A Break in the Clouds: Gemini New Moon 2020

Photo by Фтещт Нфтлщмнш / CC BY-SA (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0)

New Moon @ 02 degrees Gemini 04’

May 22, 2020

10:39 AM PST

1:39 PM EST

With the Gemini archetype dominating the astrological landscape, the pace of thoughts, ideas, or experiences can appear accelerated. It's easy to feel overwhelmed. Gemini emphasizes diversity applied to the variety of life's constructs and manifestations. In other words, Gemini's fate is encountering multiple ways of seeing or doing things that can lead to well-roundedness as much as confusion.

Strong Gemini individuals will deeply understand this. For those not natally attuned to the Gemini frequency, see the value in sometimes scattering your attention--a strategy that can help you see possibilities you'd miss with a myopic focus. Meandering your way through this New Moon is a good starting point, but that can be frustrating when wanting or needing to pursue a specific objective.

Keep in mind that Venus appears to be in retrograde through Gemini alongside this New Moon. Venus is conjoining the New Moon ruler, Mercury, too. Also, Venus/Mercury is square Neptune. On the surface, we can interpret this to suggest caution with information, data, and perceptions. Be hyper-aware of obfuscation as a natural synchronistic correlation. Use that awareness to take your time with this lunation in stepping out and gathering knowledge and experience.

A Gemini New Moon can relate to an impulsive desire to break out or attempt multi-tasking beyond what's healthy (or possible). Neptune's square can also correlate with an abundance of distraction or as feeling like mundane issues or concerns are increasingly dis-interesting. Neptune pressures us to open ourselves to new worlds, dreams, and fantasies, making it hard to attend to the fact-based reality we typically reside in.

Indeed, Mars' square to this New Moon can correlate with increased frustration over specific targets evading your grasp or focus. Impulsivity is also enhanced, but desirable objectives may seem ambiguous. What can you do with this subjugated energy and desire? New Moon's are natural moments to reset, refocus, and start on a new creative direction. Use this time mindfully to channel your mental and spiritual strength toward fleshing out this inundation of stimulation and possibilities. And transform uncertainty or fear into curiosity.

Relationships are likely to play a significant part in this New Moon, too. We tend to gather information or ideas from other humans, so that part is obvious. Yet, consider how Venus' retrograde suggests that heart perception is significant, such as news or information that changes how we feel about someone or something specific. The past (as in past relationships, connections, ideas, or experiences) might come into sharper focus here, seeking integration, closure, or future elaboration.

Beyond the overt idealism that Neptune brings to the surface, there is also the potential for mystical, visionary, and transpersonal experiences. There is equally the possibility to slow down the pace of events, thoughts, or activities, and find amid the flurry, a break in the clouds revealing brief moments of something ineffable. And there lies the difficulty in fully articulating whatever may be emerging for many of us. Being adaptable in the moment, in whatever way it shows up, is the key.

The Heart of Your Perceptions: Venus Retrograde 2020

View from Wilcox Viewpoint, Jasper National Park. Photo by Fresh.waffles / CC BY-SA (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0)

Venus Retrograde in tropical Gemini

May 12 -June 24

Venus Stationary Retrograde @ 21 degrees Gemini 50’-May 12/13

Venus Stationary Direct @ 05 degrees Gemini 20’-June 24/25

Ambiguity, endless curiosity, or a tendency toward a short-lived attention span are strong qualities infused in the sign of Gemini. And any event here is destined to pull us in several directions. So what might we anticipate with Venus, the goddess of love, beauty, and rapport appearing to turn retrograde for her forty-day/night descent and rebirth in the sign of the twins?

The title of this article says a lot. Unusually, I thought of it before I started writing. What is the heart of your perceptions? It's an interesting question. Firstly, how are our perceptions made? That's also a complicated question. Let's start here. Much of our perceptions are culturally constructed and thus socially defined. Some of that definition may be permanent, but pieces can be deconstructed willingly or through shattering life experiences. Secondly, many of those perceptions are biological, and for a logical reason.

We might think that we're autonomous beings moving freely through space, and then after an intense, mind-altering experience, that belief is suddenly a comical passing thought. We are likely far more than our perceptions allow us to believe. Yet, perceptions are important, and they guide us through our waking life to make sense of the world and survive. Venus is ruled both by an air and earth sign, and yet it has a strong emotional dimension.

Part of Venus' function is the ability for heart perception, that which lies in the domain of Libra and Taurus. We can process information intellectually but also emotionally. What is happening when we fall in love or while we blissfully gaze over a field of wildflowers or into a waterfall? Those experiences are beyond rational and cognitive processing. Something deeper is going on. Maybe we're perceiving through the soul, and yes, we're also under the influence of biological programming.

Venusian experiences involve fate and a sense of being overpowered, not by something intrusive, but alluring and attractive. Sure, we can resist, but how we feel about it is not volitional. We can't choose nor control what captivates our heart, the things, people, or experiences that invoke beauty and infatuation. Can we fall in love with an idea, a worldview, or a voice? Can we find ourselves incessantly attracted to a mind that pulls us in and endlessly captivates our attention? Of course. Venus in Gemini is like that, and her retrograde here involves themes of a changing of heart concerning perceptual constructions.

And here are some Venus retrograde basics: When any planet appears to turn retrograde, it gets louder! During Venus retrograde, the heart volume gets turned up, and we can't avoid noticing it, but we can undoubtedly deny or repress it. Sometimes that's a helpful thing, especially when the object of desire or attraction might harm us in some way. There are many people, experiences, or substances we would be better off resisting. Only wisdom can guide us there.

Sometimes, the heart's message interferes with our programmed perceptions about how we have "beautifully" constructed our worldview (or the one constructed for us). The heart can get in the way of our plans, beliefs, and expectations. Sometimes, that too is a helpful thing to redirect our life path to be more aligned with the heart. When Venus is retrograde, the heart might emerge as a welcomed relief, an uncomfortable inconvenience, or something in between. In whatever form it shows up, it would be wise to pay attention and use the following several weeks (until roughly June 25) to let life change our way of perceiving and understanding.

Anticipate serendipitous soulful dialogue, the continuation of an unfinished conversation, or the emergence of an irresistible idea, thought, or perspective. Allow the fates to work their magic in the ensuing weeks to change your mind and potentially create a healthful flow between what you're feeling, saying, and thinking. Might the heart pit you between two equally desirous options or possibilities? How do you resolve that conflict? Do you pick one over the other, or find a middle way?

There is tension in this cycle, and the need to resolve dichotomies. Venus is square Neptune, another fate inducer, but extra transpersonal. The combination of Venus and Neptune is even more overpowering and also highly idealistic. The best Venus retrograde in Gemini advice? Slow down. Listen carefully, and don't act hastily. Allow your feelings and impressions to change you from the inside first. There is a tendency to sample a lot of options and to feel things out, but be careful.

There is some obfuscation potential with Neptune, the tendency to idealize and fantasize to the extreme. So, be wary of hastily pushing a relational narrative in either direction or emptying your bank account because of a sudden, glamorous vision. Some of these dreams and fantasies may be as fleeting as they are interesting. Yet, Neptune's positive path, it's "higher road," is an authentic, soulful dialogue, and real possibilities can emerge here. Reinvigorating our lives with dreams, imagination, and ideas is essential.

Yet, consider letting time mold and shape your impressions. Critical turning points and life changes often happen when her stations align with specific placements in the natal chart, but there is a descent with Venus that can take us on a journey to that mysterious heart center. What happens inwardly during Venus retrograde is just as significant as what happens outwardly. It begins in that inward place.

Some visions, dreams, and fantasies will not hold up. But consider how those surviving inspirations will infuse your perception with renewed hope and possibilities. The potential to fall more deeply in love with a perception exists, or a change of heart that can bring you closer to beauty, serenity, and transcendence. As the heart gets louder, we can feel overwhelmingly compelled by it, and that can have both positive and negative consequences.

However, I think that one of the greatest of skills is in learning to trust ourselves. When we perceive and understand from the heart, we often can't justify or articulate it with words. We just know. And that perception can be a blessing in a world filled with oppressive forces that seek to silence that ability to trust the inner self. Let the heart energy wash over you the next several weeks and flow with the changes that ensue. Consider how some of the most important things in your life began as a subtle change of heart and perception.

Interview with Herbalist Susun Weed

It was such an honor to be a featured guest on the Susun Weed podcast. I have been a big fan of Susan’s work for many years. She has such a unique and valuable perspective on health and herbal medicine, something incredibly valuable for the times that we live in. Click here to listen to the full show. The interview is the last 30 minutes. We talked about various astrology topics and I gave some insight into the astrology of 2020.

Happy Full Moon!

The Eternal Now: Full Moon in Scorpio 2020

Robert Kixmiller / CC BY-SA (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0)

Full Moon @ 17 Scorpio 20’

May 7, 2020

3:46 AM PST

6:46 AM EST

This Full Moon in Scorpio has depth, soul, and intensity. Scorpio highlights authenticity on several dimensions, both interpersonally and perceptually. A Scorpio Full Moon can correlate with the eruption of desire, hidden tensions, or submerged emotions. Scorpio stings us into the moment--the heart of the eternal now. Yet, Scorpio is not abstract but deeply rooted in the experience of emotion. Emotions are real, and they're powerful. Despite what the surrounding culture tells us, emotional attunement and awareness are utterly pragmatic.

Indeed, a Full Moon can itself intensify the emotional terrain, and Scorpio especially so. But, the Sun and Mercury in Taurus invite an integration (or conversation) that can help ground us and connect us to both the emotional and physical bodies as every feeling has a specific somatic loci. Another possibility: this Full Moon brings us a securing message that helps us consistently persevere without getting lost in emotional overkill.

In times like these, it's understandable to feel quite a lot, but two planets (Mercury in Taurus and Venus in Gemini) guide us to get more in touch with the heart. If things feel overly complex with this Full Moon, there is an opportunity to simplify. If you can take something big, scary, or seemingly incomprehensible, and help to make it just slightly more digestible, you're doing this Full Moon right.

Mars' wide square to the Full Moon adds some conflict and tension, but also motivation. Full Moons are dynamic moments of climax and completion, and in Scorpio, we feel the greater weight of karma as it ripens and rises. Mars' square is a challenge, daring us to go where there is trepidation. Yet, if we're real and honest with ourselves and others, we can get to a simpler, heart-centered message and understanding that makes intricacy easier to contain.

Neptune augments this lunar landscape through a free-flowing trine from Pisces. A descent into the void or an exploration of the emotional field opens the door to the imaginal and transcendent. Neptune dissolves barriers that deepen psychic perceptions, enhance dream activity, or enliven heart-opening experiences. Be mindful of who or what you let your guard down with, and realize that escapism and delusion can just as easily seep in. Yet, this lunation opens a fluid field that can inspire, awaken, and gift us access to the numinous.

Flow with Change: New Moon in Taurus 2020

Aerial photo of San Andreas Fault looking northwest onto the Carrizo Plain with Soda Lake visible at the upper left. Photo by John Wiley User: Jw4nvc - Santa Barbara, California / CC BY (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0)

New Moon @ 03 degrees tropical Taurus 24’

April 22, 2020

7:27 PM Pacific Standard Time

10:27 PM Eastern Standard Time

With a Taurus New Moon, we seek stability, consistency, and groundedness. Taurus guides us to indulge and enjoy simple pleasures, the natural world, and the physical body. Yet, Uranus in Taurus and its conjunction with this New Moon is a source of instability, particularly relating to things we once believed were permanent fixtures we could always rely upon.

Uranian energy correlates with accelerated change, and if we don't willingly bring it about, it arrives shockingly and chaotically to push us out of stale and predictable structures. There is conflict in this New Moon. You might have had enough of that, but while we should heed the typical dark moon advice and allow ourselves to reset and recharge, we should also embrace the need to shake something up.

This New Moon, however, can be a starting point where a novel direction opens up, especially one that relates to creating or sustaining material stability on some level. That can refer to finances, tangible resources, or our physical bodies. As always, the archetypes flow both ways. Resistance meets a breaking point. And long, arduous periods of restraint ease up, but not without some compromise.

Saturn in Aquarius squares this New Moon, foreshadowing the ongoing squares between Saturn and Uranus clear through 2021. Real revolutions will not win out or likely gain their desired momentum. Saturn and Pluto, the apocalyptic aura of the now, tightens and restrains us on many dimensions. However, this is a moment to pressure authority and push the conversation toward more progressive considerations.

Meeting in the middle with those in authority and power is the dominating theme until the end of next year. That suggests a push and pull between radical change and sustained focused effort. Yet, if you're consistent with the process, you'll arrive at a more innovative and more mature approach to collaboration and the ability to express yourself authentically.

For many of us, this New Moon is a powerful push toward attaining a solid sense of individuality. Also, consider the next two weeks are optimal for figuring out fresh ways to become more self-sufficient and simplify your life. If things have become too complicated, suffocating, or overtly routine, trust this New Moon to free you of those traps. It's better always to anticipate and flow with change instead of being taken by surprise.

Eye of the Storm: Full Moon in Libra 2020

Hurricane Hunters / Public domain

Full Moon @ 18 degrees Libra 44’

April 7, 2020

7:35 PM Pacific Standard Time

10:35 PM Eastern Standard Time

April begins with a Full Moon in tropical Libra. Against the background of other dominating transits, and the correlative global pandemic, you might not have noticed the lunar light illuminating the night. Yet, find comfort in knowing that the Moon is still waxing and waning, culminating right on schedule. Feel yourself firmly planted on this Earth, always moving routinely on its path around the Sun. Not everything out there has fallen into chaos.

Libra's emphasis is the pursuit of relationship--both in the human dimension as well as in many others. Libra can relate to the creative process of merging disparate pieces into a thing of beauty, as well as the mind's pursuit of making sense of a confusing world. Libra's positive side is the achievement of an open heart and an open mind, the ability to hold and respect multiple points of view.

A negative side effect of this process is feeling overwhelmed, confused, or overloaded with cognitive dissonance as you hesitate to take a position. Some wisdom we can gain from Libra is that life is filled with ambiguity and paradox. We, as human beings, are inevitably paradoxical creatures. We can reject that and experience the subsequent stress, or make peace with the notion that we must sometimes allow life not to make sense, and that's okay.

Full Moon's are also about integrating two zodiacal signs. The Sun in Aries emphasizes the Arian pursuit of stress, challenge, and crises to gather strength and solidify courage. As this Full Moon gains momentum, it symbolizes a collective need to strike a balance between urgency and sanity, as well as self-focus and the needs of others. Where do you currently fall on those spectrums? This Full Moon beckons to us to open our hearts and minds and seek some balance.

The Full Moon's square to Pluto and Jupiter also symbolizes the challenge of finding peace while scary and unsettling things exist in the world. Consider for the moment, that not all of the data is available (Mercury conjunct Neptune), so when given a choice between panic or serenity, this Libra Full Moon encourages the latter. Of course, also imbedded in this Libran lunation is a collective surge in cooperation and compromise.

At the heart of Libra lies the necessity to accommodate others for the sake of diplomacy and compassion. Lastly, Venus, the ruler of this Full Moon, has recently moved into Gemini where it will transit for four months due to its retrograde. Indeed, Venus will spend some extra time somewhere in our lives, and for all of us, it will help us learn and communicate more effectively from the heart.

From now on, trust your instincts and follow your curiosity where it leads you—question those seemingly unquestionable truths and beliefs. Dare to indulge your desire for the unexpected. We will all have much to ponder and consider over the next several months. Don't give in to boredom. Realize there is so much you don't know and be humble enough to admit it.

Cultivating Courage: New Moon in Aries 2020

Photo by Fir0002/Flagstaffotos via Wikimedia Commons.

New Moon @ 4 degrees Aries 12’

March 24, 2020

2:29 AM Pacific Daylight Time

5:29 AM Eastern Daylight Time

March's New Moon occurs in the thick of the most intense astrology of 2020 and arguably the past few decades. I've written extensively about the Saturn/Pluto conjunction in an early 2019 article here, as well as more succinctly in 2016 and 2017. The United States, and indeed most of the world, are in a precarious moment. To understand the bigger picture of Saturn/Pluto, read or review my past articles. Saturn and Pluto made their exact conjunction in January, and now Saturn moves into Aquarius until early July due to its retrograde cycle. Saturn will then re-enter Aquarius in mid-December after a short dip back into Capricorn. While Saturn moves from Aquarius to Capricorn, Saturn and Pluto will be in orb of conjunction until the end of 2021.

While we are past the spring equinox in the northern hemisphere, it might not feel like spring for much of the world while in quarantine. It might feel like winter has been extended, and Saturn/Pluto periods do carry that sense of an archetypal long and arduous winter. Alongside this New Moon, Mars, the ruler of Aries, conjoins both Pluto and Jupiter in Capricorn. The New Moon itself also conjoins Chiron while closely squaring the lunar nodes. Pluto, god/goddess of the underworld, is the archetype that most epitomizes death, destruction, and existential angst. Pluto seeks to bring about a lucid understanding of entropy and mortality that redirects consciousness to what matters most.

The combination of Mars, Saturn, and Pluto in Capricorn is a collective wave of fear and dread, and indeed a pandemic or any collective crisis will inevitably bring on strong emotions. Is Saturn and Pluto (also square Eris) causing any of this? I don't think so. However, the synchronicity of these events, both terrestrial and cosmic, indicates a collective amplification of these primordial emotions and reactions. Additionally, Jupiter has an inflammatory nature, correlating with events that become larger and sometimes more exaggerated. I'm not downplaying the severity of what's happening or discarding the need to follow expert advice, but rather pointing to the possibility that our reactions may not be 100 percent concordant with the full reality of the situation.

However, Jupiter will be in orb of conjunction with Pluto and Saturn clear through the end of the year. What we're currently dealing with on the world stage will magnify and inflame consistently the rest of 2020, leading to the significant conjunction of Jupiter and Saturn in Aquairus this December. As difficult as it can be with this New Moon, step back from emotionally charged responses and exercise some critical thought. How is fear currently being magnified beyond what's needed? Conversely, consider that sometimes ignoring or discarding all concern can be an attempt to resolve cognitive dissonance to avoid uncomfortable feelings.

Also, be mindful of misdirected anger and frustration. Are there constructive outlets to express these feelings without throwing them onto those around you? How can we channel this collective surge of fear and anger toward effective action in the world? This New Moon's conjunction with Chiron is a fascinating synchronicity. Chiron is the centaur healer who was severely wounded by a poison arrow but couldn't die due to his immortality. Chiron represents woundedness in several contexts, but also the transmutation of pain and suffering through a shift in perception. An Aries wound might manifest as frustration over an inability to take action in the usual way, or a paralyzing fear that disables all mobility or assertiveness. This New Moon offers us an opportunity to adjust our perception or attitudes to reframe our perception of a situation.

Instead of dwelling on what directions you can't take, focus on what new opportunities you now have time for, or projects that you can initiate instead. An Aries New Moon is a perfect and potent starting point, but Chiron here suggests that all new beginnings will require an adjustment of how we perceive the situation and an opportunity to heal wounds associated with free-will, autonomy, and assertiveness. With the lunation (Sun and Moon) conjunct Chiron and squaring the nodal axis, the current meaning of the nodes is highly relevant for this New Moon. We see the South Node in Capricorn with its ruler, Saturn, in Aquarius. A Capricorn South Node emphasizes a collective release of our bondage to time, overwork, and a build-up of emotional constipation.

Saturn in Aquarius emphasizes alienation or indifference to the suffering of others. The North Node in Cancer suggests we are being called on to seek healing, connection, and cultivation of compassion. The Moon in Aries, conjunct Chiron, suggests being proactive and transmuting a victim's perspective to a courageous stepping forward to effectively meet incoming challenges. Yes, these are difficult times, but this Aries New Moon can help remind you that you're more durable and more capable than you might initially think. Additionally, the irony of this moment is that while many of us might feel isolated and alone, there is an emerging opportunity to work together and eradicate the barriers that have kept us collectively apart.

The Aries archetype is a warrior and trailblazer. This moment calls for taking the initiative as well as embracing paths that have yet to be tread. When it can seem like the darkness is closing in on us and so many previous pathways are suddenly closed off, we're forced to get creative and change the way we look at things. One of Chiron's most notable teachings here is that we can get stuck dwelling on what's broken, scary, or what angers us. Both rage and stress can become addicting. Refocus your attention to a larger cause or purpose, and there you will find the gift. The next several months will not be easy, but being courageous enough to trust this moment can remove at least some of the burden.

Trust the Flow: New Moon in Pisces 2020

Photo by Chad Woodward, May 2019.

New Moon @ 04 degrees Pisces 29’

February 23, 2020

7:32 AM Pacific Standard Time

This month's New Moon occurs in tropical Pisces in close conjunction with Mercury retrograde. You might notice a magnification of Mercury's retrograde side effects over the next several days--techno/mechanical glitches, profound rediscoveries, or seemingly random inconveniences that lead to new perspectives.

The sign of Pisces symbolizes the end of the zodiacal cycle and correlates with transcendence, mystery, and numinosity. A retrograde infused Piscean New Moon can be a powerful opening into the esoteric dimensions of reality. Carefully look around for reminders that you're a part of something incredible and not wholly fathomable.

Mercury retrograde's positive manifestations consist of the awareness that we don't have all the answers, and in that humble acceptance, we gain excitement over the prospect of discovery. Consider this New Moon a potent field that opens the way to new possibilities, fresh hope, faith, or insatiable curiosity.

However, one point of tension lies in Mars' south node conjunction and t-square with Chiron. Anger, hostility, viciousness, and rage can add some volatility to the current collective field. Move like water over the next several days; flow into this field gently as opposed to charging ahead with full force. Chiron's square to Mars offers an opportunity to transmute volatile or harmful emotions proactively.

Mars on the South Node reminds us that while it's important to tend to our responsibilities and work commitments, self-care and self-love are essential to be effective in the world. Avoid burn out or exhaustion by taking some time check-in with yourself, step back, and, most of all, trust the flow.

While it might be tempting to think you need to take control, this New Moon suggests taking your time and allowing things to reveal themselves. This month's New Moon occurs in tropical Pisces in close conjunction with Mercury retrograde. You might notice a magnification of Mercury's retrograde side effects over the next several days--techno/mechanical glitches, profound rediscoveries, or seemingly random inconveniences that lead to new perspectives.

Finding Joy: Leo Full Moon 2020

Full Moon @ 20 degrees Leo 00' 
February 8, 2020
11:34 PM PST

This month's Full Moon in tropical Leo may or may not be a supermoon, depending on how it's defined. By stricter definitions, it isn't, but either way, don't anticipate a notably brighter and bigger Full Moon. However, for northern hemispheric dwellers, especially, this Full Moon brings in some archetypal (and perhaps literal) heat that can help in the colder months of the year. 

While it may be more difficult to tell for those in the extreme northern hemisphere, the spring season is already emerging. This Full Moon can serve as a reinforcement of that impending transition. So, what makes this Full Moon so heat-centric? Yes, it occurs in fire sign Leo, but it also makes one dynamic aspect to Mars in fire sign Sagittarius, adding some fierceness, zeal, and chutzpah. 

On the negative side, this Full Moon could magnify dramatic, attention-grabbing outbursts/displays or thoughtlessness and impulsive risk-taking. On the positive side, both creative and sexual power can be increased, conducive for spontaneity, or merely a good time. Leo, at heart, emphasizes playfulness and the building of confidence. Indeed, both are required for successful self-expression and putting one's talents on display.

Leo energy, in its most positive expression, isn't overly narcissistic or histrionic but radiates a natural charm, dignity, and power. If you require an uplift while amid the current heavy-hitting astrology (looking at you, Saturn and Pluto), this Full Moon can be a source of motivation and life-force. It can help serve as a healthy reminder that sometimes you need to step away from the seriousness and laugh, make love, or play. In case you forgot, there is joy in this world, look around.

Aquarian Reboot: New Moon in Aquarius 2020

Photo by Lieutenant Debora Barr, NOAA Corps via Wikimedia Commons

New Moon @ 04 degrees Aquarius 22'

January 24, 2020

1:43 PM Los Angeles

4:43 PM New York 9:43 PM London

January 25, 2020

5:43 AM Beijing

8:43 AM Sydney

This month's dark Moon is the first New Moon of 2020 and occurring in tropical Aquarius; there's an extra sense of newness. The Aquarian New Moon always coincides with the Chinese New Year, which gives it special significance as a marker of new beginnings. The last two lunations, both eclipses, carried heavier and more challenging energy.

With eclipse season behind us, this Aquarian New Moon can feel like an opportunity to start fresh, especially relating to the process of individuation. One reason for that is that eclipses are brief moments of accelerated change where we often feel pressured to adjust something about ourselves both internally and externally. Another reason is that the archetypal energy of Aquarius emphasizes freedom, independence, and innovation.

The negative side of Aquarius is exile and alienation, where an individual is no longer accepted or embraced by others either because of something innate or as a result of antisocial actions. However, the higher road of Aquarian energy is the ability to be oneself and live authentically. Uranus' square to this New Moon can put some pressure on the process of standing out and being unique.

Putting oneself fully and honestly into the world requires enormous risk and vulnerability. Also, while change can be needed, welcomed, and liberating, it doesn't always come easy, or voluntarily. This New Moon can feel like we're getting pushed into a situation or scenario where change is inevitable, maybe also unanticipated, but ultimately for the best.

Indeed, Uranus' square to this New Moon creates the potential for sudden and unplanned breaks with the past. However, if we're aware of what needs to change, and how we need to make it happen, we can engage with this new starting point to consciously break free of something that held us back from being true to ourselves. No, not everyone will accept us, but life is too fleeting to make everyone feel comfortable.

Trust Your Heart and Push On: Lunar Eclipse in Cancer 2020

Joanna Poe from Munith, MI, USA [CC BY-SA (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/2.0)]

January 10, 2020

11:21 AM Los Angeles

2:21 PM New York

7:21 PM London

January 11, 2020

3:21 AM Beijing

6:21 AM Sydney

January's Lunar Eclipse in tropical Cancer is the first Full Moon of 2020, and it synchronously aligns with the exacting conjunction of Saturn and Pluto. For more details on Saturn and Pluto's conjunction, check out my article here. This Full Moon will be a penumbral lunar eclipse entirely or partially visible from most of the world, excluding North and South America (except for a small eastern portion of Brazil).

Saturn and Pluto's opposition to the Full Moon is inherently a challenge. The Cancerian Full Moon amplifies emotional sensitivity and vulnerability; it invites the expression of compassion and self-love. Yet, Saturn and Pluto in Capricorn emphasize pragmatism, stoicism, and constraint. Mercury's superior conjunction with the Sun also opposes the Moon, creating the potential for hopelessness projected into the future.

The cluster of planets in Capricorn can heighten self-doubt or the dwelling on failures and shortcomings. Historically, the Saturn/Pluto cycle coincides with what Richard Tarnas termed global "conservative empowerment," which seeks to pull back or restore things to some idealized, past state of safety or purity.

Longing for the past and fearing progress is a dead-end situation where new possibilities are no longer within reach. Indeed, real-life circumstances can catalyze such a situation, but sometimes such limitations exist exclusively in the mind. Whether real or imagined, the limitations confronted with this lunation can represent a breaking point that provides the motivation to find a way out or a new path forward.

Neptune's trine to the Full Moon can tempt evasion of responsibilities or escapism, but it can also offer inspiration and a renewed vision. Uranus' station alongside this eclipse adds an expected element as well as a restlessness with stagnant circumstances. While it may be tempting to make things harder or stay in a difficult place because its comfortable, this eclipse offers a different choice where self-loathing can be replaced with self-love.

The Moon in Cancer dominates the moment, empowering the heart and generating a more lucid awareness of what matters most. Anticipate some notable domestic or emotional shifts with this lunation. And when confronted with overbearing "voices of reason" or an overtly conservative landscape, trusting spontaneity or following your heart is the more unpopular and challenging choice. While some things might appear less fruitful at the moment, trust your heart and keep pushing on. There are potentials and creative solutions, even in the midst of an immense contraction.

Meaningful Change: New Moon/Solar Eclipse in Capricorn 2019

Milan Bališin [CC BY-SA 4.0 (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0)]

New Moon/Annular Solar Eclipse @ 4 degrees Capricorn

December 25, 2019

9:13 PM Los Angeles

December 26, 2019

12:13 AM New York

5:13 AM London

1:13 PM Beijing

4:13 PM Sydney

This month's New Moon is also an annular solar eclipse in tropical Capricorn. It will be visible from the Middle East, East Africa, southern portions of Asia, Micronesia, and northern Australia. Solar eclipses represent a melding of dissipation and dynamic new beginnings. It's helpful to view solar eclipses as an extra powerful New Moon that amplifies intentions. However, the two weeks proceeding a solar eclipse can symbolically relate to a potent dissolution of the past.

Eclipse season (the period between and surrounding both solar and lunar eclipses), can correlate with accelerated changes both inwardly and outwardly as release makes space for new growth. These are fertile moments for making changes that can have lasting results and ramifications, though not everyone will experience eclipses profoundly. How the eclipse interacts with the birth chart will determine its significance.

In considering the sign of Capricorn, and the recent solstice transition, there is an inward and reflective quality to this New Moon/eclipse that can conflict with the busyness of the holiday season. Capricorn emphasizes the investment of time, energy, and ambition toward sustainable and durable endeavors. The need for sacrifice and solitude often contributes to the execution of successful Capricorn strategies.

Jupiter has recently moved into Capricorn and conjoins this New Moon/eclipse. Jupiter's simultaneous trine to Uranus can correlate with the sudden emergence of opportunities that lead to big structural changes and the accomplishment of major goals. There is some good luck, optimism, and unforeseen big breaks with this New Moon, but pragmatism and self-discipline will feature just as strongly. Look deeper than fleeting luck to what has longstanding potential. Reinvest rewards for more significant future benefits.

Happy Holidays!

From Light to Darkness: Full Moon in Gemini 2019

Full Moon @ 19 degrees Gemini 52’

December 11, 2012

9:12 PM Los Angeles

December 12, 2012

12:12 AM New York

This month's Full Moon in tropical Gemini symbolizes our transition into an eclipse season that completes 2019 and begins 2020. There will be a solar eclipse on Dec. 25 followed by a lunar eclipse Jan. 10. Additionally, 2020 will be a somewhat heavy year, with Saturn and Pluto's exact conjunction dominating in January.

Expect Saturn and Pluto to manifest more so collectively, or if Saturn and Pluto somehow touch your chart directly. Saturn and Pluto can signal the need to take a big step toward greater maturity, or otherwise, it can feel like the weight of karma, such as the consequences of evading responsibilities bearing down on us.

Yet, Saturn and Pluto's conjunction can be an empowering transit that can correlate with laying down a foundation for the creation of autonomy, self-sufficiency, and increased responsibility. Saturn and Pluto both quincunx this Full Moon from Capricorn. This Gemini Full Moon can correlate with the completion or culmination of some onerous mental task or conversation. Information, ideas, opinions, stimulating dialogue, and breaking news may be features of this lunation.

The Gemini/Sagittarius axis emphasizes freedom, the desire to break loose, and pursue new directions. However, Saturn, Pluto, and Venus' quincunx place some hesitation, limitation, doubt, or a commitment that prevents a full dive onto the path of unrestrained spontaneity.

Neptune's square to the Full Moon axis can be a point of obfuscation, deception, or a challenge to certainty. However, Neptune can also catalyze healthy skepticism, or disintegrate an attachment to an overtly logical perspective, making space for inspiration. As we head into eclipse season, recognize that the next two weeks can symbolize, more so than usual, the inevitable dissipation and passing away of certain forms from our lives.

The two weeks before a solar eclipse are a potent field of release and the realization of impermanence. Recognize that more successful new beginnings lie beyond the Dec. 25 solar eclipse. For now, make space for what needs to be released. Turn inward, and make space for self-reflection. The darkness gains its dominance this time of year, and it gifts us the most rewarding insight.

Keep It Simple: Full Moon in Taurus 2019

Grand Tetons National Park; photo by Chad Woodward, July 2019.

Full Moon @ 19 Taurus 52'
November 12, 2019
5:35 AM Los Angeles
8:35 AM New York
1:35 PM London

This month's Full Moon culminates in the tropical sign of Taurus. Most notably, its opposition to Mercury retrograde, suggests we're at the heart of the retrograde storm. And preceding the Full Moon, Mercury's transit across the Sun, brought its conjunction into a more amplified focus. With Mercury playing such a principal role at the moment, it can feel like rapid-fire information is coming from a multitude of directions.

It is more than possible to feel overwhelmed with ideas, options, data, opinions, or activities. Indeed a Full Moon can inherently feel like that, but Mercury retrograde adds something extra. While often frustrating us with detours and breakdowns, Mercury retrograde does offer us valuable reroutes, even if we can't see the benefit initially. Accidents can have a surprising way of enriching our lives.

However, with the hectic stuff in the background, the Full Moon in Taurus directs the whole scene. While it's easy to slide into chaos or get freaked out over complexity, the Taurus Full Moon reminds us that simplicity is not only possible but attainable. Stick to the simple script. Don't push yourself further out, or dig any deeper than you already have.

Despite what you have to do, take a moment with this Full Moon just to breathe things out. Find the simplest way possible to make sense of something massive or complex. Sit in nature, or watch the sky change. Remember the easy stuff, because everything else is already at the forefront. While it might not feel like it, this Full Moon is incredibly grounding, helping us to integrate these changes with ease. Have patience and process one thing at a time.

New Views in the Dark Moon: New Moon in Scorpio 2019

Alias 0591 from the Netherlands [CC BY 2.0 (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0)]

New Moon @ 4 degrees Scorpio 25'

October 27, 2019

8:38 PM Los Angeles

11:38 PM New York

October 28, 2019

3:38 AM London

11:38 AM Beijing

2:38 AM Sydney

This month's dark Moon occurs in tropical Scorpio while Mercury stations retrograde. The official start of the retrograde is October 31, while Mercury conjoins Venus. With the New Moon ruler, Mars, in Libra, Mercury, and Venus' approaching conjunction further highlight pivotal relational dialogues. Consider Scorpio the sign of authenticity, and how honesty, vulnerability, and overall realness may be prominent themes of several encounters.

The most striking aspect to this New Moon is Uranus' close opposition. It correlates with a desire to break with convention, usurp the status quo, or the arrival of the unexpected. New Moons, as natural starting points, generate formative momentum. While the collective energy may be lower, new things are starting to take root. With this New Moon, it can be the sudden start of a conversation, dialogue, relationship, or creative project that seeks to change a belief or perception.

While Mercury's retrograde cycles can be points of frustration, correlating with setbacks, delays, or mechanical breakdowns, they also work to break down and restructure our beliefs. Consider the need to keep an open mind, not only under the New Moon itself but especially in the following week. Intense and serendipitous meetups can serve to break down barriers revealing vital insights and information.

Feeling the Heat: Full Moon in Aries 2019

Arches National Park [Public domain]

Full Moon @ 12 Aries 54'

October 12, 2019

11:34 PM Los Angeles

2:34 PM New York

7:34 AM London

2:34 PM Beijing

5:34 PM Sydney

With a Full Moon in tropical Aries trine Jupiter in Sagittarius, there is some heat inherent to this lunation. We also can't forget Aries' cardinal nature. A cardinal, fire Full Moon can feel rather dynamic and assertive, leading to an amplification of impulsivity, brashness, and aggression. Yet, Mars, the Full Moon ruler, is in Libra, and thus not as warrior-like as it would like to be. There may be a theme around the Full Moon of having to tone down passion or intensity for the sake of diplomacy.

Jupiter's trine also amps up the enthusiasm, so be mindful of spontaneous leaps or letting instincts call the shots. Mars in Libra requires withholding immediacy for the sake of considering options, or at least another point of view. Likely the most daunting dimension of this Full Moon is the t-square formation involving Pluto and Saturn in Capricorn. Pluto/Saturn is a heavy background theme that can feel like a collective, "conservative contraction," as Richard Tarnas coined it.

We can utilize this to empower a personal strategy for narrowing our focus and stepping up our efforts towards the accomplishment of serious goals. Hitting the Full Moon axis pretty hard, Pluto/Saturn adds a sobering jab from reality. Pluto especially, since it squares the Full Moon more closely, can bring up hard-to-integrate (or swallow) truths or perspectives. And balancing the Aries/Libra polarity requires a delicate dance of reciprocity between two parties.

If anything, this Full Moon can correlate with a catalyzing breaking point/resolution in a relationship, conflict, conversation, or negotiation. Consider also, Venus' waning opposition to Uranus. Combined with the Full Moon in Aries, and the Mars in Libra/relational theme, there may also be a sense of restlessness and subsequent desire to branch out and make new connections. Uranus' sudden unpredictability can rapidly dissolve relational stagnations. Yet, remember the dance of reciprocity, so check-in to clarify that everyone is on the same page.

Let the Love Flow: New Moon in Libra 2019

Dahola [CC BY-SA 3.0 (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0)]

New Moon @ 05 Libra 20'

September 27, 2019

11:27 AM Los Angeles

2:27 PM New York

7:27 PM London

September 28, 2019

2:27 AM Beijing

4:27 AM Sydney

With the lunar cycle waning into its New Moon phase just past the equinox, there is an increased focus on more subtle aspects and nuance. For those in the northern hemisphere, the Sun is gradually losing its domain. The days are shortening and the nights are increasing. This month's New Moon in tropical Libra occurs while its ruling planet, Venus, transits its home sign. Venus in Libra adds an extra layer of symbolism relating to all matters of the heart--aesthetics and relationships, the need to feel, express, and appreciate beauty and love.

Look for subtle beginnings in heart-related themes. The synchronistic threads will weave Venusian textures somewhere in your life. Of course, while Venus and Libra emphasize the ideal of perfect love, mutual feelings, and unanimous agreement, wisdom reminds us of how rarely life matches those expectations. Chiron makes an opposition to this New Moon, opening up heart-centered wounds and defects alongside the opportunity to heal or make peace. And Saturn squares the New Moon while conjunct the lunar South Node.

Chiron can reveal areas where the expression of affection may be blocked, or where we may need to reach out more. If you get hung up on the imperfections, step back and look at the bigger picture. There is no ideal perfect union, commitment, or beauty, but only a messy, imperfect attempt at attaining our human concept of love and self-transcendence. Saturn's square adds some limitations and reality checks, like how what we feel, want, or desire may not match up with what's available in the moment.

With this New Moon, a compromise or attitudinal adjustment may be required. With greater insight about how we can improve our ability to connect and generate rapport, we can begin taking decisive steps toward making things better. If you're already in the thick of the hard work, this New Moon will serve to reinforce your efforts. No matter how difficult or how many obstacles you encounter, keep your heart open and let the love flow.

Divinity in the Mundane: Full Moon in Pisces 2019

Helgi Halldórsson from Reykjavík, Iceland [CC BY-SA 2.0 (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/2.0)]

Full Moon @ 21 degrees Pisces 05’

September 13, 2019

9:33 PM Los Angeles

September 14, 2019

12:33 AM New York

5:33 AM London

12:33 PM Beijing

2:33 PM Sydney

September's Full Moon climaxes alongside Neptune's brightest moment--it's opposition to the Sun. Additionally, the Moon is in technical conjunction with Neptune itself. For sky watchers, that won't make it easier to see (if using a telescope or binoculars), but it's an apt metaphor for the Neptune archetype as nebulous, obfuscating, and elusive. Out of the notable planetary archetypes in astrology, Neptune may be the least understood. However, if viewed through the lens of synchronicity, there's meaning behind its title as God of the seas.

Surrender comes to mind. When faced with what appears to be a supernatural power, willing surrender is sometimes the only choice we have. Humility is a side effect, allowing us to gain perspective of our place in the larger scheme of things. Neptune can bring awareness of overpowering, natural forces, or supernatural realities--hyper dimensions or "disembodied" intelligence. Whatever the case, the Neptune archetype may serve to remind us of how little we know and excite us about the mysteries yet solved.

The most dynamic feature of this Full Moon involves a t-square among the Full Moon/Neptune, Sun/Mars, and Jupiter in Sagittarius. Here, there's a sense of caution, especially in managing desires, impulses, or rage. Since the target, destination, or objective is likely obfuscated, utilize more critical discernment before jumping in. Thoughtlessness, carelessness, or naivete may be the most significant points of weakness. If you can avoid both temptation and distraction, you can channel enthusiasm toward a greater purpose and perhaps receive much-needed insight and inspiration.

On the other end of the Full Moon equation, lies a cluster of planets in Virgo, a mutable earth sign. With Saturn stationing direct next week, it wouldn't be wise to evade responsibilities. Finding a moment to retreat, meditate, or contemplate may not be possible, but this combination reminds us of the wisdom that divinity lies just as equally in the mundane. If possible, turn daily tasks and duties into a mindfulness excersice.

Clearing the Way: New Moon in Virgo 2019

The Great Salt Lake from Antelope Island, Utah, July 2019; photo by Chad Woodward.

New Moon @ 06 degrees Virgo 47’

August 30, 2019

3:37 AM Los Angeles

6:37 AM New York

11:37 AM London

6:37 PM Beijing

8:37 PM Sydney

As the lunar cycle winds down into its New Moon phase, we're ready for a shift and change of direction. This month's Virgo New Moon may not correlate with a period of restfulness or laziness as the dark Moon typically tends to do. The Virgo archetype is one factor, another is the Earthy, and thus pragmatic, grand trine between a cluster of planets in Virgo, Saturn/Pluto in Capricorn, and Uranus in Taurus.

Here, we're given the seeds for the birthing of an integrated productivity flow. This is an optimal moment for beginning anything that requires meticulousness and precision. Alongside that, however, can be a sense of feeling overwhelmed with the enormity of what needs to get done, or the many areas needing improvement. Neptune's wide opposition to the New Moon from Pisces can offer distraction, escape, or an inspiring vision of the way forward. The current line-up of planets in Virgo (Mercury, Sun, Moon, Mars, and Venus), can stimulate single-mindedness and intensity of focus.

The downside of this dark Moon can lead us into unproductive fault finding, feelings of insecurity, and paralysis. Both Mars and Uranus make the closest aspects to this New Moon, generating some useful tension. One manifestation of Mars is the eruption of anger, frustration, or fear. Uranus' trine offers an unexpected opportunity for liberation, freedom, and a refreshing change of pace. One solution to any current frustrations might lie in taking an unusual route.

Whatever shows up four you alongside this New Moon, consider that a commitment to relentless improvement will be required. There are likely some high standards to adhere to, too. However, the Virgo path is one that stimulates a desire to be better, more useful, and acquire competency and skillfulness. Use this time to sharpen your focus, skills, and confidence. And look carefully for a unique edge or an alternative way forward. A New Moon trine Uranus is a dynamic fresh start, a lunation that can suddenly clear the way for change, progress, and resolution.

Fateful Encounters: Full Moon in Aquarius 2019

Jessie Eastland [CC BY-SA 4.0 (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0)]

Full Moon @ 22 Aquarius 24’

August 15, 2019

5:29 AM Los Angeles

8:29 AM New York

1:29 PM London

8:29 PM Beijing

10:29 PM Sydney

Two culminations are occurring right now. Yes, the Full Moon in tropical Aquarius is the obvious one. Less visible is the Full Venus in Leo that exacted on Aug. 13. If you were looking at an ephemeris or chart wheel, you would see what would look only like a conjunction of Sun and Venus, but that's not the whole picture. From our geocentric perspective, it appears as a conjunction, though one that we can't physically see because the rays of the Sun overcome Venus' light.

Venus' synodic cycle is nuanced and complex, but not every conjunction is the same. Full Venus brings a significant turning point to the events that transpired during the Venus retrograde cycle of July/Aug./early Sept. 2015. The magic of Venus is that it weaves together significant creative, artistic, relational, or overall heart-centered themes on a very predictable rhythm. Reflect on that period and see if there are any current connections. Fate can be hard to see, and just as difficult to avoid.

The Full Moon in Aquarius makes an opposition to Full Venus and Mars. There is likely a dominant theme involving significant relationships embedded in this Full Moon. The presence of Mars adds a dimension of friction, tension, the need for assertion and the stirring of anger or aggression. The Aquarian Moon adds an element of objectivity and perspective. Perhaps that translates quite clearly in seeing the tensions that exist in current partnerships and collaborations.

Perhaps also, there's a sense of having to face fears, take a leap, and confront something in a cool, collected, and civil manner. There's also a risk of detachment and icy coldness contaminating authentic exchange and emphatic dialogue. Finding a balance between honoring individuality and the values (perhaps aggressively guarded) of others can be another challenge. Look deeper into the theme of your interactions and try to see a more significant purpose or meaning. Creative or ingenious solutions can also break through this Aquarian Full Moon.