This week started off with a combination solar eclipse (viewable from Antarctica, parts of South America and South Africa) as well as lunar eclipse, or as we normally call it: the New Moon. A special new moon because it marks the Lunar New Year! Lunar New Year is celebrated in many Asian cultures including China, Korea, Vietnam, Mongolia, and Tibet, as well as communities within the Philippines, Singapore, Taiwan and Malaysia.
Every Lunar Year is characterized by one of 12 zodiac animals and then assigned an element. For example, last year was the year of the Wood Snake. This energy focuses on flexibility and creativity in the face of uncertainty. This year is the year of the Fire Horse. This energy is passionate and action-driven, historically leading to massive social and political changes.
The last Fire Horse Year was 1966, think the Vietnam War escalating, Ghandi becoming Prime Minister in India, Martin Luther King Jr. launching the Chicago campaign against housing discrimination.
Regardless of how much weight you put towards astrology, the best ways to navigate these times are by staying true to our practices of grounding. As in staying present in our bodies, so that our minds don’t get swept away with the headlines. Yoga, Tai Chi, massage are all wonderful tools for this purpose.
