Many of us are anticipating the pink moon, meaning we're gearing up for a cherry blossom spectacle in the sky (though it'll actually appear more orange thank pink).
Those who dig deep into the celestial occasion will realize that the next full moon is going to be as intense as it is eye-catching. As one of the more significant April astrology events, this lunation will leave no one unscathed, but the pros promise its consequences will pay off in the end.
"This moon is squaring Pluto in Capricorn, so it's going to form a configuration that's pretty tricky," says astrologer Narayana Montúfar, author of Moon Signs: Unlock Your Inner Luminary Power. "They bring moments of crisis in which you have to make a decision."
Before you go into a panic à la Mercury in retrograde, allow the cosmic professionals to explain why this profound lunar cycle might feel daunting, but is ultimately necessary.
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The pink moon meaning
According to the Old Farmer's Almanac, the pink moon's moniker has been derived from Native Americans, who name each moon cycle according to the seasons. Its nickname is inspired by the creeping phlox and moss phlox flower.
In actuality, it won't be terribly pink; it'll sport more of an orange hue, but still worthy of a glance nonetheless.
If you want to catch this celestial beauty, you'll have to look east around 7:40pm ET and PT respectively. The sun is expected to set around 7:30pm ET and PT.
According to our sister site Space.com, those in the UK can catch the happening a few minutes later than those across the pond: the full moon is expected to take place at 7:55pm local time. Those Down Under have a bit of a different schedule as well: In Melbourne, Australia, it will take place at 4:55am local time and the moon rises April 16 at 5:45pm.
Full moon in Libra meaning
In astrology, the pink moon in April, the first full moon of the new astrological year, is taking place in Libra, which will force us reexamine our connections.
"It really is about balancing the energy that we put on ourselves and our relationships," Montúfar says. "With 2022 being a year in which we're doing a lot of relationship work, we're relearning how to relate. This moon being in the sign of relationships, I think it is a turning point."
Likewise, astrologer Noush of Girl and Her Moon says the April 16 happening will be telling and reveal how we should move forward.
"This energy is revealing where we need to push the breaks and realize who is being impacted by what we're pushing forward with," she says. "How can we compromise to make this a fuller picture for us and for them?"
Though it might feel daunting, think of what's no longer serving you: this lunar cycle is meant to nip those roadblocks in the bud.
"Full moons tend to offer us release, so it's a good time to let go of any people, habits or situations that you feel are holding you back," says astrologer Renée Watt.
Who will be most affected by the full moon in Libra?
You might expect a few revelations to come your way during this time, and you might be forced to think on your feet. You might be forced to change directions, but Noush says ultimately you'l be on a more productive path as a result.
"If you're allowing yourself to move through that process and be vulnerable with the revelation and not hide from it anymore, [you can] use it to empower yourself and say, 'I don't need to put me down anymore,' or 'I don't need this to control me anymore,'" she adds.
Though she believes all zodiac signs will get a taste of this full moon, Montúfar particularly believes that the cardinal signs—Aries, Cancer, Libra and Capricorn—will feel the effects the most.
Tips for the full moon in Libra
Now is not the time to take risks, it's about internalizing.
"It's really about getting in touch with stuff that's been under the surface. It will be a time to get real and it's a good time to work with the subconscious mind, for example to do hypnotherapy or healing work or journaling," Montúfar says.
Psst: these guided journaling ideas might be a good place to start. If you're looking for other ways to take a breather, we suggest downloading the best meditation apps or treating yourself to a self-care practice you enjoy, like baths or tea.
Though yes, it might sound challenging, do remember that the universe has the bigger picture in mind with this full moon.
"I feel like it's setting the stage for the rest of the year," Noush adds. "There's something here that's helping us to really release and clear out in order to progress. It's helping us to move forward with new pathways and solutions."
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