made in the heat of the moment.

  • Reflect on important questions:

1. What is coming into view or ending in the area highlighted by this eclipse’s sign and house in my chart?

2. Which relationships, habits, situations, or beliefs do I need to release so I can move forward?

3. What steps can I take to learn from where I am (and have been) so I can let go of the things and people that no longer serve my best interests?


Astrological clock

Astrological Timing

🌕 Solar Eclipses: The effects can be felt up to 90 days before and as long as a year after the event. Significant surprises often occur within a week before or after the eclipse date.


🌑 Lunar Eclipses: Energies ripple from six weeks before to six weeks afterward. The most intense period typically falls within 7-10 days of the eclipse.


🌟 Triggers: Watch for planetary transits that activate the eclipse degree. These often ‘release’ the eclipse’s impact.


Eclipse Impacts on a Natal Chart

Pay close attention to conjunctions, squares, and oppositions involving the Sun, Moon, angles, and house rulers within a tight orb (2-3° for professionals, up to 5° for broader interpretation).

  • Interpret the house where the eclipse occurs (and its opposite) for clues about the most affected areas of life.

  • Consider the Saros family for insight into the deeper thematic influence of the eclipse.


The Power of Eclipses in Our Lives

Eclipses serve as reminders of the cyclical nature of life. They encourage us to embrace change and transformation. Each eclipse invites us to reflect on our journey, urging us to release what no longer serves us. This process can be both liberating and daunting.


When we harness the energy of eclipses, we can align ourselves with the universe's rhythm. This alignment fosters personal growth and clarity. It is an opportunity to set intentions and make meaningful changes.


Embracing Change

Change can be uncomfortable, yet it is essential for growth. Eclipses push us to confront our fears and embrace new possibilities. They challenge us to step outside our comfort zones. This is where true transformation occurs.


The Role of Intention

Setting intentions during eclipses is crucial. It helps us focus our energy on what we wish to manifest. Intentions act as a guiding light, steering us through the uncertainties of change.


Navigating Relationships

Eclipses often bring relationships into focus. They can highlight dynamics that need attention. Whether it’s letting go of toxic connections or nurturing supportive ones, eclipses encourage us to evaluate our relationships.


Summary

New Moon Solar Eclipses and Full Moon Lunar Eclipses occur several times a year. They signal changes that affect many people, but the impact varies for everyone. Understanding the unique focus and energy of each eclipse, based on our specific chart, can help us reflect on where to release old expectations, habits, and emotional reactions. This reflection creates space for new growth.


Want to know more?


💲Invest in your knowledge: Understanding Eclipses is a 12-page guide that covers everything you need to know to understand, identify, and interpret eclipses in your chart! It's available for purchase here.

👩🏻‍💻 Watch this episode of Astrology with Alisa: Eclipse Wild Cards 🌑 How Eclipses Shake Up Your Life | Astro Bestie Chat

📅 Schedule a consultation on my booking page.

✅ Generate a free chart on sites like Astro.com and Astro-Seek.com. Start by counting elements/modes and noting your chart ruler and angles; even that small step can be eye-opening.

👀 Explore the sites and sources listed below.


Sources

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