Mars

mars

Mars in Leo ♂ Aug 8 - Sep 24

Mars transits Leo from Aug 8 – Sep 24, 2015

Click here to learn about Mars. Click here to learn about Leo.

Martian power is sourced now from the heart and ego. What is the difference? This is the question to hold in mind as we journey with Mars into Leo, for the answer is our saving grace. Lately I’ve been deconstructing my own conception of Leo, only to discover that there’s a lot more than meets the eye. It is all too easy to write Leo off as another dramatic wanna-be in this world already full to the brim with self-centered behavior. Embedded in the lion’s sense of Self - indeed, the very stuff of which he’s made - is a heart of gold just bursting to be recognized. Ironically, the more attention that we pay to Leo’s heart, the less he will feel the need to flamboyantly parade his bejeweled ego.

The lion symbolizes grandeur, strength, sovereignty and courage. As I’ve eluded, many astrologers paint an image of Leo that suggests an unyielding, conceited, overbearing and autocratic personality. On the contrary, Leo is an inspiration. The lion is magnetic, his enthusiasm contagious. Mars in Leo is fearlessly creative. However, Leo sometimes adopts very traditional values, tastes or preferences – a possible manifestation of fixed energy. Mars in Leo therefore has a “personal code.”

Mars in Leo makes a powerful first impression. He has lots of friends and enjoys being social, perhaps to a fault. Mars in Leo never gives up on people/duties as he is fiercely devoted in character. When balanced, Mars in Leo is self-assured, decisive, and dignified. Expect the following weeks to bring more physical and sexual energy. In excess, lion energy may cause you to splurge or binge. I suggest a ritual involving fire or some Leo Yoga.

Mars transited the lion’s opposite sign (Aquarius) back in December 2014 . Any themes/conflicts that predominated then will now resurface. Mars in Aquarius sources power from the collective. He envisions a community working together innovatively and peacefully. As we’ve discussed, Mars in Leo is more concerned with individual endeavors. Mars in Aquarius craves change - he is dynamic and spunky, even shocking, moving quickly so long as the chosen path allows total freedom and independence. Leo embodies comparable levels of physical and mental energy, but he is hardly cool and unemotional. With Mars in Aquarius, we can use this to our advantage by approaching emotionally charged relationships with a more impersonal tone: by remaining detached, unconcerned with what or how things happen, we are able to remain in the present moment, free from the limitations of anger and sadness. Although this may sound appealing to Leo theoretically, he so enjoys feeling everything on such a raw level that I can’t imagine he’d ever really choose not to live through the heart.

The pace of everyday life will pick up now, but nothing too crazy. By the time Mars enters Leo, there will be a total of four planets in this fiery realm. However, the lion likes to lounge - he’s really not in a hurry to get anywhere. I like to visualize Leo energy as a ripe violet grape; a festival; a crown of rainbow jewels; Aslan; scarab beetles; furs; adornments; a circus; a barrel of wine; a golden ring; noon hour in the summer; a dancing queen; bling; an all-night rager; a regal family; a noble leader; a generous grandfather. I love this from Aeternalight Astrology: “Fun, romance, sex, will be like oblations to the sacred fire of the heart, to reignite its flames and restore our optimism, joie de vivre, and sense of purpose in the midst of these challenging, often traumatic times.” My intuition tells me that this transit will be quite calm - so far the Leo season has felt like one sigh of relief after such an intense round through Cancer. Snuggle up to the Self, wrap your arms around your heart. Namaste.

If you were born with Mars in Leo, this transit will be a return for you. More on that later! To ascertain your personal Mars sign, click here. If you would like to know more about how this transit affects you personally, please contact me for more insight.

Mantra: my power is in my heart

Mars in Cancer ♂ June 24 - Aug 8

Mars transits Cancer from June 24 – August 8, 2015

Click here to learn about Mars. Click here to learn about Cancer.

For the last month or so, Mars spun like a madman through Gemini. I’ve been really enjoying this transit. I feel totally refreshed. We all fully comprehend what the twins have to offer life as we near the end of the Gemini cycle. What to expect now as Mars wades into Cancer?

Divine feminine power

As each planet gravitates from sign to sign, subtle aspects of life on Earth shift accordingly. Mars transits shape our ambition, physical drive and sexual urges. Martian power is sourced now from the emotional body and our domestic instincts. Mars in Cancer is sweet and nurturing in his natural state, moody and lethargic if imbalanced. When the warrior planet meets up with the crab, goddess of home and family, irrational reactionary behavior is the weapon of greatest destruction. Active, physical, masculine Mars finds his outlet now in heart-to-heart conversation, yin yoga and returning home. You may sleep more than usual now, especially with all of the other planets soon moving into Cancer. With Mars in Cancer, we are especially sensitive to changes in the body and our physical environment. We move through the world as though with child: cautious, loving, full of peace.

Mars in Gemini was light, bright and easy-breezy. Now Mars immerses himself in the divine feminine water element. We may be prone to lounging around if we don’t have enough to do, so be sure to keep moving and stay busy. Mars in Cancer operates best when moving slowly - quality over quantity, no rush, not too much. This is definitely an odd placement for the warrior planet. Mars in Cancer does not like to work hard if it’s not absolutely necessary. Visualize Mars bathing in a tranquil ocean, taking a break from all of his macho duties.

Heart chakra awareness

Mars in Cancer does not focus so much on the power of the body. It is important to move and sweat every day, but now we can relax as well and tune in to our vivid inner world. We must also bring conscious awareness to the heart chakra. In meditation, try a heart-centered approach as outlined in Cancer Yoga. Mars in Cancer asks us to follow our intuition. Have confidence and know that the stars are with you. Draw upon the crab’s extraordinary empathy to guide your emotional/intuitive decision-making.

The pace of everyday life will slow considerably now. Release any pent-up emotions through heart-opening yoga poses and in the water, preferably outdoors. If you’re feeling a little crabby, take a step back - calm and steady is the way to be. Mars in Cancer is so consciously aware of his surroundings that it will be difficult to trick him into doing something that doesn’t speak to mind, body and spirit. You may feel overwhelmed more quickly than usual. Give yourself lovingkindness and remember to lay low if need be. Namaste.

I was born with Mars in Cancer, so this transit will be a return for me. More on that later! To ascertain your personal Mars sign, click here. If you would like to know more about how this transit affects you personally, please contact me for more insight.

Mantra: powerful heart

Mars in Gemini ♂ May 11 - June 24

Mars transits Gemini from May 11 - June 24, 2015

Click here to learn about Mars. Click here to learn about Gemini.

For the last month or so, Mars plodded through Taurus. Over the last few weeks it’s been difficult to even write about all these Taurus transits. Inertia, the bull’s greatest foe. But we fully comprehend what the bull is capable of, now that we’re halfway through the Taurus cycle. What to expect as Mars now whirls into the realm of mutable air Gemini?

Power to the intellect

As each planet gravitates from sign to sign, subtle aspects of life on Earth shift accordingly. Mars transits shape our ambition, physical drive and sexual urges. Martian power is sourced now from our intellect and social life. Mars in Gemini is light and playful in his natural state, restless and inconsistent if imbalanced. When the warrior planet meets up with the twins, masters of spoken word, the tongue becomes the weapon of greatest destruction. Active, physical, masculine Mars finds his outlet now in endless conversation, wild gesticulation (Gemini rules the hands) and a deep craving for stimulation in all forms. You may be particularly drawn to puzzles, board games, journaling, reading or anything involving spoken/written communication. With Mars in Gemini, the ego lives in the mind’s abilities. We take immense pride in our capacity for knowledge.

Mars in fixed earth Taurus was slow, stubborn and perhaps a bit lazy. Now Mars immerses himself in the divine speed and agility of the air element. We may be prone to nervousness, nitpicking or over-thinking if we don’t have enough to do, so be sure to keep moving and stay busy. Mars in Gemini operates best when multitasking. Counterintuitive though it may be, juggling ten undertakings rather than two is what will allow us to remain focused and whole. If balanced, expect to feel curious, energized and gregarious. Visualize a handful of fluffy seeds borne on the wind, unconcerned as to the final destination.

Throat chakra awareness

Mars in Gemini is easily bored. As you know, it is important to move and sweat every day, but now we have no choice. Let the body languish, and like clockwork, an energetic tempest of gale force proportions will manifest rapidly in mind and body, inevitably spewing out as a cyclone of cutting sarcasm or petty debate. We must not only move the body, but also bring conscious awareness to the throat chakra. Mars in Gemini asks us to speak our truth. Have confidence and know that the stars are with you. Draw upon the twins’ inherent wit and versatility to direct your voice effectually.

The pace of everyday life will pick up considerably now. Release any pent-up emotions through the hands, such as by writing, playing music or making art. Although we must now learn how to balance many ideas/relationships/duties at once, don’t be surprised when you suddenly lose interest in them. Remember that Mars in Gemini is ultimately just looking to have as much fun as possible and stay occupied. Tune in now to the beauty and power of the human mind.

To ascertain your personal Mars sign, click here. If you would like to know more about how this transit affects you personally, please contact me for more insight.

Mars in Taurus ♂ Mar 31 - May 11

Mars transits Taurus from March 31 to May 11, 2015

Click here to learn about Mars. Click here to learn about Taurus.

For the last month or so, Mars has been hanging out at home in Aries. As predicted, frustration and impatience bubbled up more quickly than usual. Energy levels were high, inertia suspended. We fully comprehend what the ram is capable of now that we’re more than a week into the Aries cycle. What can we expect as Mars spins to a lull in the realm of Taurus?

As each planet gravitates from sign to sign, subtle aspects of life on Earth shift accordingly. Martian transits shape the nature of our ambitions, physical drive and sexual urges. Martian power is sourced now from external reality and the senses with which we perceive this reality. Mars in Taurus is painfully stubborn and slow to act when imbalanced. However the bull, unlike the ram, is placid and peace-loving in her natural state. I would also say that most Taureans have a “long fuse.” But make no mistake: push the bull to her limits and you shall be promptly gored. When balanced, Mars in Taurus encourages us to declutter our living space. This placement may be more sedentary than usual.

Mars stops to smell the flowers

Mars in Aries was assertive and fearless: pure energy, straight from the Source. Now Mars immerses himself in the Divine Feminine: art, aesthetic, abundance, home and Gaia. Mars in Taurus is like a boulder: mighty, but incredibly difficult to budge! If you can get Mars off the couch, this transit will work very hard for you. Once Taureans finally set to work on a task, they attack it with impressive force. Imbalanced Mars in Taurus can be obstinate, quarrelsome, reckless, lethargic or too complacent. If balanced, expect to feel sublimely grounded. The bull with a good head on her shoulders is exceptionally calm and patient.

Mars in Taurus wants to find activities we can do in waking life to keep the connection between body, earth and spirit blooming. For example: a morning ritual or self-care regimen, intention setting before a meal, time spent gardening/farming, ceremonial burning or singing, as Taurus rules the throat and voice. You now begin to explore your sensual and sexual proclivities. We are tactile and lustful with Mars in Taurus. Like Aries, the bull must answer to biology’s finest call; we’ve got a one-track mind come springtime, no different from any of the other animals with whom we share this lovely planet. Mars in Taurus draws us to more passive affairs such as leisurely walks, cooking, sun bathing and bonding with cats ^___^ Imbalanced Mars in Taurus may manifest as over indulgence, particularly with vices such as drugs and alcohol.

I expect that the pace of life will slow down a bit now, but not too much since we are indeed in the midst of Aries season. Because of this, physical energy levels will probably remain high. Instead of struggling to get out of bed, we may struggle to go with the flow. One karmic lesson for those who incarnate as bulls is letting go and surrendering to the unseen forces of the Universe. It’s time now to walk boldly down the trails cut by the ram.

To ascertain your personal Mars sign, click here. If you would like to know more about how this transit affects you personally, please contact me for more insight.

Mars at home in Aries ♂ Feb 19 - Mar 31

Mars transits Aries from February 19, 2015 – March 31

Click here to learn about Mars. Click here to learn about Aries.

For the last month or so, Mars the Warrior has been swimming through Pisces. As predicted, I often felt stuck and frustrated - energy levels were low and motivation to overcome inertia was elusive. Mars was far from comfortable in Pisces, but he’s returning “home” now to cardinal fire sign Aries. What can we expect as Mars climbs his very own mountaintop once again to watch the sunrise over the crags and valleys of the ram?

Mars returns home

As each planet gravitates from sign to sign, subtle aspects of life on Earth shift accordingly. Martian transits shape the nature of our ambitions, physical drive and sexual urges. Martian power is sourced now from the primordial life-giving fires of the young, lusty ram. With Mars at home, we feel incredibly refreshed and invigorated. You’re going to wake up one day soon and say this! This is what I’ve been missing! Mars in Aries needs no incentive to leap out of bed, hike all day, make some scorching hot love and then do it all over. Get ready for a serious burst of physical and sexual energy. Unlike Mars in Pisces, this placement forces us to be less reflective and very active.

The battlefield ignites

Mars in Pisces was emotional, confusing and restless. Now Mars concerns himself again with areas of life that fall under the Divine Masculine: outward action, will power, recreation, competition, raw energy, direction and physical movement. If you found yourself resolving problems by means of internalization and passive aggression over the last few weeks, rest assured that conflicts will now be dealt with overtly and directly. Mars in Aries is just about as hot-blooded as you can get. Those of you who struggle to keep your cool in tense situations will have to try even harder now. Machismo and one-upmanship will be on full display for the next few weeks. Imbalanced Mars in Aries is trigger-happy, aggressive, reckless, forceful and potentially violent. If balanced, expect to feel sublimely energized from head to foot.

Titillation overdrive

You may now begin to cultivate a healthy new connection to your body. This might indicate a return to/establishment of a regular physical practice. Mars in Aries reminds us: it is absolutely crucial that we move and sweat every day! When it comes to sex - crave it, need it, can’t stop thinking about it, have to have it right now or I’m not going to make it through the day. This is why Aries is the sign of the ram; like the rest of the animals out there, we’ve got a one-track mind come springtime. Mars in Aries is simple and straightforward: sports, games and sex. We are no longer so inclined to talk and think about our hopes, wishes and deepest held beliefs - forget that, where’s the party and how fast can I get there? Aries energy is vast and molten, burning through space like a massive rainbow firework.

I expect that the pace of life will pick up considerably now. I’m personally very excited - feeling lazy and rundown all the time has proven to be quite challenging in its own way. Prepare to embark! It’s time now to make your own trails, cutting and chopping as you go. Mars in Aries marries creative prowess with unprecedented stamina and a dash of friendly competition.

To ascertain your personal Mars sign, click here. If you would like to know more about how this transit affects you personally, please contact me for more insight.

Mars enters Pisces - Jan 12, 2015

Mars transits Pisces from January 12, 2015 - February 19

Click here to learn about Mars. Click here to learn about Pisces.

For the last month or so, Mars the Warrior has been hurtling through fixed air Aquarius. Now more than ever, I am feeling so light and free. This Martian transit greatly helped me in many ways, and hopefully you as well. What can we expect with Mars moving into mutable water sign Pisces?

The warrior pauses to dream

As each planet gravitates from sign to sign, subtle aspects of life on Earth shift accordingly. Martian transits shape the nature of our drive, ambition and sexual urges. Mars’ power is sourced now from our fantasies and spiritual aspirations. Mars is far from comfortable in Pisces. Normally Mars rules cardinal fire Aries, the first sign in the zodiac realm; Pisces is the last sign - the crescendo, the grand finale, the dissolution of the many into One, the sweet silence of death, transformation and surrender. Mars in Pisces traps the archetypal warrior in the belly of the fishes: struggling, confused, writhing in a long, strange dream. This placement forces us to be quite un-Martian as we are now less active and more reflective.

Internal battles

Mars in Pisces is emotional, intuitive and perhaps restless, thanks to the mutable modality at play here. Usually Mars concerns himself with areas of life that fall under the Divine Masculine: outward action, will power, recreation, competition, energization, direction and physical bodies. Pisces, on the other hand, is utterly feminine and indirect - visualize two fish swimming in perpetual opposition, chasing tails through all of time and space. I expect that those who are imbalanced will feel stuck or frustrated, especially because Mars in Pisces will ask us to confront addictions, spiritual blocks and living in denial. More time may be spent now journaling, meditating or engaging in physical practices such as yoga which connect mind, body and spirit. Expect energy levels to run lower than normal.

Transcending normal reality

You may now begin to have exceptionally vivid dreams or experience some kind of new psychic/cosmic connection to your body. When it comes to sex, we crave transcendental contact with another. A simple roll in the hay won’t cut it now. We’re on the prowl for a connection that speaks to the innermost Self. We are more inclined now to talk and think about our hopes, wishes and deepest held beliefs. Pisces lives in the spaceless space, potentially/totally/gleefully disconnected from reality.

I expect that the pace of life will slow down considerably now. I’m personally very excited – there’s nothing better than diving confidently into the psyche when you’re armed with newfound faith in the Universe. So far the Capricorn season has fully delivered on its promise to push us into new ways of thinking, being and doing. Enjoy the next few weeks before Mercury Retrograde hits again…! Happy New Year to all and namaste.

To ascertain your personal Mars sign, click here. If you would like to know more about how this transit affects you personally, please contact me for more insight.

Mantra: life is but a dream

Mars enters Aquarius - Dec 4, 2014

Mars enters Aquarius on December 4, 2014 and will transit here until January 12, 2015

Click here to learn more about Mars. Click here to learn more about Aquarius.

For more than a month, Mars has been spinning through cardinal earth sign Capricorn. I observed in myself a strong compulsion to feel productive at all times and to regard my actions very seriously. At other times I felt stuck, lethargic. What can we expect with Mars moving into fixed air sign Aquarius?

The inner rebel steps up

As each planet gravitates from sign to sign, subtle aspects of life on Earth shift accordingly. Martian transits shape the nature of our drive, ambition and sexual urges. Mars’ power is sourced now from the collective. I visualize Aquarius energy as a bolt of lightning; a genius scientist; humankind’s infatuation with outer space; all things eclectic, eccentric and offbeat; a community working together innovatively and peacefully. Mars is the physical path, the plan on paper, the bullseye; we move quickly now on our chosen path so long as it allows us total freedom and independence. Unlike Capricorn, Aquarius totally rejects routine, predictability and methodology in favor of all-out rebellion. With the air element at play, expect the unexpected.

From Molly Hall:

This is a time when the individual stands out. But paradoxically, it’s also one of the best transits for group effort. Creative collaboration has an almost supernatural speed, as each is freed to act on a full range of wild ideas.

The unemotional approach

Aquarian energy can be cool and unemotional at times. We can use this to our advantage by approaching emotionally charged relationships with a more impersonal tone: by remaining detached, unconcerned with what or how things happen, we are able to remain in the present moment, free from the limitations of anger and sadness. We move through the day (potentially) erratically, doing a little bit of this then a little bit of that. You might feel oddly satisfied if you happen to shock others with your actions and behavior now. Expect to have a lot of physical and mental energy with this placement, especially with all of the Sagittarius light in our skies right now. We are in the mood to learn about everything and share it with everyone - I cannot emphasize this enough!

Some interpretations of Mars in Aquarius mention an interest in taboos and the appearance of bizarre sexual fantasies. However, I see these as belonging incontrovertibly to Scorpio. What we are more likely to observe is a rearrangement and expansion of social circles. Aquarius craves change; the water bearer is fearless, dynamic and spunky.

From Æternalight Astrology:

Mars in Aquarius is clear-sighted and unattached: after its journey through the ascensional, goal-oriented sign of Capricorn … [it’s] prompting us to assert ourselves and our uniqueness in the social world.

I expect that the pace of life will pick up considerably now. I’m personally very excited - the Mars in Capricorn transit moved too slowly for my taste. It’s so refreshing to see people in lighter moods now that we’re fully in the Sagittarius season. Enjoy this next week as the Moon rounds herself to fullness. Only three more weeks until the Winter Solstice!

To ascertain your personal Mars sign, click here. If you would like to know more about how this transit affects you personally, please contact me for more insight.

Mantra: my dreams are shared

Mars enters Capricorn - Oct 26, 2014

Mars enters Capricorn on October 26, 2014 and will transit here until December 4, 2014

Click here to learn more about Mars. Click here to learn more about Capricorn.

Mars has been rocketing through mutable fire sign Sagittarius since September 13, 2014. What would have been an otherwise lighthearted and exploratory period was largely overshadowed, in my opinion, by some other goings-on, such as Mercury Retrograde and the recent eclipses. I am confident that we can make up for lost time with this next transition. What can we expect with Mars moving into cardinal earth sign Capricorn?

As each planet gravitates from sign to sign, subtle aspects of life on Earth shift accordingly. Martian transits shape the nature of our drive, ambition, productivity and sexual urges. Mars’ power will be sourced now from the deep satisfaction culled from working hard for what we want. I visualize Capricorn energy as a punctilious office environment; a reliable, functional government; a family farm handed down through generations; a generous yet stern grandfather; a prodigious work force. We feel most confident now when we are businesslike: realistic and no-nonsense. Unlike Sagittarius, Capricorn embraces routine, predictability and methodology. With the earth element at play, expect physical energy to run low with this placement.

If you can find it in yourself to overcome inertia, Mars will be your best friend in tackling even your most intimidating projects and plans. We are sensible, resourceful and objective now; Capricorn rejects superfluousness in any form. We feel less flexible and more conservative, as is the nature of this cardinal sign. We keep moving forward, slowly but surely, meticulously marking our progress.

We are less inclined now to skip work and go adventuring. Our goals call to us - complete me, and quickly! We move through the day like a train on a track, coming and going with purpose, staying always within our prescribed boundaries. Putting in the hours to accomplish arduous tasks feels natural and painless, once we can get off the couch. Our focus now is on doing rather than learning. We have a destination and a way to get there. This is a golden opportunity to get a lot of good work done, as well as help others accomplish their own goals.

The shadow side of this transit may manifest as controlling behavior. The sea goat has a bit of a reputation for being domineering at times. Watch for unusually rancorous power struggles, particularly in the work place or with prominent male figures in your life. This transit is admittedly not very cheerful or lively on paper. However, it is important to remember that the sea goat derives fun and pleasure from being useful to society.

From Æternalight Astrology:

The raw Yang energy of this impetuous, fiery planet is here channelled through the Saturnian (Saturn rules Capricorn) medium of control and discipline, thus becoming intensely focused, typically goal-oriented … Mars in Capricorn is martial, industrious and practical, with little to no attention towards distractions.

Think of this transit as the Universe forcing you to buckle down and get serious, if only for a little while. As with all things, it’s only temporary. I have a feeling that the strong Scorpio energy channeled by the Sun, Moon and Venus will make this a rather solemn yet constructive month. It might be tempting to fall into workaholic / stress mode. Ask yourself: is this really worth my time and energy? Am I fretting unnecessarily?

To ascertain your personal Mars sign, click here. If you would like to know more about how this transit affects you personally, please contact me for more insight.

Mantra: self-discipline

Mars enters Sagittarius - Sep 13, 2014

Mars enters Sagittarius on September 13, 2014 and will transit here until October 26, 2014

Click here to learn more about Mars.

Until now, Mars has been in fixed water sign Scorpio since July 25, 2014. This period was a commingling of strong warrior essence and the transformative, probing energy of the scorpion. We were intensely driven and focused if balanced, or perhaps feeling caught in a whirlpool of obscurity. Sexual energy predominated. What can we expect now with Mars moving into mutable fire sign Sagittarius?

We begin to surface from the depths of our psychic well, reemerging on the scene with new wisdom and insight. Mars’ power will be sourced now from our goals and ideals. No longer do we dwell in the (sometimes) dark, uncomfortable caverns of the emotional body. Think of Sagittarius as a group of dancing people circling an enormous bonfire: joyous, animated, alive. During this transit you may begin to question whether or not you’ve gotten too comfortable. Sagittarius rejects routines and predictability. This energy is expansive and restless, like a new star blooming in the night sky. Mars normally rules cardinal fire Aries, so he is right at home here in a fellow fire sign. Expect to feel a rush of physical energy with this planetary placement.

I like to visualize this transit as a rainbow comet blazing through the darkness, gathering speed and understanding along the way. We are fearless, optimistic and forward-thinking. Our soul is relieved to be out of the woods and into the light. Here we feel more spontaneous and open, as is the nature of this mutable sign. The archer sees difficulties as hay bales in an obstacle course: no need to stress, just another hurdle to surmount with ease. We keep moving effortlessly, above and beyond.

Here we are called to be more adventurous. With Mars in Scorpio, we had a one-track mind. Now the tracks are multiplying, looping and crossing in every direction. We draw our power from the flexibility of the mental body and our constant desire to learn more, more, more! Through the acquisition of knowledge, we connect to all that is greater than the Self. Think of this transit as a rocket leaving Earth with an uncertain destination. Power up and prepare for the unexpected.

Our thirst now is for new experiences. Like the archer, we choose a target and take aim. And then, with the mind of a human and the legs of a horse, we gallop enthusiastically, full speed ahead. The shadow side of this transit manifests as being overly blunt and reckless. It is important to be honest, but not brash; daring, but not irresponsible.

All in all, spirits are soaring and we are in the mood to meet new people and have a good time. We are candid, sincere, forthright and maybe a bit fidgety. Remember to move clearly and calmly if need be. There is an art to learning when and where to speak our minds! It is easy to get carried away here - keep asking all the important questions and then be sure to listen. When we’re moving quickly, being forced to slow down can be so frustrating. However, if we fail to take our time, we might miss crucial details.

To ascertain your personal Mars sign, click here. If you would like to know more about how this transit affects you personally, please contact me for more insight.

YOGA CHALLENGE

Focus on hip and hamstring opening poses. I recommend a gentle wide-legged seated stretch keeping a straight spine, perhaps with a block under the sacrum if you are particularly tight here. Remember to engage the quads and knee caps and energetically widen the thighs back and apart. Consciously spiral the femurs up and back in the hip sockets. Flex the feet and relax the lumbar. Let the head and neck hang if this feels comfortable in your body. Hands may be passive in front of the body on the floor, or placed along the legs for support.

Mantra: I am opening

Mars enters Scorpio - Jul 25, 2014

Mars enters Scorpio on July 25, 2014 and will transit here until September 13, 2014

Click here to learn more about Mars.

Mars is a masculine planet ruling cardinal fire sign Aries. Until now, Mars has been in cardinal air sign Libra since December 7, 2013, which is highly unusual. The prolonged transit here was due to a retrograde period from March - May, causing the planet to remain in one sign for much longer than normal. Since Libra is the sign directly opposite Aries on the zodiac wheel, we say in astrology that Mars is in his detriment here. When a planet occupies the ruling sign, everything flows beautifully. In the detriment, it feels like we are pushing a boulder uphill when it comes to areas of life ruled by the planet. In short, things are about to get a lot easier. Keywords are action and initiative. Mars is pioneering, groundbreaking and potentially bloodthirsty.

With Mars in fixed water sign Scorpio, we have a one-track mind. This period heralds the commingling of strong, warrior-like Mars and intense, probing scorpion energy. We are driven to succeed and focused like a laser. Physical and sexual energy will be off the charts.

The depths of our emotions and collective existence are about to get even deeper. Mars’ power will be sourced from the emotional well. Normally Mars energy is concerned with more masculine pursuits. Think of a ram breaking through a wall: forceful, forward-moving, dynamic. I believe this transit will be especially powerful in more ways than one. During this transit you may see yourself and others begin to address things that have been repressed for a very long time. Scorpio energy is like stirring up silt on the bottom of a black pond - there’s a lot lurking beneath the surface. Big, scary things sometimes.

I like to visualize the transit as such: Mars is a fiery bow shooting a Scorpio arrow down into the darkness of the unconscious. We are willing and able to face whatever we find down there. Our soul recognizes the great importance of what lies before us and stands tall. Indeed we are drawn to trouble. The scorpion sees difficulties as opportunities for transformation. At this time we prefer extremity to nothing at all. We want to feel everything at once. Think of this transit as an inevitable jump into an icy lake. The shock of cold water is actually very good for you!

Mars and Saturn will now work in tandem in the sign of Scorpio.

To ascertain your personal Mars sign, click here. If you would like to know more about how this transit affects you personally, please contact me for more insight.