Astrology by Lisa Stardust

WHAT IS UNIQUE ABOUT THE SOLAR ECLIPSE?

Solar eclipses are very potent New Moons. They occur when the Moon comes between the Sun and Earth, then casts a shadow over Earth. We are usually unable to see the Sun’s rays when this happens. April 19/20’s lunation is considered to be a rare hybrid eclipse (the last

one occurred in 2013 and the next hybrid eclipse is happening in 2031). It is a combination of an annular and total eclipse. This means that the Moon’s shadow moves across the Earth differently, due to the Earth’s curve.

WHAT IS ASTROLOGICALLY SPECIAL ABOUT THIS ECLIPSE?

The Aries solar eclipse is upon us! April 19 at 9:12 PM PT and April 20 at 12:12 AM ET bring the lunation that will rock our spring. The solar eclipse occurs at 29 degrees Aries, which means that it falls at an anorectic degree. This is the second Aries New Moon of the season. March 21 brought the first New Moon, at the early degrees of Aries. The same sentiments apply, but we were assessing and deciphering information. Now, we are wiser, smarter, and more knowledgeable — so we won’t be proceeding with caution. The sensitive point makes people feel as though they’re in a constant rush and cannot slow down. Also, it can cause frustrations around decision-making — people either fully commit or waver. Emotions will be high, as well as the need to assert sentiments in a big and bold way.

Luckily, the eclipse is in alignment with the fortunate fixed star Alrisha. This star will offer protection against negativity and enemies. So, if people are giving us the evil eye, the bad vibes won’t have an impact on us. Alrisha can bring tensions within familial ties (or even friendships) to light as a way to better relationships. The only way to repair problems is to deal with them head-on. Being that this star is beneficial, you could find yourself having a closer connection with your family or friends than you ever imagined.

Later in the day, on the 20th, the Sun enters Taurus. Although this would usually give us a reprieve from the cosmic intensity (since Taurus is a peaceful zodiac sign), Pluto’s fraught aspect can create power struggles and arguments. Try using compassion and kindness when addressing others. Instead of letting anger or anxiety lead your emotions, let yourself cool down and think about how you can communicate effectively — rather than passionately.

Mercury retrograde commences on April 21. The planetary moonwalk will give us a chance to remedy issues or problems that arise during the eclipse. It’ll be a salve to circumstances that come to light at this time, offering a moment of reflection and contemplation in mending fences.

YOUR SOLAR ECLIPSE AFFIRMATION BASED ON YOUR ZODIAC SIGN:

Aries: I will focus on my needs and desires.

Taurus: I will give my mind and body a rest.

Gemini: I will rethink my professional aspirations.

Cancer: I will find balance in my personal work life.

Leo: I will allow myself to think out of the box.

Virgo: I will allow myself to feel my emotions.

Libra: I will give my all to maintain relationships and friendships.

Scorpio: I will implement beneficial daily routines into my life.

Sagittarius: I will invest more time in myself.

Capricorn: I will embrace change with open arms.

Aquarius: I will listen before reacting to information.