OCTOBER 28 FULL BLOOD MOON & LUNAR ECLIPSE
AS WITHIN, SO WITHOUT.
AS ABOVE. SO BELOW.
On October 28, 2023, stargazers and astrologers alike will witness the Taurus Lunar Eclipse; a deeply transformational lunation that marks the end of a chapter. Before we immerse ourselves in the rich symbolism of the Taurus Lunar Eclipse, let's first understand the broader context of this celestial occurrence. Lunar eclipses are part of a recurring cycle that takes over a period of time, generally lasting around 18 months. Lunar eclipses happen when the Earth, moon and sun align in a way that results in the earth's shadow appearing on the surface of the moon. When this happens, the Moon, which is full, takes on a reddish hue creating what is often referred to as a blood moon. Astrologically, eclipses serve as cosmic gateways that can unveil hidden truths and catalyze transformation.
TAURUS AND SCORPIO
To gain more meaningful insight into the significance of the Taurus Lunar Eclipse, we should first look at the signs involved. At the time of this eclipse, the sun will be transiting Scorpio and the Moon will be in the sign of its exaltation, Taurus. Taurus is symbolized by the steadfast bull and is ruled by Venus. When the moon transits Taurus each month our emotions tend to be a little more stable; we are more likely to crave our creature comforts and other experiences that indulge all of our bodily senses and sensations. It’s a gentle reminder of how important it is to nourish our physical bodies; not just with food but by indulging all of our senses—seeing, smelling, listening to, touching and of course tasting.
On the other end is the sun in Scorpio. Scorpio is the mystical scorpion and embodies transformation, regeneration, and the mysteries of the subconscious. Scorpio is associated with the enigmatic and secretive. You may find yourself or others being more secretive or private during this time. It's a good time for research or delving into subjects that require a deep understanding or are related to the occult.
In the shadow of this axis we are likely to be stubborn or obsessive; we may double down or bite in harder instead of pivot. For some, there may be an insatiable craving for power and control or some deep emotion that triggers them to consume more than their share.
AS ABOVE, SO BELOW
If we use a flowering plant as a metaphor; Taurus would be the observable flower above ground and Scorpio the roots beneath the soil. Taurus symbolizes the visible, tangible, and more practical aspects of existence and Scorpio represents the hidden, subterranean, and transformative elements and experiences of life. Just as a plant's roots are concealed beneath the soil, Scorpio works beneath the surface of consciousness to reveal hidden truths. What happens above ground is greatly dependent on what happens below and vice versa.
This Taurus Lunar Eclipse is the final eclipse of this series that began in late 2021 and set the stage for the eclipses of 2022 and some of 2023. Taurus is closely linked to finances, the agricultural industry, our food supply, available resources and other material possessions. A lunar eclipse in this sign may illuminate financial matters, such as debts, investments, or issues related to shared resources.
“It may prompt us to reassess our relationship with money, encouraging us to find a harmonious balance between our desire for security and our need to enjoy life’s pleasures.
What are life’s pleasures anyway? And, says who? Life’s pleasures may look different now. Are you resisting this change somewhere in your life? Chance are, this story is unfolding in your world in some way and this eclipse will be the final act; this book will soon be closed. ”
In the metaphor of the plant, a lunar eclipse in Taurus symbolizes the excavation and illumination of roots. It's a time when our emotional undercurrents and the foundations of our lives are exposed to the light of conscious awareness. A great visual is repotting a plant. When we repot plants, it's usually because they have outgrown the containers we had them in or something else wasn't quite right. When we do this it is generally good practice to examine the health of the roots of the plant. Maybe they need fertilizer or have root rot from lack of drainage holes. When we get the plant and roots out in the open we are able to make the adjustments required for continued growth. The current astrology is forcing us to re-pot some metaphysical plant under the surface of our consciousness.
What metaphysical plant are you being forced to re-home?
On a broader scale, lunar eclipses can trigger transformations in societal structures and norms. When a lunar eclipse occurs, it brings matters related to the sign in which it falls into sharp focus. The energy of that sign influences our collective and personal experiences, guiding us to confront issues that have been simmering beneath the surface. They have the potential to bring hidden truths and injustices to light, ultimately instigating changes in collective consciousness. Just as a plant's roots are vital for its survival and growth, our roots require regular care and attention.
ECLIPSE INSPIRED SHADOW WORK
Root Reflection: Set aside some quiet time for introspection. Reflect on your sense of security, values, and what truly matters to you. Write about your financial situation, material possessions, and your connection to the Earth. Explore the areas of your life where you feel stable and secure and those where you may need to strengthen your foundations. How can you better nurture and support the roots of your experience?
Sensory Exploration: Taurus is closely connected to the physical senses. In a meditative or mindful state, explore each of your senses—sight, sound, taste, touch and smell. Pay attention to the sensations they evoke and how they connect to your emotional and material experiences. Create a piece of art, poetry, or a written reflection inspired by these sensory observations.
Exploring Attachments: Taurus is associated with values and material possessions; Scorpio represents where yours merges with another’s. Use this eclipse energy to delve into your values and your attachment to material things. Reflect on what you might be overly attached to or how your possessions may be defining your self-worth or how you feel about yourself.
Observe: Go outside and look at the blood moon.
Photography by Jongsun Lee and Rui Silva. Find all of Mandee Sheeler’s astrology posts under our WELLNESS tab. Book a consultation with Mandee by visiting her website.