Realm: Physical
Archetype: The Lover
Zodiac: Scorpio
Crystal: Beryl
In this scene, two lovers are entwined in a passionate embrace. At first glance, it may appear to be a touching moment, but appearances can be deceiving. Sometimes we can’t see the invisible chains that bind us. We believe we are experiencing love, but, in reality, these are the illusions of limerence. Obsession clouds the minds of the couple, rendering them incapable of rational thought. There are keys hanging enticingly, offering them the path to freedom, yet they choose to remain where they are, stuck fast.
When limerence strikes, it is destabilising. Our thoughts become fixated on a single object, preoccupying us and pushing other concerns down the priority list. One sure sign of this fixation is the repetitive nature of our thoughts, sometimes to an almost maddening degree. Another indication is rapidly oscillating emotions, swinging between joy and pain.
This can be quite the emotional rollercoaster and is identical to a physical dependency. It is a primal force. Recognising this pattern makes it easier to break free from its grip. Once we bring it into our conscious awareness, the chains begin to loosen. Yet, to the unaware, they become like automatons, acting solely to feed their obsession further, drawing them even closer together.
In romantic relationships, limerence can have dire consequences. The object of our affection is elevated to the pinnacle of perfection, with all flaws airbrushed away. This inevitably ends in disaster when the spell wears off, and we see the other person with clear eyes. It’s an almighty hangover. We then can understand that what we experienced was merely a fleeting sensation and not the enduring power of love. Love, by contrast, doesn’t shackle us; it frees and heals us.
Self-love is the key that unlocks these chains, as obsession often reveals areas where we lack self-love. Frequently, the very thing we were obsessing over was already within our grasp. When the shadow of limerence casts its shade over love, it is a call for us to address what we feel is lacking. Once we undertake this healing journey and overcome these issues, obsession will no longer afflict us. We will have broken free from the chains, and we will be truly free once again.