New Moon Solar Eclipse in Aries -  Self Expansion - 4/20/23

This New Moon Solar Eclipse activates the energies of new beginnings and endings simultaneously. This is the 2nd New Moon in Aries, the first having occurred on the Spring Equinox at the first degree of Aries, and now this one at the very last degree. Aries is the beginning of the zodiac and represents the birth of a new cycle, a new level of awareness and the development of the Self. New Moon’s also represent the birth of a new emotional cycle. This eclipse is conjunct the North Node so the driving force here is to get more firmly planted on the right path, one that is most aligned with your Dharma and Soul’s evolution.

The 29th degree of any of the signs is considered a critical degree, as it is the last degree before moving onto the next sign and a new cycle of development. It represents the karmic completion of lessons learned within that sign. There is a sense of urgency to wrap things up and this can often be fueled by crisis and fated events. Those that have this degree in their natal charts in any sign will feel this eclipse more deeply. Aries represents the urge to strike out on one’s one with courage, to fulfill one’s destiny and to establish the Self by making a mark in some area. At this degree the Aries energy can go off the rails if not harnessed and tempered with wisdom. People with 29th degree energy can vacillate between acting impulsively or second guessing themselves and so one has to find a balance between potential extremes. Ancient astrologers considered this degree and solar eclipses as malefic, so it is important to maintain situational awareness at all times and to be aware of potential triggers. 

This dangerous or heavy element is emphasized by a square to Pluto in Aquarius. Squares represent obstacles or challenges we have to face in order to move ahead. When Pluto is involved there can be power plays, manipulation,  gaslighting, abuse and violence on the negative side. Positives include transformation, personal empowerment and the exposure of secrets and lies. Much of this is, and will, continue to play out on the world stage. On a personal level one may finally overcome some personal darkness or be released from some negative influence. Ambition and motivation can be strengthened. There is definitely a theme here of ‘facing your fears and doing it anyway’. 

Jupiter is in Aries and is close to the eclipse point encouraging us to take the high road and act in good faith. Matters regarding justice and fairness come into high focus. A helpful sextile from Mars in Cancer to Uranus and Mercury in Taurus, gives us the courage to make changes that feel nurturing and self-loving. And to engage in creative problem solving. 

Do’s: Act courageously; face your fears; overcome negative patterning and habits; break free from toxic relationships and situations; challenge abuse of power.

Don'ts: Put yourself in risky situations; act impulsively without careful consideration; argue for the sake of arguing; give up on a goal due to lack of confidence; engage in aggressive or manipulative relationship dynamics. 

These energies will build to some kind of release at the Full Moon Lunar Eclipse on May 5th. These eclipse energies will remain active for up to 6 months until the next pair of eclipses.