When Bonnie Tyler sang her song, “Total Eclipse of the Heart” in 1983, little did she know that the lyrics would be a metaphor for the total eclipse of the moon that’s about to happen today – 35 years later. This event will not only be the longest lunar eclipse of the century, but it will happen during a full blood moon and take place when Mars is in retrograde.
So, what does this super trifecta mean? Well, as Tyler sings, “Every now and then I get a little bit restless, and I dream of something wild … Every now and then I get a little bit helpless, and I'm lying like a child in your arms … Every now and then I get a little bit angry and I know I've got to get out and cry … Every now and then I fall apart.” That “every now and then” is happening NOW!
Blame it on the eclipse
If you have been feeling unusually moody lately or experiencing a strong shift in all of your emotions, this eclipse is most likely to blame. A full moon alone can cause strange things to happen, and astrologers will tell you that the energy a full moon radiates is unpredictable. Full moons can offer up intense happiness, but they can also bring about chaos and stress. However, combine a full blood moon (getting its name from the reddish hue it takes on when the Earth and sun align and block light to the moon) and a total lunar eclipse, and the intensity becomes even more unpredictable. It can create an emotional tipping point.
What's more, the planets that influence an eclipse also play a role in how they will affect you. This lunar eclipse is mainly influenced by Mars, a planet known astrologically to cause anger and frustration. One of Tyler’s lyrics, “We're living in a powder keg and giving off sparks” appropriately explains the reckless behavior that can happen during a Mars-influenced, blood moon lunar eclipse. Don’t be surprised if you feel easily aggravated, feel the need to vent or want to lash out at the world today – the eclipse made you do it!
How will the eclipse affect you?
The blending of energies between the moon and Mars cannot go unnoticed. Astrologically, the Moon represents emotions and feelings and Mars symbolizes passion and drive. During the eclipse, they will also be in the sign of Aquarius. Under Aquarius, objectivity and problem solving is known to happen. So, when you combine emotions and passion and problem solving, it becomes a time of possible turbulence and change, especially with relationships.
Even though all signs will feel the effects of the eclipse under Mars’ influence, some will feel them more than others. Taurus, Leo, Scorpio and Aquarius, which are fixed signs; Cancer, which is ruled by the Moon; and Aries, which is ruled by Mars will be affected the most.
Here’s a quick breakdown of how each Astrological sign will feel the effects of the eclipse:
Leo (July 23 - August 22)
This is a time to find your inner strength because, as a sun sign, your light is blocked during the eclipse. This might cause you to overreact to the littlest things, crush your ego or, worse, crush your relationship. Try to recognize how to your emotions and you will be able to celebrate your Birthday month unaffected by the eclipse.
Virgo (August 23 - September 22)
You will be minimally affected by the eclipse. But, while you may not be directly affected, you need to be a support system to anyone around you who needs it. But you're good at being there for others, so this shouldn’t be a problem.
Libra (September 23 - October 22)
You are known as fair and forgiving, but the effect of the eclipse may be liberating. It will help you separate the genuine people in your life from the ones that aren’t true friends.
Scorpio (October 23 - November 21)
As an expert at thinking things through, the effects this blood moon may have on you will be something you can handle if you take your time. You will feel the lunar eclipse internally and your emotions will be in turmoil. Take your time, breathe and don’t make any serious decisions during this time.
Sagittarius (November 22 - December 21)
This is a time where you have to use your conversation skills and curiosity to engage others. Ask those close to you how they are feeling and help those who are struggling through this emotional time. Keep upbeat and optimistic with those around you.
Capricorn (December 22 - January 19)
As an earth sign, you may find the high emotions around you very impractical. You can be, however, a stabilizing factor for those around you. So, be patient with others’ emotions and help others to calm down.
Aquarius (January 20 - February 18)
Even though you are typically objective when it comes to emotions, this lunar eclipse may cause you to make rash decisions. Try not to act too fast and don’t let your emotions take over – especially negative ones.
Pisces (February 19 - March 20)
Being a water sign, you will feel the effects of the lunar eclipse, but as a natural pacifist you'll also know how to escape the intense emotional impact. You have a gentle approach that will help you avoid any negative energy from others.
Aries (March 21 - April 19)
Aries are natural born leaders and after this lunar eclipse you might step into a powerful role. But, the combination of the lunar eclipse and blood moon will bring a new kind of duality into your life that you're not used to. You might experience the lowest of lows and the highest of highs, without much middle ground.
Taurus (April 20 - May 20)
The eclipse will have an effect on your love life if you are in a relationship. You will also be affected at home and work, if you let it happen. If you feel volatile and unstable, this is a good time to tap into your vast amount of patience and perseverance.
Gemini (May 21 - June 20)
You will be mostly immune to the effects of the eclipse. But, be careful, once the eclipse is over, your reckless behavior might be reflected off the moon. If you are in a relationship with any sign that is most affected, be prepared for heavy emotions on their part.
Cancer (June 21 - July 22)
Ruled by the Moon, you will feel this eclipse quite strongly in all aspects of your life. If you're in healthy relationship, your partner may get some moodiness from you but should be able to tolerate it. If your relationship isn't so healthy and you've been meaning to move on, this blood moon will give you the necessary energy and strength to leave and never look back.
Transformation
No matter what sign you are, you will be affected by this longer-than-normal-Mars-influenced lunar eclipse. The influence will happen either directly or indirectly. Lunar eclipses are times of change – of transformation. If you feel like your emotions have been building the past few months, the blood moon and lunar eclipse can wipe the slate clean.
Let this period cleanse your soul, rid yourself of unwanted emotional baggage and help you move on. It might be painful and there may be tears, but think of this lunar eclipse as a way to speed up your internal transformation and lead you toward your destiny. Even Total Eclipse of the Heart ended with hope, "And if you only hold me tight...We'll be holding on forever … And we'll only be making it right … Forever’s gonna start tonight."
So, let tonight’s total eclipse of the moon change you forever.
