Aries Full Moon

October 11, 2011: Aries Full Moon (exact at 7:06 pm PDT)

The 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.

The path to these realizations and the work required to find accord may not necessarily be filled with unfettered ease. After all, the Moon—which signifies our needs and what feels good to us–is in the sign of Aries. While Libra–where the Sun is placed–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. Remember, though, that the influx of Arian 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.

Saturn plays a strong role in this Full Moon, conjoining the Sun and opposing the Moon. Saturn is the “make-it-real” planet, the one that helps us to realize just where we may be cutting corners and/or not living up to our responsibilities. If we’re not following a path of efficiency and productivity, Saturn will likely let us know by yielding frustrations in manifested outcomes. If your efforts seem thwarted, pull back a little and look at the situation from a more detached perspective. Is there a way to shift your strategy to better honor your fundamental needs and/or those of the relationship? Would a different approach actually enhance what’s being created?

Since Saturn is focused on the material world–and the honoring of what can be seen/touched/heard–initiating your Full Moon intentions through ritual can be a wonderful way to constructively channel this planet’s energies.

Here are a few ideas to use as inspirations:

* Do a yoga practice where you dedicate your efforts to inspiring good for another person.

* Take a bath (maybe even with your partner) using salts and essential oils that you find to be inspiring.

* Create a simple art project (such as a drawing or collage) that embodies your visions for a fulfilling relationship.

* Plan and cook a meal with another, thoughtfully considering how each person’s contributions relate to and inspire the other’s.

This month’s Full Moon falls at 19 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, kidneys, 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: An 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 any classes or if any of the teachers can provide you with ideas on how to crate your own practice.