The astrological transit making global headlines is the upcoming solar eclipse on Apr. 8. By no coincidence, the New Moon in Aries falls on the same day, so fasten your seatbelts. It’s going to be an adventurous ride.
You may have already been feeling the energy of the eclipse season because of the lunar eclipse that took place in March during the Libra Full Moon. Communication gets wonky, many people feel under the weather, and unexpected challenges may arise. During this time, remind yourself that life is a cycle and things are up sometimes, and other times, we feel like we’re on a downward slope. Every phase of life’s cycle is necessary and essential. So, don’t resist this wave. Just ride it, learn from it, and elevate.
The new moon swoops in to give space for manifesting things in your life. Despite the eclipse season and Mercury retrograde (which began on Apr. 2 and runs until April 25), you can still set intentions to manifest things in your life.
What Is the Apr. 8, 2024, Solar Eclipse?
A solar eclipse happens when the moon completely covers the sun, casting a shadow upon Earth. This epic astrological transit will cross North America, passing over Mexico, the United States, and Canada. People across the globe are anticipating this spectacular event, and some are bracing for it. Reports indicate that states along the path of totality, or the areas that will experience the most significant periods of darkness, may experience issues with cell phones and other technology.
Areas like New York City are coordinating with other states to prepare for the massive crowds expected. This isn’t the first time. The solar eclipse that took place in 2017 also drew enormous crowds, with some regions experiencing a 100 percent increase in population in the days leading up to and during the eclipse.
What Is the Spiritual Significance of the 2024 Solar Eclipse?
TikTok is buzzing with a wide variety of viewpoints on the spiritual significance of the solar eclipse. Some warn it’s a time of historic change personally and collectively, while others advise embracing the energy and acknowledging our connection with the universe.
For centuries, Indigenous people from Latin America and the Caribbean have worked closely with the moon and the sun and prepared community rituals and celebrations around the solar eclipse. It was believed to be an optimal time for performing cleansing rituals, symbolizing renewal.
Some believe that it’s best to hold off on starting new projects or making impulsive decisions during a solar eclipse. The new moon gives you the space to manifest new things but take a pause on jumpstarting anything just yet.
How to Prepare for the 2024 Solar Eclipse
Preparing for the solar eclipse can be a spiritual ritual in itself. Maybe you’re hosting people at your home for a solar eclipse reiki healing circle or meditation. Spiritual work is excellent during this time. Give yourself permission to reflect. Since looking at the eclipse without wearing protective glasses is not advised, maybe you’d like to opt in for a solar eclipse meditation as the moon covers the sun.
Journaling during the solar eclipse is also powerful. Document this time since it won’t happen again in North America until 2033.
When Is the 2024 New Moon in Aries and Solar Eclipse?
The New Moon in Aries peaks at 2:20 p.m. ET on April 8. This dark moon isn’t usually seen in the sky, but with the solar eclipse, it will make an unforgettable appearance. It begins in Texas at approximately 1:27 p.m. CT and ends in Maine around 3:35 p.m. ET. People all across America will be able to experience the solar eclipse, but there are several states along the path of totality where the views will be epic. These states include Texas, Oklahoma, Arkansas, Missouri, Illinois, Indiana, Ohio, New York, Pennsylvania, Vermont, New Hampshire, and Maine. Part of Kentucky, Michigan, and Tennessee are also along the path of totality. These states will be in periods of darkness for nearly four and a half minutes.
What Is the Meaning of the 2024 New Moon in Aries?
Aries is the fiery start of the zodiac. It signifies the start of something new. As spring flowers begin to blossom and trees bud with new leaves, the Aries energy flows powerfully through our earth and us. This fire sign focuses on the self and discovering new things about who we are and what we are here for.
Aries also gives a powerful surge of courage and independence, so if that is something you’re lacking in your life, wish for it under this new moon. The first zodiac sign rules our warrior nature, which includes taking the lead in our lives, strength, and boldness. This is definitely not the time to shy away in the shadows. Instead, Aries inspires us to stand in the spotlight of our lives and have the courage to be authentically and unapologetically ourselves.
If the Aries fire lives within you and causes impulsive actions, impatience, or even anger, you can wish to ease this heat. Ask this new moon to help improve your patience so you are not isolating yourself from others.
The parts of the body that Aries rules include the eyes, head, face, scalp, and brain. If you suffer from headaches, dizziness, or acne, you can wish for a total restoration of health.
What Is the Spiritual-Cleansing Prayer to Say During April’s New Moon in Aries and Solar Eclipse?
Great Spirit, I ease into this new season with a hopeful heart that I may continue becoming the person I know I’m capable of being. Please guide me as I uncover my spirit’s depths and understand my purpose in this life. I pray to plant my seeds in nourishing soil so I may harvest my dreams and desires with love and integrity. Thank you for your guidance and to my ancestors who continue to lift me up when I need it most. This fire in my heart burns brightly, and I want to embrace every ember. Thank you, thank you, thank you. So, be it.
Which Tarot Goes Well With the New Moon in Aries?
The Emperor – Like Aries, the Emperor symbolizes a powerful presence of respect and authority.
Which Chakra Goes With April’s New Moon in Aries?
Solar Plexus – The third chakra is our center for self-worth and confidence, coinciding with Aries.
Spiritual-Bath Recipe for April’s New Moon in Aries
Ingredients:
Sea salt
Pink Himalayan salt
Basil, nettle, and wormwood herbs
Bloodstone, red jasper, and citrine crystals
Rose and sweet orange essential oils
Red candle
Sage and Palo Santo
Red or pink roses
Ritual:
- Due to the corresponding solar eclipse, it is highly suggested that you do spring cleaning in your home before you prepare for this ritual. Get behind things and sweep and mop your floors. Clean your windows and let the spring sunshine through. Get rid of clutter that gathered during the winter. Feel the renewed energy you’ve created by doing this.
- Now that your space has been physically cleaned, you can begin to cleanse it with sage spiritually and then Palo Santo. Remember to allow the sacred smoke to float around your space, paying close attention to the corners of your ceiling, where a lot of energy is stored over time. And don’t forget about yourself. Let that smoke float around your body from your feet to your head, and thank it for its healing properties.
- Next, fill your bathtub with warm water and add one cup of sea salt and one cup of Pink Himalayan Salt. Mix it in with your hands and think about your wishes and the intention behind your new moon bano as you do so.
- Add a few splashes of Florida Water to your bath, and thank the spiritual cologne for its healing properties.
- Then, add a few handfuls of the herbs you’re working with to your bath. Again, mix it in with your hands. Deeply inhale the fragrance and thank these earthly companions for their spiritual significance in your life.
- Add several drops of essential oils and mix them in with your hands. Sing, pray, and show gratitude.
- Grab your candle, crystals, and a vase for your flowers. Create a New Moon in Aries altar to signify the energy you are pouring into yourself during this time. Light your candle, intuitively place the crystals around it, and your vase of flowers. Close your eyes momentarily and communicate your thoughts and intentions to your altar.
- Soak in your bath for 20 to 40 minutes, taking time to become aware of your breath and inhaling the beautiful fragrance of renewal and regeneration.
Zayda Rivera is a former POPSUGAR contributor. She has been a professional writer for more than 20 years. Z is a certified Reiki Master Teacher, yoga and Zumba instructor, mindfulness and meditation guide, tarot reader, and spiritual mentor.
