Meditation for the Solar Eclipse in Libra

Working with Chiastolite

As we usher in the season's second Eclipse, we may still be dealing with the fallout of the intense pull of the previous Lunar Eclipse in Pisces on the 18 of September.

Water has been abundant over much of the world, and that has, for many of us, left us feeling unanchored. Action-oriented Mars wants to push forward, making us feel like we are navigating the rapids on a flimsy raft, while Saturn sticks sharp rocks and branches to block our way as we desperately hold on for dear life.

Navigating our emotions can feel similar, and if you have had some difficult family situations marked by Mars’ stomp through Cancer, the aspects to Saturn in Pisces and Venus in Scorpio create a grand water trine that can have many of us reeling from the deep emotional swell that can occur at a regular time, let alone when the Moon is taking charge and Eclipsing the Sun.

As we navigate the Solar Eclipse, the New Moon in Libra, it's crucial to maintain a delicate balance between our rational mind and our drive to progress. This balance will guide us through the emotional challenges, providing a reassuring sense of direction and control.

When we feel battered by big emotions, we need the Libran energy, that rational mind that can mediate and work through any issue with tact and diplomacy. Now is the time for that force to take hold of highly emotional situations with a firm but gentle grasp and a beatific smile.

Chiastolite

The crystal Chiastolite is the crystal Andalusite, formed around carbon and graphite which creates a cross pattern through the middle. When the stone is sliced, this cross is revealed.

Chiastolite, a crystal-rich in aluminum, is a powerful talisman against the perils of malevolent spirits and curses. Its protective properties instill a sense of security, shielding us from lower energies and ensuring our spiritual well-being.

Many cultures use this stone as a talisman, worn or carried on one's person when travelling. It is believed to be highly protective, especially against spiritual attacks. This should be no surprise, as the high aluminum content assists with this; after all, what are people trying to do when wearing a tinfoil hat? Protect themselves from unseen psychic attacks!

This stone of equilibrium calms fears on all levels. I give it to anyone going through a rough patch, divorce, loss, or grief, and especially to those preparing to make their final life journey into the next realm of death. It is so helpful to calm the fear of darkness, leaving one's body and moving into the afterlife.

I carry a piece around in all my handbags to protect the contents and avoid the eyes of thieves. I have gifted a piece of this crystal to anyone I hold as dear to me to keep them safe from harm. Though not the prettiest crystal, it is one of my all-time favourites, and I wouldn’t be without it.

Meditation

Clear and cleanse your meditation area, making a calm, beautiful space in any way you see fit. It is Libra season after all, honour the Goddess of love and peace.

Take your cleansed piece of Chiastolite in your hands (or a picture of the stone and hold it in your mind's eye) and sit in a comfy space. Breathe with mindful ease, softly but taking notice of your breath and how you feel in your body. You are safe in this sacred space of your creation.

With your eyes open, scan your prepared area and enjoy what you see. If you are indoors, how have you arranged the furniture and items around you? Do they have any special meaning for you? If they do, linger on those happy memories or admire the beautiful artwork, flowers, or ornaments you have surrounded yourself with.

If your chosen place is outdoors, why this spot in particular? What can you see? Are there any plants or flowers that are special to you? Use this time to scan your space mindfully. It is the small details that help to create a feeling of true equilibrium.

Once you feel calm and relaxed, you can focus on yourself and the Chiastolite in your hands. Look gently at the piece and feel the weight of the crystal; it may begin to feel heavier or warmer. Is the stone already passing on any information to you?

As you settle in, close your eyes and let every breath wash over you like a gentle breeze. Feel the warmth of Venus as she glides past in her gossamer robe, gently caressing your face as she passes. You feel the love and support coming from the realm beyond the consciousness.

She leads your attention toward an Autumn sunset, dramatic in its beauty, with bright sky blues, pinks, oranges, and reds, and the Sun, a bright, golden disc gently descending in the west.

As the Sun descends, contemplate the beauty that can come from all stages of life. The Sun is in Fall in the sign of Libra, yet the intense colours that bless us at this time of year are stunning in their vibrancy. They remind us that life is beautiful at all stages, even at the end of our time on the earthly plane.

When the bottom of the Sun's disc meets the horizon, the colours intensify even as the backdrop darkens.

The sky turns indigo as the Sun slowly dips further into the underworld. Watch as the Goddess Nyx, night Herself, envelops the sky with the stars. The Orphic hymn to Nyx gives her an alternate name, Kypris, which refers to the Goddess Aphrodite, the Hellenistic Goddess of Love.

Therefore, the darkness of night is not to be feared but a time to allow ourselves to be taken into Her arms and cradled lovingly into a peaceful sleep or our lover's bed!

As you feel the gentle darkness surround you, imagine you are wrapped up warmly and feel the stone in your hand as your breath takes you back into the consciousness of your surroundings.

Open your eyes and thank your Chiastolite for keeping your mind at ease through this meditation. If you feel unduly fearful at times in the future, ask the crystal for assistance to quell those unwarranted worries and assist when there are real concerns. Maintaining equilibrium is one of the wonders of this stone.

When you are ready to leave this sacred space, take three breaths to bring you back to full consciousness, and maybe treat yourself to a nice hot drink, a well-balanced meal, time with a loved one in connection and conversation, or take a nice warm bath, something that Venus would love to do after the Sun has gone down.

If you have bought multiple stones, pop them in your bags, pockets, and home to have their energy around you as much as possible.

I wish you all a peaceful eclipse. May this lunation cycle bring you harmony in all areas of your life.

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Saffron Dennis is an astrologer, crystal therapist, horticulturalist and tarot reader based in the East Anglia region of the UK. You can book her for a reading or as a speaker at your local or online event at divinebaytree.com