air

AQU

Full Moon in Aquarius ❍ July 31, 2015

The Full Moon in Aquarius comes exact on Friday, July 31 at 6:43 am EST

Click here to learn about the Moon. Click here to learn about Aquarius.

This full moon marks halfway between the Summer Solstice and Fall Equinox; it is known as Lunar Lammas. Lammastide is a traditional holiday in English-speaking regions of the Northern Hemisphere, falling upon the first harvest of the year. In more ways than one, this full moon symbolizes a reaping of the seeds we have sown. In the Great Lakes region, this phase is also known as the Full Sturgeon Moon because it coincides with abundant fish catches. The moon will rise at sunset, peak at midnight and set at sunrise.

The Sun and Moon in total opposition between fixed fire Leo and fixed air Aquarius: me vs we. The last full moon in Aquarius was a Supermoon in August 2014. Any themes/conflicts that predominated then will now resurface. The Leo cycle is ultimately an inward journey. Imagine yourself on this fiery quest. As the full moon rises, people gather from all directions on a mountaintop. Here we set aside our “stories” and sing as One.

Axis of identity

The Leo-Aquarius polarity works to achieve balance between the individual and the collective. Let’s meditate for a moment on the ruling planets of each sign, the Sun and Uranus respectively. The Sun emanates from the inside out, master of the ego / identity. Uranus is the rebel and nonconformist, dancing eccentrically to the beat of his own drum. On one end of the spectrum, we have regal Leo in his fullest expression: living through the heart, content to stay there without ever venturing beyond the confines of the Self. On the other lies Aquarius, wandering so far out in the cosmos that he struggles to cultivate awareness within. Leo lives in the here and now, in laughter, in the body, in the raw landscape of the ego’s unruly desires. The Full Moon in Aquarius yearns to explode outward, to use the Self as a vehicle for social empowerment on a global level.

Resisting the urge to talk/think/draw attention to the Self is more difficult during the Leo season. However, the Full Moon in Aquarius provides some respite from this tendency. Now we see through labels – color, class, nationality, gender, religion – and embrace the light of interconnectedness that shines within all beings, namaste: coalescence of the many into One. This transit brings to mind vision and prophecy. Breakthroughs will come quickly and without warning. The Aquarian mind is incredibly nimble and prone to tangents!

Not so tolerant after all

Opposite signs on the zodiac wheel have inherent differences, but they also have a lot in common. The balanced Aquarian possesses a self-assurance that the lion often lacks, despite appearances. However, this self-assurance all too easily turns to obstinance in the face of conflict. I have thus far described the water bearer as a relatively ego-less creature, but I’ve come to realize that the imbalanced Aquarian closely resembles his leonine counterpart: proud, forceful, totally blinded by the ego. My relationship to Leo is changing as a result of these recent revelations. Too much Aquarius energy makes life feel cold and unemotional; an overdose of Leo makes life feel too hot - think melodrama, unchecked passion, irrational emotional responses. I used to lean toward Aquarian ideals with the belief that the water bearer is more evolved and community-minded. And yet there is something beautiful in Leo’s rough, matter-of-fact reality, something that feels more genuine and intimate than the water bearer’s notorious aloofness.

Aquarius acquires an edge if he feels that his toes have been stepped on; altruism is rapidly replaced by dark shades of anger in the form of hard logic / “objective” intellectualization. The Full Moon in Aquarius may shut the heart down in favor of the left brain’s insistence on “rational” thinking. Aquarius loves spreading messages of social justice and equality to the rest of humanity. As such, he feels that his wisdom will revolutionize the world. Here we see again the fixed nature of Aquarius. The water bearer often struggles to understand other people; he is quick to judge and finds most people boring with no self-confidence or originality. We can properly channel this emotionally detached energy by remaining true to the Self, no bullshit.

The balanced water bearer weaves a universal story composed of many voices. If you’re feeling blocked, reach out to others who desire change. I suggest a ritual involving your community or circle. Hang in there. YOU are loved. Namaste.

If you are curious about how this transit affects you personally, please contact me for more insight. To ascertain your personal Moon sign, click here.

Mantra: humble

First Quarter Moon in Libra ☽ June 24, 2015

The 1st Quarter in Libra comes exact on Wednesday, June 24 at 7:03 am EST

Click here to learn about the Moon. Click here to learn about Libra.

The First Quarter marks halfway between the new and full moon. The first and last quarter occur when the moon aspects the Sun at a 90 degree angle. (Seen from above, the moon forms a right angle in relation to an invisible line running through the Earth to the sun, hence “square” for the name of this astrological aspect. Here the moon has completed 1/4 of her journey around the earth.) In this particular phase, the Sun in Cancer squares the moon in Libra. The moon will rise at noon, peak at dusk and set at midnight.

For those who are strongly affected by lunar energy, the quarter moon phases are especially trying. Square aspects are sharp, angular junctions that prompt change. As CafeAstrology notes, the quarter phases feel like a “crisis of consciousness.” Nearing the full moon is like creeping to the high point of a rollercoaster. Soon all undertakings will be realized and answers to lingering questions brought to the fore. We are encouraged now to examine all that was established with the New Moon in Gemini. The waxing moon symbolizes a return to total awareness. This is the best time to tweak and improve upon existing strategies. At every full moon we manifest new moon intentions; as such, the week between the first quarter and full moon (June 24 – July 1) is quite potent.

We have reached a corner and must choose a new direction. The building energy and excitement you feel is there to inspire you. The first quarter moon prompts decisive action, calculated risk-taking and deepened commitment to personal growth. The moon is asking you to gather yourself.

Diplomatic domain

The First Quarter Moon in Libra represents a conflict between external and internal life. I like to imagine each moon cycle as a procession of poignantly themed challenges. Generally speaking, the Cancer cycle seeks to empower the right brain. So here we are at the first stop along the crab path: a graceful encounter with Libra, classy diplomat of the zodiac realm. Libra, number seven in the wheel, is an auspicious sign with much to offer this world so full of strife and violence. The sign of the scale is associated with fairness, justice, equality and compromise. Let’s harness Libra power to better understand humanity’s capacity for unconditional love.

Cancer is the introverted homebody of the zodiac, and Libra her community-oriented mother, firmly and courageously defending the rights of all. What can Libra teach us to help the crab get out of the heart’s endless well and back to the voice of reason, back to the raw landscape of social reality? Imbalanced Cancers are so distracted by their own intense emotional responses to life that they may be unable to leave their own mindspace and connect properly with others. Libra exercises a rationality that the crab often lacks. If you’re feeling overwhelmed at any point during this transit, visualize the scales of Libra, glittering and golden, resting at perfect equilibrium.

Divine wind energy

The First Quarter in Libra connects us to air energy, something we are deeply familiar with after a lovely spin through Gemini. However, this transit is markedly more centered – indeed, Libra is a cardinal sign. Both Libra and Cancer are ruled by divine feminine planets, Venus and the Moon respectively. The purpose of this first quarter moon is to bring peace and harmony (Libra) to the emotional body (Cancer). Allow the Moon and Venus to work in tandem for you. Together they create a vortex of powerful goddess energy.

Balanced Libra have unmistakable joy for life. They love being around others and are adept at doing so. I expect that the transition from predominantly Gemini energy to easy, breezy Libra will be painless and lovely. This phase is connected to the Last Quarter Moon in Cancer of October 2014. Any themes that predominated then will now resurface. At this time the pull towards peace and harmony in the outside world speaks to our intuition while the occasional desire to stay home and do nothing speaks to the ego. I suggest meditation in an outdoor location with strong wind and/or balancing yoga poses. Namaste.

If you are curious about how this transit affects you personally, please contact me for more insight. To ascertain your personal Moon sign, click here.

Mantra: balance

New Moon in Gemini ⚫ June 16, 2015

The New Moon in Gemini comes exact on June 16, 2015 at 10:05 am EST

Click here to learn about the Moon. Click here to learn about Gemini.

Every new moon falls in the same sign as that of the Sun. This is precisely what makes it a new moon. Sometimes we end up with a new moon near the end of a cycle. That’s what we have, yet again, with the New Moon in Gemini.

Breath of freedom

I like the new moon at the end of a cycle. I think it serves as a baptism of sorts, a refreshing absolution of any fumbles we’ve made over the last few weeks. Visualize this New Moon in Gemini as a cool wind entering your mind, coming in through the ears, eyes, nose and mouth: a gentle breeze here to lift away what you no longer need or want. I suggest a ritual involving writing, spoken word poetry or a dynamic intention-setting conversation with a close friend or sibling.

The new moon is your chance to recreate. This phase is like an infant: impressionable, vulnerable and wide-eyed. How will you set the tone? What projects have you been meaning to launch? What changes need to be made? This is a time of beginnings, or perhaps going back to the start. Words, thoughts and actions that surface now are seeds planted for later harvest.

The Mercurial cycle winds down

The Gemini cycle this year has been emotionally taxing, in part due to Mercury Retrograde in Gemini, in part due to the rapid, exponential collective shift we are all experiencing here on Earth. I look forward to the peace and quiet of new moon energy. However, you may feel an energetic “letdown.” Imagine spending all day at an amusement park, twirling and whirling through space on bright rainbow rollercoasters. This new moon at the end of the cycle is like getting on the bus to go home - alone at last, resting, reflecting on all the fun you’ve just had. The changeover from busybody mercurial energy to the relative calm of this new moon may cause some to feel cagey, depressed or confused. I recommend lots of pranayama to balance the wind element - see Gemini Yoga for ideas.

Much of the Gemini cycle is designed as a lesson in mind-stilling. Gemini seems to perfectly embody a magnificent contradiction of external reality: although it appears fixed and solid, everything is in constant motion, right down to the molecules buzzing in your body at this very moment. The idea that we might somehow still the mind amidst all of this chaotic cellular activity seems ridiculous, impossible, laughable. Yet in this lifetime and the next and the next, this is our foremost task. Allow the twins to guide you down the twisting, turning path of equanimity. See the Self as an entity that also joyfully embodies this contradiction: stillness in motion. What you will find is that we are perpetually becoming rather than being - in this realization, infinite ecstasy.

Primordial wind

We are still in the primordial period of the astrological year, lest we forget. And that’s really what it feels like at the threshold of this new moon. I find myself bobbing in the whirlwind of my own strong Gemini essence – curious, wondering when things will pick up, insatiable restlessness in the seat of my soul. As Gemini is an air sign, it is important that we focus on the breath for this new moon. More precisely, let’s focus on the connection between breath and mind. Notice the way in which you breathe dictates, in part if not entirely, patterns of thought and perception. If you have the time and resources, find an outdoor location where the wind blows strongly. Meditate here.

Gemini is one of my favorite signs. During the Taurus season I spoke about being able to step back and see myself so clearly, too clearly. For the last few weeks, I’ve done the same thing, but this time it feels light and cleansing. The fixed earth energy of the bull was heavy indeed, but that’s just a distant memory now. I feel like a seedling traveling in an air current. There’s a bright, scintillating sensation all around that only twin energy can give us. Now that I’ve worked closely with children for the last year, I see that our astrological signature manifests at a very early age. Balanced little Geminis are buoyant, intelligent, dillydallying through timespace with apparent glee.

The New Moon in Gemini is ultimately an opportunity to cultivate tranquility within. If you seek happiness and comfort in the external world, you will only come to find that all you sense is merely a reflection of the Self. I’d like to return briefly to the idea of becoming with this quote: “What would it mean to begin always from the middle? To experiment with renouncing that lure of mastery with which definitive beginnings and endings seduce thought?” - L.B. Higgins, Becoming through Multiplicity (2011) You are loved. Namaste.

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

Mantra: stillness

Sun in Gemini ☼ May 21 - June 21

The Sun transits Gemini from May 21 – June 21 (Summer Solstice)

Click here to learn about the Sun. Click here to learn about Gemini.

Disclaimer: when talking about Sun signs, it’s really more accurate to say “the Earth’s relation to the Sun” since the Earth is the one moving. An appropriate name for this much-celebrated, often oversimplified astrological element would therefore be “Earth Sign.” Remember – you embody a whole soup of planets!

If you are a Gemini, now comes your Solar Return. With the Sun in Taurus for the last month, the energy around us was rather forceful. Yes, the bull can be graceful and supple like a tender young branch, but she’s a fighter deep down. It’s hard for Taurus to be loose and flexible. Internally, the bull is a geometric assemblage of hard edges and rough emotions. Life appears to her as short, uncomplicated and rather harsh. Taurus energy is slow, sweet and meandering, but perhaps the last month felt too slow. Prepare for life to pick up considerably over the next few weeks. Gemini epitomizes mutable energy.

Mercurial cycle

The Sun in mutable air sign Gemini marks the kickoff for the coming month and the official end of the Venusian cycle. Once again, I am personally exhausted. This last month was draining. I look forward to the return of mercurial energy in our skies. Gemini: the intellect, social butterfly and insatiable soul. In classic astrology Gemini is associated with communication, writing, speech and duality. This sign has an incredible amount of mental energy which usually spills over and manifests as fidgeting or nervous tics. Many Geminis are writers, poets and artists. When imbalanced, this sign is overly talkative, flighty or indecisive. Gemini is the first of the air signs in the zodiac realm, and generally speaking, signs that come early in the line-up struggle with the fundamentals. Out of all the signs, Gemini is undoubtedly the least calm. Let’s cultivate stillness in this upcoming cycle.

Gemini requires massive stimulation. You may find yourself juggling many interests, relationships and endeavors at once. What’s ironic is that Geminis themselves are often poor jugglers. You’d think otherwise, as the Gemini essence is pure quicksilver, but it seems that control and stability are hard to come by in the twin realm. This is why Geminis have a reputation for inconsistency. But this is how the twins operate - constantly in motion, always changing. We have moved thus far from the lava flow of Aries to the cooling, hardening stage of Taurus, and now we take a hammer and break it all apart. Watch the ashes lift with the wind, mingling and swirling like tiny birds, only to land once more in the ocean of Cancer: a cosmic tale of death and rebirth in the first stage of the zodiac realm.

The axis of knowledge

Studying the polarities of the zodiac wheel is an effective method to learn more about the signs. You may recall that mutable fire Sagittarius is Gemini’s opposite sign, 180 degrees across on the wheel. Gemini is Sagittarius’ crude yet vibrant predecessor; together they create the axis of knowledge. Whereas the centaur finds it difficult to focus intently on one thing, the twins tend to obsess. Gemini likes to linger, to hone in, to chase a thought and pin it down until nothing more can be extracted. Sagittarius wanders freely, dashing here and there, excitedly exploring, but the imbalanced Gemini stops and stutters, spins backwards, gets caught in hundreds of turbines, then does it all again. Our greatest challenge now is to emulate the centaur by taking an interest in that which is far away, physically or otherwise – anything that draws us out, away from home base. Speak your mind freely, spontaneously, fully, truthfully. Resist the fear of appearing unintellectual.

Geminis have a knowing, especially in the eyes. The twins are cunning, extremely intelligent, embodying a sort of sharp, swift energy. When balanced, Geminis are extraordinarily charming. Unlike any other sign in the realm, the twins have a way of communicating that instantly puts others at ease. This is where Gemini shines, in his ability to make others feel valued, supported and respected. The twins are endlessly curious, chatty and analytical. You may notice that even the pace with which you speak increases now. I hope that you will enjoy all the new friendships and excitable conversations that are about to enter your life. Outgoing though we may be, trust can be hard to earn now. The twins are certainly expert at meeting and chatting up strangers, but imbalanced Geminis are picky and struggle to form close, long-term relationships.

Winds of change

We’re still practically at the beginning of the the zodiac wheel, the first spring winds blowing seedlings around the soul’s forest floor. Earth to air…feel that transition viscerally, in your imagination and in your senses. For example: when I say “lemon,” you might instantly visualize bright yellow, a waxy rind, and your tongue may even constrict with imagined sourness. Now when I say EARTH, feel how it is damp, heavy, bursting with nutrients. Lay down in the mud. Now visualize this earth drying as a strong wind blows in from all directions: cool, gentle, tantalizingly refreshing. Lift your face to this breeze. Close your eyes, take a deep inhale. Feel your heart beating, breath drawing in. Smell the faraway scent of flowers embedded in these winds of change.

Indeed, I used to think of the Gemini soul as adventurous and adaptable, but I see now that this is often not the case. The twins have a comfort zone that they don’t particularly like to leave, simply because it is difficult for them to do so. These types easily become trapped in the mind. The Gemini vibration resembles a gyroscopic electrical storm. To alleviate interminably circling thoughts, the twins never sit still and feel cagey when they must. Ideal socioscapes now are those such as airports, train/bus stations, huge cities, clubs, packed bars, malls, public squares, etc - anywhere you can get lost in a crowd and perhaps become someone else. Gemini thrives on anonymity, fantasies, stranger danger, chameleon acts and endless traveling. Many with strong Gemini energy make odd first impressions – often they will not say anything or appear to ignore everyone! This is because they are feeling everything out with a quiet intensity. The ultimate Gemini dream is that someone will magically understand and appreciate this silence.

You may now frequently change appearances or take on new personas, even on a daily basis. A common fantasy is to travel the world and become a new person at each destination. Gemini also loves puzzles, word games, anything that honors proficiency in writing, reading or speaking. When playing games, expect to be unusually fast and witty. If imbalanced, it will be very difficult to calm down and be in the present moment. The mind wants to wander. All of this mental energy comes in very handy in academic or professional settings! If you can focus for long enough, you will absorb information quickly and systematically. Gemini is expert at processing new data and finding out where it fits. Be firm in your sense of Self. Step with confidence. You are propelled now by an unseen force. Let’s continue building for the year ahead. We still have wiggle room and countless new opportunities knocking. Namaste.

If you are a Gemini or would like to know more about how this transit affects you personally, please contact me.

Mantra: stillness

Mercury Rx in Gemini ♊ May 18 - June 11

Mercury will station retrograde in Gemini from May 18 - June 11

Click here to learn about Mercury.

We’ve discussed Mercury stationing retrograde starting May 18 and Mercury entering Gemini as of April 30. Let’s combine topics and wax poetic on the nature of Mercury Retrograde in this insatiable mutable air sign. Click here to learn more about retrograde motion.

As the word “retrograde” implies, this is a time when we go back to finish, review and redo. You may recall that the last Mercury Rx transit fell in Aquarius, the air sign following Gemini and Libra. After a stint in Gemini, this year’s next and final Mercury Rx will indeed fall in Libra, the other remaining air sign. This is how Mercury Retrograde moves through the zodiac realm, year after year. 2015 is the Mercury Rx year of the air element. Mercury Rx in Aquarius shined a light on our own organic brilliance and inner wisdom. What abundance will we receive from Mercury Rx in Gemini? With Mercury in Gemini, we return to areas of life connected to our social circle and intellectual pursuits. Unlike Aquarius, Gemini is a mutable sign, meaning that this period will appear to move more quickly and sporadically than the last.

Now is the time to break out of relationships/partnerships that have calcified over time and no longer serve you. Gemini is the sign of duality and twins. In particular, you may now focus on sibling relationships. This transit will also help you attain a new level of knowledge and creativity, especially in fields such as writing or everyday technology. Mercury Rx in Gemini presents an opportunity to harness the magic of communication and brainpower. At its core, Mercury Rx is all about change and there is simply no escaping! I like to think of Mercury in Gemini as a return to square one: hitting the reset button, returning to home base. This is actually a very auspicious placement for Mercury, as he rules Gemini; in astrology we say that this retrograde transit occurs “at home.” Keeping this in mind, have faith that the inevitable changes now hurtling at you full speed are ultimately there to help and center you.

Visualize a sharp and cunning wind blowing through your life, rearranging and readjusting all that needs attention. Mercury Rx in Gemini is vibrant and animated yet undeniably overwhelming. Gemini epitomizes the true essence of mercurial/mutable energy. If you resist becoming that which you already are, I expect that this transit will be difficult for you. All of the projects, goals and ideas dancing in your psyche are just waiting to burst forth in an explosion of color and heat. Holding a lid on all this mutable energy is like trying to direct the wind: futile and exhausting.

If I’m being honest, I’m slightly nervous about the potency of this transit, only because I have come to more fully understand the way in which the twins move in tight, concentric circles, never straying too far from the familiar. Gemini can be so detail-oriented that the big picture might get overlooked. To determine your Mercury sign and whether he was direct or retrograde at the time of your birth, click here. It is interesting to note that, if you were indeed born with Mercury Rx, you may not notice the effects above as strongly, if at all.

Mantra: change is good

Mercury Retrograde ☿ May 18 - June 11

Mercury turns retrograde in Gemini from May 18, 2015 - June 11

Click here to learn about Mercury. Click here to learn about Gemini.

About a month ago, I posted about Pluto turning retrograde. Click here to learn about retrograde motion. Mercury turns retrograde 3-4 times a year, more frequently than any other planet. Cool tidbit from EarthSky:

On Mercury, for example, the Sun sometimes moves in retrograde! As the planet speeds through its closest approach with the sun, its orbital speed overtakes its rotational speed. An astronaut on the surface would see the sun partially rise, then dip back below the horizon, then rise again before resuming its east-to-west trek across the sky. Once a year, Mercury gets two sunrises on the same day!

To be very clear, planets in retrograde are not actually spinning backwards – it is entirely an optical illusion as seen from Earth. Backwards motion appears to happen when Earth passes slower moving planets in the outer solar system. In astrology, this illusion manifests as a sort of “backwards” functioning of the planets and their roles. Mercury is concerned with communication and mental activity. Mercury aptly typifies the human mind: never static – constantly processing – always moving above and beyond, on to the next stimulus. Areas associated with this planet: travel, transportation, negotiation, bargaining, personal expression, technology and writing. When Mercury is retrograde, these realms are particularly affected.

Significant changes begin cropping up about 10 days before, at the dawn of what is known as the “shadow period” (starting this Friday, May 8). Think of it as a trial run, an opportunity to gauge what’s ahead. I have a feeling this Rx period will be more vicious than the last, but it’s too soon to say for sure. On the bright side, we will now go back and finish that which has been forgotten or ignored. I always get lots of great work done during this period :) Be on the lookout for: delays, cancellations/sudden changes to travel or social plans; technological failures, especially with cell phones, laptops or anything Internet-related; communication breakdowns; objects mysteriously disappearing or getting lost/stolen; a creeping feeling that nothing is going right no matter how hard you try; everything seemingly breaking, quitting, falling apart or malfunctioning for no apparent reason! Like many fellow astrologers, sometimes I find myself unnecessarily fearing or over-dramatizing Mercury Rx. With the power of the mind, we can and will have a successful transit. From astrologer Molly Hall:

I’ve come to see the expectation of mishaps as a meme that feeds on itself. That being said, I’ve had some wildly “as above, so below” Mercury retro experiences over the years. Like finding a water-soaked missing book on my neighbor’s porch, after Mercury came out of direct shadow in Pisces.

HOWEVER! I do not recommend making major purchases or signing significant (read: any) contracts/documents during this time. This is NOT – repeat NOT – a good time to make life-altering commitments or invest in major entities such as houses, cars or expensive vacations. Be extremely careful with both your words and your money. Despite all of the confusion and impaired decision-making, I see this transit as a lovely reminder of what’s good in life. Sometimes we need things to go wrong in order to see where we’ve become disorganized. Expect to do a lot of reflecting and/or journaling at this time– it may be difficult to express to others how and what you’re feeling, so it helps to have another outlet for your thoughts. Be compassionate and gentle with yourself and remember that we don’t have to make sense of everything right now. Keywords are review and adjust.

Meditation is strongly suggested, or at the very least some silent time set aside to look back on old work/plans that need attention. As stated, this is generally a very unfavorable time to start new projects for two reasons: it is quite possible that you will completely change your mind when Mercury turns direct again, even if you feel very strongly about something now; additionally, whatever you say or do now carries more weight than normal, so missteps will cost you greatly. Be aware and take precautions. Having said this, there is no need to suspend work or projects that are already in progress. What I’m speaking to now only applies to new endeavors.

One more silver lining, from CafeAstrology:

Minor breaks in the mechanical aspects of communication can actually re-connect us to other means of communication, such as when there is an unexpected power outage and we’re forced off the computer and television, finding different and often satisfying ways to entertain ourselves.

To determine your Mercury sign and whether he was direct or retrograde at your time of birth, click here. It is interesting to note that, if you were indeed born with Mercury Rx, you may not notice the effects above as strongly, if at all. If you are curious about how this transit affects you personally, please contact me for more insight.

Mantra: change is good

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.

Last Quarter Moon in Aquarius ☾ May 11, 2015

The Last Quarter in Aquarius comes exact on Monday, May 11 at 6:36 am EST

Click here to learn about the Moon. Click here to learn about Aquarius.

We now approach the Last Quarter, halfway between full and new, moon squaring Sun at 90˚. (Seen from above, the moon forms a right angle in relation to an invisible line running from the Earth to the Sun, hence “square” as the name for this astrological aspect. Here the moon has completed 3/4 of her journey around the Earth.) In this particular phase, the Sun in Taurus squares the moon in fixed air Aquarius. The moon will rise at midnight, peak at dawn and set at noon. If you view the moon at midnight, the Sun will be positioned directly beneath your feet. Staring at the moon during this time will align you so that you are looking right out (approximately) along the forward path of Earth’s orbit around the Sun ^__^

Squares mean change

The Full Moon in Scorpio ushered in conscious awareness, revelations and illumination of all that was hidden, lurking. Now we decide which information/ideas best serve us. The waning light of the moon represents gradual descent into darkness: a return to the proverbial womb. It is wise to launch new endeavors at a later date so as to better focus on the imminent. The week between the Last Quarter and New Moon (May 11-17) is the ideal time to buckle down and wrap up all that was set in place with New Moon #2 in Aries.

We have come to a corner and must choose a direction. Any stress or anxiety that surfaces now is there to catalyze decision-making. Gracefully surrender. Release and forgive. Destroy useless internal edifices. The moon is asking you to empty yourself. This phase falls in fixed signs, meaning that the most attractive path now is bold, defiant and sustainable. The entire Taurus cycle thus far has encouraged us to mold, shape and fortify – let this last week be your best yet, no holds barred, just a mega release of fearlessly novel and utterly glorious work. This phase is also connected to the First Quarter Moon in Taurus at the end of January – whatever themes predominated then will now resurface.

Aquarius: resident rebel

The Last Quarter in Aquarius represents a conflict between the mental body and the material world. The water bearer generates thoughts and conversation as rapidly as the wind. Taurus abides firmly in all that is tangible, as this is where the bull feels most comfortable. Aquarius is sometimes frustrated by the bull’s insistence on moving slowly and deliberately. And yet, Taurus asks of the water bearer: are your dreams and goals applicable? Are they feasible, considering the raw details of external reality? Both signs are headstrong in their own way. The water bearer doesn’t understand why the bull can’t be more experimental and unconventional. The bull in turn sees the water bearer as ungrounded, speeding through life with impatience, disconnected from what is. The challenge is to continue fanning the spark of intellect, allowing Aquarian energy to spiral into its fullest expression, while still tuning in to physical existence and the limitations thereof. From the water bearer we learn to be bold, radical and imaginative, and from the bull the art of practicality and stability. At this time the pull towards inventive/unorthodox experiences speaks to the heart while the need to be steady and rooted will feel more like a duty.

Aquarians are social creatures, so expect to mingle. These types will talk to anyone and everyone about anything. Because they are exceptionally candid and open-minded, Aquarians tend to adopt a detached demeanor. This is how the water bearer protects the spirit. This aloofness may be quite extreme, resulting in an aggressive philosophical debate or irreconcilable personality clash. It is important to see Aquarians’ rigid neutrality for what it is: a method, nothing more. Aquarians enjoy this detachment because it allows them to remain objective, centered and reasonable. The water bearer says no to tradition and yes to non-conformity. The moon asks now: where could you be more flexible, tolerant or open-minded? The Last Quarter in Aquarius craves transformation. Visualize this cycle as the winds of change. Energy levels bump up now - expect to feel animated, excitable and down for anything.

If you are curious about how this transit affects you personally, please contact me for more insight. To ascertain your personal Moon sign, click here.

Mantra: feet on the ground, head in the stars

Mercury at home in Gemini ☿ Apr 30 - July 8

Mercury transits Gemini from April 30 – July 8, 2015

Click here to learn about Mercury. Click here to learn about Gemini.

Mercury transits to mutable air Gemini after plodding through Taurus for the last couple weeks. I like to think of this transit as a return to square one, hitting the reset button, home base. Gemini epitomizes the true essence of mercurial/mutable energy. Mercury rules both Gemini and mutable earth Virgo. In astrology, we say that he is returning “home” now. Planets at home are auspicious placements.

Shrouded in veils

Mercury in Gemini takes everything very seriously. The Gemini soul is shrouded in veils - solemn, private, concerned. Yes, we are interested now in learning about everything and sharing insights with anyone who will listen; Mercury in Gemini means long, meandering conversations that cover a whole banquet of topics. And yet the twins move in tight, concentric circles, never straying too far from the familiar. Gemini can be so detail-oriented that the big picture might get overlooked.

Mercury in Gemini will make you want to travel, move or go (back) to school. Even if you stay put, expect this transit to manifest as conversation overload! Mercury in Gemini is endlessly curious, chatty and analytical; you may notice that even the pace with which you speak increases now. Despite this motormouth propensity, Gemini is cautious and discreet. When imbalanced, the twins fear offending others. To counteract this, Geminis employ excellent tact and keep the true Self well guarded. As you might imagine, this is what gives Gemini his notorious air of aloofness. What I’m trying to say is that it’s very important now to stay relaxed and candid. Don’t worry so much about how others perceive you or what you say.

Digging the hole deeper

You may recall that Mercury transited the twins’ opposite sign (Sagittarius) at the end of November 2014. Any themes that predominated then will now resurface. Both Sagittarius and Gemini like to exaggerate, but for entirely different reasons. Mercury in Sagittarius spins tall tales for his own amusement and that of others - all in good fun, you might say. The imbalanced Gemini exaggerates simply because he talks so much and (often) with dramatic effect that he is forced to cover up, go back on his word or otherwise add one story on top of another, in the process only continuing to talk more, digging the hole ever deeper!

Whereas the centaur finds it difficult to focus intently on one thing, the twins tend to obsess. Gemini likes to linger, to hone in, to chase a thought and pin it down until nothing more can be extracted. Mercury in Sagittarius wanders freely, dashing here and there, excitedly exploring, but the imbalanced Gemini stops and stutters, spins backwards, gets caught in hundreds of turbines, then does it all again. Our greatest challenge now is to emulate the centaur by taking an interest in that which is far away, physically or otherwise - anything that draws you out, away from your proverbial home base.

Nervous energy

We must actively combat insincerity with Mercury in Gemini. This is not to say that the Gemini soul is phony by nature. In fact, there is something undeniably raw about Gemini. The twins’ words and actions are like unedited manuscripts, full to bursting with little notes and additions and hurriedly scrawled advice. To the untrained eye, Geminis appear calm, cool and collected. Yet hiding just under the surface of this carefully manicured facade is a bundle of nervous energy. Many Geminis willingly admit that they don’t like staying in relationships, jobs or physical locations for very long. As they are infatuated with mystery, Geminis very quickly become intrigued by people and things, but just as quickly as these feelings arise, the twins are known to drop them as though nothing ever happened.

I used to think of the Gemini soul as adventurous and adaptable, but I’m starting to see that this is often not the case. Geminis have a comfort zone that they don’t particularly like to leave, probably because it is simply difficult for them to do so. These types easily become trapped in the mind. The Gemini vibration resembles a gyroscopic electrical storm. Mercury in Gemini will require massive stimulation of the mind as a way to alleviate interminably circling thoughts. We are asked now to work on communication basics and cerebral pursuits. If balanced, expect to feel bubbly and animated. Mercury in Gemini is also unapologetically charming and flirtatious.

If you were born with Mercury in Gemini, these next few months will be a Mercury Return for you. If you don’t know your personal Mercury sign, click here. To learn more about how this transit affects you personally, please contact me for more insight.

Mantra: stillness

Venus in Gemini ⚢ Apr 11 - May 7

Venus spins through Gemini from April 11 – May 7, 2015

Click here to learn about Venus. Click here to learn about Gemini.

Venus now moves from Taurus into mutable air Gemini. Venus embodies the Divine Feminine: romance, beauty, pleasure, happiness and fine art. As she spins from sign to sign, changes take place within the heart. Venus concerns attraction: what vibes are you exuding and what attracts you? If Venus in Taurus was like building a house with the one you love, Venus in Gemini is the first intellectual conversation with your lover. After settling in and taking stock, we’re ready to move from body to mind.

For the last month or so…

Venus in Taurus was as stubborn as she was sensual. This transit kind of felt like walking upright for the first time: exciting in a fundamental way, but definitely a bit wobbly. Resisting urges and impulses was especially difficult as Venus was a lavish goddess while at home in Taurus. I observed during this transit that my inner child was alive and well. Just as children willfully deny those details of external reality which challenge their dream-like conception of the world, the bull digs in her hooves and shakes her horns: no! I do not accept! And in the same way that children move through the world as simultaneously selfish and innocent creatures, the imbalanced bull lollops along peacefully without regard for the needs of others. Earth energy sits heavy yet sweet: full, juicy, bursting with promise. I like to visualize Venus in Taurus as young lovers in a fierce embrace. She was tactile when balanced, materialistic when taken to the extreme. What to expect now as the Goddess of Love whirls into the realm of the twins?

Buzzing minds

The move now is from an indulgent heart to a curious one. It took me a long time to understand Gemini and I’m still grappling with this intense sign. I used to think of the Gemini soul as adventurous and adaptable, but I’m starting to see that this is often not really the case. Geminis have a comfort zone that they don’t particularly like to leave, probably because they easily become trapped in the mind. When I am around other Geminis, I sense a vibration that resembles a gyroscopic electrical storm. The twins are constantly in motion: busy, buzzing, worrying, searching, pondering, frenzied! The karmic purpose behind incarnation as a Gemini is to find peace within. Venus in Gemini will require massive stimulation of the mind as a way to alleviate interminably circling thoughts. We are asked now to work on communication basics and cerebral pursuits. If balanced, expect to feel bubbly, chatty and animated. Venus in Gemini is unapologetically charming and flirtatious.

The axis of knowledge

You may recall that Venus transited the twins’ opposite sign (Sagittarius) back in November 2014. Themes that surface now are a reflection of our progress since then. Gemini and Sagittarius are both restless, seeking. Venus in Sagittarius is jolly and dynamic; Venus in Gemini can be equally buoyant as long as we remain open to trying new things. Sagittarius sparkles, gliding forward effervescently in time and space, never dwelling; Gemini tends to linger, to hone in, to chase a thought and pin it down until nothing more can be extracted. The trick is to keep moving. Focus on being as extroverted as possible. The more we share and co-create, the more we expand. If imbalanced, we may settle, close the mind, build walls or fool ourselves into believing that we’ve seen all there is. Sagittarius wanders freely, dashing here and there, excitedly exploring, but the imbalanced Gemini stops and stutters, spins backwards, gets caught in hundreds of turbines and then does it all over again.

Gemini wants to get well acquainted with so-called reality. The twins love to pick apart everything that happens to/around them. Whereas Venus in Sagittarius is escapist and in denial when imbalanced, Venus in Gemini thinks way too much, caught up in the mind’s incessant squabbling. The centaur wants to see the best in everyone and everything, always the optimist, but the twins are inclined to critique, to find a way to know the truth rather than hope for something more idealistic. Venus in Gemini can be secretive and calculating. Resist the urge to judge, exclude, deceive or assume - there is much to be gained from emulating the centaur’s firm moral code. Venus now encourages us to consider – do my thoughts and inner life harmonize with my external social life?

Resisting flakiness

In her natural habitat, Venus enjoys a certain level of bounty and luxury. In Libra, she plays the part of peaceful diplomat, master of balance and fairness. In Taurus, Venus reclines. What abundance can Venus in Gemini provide? What becomes scarce? When the Goddess of Love intertwines with the twins, we are showered with unprecedented creative and social energy. Outgoing though we may be, trust is hard to earn now. Ideal socioscapes for Venus in Gemini are those such as airports, train/bus stations, huge cities, clubs, packed bars/malls, public squares, etc. Anywhere the twins can get lost in a crowd and perhaps become someone else - this is where the heart lives now. Gemini thrives on anonymity, fantasies, stranger danger, chameleon acts and endless traveling. The connections we’re looking for now are fleeting yet powerful, such as when we wave or smile at an attractive stranger.

Venus in Gemini is hard to satisfy because she requires so much. The heart and mind of the twins is voracious, which is why these types like to juggle many interests, relationships and endeavors at once. What’s ironic is that many Geminis are poor jugglers. You’d think they’d be expert multitaskers, as the Gemini nature is pure quicksilver, but it seems that control and stability are hard to come by in the twin realm. This is why Geminis have a reputation for inconsistency, flakiness and fear of commitment.

Although Venus in Gemini is community-oriented and truly loves meeting others, there is an unmistakable air of privacy to this transit. We desire getting to know others as long as we may keep the Self shrouded in mystery. Aha - this is the paradox of Venus in Gemini. Geminis are very adept at reading thoughts, body language and voices. The twins have an uncanny ability to readily identify what makes others tick. These insights, however, are often immediately distorted by Gemini’s insistence on analyzing everything to death! Be sure to routinely step out of the internal world and into your surroundings.

To find out your personal Venus sign, click here. If you are curious about how this transit affects you personally, please contact me for more insight.

Mantra: stillness