Welcome back to the AstroTwins New/Full Moon series!  It’s a new moon to the hundredth power! Today’s Gemini new moon is also a solar eclipse, a time when the moon passes between the earth and the sun, temporarily blocking our view of the sun. In astrology, a solar eclipse disconnects us from our automatic or unconscious patterns, allowing us to (eventually) have a brilliant insight or make a rare leap into something new. Eclipses bring surprises. They knock us off the fence or snap us out of wishy-washy land. The solar/new moon eclipse can bring a sudden change of plans or new opportunity.

Today’s eclipse is in Gemini, the sign that rules communication, ideas, transportation and local events. You may get a stunning email, letter or phone call that changes the course of affairs in your life. A conversation that starts out innocently could morph into a huge turning point. Clearing the air to make way for something new is advisable. Gemini is the sign of the “twins,” so be on the lookout for a person whose skills and ideas complement yours…the Mini-Me to your Austin Powers (to the tune of “you complete me”). Although some people or events could be “eclipsed” out of your life, this is a new moon, so it’s more likely to bring a bold beginning. (For endings or manifestation, stay tuned for the June 15^th lunar eclipse in Sagittarius!)

It’s common to feel disoriented, as though reality is suspended, in the days surrounding an eclipse. Most astrologers warn not to make any important decisions for a few days, until the dust settles. We also look at other planets that are forming angles and relationships to the moon at an eclipse. This time, the Gemini new moon forms a harmonious “trine” angle to stern master planner Saturn. You could be asked to teach, write or speak on a topic as an expert. You could be contacted by a “heavyweight” in your industry, or offered a chance to learn from a seasoned pro. Conversations could also be learning experiences that wake you up and force you to mature.

The new moon is also in the same sign as the transiting (passing by in the sky) south node, or pole, of the moon. Let’s translate that into English, shall we? The moon’s south node represents past-life karma and residue we carry from early, less-enlightened days. Since the eclipse sweeps away the old to make room for the new, today could be a time when we truly release our attachment to a harmful way of thinking, acting or speaking. We may finally see how we sabotage ourselves with limiting thought patterns or attitudes that are designed to protect, but not to serve us. What can YOU let go of?

Here are some rituals to invite the Gemini new moon eclipse’s star power into your life:

Tell it like you see it.

Where are you being “two-faced” in your life? You know, those subtle “lies of omission,” the things you don’t say that build up and put a wedge between you and the people you love? Make a list of things you’re holding back from saying, and to whom. Things you’re too scared or shy to say aloud (like “I love you” or “you’re important to me” or “you hurt my feelings”). Then, go on and have those conversations. You’ll feel like a new woman once you do.

Find your “zone of genius”.

We’re fans of Gay Hendricks’ book The Big Leap, which talks about finding your zone of genius—that thing you do effortlessly and magically. Gemini rules books and brilliant ideas, so treat yourself to this awesome read (bonus tech-savvy Gemini option: put it on your Kindle, smartphone or iPad). If you already KNOW your zone of genius, commit to doing one thing that expresses it.

Upgrade your technology.

Gemini rules gadgets and new media—all forms of communication devices. In this world, having a crappy, behind-the-times model can actually hold you back. Are you still lugging around what feels like a 50-pound laptop? Are you eligible for a phone upgrade? Is your printer so ancient it’s practically fossilizing with each page it ekes out? Get thee to the nearest Best Buy/Apple store/cell phone carrier and update.

Go on a tech diet.

On the other hand, if you’re addicted to texting, answering every call, and staring at your Crackberry instead of engaging with people, we challenge you to a two-week technology diet. Take one hour a day minimum to go gadget-free and connect with another real, live human being!