A Super Bright Hunter’s Moon
The first of the three Full Supermoons in the final months of 2016 will occur on October 16th under the astrological sign of Aries. The moon will reach its fullest point on Sunday at 12:23 a.m. EST, and will make its closest approach to the Earth at 7:47 p.m.
The increased size and brightness of this lunar event will give a boost to what Native Americans called the ‘Full Hunter’s Moon’. According to the Farmer’s Almanac October’s full moon earned this name because it signaled the time of year for hunters to begin accumulating provisions for the winter.
What is a Supermoon
A Supermoon occurs when the moon’s orbit brings it closer than average to the Earth. The term was coined by the astrologer Richard Nolle more than three decades ago. According to Nolle a supermoon is a new or full moon that has to come within 224,641 miles of Earth, as measured from the centers of the Earth and moon. This phenomenon makes the moon look much larger and brighter in the night sky as result of atmospheric distortion.
The magnified effect of a Supermoon is even more pronounced when it occurs at the same time as a full moon, which is already a time of heightened sensitivity. When the moon is closer to the Earth its influence on our intuitive and emotional capacity is further amplified. The October Full Supermoon will appear 14% bigger and 30% brighter than other full moons.
Planetary Effects of a Supermoon
The orbital pattern of the moon exerts a constant influence on the tidal flow of our oceans. The closer proximity of a supermoon can amplify this effect giving rise to what is called a perigean spring tide.
Those who live along an ocean coastline experience particularly high tides associated with these full moons. The combination of October’s supermoon and effects from Tropical Storm Nicole will have a larger-than-normal impact along the southeastern coast of the United States.
The lunar gravitational pull can also cause small but measurable fluctuations in the ebbs and flows of the continents, called ‘land’ or ‘solid Earth’ tides. These tides are greatest during full and new moons, when the sun and moon are aligned either on the same or opposite sides of the Earth. Solid Earth tides are also accentuated by the closer proximity of the moon.
Metaphysical Significance of a Full Supermoon
The Full Moon is a time of culmination and the promise of fulfillment of that which was started at the New Moon. It is a period of emotional sensitivity when romance, intimacy, and relationships are highlighted. Full Moons are also about illumination, endings, and the actualization of our fullest potential. A Supermoon magnifies these powerful themes.
In order to harness the full potential of this lunar event, we can ask ourselves the following questions:
What needs to be illuminated in my life in order for me to grow and evolve?
Am I manifesting my heartfelt desires and if not, how can I do so successfully?
What do I need to conclude or let go of to experience a more fulfilling life?
This illuminating moon phase will reveal to us what needs to be uncovered. What we do with that information will determine the direction of our unfolding lives.
The Supermoon Magic of Aries
The super full moon will highlight the values associated with Aries, which is a cardinal fire sign. Aries is ruled by Mars, the planet in charge of self-defense and action. Mars is the inspirational source of our warrior instinct and fuels our capacity for bravery and daring. He delivers a lively burst of bold, enthusiastic energy into our lives.
Fearless Aries activates the more action-oriented and impulsive expression of our personalities. The full supermoon in Aries will awaken the adventurous, fiery aspects of our nature. We can use the positive momentum of the sign’s physical and aggressive energy to take action and get things done.
The supermoon in Aries can also activate a feisty, argumentative aspect of our nature. We may feel the need to stick up for ourselves as we aggressively defend our feelings and ideas. Instead of directing our fiery emotions towards others, we can use this energy to clarify, heal, and align our internal value system. Once we are in full alignment within ourselves, it is much easier release toxic patterns, situations or relationships from our lives.
Since Aries is the first sign of the zodiac, he represents a natural starting point for all kinds of projects. This makes it an ideal time to channel the abundance of “me first” energy to initiate positive change and explore new directions in our lives.
Tap into Supermoon Power Now
Full Moon energy peaks on the day of the event but is potent for 2 full days before and afterwards. The period between October 14 – 18th represent the best days this month to harness the heightened energy of Aries.
If you get a chance tonight, go out and bask in the luminous light of this intensified Hunter’s SuperMoon.