Open Your Heart and Listen: New Moon in Gemini 2016

Elder blossoms in bloom; Jonathan Billinger [CC BY-SA 2.0 (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/2.0)], via Wikimedia Commons

New Moon @ 14 Gemini 53'
June 4, 2016
10:59 PM Eastern
7:59 PM Pacific

At the heart of Gemini, is the pursuit of new information and the sharing, dispensing, and endless questioning of that information. This month’s New Moon occurs in tropical Gemini. It’s also in the cross-hairs of some serious tension! First off, the New Moon conjoins the planet Venus--a potent symbol for relationships (in the romantic and platonic contexts). All relationships need to grow and change. But you may find that at this New Moon, the seeds of considerable change are being planted. And this is likely to emerge in your most personal encounters with others.

The thing about a New Moon is that it is hidden. If you were to go out in the sky and look for the Moon, you wouldn't see it.  And ditto with Venus here. Something is happening in your heart and relationships that you can’t see right now. It’s there, you know it’s there, but it’s not palpable or real yet. This is a moment of transition.You can only sense it--like a ghostly presence upon you. The planet Saturn, in Sagittarius, makes an opposition to the New Moon.

What you might notice is that a new way of communicating with others is needed now. Perhaps you feel you have outgrown your response to those closest to you. Or perhaps,  you need a new language to effectively express yourself fully. To compound the tension, Neptune and Jupiter both sit in opposition to each other (180 degrees apart) and both planets hit the New Moon and Saturn at a 90-degree angle (a square). So what we’re looking at here is a grand cross. 

The cross is a symbol often associated with sacrifice and resurrection. In astrology, we recognize the “cross of matter”--essentially the birth chart itself. This is the intersection point between the spiritual and material. A grand cross can feel like an impossible and irresolvable crisis. Neptune adds an otherworldly dimension to this New Moon, or a desire to escape to avoid resolving any tension you may feel within yourself. And Jupiter opens opportunities for personal growth and extending assistance to others.

Acting out this New Moon negatively might result in trying to force your vision or version of the truth onto others or the world in some way. It might also look like losing yourself in some cause or movement in an attempt to avoid facing the reality of personal and existential uncertainty. It might look like giving others unsolicited advice or trying to save someone from what you might perceive to be a threat. But  all saviors are tricksters. The savior unwittingly ushers in a new paradigm through accident and happenstance. And beyond salvation, is transformation. What should you do with this New Moon tension? 

Maybe you choose to open your heart and simply listen. In fact, listening might be the best use of your time. And when you have listened enough, maybe discuss things openly, humbly, and authentically. Accept what you don’t know and remain open to new answers. Applied collectively, this New Moon is a powerful statement about needing to trust the great mystery. Sometimes, the solutions we seek arise all on their own, but only if we allow ourselves to go through the growing pain, the birth pain and the existential pain. And it’s in the midst of it, at the epicenter of crisis and unknowing that Jung once suggested, “that we know that we’re truly alive.” 

You did not come to Earth without a guide. Evolutionary Astrology is a powerful tool for self-discovery and an exceptionally helpful guide in times of uncertainty, crisis or stagnation. Click here for reading options and pricing.

Exploring Space Together: Full Moon in Sagittarius 2016

By maxime raynal from France (Bateau et voie lactée) [CC BY 2.0 (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0)], via Wikimedia Commons

Full Moon @ 01 Sagittarius 14'

May 21, 2016

5:14 PM Eastern

2:14 PM Pacific

I’m sure that you’ve noticed by now that we live in a reality that expresses itself through duality. A Full Moon illustrates this principle dynamically. In astrology, we associate the Moon with a receptive impulse and the Sun with an active impulse. The Moon receives and reflects while the Sun actively asserts its radiance. This month’s Full Moon occurs in tropical Sagittarius. It also conjoins (makes an alignment) with the planet Mars which is currently retrograde (appearing to move backwards until the end of June).
 
A Full Moon is a moment of culmination; it brings something to a head. It can be a time of higher energy and momentum. The Moon relates to our mood at any given time, and how we feel around a Full Moon can be an indication of what is arising or what has been repressed. During this Full Moon, unresolved anger or fear may surface. It may equally bring to light desires for adventure, whether those adventures are palpable or of the mind need not matter. Exploration of the universe can happen both inwardly and outwardly. While Mars is retrograde, we are in a process of redefining passion, desire, and appropriate action. We are building the momentum needed to set ourselves on a new path for the attainment of what we really want in life.
 
And that requires courage and bravery to step up to the challenge and claim what is rightfully ours. But a Full Moon is also a moment of compromise and reconciliation. This is further punctuated by the opposition from Venus to the Moon and Mars. Appropriate action is understanding how much force one should use--when to assert ourselves and when to back off. Venus in Taurus asks that you be mindful of your body and its limitations, and also that space be created for silence, peace and rejuvenation. The power of this Full Moon is such that you may feel the need to expand outwardly, feeling as if the world just isn’t big enough for what’s possible.
 
Jupiter square Saturn suggests that you be cautious and realistic with this Full Moon energy. Be mindful of being too sure of yourself and your beliefs. The Sun in Gemini suggests doing more research and talking things out with others to see their point of view. Venus in Taurus also suggests that you trust your instincts and the wisdom of your own body too. Try not to get too caught up in being right or dogmatic. Be wary of others doing the same. If getting what you want ends up hurting others or excluding their point of view, it may be time to rethink your approach and find a compromise. And you may also realize that you don’t have to do it all by yourself either.

Mars is a powerful archetype, especially in a fire sign. If you wish to avoid conflict or butting heads during this Full Moon, then allow your Mars some healthy expression. The Moon so often conceals the energy of Mars behind the fear of not wanting to hurt others. And yet, hurting others for our own selfishness can turn ugly too. So, where does that leave you? It leaves you in that beautiful dance of duality, betwixt and between light and dark which must co-exist to co-create. Admit your desires. Be vulnerable. Talk things out with someone you trust. Set boundaries. Get your anger out through healthy physical expression. Say what you need to say, but realize that your viewpoint isn’t absolute. And don’t lose sight of the seemingly infinite possibilities which can be explored with those you truly love.

I'll leave you with this video of the late, great comedian Bill Hicks who had the Sun, Mercury, Mars, and Venus in Sagittarius.....

You did not come to Earth without a guide. Evolutionary Astrology is a powerful tool for self-discovery and an exceptionally helpful guide in times of uncertainty, crisis or stagnation. Click here for reading options and pricing.

Incoming Messages: The Transit of Mercury 2016

By edhiker (http://www.flickr.com/photos/edhiker/292807612/) [CC BY 2.0 (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0)], via Wikimedia Commons

I hope that you're surviving this Mercury retrograde cycle. I'm doing my best. The trickster seems to have singled me out this time, but I think I’ll make it and come out more aware of myself and the world. Mercury will also do something really interesting on May 9. It will pass over the face of the Sun! This is called a Transit of Mercury, and it’s an exciting event for serious and amateur astronomers. Due to the fact that Mercury and Venus lie between the Earth and the Sun, they're the only planets to do this from Earth’s perspective.

We recently experienced a Transit of Venus (much rarer) back in May of 2012. The last Transit of Mercury was in November of 2006, ten years ago. There were also transits of Mercury in 1999 and 2003. During a Transit of Mercury, Mercury will appear as a tiny black dot moving across the face of the Sun. And no, you cannot see it with the naked eye! In order to view this event, you need special equipment--a telescope and special filters to protect you from going blind. You can also watch it live online, though seeing it through a telescope (with proper equipment) is a lot more exciting.

Is there anything special about a Transit of Mercury astrologically? The Transits of Venus appear to have a significant correlation with cultural and artistic turning points, but it is much rarer than Mercury’s transits. There are about 13 to 14 Transits of Mercury per century. So, in a given lifetime, we experience quite a few. A Transit of Mercury occurs during a Mercury retrograde cycle when Mercury makes an alignment (called a conjunction) with the Sun, but its orbital plane is such that the planet visually crosses over the Sun.

Normally, this is called an inferior conjunction of Mercury which happens at the midpoint of every Mercury retrograde cycle. Mercury is hard to see at any time, but especially when it conjoins the Sun. The Sun’s light outshines it. When Mercury descends into the Sun, such as during its retrograde periods, it is moving behind the scenes. There is a lot going on right now that you can’t see. And it will involve Mercurial things--communication, writing, teaching, and your perceptual awareness of reality. But on May 9, during the Transit of Mercury, some hidden process emerges onto the solar disk of the Sun.

What is hidden and unconscious makes an appearance. Keep your awareness attuned to this reality. Information, signs, omens and synchronicities are revealing themselves to you. New realms are opening up, and with them, a new perception of your world. This is a month to keep your mind receptive to incoming messages. While Mercury retrograde can be a time of increased frustrations, try to see the hidden gifts in the setbacks. You may be a gifted a new awareness, and a new way of communicating it to the world.

We don’t often associate Mercury with things like synchronicities--what most modern people are trained to call "coincidences". But it's how the universe speaks to us. And Mercury is the messenger of the gods. With winged feet, it flies back and forth between dimensions to bring us glimpses of new realms. As Mercury crosses the face of the Sun, it's likely that you will notice these messages more frequently, along with some seemingly frustrating situations. But if you can, see what there is to learn from them. You just might learn something important and profound.

Taking the Scenic Route: New Moon in Taurus 2016

By NIHAL JABIN (Own work) [CC BY-SA 3.0 (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0)], via Wikimedia Commons

New Moon @ 16 Taurus 41'

May 6, 2016

3:29 PM Eastern

12:29 PM Pacific

Two inner planets are currently in retrograde (they appear to be moving backwards).This optical illusion manifests within each of us internally. For a while, life feels sluggish and uncooperative. This is highly common when Mercury is retrograde, which it will be for the next two weeks. Such a feeling may be accentuated further by the fact that Mercury conjoins this New Moon in a sign that’s known for taking its sweet time. In tropical Taurus, the Sun and Moon initiate a slow and steady process of growth and development over the next lunation cycle.
 
The universe may be telling you to slow it down. You’ll likely find that situations around you have indicated this pretty clearly. There’s no need to rush with Taurus. This is a sign that prefers taking the scenic route--the detour through the forest just to smell the pine trees. You may find that image helpful. In fact, open your mind to all of the detours that may be cropping up in your life right now. If the usual path isn’t open to you, there’s probably another, and an opportunity to enter a new landscape.
 
Mercury retrograde often reroutes us. This can be frustrating as well as liberating. It all depends on how you choose to respond and perceive it. This is a time to keep your mind loose and open--willing to take in alternative points of view. Taurus emphasizes the physical body and the need to enjoy it. It also relates to natural beauty and the value we attach to things. At the moment, Mercury, Venus and the Sun are moving through Taurus. Such an emphasis in this sign indicates that it would be wise to take the next two weeks to tune into your body and allow yourself some rest and recovery in whatever way you can.
 
The New Moon also forms a grand trine between Jupiter and Pluto. At the start of the current lunar cycle, you may find that your mind is focused on practical matters--survival, outer accomplishments, or physical health. Some of these areas, especially relating to finances, may not be moving as fast as you would like. But perhaps, this is an opportunity to take care of yourself, or at least discover new ways of doing so. And as a result, your physical needs will be met in time. Be aware that Mercury is helping you to devise a new strategy or approach.
 
Ultimately, Taurus is a sign that emphasizes self-love.It’s association with Venus and the second house archetypes relate to self-worth as connected to personal wealth and resources. We live in a society that equates wealth with self-worth. We’re taught to accumulate resources to feel good about ourselves or worthy. But natural wisdom tells us that it works a lot better the other way around. Take some time over the remaining two weeks to reevaluate your relationship to self-love and its connection to the flow of resources in your life.
 
As the Sun and Moon conjoin on May 6, use this moment to relax and catch your breath. You might find it beneficial to immerse yourself in nature by going for a hike, hitting the beach, or taking a short camping trip. Whatever you do, keep it simple. Maybe you just end up eating some ice cream and watching the clouds pass by outside your window. That works, too! The New Moon is a time of lower energy anyway, and Taurus takes an easy pace. I think you get the point and you’re probably feeling it, too.

You did not come to Earth without a guide. Evolutionary Astrology is a powerful tool for self-discovery and an exceptionally helpful guide in times of uncertainty, crisis or stagnation. Click here for reading options and pricing.

Kosmic Mind Blog by Chad Woodward is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-No Derivative Works 3.0 United States License.

Going With the Retrograde Flow

By Randi Hausken from Bærum, Norway (In the stream) [CC BY-SA 2.0], via Wikimedia Commons

Sometimes, life seems to be at a standstill. This might be one of those times. Currently, five planets are in retrograde. They appear to be moving backwards. This is an optical illusion. Planets don’t actually move backwards. If your life appears to be slogging along, that is an illusion, too. There really is no time. Time itself is an illusion. But illusions are convincing, and our entire existence depends on them. What you’re feeling is likely convincing and real. That’s okay. You’re probably not alone.

Mercury, Mars, Jupiter, Saturn, and Pluto all appear to be moving backwards. The most significant of these are Mercury and Mars. These two cycles are overlapping, and that is rare. It’s rare because Mars turns retrograde only every two years. And its correlation with Mercury retrograde enhances all this retrograde energy that saturates the air. Some things get stuck during retrograde cycles while others actually begin to move. It all depends on what it is.

But at the moment, both Mercury and Mars have just recently changed direction, that is, moved from forward to backward motion. And when that happens, things often feel stagnant and possibly frustrating. Mercury relates to communication and commerce while Mars deals with passion and willpower. Mercury is in Taurus and Mars is in Sagittarius. Uncertainty about resources and your personal values are likely. Lost passion and subsequent frustration (and anger) over a lack of perspective or adventure in life are likely too.

The good news? Retrograde periods are moments of revision and an opportunity to do things differently. They open new realities and worlds to us. But there’s always a transition. We are at such a time. Use this time to pause and step back. Take a break from how you typically approach what it is that’s not doing what you want it to. And over the next few weeks, you’ll find that a new approach is emerging if you are open to it.

For Mars, you are building up some momentum that will carry you far. That will relate to something specific in your life. If you know some astrology, look to the house in your natal chart that Mars is currently in. If not, trust your impulses and desires right now (the ones that won’t get you into serious trouble). This is an opportunity to change your life in some drastic way. Think about something you have always wanted. Now is the time, over the next two months, to build the foundation for its attainment. This is powerful magic.

With Mercury, over the next three weeks, tune into your body. Take some time to relax and trust that there aren’t many things in life that can’t wait three weeks. You are on the threshold of a potential breakthrough in many ways. And that is exciting. Make more illusionary time in your life over these three weeks for flexibility and changes of direction.

Keep your mind open to new perceptions regarding your body and the natural world around you. The universe will give you extra time for whatever you feel you don’t have time for. Get it? Good. Trust it. I’ll leave you with a quote from Lewis Hyde, author of Trickster Makes This World, “the agile mind is pleased to find what it was not looking for.”

Primal Wisdom: Full Moon in Scorpio 2016

Wall art in the caves of Lascaux; by Prof saxx (Own work) [GFDL or CC-BY-SA-3.0, via   Wikimedia Commons

Full Moon @ 02 Scorpio 31’
April 21, 2016
10:24 PM Pacific
April 22, 2016
1:24 AM Eastern

April’s Full Moon reaches its climax in the tropical sign of Scorpio just after the planet Mars turns stationary retrograde in Sagittarius. In many ways, this lunation points to Mars, not because it touches it in any direct way, but through Mars’ resonance with the sign of Scorpio. As I’ve discussed in detail in my article on Mars retrograde, this rare cycle is always somewhat pivotal. It occurs roughly every two years and there’s a significant association with its occurrence and particular karmic circumstances that tend to develop around it. These situations have probably already emerged for you, in the weeks leading up to its reversal of direction.

I suppose everything in life is a result of our karma. But Mars (and even Venus) retrogrades tend to stir up a particular kind of karma we share with other people, and with Mars that can be sexual or involve the need to resolve conflict or pent up anger we carry share between us and those we relate to. But at the root of it, Mars deals with the most primal components of the human psyche. Yes, sex is certainly a part of that and something the modern world places a lot of restrictions on.

 The psychoanalyst Wilhelm Reich proposed that the repression of sexuality led to the emergence of political figures who we (as a society) projected god-like status upon. That might sound rather strange at first, but if we understand the true power of sex and infatuation, it doesn’t seem too far off. The feelings and emotions stirred up through sex give us the sense of a spiritual bond with someone; they often stir up a longing to return to the womb. We unconsciously equate the womb with the source of life.

 Whether “spiritual”, theistic, or atheist, every human being can identify with the womb as the most primordial archetype that is ubiquitously shared within the human psyche. It appears that no matter your spiritual or philosophical orientation, no one is immune to the hormonal magic (or trickery) that certain people create for us when we become intimate. Sex is how we all got here anyway. Sexual repression is perhaps a major cause of war and violence in the world. That certainly seems to be a theme associated with the newly discovered planet Eris (which I wrote about in my last article on the New Moon) that will conjoin Uranus this June. And in this lunation chart, we see Venus conjunct Uranus and Eris!

A Full Moon is a moment of climax and culmination. It brings to a head some process that began at the New Moon two weeks prior. But with Mars retrograde now, and this Full Moon’s presence in Scorpio, you may notice that situations may be coming to a head from some time ago, perhaps other lifetimes, or perhaps merely situations that have been brewing for a while in the background. We also can’t forget Scorpio’s resonance with Pluto--the outer planet that was demoted to dwarf planet status by the Astronomical Union when Eris was discovered.

I think we’re all feeling this collectively now, that we are on the brink of some unknown and mysterious transition point. Every moment of change and transition is accompanied by a sense of fear and uncertainty. Scorpio certainly contains an archetypal resonance with primal fear: whether that’s being torn apart by saber-toothed tigers, grizzly bears, carried away by a tsunami or abandoned by those we trust and love. The fears stirred up by this Full Moon, should they arise, may involve fears connected to our relationships and the commitment required to hold them together. Venus, Uranus and Eris in the sign of Aries significantly highlight freedom, independence, and autonomy. And yet Scorpio also relates to intimate bonding and exclusivity. How do you make space for both? It starts by making clear boundaries and asserting your right to be yourself in whatever situation you find yourself.

Fear is a useful ally when it comes to our survival, but it appears to direct many people’s choices and decisions in the modern world, especially in the U.S. since the events of 9/11. Mars retrograde invites you, until the end of June, to face some fears head on. When you do that, you’ll find that you’ll have more courage and freedom to pursue your authentic path--free from the dictates of unconscious controls you may have placed upon yourself. And as this Full Moon culminates, it invites you to get real about what you really want and need to evolve. That may be a little painful, to cut through all the crap that’s been in the way, but when in doubt, listen to your primal wisdom, your gut instincts. They will guide the way to clarifying your intentions.

The Price of Freedom: New Moon in Aries 2016

Day 40 of Occupy Wall Street; photo by David Shankbone.

New Moon @ 18 Aries 04'

April 7, 2016

3:23 AM Pacific

6:23 AM Eastern

April is an interesting month and one in which you may find catalytic for many new experiences. On a collective level, April’s New Moon symbolizes a prelude to a significant historical marker: the conjunction of Uranus and the newly discovered dwarf planet Eris. These two planets will first conjoin this June, but April’s New Moon occurs within the vicinity of this building conjunction, giving us a preview of the archetypal energy that it will embody in our personal and collective lives.

Eris was discovered in 2005 and was responsible for demoting Pluto from a planet to a dwarf planet. Eris made headlines in major news publications and completely altered the solar system. While there have been many new and significant discoveries, Eris stands out as the object that single-handedly brought so much upheaval within the astronomical community. I personally think Eris is a powerful archetype and that it has much to teach us. But what does Eris mean?

As with any new discovery, it will take time before we have a working interpretative framework, but for now we have some key themes associated with the mythology. Eris is named after a trickster goddess, a goddess of discord, chaos, and strife. In the most popular Greek mythos, Eris threw a golden apple inscribed with the phrase “to the fairest” into a wedding party (that she wasn’t invited to) causing a competitive tussle between the goddesses Hera, Aphrodite, and Athena that resulted in the Trojan War.

 It appears that Eris may have an association with some of the deepest layers of the primordial unconscious involving fierce competition, primal sexuality, and themes relating to the survival of the fittest. On another layer, Eris may embody issues surrounding wealth inequality and the social problems connected with status and privilege. And as a trickster goddess associated with Chaos, her influence often correlates with disruption and upheaval. We can also say the same of Uranus, and these two planets coming together are bound to create some turbulence within the collective psyche.

As the current lunar cycle comes to a close, you may notice that feeling of something ending and yet something unknown and mysterious taking its place. This is a common feeling during a New Moon, and to make things even more ambiguous, we have the presence of this new object that we are being invited to integrate into our consciousness. The New Moon occurs in tropical Aries which begins the zodiac cycle. Aries may symbolize the need for new adventures along with new stress and challenges.

With the presence of Uranus, we get the symbolism of trailblazing for the sake of independence, personal freedom, and autonomy. But the path you may find yourself following may feel uncertain, even a little scary. That’s because you’re encroaching upon a new evolutionary threshold—one in which the modern world has yet to touch upon. To do that requires immense bravery and courage. It requires staring into the unknown without allowing fear to hold you back or to keep you from achieving your goals.

The New Moon’s trine (a 120 degrees relationship) aspect to Saturn will help facilitate rapid growth and maturity—as long as you step up to the challenge that lies before you without taking short cuts or avoiding the need for discipline and focus. Pluto in Capricorn also squares (makes a 90 degrees relationship) with this lunation as well.  If you take the initiative with this New Moon, you will find that you have an opportunity to completely alter the structures in your life in some profound way.

And always with Pluto, you must confront deeply embedded feelings and fears. As you charge forth this month, you may encounter what appears to be a brick wall that seems impenetrable. But if you can imagine a wall constructed out of beliefs and limitations inherent to your own mind, you can see that perhaps there’s a way past it through the intentional transcendence of fear. Uranus conjunct the New Moon asks you how much you would pay for freedom. How much are you willing to give up to direct your own life? That might require stepping up and becoming your own authority, and releasing the need for others to take care of you. The price is that void of uncertainty that lies before you.

The current lunar cycle is one in which you can initiate some big changes in your personal life—whether drastic or subtle. Those changes are probably frightening and uncertain. Remember that whatever Eris ultimately embodies is something in which we must, collectively, become conscious of. Consider that in your own life, too. What new realities have you yet to glimpse? It’s both an exciting and unnerving process. To become conscious of anything is often uncomfortable and sometimes even painful. But Aries stirs up your inner warrior. This New Moon can give you the boost of courage and stamina you need. And once you set things into motion, the universe will take care of the rest. 

Bridging Heart and Mind: Lunar Eclipse in Libra 2016

The spiral galaxy M81. Photo by NASA/JPL-Caltech/S. Willner (Harvard-Smithsonian Center for Astrophysics)

Penumbral Lunar Eclipse @ 03 Libra 17'
March 23, 2016
5:01 AM Pacific
8:01 AM Eastern

As we near the end of the month, the current lunar cycle culminates with a penumbral Lunar Eclipse in the tropical sign of Libra just four days after the equinox (spring in the northern and autumn in the southern hemispheres). As you pass through this first eclipse portal of 2016, you may have noticed a shift within yourself (however drastic or subtle). Eclipses are moments of inner change, change that happens beneath the surface—often relating to an awareness of something new within yourself or your environment.

The challenge is holding onto the new awareness that the eclipse portal has gifted you. These are often brief periods of time where the ego has lessened its stranglehold upon consciousness. It is a fertile period for inner work and self-realization. And there is often an opportunity to accelerate internal growth and change. This Lunar Eclipse/Full Moon seals the deal, so to speak. It brings to a head the process that began just two weeks ago at the Solar Eclipse in Pisces.

Now that the Sun has entered Aries, you may feel a sense of a new beginning. You are responding to a collective shift which happens every year. Astrologers like to refer to this moment as the Astrological New Year because the Sun has begun a new cycle around the ecliptic. For you, that may feel like an experience of starting out fresh. New potentials wait to be revealed and brought to manifestation.

The Lunar Eclipse highlights the sign of Libra, an archetype with a strong association with relationship.The eclipse may correlate with a shift in how you relate to friends, partners, clients or those you work with directly. It may relate to inner changes that will be reflected within the social environment around you. Metaphysically speaking, the outer reality is a reflection of your internal state.

Pay close attention to the people you interact with on the days surrounding this eclipse. Choose to make it a point to simply observe and notice what is happening around you. Mercury, the messenger of the gods, is conjunct the Sun and in direct opposition to the Lunar Eclipse. Information, messages, omens, and synchronicity will all play a vital role in the eclipse process. While the mind may be focused on a new pathway that lies ahead of you—blazing that trail, so to speak, the heart feels compelled to focus on the needs, opinions, and perceptions of other people.

This can symbolize a subtle breakthrough in your ability to find common ground and compromise without sacrificing freedom, autonomy, and personal willpower. And realize that the new pathways you seek now will be revealed to you through your relationships. Focus on supporting certain connections and through them, you will find the freedom you seek. The dark side of this lunation is the temptation toward passive aggressiveness due to overt people pleasing and politeness; or conversely, defending a viewpoint to the point of annihilating the possibility of seeing the other side of the issue.

Can you bridge the heart and mind and come to a mutual understanding now, or will you simply butt heads, or totally surrender to someone else’s point of view just to avoid conflict (leading to the repression of your true feelings)? Explore your feelings now; allow them to enter your conscious awareness, and choose the path that has the most heart. To open your mind to another requires that you equally open your own heart.

Also, be mindful that this eclipse takes place near the Aries point. Any event that occurs at the entry of cardinal signs (Aries, Cancer, Libra, and Capricorn) will activate the Aries point (technically the first degree of Aries). The Aries point is the intersection of the personal and the collective. It can often indicate the emergence of collective events which impact us all--that seep into our personal or intimate lives. 

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I’ve been writing astrology posts on my blog since about 2009. That’s seven years. I’ve used this time to develop my writing and to build my confidence as both a writer and an astrologer. I think I still have a lot of work left to do. I’m not sure that will ever end. At this point, I’d like to connect more with my audience (that means you), and to do that, I want to invite you to sign up for my free newsletter. It will be sent out bi-weekly—that’s just twice a month. If you already receive e-mail pings about new posts from my blog that’s great, but my newsletter will be unique because, in addition to New and Full Moon readings, I will be including exclusive content only for newsletter subscribers that will not be available on my blog page. That’s pretty cool, right?

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Glimpsing the Miraculous: Total Solar Eclipse in Pisces 2016

Sun Rays at Lake Heiniö, Pieksämäki; photo by Vijo Viitanen, 2006.

Total Solar Eclipse @ 18 Pisces 56'

March 8, 2016

8:54 PM Eastern

5:54 PM Pacific

As the current lunar cycle begins again, the Sun and Moon align to create a Total Solar Eclipse alongside a strong emphasis of planets (including the eclipse) in the tropical sign of Pisces. Pisces is a sign which describes perceptions that are above and beyond the reality of our everyday experiences—those of a “spiritual” and transcendent nature. From my perspective, everything in life is essentially spiritual. Every experience we have is a part of our spiritual journey. Whether you're meditating in a monastery or staring at the television until you die, you're on a spiritual path. But for many people living in the modern world, conditioned by overt materialism and existentialism, the world of the senses is taken entirely at face value.

Eclipses are potent moments in time where we are afforded the opportunity to see beyond surface appearances, and they often correlate with profound inner shifts and changes. In Pisces, we come to the realization that life itself is not what it appears to be. “Spiritual”, when used in the Piscean context, describes the awareness, even if it’s just intellectual, that the world before us is somehow more symbolic than it is literal. To fully integrate the ultimate perception of Pisces, one must accept that events throughout life are not random products of chance or chaos—that what may, at first glance, appear to be chaotic, is actually directed by some intelligence that is far beyond that of our own. A higher spiritual understanding of life is the awareness that we are, always, engaging in a dialogue with an intelligent universe.

This month, the heavy cluster of planets in Pisces including Neptune, Mercury, Ceres, Sun, Chiron (and even the south node of the Moon), draw our attention to this deeper metaphysical revelation about our reality. The world of objects and random events are merely the ghostly emanations of archetypal energies embedded in a vast field that encapsulates the physical world. That is a difficult perception to carry with you throughout your daily life. The mind simply cannot fully accept it most of the time (and for good reason). But at times such as this, or during particular cycles in our lives (such as transits of planets through the 12^th house or the cycles of Neptune in our horoscope), we are given an opportunity to glimpse this deeper understanding of the world around us.

We are given the chance to witness “miracles”—experiences that suggest that there is something more going on here than meets the eye. The Solar Eclipse itself makes a conjunction (alignment) with Chiron. This interesting object, discovered in 1977, appears, often, to have a deep correlation with miraculous and spontaneous healings and the reversal of disease processes (physically, mentally, and emotionally). But Chiron’s highest teaching appears to be that one’s attitude towards reality can actually change it and cause it to shift. To witness the miraculous with this eclipse, you must be open to the possibility that magic, synchronicity, and the existence of fate are very real things we interact with on a daily basis.

The planet Jupiter in Virgo lies directly opposite the Solar Eclipse while the planet Saturn in Sagittarius makes a 90 degrees aspect (a square) to both the eclipse/Chiron and Jupiter.This lunation is one that contains a potent dynamic of tension—tension you can use to make something happen and fully manifest. The square aspect from Saturn requires discipline, focus, and considerable effort. But consider that, above all else, your faith and trust in life will be your true ally during this current lunar cycle, even in the face of a reality that may seem quite daunting or challenging.

Jupiter in Virgo invites us to somehow integrate this mystical, Piscean perspective into our everyday lives in some practical way that can be useful to ourselves as well as others. And Saturn in Sagittarius invites us to take actions that require intent and sustained focus to break free of limiting beliefs, routines, and patterns which have halted growth and maturity. There is a way to break through the prison of your current perception, but you must honor the illusion that lies before you as a means through which spirit chooses to communicate wisdom and teachings to you. To successfully integrate this lunation, you must engage with reality in a conscious and sober way. Choosing to escape what you don’t want to face, will make this lunation more difficult. Make an effort with your New Moon meditation to find the magical and miraculous in your everyday life and the affairs of the world.

No matter what difficulties you encounter now, big or small, simply remind yourself that things aren’t what they seem. Explore the possibility that random events, whether painful or wonderful, are a form of communication, a means through which some vaster part of yourself and your reality is choosing to speak to you. As you engage with the world during this New Moon/Solar Eclipse, remain fully conscious and willing to accept that your life is guiding you toward a higher, imperceptible potential that only you can intuit deep within yourself. And then ask yourself throughout the next several days, or weeks, “Am I trusting?” When you do that, when you open yourself to trusting the moment, you may just glimpse the miraculous.

Click the link above for information on personal readings/consultations.

The Gift You Truly Are: Full Moon in Virgo 2016

A silhouetted man facing the Sun in Israel; image from PikiWiki-Israel free image project.

Full Moon @ 3 Virgo 34'

February 22, 2016

1:20 PM Eastern

10:20 AM Pacific

As the current lunar cycle comes to its full expression in the tropical sign of Virgo, the Sun has just transitioned into Pisces and approaches the planet Neptune. Thus, this Full Moon is in opposition to Neptune, the nebulous and mysterious planet residing in its home sign, the mystical Piscean sea. As always with a Full Moon, there is a sense of building energy and potential within the collective psyche. Full Moons are symbolic moments of blossoming and culmination. What we have intended and set into motion at the New Moon begins to manifest. The power of this Full Moon highlights, first and foremost, the archetype of Virgo.

Virgo is a symbol of service and the humble contribution of one’s talent and competence to the greater community. In the western world, this is something that we strive to do, but greatly under value. Our western, cultural conditioning places achievement and “success” over the value of service.  We value more the result of our service than we do the service itself. Success in the western world often equates to making a lot of money or achieving a notable status or prestige. But true service requires an attitudinal shift that places helpfulness and competence over the fruits of one’s labor.

When we truly help another person, when we are effective at what we do, there are rewards that transcend anything material. When we give in the spirit of heart centered giving, of truly desiring to be helpful, we create something far more meaningful than the acquisition of personal, material wealth. This is the highest expression and potential of Virgo: to be useful and practically helpful. And always with Virgo, there is an emphasis on constant improvement. To become good at what we do, we need to constantly be mindful of how we can get better.

This Full Moon highlights these ideals. The dark side is striving for the unrealistic goal of perfection along with obsessive fault finding. Also, be mindful of the trap of presenting yourself as some unrealistic, puritanical symbol that no human being can entirely embody. Neptune’s opposition and the Sun’s presence in Pisces are reminding us that behind appearances lies a deeper meaning, a higher purpose to what you seek to do and become. It’s possible that what you put out into the world comes back to you on another plane of existence—one that you do not see in your normal waking life.

I think that the western world has reached the apex of existentialism. So many people live, unwittingly, in an existential universe where life is ultimately meaningless. Such an attitude has resulted in the pandemic of planetary exploitation and mass escapism. When life has no meaning, the best we can do is live for the moment (YOLO: You only live once) and distract ourselves until we die. That sounds depressing. I think there is another alternative. Maybe we have to utilize our will to make something of our life, but I think that our purpose already exists. The template of your potential awaits your conscious activation of it. Astrology proves that to me daily.

I don’t live in an existential universe. I live in a magical universe, endowed with incomprehensible intelligence and creativity. All it takes is a shift in perception and an openness to allowing life to reveal its playful and magical side. When you invoke this intelligence, it will begin to communicate and reveal to you a larger plan through the unfolding of each moment. I think, when we’re ready, that all we need is humility and an ability to surrender to the genius of the cosmic mind. You are more than a number, a statistic or a commodity. You are a servant of the universe, and your purpose is to be who you are and shine. As you shine, you bring wholeness and blessings to your community. What a gift you truly are. 

Building Momentum: Mars Retrograde 2016

Archers in East Timor; author unknown via Wikimedia Commons. 

Mars Retrograde in Sagittarius/Scorpio April 17- June 29, 2016

Feb 17      23 Scorpio 03'       Enters Shadow

April 17    08 Sagittarius 54'  Stationary Retrograde

June 29     23 Scorpio 03'       Stationary Direct

Aug. 22    08 Sagittarius 54'   Leaves Shadow

On the days surrounding April 17, the planet Mars will appear to completely stop, turn backward for a little over two months, and then stop again to resume its normal west to east direction on June 29. This is known as a Mars retrograde cycle, and it happens roughly every two years. Unlike Mercury retrograde (occuring three times a year) Mars retrograde is a rare retrograde event, the rarest of all. The last Mars retrograde occurred from March through mid-May 2014 in the tropical sign of Libra. This year, Mars will backtrack through two signs: Sagittarius and Scorpio. That gives us two distinctly different archetypal themes through which Mars retrograde will find expression.

But first, let’s learn a little bit about Mars. Mars is associated, in Roman mythology, with the God of War. To the Greeks, it was known as Ares. But the Roman perception of Mars was more than just a war god; Mars was a source of virility; it was a life-sustaining impulse needed to bring crops to fruition. From the Roman perspective, Mars was also an agricultural guardian. The planet's bright, red color evokes a sense of passion, lust, desire, stamina, assertion, competitiveness, and very often anger, hostility, and violence. If we view the solar system as an archetypal depiction of the structure of the human psyche (the basis of astrology applied psychologically), then Mars, as an inner planet (that is to say, within the bounds of the asteroid belt, preceding the gas giants and other outer planets), it is symbolic of an archetypal construct that is close to the ego and individual identity.

But where Mars differs (from Venus and Mercury), is its ability to travel further away in the zodiac from the Sun’s position at any given time. Venus and Mercury are never too far away and are incapable of forming certain aspects or geometric relationships (such as a 90 degrees square or  180 degrees opposition) to the Sun—the symbolic core of personal identity. As an archetype, Mars has the ability to challenge the Sun, the center of gravity and heartbeat of the solar system. Mars is the first archetypal symbol of tension and confrontation. This corroborates with its ancient association with the warrior archetype and its relation (in its entropic expression) with violent or hostile compulsions.

But ultimately, Mars symbolizes our ability to defend ourselves and our right to existence. Mars embodies a philosophy that we must act, with courage and intention, to get what we want from life and to defend our right to live. From Mars’ perspective, actions are the path to freedom and the attainment of desire. But Mars is equally a source of passion and life force. Mars symbolizes vitality and vigorous life force that animates all sentient beings. For whatever lives, desires to do so, and desires to defend its right to existence. When a planet turns retrograde, first, we experience a change in the flow of archetypal energy related to that planet. In the case of Mars, our ability to defend ourselves, fight for what we want, to attain our desires, and to cultivate the will to exist goes through a shift or change of direction.

Mars is also associated with physical exercise, stamina, libido, sexual lust and the building of strength to enhance one’s capability and confidence to withstand challenges. My view of Mars retrograde is to imagine that throughout the duration of the retrograde, it’s as if you are building momentum that will, once the planet turns direct, catapult you onto a new path of decisive action. That path or direction will have the flavor of Mars and will be seasoned by the sign(s) which it retrogrades through. Throughout this process, we must step up to a new challenge and rediscover strength, courage, and stamina that we didn’t know we had.

 Mars retrograde can also work to renew our life force energy and our desire to exist. We may discover the passion for something we left behind or something we have pushed aside. The house placement of Mars in your natal horoscope will provide a deeper understanding of where this process is likely to take place and the sign it's in will flavor it.

Imagine yourself as an arrow placed against the string of a bow, and as Mars turns retrograde, that string is getting pulled back, further and further, until it reaches its point of maximum tension. And when the planet turns direct, if we have worked cooperatively and consciously with this process, we are flung forward and our efforts throughout the retrograde will carry us far into the future. This is the most practical understanding of this cycle and one that you will find most useful. Many astrologers would caution you to reconsider launching major projects or pushing forward with the initiation of anything you deem important.

I think the reasoning is that Mars retrograde is a time to build momentum and that the launching pad will ideally be when Mars has turned direct. Consider that when a planet is in retrograde, its archetypal function is going through a revision process. But the mistake is to suggest that we will not have the energy, drive or desire to push forward with important matters, and that is simply not the case. Mars is Mars, retrograde or direct. Its retrograde cycle highlights the reality that the archetypal current associated with Mars is undergoing a change in its expression, and for Mars, that expression is always related to actions. However, consider that Mars, depending on where it is in your chart, may relate to actions taken outwardly or inwardly. It takes courage to face your inner demons just as it does to face the “demons” in the outer world.

But like anything in astrology, we have free will. A Mars retrograde cycle will not force itself upon you. Often, during these times, we are responding to an inner need to change something. But the choice is yours to make. When we fail to respond to a Mars moment, it is often because we allow fear to keep us from moving forward. What scares you the most is usually something that could greatly strengthen you. Often, this cycle will reveal an opportunity or will generate a desire to accomplish something challenging, or to finally step up to something or someone you fear. It is simply the season for this to happen, and if you take this time to build up strength and a strong foundation; you’ll be tougher and more resilient in the future.

The Changing Face of Mars

This brings us to another layer of a retrograde process. Interestingly, all classical planets that turn retrograde (Mercury, Venus, Mars, Jupiter, and Saturn), have dual sign associations. Traditionally, they are said to “rule” two signs. In modern, evolutionary language, we prefer to say that these planets have a resonance or archetypal association with these signs. In the case of Mars, it is associated with Aries and Scorpio. Aries is Mars’ extroverted function, and Scorpio is its introverted function. When a planet turns retrograde, its archetypal face often reverses. We are going from Mars’ introverted expression to its extroverted function, or vice versa. 

However, this does mean that the initiation of action is hindered in some way. As I said, Mars is Mars, retrograde or direct. It is simply changing the way that it expresses itself. The Aries side of Mars places an emphasis on outward action; Aries relates to the optimum expression of willpower to initiate change, to push forward, to face stress and challenge, ideally, in healthy ways to build the strength we need to assert ourselves. The Aries side of Mars seeks new adventures outwardly in the world. The Scorpio side of Mars places emphasis on the acquisition of courage to face the inner dimensions of our own psyche and intimate lives.

As I said, it takes courage to face our inner demons. Scorpio is a sign that also relates to deep intimacy and connection with another soul—certain individuals whom we can be vulnerable enough to share ourselves with fully, to reveal parts of ourselves that we do not share with those we do not trust as deeply. This takes courage and bravery to do. It takes courage to be vulnerable and real with someone as well as ourselves. And it takes the ability to assert our will to enter that kind of deeply intimate space. Intimate relationships can be a battle ground, just as the outer world can be.

If we have been primarily outward prior to Mars turning retrograde—seeking new, external stress and adventures, fighting for freedom and independence, then Mars retrograde can indicate a time where we may need to turn inward and channel our Mars energy into the intimate chasms of our personal lives. Conversely, if we’ve been in that deeply intimate space prior to the retrograde, we may find ourselves switching to a focus upon challenges and stress seeking in the outer world. The retrograde will change the face of that Mars function. And as we build momentum throughout the retrograde, we will be placed on to the pathway of a new phase of Mars’ expression as it transits the zodiac.

Karma and Serendipity

There is a curious association with Mars and Venus retrograde cycles relating to profound shifts and turning points in our personal lives and relationships. The rule of thumb here, however, is that often this is most notable when the retrograde planet stations on an angle of our chart, or a significant planet or focal point. The station is the degree of the zodiac where that planet will stop and change direction (either move from direct to retrograde or retrograde to direct). In the case of this particular Mars retrograde cycle, Mars will station and turn retrograde at 8 degrees of Sagittarius. It will station and move direct at 23 degrees of Scorpio.

Look to those areas of your chart. If an angle (the first, fourth, seventh, or tenth house cusps), or if a significant planet is placed there (or in the general vicinity, within 1 to 2 degrees, possibly more), then this particular cycle will likely be more pronounced for you. Also, if the retrograde happens to take place in an angular house (first, fourth, seventh, or tenth), it may also be more meaningful. Venus retrograde can often correlate with a period of serendipitous encounters with individuals that end up having a major impact on our lives. We often look back on these people as having profoundly inspired us in some way or were involved in a major shifting of our values and priorities.

Sometimes, these relationships last a long time and develop in complexity. This is, of course, because Venus is the most potent astrological symbol for relationships. Mars retrograde, however, carries a different archetypal function, due to its ability to challenge and break free of the Sun, which carries an association with relationships. In its Scorpionic face, Mars connects us to experiences of deep intimacy. Thus, we associate Mars with life force, libido, and sexual energy. Mars’ sexual expression is related solely to the act of intercourse, typically related to the release of primal, sexual energy. Put simply, Mars is our desire for coitus—but not particularly lovemaking in the romanticized sense.

Consider that when Mars turns retrograde, we are revising the way that we assert ourselves, and how we go about getting what we want—attaining our desires. Mars turning retrograde in a sensitive zone of your personal horoscope can indicate a time where you must defend yourself against someone or a situation, break free of situations that limit your boundaries, or finally recover the courage to take action and make some much-needed change in your life. This can often involve serendipitous encounters with others, or circumstances that involve you shifting in such a way to catalyze the initiation of action. These can be significant moments in our lives where we can forge new pathways and set ourselves on a new course of action.

Retrogrades also take us back to situations or experiences from the past. We often encounter individuals that we’ve met before in this lifetime. From the evolutionary viewpoint and hypothesis, most, if not everything in life, is the result of our karma. Thus, many encounters may, in fact be the residue of some past experience from a previous lifetime. With Mars retrograde, we may be brought back to a situation where we must defend ourselves or muster the courage to overcome it or to finally take some action we didn’t take before. And this may be particularly significant if Mars retrograde is hitting you in a personal way.

Sagittarius/Scorpio

From April 17 to May 27, Mars will retrograde through Sagittarius. Signs flavor or add a certain texture to anything placed inside of them. During this portion of Mars retrograde, there will be an accentuation of the things in your life that have become too predictable and habitual. Mars may ask that you take a risk and stretch yourself beyond what is too familiar. Sagittarius seeks adventure and exotic, foreign experiences. It deals with adventures in the real world as well as adventures in the mind. There is also a philosophical, spiritual or ideological nature to Sagittarius. The momentum that you build during this cycle will likely correlate with these themes.

Perhaps you will find yourself thinking in much larger or abstract ways. Maybe you decide to travel somewhere that seems extremely familiar—a foreign place you may have been before (in another lifetime?). During this portion of the cycle, you are rediscovering the courage and strength needed to make your life more interesting and inclusive of perspectives that challenge your current worldview. It’s time to face your fear of the unfamiliar. However, try to remain practical and mindful of reality. Don’t confuse your need for new adventure with the need to throw all safety and caution to the wind. Don’t leap without looking first. Healthy reality testing is needed!

From May 27 to June 29, Mars retrograde will enter Scorpio. As I said before, it takes courage to face our inner darkness. During this phase of the cycle, you are gathering the momentum needed to make meaningful connections. You are finding the strength to step up to new challenges surrounding intimacy and honesty. Scorpio is an archetype that deals with everything we culturally subjugate or attempt to deny—often by making fun of it. Death is one of those things, and so is sex. Imagine that throughout this portion of the cycle, you need to rediscover your ability to step into that dark morass of repressed subject matter. Whatever new challenges you take on, will likely feel uncomfortable and may ask you to reach beyond certain boundaries.

But if you take on the challenge, you will be set on a new course of deeper self-knowledge. You’ll find that from here on out, you’ll have strengthened your capacity to be honest with yourself and with others. There may be intense experiences and encounters you avoided in the past but need to face now. There may be particularly “karmic” situations with individuals coming into your life. There may be a need to release pent-up or repressed desires. But try not to lose perspective. Don’t get too caught up in your own issues or inner darkness that it makes you moody and depressed. Come up for some air when you need to. But if you keep up the momentum, this will be a highly transformative cycle. 

In conclusion, don't confuse a retrograde for a time of inaction. It's simply not true! And when it comes to Mars, inaction is the last thing you should consider. A retrograde cycle is a time of transition and often an opportunity to make some kind of breakthrough. It may not be the most significant moment of your life (it happens every two years), but if it triggers a potent portion of your horoscope, it just might be. This is time to build new strength and momentum. It's like positioning yourself before a great wave of immense force. But you have to be willing do this by responding to your desires for change. As always within the paradigm of astrology that I practice, trust and follow those impulses and desires for positive change. If you do, you'll find yourself stronger and readier for the what lies before you. 

The Aquarian New Year: New Moon in Aquarius 2016

Lightning within the cloud illuminates the entire cloud blanket  over the Mojave Desert during an electrical rain storm; photo by Jessie Eastland.

New Moon @ 19 Aquarius 16'

February 8, 2016

9:39 AM Eastern

6:39 AM Pacific

When the Moon reaches its conjunction with the Sun each month, there’s a sense of something falling away and yet something unknown stirring in the darkness. Your energy may feel lower than usual, or you may find yourself feeling introspective and reflective. A New Moon is often perceived to be the monthly moment of new beginnings, and that’s pretty much true, but it’s also a time to recharge and reset yourself for the new cycle to develop. From the remnants of what has fallen away, emerges a new potential—a potential that is unseen, invisible and imbued with mystery.

Every beginning feels this way. The energy has yet to fully manifest; there may be hesitation and caution as well as an uncertainty regarding what lies ahead. A New Moon is filled with anticipation, however subtly you experience this. This month’s New Moon in tropical Aquarius may feel like the official start of the New Year, considering Mercury’s retrograde cycle occurring at the beginning of January. To the Chinese, each year, the Aquarian New Moon is actually the official start of the Chinese New Year (this year, the year of the Monkey).

Perhaps this year, we should join them in celebrating this New Moon and focusing our intention upon it as the start of something new. With Mercury direct and several “harmonious” aspects occurring between planets this month, February appears to be a good time for new beginnings in myriad shapes and forms, a time of opportunity and creative potential. Aquarius is an interesting sign because, in western astrology, we associate it with two planets of a very different archetypal nature: classically, Saturn and the modern outer planet Uranus.

What’s interesting is that these two planets are completely antithetical archetypes. Saturn encourages conformity while Uranus is inclined towards rebellion. Thus, Aquarius is a sign wrought with inner tension with intentions that are seemingly at cross purposes. We also associate Aquarius with the scientific paradigm on one end, which encourages peer collaboration. There’s a need within Aquarius to “get along” and follow the accepted procedure to maintain social harmony and cohesion. On the other end, Aquarius can also express itself as a revolutionary requiring the full, authentic expression of its eccentricity and innate genius.

The Saturnian side of Aquarius requires an acceptance of social rules and collective agreements. The Uranian side of Aquarius requires one to break those rules to forge new pathways. But when we reflect on this process, we come to an understanding that Aquarius isn’t necessarily a contradiction, but an essential process representing two ends of a spectrum needed to sustain human evolution. So, maybe you feel that way with this New Moon, that there’s a need for freedom and a need to embrace your individuality, alongside a need to conform to something to get along in the context of a community or group of individuals.

On the Uranian side, Aquarius may impulse you towards the start of a new pathway. Change is in the air with this lunation, and if you're conscious of this, you can begin taking steps in the direction of increased freedom and autonomy, but know that whatever steps you do take, will require some immense challenges. The planet Mars falls in a 90 degrees (square) aspect to this lunation from the sign of Scorpio. Whenever Mars enters the picture, you may be impulsed to face your fears, muster up some courage, and prepare for a battle. But a square is also symbolic of a much-needed push to generate the momentum.

In Scorpio, that battle is a challenge to integrate yourself communally and socially while maintaining a need to be truly authentic, as well as the need to cultivate honesty. The problem with certain social agreements is that they often overshadow the authentic dimensions of human experience and subjugate the expression of primal human needs. And then, sometimes, when we’re too focused on being completely authentic and real we’re unable to peacefully function in many social environments. So, this lunation presents the need for compromise and asks whether you can find space for both of these areas of life experience without one dominating the other.

Consider this New Moon as a time to step up to a subtle challenge to successfully integrate yourself within a community in a way that's not overtly threatening or too intense, but also in a way that doesn’t completely abolish your right to be human, your right to be yourself.  Consider also, that this New Moon falls on the midpoint of Venus and Chiron which speaks about shifting attitudes in our relationships. Aquarian relationships are often surface level and require a cordial demeanor or approach. Scorpionic relationships are far more intimate and “dirty”. How do we meet both needs within the context of our relationships? That appears to be the challenge this month, a challenge that will require a change of perception, as well as a change of heart. 

Facing What Scares You: Venus and the Uranus/Pluto Square

Transverse of a ledge in a Canadian/Polish attempt to climb Khunyang Chhish, Pakistan; photo by Raphael Slawinski, June 2006.

On Feb 5 through 6, the planet Venus, accompanied by the Moon, will pass through the slowly fading wake of the Pluto/Uranus square. The 90 degrees aspect between Uranus and Pluto is still active in the collective psyche, slowly dissipating, but still within approximately one degree of separation. Look back at the past several years since this cycle began. Uranus and Pluto came into exact contact in 2012, but the energy was building a year or so before then. To gain some perspective of what happens collectively when Uranus and Pluto come together, reflect upon the late 1960’s and the dynamic cultural and political reformation that was birthed from these powerful outer planets aligning in conjunction.

Uranus seeks to liberate and accentuate authentic, individual expression. Pluto seeks to accentuate the shadowy chasm of the collective psyche, bringing to consciousness suppressed, psychological elements to ultimately transform the personal self and collective identity. We could say that Pluto seeks to annihilate/transform the very ego Uranus seeks to bring to apotheosis. In other words, in times such as these, we each undergo deep personal transformation which is mirrored in the outer world as a rapid cultural and societal restructuring.

Pluto reveals the content that has been subjugated and ignored by our society (or the personal self/ego), and Uranus seeks to integrate those elements to ultimately reform the current, established order, but both planets work on each other.We could say that what Uranus seeks to innovate or liberate, Pluto attempts to provide with a greater purpose and application beyond the personal self. What that might feel like on an individual level, given the nature of the square, is the call to bring your individuality to some greater service beyond your own self- interests through hard work and the overcoming of immense obstacles.

And Pluto always demands deep, inner work. It demands, often, a dark night of the soul. Needless to say, this has been a tumultuous period of time, especially for those of us with significant planets in Aries, Cancer, Libra, or Capricorn. On Feb 5, the planet Venus will conjoin Pluto in Capricorn. With the Moon, Mercury, Venus and Pluto clustering in Capricorn, you may find yourself feeling a bit more determined, focused, disciplined, and self-reflective. This is a brief moment in time where you have an opportunity to align your priorities and to transcend those habits or behaviors you may feel are holding you back from some greater purpose or mission.

But remember that you have free will. That means that you can always stay where you are. But if you do that, you’re likely to experience Pluto’s often frightening and uncomfortable dark night of the soul. You’re likely to feel, perhaps, a fleeting moment of meaninglessness and depression. Such feelings arise from within the body as a message from the soul: “You are capable of more than what you currently perceive yourself to be.” Venus, on one end, is a “social” impulse. It seeks to extend outward to build bridges of social exchange. On another end, Venus symbolizes what we project value upon. Either way, Venus is about projection.

As Venus conjoins with Pluto, you may find that over the next few days you have an opportunity to see deeper into your projections. What lies at the root of your current desires? Is what you desire really for your greater good? Will it lead to liberation, change, and transformation, or are you projecting value upon something unaware of what you’re actually after? But, here’s the trick. Pluto will always get you. No matter what you go after, you can’t avoid the shadowy void of the unconscious. Whether in your dreams/nightmares, what have you, these next few days will lead you to a potential realization of your bigger purpose, mission, or destiny, if only a glimpse. Maybe you learn that the easy way, by willingly facing what scares you.

Or maybe you learn the hard way, choosing to ignore uncomfortable truths, but finding it anyway through external conflict or fleeting existential angst. In Capricorn, it’s time to get serious and choose to consciously liberate yourself from suppressive circumstances. That may not require direct action. It may merely require your willingness to look deeper at what impulses you right now and what you’re trying to avoid. Look soberly into your frustration. It’s trying to tell you something. It’s trying to bring awareness to those issues that have been ignored. And when you do that, when you bring light to the darkness, you’ll have a clearer strategy and a readiness to charge ahead. 

Prioritize and Re-energize: Leo Full Moon 2016

Hieroglyphics inside a temple at Dier el-Bahri on the west bank of the Nile opposite the city of Luxor, Egypt; photo by Aligatorek via Wikimedia Commons.

Full Moon @ 3 Leo 29'
January 23, 2016
8:46 PM Eastern
5:46 PM Pacific

As the current lunar cycle comes to its full expression and manifestation, Mercury retrograde is gradually winding down, stationing direct (changing from backward to forward motion) just two days later, on Jan. 25. The stations of Mercury appear to be the most potent times of the retrograde, where technical glitches and sudden changes of plans often accumulate. Be mindful of this, because the days surrounding the station can often feel a little more frustrating than usual. It’s best to just roll with the punches and stay flexible—even if things are little lopsided and out of sorts.

Venus also just moved into tropical Capricorn, and Mercury will be stationing while in a conjunction with Pluto in this sign. All of this favors you getting a little more serious about some things in your life. Maybe you feel more focused, or simply aware of the need to prioritize your activities and the amount of time spent on certain relationships. Mercury conjunct Pluto can feel a little heavy as if certain fears and buried wounds are coming up to the surface more than they usually would. Mercury stationing on Pluto can be a time to really consider how these darker elements are playing out in your life, either through deeper reflection or talking it out.

Those conversations, if you choose to have them, will likely be heavy and complex, but may have lasting value. The Full Moon occurs in the sign of Leo, naturally opposing the Sun, but also opposing the asteroid Pallas Athena in the sign of Aquarius. In Greek mythology, Athena was a warrior goddess who emerged from Zeus’ head; she embodies wisdom, strategy and problem solving. I liken Athena to the ability to solve complex puzzles. Perhaps this Full Moon brings about an enthusiasm to come up with creative solutions.

Leo is a fire sign with an “extroverted” nature. That doesn’t mean that you’ll feel outgoing on the Full Moon (although that is likely), but simply more motivated to take action in the external world in some playful way. This is amplified by the rather wide square that the Full Moon axis (the 180 degrees opposition of Sun and Moon) receives from Mars conjunct Juno in the sign of Scorpio. That means that this Full Moon forms a t-square, a structure of considerable tension that motivates and challenges you to make some kind of change.

Juno conjunct Mars can indicate facing the truth about certain commitments you’ve made in your life. What fears do you have in relation to them? What kinds of commitments have you made to yourself? And how can you go about honoring them and staying on track? While Leo likes to play and express itself, it isn’t completely free to let loose entirely. You may find that your playtime needs to fit within a structure, modified by the priorities currently on the table.

When you are really pursuing something meaningful and important to you, you’ll find that the creative juice needed to follow through will bring you much joy and pleasure. As always, the brightness of the Full Moon brings to light certain realizations. For you, that may be the energy needed to strategically follow your bliss, whatever that may be. The Full Moon is a time of higher, increased energy, and in Leo, that energy can feel enthusiastic and vibrant. The tension offered by this lunation may be just what is needed to re-energize you. 

A Subtle Change: Venus Square Jupiter

Historic Eco Pad Yatra in the Himalayas from Manali to Ladakh in 2009; Photo by Drukpa Publications Pvt. Ltd.

On Jan 17 and 18, the planet Venus will square (make a 90 degrees angle) Jupiter in tropical Virgo from the sign of Sagittarius. Both planets are seen to have a positive effect on one another, as classical “benefics”. However, Jupiter’s presence in Virgo and the tension of the square makes this a slightly uncomfortable integration, but one that may be easier to resolve. Venus in Sagittarius highlights a longing for expansion and new experience, boundless freedom to pursue its desires.

Yet, Jupiter in Virgo must contend with practical realities. But, in our logical understanding, we must realize that for an adventure to truly succeed, we need to be prepared. You wouldn’t attempt to climb the Himalayas without the proper training or equipment. Well, maybe you would, but I can assure you that would be rather stupid. And conversely, self-improvement needs some higher philosophy to guide it, some lofty aspiration or ideal, otherwise, the routine becomes monotonous and meaningless.

So, Venus is the ideal adventure or new experience and Jupiter is the need to realistically organize some things to get there. The good news, something in your life is just so boring and devoid of passion that it pushes you to make a change, to begin looking to a new horizon and to pull some details together to get you to the mountaintop. Jupiter recently turned retrograde, and thus you will either need to extend yourself outward to seek help and guidance from those wiser or more knowledgeable than yourself, or you may feel the need to step back and reflect a bit before really moving forward.

But, squares are all about taking action. Dissatisfaction is your guiding light. Follow that urge to change something up in your life, maybe something small or something big—either way, it will have a large impact, because that’s just how Jupiter does things. If you don’t, you’ll probably find yourself nagging, nitpicking and complaining about how boring and dull everything is. Or, maybe you’ll get into an unnecessary ideological debate over petty points of conflict. Or, maybe this aspect will pass without making much of statement for you, but will still require your participation in some subtle way. And on that subtle level, you’ll need to express this; you’ll need to make a change.  

Strategic Renewal: New Moon in Capricorn 2016

Ozys (Capricorn) in the twelve painting cycle Zodiakas (Zodiac); by Mikalojus Konstantinas Clurlionis, 1907.

New Moon @ 19 Capricorn 13'
January 9, 2016
8:30 PM Eastern
5:30 PM Pacific

On Jan. 9 the current lunar cycle renews in the tropical sign of Capricorn. A New Moon can be a time of lower energy, a time to turn inward and recharge, but especially occurring in Capricorn and alongside Mercury recently stationing retrograde, a call inward toward solitude or some focused activity is supported. The New Moon’s wide conjunction to Pluto tends to add some seriousness and density to this lunation, which can prompt you to set priorities and discriminate between various activities you may be juggling. Capricorn is an archetype of focused determination and the mastery of the will over the “primal” impulses of the human psyche.

That doesn’t mean that Capricorn is all work and no play, or that it’s a sign devoid of pleasure; it merely represents the much needed braking mechanism within the psyche that channels primal energies into consciously directed activities of a more complex or sophisticated nature. Capricorn is a symbol of the triumph of willpower over appetite. Of course, when allowed too much expression, Capricorn can manifest as power tripping or an attempt to control to the point of limiting creative spontaneity and chance. The New Moon’s vicinity with Pluto highlights the “shadow” of Capricorn, especially on a collective level.

The dark side of conservatism is a resistance to progressive change and innovation. The dark side of too much structure is an inability to have commerce with trickster—the one who frees and liberates humanity from soul-deadening systems. Mercury just recently moved back into Capricorn, and thus it appears to be highlighting the need to break free of time-serving tendencies, to renovate your routines and to find new, progressive ways to alter your daily life. Jupiter, which recently turned retrograde, also makes a trine (120 degrees aspect) from Virgo while aligned with the North Node of the Moon.

Jupiter points us to an opportunity to seek new experiences or adventures; or conversely, a need to retreat to recharge one’s soul inwardly. Thus, this New Moon correlates with a sense of changing direction in some capacity, whether big or small. Pluto directs consciousness to the bottom line: your soul’s purpose for incarnation, and the unavoidable reality of death, decay, and entropy of everything that you create or achieve in life. And Capricorn’s higher message is that to see anything substantial manifest in the world, you must learn to cultivate self-discipline and determination.

This New Moon may prompt you to get on with something, or to address some serious, pressing matters relating to the need to move beyond stagnation. It’s likely that if you look closely, there’s something that you’re doing robotically, without passion, emotion or excitation. You may need to shift your attention or your direction entirely if you are to change anything. But that requires taking an honest look at yourself and your life to peer through the holes in the system you’ve set up for yourself. I don’t personally think that we’ve come here to become automatons. And I don’t think you have either.

The great part of Capricorn energy is that it’s excellent at devising a game plan. Use this lunar cycle to conjure an effective strategy that will lead you to change. There may be some things you’ll have to sacrifice to get there, and there may be some desires or impulses you’ll have to hold back, but in the end, it might just be worth it. This lunar cycle may feel a little serious, but remember that Mercury, the trickster, is retrograde. It will help you along if you can release your grip and open yourself to the possibility of chance encounters. You never know what you might stumble upon and how it might significantly alter your strategy. 

Prioritizing the Possibilities: Venus Conjunct Saturn 2016

An image of Saturn with Venus as a tiny white dot just above the white streak in Saturn's G ring; image taken by NASA's Cassini Spacecraft in March 2013; image by NASA/JPL-Caltech/Space Science Institute.

Just before the New Moon occurs in tropical Capricorn on Jan. 9, the planets Venus and Saturn will conjoin (make a perceived alignment) in Sagittarius on Jan. 8. While not immediately apparent, these two planets have more in common than one would initially think. Both Venus and Saturn teach us about discrimination, but in very different ways. Venus being a symbol of the desire for establishing relationships and the value of other people requires discrimination—thus someone gets left out and rejected. Saturn often correlates with the necessity to prioritize our time and energy which requires discrimination in the sense that under a Saturn time we must reject certain experiences in favor of those more aligned with our higher priorities.

Both archetypes require that we say no from time to time. They embody a sense of exclusion. Another commonality lies in both archetypes desire to establish connection and comraderie—Venus on a personal level (through Libra) and Saturn on a communal level (through Aquarius). In order to find out where we belong, we need to have an awareness of where we don’t. As Venus and Saturn come together in Sagittarius, you may find yourself focused a bit more on the need for discrimination, having to choose between certain experiences to get clear about your priorities in the moment.

Sagittarius highlights the psychic impulse toward the seeking of new adventure or experiences which disrupt the safe and routine. Under the influence of Sagittarius, there are endless possibilities and opportunities awaiting discovery, but Saturn comes in to limit your focus to allow time to prioritize some things over others. With the heavy emphasis of planets currently in Capricorn, you may find that you require more solitude for reflection, focus. and discipline. However, be careful not to exclude others from the conversation entirely. You may need some input.

Both Venus and Saturn make a square (a 90 degrees angle) to Neptune in Pisces. In its home sign, Neptune appears to have certain dominance in the narrative—that is again, a pull toward isolation for reflection and the acquisition of insight or inspiration. But on the shadow end, Neptune in Pisces can tempt you to avoid the hard work of Saturn through escapism and avoidance of reality.  Saturn through Sagittarius is challenging your faith in the universe—your faith in a higher purpose and meaning for your life and existence. To work positively with both Saturn and Neptune, you must find time to disconnect without complete avoidance of the real world, and without putting off the hard work that Saturn requires of you.

So, just before the New Moon in Capricorn on Jan. 9, you may notice that your attention is placed on prioritizing new experiences and possibilities for your life while being mindful that both solitude and social exchange have their place in the process. Also, be mindful of the temptation to completely disengage from what you need to focus on in the moment. Are there certain distractions you need to eliminate to make more time for the acquisition of clarity in regards to your purpose? Make time for yourself, as well as the people that really matter, and you’ll be able to integrate this aspect successfully and holistically. 

From Dissatisfaction to Action: Jupiter Retrograde in Virgo 2016

Mercury accompanying his father, Jupiter, on a Journey; image from Journeys Through Bookland: A New and Original Plan for Reading Applied to the World's Best Literature for Children, copyright 1922; via Wikimedia Commons.

When planets turn retrograde, they change faces. All of the inner planets that turn retrograde (Mercury, Venus, Mars, Jupiter, and Saturn) have dual rulerships; they’re associated with two tropical zodiac signs. When a planet turns retrograde, it changes the flow of energy in the quadrant of the horoscope that the planet is currently moving through. Looked at another way, the face of that planet switches from the archetype of one sign association to the other.

Jupiter has a resonance (or rulership) with the signs Sagittarius and Pisces. Their common planetary ruler gives them a common ground, but these two signs are also in direct tension via the square (90 degrees) relationship to one another in the zodiac. The tension arises from the extroverted quality of Sagittarius and the introverted nature of Pisces. Their common ground arises from their shared mutable modality—they both carry qualities of flexible adaptability to a changing environment. Both signs are better equipped to “go with flow” and cultivate spontaneity.

But Sagittarius, a fire sign, is an archetype of active seeking and questing “out there” in the world while Pisces symbolizes a psychic impulse to withdraw through meditative or “inward” forms of perception. So, Jupiter’s transit through any sign or house in our horoscope will correlate with either the Sagittarian (active, extroverted expression) or the Piscean (passive, introverted expression) archetypes. Virgo correlates with gaining competence and skill through experience and you can do that in an extroverted or introverted way. 

Virgo is classically considered to be Jupiter’s place of detriment—it is a sign which has qualities quite foreign to Jupiter. Thus, Jupiter’s transit through this sign can feel a bit awkward or uncomfortable in the sense that Virgo’s attention to detail and practical realities are counter to Jupiter’s expansive, big picture perspective as well as its lofty, spiritual idealism. However, when worked with consciously, this transit symbolizes a time where you can make certain ideals practical and useful, and how you can work to make your daily routines more interesting or better-rounded. Both archetypes, though conflicting, have much to teach and acquire from each other.

So, Jupiter’s dual expression impulses us to either actively seek opportunities for growth and new experience or to turn inward and receive guidance or inspiration from within. Jupiter is changing faces, and it is going to correlate with the changing face of Jupiter within you. If you have some advanced knowledge of transits through the houses of your horoscope, then look to where Jupiter is currently stationing (where it is stopping to turn backwards in the sign of Virgo). If you know roughly where Virgo falls in your horoscope, you’ll have more information about how this will manifest for you.

So, from Jan. 7 to May 9 of this year, your inner Jupiter will switch from an extroverted to an introverted expression or vice versa. There are times when you are settled with what you have or what you have accomplished, but over time, you become bored and dissatisfied and desire some new experience. That is always a response to your inner Jupiter when it moves from its introverted to its extroverted expression. Conversely, there are times when you are out accomplishing or experiencing much and you need to retreat and recharge your soul.

Check in with yourself. Do you need to step back a bit and do some soul-searching, or do you need to seek a new opportunity that will enhance your life and free you from those daily routines that have outlived their usefulness for your greater purpose? And remember that at the heart of evolutionary astrology, is the understanding that the choice is always yours to make. Your desires and impulses for change are only suggestions from your soul from which the self must choose to respond.

But, as Carl Jung so succinctly stated, “When an inner process is not made conscious, it appears outside as fate”. If you feel like the life is being sucked out of you from something, Jupiter always arrives to renew your passion either through inward soul recharging or the outward seeking of new adventures. And dissatisfaction is always how Jupiter initially presents itself. To avoid the sometimes unpleasant or uncomfortable fate, this may be a time to discover the source of your dissatisfaction and to do something about it. 

Facing the Bottom Line: Sun Conjunct Pluto 2016

An asana from the Introspection Series of Andhakara Yoga; photo by Andhakara via Wikimedia Commons.

Shortly after Mercury turns stationary retrograde (pauses in the sky and then begins to move “backwards”), the Sun will conjoin (make a perceived alignment) with the planet Pluto in the tropical sign of Capricorn. The Sun’s transit through Capricorn each year correlates with a time of “getting serious” about matters in our lives—whether through intense introspection or a general review of the year we left behind. The Gregorian calendar (our synthetic calendar with no relation to natural time) begins and ends in Capricorn. Perhaps this was some unwitting “conspiracy” to keep western society locked in that “eye on the prize” mentality; or perhaps it’s merely a reflection of what we value culturally.

Capricorn is a sign, in its highest expression, that seeks structure, discipline and focus to achieve greatness. It embodies the qualities needed for productivity and achievement. And yet, Capricorn, interestingly, is a yin (“feminine”) sign—though its cardinal modality gives it assertiveness and drive. But primarily, being a yin and introverted archetype, Capricorn symbolizes a psychic impulse toward solitude. Any public figure will tell you how valuable such a thing is to recharge. To achieve something requires that we distance ourselves from distraction and outer stimulus. However we experience this each year, the Sun in Capricorn has us all prioritizing and setting goals.

With the New Year, this manifests as the setting of resolutions, and Capricorn is always supportive of that (probably ecstatic over it). As the Sun joins Pluto on Jan. 5, along with Mercury’s station, you may come to a point of stasis in your life (momentarily). All that busy chatter and hectic turmoil from the holidays are behind you, and suddenly you find that your mind is able to slow down. What a gift! Take it in. Take a break, however you can. Turn inward. Allow yourself to sink deep into yourself over the next few days. Don’t you deserve that? Maybe you’ve set some resolutions, but it’s possible you lack the momentum at this moment.

Don’t let that discourage you. Like I said, the New Year is some contrived thing. If you aren’t on your way up that mountain because the week begun and it’s the New Year, it doesn’t mean that you’re lazy, or doomed to fail, but that you’re simply responsive to the messages from your soul. And what is your soul saying to you? The only way to find out is to listen and take it in. Take your time. Mercury is changing face. You may find that over the next three weeks you'll go from an extroverted to an introverted state, or vice versa. But at the moment, you’re crossing a boundary, and at the threshold is Pluto—god of the underworld.

Pluto and Capricorn like to cut out all the crap and the superfluous. These archetypes point you to that bottom line. For you, what is it? In order to get from A to B, requires that you have some understanding of where you currently are and where you intend to go. Everything in between will surprise you. But those two points are essential to understand for any intention to have clarity and to succeed. But, the Sun is also coming to contact Uranus, via a square (90 degree angle). You may be thirsty for freedom and less inclined to conformity. That aspect will be exact on Jan. 7—though its presence will be felt through its aspectual orb to Pluto and the Sun. Both Pluto and Uranus are also involved in the New Moon on Jan. 9.

So, maybe, you haven’t missed the deadline. The Moon is waning, and Mercury is stationing. Your energy is lower than usual. Reset your focus and intentions toward the New Moon, and climb the new lunar cycle toward success and the manifestation of your goals. These days before the weekend, use this as a time to simply recharge and slow down.  If you try to push too hard now, you’re going to come up against a heck of a lot of resistance and obstacles. And that will only discourage you. After the New Moon passes, that building lunar energy will carry you much further. Take some pressure off and simply be with yourself and there you will realize your true priorities—there you will face the bottom line. 

Mercury Retrograde: A Deeper, Esoteric Understanding (Video)

In this video, I explain the deeper, esoteric meaning of the Mercury Retrograde cycle through the lens of evolutionary astrology (and pretty much everything you need to know).