Libra/Aries Harvest Full Moon

October 3, 2009: Libra/Aries Full Moon (exact at 11:10 pm PDT)

The Libra/Aries Full Moon reminds us that within relationships three participants are present–the I, the You, and the We—all with unique needs of their own. Today, we can gain additional insight into how the I and the You make the We and yet how the equation is more exponential than additive, as the relationship is its own entity, having its own personality and existence. We can see how we can contribute to it and derive so much from it, but inherently it is separate than the individuals that comprise it.

As this is the Full Moon appearing closest to the Autumnal Equinox, it is also the Harvest Moon, where Luna appears bigger and brighter than normal. It’s given this name because the extra light that it expresses provided farmers with additional time to work in their fields, gathering their precious crops. We can use the symbolism of the Moon’s radiance to help us illuminate where imbalances may exist in our relationships.

The path to these realizations and the work required to find accord may not necessarily be filled with complete poise and unfettered ease. After all, the Moon—which signifies our needs and what feels good to us–is in the sign of Aries. While Libra can express much patience, the concept of watching, planning, and waiting is relatively foreign to Aries. It wants things now, or before now. Therefore, be aware of the potential for outbursts of impatience or irritability. Yet, the influx of Aries energy isn’t necessarily negative; the Moon in this fiery sign can provide us with the spark that we need to express ourselves and get things accomplished.

This month’s Full Moon falls at 11 degrees of Libra (Sun) and Aries (Moon). While everyone experiences the energies of a Full Moon, if you have planets or pivotal points (i.e., Ascendant/Descendant or Nadir/Midheaven) around this degree in Libra, Aries, or the other cardinal signs—Capricorn and Cancer—it may impact you more intensely.

Full Moon Apothecary Suggestions

Libra is associated with the skin, lower back, and blood sugar balance while Aries is associated with the head, muscles, and circulatory system. Pay extra attention to these parts of the body and areas of health around the time of this Full Moon.

Vetiver: Vetiver essential oil helps to calm pitta, dispelling the excess Aries heat and inflammatory energy associated with this Ayurvedic dosha. In addition to its calming and grounding effects, vetiver is rejuvenating for the Libra-ruled skin. Mix a few drops with some unscented massage oil for an all-over restorative experience. Or, carry a vial of vetiver with you, inhaling its fragrance whenever you need to relax and restore your grounded focus. As with all essential oils, it’s best to purchase vetiver from a high-quality, reputable manufacturer.

Partner Yoga: One example of an exercise ritual that can be shared by two people, partner yoga is a fun and relationship-building way to stay in shape. By relying upon another person to help you achieve greater depth and grace in asanas (poses), partner yoga can help you to strengthen and fortify your body, mind, and relationship. Inquire with your local yoga studios to see if they offer partner yoga classes and/or look into the various books and DVDs available on the subject.