When the Moon Breaks: Astrology and Grief
- Lorie Gehrke
- Jan 19
- 4 min read

Grief is a universal experience—one that shapes, breaks, and ultimately transforms us. In my life and work, I have often turned to astrology to make sense of the profound losses that have defined my journey. The phrase Broken Moon encapsulates the deep emotional fractures that accompany grief, as well as the healing and resilience that can emerge when we embrace those broken pieces. In astrology, the Moon governs our emotions, intuition, and the cyclical nature of life. To me, a "broken moon" is not simply an image of despair but a reflection of our capacity to grow through life's most challenging moments.
In this post, I’d like to introduce the concept of Broken Moon and explore how astrology helps us understand and navigate grief. I’ll also share how my own experiences inform my services and expertise in this area, offering guidance for those seeking healing and meaning.
What Does a Broken Moon Mean?
The Moon in astrology symbolizes the emotional self—the part of us that feels deeply, seeks security, and connects us to the rhythms of life. When I think of a Broken Moon, I think of the times when this emotional center feels fractured. This could be through the loss of a loved one, the ending of a significant relationship, or any moment that shakes the foundations of our emotional world.
Yet, there is beauty in this brokenness. Just as the Moon cycles through phases of light and shadow, so too do we navigate periods of darkness and renewal. A Broken Moon is not the end; it’s an invitation to rebuild, reimagine, and reconnect with our deepest selves. In my work, I’ve found that astrology offers profound insights into these cycles, helping us find meaning in the midst of loss.
Grief and Healing in Astrology
Astrology provides a rich language for understanding the emotional and spiritual aspects of grief. Here are some key areas where grief and healing often show up in a natal chart:
The Moon: As the ruler of our emotions and instincts, the Moon often reflects our emotional wounds and how we process loss. A challenging aspect, such as a square or opposition involving the Moon, can point to emotional struggles or the need to integrate difficult experiences.
The 12th House: Known as the house of the unconscious, the 12th house is a space of endings, solitude, and spiritual insight. Planets here often indicate themes of grief, loss, and transcendence, as well as the potential for profound healing and spiritual growth.
Chiron: Known as the "Wounded Healer," Chiron represents the places where we experience deep pain and the potential for healing others through our own wounds. A prominent Chiron placement in a chart often speaks to themes of grief and the wisdom that comes from embracing our brokenness.
Pluto and Saturn: These planets represent transformation and lessons, respectively. Pluto governs cycles of death and rebirth, while Saturn asks us to face the hard truths of life. Transits or natal placements involving these planets often mark pivotal periods of loss and growth.
Eclipses and Lunar Phases: Eclipses and significant lunar phases can act as emotional turning points, highlighting areas of release and renewal.
In my own chart, the Moon in Gemini in the 10th house squares Pluto and Uranus in Virgo in the 1st house—a powerful aspect that reflects sudden, transformative experiences with loss. Understanding this aspect has been instrumental in my own healing and in guiding others through their journeys.
My Journey with the Broken Moon
The concept of Broken Moon emerged from my personal experience with loss. The death of my firstborn daughter, Lauren, to SIDS was a defining moment in my life. It shattered the world I knew and reshaped my understanding of grief, love, and resilience.
Lauren’s chart and the transits at the time of her death revealed patterns that aligned with profound emotional and spiritual lessons. This experience shaped my passion for using astrology as a tool for emotional healing. It also deepened my understanding of how grief manifests in the chart and how we can work with these energies to find meaning and growth.
How I Can Support Your Journey
Through my work as an astrologer, grief counselor, and nutritionist, I help clients navigate the complexities of grief and healing. My services are designed to empower you to align with your unique energies and find meaning in the cycles of life. Here’s how I can support you:
Grief-Focused Astrology Consultations: We’ll explore your natal chart to uncover the emotional and spiritual themes that inform your grief journey. This may include examining the Moon, 12th house, and significant transits to provide insight and guidance.
Workshops and Classes: My Broken Moon workshops dive deep into the emotional and spiritual dimensions of astrology, offering tools for understanding grief and finding resilience. These classes provide a supportive space to connect with others on similar paths.
Personalized Guidance: Whether you’re navigating a recent loss or exploring long-standing emotional patterns, I offer one-on-one consultations tailored to your needs.
Finding Meaning in the Broken Moon
Grief is not something we "get over." It’s a journey that becomes part of who we are, reshaping us in ways we never expected. The Broken Moon symbolizes this process—the shattering of old forms and the emergence of something new. Through astrology, we can find a map for this journey, uncovering insights that help us embrace both the pain and the possibilities of transformation.
If you’re navigating your own Broken Moon moment, I invite you to reach out. Whether through a consultation, a workshop, or simply connecting over shared experiences, I’m here to help you find meaning and healing in the cycles of life. Together, we can honor the light that shines through the cracks, illuminating a path toward renewal and wholeness.
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