The First Eclipse of 2019
Happy New Year to all!
2019 is coming in with an intense start astrologically! Just a few days into the New Year we have our first eclipse! This is a Partial Solar Eclipse ( Solar eclipses are always connected to New Moons) occurring on Jan 5th UTC, starting at 23:34 and ending at 3:48 am on Jan 6th, with the maximum eclipse occurring at 1:41 am.
As you can see from the eclipse path picture, the eclipse is only hitting Eastern Asia. Generally an eclipse is most powerful when it is total, and when we are located on the eclipse path. However, it is still wise to follow some general guidelines about what to follow and avoid during this time. In addition, since eclipses come in pairs, this one begins an eclipse cycle which will complete with the total lunar eclipse on January 20th.
As most of you are located in areas where it will be night time and thus a solar eclipse is not visible, I will not recommend any particular practice or mantras during the timing. Of course if you were inclined you could set an alarm to meditate during the maximum eclipse time, but again not necessary unless you are located on the eclipse path.
But regardless of your location I would still recommend to recognize the effect of the eclipse window. Eclipses are ruled by the nodes, Rahu and Ketu, which are said to cloud our vision and make things hazy. This means that much of the planning or decision-making that we do during this window may change, or we may see things in a different light when this period passes. For this reason it is still advised to not start anything new, or at very least, try to avoid actions or decisions that are extremely binding or hard to change. Ironically, this New Year begins with a window indicating not starting new things, when so many of us start off the New Year with changes and resolutions! I mentioned at the beginning of December that the time was more ripe then for intentions. Hopefully some of you followed that advice and then what is happening now is a continuation rather than a beginning!
Though the eclipse is not as strong for the reasons mentioned above, most of us will likely feel it as the eclipse occurs in close conjunction with Saturn. The eclipse is at 21 degrees Sagittarius and Saturn is at 17 degrees, which makes a pretty close conjunction. Already the Saturn Sun conjunction in Sagittarius (from mid-December to mid- January) gives the tendency towards pessimism, a lack of self- confidence, and a general feeling of seriousness. These themes would come out strongest around the areas of work, purpose, and authority figures. Those of you with focal planets in Sag, particularly if they are around 21 degrees, will feel it the most.
On the positive side it is a favorable indication for getting things done, but often with a feeling of heaviness and duty rather than joy and fulfillment. Saturn is all about our own diligence- taking personal responsibility and making an effort. During this time, a little bit of discipline and regularity will go a long way in offsetting some of the confusion energy of this eclipse and load of planets in Sagittarius. Also, it is often a good idea to go along with the natural indications of the transits rather than fighting them. So for the time being accept the hard work and discipline that Saturn is calling forth in us.
I’ll end with the usual advice of an eclipse period- take it easy, do not start anything completely binding, go more inward than outward, and prepare for that you may see things differently after the 20th of this month. The Total Lunar Eclipse on January 20th will affect more of us on a personal level, so I will discuss that more next time.
If you would like to know more about how this eclipse cycle affects you personally then please be in touch.
Love and Blessings,
Mrinmoyee
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