Eclipse Magic

Eclipse Magic

April 8th will bring a total solar eclipse to a wide swath of North America. If you are unaware of that fact, perhaps you’ve been in Antartica or on a media fast. Because most of us have been inundated with information, excitement, and a little hysteria.

Of course, a total solar eclipse is dazzling and beautiful. (For details on how to watch and what to look for check out this website: Astronomy.com) But I think the eclipse holds more magic than the brilliant show in the sky. Some of that magic is about coming together in community and slowing down to tune into the wonder of this world. It is a reminder that we can always choose to cultivate those things, whether there is a celestial event happening or not.

Community

Many of us are traveling long distances to be with others in the path of totality. Friends and family are coming together with eclipse themed snacks and games. And celebrations, big and small, are happening in communities everywhere. It feels as much a celebration of community as it does the eclipse. It’s not a high priced concert or sporting event, or some type of manufactured entertainment. The eclipse provides a free event for the multitudes and a chance to engage with one another and celebrate life on our tiny planet. Hopefully, it is also a reminder that we could organize events to engage with one another even without an eclipse.

Wonder

The eclipse is a rare event. So it makes sense that it generates a lot of wonder and excitement. However, it is a curious thing that we are only dazzled by things that are rare. There are a million wonders happening constantly all around us. Seeds are sprouting and pushing up through the ground. The sun appears on the horizon each morning. Our existance here on this planet is very much a mystery. Yes – I know scientists have figured out a lot about how things work on earth, but that doesn’t make them any less amazing. And they’ve not solved the biggest mystery of how it all began.

As scientists push their knowledge farther out into space, they still have not found another planet that is habitable for humans. That alone should give us pause. Taking the time to contemplate and tune into the countless small miracles we encounter each day is a mindfulness practce.  Holding them in our awareness, we could choose to throw our arms out each morning and welome the day with wonder.

Cultivating Joy

It seems to me, that joy flows from wonder. As we tap into wonder and awe, it is hard not to have joy bubble up. The eclipse gatherings and celebrations promise to be fun and joyful. But we can also make a conscious choice to tune into the magic of living on earth at any point in time. Yes, there is much to be concerned about, and we can do the work to make the world a better place. But cultivating joy is not about ignoring challenges. Cultivating joy is a choice that allows us to be energized and better able to meet the challenges.

Enjoy the Eclipse

Here is wishing you a beautiful eclipse day with family and friends. Stay safe, connect with others, be joyful, and tap into the energy of wonder.

About this Blog Post & and Global Healing Circles

This post is part of my lunar blog series.  For the time being I’ll be posting on each new moon (not the new and full moon as I did the last few years because of some other writing projects). I’m posting this blog early because I’ll be traveling for the eclipse.  Usually, blogs will post each new moon and will be related to plants and ideas featured in my book,  Growing Mindful.  or on other topics related to mindfulness, gardens, and intentional living. For more details and a list of past lunar blog posts, click here. 

An invitation to healing circles. One of my new projects this year is partnering with other graduates of the IIQTC (Institute of Integral Qigong and Tai Chi) to offer virtual HeART of Body Compassionate Self Care Practice Circles based on qigong and tai chi. Check out the information here: Global Healing Circles or contact me if you need more information.