The final eclipse season of the year unfolds with a partial lunar eclipse (Candra Grahaṇam – चन्द्र ग्रहणं) on September 17th/18th, gracing us from 19:35 PM PDT (September 17) to 4:35 AM CET (September 18). This celestial event occurs in the Vedic lunar mansion of Pūrva Bhādrapadā (Pisces), known as the Burning Pair, and set to bring great spiritual growth.

The Energy of Pūrva Bhādrapadā: Metamorphosis and Rebirth

Pūrva Bhādrapadā embodies the essence of transformation, rebirth, and spiritual discipline. Represented by the unrefined fire energy that can elevate our consciousness, this transit requires careful attention and full commitment to our personal goals. Eclipses create a unique space outside of time, offering potent moments for accelerated spiritual growth.

Lunar eclipses serve as doorways into deeper self-awareness, illuminating aspects that are ready for healing. As the veil between the visible and hidden drops, energies that have been concealed come to the surface. This eclipse offers an instant reveal, while the upcoming solar eclipse on October 2nd will resonate for months to come, weaving the energetic tapestry that will color the flavor of the next six months of our journey.

© Pūrva Bhādrapadā, Chaya Collective

The Mechanics of a Lunar Eclipse: Light Meets Shadow

A lunar eclipse occurs when the Earth aligns precisely between the Sun and Moon, casting its shadow upon the lunar surface. This alignment creates a profound cosmic shift, reflecting the dance between light and darkness in our lives. Eclipses typically occur in pairs or triples each year, as the Moon’s orbit crosses the ecliptic plane twice annually.

The lunar nodes, Rāhu and Ketu in Vedic Astrology, govern these eclipses. Known as the ‘great awakeners,’ these shadowy grahas symbolize the interplay between light and shadow. During an eclipse, we are invited to confront our shadows, disrupt old patterns, and awaken to deeper truths.

Embracing the Eclipse: Practices and Reflections

During the eclipse, take time to slow down, reflect, and observe your inner world. Ancient traditions suggest diving into your spiritual growth by fasting during the eclipse window (September 17, 17:41–21:47 PM PDT) and bathing in saltwater or the ocean to neutralize energies.

This is a powerful period for personal sādhana (practice). Engaging in mantra recitation, meditation, breathwork, and kriya can enhance spiritual potency. I will personally be integrating a simple āsana practice with bhrāmarī prāṇāyāma (bumblebee breath), followed by meditation and mantra practices.

Symbolism and Insight for Spiritual Growth: Aja Ekapāda

Pūrva Bhādrapadā is symbolized by a male lion, sword, and a two-faced figure representing duality and transformation. The deity associated with this nakṣatra is Aja Ekapāda, one of the Rudras, embodying balance and stability amidst chaos. Aja Ekapāda, translating to “one-footed,” symbolizes the grounded foundation needed to remain centered during life’s upheavals.

Harnessing the Power of Sacrifice: Yajamana Udyamana Śakti

The energy of this eclipse encourages elevation through sacrifice—offering one’s resources or self in the fire of spiritual practice. This process of alchemical transformation arises from balancing dualities and channeling focus into goals that foster inner growth. It also teaches the value of contentment with what one already possesses.

Practical Advice for Navigating the Eclipse 

If you’re experiencing a dasha (cycle) or sub-period of Rāhu, or if you have planets in Pūrva Bhādrapadā (Pisces), especially your Moon or rising sign, pay special attention during this time (schedule a reading with me to understand your Vedic placements and what they mean). Expect heightened emotions and revelations of hidden truths. Practice self-kindness and patience with others, and use this period to reassess habits, patterns, and health routines. 

Stay rested and keep life simple. This is a perfect time to release outdated patterns. Delay travel and public engagements on the day if possible. Postpone major decisions for about a week to allow energies to settle and integrate.

Embrace the Journey

Pūrva Bhādrapadā bridges heaven and earth, offering the energy to draw down divine power for spiritual growth through tapasya. As this energy rises, it melts the hidden moon in our mind, bringing clarity and blessings. Embrace this time for metamorphosis and spiritual awakening.

For personalized guidance on navigating these celestial waters, visit Bookings: Vedic Astrology Consultations to book a Jyotish reading.

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“The only way to make sense out of change is to plunge into it, move with it, and join the dance.” — Alan Watts