Full Moon and Total Lunar Eclipse
The Full Moon rises in sidereal Scorpio on the night of May 25th, reaching exact opposition to the Sun on Tuesday, May 26th at 7:14 am ET. Its proximity to the lunar nodes, Rahu and Ketu, stimulates a total lunar eclipse, spanning from 4:47 am until 9:49 am, with the maximum eclipse at 7:18 am ET. This eclipse along the Scorpio-Taurus axis could have particularly strong effects on those areas of your life indicated by these signs, dependent on the natal placements of the nodes.
Scorpio Full Moon
The full Moon in Scorpio occurs when the Sun is in sidereal Taurus, a steady earth sign ruled by Venus. When the Moon is illuminated by this light in the opposite sign of Scorpio, an insect-like water sign, the part of us that has a protective shell and likes to scurry into dark places may peak its head out and stand confidently in the light for a moment. Thus, inner strength is available for unfurling, as we allow ourselves to go beneath the surface and accept of the strong emotions that can be found there. Vulnerability is a keyword here, as we realize that we must relax our guard a bit in order to live as our fullest selves.
Anuradha Nakshatra
This full Moon is in Anuradha nakshatra, a star of success and friendship. Ruled by the god Mitra, one of the Adityas, he can bring forth friendship, harmony, and good faith. There is a lot of devotion available under this nakshatra, related to goddess Radha. Those with a natal Moon here may find this full Moon stimulating effects relating to the Moon in your personal chart.
Super Flower Blood Moon
This full Moon and lunar eclipse is being referred to buy many as the Super Flower Blood Moon. The “blood” moon part refers to the red color that will appear as the earth’s shadow passes over the Moon. The map above shows where on earth you will be able to view part or all of the eclipse. The “flower” indication is a western name given to the full Moon occuring during this time of year when many flowers are blooming. The “super” term refers to the Moon’s proximity to earth at this time, making it appear slightly larger and fuller than most other full Moons of the year.
Total Lunar Eclipse
An eclipse of any sort is considered inauspicious in Hindu culture, and many others as well, as the light that usually guides us becomes obscured temporarily. As the Moon relates with our mind and hearts, the mind may feel particularly cloudy as the lunar node, Ketu, casts his energetic shadow over Chandra. The nodes can bring forward “shadows” in our minds, parts of ourselves that we are not normally able or willing to see. This can be a disruptive energy for many people as stress seems to rise and confusion often follows. It is best not to make any rash decisions during the eclipse, especially those based out of stress. But with dedicated spiritual practice that helps one to come to clarity, some large realizations can sometimes occur.
In Hindu culture it is recommended not to look directly at the eclipse, nor to be outside in its light, and neither eat nor drink during the eclipse. Chanting, praying, or meditating are the optimal choices for passing through the eclipse period. This is the first of two eclipses that will occur this cycle, with the second, a solar eclipse, occurring on June 10th. After that the intense energy brought on by the eclipse cycle may dissipate, and we can work on integrating the lessons learned during this time.