eclipse season – The Cauldron Goddess

Betwixt & Between: The Power of Liminality

As we navigate Pisces season and Eclipse season this March, we swim in a realm of deep liminality and transition.

Pisces invites us into the universal, cosmic ocean of life, the sacred source of being, our non-material existence. This is a very counter-cultural, mystical place to reside, one that honours spirit, mystery and magic and asks that we expand our perception beyond the material and logical.

As someone who appreciates both science and spirituality, I know that science becomes mysticism if you go far enough. Matter is mostly empty space, even if we perceive it to be solid. The more you learn about the material world, the more you realise is still unknown. The seemingly solid structures our society is built on become blurry and dissolve into meaninglessness if we rely too heavily on them. Mystery is the true underpinning beneath our feet if we dare look beyond the forms it manifests through.

Life holds many mysteries that cannot be explained, that cannot be pinned down or quantified. It is meant to be this way. Otherwise, what would be the point of being here? Mystery gives life meaning and allows us to learn and grow.

Our Spirit self dwells in Mystery, and it is during times of liminality that we can most easily touch this magic and let it rekindle our memory of our spiritual home and self.

What is Liminality?

Liminality is the in-between place- not completely in one realm or another. It is also the in-between time- when we are no longer who we once were or who we are becoming.

Accessing liminality is part of almost every spiritual practice. It is sought after for growth, transformation and renewal.

Experiencing liminality may be pleasant or unpleasant, or both. Its doorways often take us both into illumination, enlightenment, as well as shadow and darkness. These are ultimately part of the same continuum, as one is necessary to experience the other. This is why folks doing their spiritual work will often know both their light and darkness intimately.

Liminal Places & Spaces

Bryn Celli Ddu- Sacred Burial Chamber in Anglesey, Wales.

Liminal places are sacred spaces we seek to connect with the divine or have a transformational experience. They are often removed from typical everyday activities and may be constructed purposefully to be aligned with constellations, ley lines, or sacred geometry. However, they may simply be where they are out of necessity or natural formation. Some liminal places are:

Temples, churches, sanctuaries
Tree groves
Watery shores
Stone circles
Cairns/burial chambers
Crossroads
Caves
Hilltops
Lakes

Liminal places don’t necessarily have to be a place with historical spiritual relevance. They can be stumbled upon in various forests and landscapes, easing our access to the Spirit world. One doesn’t need to be in a liminal place to access a liminal space within, however.

We can find ourselves in a liminal space internally, no matter where we physically dwell.

Liminal spaces where we may dwell in consciousness:

Transitory moments between sleep and wakefulness
Journeys to the otherworld, or spirit world through trance, shamanic journeying or plant medicine.
Union with the divine through meditation, movement, chanting or other forms.
Channeling and expressing intuitive downloads, psychic messages or impressions in its various forms.
Being in ‘the flow’ creatively- when you are channeling and manifesting visions in the material world, for example through all forms of art.
Trance states that arise through doing a repetitive task or through repetitive rhythms.

In these spaces, we are neither fully in our ‘mundane’ consciousness, nor immersed in the spirit world or dream space, but in-between, so we can channel these energies and insights into our lives.

Then there are liminal times. Liminal times are when we are amidst changes and they can often come with feelings of uncertainty and fearing the unknown. During liminal times our well-worn path and routine disappears, and we are faced with new territory. We are forced out of our comfort zone and must change to adapt to the situation. Often during these periods we are leaving behind an old self and embracing a new version of ourselves.

We are collectively in a liminal time. This whole year of 2025 is quite transitional, which is why collective anxiety it quite high these days. If you’re a sensitive like myself feeling this, you’re not alone. Keep your spiritual & grounding practices strong, my friends! This is a collective gateway, and it too shall pass.

A large portion of the planets are huddled together in Pisces right now, the final sign before rebirth into Aries. We are all on an individual, social and spiritual level shedding some old skins and making space for a new chapter.

We will move into a new skin that fits us better. As we near Aries, there is a call for us to reclaim our power, be brave and create a new path forward. For now, we embrace the in-between.

Liminal times in life:

Physical transitions such as puberty, pregnancy, parenting, menopause, aging, recovery and healing from illness, identity shifts.
Emotional transitions such as death of a loved one, retirement, moving to an unknown place, child leaving home, relationship changes (marriage/breakups/divorce), family changes, trauma healing, identity shifts.
Less dramatic versions of the above such as starting a new job or school program, a local move, changes in appearance, unforeseen circumstances, changing plans, a new pet- Anything that forces us to pause, takes us off the usual path, or opens us up to lasting inner and/or outer changes.
Dusk & dawn- Sacred gateways we are offered each day to tune into deeper, unseen realms
Major planetary changes and transits- This year a lot of the planets are ending cycles in signs and beginning in new ones, putting us all in a collective transition.
Eclipses- New and full moons that carry extra weight and often coincide with fated, lasting changes and events.
Seasonal transitions such as Equinoxes & Solstices- These cardinal points carry the energies of endings and new beginnings that last approximately 3 months each.

Eclipses are Liminal Gateways to Growth

In the Red Spring Garden in Glastonbury, UK

Eclipse season, which is approximately the month containing both the solar and lunar eclipses is also considered a liminal time. Eclipse season’s purpose is to help us grow by clearing the old and offering us new perspectives and ways of doing things.

The whole month of March is eclipse season this year and is a continuation of a story that began in September 2024, dealing with themes of spirituality, mind-body health, healing, work-life balance, sensitivity, forgiveness, releasing the past, and getting clearer on where we put our faith and how we ground our beliefs into our everyday lives.

Eclipses last in the same signs for about 18 months, so we are still at the beginning of this chapter. Each eclipse season offers us a doorway into a mystical realm of inspiration, liberation from outworn stories, and opportunities to align more strongly with our spiritual purpose and inner light. (For eclipse season tips, you may wish to read my blog post from September about Grounding Through Eclipses and Times of Chaos. )

Liminality is a Great Spiritual Teacher

Most spiritual paths involve some practices that embrace being in a liminal state of consciousness. But why? What does liminality offer us? Mainly, a change in perspective.

Liminality helps us see the big picture– Our human dramas become much smaller when we step outside of them and recognize that we are part of a much bigger picture. We are drops in the ocean of life. We are all connected in a sacred dance and flow. We are part of something much greater and more powerful than we realize, and we are always connected to this divine power, in every moment.

We can see new pathways and opportunities that we couldn’t before– We can easily get stuck on autopilot- forgetting that other possibilities exist for us than the ones right in front of us or what we are used to doing. Liminal times and spaces allow us to imagine more for ourselves and see new pathways that were previously hidden from our view.

We can access new aspects of ourselves- Aspects of ourselves may be inaccessible when clinging to our same routines for too long. For instance, maybe we used to be more creative, but family duties have been prioritized for so long that this part ourselves has been undernourished. Liminal spaces help us reconnect to this part of ourselves and pave the way for new routines that can integrate this.

Ego power fades, spiritual power expands- Accessing liminal consciousness often involves leaving our ego at the door. I don’t mean just our inner pride or vanity, but also our very sense of self or individuality, which can be quite jarring at times. These experiences can bring us much closer to our true power- our spirit- which is connected to all life. This communion with spirit aligns us with our wholeness, while also clarifying our individual path and purpose. *Please keep in mind that the above applies to entering liminal consciousness in situations that are not dangerous to your mental or physical health. I don’t encourage trying to ‘lose yourself’ in harmful ways.

Greater presence in the moment– Liminality alters our sense of time and space, so we are less focused on the past or future. We are more present to the now. Not just its physical energy, but its inherent spiritual energy. This is in large part what is responsible for all the expanded consciousness and access to new opportunities, pathways and parts of ourselves. The more fully present to the moment we are, the more life becomes available to us.

As our consciousness expands, old identities, stories and energy drains fade and dissolve.

We reconnect with lost parts, soul pieces, and re-member ourselves whole. Greater peace, presence, strength, confidence and inner light grow!

However, in order to access the power of liminality, we must embrace the unknown.

It is perfectly normal to fear the unknown. But I always remind myself that Fear=False Evidence Appearing Real. The unknown is abundant and fertile soil rich with possibility and new life we simply have yet to imagine!

How to work with liminality and embrace it in our life:

Liminal times and places should be handled with care and reverence. It is a time to be sensitive and kind to yourself, and create a sacred container around your experience.

You can facilitate access to spiritual guidance by doing simple practices that can ease you into a more liminal state. Once your mind is calm and you are feeling comfortable and open to intuitive guidance, you may wish to commune with your higher self, spirit or source, ask a question you’ve been struggling with, and listen for an intuitive message.

Simple practices to facilitate entering a liminal state of mind:

Breathing Practice: There is a sacred space of liminality between each inhale and exhale- and each exhale and inhale. Sit comfortably, take a few breaths to simply relax. When you are ready, inhale for 4 counts, then hold the breath for 4 counts. Then exhale for 4 counts and pause with empty lungs for 4 counts. Repeat as often as needed until you feel relaxed in those in-between pauses between inhales and exhales.

Trance Music: Put on some music that has a repetitive beat. It could be fast or slow, which ever helps you in that moment to become calm and open. Begin to move in a repetitive manner. It could be a shifting of your weight side to side while standing or sitting, rocking, or it could be a repeated movement of any kind that is simple and comfortable to keep doing. Let yourself surrender to the rhythms and let your imagination flow. Don’t censor anything, think or analyze what you are doing. Just allow yourself to flow with the rhythm, merging your movement with the music. Allow feelings and visions to emerge from this experience.

Water, Earth & Sky: Sit near a large body of water outdoors, or if this isn’t available, you can do this indoors, listening to ocean wave sounds and looking at a photo of a shore. Sit (or imagine you are sitting) at the water’s edge. Notice the connection between the earth, the water and the sky. Let the sound of the waves put you in a relaxed state. Notice how the sound of your breath is just like the waves. Feel the waves flowing through your heart. Notice how your body and the earth are connected, grounded, heavy. Notice how the sky is open, expansive and free, like your mind. Breathe the sky into your mind. Breathe the peace of the waves into your heart, and then breathe the earth’s strength into your body. Feel how you are one with earth, water and sky. Feel your connection to all life.

Other ways to enter a liminal state could be: Yoga, dance, walking in nature, rhythmic drumming or listening to a shamanic drumming track, sitting with a tree, coloring in a coloring book, chanting, meditating, mindfulness exercises, staring at a candle flame, taking a bath, or any other activity that helps turn off your day-to-day thinking and enter an open and relaxed state of being.

During this Pisces and Eclipse season, take some time to slow down- don’t over-schedule yourself. Give yourself the opportunity to relax, rest more and have the ability to enter liminal space. Pay attention to your night dreams and allow some time to simply day dream too!

What helps you enter a liminal state of mind?

Tips for Navigating Liminal Times:

Give yourself some space and grace– Leave space in your schedule and give yourself extra time to rest, process and recuperate. Don’t pressure yourself to achieve or perform at ideal or ‘normal’ levels. Be kind and gentle with yourself, you are processing more energy and information than usual. Say no to extra duties, efforts or activities and let go of perfectionism.
Meet liminality like an old friend– Let it be a remembering and returning home to your true nature- wise, adaptable, expansive and light.
Embrace any discomfort as expansion- And a deepening of your capacity for light and life force energy. Like a deep stretch that feels uncomfortable now, but will feel amazing later. Change is an invitation to expand, create and start anew.
You are a co-creator of the universe: Hold the Unknown as abundant potential, awaiting your creative input and manifestation.
Grounding is important! Embracing liminality means we allow for change without losing our grip on reality. Reach out to friends, healers, professionals and helpers if you need help. Nature is a natural grounding, calming force for our body, energy and nervous system. You can read my blog about Grounding During Eclipses and Times of Chaos. Or, you can practice my Grounding Tree Meditation.

Remember you are never alone. There are others just like you, feeling just like you right now. There are healing allies, support around you, ready to help, and are likely also helping already behind the scenes.

If you would like some support in connecting with your spirit helpers and healing allies, as well as energetic cleansing and protection skills, you may be interested in my Nourish Your Spirit Program.

Flowing with you through these transformational times,

Serena

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Staying Grounded Through Eclipses & Times of Chaos

There are times in life when our feet barely touch the earth. Where we just don’t feel centered or like ourselves. Our consciousness may be immersed in the future or past, or so preoccupied with a situation or person that we can’t see the forest for the trees. We may feel unsettled, anxious, spacey, depressed or simply outside of our body and the present moment.

These challenging feelings can come with any big transition, change, chronic stress or traumatic event.

These feelings are common during Eclipse Season- the duration of approximately one month that spans the Solar and Lunar Eclipse cycle. Its energies reverberate through the next six months, as we integrate and embody its lessons. If you are a highly sensitive person, then you may feel eclipse seasons with greater intensity as you are attuned to the collective emotions as well as your own, which can be triggered at this time.

We are still in eclipse season now, as we are experiencing a Solar Eclipse in Libra, after the Lunar Eclipse in Pisces a couple weeks ago. This eclipse is about reclaiming our inner sovereignty and creating a healthier balance in our life. Themes of give and take, relating, justice, peace and harmony reign.

We may notice how people-pleasing or giving our power away to others no longer serves us. How trusting ourselves and caring for our own needs first is necessary if we are to dance in harmony with another in a healthy way. It is a great time to ground into what brings us true peace and inner strength. It is an opportunity to take our energy back, patch up leaks and drains, and move forward in a more sustainable way.

Eclipses are not to be feared, but to be respected. They are a great time for inner work, healing and transformation. They are not a time to assume the smooth hum of everyday life will be our status quo. Eclipses aren’t ‘bad’, but they are chaotic and can be stressful, because they are meant to unsettle us. This is to help us evolve, heal and grow. They bring an opportunity for us to walk into the future in a new, more liberated way. Eclipses gift us with new perspective, inner awareness and alignment with who we currently are and where we need to go.

But these gifts don’t necessarily come easily. Oftentimes, eclipse season brings unexpected things out of the blue. Things that were hidden from us come into the light, while the full truth of a situation may still be obscured. Old wounds and deeper issues get triggered by a conversation, an unexpected event or reminder of the past.

Doors may suddenly close, while unexpected windows open. Endings and beginnings take place. This process can take the few weeks surrounding the eclipses. It can be confusing, like a fog has set in around us. Once it clears, reality looks different.

Eclipses require extra space and time to process- as we are processing much more information, emotions, memories, feelings than normal through our body, mind and heart.

If we choose to pay attention to the deeper energies at work, we may notice how they are teaching us how to navigate uncertainty and strengthen our intuitive muscles. Like driving through fog, we need to slow down, get present, and begin using some of our under-used resources.

Navigating uncertainty is one of my least favourite things to do, so that must be why I find myself doing it a lot. It’s a life lesson I can’t seem to run away from. I have anxiety and there are times it gets the better of me, this eclipse season being no exception. I feel the collective anxiety is very high right now.

So, I thought today I’d share a few simple things that helped me manage anxiety and stay grounded through this eclipse season, so we can experience not only its challenges but its gifts!

Faith: The Calm Eye in the Middle of the Storm

Times of change can put our spiritual practice and faith to the test.

In this soup of collective fear and anxiety, it can be hard to hear the loving voice of our inner wisdom speaking. It is easy to get caught up in the flurries of fear and the many distractions thrown at us.

But our Spirit is bright, calm and clear, all the time. We can tap into this light any time we need a reminder of who we really are, like the calm eye in the middle of the storm. Our Spirit can see how this moment is an important part of our whole journey, in ways we could never see.

There is a call to have faith in the process here, to be willing to trust the unseen forces- our spirit guides, deity, our higher self, ancestors, etc. and trust they have our back! When life looks like a mess of obstacles, mistakes, fears and challenges to us, Spirit sees a sparkling pathway we cannot see, one made just for us to collect the gifts and experiences we need to move forward on our path in a better, stronger way. We are loved and cared for, always, especially during our darkest times.

It can be hard to have faith, especially when there is so much suffering. But faith in something is what helps us put one foot in front of the other. It keeps us grounded. Faith doesn’t need to be blind, conventional, nor unwavering. It only needs to feel true to you, a beacon of light in the darkness, something that fuels hope and peace for you in this moment.

Whether you access your faith through prayer, joining with others in spiritual community, sitting at your altar or going for a walk in the woods- The important thing is that you connect with Spirit regularly to strengthen your bond.

What strengthens your Spirit? How does your faith support you in challenging times? What is one way you can tap into your faith right now? How can you grow your faith each day?

Grounding: Trees, Water, Food and Plant Medicines for Support

For those of us on the earth-based path, grounding is not only steadying for our body and mind, but an essential part of our spiritual practice. Earth and Spirit are on the same continuum.

A tree is not just a tree but a wise elder with deep roots here that can help guide and strengthen us when we feel lost.

Walking in nature and connecting with the Tree Beings can be very helpful for anxiety.

Each Tree has its own special medicine and personality. I highly recommend getting to know the Tree Beings around you and find even just one to visit on a regular basis to lean up against, relax with, and listen to for its advice. Ask if they are interested in starting a new friendship, and give an offering of appreciation, such as cleaning up any garbage, giving it water, or putting down herbs or animal safe food at its roots.

Once you establish a connection with your Tree, just be present and receptive to them. Get a sense of their energy. Feel free to ask them a question about your life or situation.

The Oak trees have been giving me very specific advice about my health and my movement practice. They also encourage me to strengthen some boundaries and be more ruthless in keeping my mind out of harmful thought patterns.

The Willows I visited have been helpful in softening areas of tension in my body and energy field. They encouraged me to breathe and release trapped emotions, as well as reminded me to be much kinder to myself.

A nearby Spruce helped me understand how my energy was influenced by the collective energy and gave me information about timelines, cycles and protection.

Is there a Tree you’d like to connect with in your area?

Another grounding activity I love is sitting on the beach. Being where land, water and sky connect is a sacred place of liminality. It helps us connect with the divine and the earth in balance. I often get my most powerful healing messages when sitting by water.

Wading in Lake Ontario, I let the waves gently cleanse away old ways of being that are no longer serving me. The waves remind me that this is simply part of a cycle and ‘this too shall pass.’

When at the beach, I hold the local rocks in my hands and place them on my body where I needed grounding. When I do this, I feel immediately safe. I have a few at home to do this anytime I need.

Grounding foods are another great way to stay rooted through chaotic times.

Drinking tea made of roots such as ginger and turmeric, and warm spices ease digestion and help us stay rooted.

Eating root vegetables, hearty grains, nuts and seeds can be helpful. if you eat meat, then increasing your intake of unprocessed, lean meat can be very grounding and restorative.

Adaptogens such as Reishi mushroom and Holy Basil have been helpful at keeping me in balance during stressful times.

Getting enough rest is paramount. If you have insomnia, or have trouble sleeping during eclipses like I do, there are many things you can do. In general, activities that relax you before bed such a yoga or meditation, exercising earlier during the day, and avoiding screens before bed may help. Sleep inducing herbs and teas may also help. Weighted blankets, blackout curtains, eye pillows can also help. Everyone is different however with sleep needs.

What activities or foods ground you? Do you have a special place in nature you can go to feel safe and supported? Are you getting enough rest and sleep?

Being Present: Right Now is the Only Thing That Exists

We live in a very distracting world. Our senses are constantly bombarded with stimuli, especially here in Toronto, and it can be very overwhelming to our system on every level.

But even aside from noise, traffic, people, screens, computers and phones, we can distract ourselves with work, relationships, addictions, or constant ruminating and destructive thoughts about the past or future.

The less things we are doing at once, the more we can be present and access the steady, eternal calm beneath the moment. Like the ‘eye in the middle of the storm’ I mentioned. No matter what is happening externally- in the environment, in our emotional body or our mind, there is a still lake of deep peace and eternal serenity we can attune to.

Meditation has been around for thousands of years for a reason. Most of our stress originates in our minds. The mind itself is but a movie screen of our thoughts, not a true reflection of reality. Learning to watch our thoughts come and go, and attuning to the eternal oneness that is underneath it all can be a powerful grounding and centering practice.

Mindful Breathing is another great way to get present. When feeling anxious, inhale for 4 counts, pause with full lungs for 4 counts, then exhale for 4 counts. Repeat a few times, gradually extending the length of the exhale so that it is longer than your inhale. This helps to engage the parasympathetic nervous system to calm your nerves.

For some folks, becoming still, focusing on the breath or noticing thoughts can be an overwhelming, anxiety-inducing activity. In this case, staying engaged in a daily task or physical movement is a more accessible way to be present.

Focusing on physical tasks in daily life– such as cleaning, vacuuming, preparing food, cuddling pets or brushing their fur, folding laundry or exercising can become sacred rituals to help us focus on the here and now, on what is in front of us. This can help pull us out of the projections of our mind into the future and the past and remind us of the peace inherent in our everyday existence.

Naming 3 things you see, smell, hear, or feel is another great way to ground into the moment, and helps a panic or anxiety attack. This can be practiced daily. For instance, on your break at work, you can just take a moment to notice and name 3 sensations you feel- ie) The cool breeze on your cheek, your shirt caressing your lower back, tension in your shoulders. Then notice how that changed your demeanor. You can add complexity to it as well, such as ‘name 3 things you can see that are red’. This helps you to bring your awareness back into the reality in front of you, rather than the mind’s projected fears.

Mindful eating can help you stay in the moment. Instead of eating while talking to others, listening to a podcast or thinking about your to-do list, try immersing your attention on the act of chewing the food, the sensations in your mouth and body, the full experience of the act of eating.

What activities help ground you into the present moment? What thoughts or distractions pull you out of it? What is one way you could become more present to this moment right now?

Sharing and Connecting: We are never alone

My husband and I on the Friends set reproduction a couple years ago

As someone conditioned to be low-maintenance and highly attuned to others, it can be hard for me to open about my struggles and reach out for support. I tend to reserve my venting and vulnerability for my partner or professional healers. I always find though, that whatever I am struggling with, there are always others going through the same thing. Often it is part of a larger, collective struggle as well. We are all connected and we experience things like eclipses altogether. Many of us are likely experiencing the same themes and feelings in our lives, just in slightly different situations.

Every time I hold my circles and we share what’s been going on for us, we discover that others in the room are feeling the same. We all learn from each other and support each other.

Guaranteed, you are not alone in whatever you are going through right now. If you have even just one person in your life that you trust, that is a willing, caring listener, connect with them and share.

One thing I am slowly learning is that sharing our struggles with others doesn’t necessarily mean we are burdening them. When we share our problems with others, it can also heal them too, as they may have felt the same in the past or right now in the present, too.

Now, this isn’t to say that you should use your friends or loved ones as a dumping ground or get in the habit of sharing and not return the favor of listening. If you are someone always on the listening end, maybe try sharing. If you are someone always on the sharing end, maybe ask how others are feeling and listen.

If you don’t have any humans right now in your life that you feel comfortable connecting with, what about a pet? A spirit helper, tree, plant, or body of water? Are there any folks you follow on social media who inspire you or share your struggle? Any communities or support groups you feel drawn to connecting with online or in-person?

I often like to speak with my ancestors and spirit guides as well. They are always listening and happy when we connect! Even writing in my journal is a therapeutic form of expression when I don’t feel I can talk to anyone.

Who in your life do you feel comfortable sharing your feelings with? What communities, friends, family or professionals do you have in your life to inspire or support you? How do you support others? Is there a balance?

Play: Leisure, fun and play are essential aspects of life

My lovely friend Jazzie and I playing with veils

Last but not least, during heavy or transformational times, we need to remember how to play. This may look like trying out a new exciting recipe for dinner, playing a game with your child or pet, playing a board game or card game with a friend, creating art just for fun, coloring, exploring a new part of your neighborhood, traveling, watching a movie or dancing to one of your favorite songs. Whatever gets you out of your funk and reminds you what it feels like to have fun again!

What do you do for fun? What would happen if you did that a little more often? Is there something new you’d love to try?

I hope that you are navigating this eclipse fog with some support. We are getting through this together, and flowing forward into a more liberated and aligned future. Remember that you are not alone and the Earth Mother holds you, always. May we come out the other side empowered and renewed!

If you would like some guidance or support, such as a Tarot Reading, Spiritual Coaching or Earth-Based Healing, please check out my services which are offered online and in-person.

Sending love and stability for these chaotic times,

Serena

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The Cauldron Times- Navigating Eclipses & Transitions

It’s Eclipse Season again, which is what I lovingly call a collective ‘Cauldron Time’, which is a time of transformation that impacts us deeply and can alter the course of our lives.

Spanning from the Spring Equinox until about the end of April 2024, we are in one of these times. We had a Lunar Eclipse on March 25th, we have a Solar Eclipse on April 8th and we also have Mercury retrograding from April 1st-24th. This period emphasizes the need for flexibility and inner reflection as things shift and change to bring us onto a path more aligned with who we truly are.

The Cauldron is a symbol prominent in Celtic Myth that represents transformation and rebirth. I think of ‘Cauldron Times’ as those times in life where we are neither ‘here’ anymore, nor ‘there’ yet. We are stewing and brewing in the Great Mother’s cauldron, surrendering to her plan for us, as she seeks to helps us grow into our full potential.

We can think of a Cauldron Time as a spiritual gateway, a metaphorical cocoon, a mysterious twilight, a period of being betwixt and between while we await a transformation to complete.

Cauldron times can range from uncomfortable to very challenging or even traumatic. Some examples of natural transitions I would consider to be Cauldron Times are puberty, pregnancy, becoming a parent, midlife, perimenopause/menopause, illness/healing and dying. Other common ones are marriage & divorce, moving, ending/starting a career path, business or relationship. There are many more.

Cauldron Times are anytime we are no longer who we once were and not yet who we will be. This is, in a way, the human condition itself, as we are always evolving and changing! But the Cauldron Times are characterized by a more intense period of struggle with our sense of self, identity, and feel a clear ‘before’ and ‘after’ version of who we are and our life path.

Often after a Cauldron Time we find there is no going back to who we once were. They commit us to a new level in our evolution and growth.

The Cauldron Time transforms us thoroughly enough to mark us. Sometimes we may not even be aware of how deeply an experience etched itself on our souls until many years later. Sometimes what seemed like a regular job, or relationship at the beginning turned out to be life changing, altering our sense of self or path forever.

A Cauldron Time can last days, weeks, months or years, depending on what type it is. It may begin and end abruptly, or be much more gradual.

Surrender

Many Cauldron Time experiences leave us with little to no control. Things are breaking down, dissolving or falling away in order to make way for something new. This is often painful. In most cases we must surrender and accept the change taking place and find ways to cope and evolve through it. There may be adjustments to make, new things to learn, and inner healing required to move through it. Denying or resisting this kind of change or controlling its trajectory is often futile.

We are conditioned in school to believe that if you have good intentions and work really hard, you can achieve your goals. That if you behave and follow the rules, you’ll receive rewards. That you control your destiny. That life moves in a straight line of logical decisions and accomplishments.

But as we grow up, we find out the real world isn’t like that. Bad things happen to good people. There are folks who treat their bodies terribly who live into their 90s and young healthy athletes who die of cancer. There are kind loving couples who struggle to have a child, and abusive people who have lots of children. A global pandemic can hit anytime. You can lose everything through no fault of your own. Life isn’t fair or logical. It can be painful, nonsensical, chaotic. We are most definitely not always in the driver’s seat.

Fate can swoop in when it feels like it to wash away all your efforts. It can come out of left field and drop you on a completely different course. Oftentimes these changes teach us important lessons. Maturity comes with an awareness and respect for the larger forces at work in the universe beyond our individual human self. It comes with humility and learning how to accept, adapt, and do our best with the cards we’re given. It doesn’t mean we give up on life completely, or let go of personal responsibility. But acknowledging that devastating loss, hardship, betrayal and pain is an essential part of our evolution can help us accept, learn, and become more empathetic people.

To me, surrender is the art of learning the limits of our manifesting ability and trusting the divine to bring us where we need to be, to learn the lessons and have the experiences our soul needs.

Sometimes we need to trust divine timing and the flow of life. This is one of the biggest lessons of a Cauldron Time. In letting go of our usual habits, expectations and assumed reality, we can grow into a more expansive, strong, wise, compassionate version of ourselves.

Eclipses

Eclipses are times where the hands of fate often move us off one course and onto another. It is believed that they bring us back onto our path if we’ve strayed. It depends, of course on how the eclipse hits our unique astrological chart. Some will affect us greatly, and others we may barely notice. Not every eclipse will feel like a Cauldron Time for us, but it may for someone else.

Eclipses often conceal the fullness of a situation but also reveal something we were unaware of. Previously concealed information, news and proclamations from others may come out of the blue. While new information may come to light, the full situation may not yet be fully clear, so it can be good to move cautiously rather than react impulsively.

Eclipses are super-charged full and new moons. Emotions are high, and everyone feels a bit more on edge. Our sense of time may alter as well, as it can feel like more time has passed than actually has, because things change more intensely in a short period.

Emotional triggers often happen around eclipses, which can reveal to us how we really feel about something or someone, or how someone really feels about us. This may change our relationship with the person permanently, for better or worse. Eclipses are very much about shadow work. They reveal what’s been in shadow and what is beneath the surface. They ask that we deal with these truths.

Eclipses help enhance our self-awareness and align us with our true self and support our growth and evolution. There is no predicting exactly how we will experience an Eclipse. But it is said that whatever transpires during an eclipse was meant to be, and it is putting us on path. It is also considered a time where we don’t need to make things happen, because life is trying to get us to flow in a particular direction, so the more flexible we are, the better.

During this time of transition, having some guidance can help.

I believe we are meant to trust our wisest selves, and not just blindly listen to the advice of others. So, keep in mind, while I will offer some advice based on my own experience, please just do you, experiment and follow what you feel works for you!

Here’s my little advice list for dealing with Eclipses:

Remember that some eclipses will affect you more deeply, and others may feel mild. It may not really be a Cauldron Time for you, but it may be for someone you know. You can be empathetic and supportive to them in that case. Also, the collective will likely be impacted, and so we are too, as we are all connected.

Leave space in your schedule for the unexpected and for processing your feelings. If you overschedule yourself, you may get stressed out, reactive or say things you regret later, because emotions tend to run high. You may also find things just don’t pan out how you hoped. Take it as an invitation to slow down, do a bit less and draw your attention inward.

It’s not the best time to schedule important gatherings, social events, or project launches you want to go smoothly. Eclipse energy can be chaotic, unpredictable or have unintended consequences. A launch or gathering is easier to handle once eclipse season is over, when the energies are more stable. Permission to stay home and be a hermit! However, if you do have something planned you cannot change or you feel strongly about the timing, it may be an experience you need, or part of your growth journey. It also really depends on the type of gathering, and the eclipse energies. As a highly sensitive introvert, I usually avoid large gatherings at this time (and most of the time, lol).

Stay grounded yet flexible. Eclipses have a way of uprooting us or making us feel a bit nervous or edgy. Keep your daily routines- regular mealtimes, meditation, exercise, spiritual practice, etc. going at a steady rhythm to keep your grounded and centered. Along with this, just be open to new ways of seeing and doing things. Be like a Willow tree- rooted yet soft.

Take a break from manifesting. Often folks wonder if they should do manifestation spells and rituals under an eclipse. I personally don’t because I find the energy is too intense and chaotic. Things are breaking down and shifting. The soil is being cleared and turned. The weather is stormy. If you plant seeds, they may take if you’re lucky, but why not wait until conditions are favorable? The conditions are favorable for inner work, however. Connecting with our own emotions, shadow work, healing and transformation are what eclipses encourage. I apply this for both the solar and lunar eclipse, and the whole eclipse season. Again, feel free to experiment for yourself.

It’s a great time for grounding and processing rituals, such as journaling, reflection, a craft, yoga, movement, nature walks, Tarot, anything that helps you be present with yourself and how you feel, and anything that encourages self-awareness or healing is wonderful. It’s also ok to do nothing in particular and just go with the flow!

It is a great time to get support- from a healer, therapist, or a friend to help you navigate your feelings and thoughts. You don’t have to completely hole up and avoid life during eclipses. Healing, support and care are available. I do tend to be a Hermit during Eclipse season, with the exception of my work and things that serve my wellbeing.

Any of the above list can apply to another Cauldron Time you may be experiencing. Be kind to yourself. Be patient with the process. It’s ok to be a work in progress. It’s ok to be neither here nor there, betwixt and between!

Being in Transition is Counter-Cultural

I think one of the hardest things about being in a state of transition or change is that it is frowned upon by our dominant culture. Our mechanized world loves clear definition, boxes and hitting goals.

What if our goals change? What if we aren’t who we thought we were? What if we have a goal, but it’s a winding road there, and the messy, ugly in-between part lasts a long time?

You are allowed to be a mess. For life to be a mess. To not know the next step. To feel confused, overwhelmed or tired. You’re allowed to neither be here nor there. We’re all a work in progress. Letting go of our need to have it all figured out and fit into a neat box is the first step.

Trust that in time, things will come together, how and when they are meant to. I fully believe in Divine Timing. While it can be challenging, I am learning the importance of surrender in making transitions empowering, healing experiences rather than scary ones.

Aries Energy

Mercury goes retrograde on April 1^st in fire sign Aries, adding even more emphasis on our need for flexibility and self-awareness. Our ‘spring forward’ momentum may feel slowed down. On April 8^th, we have the Solar Eclipse in Aries.

Aries energy helps us to home in on what our most authentic desires are. The next few weeks can help us identify the ways in which we want to nurture our personal needs, passions and independence, trailblaze or start something new. It can also help us find ways to live more in alignment with our inner flame. It may help us heal some wounds around who we truly are, help us shed fears and live more bravely and authentically.

We may feel frustrated at times, since linear progress may not happen how we want or as fast as we want this month, as Aries loves to push forward. But we are making progress here. As we re-align with who we truly are and what we truly want, we make progress. As we re-kindle our inner flame of passion and energy, we make progress. As we release the insecurities, masks and heavy expectations we no longer need, we make progress! Inner work is the foundation of making our dreams happen in the physical world.

The Eclipses and Mercury retrograde come to make sure we are moving forward in the right direction instead of the wrong one. There is method to the universe’s madness!

Here are some reflection questions you can work with over the next few weeks. Feel free to apply them to a specific situation you are struggling with.

What do I feel ‘done’ with?
What is no longer working for me?
Where could I afford to be a bit more honest? A bit more vulnerable? A bit braver?
What persistent desire keeps bubbling up to be felt, no matter how often I try to push it down?
What lights me up inside?
What habits or actions do I do regularly that drain my energy?
What habits or actions help to fuel my energy?
What parts of myself do I feel insecure about?
What parts of myself am I proud of?
What part of myself do I feel needs more space to exist and express itself in my life?
What part of myself or desire have I been neglecting or pushing away?

I hope this was a bit of a helpful guiding light for your path as we navigate the transitions of April, and beyond. Note that you can apply much of this to any transitional time you are navigating, like a big life change, whether it is short term or long term.

If you’d like some support and guidance for your journey at this time, I offer Tarot Readings to shed light on your situation and bring balance to your mind, body and spirit! I also offer 1 on 1 Reclaim Your Magick Sessions to help resource you for stressful times.

Blessings,

Serena

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