The Blood Moon Rises: A Witch’s Guide to the May 15 Total Lunar Eclipse
Dust off your crystals and clear your altar space—the cosmos is about to put on a show. On the night of May 15, 2022, we aren’t just witnessing any celestial event; we are stepping into the shadow of a Total Lunar Eclipse in Scorpio.
This isn’t your average “pretty moon” moment. As the Earth slides directly between the Sun and the Moon, casting its shadow (the umbra) across the lunar surface, the moon will transform from a pearly white to a deep, bruised crimson.
Here is everything you need to know to harness the magic of the Blood Moon.
The Energy: Death and Rebirth
In the world of the craft, a lunar eclipse is like a Full Moon on steroids. Because this eclipse falls in the watery, intense sign of Scorpio, the “witchy vibes” are at an all-time high. Scorpio rules the unseen, the occult, and deep transformation.
- Release: This is the ultimate “trash day” for your soul. What have you been clinging to that no longer serves your highest good?
- Shadow Work: Eclipses reveal what is hidden. Don’t be surprised if secrets come to light or buried emotions bubble up to the surface.
- Chaos Note: Unlike a standard Full Moon, eclipse energy is notoriously erratic. Most practitioners recommend laying low rather than performing heavy manifestation spells. Let the universe do the heavy lifting tonight.
Rituals for the Red Moon
If you want to lean into the mystical atmosphere tonight, try these low-stakes, high-vibe activities:
- Reflective Scrying: Place a dark bowl of water under the moonlight (even if it’s cloudy, the energy is there). Peer into the water to seek intuitive hits about your path forward.
- The “Burn and Banish”: Write down a habit, a fear, or a tie you wish to sever. Safely burn the paper and let the ashes blow away in the night wind.
- Cleanse Your Tools: While some prefer not to charge crystals in eclipse light due to its volatility, it is a fantastic time to smoke-cleanse your tarot decks or obsidian pieces with rosemary or sage.
When to Look Up
The transformation is a slow, mesmerizing burn. Depending on your timezone, the peak “Blood Moon” stage—where the moon turns that iconic rusty red—will last for about 85 minutes.
| Phase | What to Expect |
| Partial Begins | The moon looks like a bite has been taken out of it. |
| Totality | The moon is fully engulfed in Earth’s shadow and turns red. |
| Peak Eclipse | The deepest, darkest point of the transformation. |
A Final Witchy Tip
The veil is thin tonight. If the energy feels too heavy, ground yourself with some dark chocolate or a handful of almonds. Listen to your gut—Scorpio energy doesn’t lie.
Stay wild, moon child.
Stay magical,
Moonzie