Last Updated:February 16, 2026, 18:31 IST

The world will witness a solar eclipse on Tuesday, February 17, and it is believed that such celestial events can bring about significant physical and mental changes.

Solar eclipses are believed to restore balance and spark major life changes.

Mark February 17, 2026, on your calendar for a breathtaking celestial spectacle: an annular solar eclipse, famously known as the ‘Ring of Fire.’ For astrologers, solar eclipses were profoundly karmic moments, portals capable of restoring balance and catalysing major life shifts. Even today, many spiritual practitioners view eclipses as powerful forces that can dramatically influence both personal and collective destinies.

Why Solar Eclipses Feel So Intense

A solar eclipse occurs when the Moon passes between the Earth and the Sun, dimming daylight and leaving behind a striking ‘Ring of Fire.’ Beyond the visual spectacle, many believe this celestial alignment shifts the Earth’s energetic frequencies. During this time, people often report heightened emotional sensitivity, disorientation, or an unusual sense of stillness.

Animals, too, seem to respond in remarkable ways. Birds may fall silent, pets can behave restlessly, and studies have observed spiders dismantling their webs before an eclipse, only to rebuild them afterwards, hinting at a deep biological attunement to the shifting environment.

How Does A Solar Eclipse Affect Your Body And Mind

Solar eclipses are believed to disrupt circadian rhythms, which rely on consistent sunlight. As a result, sleep patterns may become irregular, and energy levels drop. The pineal gland, which regulates sleep and is associated with intuition, may feel overstimulated, leading to vivid dreams or heightened awareness.

Digestive discomfort is also commonly reported. In spiritual traditions, this is linked to the solar plexus chakra, responsible for digestion, confidence and personal power. Temporary appetite changes, acidity or stomach unease are often seen as the body adjusting to a major cosmic shift.

Emotional Shifts and Astrological Significance

Emotionally, eclipses can feel like a rollercoaster. Sudden inspiration, anxiety, creativity, relationship tensions or strange dreams are frequently reported. Astrologically, solar eclipses are considered cosmic wildcards, often bringing sudden endings, unexpected revelations and powerful new beginnings.

Precautions To Follow During A Solar Eclipse

Ancient traditions advise avoiding major decisions during eclipses, as emotions and judgment may feel unstable. Starting new projects is discouraged, as outcomes may not unfold as planned. Manifestation rituals are often postponed since the Sun and Moon’s energies are considered weakened.

Many spiritual advisers recommend staying indoors, fasting or eating very lightly and avoiding cooking during the eclipse. Afterwards, cleansing rituals such as a spiritual bath are believed to help reset energy.

What You Should Do Instead

Eclipse season is ideal for reflection rather than action. Meditation, journaling and quiet contemplation can help process heightened emotions. Cleansing your space with incense or sacred smoke may also help clear mental and emotional heaviness.

Above all, be gentle with yourself. The days leading up to February 17 may feel strange, with vivid dreams or emotional sensitivity becoming more noticeable. This is considered normal, as eclipse energy is believed to activate weeks before the event.

When the sky darkens and the Ring of Fire appears, breathe and trust the process. Many believe the eclipse clears space for something bigger, better, and more aligned with your true path.

Foods To Eat And Avoid During A Solar Eclipse

Light, sattvic foods such as fresh fruits, nuts and coconut water are recommended. Eating freshly prepared food after the eclipse is preferred. Tulsi leaves are traditionally placed in stored food or water for protection.

Cooked or stale food, heavy meals, and non-vegetarian items are usually avoided. Fasting is common, though children, pregnant women, the elderly and the unwell are generally exempt.