Full Moon + Lunar Eclipse in Ashwini / Aries

Before we discuss “what this means,” I’d like to tell you a story about where the name Ashwini comes from. I find it easier to digest complex topics through symbols and stories, and I’m hoping you do too 😉


In the archetypal stories from India, the Sun is depicted as a living incarnation named Surya. And Surya — like his star-counterpart in the sky — is HOT. And he doesn’t necessarily try to be hot, or make himself hot. He simply is who he is… fiery! 🔥


So Surya’s wife, Sanjana, was feeling the heat. She had already given birth to three children with Surya — but the intensity of his presence was unbearable, so she left. She regretted her decision, but knew she couldn’t go back.


Perhaps you can relate (whether at work, with family, a romantic partner or otherwise) where you’d do a big life-changing moment differently if given the chance.


Regardless, we all have to understand that what’s done is done. And yet, deep in our heart is an imprint from that moment that sticks with us.


Sanjana went into the forest, and disguised herself as a mare in order to keep hidden and safe. When Surya discovered the truth of her departure, he went to find her and transformed himself into a horse in order to reestablish their relationship on a new level. A new start.


Although we never know at the time of decision how the ripples of life will affect us in the long run, this story illustrates how life meets us when we’re true to our own heart. Like Sanjana, when the heat is too much and we tend to our soul, life bends to meet our needs in the most poetic ways, like Surya and his willingness to change.


Sanjana and Surya gave birth to twins after their reunion — who are said to be born of true love and the overcoming of all obstacles. Ashwins are said to be the link between the night and the dawn of a new day, as divine messengers. Thus, the Ashwini Kumara are the twin sons of Surya and Sanjana — and natural healers of the zodiac, like the healing love between their parents. And although this story is about partnership, its symbolism extends far beyond romantic love.

Named for the Ashwini Kumara, the star cluster “Ashwini” is where Saturday’s Full Moon / Lunar Eclipse happens. Ashwini is the first of 27 “Nakshatras” or divisions of the zodiac, within the sign of Aries.


Here’s what feels real to me about this transit...


The Moon in its Full phase is normally about big, outward facing energy — but combined with the shadowy eclipse, we can mindfully direct this potent energy inward.


So for Saturday, consider a great lost love of your life. Consider hobbies you stopped, relationships that ended, identities you’ve shed, or chapters you closed. Think especially about those you regret, or which made an imprint that you’re still feeling... (go with the first thing that came to mind.)


Ready for closure? It’s time to release that weight on your heart.


Big Full Moon energy directed inward can give us the courage needed to start a new chapter... to forgive. There’s an influence from Mars here in Aries, and Mars is the planet of courage — what luck! And while life tells us a lot about forgiving OTHERS, I encourage you for this weekend to forgive YOURSELF.


Imprints (also called “samskaras”) made in our heart, especially those during our adult life, aren’t truly made ON us. It might seem that way, but true imprints that hold us back carry no other signature than our own.


☀️ WE are the holders of the imprint.
☀️ WE are the ones keeping that regret close to our heart, and as such:
☀️ WE hold the distinct ability to let go.


(deep breath I love that part.)


We can change our perception — as Surya changed himself — to meet ourself in the forest of forgiveness and find wholeness again. If we go into the process without expectation, we won’t be disappointed — instead we can see how life bends to fill empty space with goodness and love ❤️


Try this: Write a letter to the person who “made” that imprint in your heart. Apologize, write about your hurts and your feelings. Mend the wound with your words.


And then: Read the letter to yourself, as if you’re receiving the words, for yourself. See how it feels.


Wishing you peace this weekend 🙏🏻