cardinal

Supermoon Lunar Eclipse in Aries ❍ Sep 27, 2015

Photo by Jimmy Westlake

The Supermoon Lunar Eclipse in Aries comes exact on Sunday, Sep 27 at 10:50 pm EST

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

I need to get something off my chest: aaaAAAAHHHHH! Ok, that’s better. All this lunar business…and it’s not over yet! Next up, a powerful Super Full Moon Lunar Eclipse following our Solar Eclipse in Virgo. This particular phase is known as the Full Hunter’s Moon and also as a “Blood Moon” as it will appear dark red at the time of the eclipse. This eclipse is a follow-up to the Lunar Eclipse in Libra of April, which was itself a follow-up to the Lunar Eclipse in Aries of October 8, 2014. Yes, this is just one in a series of eclipses falling on the Aries-Libra axis beginning in October 2013 and continuing through March 2016. Any themes/conflicts that predominated during any of these eclipses will now resurface. This phase also marks the midpoint of the astrological year, beginning in late March with the Super Solar Eclipse in Aries. The moon will rise at sunset, peak at midnight and set at sunrise.

The Sun and Moon in total opposition between Libra and Aries: Self vs other. Luna rounds herself to total majesty less than a week after the Sun enters Libra. I see this as a continuation of an energetic theme that’s here to stay for awhile: speedy manifestation, coming up to base camp sooner than expected. We’ll be meeting in the flames: primordial fire, rebirth, return to square one. We are rapidly entering a time of major Self-evaluation.

Axis of relationships

The Aries-Libra dichotomy is known as the relationship axis. The Universe is pushing us to address issues related to this polarity. Each eclipse is a check-up on our progress. Let’s meditate for a moment on the ruling planets of each sign, Mars and Venus respectively. Venus, ardent keeper of the peace, has difficulty with Mars, the self-assertive warrior drawing us back again and again to the ego. Mars charges full speed ahead with his brilliant personal agenda; Venus remains egalitarian and diplomatic. Mars would rather be brutally honest than tactful! We now have an opportunity to achieve balance between independence vs. dependence on others. How well are you meeting the needs of all? This does not necessarily mean that we are automatically aligned with Mars in this cosmic battle. In fact, if you’re like me, you might lean heavily toward Venus.

I remember very well how potent this eclipse was last year. I waited until it was too late to voice my truth and ended up leaving my job and apartment on unsavory terms. Although it still makes me unbelievably nervous, speaking up for myself is my priority at all times now. I never want to put myself in such a defensive position again. So this year I’m going to be ahead of the curve! If something comes up that’s bothering you or doesn’t feel right, don’t hesitate to open your throat with words of peace and understanding.

It is important to make changes before the eclipse rather than wait until something comes hurtling at you; eclipses reveal information suddenly, so you won’t have time to prepare! Having said that, any revelations or events at the eclipse are not novel - they’ve been bubbling below the surface for a long time and your intuition has probably been well aware of them. Therein lies another major lesson! Listen to your gut, act accordingly, avoid the mess. I feel it all as we wade deeper into this astrological year.

If balanced, we are confident and courageous, ready to move and do. The ram connects us with our inner leader, drive directed outward. Like a new star in the sky or a butterfly opening its wings for the first time, we bloom, stretch, reach, dancing joyously as though we have just discovered the magic of our bodies. I would like to emphasize, once again, that this full moon will be very intense. Eclipses are dramatic, forceful, passionate. How appropriate that the moon will be blood red in honor of the zealous ram! I suggest a ritual involving fire or some Aries Yoga.

To ascertain your personal Moon sign, click here.

Mantra: speaking Truth

Sun in Libra ☼ Sep 23 - Oct 23

The Sun transits Libra from Sep 23 (Fall Equinox) – Oct 23

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

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

I had many ideas about what the Virgo cycle would herald and yet the Goddess of Harvest still managed to surprise me. Do you feel like you got tossed into a wind turbine? Change is afoot! Seems like everyone is moving, getting new jobs, going to school, breaking up, generally gettin’ after it, whatever it is. This last month has been insanely busy. Indeed, Virgo gave us a peek into what the rest of the year holds. Life is not going to slow down, you lovely people. Whatever adjustments you made (or are still making) during the last few weeks will serve as a foundation for all that follows in 2016. We’re soaring through the upper echelon of the zodiac wheel, next stop Libra.

Let’s look at the greater context. Libra is situated between Virgo, who has proven to be a serious powerhouse, and Scorpio, creature of the night. Think of Libra as a resting spot - she’ll provide us with a relatively quiet period in which we can assimilate all the changes we’re making and also gear up for the scorpion realm. I say “relatively” quiet because I don’t think it will be at all. However, we can balance heavy schedules and responsibilities by retreating to a peaceful nook. Libra prefers grace and beauty in her surroundings, so grab your work and head outside. We can zone in to the task at hand while still satisfying Libra’s aesthetic needs.

Libra showers us with abundance only after we dutifully contemplate. Much has already been set in place since our rebirth in the spring, and now it’s time to reconfigure whatever’s not running smoothly. Insight is not always forthcoming - you are required to meditate and be honest with yourself and others! We’ll have to think while we work, because that’s just the pace of the Universe right now, but it won’t be a problem. Seize this opportunity to sort out your thoughts calmly or you’ll be thrown back into the mix feeling disarrayed. The good news is that Libra is not asking us to isolate as we process - she is the Goddess of Love, after all, and she doesn’t operate very well alone. Libra cultivates harmony.

I like to visualize Libra as a diplomat or mediator, smoothing out all the wrinkles. Libra has strong morals and enjoys actively participating in social justice. I have also observed that Libras are (traditionally) logical types who do not believe in astrology! This is due in part to the cardinal nature of this sign. Libra wants to make sure that her beliefs are practical and virtuous so that they may be of use to many people from all walks of life, not just herself.

To Libra, relationships are a mirror. Negotiating can be uncomfortable, but the alternative – internalizing negative feelings and remaining silent – is ultimately much more uncomfortable in the end. That’s what I remember struggling with most at this time last year: speaking up and holding my ground. Healthy confrontation comes naturally to some, but to others just the thought of verbalizing Truth makes us want to hide in the deepest, darkest cave. We have another Lunar Eclipse in Aries fast approaching, so I encourage you to get ahead of the curve and say what you need to say before something/someone else pulls the rug out. Of course this doesn’t mean that you need to be aggressive, in fact Libra is known for her classy communication. I can’t emphasize enough how important it is to open the throat chakra and let your words fly out like doves: full of peace and compassion.

Libra is the sign of the scale. The scale is not only a symbol of balance but also of decision-making and listening. Before “weighing in,” the scale gathers as much information as possible so that the final decision reflects careful deliberation. This inclination can make it more difficult to reach said decision when the time comes. Because Libra is a natural counselor, she recognizes many viewpoints at once and may ascribe to opposing beliefs simultaneously. Or Libra may purport to not have an opinion and thus communicate ineffectively with passive-aggressive tactics, when in reality she has known the entire time exactly how she feels. This stems from her remarkable tolerance, which is always a crowd favorite. Libra is a social goddess who may have difficulty being alone for long periods of time. When balanced, Libra sees all relationships as opportunities to work on the relationship with the Self. When taken to the extreme, this inclination, coupled with Venusian energy, can manifest as superficiality, judgment or egocentric behavior.

My intuition tells me that this cycle will be intense. This may seem to contradict what I’ve just written, but really my goal is to prescribe nature and reflection as a way to counteract all the commotion. I do not think that it is impossible to stay centered in the midst of chaos. It will take strength and courage and honesty. Stand close to the people who make you feel golden, invincible, validated, tranquil. We’re moving down the line of chakras, now centered at the sacral chakra – svadhisthana. Perhaps this transit will find you learning more about the chakras and how to align them.

The Sun last transited Libra from Sep 22 – Oct 23, 2014. Any themes/conflicts that predominated then will now resurface.

Mantra: peace

Aphrodite_Anadyomene_from_Pompeii_cropped

Mercury Retrograde in Libra ☿ Sep 17 - Oct 9

Mercury will station retrograde in Libra from Sep 17 - Oct 9, 2015

Click here to learn about Mercury.

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. Click here to learn more about retrograde. 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. 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 Monday, Sep 7). This is a trial run, an opportunity to gauge what’s ahead. 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!

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 invest in major entities such as houses, cars or vacations. Be 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. It may be difficult to express to others how and what you’re feeling, so it helps to have another outlet for your thoughts.

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. 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.

We’ve discussed Mercury entering Libra as of Aug 27. Let’s combine topics and wax poetic on the nature of Mercury Retrograde in this cardinal air sign.

We’ll be dealing with intense partnership issues. With Mercury in Libra, we acknowledge areas of life connected to our loved ones. It’s time to get honest with the Self - are my relationships healthy and peaceful? What is my role? Am I where I want to be?

Libra is the sign of the scales, glittering in equilibrium. It’s time to break out of relationships/partnerships that have calcified over time and no longer serve you. I think this retrograde period will sound something like - finally, I should have done this a long time ago, what was I thinking? I think we’ll learn (more than once) lessons of compromise; meeting others halfway; healthy sacrifice. Mercury Rx in Libra is an opportunity to harness the power of community and forgiveness. At its core, Mercury Rx is all about change. Know that the changes hurtling at you full speed are ultimately there to help and center you. Let’s reorganize social aspects of life that do not reflect peace and harmony.

Mercury Rx in Libra is graceful, classy, full of self-respect. She walks with equal parts confidence and awareness. She epitomizes the true essence of divine feminine cardinal energy. If you resist changes in the outer sphere, I expect that this transit will be difficult for you. All of the bold words churning in your psyche are just waiting to burst forth in an explosion of catharsis and truth. Holding a lid on this persistently prodigious force is like running from the wind: futile and exhausting.

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 in Libra ☿ Aug 27 - Nov 2

Mercury transits Libra from Aug 27 – Nov 2, 2015

Click here to learn about Mercury. Click here to learn about Libra.

In Mercury’s dream world, he lives full-time in Libra’s gorgeous house on the hill. Libra is a cardinal sign, a modality which Mercury does not experience in his rulership of mutable Gemini or Virgo. In the cardinal realm, Mercury enjoys relative peace and harmony - his words are softer, not so rushed.

Aspects of life which fall under the cardinal modality are basic in nature, but not lesser. I find cardinal energy to be profoundly familiar and comforting. I like to think of the modalities falling upon a spectrum, with mutable at one end and fixed at the other. In the middle we have cardinal, our proverbial compass rose. Libra is not only a cardinal sign, but she also falls right in the middle of the zodiac wheel. In so many ways, she represents compromise - meeting others halfway - pacification of the extremes. You can see why Mercury, master of communication, craves this medial approach to life.

Mercury is the first planet to enter Libra this season. I see this transit as a continuation of what has proven to be a lovely shift into Virgo. Libra and Virgo are very good friends. I like to imagine these two goddesses walking slowly through the garden every morning, speaking of light, meaning, justice, virtue. This changeover will be quite painless. However, the imbalanced Libra constantly seeks validation, unlike her earthy friend Virgo. Many Libras express a deep need to be surrounded / partnered with others at all times. This does not necessarily mean that Libras are weak or clingy. I think they’re just hard-wired as social creatures and feel purposeless when they’re not actively participating in the communal flow.

Libra and Virgo both have a habit of getting tangled up in the mind, but for different reasons. Mercury in Libra may manifest as acute indecision or over-compromise, bordering on unnecessary sacrifice. This is because the imbalanced Libra is too concerned with group opinion, vacillating wildly in an effort to remain loyal to all sides at once. Libra may appear superficial as a result. She is so afraid of offending others that she will attempt to please everyone at once by simply having no opinions at all or readily agreeing with everyone. This stems not only from fear of rocking the boat, but also from a genuine and precious ability to see the viewpoints of many people simultaneously.

Mercury transited Libra’s opposite sign (Aries) in April earlier this year. I recall this being a very angry time, but empowering as well. It wasn’t until Mercury rolled red-hot into Aries that I finally summoned the words to stand up for myself and leave my horrible job. Mercury in Aries has a sharp tongue and a bad habit of speaking before thinking. This is when we recreated the outward Self for greater authenticity - and now we fine tune with Libra. It’s no longer challenging to stay cool and collected in the face of aggression or turmoil. Libra gravitates towards peace and mindfulness, Aries towards war and mindlessness. With Mercury in Aries there’s no bullshit, small talk or beating around the bush. There is a real danger in offending others here - Aries needs to keep things raw because there is so much going on internally. The ram’s psyche is constantly imploding with color, noise, movement and ideas. He knows intuitively that not everything can or will be communicated properly. Enjoy this time now as we swing to the other end - equilibrium.

Libra, ruled by Venus, is associated with beauty, aesthetic and art. Libra enjoys a certain level of tastefulness in her immediate surroundings. I have also observed that Libras often love fashion and all things related to the cosmetic world. Libra’s style, whether in writing or clothing or manner of speech, is understated, simplistic and classy. As with Virgo, Mercury in Libra keeps it clean and straightforward – no frills, no gaudiness.

Mercury in Libra is calm, sensible and refined. When imbalanced, we might be submissive or insecure. Experiencing a new level of clarity in our relationships can feel so refreshing that we might cling to pleasantness and apparent stability to avoid reconciling opposition. Remember that it is possible to accommodate others while still respecting our own needs. Mercury in Libra asks us to confront friendship or partnership issues that have been suppressed or ignored. The challenge here is to remain assertive! A keyword for this transit is grace. We choose our words carefully now. Let’s examine our connection to others and the words we use to affect these relationships. Mercury in Libra asks: does my message aid or detract from the stream of communication? We must now put ourselves in many different pairs of shoes.

Mercury last transited Libra from Sep 2 – 27, 2014. Any themes/conflicts that predominated then will now resurface.

If you were born with Mercury in Libra, these next few weeks are your Mercury Return. 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: peace

Uranus Retrograde in Aries ♅ July 26 - Dec 25

Uranus turns retrograde in Aries from July 26 - Dec 25, 2015

Click here to learn about Uranus. Click here to learn about Aries.

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.

Ruler of fixed air sign and notorious rebel Aquarius, Uranus is all about freedom. He defies tradition and embraces uniqueness. Uranian energy is innovative, original and progressive. Areas of life associated with this planet are electricity, technology, enlightenment, objectivity, ingenuity, investigation and discovery. When balanced, Uranian energy is the spark that illuminates curiosity, propelling us to ask questions and explore ardently. Imbalanced Uranian energy makes us reckless, restless, extreme, forceful, overreactive or irresponsible. Uranus loves nothing more than to make waves, disrupting the agenda of The Man.

Uranus Retrograde

Uranus has occupied cardinal fire sign Aries since May 2010 and will be here until March 2019. Uranus is actually retrograde about half the time. What does this mean? When Uranus turns retrograde, we are asked to examine our spontaneity and authenticity. As with Saturn retrograde, we confront fears and blocks. The difference here is that revelations happen suddenly. Priorities and values quickly make themselves clear. Problems present themselves immediately and aggressively, making them impossible to ignore. All who are balanced attain new levels of conscious awareness.

We are now entering a deep labyrinth of mental probing and analysis. Uranus retrograde asks: what have you blindly accepted? Prepare for an abrupt change in direction if one is needed! This transit always pushes me out of jobs, relationships, perspectives and behaviors that have successfully trapped me in a state of unawareness. Some, myself included, are able to feel shift happening but can’t seem to harness the energy, so you may spend a lot of time processing said changes without immediately acting upon them. On that note, it is not uncommon to feel lost or anxious during Uranus Rx transits. You may experience personality changes during this time. Every retrograde period lifts a veil. What we see underneath is not always what we desire, but this is often because we have gotten too comfortable. The path that you brought you to the present moment will be fully illuminated.

Uranus in Aries

On a broader scale, Uranus retrograde manifests as general unrest in society. Truths that have been covered up, suppressed or ignored will all be unearthed as Uranus continues his transit of ferocious Aries. Conventions and traditions are challenged, and change follows suit. You don’t have to look far to see how global transformations and struggles for freedom are growing exponentially. Political systems are faced with demands for overhaul like we’ve never seen before. This is a result of Aries fire igniting Uranus’ unorthodox, groundbreaking energy. Whatever we’ve been doing up until now is obviously not working. The ram, being the first sign in the zodiac, demands a return to square one. All that has been hidden now resurfaces. Corruption, scandal and hypocrisy are dinosaurs wheezing their last breaths.

With Uranus turning retrograde, the inner rebel steps down for reflection. We are passive and pensive, resting inside a cocoon in preparation for when Uranus turns direct again, a time when we will burst forth to express our true, uninhibited Self. Some interpretations of Uranus state that we feel more rebellious during retrograde periods, but I disagree. Uranus Retrograde gives us better access to our intuition and instincts; when Uranus turns direct, we boldly apply new inner wisdom in the external world and make necessary changes, even risky ones.

Those born with Uranus retrograde always need to know why, why, why? There is a tendency here to control the inner rebel until it all comes out at once, seemingly from nowhere. Uranus retrograde in the natal chart points to a need for internal change before external manifestation. The power of the inner rebel is underestimated.

I was born when Uranus was retrograde. Those with this disposition may not feel the effects of this period as much, if at all. To find out your Uranus sign and whether or not 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: rebellious rebirth

New Moon in Cancer ⬤ July 15, 2015

The New Moon in Cancer comes exact on July 15, 2015 at 9:24 pm EST

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

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 cardinal water Cancer.

Luna at home

I like the new moon at the end of a cycle: a baptism, a refreshing absolution of any blunders made over the last few weeks. Especially true at this phase because the Moon rules Cancer - in astrology we say that the moon is “at home” here. Planets at home are auspicious placements. Luna is much more comfortable in the new moon than she was at the Full Moon in Capricorn two weeks ago. She operates best here: tranquil, silent, preparing the way for us in darkness.

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

The “lunar cycle” winds down

The Cancer cycle this year has been as expected: emotional, erratic, instilling a deep need for home, security and safety; nostalgic, comfortably uncomfortable; yearning for childhood; soul desperation, longing for release, for respite, for bliss. I look forward to the relative peace of new moon energy. However, with the moon at home in Cancer and both Mars and Mercury in Cancer opposing Pluto in Capricorn on the same day, it may not be so serene after all. What seems most important is respecting our need to slow down and take care of the Self. My first inclination right now is to fight and resist when I feel another big wave coming - let’s relax and allow the Universe to take her course. This new moon is best spent resting and processing all the information received through/from the heart over the last few weeks. I suggest a ritual involving water or some Cancer Yoga.

Much of the Cancer cycle is designed as a sometimes-painful-usually-magnificent trip down memory lane and getting to the root - not in a dark, intense Scorpio kind of way, more like lessons in acceptance and loving acknowledgement. I’ve been coming much closer to myself lately, figuring things out as they arrive. I feel really small and closed off when I’m not creating art. I see now that all the talking in my head is not productive, is not helping me to evolve spiritually, is not pushing me to be my best Self - it’s a sign that I’m not allowing myself to just enjoy who I am! The crab is here to guide you down the difficult path of Self-love. What are you learning about yourself? We are perpetually becoming rather than being – in this realization, infinite ecstasy. You are loved.

Primordial water

We are now at the very end of the primordial period of the astrological year. I still feel myself clinging to the idea of starting over at the threshold of this new moon. I’ve been swimming strongly in the ocean of my own strong Cancer essence - sensitive, feeling everything, returning to childlike thoughts and patterns. It’s almost time to let go, to float on the open water; fear rises in your throat and burns your eyes as you realize that you can’t turn back, not even to say goodbye. I feel your collective anxiety, precious stargazers, but fear not - we are just children clinging to Mother’s skirt, unaware that she is leaving only for a moment, and not only that - we will be fed, soul-nourished, clothed and comforted while she is away, so we must only let go, let go, let go. We are like raccoons reaching little hands into traps to grab a shiny object - we pull back to remove the treasure, but we are stuck, tiny fists blocking the exit - let go to discover that the real riches lie outside the box, no matter what you’ve been told, no matter how frightening the thought of letting go may be.

Cancer energy is as familiar to me as is my own soul. During the Gemini season I spoke about being able to step back and see myself in a way that was light and cleansing. For the last few weeks, I’ve done the same thing, but this time it feels like I’ve been ripped open and led to the very core of my being. We’re all here together, traveling in these waters to the center of centers. As scary as it feels sometimes, there’s also something indescribably wonderful about this journey through the tides, isn’t there? Permeating every facet of Existence is a powerful resonance that only the crab emits, a low hum that fills this weary, aching spirit.

The New Moon in Cancer: at once a beginning and a sweet send-off. We have so much to look forward to in the coming year. As I write I feel something too big for words swelling inside my heart. I believe in the good things coming. Indeed, what a long strange trip it’s been. Some other great humans have also said: how strange to be anything at all. Everything so strange and yet so glorious, so eternal, so ingrained. I wish you luck, prosperity and laughter. 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: I am safe

Last Quarter Moon in Aries ☾ July 8, 2015

The Last Quarter in Aries comes exact on Wednesday, July 8 at 4:24 pm EST

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

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 Cancer squares the moon in cardinal fire Aries. 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 Capricorn 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 (July 8-15) is the ideal time to buckle down and wrap up all that was set in place with the New Moon in Gemini of mid-June.

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. The entire Cancer cycle thus far has encouraged us to harness the power of divine feminine badassery – let this last week be your best yet, no holds barred, just a mega release of prolific and utterly glorious work. The Last Quarter Moon in Aries of summer 2014 fell on July 18; whatever themes predominated then will now resurface.

Aries the newborn

The Last Quarter Moon in Aries represents a conflict between the Self and Mother. I like to imagine each Moon cycle as a procession of poignantly themed challenges. Generally speaking, the Cancer cycle is emotional in nature, but the ram is here now to awaken the Earth - kickstart our plans - jump and move. Are you prepared for rebirth, should the Universe come knocking on your door at this very moment? The ram fishes the crab out of the water now as if to say: remember this entire world around you and all that it has to offer! This Last Quarter Moon is a fiery call to action for the passive crab.

Aries attempts now to add some combustible energy to Cancer’s slow feminine essence so that it may spiral into its fullest expression. Without the ram’s impressive drive, the crab remains forever locked within her own vivid dream world. Cancer prefers to keep the waters calm, but Aries cannot tolerate such meekness. Yes, we must be assertive and promote our individuality - but not at the cost of alienating loved ones and support systems. So the challenge is to move forward with our personal agenda while still respecting our roots. At this time our desire to favor the Self will speak to the heart while the pull towards roots/home will feel like a duty.

Climb your mountain

Aries is a cardinal sign, a bright compass in the darkness. The ram is also a creature of fire - reckless and temperamental one moment, spirited and excitable the next. Expect others to be more feisty, animated and vigorous than usual. Use this raw energy to do some exploring, hiking, dancing or fierce cardio. Since Aries is the first sign in the realm, this phase of the Moon represents a return to square one. You may feel the urge to journal, detox or engage in some self-care. The energy of this transit is akin to a ram breaking through a wall – powerful, bold, impulsive.

When I visualize Aries, I see a blood red sun rising over jagged mountains - hot, dry land - a fateful mood soaking the sky. Everything is hard and rough - forceful, physical, divine masculine. Now is the time to do without thinking. Rear your horns and climb the mountain. If you’re feeling imbalanced, treat this for what it is: a phase, nothing more. Energy levels will increase now temporarily. I suggest a bonfire or some Aries Yoga.

Mercury enters Cancer on the same day and Mars, ruler of Aries, will form a harmonious trine to Neptune in Pisces.

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: I start anew

Mercury in Cancer ☿ July 8 - 23

Mercury transits Cancer from July 8 – July 23, 2015

Click here to learn about Mercury. Click here to learn about Cancer.

Mercury transits to cardinal water Cancer after hanging at home in Gemini since the end of April. T’was a long and lovely return to square one, with plenty of opportunities to hit the proverbial reset button and get back to basics. Mercury in Gemini spun at breakneck speed. I’m ready for life to slow, if only momentarily. Mercury will join the Sun and Mars in divine feminine Cancer. Mercury in Cancer: soft, gentle, yielding, diplomatic, sensitive.

Heart chakra protection

Mercury in Cancer is unhurried in speech. He protects himself at every turn. Have patience with others as we learn how to navigate Cancer’s waters. Embrace caution as a form of long-term security, an investment in our personal relationships. Cancer and Gemini have little in common except that they never stray too far from the familiar. So we’re still not ready to venture out and experiment with new ways of being, but that will come soon enough with Mercury in Leo.

Mercury in Cancer is content to stay right where he is. He chooses not to exert himself with endless chit-chatting or mindless small talk - he basks in the peace and silence that comes from deep inner knowing. Mercury in Cancer handles the world with utmost care; he is attentive and prudent, yet imprecise, speculative, dreamy. If he speaks irrationally, with a great tumbling of words issuing forth from the soul’s wellspring, keep in mind that Mercury ultimately wants to be understood. Mercury in Cancer feels abiding love above all else. Many Cancers keep the true Self well guarded - a preemptive retreat so as not to risk exposing the full extent of their vulnerability. Mercury in Cancer is an ocean, both of wisdom and of raw feeling. It’s very important now to remain confident and unapologetic. There is no shame in emotional release so let it out.

Axis of stability

Mercury transited the crab’s opposite sign (Capricorn) in December 2014. Any themes that predominated then will now resurface. I have spoken at length about the Cancer-Capricorn polarity in recent posts. Mercury is quick like lightning in his natural state: the epitome of true mutable energy. Mercury in Cancer, as noted, is not at all swift or lively. This could also be said of Mercury in Capricorn, although the two placements are quite different. Mercury in Capricorn is the ultimate pragmatic speaker: cut and dry, all business. Conversations with Mercury in Capricorn are straightforward and evidence-based. What can we take away from this?

Capricorn’s mantra is I use: with Mercury here, we were encouraged to examine the applicability of our thoughts and words. I do not want to appear as though giving contradictory messages. We can satisfy the crab’s need for sentimental anecdotes and rambling tangents and still be practical, all by cultivating that elusive bastard awareness. The sea goat finds comfort in structure and discipline - Mercury in Capricorn takes a conversation and immediately puts it to use in the real world. This is where Capricorn has a reputation for being rigid and old-fashioned, and that’s not how I would describe Mercury in his natural habitat. So it’s perfectly alright to resist this urge to “get real,” to observe our interpersonal relationships with a most critical and objective eye. The overwhelming need for life to operate smoothly and efficiently is now replaced by uninhibited expression. Mercury in Capricorn instilled order by policing excessive or out of control behavior - but that’s just a distant memory now - breathe and be free.

Sweet and low

I used to think of the Cancer soul as fragile, but I’m starting to see that this is often not the case. It is true that Cancers have a comfort zone that they don’t particularly like to leave. But what continues to surprise me is the crab’s resilience and fortitude. The Cancer vibration is sweet and low like summertime rain. No longer do we require massive stimulation of the mind as a way to alleviate interminably circling thoughts - welcome to the flat rock in the ocean, your resting spot betwixt the mighty waves. We are asked now to work on communication basics and cerebral pursuits as they relate to our divine feminine attributes. If balanced, expect to feel serene indeed. Mercury in Cancer may manifest as a major trip down memory lane.

If you were born with Mercury in Cancer, these next few weeks will be your Mercury Return. 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: I am safe

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

Mars in Cancer ♂ June 24 - Aug 8

Mars transits Cancer from June 24 – August 8, 2015

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

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

Divine feminine power

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

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

Heart chakra awareness

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

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

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

Mantra: powerful heart

♇ Astro • Yoga ♇