Capricorn

the birth of venus

Venus in Capricorn ⚢ Jan 23 - Feb 16

Jan 23 – Feb 16, 2016

Click here to learn about Venus. Click here to learn about Capricorn.

Venus in Sagittarius started off splendidly. People were light and social for the first time in awhile, but then Venus’ jubilant little fire dance was drowned out by other more powerful planetary influences. I’m going to repost these lines from Rumi’s poem titled Tattooing in Qazwin because god damn they were very appropriate: “Brother, stand the pain. / Escape the poison of your impulses. / The sky will bow to your beauty, if you do. / Learn to light the candle.”

I’ve had a revelation that the Goddess of Love is just the one we need to channel the sea goat’s unrelenting lessons.

An ode: O Venus, gentle soul, we eagerly await your graceful entry. Soothe our weary hearts, bathe us in soft light. Fold us in to understanding, support, recognition, unconditional love for Self and others. Please bring peace to the women of this aching planet. Great uniter of yin and yang, wash away our anger. In eternal bloom, creating unto Creation, draw us in to the breast of Shakti and Ishtar.

I hope - I think - I believe - that Venus in Capricorn will reveal the child inside every bloodthirsty warrior. Even the most savage of beings were once tiny infants crying for mother’s milk. This information is not novel - no, this is all about remembering. The rate of change on this planet is entirely dependent upon the rate at which we remember.

The purpose of all this remembering is to bring us back down to earth - let the clay cool from the kiln, little starseeds. Become fully grounded again, reconnected to your foundation. Venus in Capricorn will demonstrate what to do with all this cold hard pragmatism lying around like cinder blocks. It’s not meant for rampant calcification of the heart, that’s for sure. Let’s settle down, settle in, but without judgment. Venus in Capricorn treats life like business or school. This is not to say that we are impersonal or objectifying, just cautious, steadfast, intelligent, clearheaded.

Seems like we’re all trying to figure out how to be superhuman right now, invincible to everything and everyone, but you know what? This very noble quest is bound to fail again and again if we keep beating ourselves up every time we stumble. Venus in Capricorn will teach us how to employ incredible emotional strength by way of self-compassion. There is nothing more sexy or critically important than this kind of resolve.

That loud inner realist begging for truth has been trailing the wrong mentor. Who could navigate the steep cliffs of the Divine Masculine better than Venus, ultimate cosmic woman born from starry depths? Who else could find such infinite beauty in the most jagged of planes? If you’re truly prepared, the people who enter your life now will all come together to support you on this arduous journey. But if you want others to be loyal, reliable, ready to commit to your cause, then step up and be that for yourself first. Tear it down, who gives a shit, and begin again with utmost sincerity.

Emotionally charged issues will suddenly lose their power. We will easily express ourselves now without succumbing to martyrdom or moodiness. Self-confident, independent, no praise necessary to keep moving. In fact, you may have an overwhelming desire to do everything by yourself. This is structure and management done right. Let’s clean up, babies. I suggest copious meditation and some Capricorn Yoga.

If you were born with Venus in Capricorn, this month is your Venus Return. If you don’t know your personal Venus sign, click here.

Mantra: I create my reality

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New Moon in Capricorn 🐐 Jan 9, 2016

Saturday, Jan 9 at 8:30 pm EST

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

Greetings earthlings and HAPPY NEW YEAR! It’s 2016, woooo!

Thus far the greatest challenge of this year’s Capricorn cycle is overcoming inertia, but this new moon will tap in to the more industrious side of the sea goat. The last New Moon in Capricorn fell on the winter solstice of 2014. Any themes/conflicts that predominated then will now resurface.

This cycle started with a New Moon in Sagittarius and that may be why, despite feeling inspired, we’re also feeling a little escapist when it comes to actually getting off the couch and accomplishing something. The Capricorn season is a time to relax, eat lots of food, indulge in materialism and enact a series of beloved rituals, but the sea goat is also known for his impressive work ethic and I’d love to call that in now.

The moon is in her “detriment” in Capricorn, as this is the sign opposite the sign she rules, which would be Cancer. When a planet is in the sign of its detriment, the planet is at its weakest and life is generally more challenging. In Capricorn the moon is strained, unaccustomed to the sea goat’s rigidity, preferring instead the warm, nurturing waters of the emotion-ocean where she normally abides. So! have compassion for yourself if you have mood swings or unusually low energy. Your inclination to stay home and meditate is perfectly natural :)

The Sagittarius cycle leapt into the unknown. Armed with new inner wisdom, we’re ready to apply it in external life. Capricorn’s mantra is I use. The days leading up to this new moon will be crucial – are you going to prepare on your own, or will you be presented with a massive workload reeking of procrastination? No rapid manifestation here - the goat moves slowly and deliberately. When imbalanced, this is the solid and stagnant force we feel so acutely in our bones. Capricorn is also very tactile; as an earth sign, he needs to touch and feel.

A couple weeks of sloth, thoroughly entrenched in the raw matter of our bodies burning in space, deep enough to make us really appreciate blood flow – and then blissful surrender to Capricorn’s mighty haul up the mountain. Earth is, by nature, heavy and resistant to change. Visualize new sprouts growing in a fire-ravaged forest, pushing up to reach the sunshine. We can connect to the earth and still be light ^____^

If imbalanced, you might feel stuck, stubborn, dragging along. The astrology lately has been difficult; I talked in my post on Mercury Retrograde in Capricorn about some of the challenges we’re facing at this time. To recap, the Capricorn cycle revolves around masculinity. Capricorn represents the Father and all authority figures. The purpose of this new moon is clearing any blockages here. We must all acknowledge, incorporate and enact the highest expression of the Divine Masculine. Any change happening in your personal life in this respect is a reflection of a current worldwide shift: return to the worship of Shakti.

Letting go, living spontaneously, breaking the rules - these do not come naturally to Capricorn. But good ol’ Cappy reels us back to center so that life may operate smoothly and efficiently. The new moon in Capricorn asks: where in life do you need more self-control? I feel her rising dark and silent in our sky with a very clear message. This phase doesn’t feel light, rather serious actually, but that doesn’t mean that we can’t find joy; it’s an earthy joy, joy that comes from grounding into reality, from work, from true release, from winter and cold and loneliness, from closing our eyes, from bones creaking, moving inexorably forward despite these ghostly hands tugging at our feet. Get out and breathe the crisp air, even if low gray clouds cover the sun, dense and ancient, even if it’s freezing, even if you’re tired, depressed - you are STILL infinitely loved and supported by the earth and she would love to see you :)

For the new moon, try some Capricorn Yoga.

To ascertain your personal Moon sign, click here.

Mantra: return to order

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Mercury Retrograde in Capricorn 🐐 Jan 8 - 25

January 8 - 25, 2016

Click here to learn about Mercury.

Mercury turns retrograde 3-4 times a year, more frequently than any other planet. 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. Click here to learn more about retrograde. In astrology, this illusion manifests as a “backwards” functioning of the planetary roles. Mercury is concerned with communication and mental activity. Think travel, transportation, negotiation, bargaining, personal expression, technology, writing. When Mercury is retrograde, these realms are therefore particularly affected. There is no need to suspend work or projects that are already in progress. Mercury Rx only applies to new endeavors.

Significant changes begin cropping up about 10 days before during the “shadow period” (starting today, Saturday, Dec 26). This shadow period is a trial run, an opportunity to gauge what’s ahead. We will now finish that which has been forgotten or ignored. I always do great work during this cycle. Be on the lookout for delays, cancellations, sudden changes to travel or social plans; technological failures, especially with cell phones, laptops or anything connected to the Internet; communication breakdowns; disorganization, confusion and impaired decision-making; objects mysteriously disappeared or lost/stolen; general breaking, quitting, falling apart or malfunctioning for no apparent reason!

I do not recommend making major purchases or signing significant (read: any) contracts/documents during this time. This is not a good time to make life-altering commitments or investments such as houses, cars or vacations. Despite all of this, I see Mercury Rx cycles as lovely reminders of what’s good in life. It may be difficult to express to others how and what you’re feeling, so it helps to have an outlet such as a journal for your thoughts.

We’ve discussed Mercury in Capricorn as of December 9. Let’s combine topics and wax poetic on the nature of Mercury Retrograde in this cardinal earth sign. There will also be four days of Mercury Retrograde in Aquarius directly preceding this cycle.

Mercury in Capricorn broaches issues of masculinity, perhaps directly with male figures. The purpose of this retrograde cycle is resolution to any communication barriers in this realm. For those who embody strong masculine energy, this may be a time of honest self-reflection. And even for those with mostly feminine energy - we all have a responsibility to acknowledge, incorporate and enact the highest expression of the Divine Masculine. Mercury Rx in Capricorn asks whether we’ve harnessed this power for the greatest good.

I’m struggling, especially right now in the middle of this transit, to integrate yin and yang. I am often tempted to channel all masculine energy in my psyche as pure anger, but this is neither fair nor healthy. Part of my own journey is obviously learning enough about the other half of Existence to love and appreciate it in the way that I do the Divine Feminine. In particular this retrograde cycle examines father, male partner or authority figure relationships. Capricorn’s mantra is I use, and with Mercury the Communicator here, we tend towards ultra pragmatic language, no frills, no sentiment. This is where we see an imbalanced portrayal of masculinity as cold, ruthless, concerned only with applicability - what can others do for me? Let’s just say that if there are conversations that need to happen, they may not be very warm and fuzzy. We’ll have no problem getting our point across with a delivery that’s curt and business-like.

In the public sphere I think we’ll see conservative politicians making especially painful gaffes about women’s rights and/or work-related topics as Capricorn also rules careers, reputation, prestige, status and success. Or maybe it will happen right at your own dinner table! Mercury Rx in Capricorn is a mini exhibition of what we’re seeing daily on a global scale with Pluto in Capricorn. I think we can all agree that there is a serious imbalance between feminine and masculine energy on our planet and has been for millennia. Remember that any change happening in your personal life in this respect is a reflection of a current worldwide shift, a return to the worship of Shakti. May you be as calm as you are strong. Peace to you.

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

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Sun in Capricorn ☼ Dec 21 - Jan 20

Dec 21, 2015 – Jan 20, 2016

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

Disclaimer: The Sun sign is a much-celebrated, often oversimplified astrological element. Remember – you embody a whole soup of planets!

Ever since Venus moved into Scorpio a few weeks ago, I’ve been emotionally exhausted. And, once again, I underestimated the power of the Sagittarius cycle and its real purpose, which would be the illumination of TRUTH. This insane little planet hurtling through space seems to be fraying quickly. Every day we descend exponentially deeper into a pool of chaos and violence. More than ever before it’s imperative that we SHINE our light. We’re settling in to the upper echelon of the zodiac wheel, next stop Capricorn. Deep breaths now, rest your bones here awhile.

Sagittarius and Libra both turned it up a notch this year. Just when you think you know what’s coming, these celestial entities grabbed me by my soul’s collar and said NOPE, try again, my friend. So I’m feeling a little more drained than I thought I would be at this point, but who doesn’t love surprises eh?

The Capricorn cycle heralds the Divine Masculine. As an earth sign, Capricorn also grounds and stabilizes us in whatever/wherever we happen to be in life. Since he is the last earth sign of the zodiac wheel, I see this phase as resolute culmination, the last pouring of the concrete, if you will. Capricorn is ruled by Saturn, the iron fist of the solar system. The sea goat is therefore often one to believe that things absolutely must be done a certain way. More precisely, they must be done the conventional way. You may notice that the people who enter your life at this time are hung up on this notion. Capricorn understands better than anyone that we do our best work when we are deliberate yet efficient, but the greatest challenge now is simply remembering to smile and shake it off. It is very important to keep it light during this cycle.

The sea goat enjoys deep conversations as long as the subject material is not too intangible. I like to visualize this cardinal sign as an axis, a foundation, the face of a clock - anything that draws us to what is. Capricorn is a realist. What could or should be does not interest the goat. There is certain comfort in knowing what to expect and planning accordingly. You can see why the goat has a reputation for being a little boring. This stiffness stems from the way Capricorns carry themselves, as they are not prone to being bubbly or outwardly emotive. This is not to say that Capricorns don’t like to party – if anything, they go really hard and then feel the most guilty about it.

Watch for a tendency to be critical of the Self and others. Capricorns set the bar high then struggle to understand why everyone else can’t keep up. The goat would do well to have more empathy and compassion for the Self. Embrace structure and discipline as worthy tools for reorganizing your life and providing a bit of direction, but don’t ignore your heart in the process.

Unlike Sagittarius, the goat is willing and able to move slowly…maybe too slowly. If you are like me and have heavy earth energy in your chart, this time of year probably signals hibernation. Like clockwork, when the Sun moves into Capricorn, I hit the sheets bear-human style. Overcoming inertia…not impossible, but pretty damn close.

This is the time of year to just DO IT – no second thoughts. Dive right in. Whether that means welcoming some discipline into your life or surrounding yourself with people who embody the positive qualities of the sea goat, smile and accept this gift knocking at your soul’s door. Of course this is also Christmastime for many humans around the world. What better way to honor the sea goat’s love of tradition and ritual than by enacting our own, year after year? My only prescription is surrender through laughter. Open up, everyone. We’re still here, trying to figure this shit out. Big belly laughs. Put your feet up next to the people you love. Wrap yourself in a huge furry blanket by the fire.

The Sun last transited Capricorn from Dec 21, 2014 – Jan 20, 2015. Any themes/conflicts that predominated then will now resurface.

Mantra: rest your bones

penny

Mercury in Capricorn ☿ Dec 9 - Jan 1

Dec 9, 2015 – Jan 1, 2016

Click here to learn about Mercury. Click here to learn about Capricorn.

In my recent post on Mercury’s transit in Sagittarius, I wrote about the centaur archer as a blunt and honest creature. Well hot DAMN he did not hold back this year folks! The name of the game these last couple weeks has most definitely been Truth. Bombs were dropped and some friendships ended, but we’re moving on with Mercury now entering Capricorn, first planet of the season to do so. The sea goat is one beast I’m still trying to better understand. Capricorn’s mantra is I use, so with Mercury here, we examine the applicability of our thoughts and words. Definitely less exciting than Sagittarius, but I’m not complaining about that.

One thing I have observed about Capricorn is his innate ability to carry on, carry on, carry on. The sea goat climbs with sure, steady feet up the mountainside. Ruled by Saturn, all-business-and-no-games boring uncle of the zodiac, Capricorn struggles to free himself, and what’s holding him down could be anything. This means that the tightness and constriction may all be in the head. In any case, there’s something rigid in the sea goat’s psyche. The sea goat finds infinite comfort in structure and discipline, and he both admires and emulates those in positions of authority.

The sea goat does not like to take risks, as these inevitably lead (if only in his mind) to a long and painful fall. Detecting a theme here? Many of the restrictions that we talk about with Capricorn originate from the goat himself. Don’t be so hard on yourself, Cappys. When I visualize this sign, I feel a strain in my body. The goat sets and maintains extremely high standards, both for the Self and others. One of the greatest challenges for Capricorn is to lighten up! Don’t be so critical of everything (read: the Self)! Although you may feel like you will “lose everything” in saying the wrong thing, this is an illusion. What you should say is not always what you need to say.

Mercury in Capricorn leaves no room for sentimental anecdotes, wishy-washy ideals or rambling tangents. This is a good time to get organized and refocus on projects/plans/goals that have been ditched in favor of wild Sagittarian adventures, although this may feel impossible considering the insane pace of this year. I promise that the rhythm of life will slow as we wade deeper into the Capricorn season. I like the sea goat because he is deliberate and cautious - maybe too cautious sometimes. He’s not racing ahead to the next most enticing thing. The sea goat prefers to study. I visualize Mercury in Capricorn as an enormous library with heavy wooden paneling, thick carpets and thousands of intricate volumes. Here we want not only to know, but to know how.

Capricorn has a reputation for being old-fashioned. This is not how I would describe Mercury in his natural habitat. As a result, you may feel stuck when it comes to communicating your heart. The sea goat is not prone to open emotional expression so just SAY IT. Capricorn reels us back to center with his overwhelming need for life to operate smoothly and efficiently. He’s the proverbial father figure instilling order to the chaos. Focus on contraction: ask yourself where and when life feels excessive or out of control. This should all be a welcome change, although you may feel like life is giving you constant reality checks. This is not a particularly social phase but you can expect others to be conventionally polite, even hesitant.

Mercury last transited Capricorn from Dec 16, 2014 – Jan 4, 2015. Any themes/conflicts that predominated then will now resurface.

If you were born with Mercury in Capricorn, these next few weeks are your Mercury Return. If you don’t know your personal Mercury sign, click here.

Mantra: I mean what I say

Full Moon in Capricorn ❍ July 1, 2015

The Full Moon in Capricorn comes exact on Wednesday, July 1 at 10:20 pm EST

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

All that we aspired to during the Cancer cycle now comes to culmination. This particular full moon was called the Full Buck Moon by the Algonquins of North America as it coincides with new antler growth on young male deer. It is also sometimes called the Thunder Moon in recognition of summertime storms. The moon will rise at sunset, peak at midnight and set at sunrise.

The Sun and Moon are now in total opposition between cardinal water Cancer and cardinal earth Capricorn: divine feminine vs. masculine energies. You may recall that we had a Full Moon in Cancer in the first week of 2015. We have now reached the other end, a reversal of the Cancer-Capricorn axis. Any themes/conflicts that predominated then will now resurface.

Moon vs. Saturn

The Cancer-Capricorn polarity works to achieve balance between what we feel and what is expected of us. Let’s meditate for a moment on the ruling planets of each sign, the Moon and Saturn respectively. The Moon looks out for the heart; they are really one and the same – deeply internal and categorically personal. Saturn is the iron-fisted patriarch of the zodiac, always on the straight and narrow, continually holding himself to society’s highest standards. On one end of the spectrum, we have loony Cancer in her fullest expression: delightfully irrational, following her heart all over the cosmos without hesitation, lost in her inner ocean. On the other lies Capricorn, so bound up in his own ideas of what should be that he never feels real freedom. Cancer abides in dreams, in feeling, in the raw landscape of the heart’s unruly desires. The Full Moon in Capricorn yearns to sweep it all together and make something out of it, to build something solid that feeds the soul’s thirst for structure and order.

The Moon rules Cancer, so we are currently swimming through the annual “lunar cycle.” As such, the full moon falling in this cycle is usually a trying time - why? Yes, the Moon is at her utmost peak, exercising goddess righteousness o’er all the Earth. Yet paradoxically, this is what precisely what makes her most uncomfortable. She prefers to operate behind the scenes, quietly moving from one phase to the next and working her magic on the internal body. The Moon does not plan or prepare, so when she is shoved into the spotlight, she doesn’t quite know what to do.

Inward journey

Opposite signs on the zodiac wheel have inherent differences, but they also have a lot in common. Cancer and Capricorn both seek security. The crab and sea goat feel a soul longing to put down roots and get settled early in life, whether physically or emotionally. Too much Cancer energy makes life feel like an out-of-control emotional rollercoaster where we cling fiercely to cloying comforts with sharp pincers. Too much Capricorn makes life feel rigid, with the mind seated firmly in the external world. The crab reminds the sea goat that it’s unhealthy for body and spirit to lean so heavily on what is, or perhaps more accurately, what appears to be. This leaves us unwilling or unable to relax and allow room for uncertainty and the joy found therein. And yet the sea goat reminds the crab that there is much to be gained from even the most rudimentary form of self-discipline.

To say that the Cancer-Capricorn polarity is between the heart and the head is an oversimplification. A more accurate delineation: Cancers see the heart as an organic and integral source of information, as do Capricorns, but the goat struggles to collate what he feels versus what he thinks he should feel. The Cancer cycle is an inward journey. Imagine yourself on this watery quest, now halfway to your core. As the full moon rises, a vibration gathers from all directions to meet in the middle of the ocean. Here we are clairvoyant, full of psychic wisdom, fearlessly tuning in to the flow of energy all around us. The Full Moon in Capricorn is a reminder that structure and discipline are worthy tools for reorganizing life and providing a bit of direction, but we must also recognize our true essence as mystical, surreal, complex - surrender to the tides with total abandon lest we silence the voices within!

Peace, love and goddess power

As stated, the Full Moon in Capricorn is hardly a walk in the park, but that doesn’t mean there’s anything inherently gloomy about this phase. In the same way that speaking our truth or living from the heart can incite fear and anxiety, the Full Moon in Capricorn is simply a test of character. What are you working on and how well are you doing? Where in life do you need more self-control? Use this earth energy to get some good work done, but keep in mind that earth is, by nature, heavy and resistant to change. Visualize new sprouts growing from a fire-ravaged forest floor. We can connect to the earth and still be light!

Watch for the tendency to be critical of the Self and others. Capricorns set the bar high then struggle to understand why everyone else can’t keep up. The sea goat would do well to learn a little empathy and compassion from the crab.

I suggest a ritual involving earth, such as planting seeds. 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: self-discipline

Pluto Retrograde in Capricorn ♑ Apr 16 - Sep 25

Pluto turns retrograde in Capricorn from April 16 - September 25

Click here to learn about Pluto. Click here to learn about Capricorn.

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 “backwards” functioning of the planets and their respective roles. Click here to learn more about retrograde motion.

In classic astrology, Pluto rules fixed water Scorpio. Pluto concerns himself with issues of transformation and rebirth, fear, trust, integrity, destruction, power and control. When we make life-altering decisions, Plutonian energy is present. Pluto represents shift. It is through Pluto that the psyche is symbolically demolished and renewed.

God of the Underworld

Since November 2008, Pluto has been spinning through cardinal earth Capricorn. This transit has so far been, and will only continue to be, extremely potent. Capricorn is the patriarch of the zodiac, ruler of all things structural, institutional and societal. Pluto in Capricorn manifests as a total overhaul of how we live together on Earth. In particular, we can expect to see continued changes in regards to the global economy, governmental institutions and major religions. Pluto in Capricorn exposes rampant hypocrisy, corruption and greed embedded in the framework of our failing systems. Indeed it is undeniable that we must make fundamental changes at the planetary level if we ever want to live in peace and abundance.

The ultimate goal of Pluto in Capricorn is to reorganize society so that we may live in true harmony with the natural cycles of our planet and the greater Universe. Pluto uses extremes in order to highlight the problems that arise when we put blind trust in institutions. The mainstream media reports so regularly on heretofore hidden, quasi-governmental scandals that I daresay we have become desensitized. Pluto in Capricorn: authoritative and hierarchical, though he’s proudly poised, ready at any moment to initiate the fall of the mighty. This dynamic placement delivers reform by shedding light on truths that have long been suppressed, such as the lies of wealthy men clinging to their power - those who were once viewed as mentors and leaders. On that note, we are also encouraged now to examine the great imbalance between masculine and feminine energy on our planet. I am confident that by the end of this transit, we will return to ancient wisdom as a way to protect the Earth and empower her people.

Pluto Rx: what to expect?

Pluto is retrograde about 6 months out of the year. This is an introspective and reflective period in which we are likely to encounter delays in our own transformational journey. Just because the rate of shift will temporarily slow doesn’t mean that these changes will lose intensity. In fact, you can expect quite the opposite. Pluto is ultimately an evolutionary force; when retrograde, his purpose is to clear out blockages that hinder our personal metamorphosis. Change happens more within than externally. When Pluto is direct, he unearths stories in the public sphere, such as political corruption. However, Pluto Rx gets us in touch with our own personal shadows.

Pluto Rx in Capricorn operates at a physical level. Now is the time to (perhaps literally) remodel, reconfigure and restructure. Reworking allows us to heal. Healing allows us to be reborn. This process should not be taken lightly. From astrologer Nadia Gilchrist:

Pluto’s changes will become obvious to everyone (at some point) so make sure you’re doing them right. The consequences of a poorly handled Pluto transit (ignoring or denying the transformations) can manifest as the ruins of your current structures, with nothing to replace them. Scorched earth, no new growth.

This transit immerses us in the underworld of the psyche. Pluto lives and works here, extracting deep grief and fear embedded in the energy body and unconscious memories. Although he is extreme as an entity himself, Pluto is actually here to purge extremes from our own life. To expedite this purge, release and surrender. One more from Nadia Gilchrist:

Working with a Pluto transit just means you have to let go of what’s already being pulled away and allow new growth to flourish. Then tend to that new growth. This retrograde is your chance to be thorough; you’re working with the changes that have already occurred, not making new ones (yet).

Plutonian endings and beginnings are a result of spiritual growth. This planet asks us to understand our true purpose. Nothing slips by Pluto; he is neither superficial nor simple. Plutonian missions are notoriously complex, dark and intimidating. There will be no growth, improvement or maturation until we see the Self as it is, flaws and all. To achieve this, we must have unconditional trust in the karmic process and the Self. Are you unconsciously giving power to entities which do not serve you? Examine your role in your own evolution.

I was born with Pluto retrograde. Those with this disposition may not feel the effects of this period as much, if at all. To find out your Pluto sign and whether he was direct or retrograde at the time of your birth, click here.

If you are curious about how this transit affects you personally, please contact me for more insight.

Mantra: change is good

Last Quarter Moon in Capricorn ☾ Apr 11, 2015

The Last Quarter in Capricorn comes exact on Saturday, April 11 at 11:44 pm EST

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

We now approach the Last Quarter, halfway between full and new with the Moon squaring the Sun at 90˚. (Seen from above, the Moon forms a right angle in relation to an invisible line running through 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 Aries squares the Moon in cardinal earth Capricorn. 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 Lunar Eclipse in Libra 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 (Apr 11-18) is the ideal time to buckle down and wrap up all that was set in place with the Supermoon Solar Eclipse in Aries three weeks ago.

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 cardinal signs, meaning that the most attractive path now will be one that serves as a foundation, an axis, a compass. The entire Aries cycle thus far has encouraged us to lay the groundwork for the upcoming astrological year – 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 Aries at the end of 2014 – whatever themes predominated at that time will now resurface.

Capricorn: a return to structure

The Last Quarter Moon in Capricorn represents conflict between the Self and the Father. We must assert ourselves and promote individuality but not at the cost of ignoring the very institutions and traditions which allow us this freedom and independence. I like to visualize Capricorn holding onto the ram’s horns, inquiring sternly whether or not all options have been considered. Precisely like a concerned father, the sea goat wants to make sure that our plans are sound and reasonable. Aries is impatient, being the first in the zodiac; there is a deep need in the ram’s soul to break free, to run headfirst into the rising sun. Think of Aries as a reckless teenager chomping at the bit and screaming LET ME GO! We must move forward with our personal agenda while still respecting the customs and conventions that many hold so dear. From Capricorn we learn to be methodical and careful, from Aries that we can still get by even if we chuck it all and get after it wholeheartedly and audaciously – no plan, no direction, just pure unbridled energy. At this time patriarchal appreciation will speak to the heart while doing favors for the Self will feel more like a duty.

I know it doesn’t sound very fun, imploring the iron fist of the solar system to see how we can better manage work and life, but even minimal structure and discipline go a long way. This is where we lay the bricks of the soul’s basement. Earth energy grounds, settles, confirms. I expect that this phase will manifest as a rather serious time. The Last Quarter Moon in Capricorn encourages us to draw up definitive blueprints and get real. The sea goat loves nothing more than working hard. This sign is old-fashioned. Success and status count more than usual now. It is interesting to note that the Moon is in her detriment in Capricorn, as she normally rules Cancer, 180 degrees across in direct opposition. So this is an uncomfortable position for her, being forced to care about responsibilities and career. In her natural state she is soft, sensitive and nurturing. We must have both the strength to climb society’s mountainous expectations and the audacity to remain bold and authentic.

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: self-discipline

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

First Quarter Moon in Capricorn - Oct 1, 2014

The First Quarter Moon in Capricorn comes exact on October 1, 2014 at 3:33 PM EST

Click here to learn more about the Moon.

The First Quarter marks the halfway point between the New and Full Moon. The First and Last Quarter Moon phases occur when the Moon squares the Sun at a 90 degree angle. In this particular phase, the Sun in cardinal air sign Libra will square the Moon in cardinal earth sign Capricorn. From the Earth, we will perceive that the “right side” of the Moon is bright. The Moon will rise at noon, peak at dusk and set at midnight.

This phase of the Moon is a checkpoint. Here we assess how we are doing – what aspects of our initiatives have been successful thus far? Where do we need to work harder? This phase is like creeping to the high point of a rollercoaster, represented by the Full Moon, a time when our work is brought to completion and answers to lingering questions are illuminated. We are now encouraged to scope out cracks in the foundation we laid down with last week’s New Moon in Libra. Are your ventures built to last?

The waxing light of the Moon symbolizes a return to total awareness. This is the best time to tweak and improve upon existing plans. At every Full Moon we conclude all that we have set out to do at the New Moon. The week between the First Quarter Moon and the Full Moon is a very powerful time. If you have been diligent, expect to see your ideas come to fruition now.

Squares mean change. We have come to a corner, and now we must choose a route. The building energy and excitement you may feel at this phase is there to encourage pioneering. This is a time of decisive action, calculated risk-taking, networking and deepened commitment to personal growth. The Moon is asking you to gather yourself. This phase falls in cardinal signs, meaning that the most attractive path now will be one that speaks to your initiative as well as something that contributes to what is essential in your life. We are poised to launch new projects that provide direction. In other words, this month focuses on scratching the old and trying out something that is (potentially) completely different.

The First Quarter Moon falling in Capricorn represents a conflict between our desire for personal status and prestige, particularly in relation to our professional life, and our desire to see all people succeed as they work together in a harmonious community. It is important that we put in the hours, maintain a healthy work ethic and feel proud of all that we do, but not at the cost of losing appreciation for the beautiful web of people upon which we rely. Simply put, the battle here is between the success of the individual and the general wellbeing of the people who support the individual. The challenge may, on the other hand, have more to do with overcoming inertia and goading the Self into giving back, sincerely and unconditionally, to the greater community. Watch out for grumbling, pent-up frustration and laziness. Libra is a rather breezy, centered energy squaring Capricorn, a sign which can be stubborn, authoritarian or self-absorbed at times. At this time our desire for personal success will speak to the heart while the pull towards our community will feel more like a duty.

When the Moon transits an earth sign, physical energy runs low. It may be more difficult than usual to get out of bed and keep moving. If balanced, however, this may be an extremely industrious time. The goat is fickle - you can never quite know what to expect. I like to visualize Capricorn energy as a family farm, operating smoothly at full strength. Use the earthy energy of this Moon phase to check off a few things on your to-do list, stay in and watch a movie or catch up on sleep.

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.

YOGA CHALLENGE

Capricorn rules our bones, joints, knees and teeth: our internal structure. In yoga, tadasana, mountain pose, serves a similar purpose. Again and again we return to this pose as a source of security and stability. Even while doing something as simple as standing, there are many things that require our attention and precision. Are your toes pointing forward, second toe in line with the center of your ankle? Are your knee caps lifting? Are your hips relaxed, tailbone curling down and in? Are your shoulders relaxed, rotating down and back, away from the ears? Relax the jaw, eyes, scalp, cheeks and tongue. Close the eyes and let your hands fall to the sides, palms facing forward to further facilitate shoulder blades coming together. Experiment with engaging the mula bandha (root lock) and uddiyana bandha (sacral chakra lock, located in the lower belly). Tips of the ears back, chin parallel to the earth, cervical spine lifting to the sky. Don’t forget to breeeeathe!

Mantra: I am fulfilled