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New Moon in Leo ⬤ Aug 14, 2015

The New Moon in Leo comes exact on Friday, August 14 at 10:53 am EST

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

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 Leo.

An abnormal Leo cycle

Although we’re now neck-deep in the Leo cycle, it’s important to remember that it started with the New Moon in Cancer. This put a heavy emotional twist on what would have otherwise been a fairly jovial season. Perhaps the same can be said for what comes next. I wouldn’t usually describe the Virgo cycle as fiery or flamboyant, but that’s how the ball gets rollin’ with the New Moon in Leo.

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 “solar cycle” winds down

As stated, this hasn’t been your typical Leo season. Yes, we had all the ego one could wish for - in fact, I found everyone to be even more combative than predicted. However, there was a dark element cast over the lion’s sunny disposition. I look forward to the relative peace of new moon energy. I was under the impression that, due to this being a sort of Cancer-Leo hybrid cycle, the Full Moon in Aquarius would be more somber than whacky. This was absolutely not the case! We got plenty of weird, wild and volatile with a dash of drowning heart. After several months of intensity, I am overjoyed to say that I can finally feel it lifting - LET’S CELEBRATE! For the new moon, I suggest a ritual involving fire or some Leo Yoga.

How appropriate that the Leo season is winding down just as Jupiter moves out of Leo into Virgo. All of life has been Leo-themed since summer 2014 when you consider Jupiter’s arc in our skies. This manifested as one long battle with the collective ego and my GOD has it been exhausting. Every day I swim deeper in the ocean of gratitude. The war is ending. The earth turns once more to catch the last rainbow rays of summer love. It’s perfectly acceptable to acknowledge that it’s been a rough year, but now we’ve got to let it GO. Leo arrives at the eleventh hour for one last lesson in buoyancy - rising above the bullshit. Don’t take it with you, my friends. You are too incredible to carry something so dense. Stand tall and BE FREE!

Divine fire energy

We’re firmly in the throes of the astrological year and there’s no going back. I feel my drive and confidence snowballing as we all travel further into the unknown. Immeasurable strength lies dormant in the heart until we put the Self in a situation that requires unprecedented bravery. This power then lifts her head from beneath the covers, so very alive. Can you feel it, can you hear it? Lights and music and color growing bigger and brighter by the second. Jump on Leo’s back and hold tight. He’s here to help us pass through the gate which leads beyond the garden, beyond the familiar. I can’t speak to the brilliance of the future. If I could capture even just one word, the screen before your eyes would obliterate.

Leo energy seems to manifest most obviously in the form of personality and behavioral changes. Everyone steps outside of their own personal comfort levels to tango with the exotic sexy neighbor, get hyphy at the block party, climb a huge mountain and laugh when others are silent. Exuberance is the name of the game. I’m done with psycho-analyzing myself and others, done with the tears and the pain and the long days and nights. If you want to find me, I’ll be dancing. There’s something indescribably wonderful about this journey through the flames, isn’t there? The Leo cycle melds the Self with the inner child, so full of mistakes, so full of optimism, running blindly towards all things bejeweled.

The New Moon in Leo: 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. On a personal note, this New Moon will be quite symbolic for me. I am moving away from Montana to start another chapter of life ^___^

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 believe in myself

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Last Quarter Moon in Taurus ☾ Aug 6, 2015

The Last Quarter in Taurus comes exact on Thursday, August 6 at 10:03 pm EST

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

In this particular phase, the Sun in Leo squares the moon in Taurus. 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 Aquarius 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 (Aug 6-14) is the ideal time to buckle down and wrap up all that was set in place with the New Moon in Cancer of mid-July.

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 Last Quarter Moon in Taurus of summer 2014 fell on August 17. Any themes/conflicts that predominated then will now resurface.

Heads collide

For those who are strongly affected by lunar energy, the quarter moon phases are extremely emotional. Square aspects are sharp, angular junctions that prompt change. As CafeAstrology notes, the quarter phases feel like a “crisis of consciousness.” So please be compassionate with yourself and prepare to be tested! The Last Quarter Moon in Taurus is not a conflict between two opposing concepts so much as it is a silly argument between two people who insist that they are completely different but are actually very similar - indeed, both Taurus and Leo are incredibly stubborn and difficult to persuade of anything much at all. I like to imagine each Moon cycle as a procession of poignantly themed challenges. Generally speaking, the Leo cycle is wildly expressive in nature, but the bull is here now to bring it all back down to reality. The bull, unlike the lion, moves slowly, purposefully and efficiently. Taurus thrifts and saves for maximum comfort in the long run, but Leo would happily spend all his money and resources at once if it meant having the best time ever RIGHT NOW!

Without the bull’s insistence on practicality, the lion remains forever convinced that anything less than complete majesty is a waste of life. Taurus is the cosmic strongwoman of the zodiac, and Leo her pampered son, bounding after luxury and leisure. Leo regards Taurus as stale, boring, too safe. The lion is not satisfied with aspirations that fail to leave room for unbridled passion, followed of course by proper relaxation. This is not to say that the Last Quarter Moon in Taurus is an attempt to extinguish Leo’s spark - if anything, she would love to partake as well. What both signs are really seeking is to live the best life possible. From Taurus we learn to survive off of our own inner confidence and self-appreciation; from Leo we learn the importance of genuine compassion and forthright praise for others. What we really learn is that it takes incredible courage to live completely in the present moment, detached from all terrestrial doubts, fears and worries. At this time our desire to get grounded will speak to the heart while the pull towards our social life will feel like a duty.

Conservation vs. excess

Expect themes of loyalty, or perhaps loyalty to indulgence, to pop up now. This square connotes a conflict between conservation and excess. Even the imbalanced bull is known to swing wildly between saving and splurging. This phase falls in fixed signs, meaning that the most attractive path now will be one that is bold and definitive. This modality lends an unmistakable seriousness to the phase, but we’ll save the griping for the second quarter moon in Scorpio coming next month. When the Moon transits an earth sign, energy is nuturing and genuine. Taurus loves to cook and lounge around. More so than other signs, she has a deep need for intense sensory experiences. The bull loves aromatherapy, passionate music, massages, rich food, fine art and intimate sex. If you’re feeling imbalanced, treat this for what it is: a phase, nothing more. Physical energy levels will decrease now temporarily - but not emotional energy, not even a little bit! I suggest a ritual involving earth/soil or some Taurus Yoga.

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: slow breath

saturn

Saturn turns direct in Scorpio ♄ Aug 2

Saturn turns direct in Scorpio from Aug 2 - Sep 17, 2015 before reentering Sagittarius

Click here to learn about Saturn. Click here to learn about Scorpio.

From October 2012 to December 2014, Saturn transited Scorpio. Thanks to a recent retrograde period, we had the oh-so-lovely opportunity to experience this very intense transit all over again. So we’re back, moving forward in Scorpio, but only for the next few weeks before Saturn returns to Sagittarius for good. Saturn in Scorpio is a time of intensive scrutiny. Here we examine the dichotomy of faith versus control. If this has been an exceptionally difficult period up until now, it’s about to get a little better. Let us rise up now with unprecedented confidence.

Saturn in Scorpio is a (re)discovery of our worth. Although the retrograde period is arguably a more trying time, we’re still not out of the woods. While Saturn constantly claws at our most hidden, visceral insecurities, Scorpio desperately tries to cover them up: vulnerable yet restricted. Like a scorpion lying flat between rock and earth, we reach blindly for total contact and closeness. In the process, we come ever closer to the Self and are forced to confront fears. We want to bare our soul completely, but this very thing is the most excruciating. This is how Saturn operates! We are asked us to peer into the heart to see all that hurts. We have to feel everything at the deepest level before we can move forward. Can you stand alone? Do you you have total control over the Self? These are questions to ask now. Ultimately Saturn in Scorpio teaches that we cannot be close to another until we learn how to be close to the Self – to know and love the Self inside and out, no fear or judgment. The Self is the only agent who controls and creates reality! These are very difficult lessons that take many lifetimes to perfect.

Saturn in Scorpio demonstrates that we must give up perceived power to gain new understanding – this is not easy! In the process of giving up power, we may push away love, or, alternatively, cling to that which is failing and end up losing health, happiness and appreciation for the present moment. Leaning on others from time to time is perfectly natural, but we must learn how and when these dependencies become unhealthy. Like a phoenix rising from the ashes, let’s transform heavy emotional baggage. Saturn in Scorpio does not allow us to cast blame. This is a critical period in which we reclaim personal accountability – only YOU can make yourself happy!

This transit recognizes change as vital. We will be pushed, not led. Saturn in Scorpio renders definitive endings and beginnings that help us grow and mature. Let’s get more comfortable talking and thinking about purpose. Our first inclination may be to shy away from that which is actually there to heal us. The source of bad habits, compulsions, debts and addictions will be revealed so that whatever is truly missing – whatever it was that caused a state of imbalance – can rise to the fore of consciousness. Saturn in Scorpio allows us to see what truly matters and what doesn’t. If balanced, you will walk away now with the ability to love and forgive with ease and find meaning even in darkness, mystery and confusion.

Saturn operates within a framework, structured and disciplined. I know, this doesn’t sound very fun. But here we are again: one last squeeze before we can pop back into lighter times. One last opportunity to move in, straight to the core. I think we’ve all been feeling it coming. Energy lately has been dense, heavy, impossibly difficult. As with all things related to Saturn, we must examine issues of control. I’m with you when you say that you’ve been there, dealing with it, thinking about it. Turn back, go back - there’s more work to be done. Something has been left unattended.

This transit is slow, cumbersome. It’s so important to stay optimistic and lighthearted. Keep moving and breathing - Saturn will work behind the scenes for you. I firmly believe that sitting around and marinating in the scorpion’s brew will not help anything. As much as I love my own scorpion essence, she is an undeniably dark creature. However, she is also profoundly spiritual and at the end of the day, she wants to help you transform into blinding brightness.

Sometimes I wake up and there’s a grinding feeling in my neck bones. Saturn forces us be precise - Zen Ren, what is this pain? Get. To. The. Root. One last haul over this huge fucking mountain. It will quickly become clear who is ready to sweat and who’s just going to cry through the whole thing. LET’S DO THIS. Good luck! You are loved.

Many will now experience a Saturn Return. More to come on that! To find out your Saturn sign and whether he was direct or retrograde at the time of your birth, click here.

Mantra: I am in control

mars

Mars in Leo ♂ Aug 8 - Sep 24

Mars transits Leo from Aug 8 – Sep 24, 2015

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Mantra: my power is in my heart

the birth of venus

Venus Retrograde in Leo ⚢ July 31 - Sep 6

Venus turns retrograde in Leo from July 31 - Sep 6, 2015

Click here to learn about Venus. Click here to learn about Leo.

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.

As the word retrograde implies, it’s time to go back, to finish, review, redo. Venus Retrograde started in Virgo a few days ago, but now she backtracks into Leo. When Venus is retrograde, it is not advisable to make major changes to your home or personal appearance, as these aspects of life are ruled by the Goddess of Love. According to CafeAstrology, when Venus is Retrograde “…we don’t seem to be in touch with exactly what and who we value, or, some might say we are seeing things more or too clearly.”

Venus Retrograde in Leo

Venus transited Leo the first week of June until just over a week ago - so we’re back for round 2. Let’s wax poetic on the nature of Venus Retrograde in this fixed fire sign. Venus wants us to be happy and comfortable, especially in our relationships with others. The retrograde period puts tremendous strain on friendships and partnerships. Venus Rx in Leo emphasizes the Self above all else. This theme is a holdover from Venus Rx in Virgo, although it manifests differently here. Venus Retrograde in Virgo draws us back to the Self in a way that feels uncomfortable yet cathartic. Virgo doesn’t always appreciate herself as she feels guilty when she is not at the service of others, so Venus Rx in Virgo asks us to cultivate loyalty to our own code, to treat the Self with the same care, diligence and precision so thoughtfully and dutifully exercised with others.

With Venus Rx in Leo, the heart stands tall. It’s time to rework our relationship to the Self in a way that is both honest and loving. At times you may crave love and attention from others, but this is only because you will be eager to share newfound affection and devotion. Spreading warmth and joy is a way for others to see and acknowledge how hard Leo has been working on becoming a better person. The lion loves nothing more than to feel needed. In actuality, Venus Retrograde in Leo clings fiercely to love in order to free the Self from the ego’s vice grip: liberation through the trials and triumphs of the heart. We also see this contradiction in the fact that Leos love to be right, but only because it allows them to better help others.

However! From CafeAstrology:

Affection is difficult to express in a natural or spontaneous manner. We might find others are lacking in sincerity or genuineness in their expressions of social niceties. (We may be inclined to do the same!) … It’s hard to trust others just now, and, perhaps more so, it’s difficult to trust our own instincts … People might appear to be more selfish, withdrawn, and self-protective.

The ego joins the table

Venus now encourages us to be firm in our sense of Self and deal with conflict head-on. Venus Retrograde in Leo invites the ego for dinner but then never asks him to leave. Venus in Leo lives fearlessly from the heart, often saying things in the heat of the moment that may be perfectly true but perhaps not so pretty on the ears. When taken to the extreme, Venus in Leo creates drama just for the sake of making life interesting. Leonine fixed energy is forcefully expansive and needs somewhere to go! If caught in a weak moment of boredom or stagnation, we may overstate reality to create momentary excitement, respite from the humdrum. Another possibility is over-indulgence: spending too much money, going out excessively etc.

This transit provides opportunities to finally say everything that has been slowly ripening within. Venus Retrograde often marks the end of significant relationships - not because incidents occur, but because we have enough confidence at last to speak up. For those who are especially sensitive to Venusian energy, this aspect will be more prominent. Almost every time that Venus Retrograde occurs, a relationship ends in my life! It is very important to surrender to the impulse to communicate when it arises. This urge indicates that a window of divine timing has opened. From CafeAstrology:

When breakups do occur in the second half of a Venus retrograde cycle, I have noticed they are imperfect. They are not often clean breaks. Couples and friends may reunite later or if they stay broken up, they might often wonder if it was the right thing to do - something is often left hanging. Venus retrograde is a period for clearing the decks and dealing with the past so as to move forward fresh and re-energized …

Venus Retrograde wants to feel at home, both physically and psychologically; you may move to a new residence or question whether you’re in the “right place.” Venus Retrograde gets us “in touch with our deeper, less obvious, and less superficial needs and wants.” (Cafe Astrology) This vibration lends itself nicely to the feeling of “all things fated” that seems unique to Venus Retrograde. Venus in Leo is usually a very social time, but planning major social engagements is not advised now. This is probably fortuitous because Venus in Leo has a tendency to talk more, especially about the self, and listen less.

Many of you were born when Venus was retrograde. Those with this disposition may not feel the effects of this period as much, if at all. To find your Venus sign and whether she 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: my heart speaks

AQU

Full Moon in Aquarius ❍ July 31, 2015

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

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

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

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

Axis of identity

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

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

Not so tolerant after all

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

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

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

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

Mantra: humble

bg

Mercury in Leo ☿ July 23 - Aug 7

Mercury transits Leo from July 23 – Aug 7, 2015

Click here to learn about Mercury. Click here to learn about Leo.

Mercury transits to fixed fire Leo after swimming through Cancer for the last two weeks. I’m about to keel over from all of the dark emotional energy churning around the planet right now. I feel your collective pain and anguish on a soul level and I’m here, I’m here, I’m here - you are all loved. I don’t understand how unspeakably awful things routinely happen to the most angelic souls. We are in this together, my friends, and those of us who are strong and healthy will burn even brighter to light the way. Let’s begin by harnessing the power of Mercury in Leo: at once unapologetically bold and unbelievably generous; expressive, warm, straight from the heart. Mercury last transited Leo from July 31 - Aug 15, 2014. Any themes that predominated then will now resurface.

Here are the facts

Mercury in Leo is matter-of-fact. His favorite subject is the Self. Yes, this usually indicates a lack of self-awareness, but not always. Have patience as we all learn how to navigate Leo’s fiery egoism. Listen carefully to what and how you speak. The way we present ourselves to the world now takes on a confident and grandiose tone: think brilliant speeches, images and vivid textures. We’re finally ready to venture out and be proud of who we are.

Leo loves a challenge, as long as there’s plenty of time to nap and relax along the way - despite being a fire sign, Leo has no problem sitting still. He’s also a big talker: lots of exaggeration, self-promotion, big plans for the future. Mercury in Leo doesn’t mind endless chit-chatting or small talk if the conversation is about him. Leo loves to speak for dramatic effect. He paints with his words: broad, colorful brushstrokes, bright and childlike. If he speaks irrationally with a great tumbling of words issuing forth from the ego’s wellspring, keep in mind that Mercury in Leo ultimately wants to be appreciated. Once this falls into place, the lion can then dole it out to others. That’s how Leo operates: respect me first…and we’ll see after that. Mercury in Leo stands up for himself. He feels no shame in emotional release and lets it out whenever he wants someone to listen!

Axis of identity

Mercury transited the lion’s opposite sign (Aquarius) from January to March earlier this year. Mercury is quick like lightning in his natural state: the epitome of true mutable energy. Mercury in Leo, as noted, is comparatively stubborn and resistant to change. This could also be said of Mercury in Aquarius, although the two placements are quite different. Mercury in Aquarius is rather emotionally detached due to excessive cerebral energy. Conversations with Mercury in Aquarius are incredibly exciting, invigorating and difficult to follow. Every time I have a (long) conversation with a true Aquarius, I am inspired to go out and revolutionize the planet, as Aquarians are notoriously community and social justice oriented. Mercury in Aquarius is energetic to the point of mental exhaustion.

Aquarius’ mantra is I know. Just as with Mercury in Leo, we get in touch with our inner child here - both the curious, light, adventurous side and the one that insists he already knows everything about the world. Indeed Leo and Aquarius are both obstinate, almost forceful. However, Mercury in Aquarius is generally more tolerant than the lion. Aquarians’ natural acceptance of all people and ideas makes them easy to talk with and often excellent advice givers, as they are especially adept at remaining objective. It is challenging for Mercury in Aquarius, however, to stay connected to both the heart and the mind; as a diehard rationalist, the water bearer leaves little room for sentiment. This is where Mercury in Leo steps in. He may not be as witty or intellectual, eschewing scientific/analytical communication in favor of heartfelt monologues, but he is just as progressive and inventive in the emotional realm. With Mercury in Leo, we need to actively cultivate forward-thinking ideas that push the boundaries of social acceptability - if not, the lion gets sucked into caring too much about what other people are thinking/doing.

Mercury in Leo does not like change: spirited but not necessarily spontaneous; slow and thick when left to his own devices, even rigid or old-fashioned. Mercury in Leo thirsts for attention, but he does not use people. Catch him at the right moment, and he’ll make you feel like the most special person in the world. He communicates with strong statements and powerful words. We are asked now to work on communication basics and cerebral pursuits as they relate to the ego. Mercury in Leo may be potentially reckless or volatile, but usually not impolite.

Enough for now. Get some rest, little stargazers.

If you were born with Mercury in Leo, 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: my heart speaks

Phases10-5x3w

First Quarter Moon in Scorpio ☽ July 24, 2015

The 1st Quarter in Scorpio comes exact on Thursday July 23, 2015 at 10:04 pm MST

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

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

For those who are strongly affected by lunar energy, the quarter moon phases are especially trying. Square aspects are sharp, angular junctions that prompt change. As CafeAstrology notes, the quarter phases feel like a “crisis of consciousness.” We are encouraged now to examine all that was established with the New Moon in Cancer. The waxing moon symbolizes return to total awareness. This is the best time to tweak and improve upon existing strategies. At every full moon we manifest new moon intentions; as such, the week between the first quarter and full moon (July 23 - 31) is quite potent.

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

The scorpion domain

I like to imagine each moon cycle as a procession of poignantly themed challenges. Generally speaking, the Leo cycle seeks to empower the individual - freedom of expression is the name of the game. So here we are (already!) at the first stop along the lion path: a seductive, intoxicating encounter with Scorpio, the zodiac’s master of transformation. The First Quarter Moon in Scorpio addresses trust issues as well as power and control struggles. Scorpio and Leo have little in common besides their doggedly fixed nature. Leo is the naive, self-centered, happy-go-lucky child of the zodiac, and Scorpio the dark and brooding introvert with dwindling faith in humanity. Both are amusingly content to be as such! Dialog centers on the following: finding balance between healthy self-appreciation and the constant, inevitable metamorphosis of the ego.

Leo seeks company with direct, straightforward personalities. This is not how Scorpio operates. Moreover, Scorpio is not about to entertain a room full of people, as Leo would have it. Leo fears the scorpion’s complexity, preferring a simple yet playful life. Scorpio, on the other hand, fears letting go, living spontaneously, allowing the Self to be free of cares. The scorpion is easily frustrated by the lion’s insistence on me - Scorpio sees the Self as perpetually evolving. From the Llewellyn Journal:

Leo’s ego … hogs the stage when it can. Scorpio finds that troublesome and wants Leo to do a little honest, inner digging to uncover why it demands so much personal attention and adoration. Always upbeat about itself, the Lion doesn’t feel it needs such psychoanalysis and doesn’t like being investigated. ‘I’ve got nothing to hide. What you see is what you get.’

The First Quarter Moon in Scorpio seeks a path that is not too dark - not too much scorpion suspicion - but not too light either - not too much leonine idealism or unchecked trust in the world; we must be guarded but not closed.

Divine water energy

The First Quarter in Scorpio connects us to water energy, something we are deeply familiar with after a lovely spin through Cancer. However, this transit is more forceful – indeed, Scorpio is a fixed sign. It is interesting to note that Leo is ruled by the Sun, the center of our solar system, and Scorpio by Pluto, the planet farthest from center! With just this metaphor we see how differently these two entities move through life. The purpose of this first quarter moon is rebirth (Scorpio) in our sense of Self and ultimate identity (Leo) - powerful indeed. Imagine the Sun and Pluto stretching their cosmic arms over the vast distance between them, intertwining in some remote asteroid belt. Together they bring about irreversible change. Emotional and psychic energies are at an all-time high. There is a tendency for greater volatility in the form of outbursts and unveiling of secrets.

Scorpio lives cautiously because she is so familiar with the Underworld - she recognizes that at any moment, the shadows within may arise and wreak havoc. She would do well to learn from Leo’s sunny disposition, just as Leo would do well to be more wary, to learn how to read others with more accuracy. I expect that the transition from predominantly Cancer energy to Scorpio will be emotionally trying - deep breaths, fellow stargazers, t’is only a phase. The First Quarter Moon in Scorpio last fell in the beginning of August 2014. Any themes that predominated then will now resurface. The ego is operating in full force, you’ve been warned! Expectations are high - expectations that others will worship and pamper us. Be mindful, stay humble. I suggest meditation near water. 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: I move within

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Sun at home in Leo ☼ July 22 - Aug 23

The Sun transits Leo from July 22 – August 23

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

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

If you are a Leo, now comes your Solar Return.

Solar cycle

The Sun in Leo marks the kickoff for the coming month and the official end of the lunar/Cancer cycle. Energy in the crab realm is passive, slow, cautious. This year’s Cancer season heralded much emotional trauma. Now we move to Leo, the would-be king of the zodiac. Prepare for life to pick up even more over the next few weeks. In classic astrology Leo is associated with learning, leisure, recreation, entertainment, children and romance. Leo loves drama and performances of all kinds – and perhaps doing a little shameless performing himself, consciously or not! The focus this month is on enjoyment and expression. Expect to feel more generous and for others to be more generous with you. Leo is notoriously loyal, magnanimous and jovial. When imbalanced, lion energy is stubborn, aggressive, egotistical and loud.

Leo is ruled by the Sun - in astrology we say that the Sun is therefore returning “home” at this time. Due to the literal centrality of the ruling planet (er, star), Leo has a reputation for self-centeredness - I am a star! Rather than seeing this is as problematic, as pure egoism, consider how the Sun in Leo bestows a divine capacity for self-appreciation. The lion is delightfully narcissistic, yes, but Leo has self-serving tendencies because this is precisely how he creates and maintains reality - from the inside out, radiating from the center of the heart. Leo even rules the heart in the human body.

The primordial stage of the zodiac wheel is over. We’ve shoved off into the middle realm - what are you learning?

The axis of identity

Studying the polarities of the zodiac wheel is an effective method to learn more about the signs. You may recall that Aquarius is Leo’s opposite sign, 180 degrees across on the wheel. Leo is Aquarius’ crude yet dazzling predecessor; together they create the axis of identity. Although we must appreciate both ends of the spectrum, I believe it is even more imperative that we regain balance between me vs. we energies on our planet. We can all agree that there is an imbalance in this department, particularly in the West. One solution is to reframes our “stories:” the things we tell the Self about the Self. We don’t have to focus all of our energy on emulating altruistic Aquarian ideals, bashing the lion’s propensity for self-absorbed behavior in the process. We can still glorify me energy, but it must be radically different from what we know. I am speaking in particular of self-love as it is practiced in Buddhism and yoga.

Reframing our collective sense of Self is not a simple task, especially because the Sun in Leo encourages us to be proud of who we are as individuals. It’s quite natural to cultivate an identity firmly rooted in the ego - this is how I am, this is what I do. Celebrating our success as individuals is so commonplace that we rarely stop to question its real value. What would it mean to disassociate our identity from our work? From family? From bank accounts and census data? Who are you when you’re alone? In dreams? In meditation or in yoga? Who are you when you separate the Self from the intellect and from knowledge?

Hearts on fire

We’re moving from water to fire…feel that transition viscerally, in your imagination and in your senses. Close your eyes – rain falls heavy and steady, but it’s slowing now, fading to a drizzle. The sun returns, softly at first, then brightly.

Leo loves to be appreciated and is an idealist at heart. Although on the outside he appears very confident, Leo holds himself to very high standards and can be quite self-conscious when imbalanced. When balanced, the lion is humble and self-aware. Leo is a fixed sign. I feel that this modality is routinely misunderstood in the lion realm. Leo often appears self-righteous, but it’s really just in the delivery. This is where we see the intransigence of the fixed modality in its full manifestation. We also see this when Leo enters an argument. He comes armed with what he considers to be “the facts.” Leo does not like to be wrong and thus spends too much time on the defense when imbalanced. When balanced, the lion is hardworking and intensely driven to succeed. However, it is difficult to imagine this if you happen to catch Leo in what I like to call cat-mode. Leo loves to sleep in and be lazy for looong periods of time. A common leonine fantasy is to live a life of wealth and luxury, doing nothing but lounging.

For this transit I suggest a ritual such as a bonfire or sacred burning. Allow yourself to find joy in the symbolic qualities of this beloved element. Fire burns away everything that no longer serves us. Fire energy is inherently liberating. You can and must reject doubt, insecurity and fear. Fire does not reflect. It simply moves. No thoughts or questions now as to whether or not you have become – you are. We’re moving down the line of chakras, now centered at the heart. Get out of your moodspace, allow your sensitivities to rest. Be firm in your sense of Self. Step with confidence. Namaste.

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

Mantra: I love myself

Saturn Retrograde in Scorpio ♄ June 14 - Aug 2

Saturn continues his retrograde transit in Scorpio from June 14 – August 2

Click here to learn about Saturn. Click here to learn about Scorpio.

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, Saturn rules earthbound Capricorn, but he’s been transiting fiery Sagittarius since December 2014. Saturn in Sagittarius embodies quite the contradiction: Saturn is all about contraction, Sagittarius expansion. Sagittarius stretches us beyond what we believe possible, while Saturn mandates that everything be traditional, concise and orderly. Saturn in Sagittarius grows rapidly, yet still within a framework: structured and disciplined evolution. Sagittarius rules truth, morality and honor. Saturn in this placement seeks philosophies that uplift and empower. Sagittarius is a free thinker, but this is not how I would describe Saturn. Saturn will not indulge the centaur’s propensity for irresponsibility or recklessness.

Saturn in Scorpio

For the last three months, Saturn has been spinning retrograde in Sagittarius, but now we’re dialing all the way back into water-loving Scorpio. Before last winter, Saturn had been hanging out in Scorpio since October 2012. The themes we are about to encounter are therefore already very familiar to all of us on a personal level. Saturn in Scorpio: a time of intense scrutiny. Both Saturn and Scorpio energies can be suspicious and manipulative when imbalanced. Combined, these energies direct our attention towards issues of power. Saturn in Scorpio reveals what makes us feel vulnerable, especially in relation to our dependencies. It is perfectly normal and natural to have dependencies, but now is the time to cut ties with people, support systems and addictions that no longer serve us. Although it is unpleasant, this process will leave us feeling even more empowered and purposeful than before.

While Saturn claws at our most hidden, visceral insecurities, Scorpio desperately attempts to cover them up. Saturn in Scorpio examines intimacy. We have more demands and expectations for others. Any and all illusions are exposed, giving us total insight into the true nature of our relationships. Saturn in Scorpio urges us to share our souls without fear of rejection, but this very thing is the most excruciating. Like a scorpion lying flat between a rock and the earth, we reach blindly for total contact, and in the process come ever closer to the Self. There is an inherent conflict here between control and faith. Ideally we come to realize that we are master of the Self and nothing else - the Self entirely controls and creates reality. How much energy are we expending trying to change that which we cannot? Do we cling to blame and grudges? Where can we be more forgiving? Issues surrounding debt – either material or emotional – may figure prominently in this transit.

Saturn Retrograde

For about 4.5 months out of the year, Saturn is retrograde. Saturn Rx asks us to review and accept our “failures” – but are they really? The Buddha decried that there is no failure, only lessons learned. If you have been working with sincerity radiating from your heart and soul, karma will reward you handsomely now. Saturn delivers his gifts of abundance even if we do “fail.” As with everything in life, intention rules supreme. Acting insincerely permits Saturn Rx to unleash the full glory of his consequences. Whether you’ve been slacking or not, this transit is really just one long test of endurance. Progress must be examined with utmost realism. Saturn Rx wants to know: what are you truly capable of?

Peering into the heart and gut to see all that hurts, all that we’ve lost and all that makes us less than happy is our task now. Saturn Rx in Scorpio asks us to confront our pain so that we can begin healing. It’s time to delve into the subconscious to see which patterns dictate our lives. Before we can conquer these vicious cycles, we must face them head-on. This transit demands that we feel everything at the deepest level before we are allowed to move forward. If you attempt to rush this process, you will be presented with even more challenges. Like a phoenix rising from the ashes, we can and will transform. This is a critical period in which we reclaim personal accountability – only YOU can make yourself happy!

Slow and steady

Saturn moves slowly and deliberately. He demonstrates that nothing is worth having if it is does not take time and work. I visualize Saturn Rx in Scorpio reaching down into the dark profundity of the psyche to overturn blackened rocks and logs. What’s underneath? Our first inclination may be to shy away from that which is actually a healing force. Let’s face and define spiritual blocks with the knowledge that, in so doing, we effectively dissolve the power of lingering fear, hesitation and mistrust. Indeed, to know the problem is to know the solution. If balanced, you will find meaning even in mystery and confusion.

Saturn teaches that change is necessary to move forward. Nothing about this planet is quick, easy or direct. We will be pushed, not led. Saturn Rx in Scorpio renders definitive endings and beginnings that help us grow and mature. The source of bad habits, compulsions, debts and addictions are revealed so that whatever is truly missing – whatever led to a state of imbalance in the first place – can be illuminated. Life might get messy as we turn to that which we have suppressed. Think of this transit as an expedition into a deep, dark cave: you only want to do it once, so do it well! Expect some fuzziness concerning long-term goals, plans and responsibilities.

I was born when Saturn was retrograde. Those with this disposition may not feel the effects of this period as much, if at all. To find out your Saturn 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: I am in control