@astrogrrl

New Moon in Gemini ~ June 19, 2012

Sun, 17 Jun 2012 21:47:00 -0700

Gemini ©MacPaw

Geminis are specially blessed this year! First, Jupiter (the benefactor) entered Gemini earlier this month to stay until June 2013. And now, a second new moon in Gemini! Not a Gemini? No worries for we’re offered another chance to adopt any changes we may not have had to opportunity or courage to do last month.

New Moons signify rebirth, beginnings, a clean slate, the start of a new cycle. This new moon highlights Gemini qualities (cerebral, social, connections) and 3rd house themes (information, thought, ideas, communication). Gemini is natively governed by Mercury, who is currently swimming in watery Cancer, where sensitivities perk up and the ability to discern truths beneath the surface is heightened.

This Gemini-New Moon (blending of heart & soul) occurs with Uranus and Pluto still fighting it out in the background. For some of us, the battle may be internal (perhaps, the head and heart are at odds) or the conflict may be work-related (at odds with a supervisor/subordinate). Perhaps, the past two eclipses brought unexpected events that you are now adjusting to; or resulated unpleasant experiences that leaves you wondering “wtf?!”; or makes you feel like you have lost control of your own life or that you question whether you can still trust your own judgements. However this new moon phase manifests in your world, make a conscious effort to shift your perspective or at least be open to receiving messages of what you might not be “seeing”. Becoming aware of something you’ve been “missing” may just be what’s needed to get you to your next destination or step to take.

The new moon occurs at 29° of Gemini, with the Moon moving on to Cancer by 8:47 p.m. Pacific / 11:47 p.m. Eastern. Those born within three days of June 19 or December 20; or have planets/house angles around late degree of mutable signs or early degrees of cardinal signs may experience this new moon more tangibly than most.

For me, this New Moon makes alignments to the cusps of my angular houses; as a Virgo-rising, falls in my natal 10th house (future goals/professional pursuits) and as a Cancer-rising, falls in my solar 12th house (spirituality/subconscious). It’s been difficult to make the time for quiet meditation. I need to make time for it now and ask myself what it is I truly desire to pursue in life, career, etc.

How might this new moon manifest in your life? Look to the natal house this new moon will occupy in your birth chart. Match the sign and degree to the sign on the house cusp. Then, click here to read about the new moon transiting natal houses.

Here are the symbols associated with the zodiac signs.
Aries ♈ • Taurus ♉ • Gemini ♊ • Cancer ♋ • Leo ♌ • Virgo ♍
Libra ♎ • Scorpio ♏ • Sagittarius ♐ • Capricorn ♑ • Aquarius ♒ • Pisces ♓

If you don’t have your birth chart, you may use your Sun sign and/or your Rising/Ascendant sign, if you know it. Look for your Sun and Rising Signs below then click here for a brief explanation of the New Moon transit in those houses.

Aries-Sun or Aries-Rising ~ 3rd House
Taurus-Sun or Taurus-Rising ~ 2nd House
Gemini-Sun or Gemini-Rising ~ 1st House
Cancer-Sun or Cancer-Rising ~ 12th House
Leo-Sun or Leo-Rising ~ 11th House
Virgo-Sun or Virgo-Rising ~ 10th House
Libra-Sun or Libra-Rising ~ 9th House
Scorpio-Sun or Scorpio-Rising ~ 8th House
Sagittarius-Sun or Sagittarius-Rising ~ 7th House
Capricorn-Sun or Capricorn-Rising ~ 6th House
Aquarius-Sun or Aquarius-Rising ~ 5th House
Pisces-Sun or Pisces-Rising ~ 4th House

Unsure if you have natal planets/house angles on or around late degree of mutable signs or early degrees of cardinal signs? Cast your own birth chart at alabe.com for use as reference — birth date, time, and place required.

Related articles: The New Moon in Natal Houses

Full Moon / Lunar Eclipse ~ June 4, 2012

Mon, 28 May 2012 10:57:00 -0700

“Centaur” ©~prinzesser

Full moons signify the completion, the culmination of what may have been initiated during the previous new moon/solar eclipse in Gemini, which encouraged us to “see” through a different set of lenses. This Full Moon Eclipse in Sagittarius link up with a retrograde-Venus, giving focus to our “relationships”.

Venus herself can hardly be bothered these days. She is busy crossing the face of the Sun (June 5-6) and showing herself to us Earthlings. The last time Venus transited across the Sun was in 2004, and the next time will be in 2117. So, it is a rare treat indeed … astronomically and astrologically speaking :)

And all this happening under the umbrella of yet another celestial event with long lasting impact ~ Uranus square Pluto! A lot going on celestially!

To understand this full moon/lunar eclipse a bit better, we’ll need a brief discussion on Venus since she is actively influencing the energy of the eclipsed full moon, what it means for her to be retrograde, and how her energy meshes with the full moon (balance between our heart/Moon & soul/Sun).

In astrology, Venus symbolizes our relationships (with others-may it be intimate, platonic or familial; with finances-may it be our income, material possessions or financial security; with one’s self-may it be our sense of self worth or our ability to know when our needs/wants should come first); our desires (relational, material, sensual); our values (material worth, self worth, values system); and our aesthetic tastes. When Venus is retrograde, she becomes more reflective. As her focus turns inward, it is common for couples to break up, sever old friendships, reconnect with previous exes, opt for a new look, encounter financial gains/losses, or make decisions that may be out of character, especially with issues regarding relationships or finances.

In astrology, eclipses are accelerators. They speed up events/issues/situations in our personal lives and demand for them to be dealt with. Eclipses are supercharged full and new moons with influence extending up to six months. As mentioned before, the Gemini-solar eclipse (beginnings; blending of the heart & soul) urged us to “see” through a different set of lenses; this Sagittarius-lunar eclipse (endings; seeking balance between the heart & soul) illuminates upon our relationships, finances and values. For the weeks/months following these pair of eclipses, we may be working on finding the balance between our earthly desires and our heart’s desires (lunar eclipse+Venus) as our perspective shift to reveal a truth we may not have been ready to see before or may have been previously hidden from us (solar eclipse+Neptune/North Node influence).

This Eclipsed Full Moon occurs at 15° of Sagittarius on June 4, 2012 at 4:03 a.m. Pacific / 7:03 a.m. Eastern. Those born within 3 days of June 4th or December 6th or with natal planets and/or house angles on or around 15° of mutable signs may feel the effects of this full moon/lunar eclipse more tangibly than others. And those celebrating a birthday on or before this eclipse may also carry the energy eclipse throughout their Solar Return (birthday) year.

For me, this Full Moon/Lunar Eclipse plays well with both my natal Venus and Moon; as a Virgo-rising, falls in my natal house of thought, communication and relationship with siblings; and as a Cancer-Sun, falls in my solar house of health, routine/work and service to others.

How might this full moon manifest in your world? Look to the natal house this new moon will occupy in your birth chart. Match the sign and degree to the sign on the house cusp. Then, click here to read about the full moon transiting natal houses.

Aries-Sun or Aries Rising ~ 9th House
Taurus-Sun or Taurus Rising ~ 8th House
Gemini-Sun or Gemini-Rising ~ 7th House
Cancer-Sun or Cancer-Rising ~ 6th House
Leo-Sun or Leo-Rising ~ 5th House
Virgo-Sun or Virgo-Rising ~ 4th House
Libra-Sun or Libra-Rising ~ 3rd House
Scorpio-Sun or Scorpio-Rising ~ 2nd House
Sagittarius-Sun or Sagittarius-Rising ~ 1st House
Capricorn-Sun or Capricorn-Rising ~ 12th House
Aquarius-Sun or Aquarius-Rising ~ 11th House
Pisces-Sun or Pisces-Rising ~ 10th House

Unsure if you have natal planets/house angles on or around 15° of mutable signs? Cast your own birth chart at alabe.com — birth date, time, and place required.

Related articles:

The Full Moon in Natal Houses
Eclipses in Astrology
Venus Retrograde ~ May 15 to June 26, 2012
Venus Transits Across the Sun ~ June 5-6, 2012
Uranus Square Pluto ~ 2012 to 2015
Neptune in Pisces ~ 2012 to 2025
Solar Return

“Centaur” image credit and © ~prinzesser.

Venus Transits the Sun ~ June 5-6, 2012

Mon, 28 May 2012 09:43:00 -0700

Transit of Venus, 2004 ©Wikimedia Commons

Next week’s Lunar Eclipse is immediately followed by a rare astronomical event. Venus will cross the Sun and be seen from the Earth. This previously occurred on June 8, 2004. It happens again next week, visible from June 5-6, and won’t happen again until December 11, 2117.

Check out when to view and where to be at Wikipedia or NASA.

The full transit will be visible from the western Pacific Ocean and adjacent lands. Viewers in North America will be able to see the start of the transit on 5 June until sunset, while viewers in South Asia, the Middle East, East Africa, and Europe except the Iberian peninsula will catch the end of it after sunrise on 6 June. The transit will not be visible in most of South America or western Africa. The regions from which it is visible are shown in the map below.

Related articles:

Venus Retrograde ~ May 15 to June 26, 2012
Full Moon/Lunar Eclipse in Sagittarius ~ June 4, 2012

Solar Eclipse 2012: When And Where To See It Best (via...

Sat, 19 May 2012 20:57:04 -0700

Solar Eclipse 2012: When And Where To See It Best

(via huffingtonpost)

New Moon / Solar Eclipse in Gemini ~ May 20, 2012

Thu, 17 May 2012 21:01:00 -0700

Annular solar eclipse creates a “ring of fire” over China in 2010. ©ChinaFotoPress, Getty Images via National Geographic

Another eclipse is upon us. This time it’s a solar eclipse in Gemini. Eclipses intensify new and full moons, giving them an extra kick, a bigger dose of potency, and greater reach/influence. A typical new and full moon have about two weeks of influence, while eclipses can have an impact for as long as six months.

In astrology, eclipses trigger necessary changes to one’s journey in life. Because these changes are triggered outside of one’s own volition, they are often harsh, sudden, and undeniable. The initial shock evoke sadness, confusion, frustration, anger, worry, and possibly depression. However, it is our reaction past the initial shock that defines how we will allow these eclipses to influence us.

This new moon highlights Gemini qualities (cerebral, social, connections) and 3rd house themes (information, thought, ideas, communication). Gemini is governed by the planet Mercury, who is currently transiting Taurus, where our thoughts lean towards permanence and stability.

In Gemini, the Moon is energetic, excitable, gregarious, an extrovert often opting for logic over emotions. It may not be the most comfortable sign for the Moon to be in since she seems happiest when swimming in a world of emotions :) But Gemini encourages the Moon to get out more and express itself freely.

This Eclipsed New Moon in Gemini (blending of heart & soul) opposes (needs balance with) the North Node (life path) and squares (conflicts with) Neptune (spiritual truth), encouraging us to “see” through a different set of lenses. Elsewhere in the sky, Venus (relationships/finance) is retrograde (from May 15 to June 26) while Mars (aggression/motivation) link up Chiron (brokenness/healing) and Pluto (endings/transformation), just as Uranus’ square with Pluto gets within orb.

The combination of all these celestial movements and alignments adds tension to the opposition and square the new moon has with North Node and Neptune. We can be so “set” in the how, who and what where our immediate world is concerned that it’s hard to form a new way of looking at the same situation or an existing, continuing event/relationship. Allow this eclipsed new moon to show you the other side of the same coin, so to speak. Listen to your inner voice (Neptune) and let it guide you toward the path (North Node) that is right for you and your situation/s.

“Seeing differently” may be a little difficult to achieve with Gemini’s ruler, Mercury, currently under the influence of Taurean energy which is practical and prefers tried and true over hypothetical or experimental. No worries though. Mercury comes home to Gemini a few days after the new moon on the 25th.

So if there’s a stubborn streak you recognize within yourself or those around you that you can’t quite explain or get past, hopefully, you are able to exercise patience. Revisiting the issue a week later may just give you the edge you need to break through whatever obstacle may be keeping you from achieving that result you are hoping for.

The new moon/solar eclipse occur at 0° of Gemini. Those born within 3 days of May 20th or November 23rd; or have planets/house angles around 0° of mutable signs may experience this new moon solar eclipse more profoundly than most, especially within during May-July. Those celebrating a birthday on or before this eclipse may also carry the energy eclipse throughout their Solar Return (birthday) year.

For me, this New Moon falls in my natal 9th house (higher consciousness), as a Virgo-rising and my solar 12th house (subconscious), as a Cancer-Sun. With Venus-rx also conjunct (blending energies) my natal Mercury in my natal 9th house, redefining all types relationships (my friends/family, myself, my money) may also be a focus of this new moon/solar eclipse.

Aries-Sun or Aries-Rising ~ 3rd House
Taurus-Sun or Taurus-Rising ~ 2nd House
Gemini-Sun or Gemini-Rising ~ 1st House
Cancer-Sun or Cancer-Rising ~ 12th House
Leo-Sun or Leo-Rising ~ 11th House
Virgo-Sun or Virgo-Rising ~ 10th House
Libra-Sun or Libra-Rising ~ 9th House
Scorpio-Sun or Scorpio-Rising ~ 8th House
Sagittarius-Sun or Sagittarius-Rising ~ 7th House
Capricorn-Sun or Capricorn-Rising ~ 6th House
Aquarius-Sun or Aquarius-Rising ~ 5th House
Pisces-Sun or Pisces-Rising ~ 4th House

Unsure if you have natal planets/house angles on or around 0° of mutable signs? Cast your own birth chart at alabe.com — birth date, time, and place required.

For those doing the new moon wishes ritual, the moon will be new on May 20th at 4:47 p.m. Pacific / 7:47 p.m. Eastern and will be void of course on May 22nd at 3:50 p.m. Pacific / 6:50 p.m. Eastern. Click here for Jan Spiller’s DailyOm.com article, briefly explaining new moon wishes.

Related articles:

The New Moon in Natal Houses
Eclipses in Astrology
Venus Retrograde ~ May 15 to June 26, 2012
Uranus Square Pluto ~ 2011 to 2015
Saturn in Libra ~ 2009 to 2012
Chiron in Pisces ~ 2010 to 2019
Neptune in Pisces ~ 2012 to 2025
Solar Return

Eclipses in Astrology

Wed, 16 May 2012 05:34:00 -0700

“New Moon” ©National Geographic

With a pair of eclipses occurring next week (May 20, solar eclipse in Gemini) and early next month (June 4, lunar eclipse in Sagittarius), I thought I’d repost an old article I posted on my original astrology blog site with blogger.

Eclipses often fall prey to the misconception that they are harbingers of terrible things, disappointments, destruction, ruin, and the like. It’s all about perception, though. Eclipses, in astrology, are accelerators. They speed up events, issues, situations in our personal lives and demand for them to be dealt with. The degree of difficulty, then, becomes dependent on:

the readiness of the individual to tackle these challenges
his/her willingness to do the work required
his/her commitment to the cause/s which is really the self and its growth. The level of influence an eclipse or set of eclipses have also depends on individual birth charts.

I think astrologer, Eric Francis, summed it best in “Understanding Eclipses,” where he wrote:

Eclipses work on three levels, broadly speaking. The first is personal. The second is collective. The third is where the personal and the collective intersect.

In personal terms, modern astrologers have begun to see the light on eclipses, if you ask me. In newspaper horoscope columns, they are generally described as moments of opportunity, times of peak intensity and critical juncture points. All this is true, though one could argue it’s a matter of perception. Do you congratulate someone when they lose their job, because they get to discover who they are, collecting unemployment for a year? What do you say when a horrid relationship ‘suddenly’ falls apart? What do you say to a tidal wave?

The perception of an astrologer can be a significant influence on the lives of people who encounter their interpretations. Even if it goes no further than self-fulfilling prophesy, astrologers owe it to the world to rise above fears and superstitions and allow faith and reason to carry their work.

And I see it happening. The more consciously eclipses are handled, the less they are inclined to do damage and the more they are inclined to give us a push in the right direction. Eclipses visiting one’s own sign would certainly have been regarded as a curse, and still is in some astrological systems.

Eclipses trigger necessary changes to one’s journey in life. Because these changes are triggered outside of one’s own volition, they are often harsh, sudden, and undeniable. The initial shock evoke sadness, confusion, frustration, anger, worry, and possibly depression. However, it is our reaction past the initial shock that defines how we will allow these eclipses to influence us.

Originally posted on my astrogrrl blogger site, July 6, 2009.

Retrogrades in Astrology

Mon, 14 May 2012 06:51:00 -0700

Sun, Mercury, Venus, Earth, Mars ©JPL/NASA

Retrograde periods are typically a time for the prefix “re” — reflect, rethink, re-plan, review, retool, reorganize, redefine, re-examine, rewrite, reread, repair.

This period does not need to be daunting, be feared or to cause any of us to suspend living our lives in any way. Making allowances and/or taking preemptive actions to minimize the unavoidable retrograde effects will help with keeping retrograde cycles bearable. So, be especially aware of when faster moving planets (Mercury, Venus, Mars) are retrograde and plan accordingly.

Retrograde cycles, especially of faster moving planets, may pose more challenges to those with natal personal planets or house angles within the sign and degrees the retrograde planet is visiting.

To get an idea of how a planet’s retrograde motion might play out in your immediate world, consider: the planet (its function), the sign it’s transiting (its personality), and where (which astrological house) in your natal (with birth time & place) and/or solar (birth date only) charts the retrograde period (degrees visited/revisited).

Each astrological house represents a different aspect of our lives/of the self.

1st house ~ self, ego, potential
2nd house ~ possessions, income, material worth
3rd house ~ thought, communication, siblings, commerce, writing
4th house ~ private life, family, home, the past
5th house ~ creative projects, fun, pleasure, children, love
6th house ~ physical health/wellbeing, work/routine, servicing others
7th house ~ the shared self, partnerships, marriage
8th house ~ shared resources, investments, debt, regeneration, transformation, sex
9th house ~ higher consciousness/education, travel, experiential learning, publishing
10th house ~ public life, professional pursuits, goals, the future
11th house ~ friendships, associations, society
12th house ~ hidden world, spirituality, subconscious, mental health

For reference, here are the symbols associated with the zodiac signs.
Aries ♈ • Taurus ♉ • Gemini ♊ • Cancer ♋ • Leo ♌ • Virgo ♍
Libra ♎ • Scorpio ♏ • Sagittarius ♐ • Capricorn ♑ • Aquarius ♒ • Pisces ♓

If you don’t already have your birth chart, cast one at alabe.com ~ birth date, time and place required.

~ • ~

Here’s a bit more about retrogrades in:
Mercury | Venus | Mars

Mercury retrogrades about every 4 months for about 3 weeks. Mercury governs mental processes, communication, commerce, trade and affects all of these plus travel and electronics. Allow for delays, especially on the station days (the day when retrograde cycle begins and ends). Anticipate miscommunication so, ensure that all details are understood. Ask detailed questions to prevent misunderstandings.

If possible, until the retrograde period is over before buying a new computer, cell phone, or any other electronic items. If this is unavoidable, make sure the return/exchange/refund policy coverage is extensive enough that the purchased item can be returned/exchanged should it requires repair or replacement later. Consider buying the extra warranty offered, if the item is a costly one.

Reassess, as necessary and as much as you want, but avoid starting new projects, signing any contracts, or entering into any major agreements or commitments. It’s easy to overlook details or neglect to include information pertinent to the terms. A change of mind is also common. If you must enter into an agreement during the retrograde period, it is important to re-read all fine print, have another set of eyes go over it, and get all your questions answered before completing the transaction.

Do not underestimate the frustration, inconvenience and havoc a Mercury retrograde can produce, however.

2012 Mercury retrograde dates:

March 12, 2012 (from 6° 48’ of Aries) until April 3, 2012 (back to 23° 56’ of Pisces)
July 15, 2012 (from 12° 32’ of Leo until August 7, 2012 (back to 1° 30’ of Leo)
November 6, 2012 (from 4° 14’ of Sagittarius) until November 25, 2012 (18° 31’ Scorpio)

Venus retrogrades about every 18 months for 40 days. Venus represents our relationships (all types — intimate, platonic, family and that with the self), our material wealth, our value system/s, our self-worth, our capacity to see beauty in the world and our desires.

When Venus is retrograde, this is usually a period ideal for — reflection, reconnecting, reviewing relationships, redefining worth, and re-examining value system/s. So reassess, as necessary and as much as you want, but avoid making any major financial, relationship or other life-changing decisions during this period. You might just have a change of heart later.

Venus retrogrades from May 15, 2012 to June 26, 2012, stations at 23° 59’ and retraces her steps all the way back to 7° 32’ the sign of Gemini. Station days (May 15 and June 26) can prove to be extra challenging days as the planet gets adjusted to the speed and direction change.

Gemini governs all manners of communication, interaction, thought processes, and relationships with siblings. This retrograde period might be a time to take a look at how we communicate, especially within our significant relationships. Is he/she listening? Am I listening? Am I saying what I need to say or are my words reacting to events surrounding the situation? With Saturn still in Libra, this Venus retrograde period could be an extra challenging time for those who have not been working out the lessons transiting Saturn may have for them.

In money matters, careful not to be overly optimistic or depend on what’s expected vs. waiting for actual results. If you are entitled to payment or receiving money/inheritance, there might be a delay in getting what’s owed to you so, have a Plan B in case you need it.

Try not to make any significant or major purchases. You might realize later that you have no need of it after all or that you didn’t need to buy this particular item/model/color/design, etc.

Mars retrograde occurs approximately every other year for about two and a half months. Mars is the planet of action. He represents our drives, motivation, aggression, and assertiveness.

When Mars is retrograde, our energy level may be lower as our focus turn inward. Projects are stalled from initiating or newly begun projects may suffer delays from completion. Aggressions may initially be suppressed only for them to finally be impulsively expressed and with much greater intensity than if they were never held back to begin with.

Those with natal Mars in a water sign may internalize anger or frustration more so than usual, which is not healthy as raw emotions unexpressed leads to stress levels increasing.

Mars’ retrograde period is best spent reviewing certain aspects of our lives, reflecting upon how we normally handle anger or frustrations — do we blow up and move on? do we hold it in and let it fester?; re-examining what the motivations are behind our actions or decisions — do we act because we’re in control? or do we act because we need to react? do we typically initiate and are self-motivated? or do we take steps when we’ve had reassurance or feel supported?; and perhaps re-evaluating how we do things, how we make things happen — do we plan then act? do we rush to act?

It is, however, not ideal to start a brand, new project during a Mars retrograde. Two steps forward, one step back is something you might have to deal with.

Mars will retrograde on March 1, 2014 to May 20, 2014 in the sign of Libra. Mars stations for about two days; station days can prove to be extra challenging days as the planet gets adjusted to the speed and direction change.

Full Moon in Scorpio ~ May 5, 2012

Fri, 04 May 2012 18:54:00 -0700

Happy Cinco de Mayo and Full Moon Blessings! This month’s full moon occurs at 16° of Scorpio on May 5, 2012 at 8:35 p.m. Pacific / 11:35 p.m. Eastern. Those born within 3 days of May 5th or November 8th or with natal planets and/or house angles on or around 16° of fixed signs may experience this full moon more strongly than others.

Full moons signify the completion, culmination of what may have been initiated during the previous new moon in Taurus which reminded us that if we could dream it, we can live it. This Full Moon in Scorpio Full Moon in Scorpio dares us to look beyond what’s visible or tangible and turn our attention to what hides beneath the surface to uncover the truth or answers we seek.

Empowerment through transformation is key to this Full Moon, as the Scorpio-Moon (heart/inner drives) opposes the Sun (soul/potential) and Jupiter (expansion/opportunities). Be mindful of what/where you put your focus/attention on. That may be energy you are welcoming into your life, drawing into your world. Let this be the end of wasting time/energy/money, end of overextending one’s self, end of every little thing that doesn’t help move us forward closer to where we’d like to be.

For me, this Full Moon links up with my natal Mars (action/motivation) and Saturn (obligations/restrictions); as a Virgo-rising, falls in my natal 2nd house (income/stability) and as a Cancer-Sun, falls in my natal 5th house (creative projects/fun). There’s much work to be done (Mars/Saturn), but staying grounded and remembering to inject some fun/creativity into my everyday will keep me motivated and productive :)

How might this full moon manifest in your world? Look to the natal house this full moon will occupy in your birth chart. Match the sign and degree to the sign on the house cusp. Then, click here to read about the full moon transiting natal houses.

Aries-Sun or Aries Rising ~ 8th House
Taurus-Sun or Taurus Rising ~ 7th House
Gemini-Sun or Gemini-Rising ~ 6th House
Cancer-Sun or Cancer-Rising ~ 5th House
Leo-Sun or Leo-Rising ~ 4th House
Virgo-Sun or Virgo-Rising ~ 3rd House
Libra-Sun or Libra-Rising ~ 2nd House
Scorpio-Sun or Scorpio-Rising ~ 1st House
Sagittarius-Sun or Sagittarius-Rising ~ 12th House
Capricorn-Sun or Capricorn-Rising ~ 11th House
Aquarius-Sun or Aquarius-Rising ~ 10th House
Pisces-Sun or Pisces-Rising ~ 9th House

Unsure if you have natal planets/house angles on or around 16° of fixed signs? Cast your own birth chart at alabe.com for use as reference — birth date, time, and place required.

Related articles: The Full Moon in Natal Houses

“Scorpio” ©tattoowoo.com

Uranus Square Pluto ~ 2012 to 2015

Tue, 01 May 2012 09:49:00 -0700

Rainbow Explosion ©Teo Alfonso

As we get closer to mid-year, so does the rare square between Uranus in Aries and Pluto in Capricorn. They will be locked in this challenging link from 2012 to 2015. This energy is forceful, powerful, tense and intense. My original article on Uranus square Pluto was posted last year on my blogger site.

Here’s a little background on what Uranus has been up for the past couple of years. Uranus first ventured into Aries for a few months on May to August 2010. During that brief period, he got tangled up in that year’s Cardinal Grand Cross (the first of which involved an eclipsed full moon in Capricorn) and Cardinal T-square (which involved Saturn in Libra, Jupiter in Aries & Pluto in Capricorn). Some of us may still be experiencing the effects of 2010’s t-square. Hopefully, the changes that coincided with that period have proven or are beginning to prove as positive changes/major breakthroughs, despite whatever difficulties, challenges, heart breaks, or breakdowns we may have had to go through.

Uranus returned to Pisces a final time on August 2010. Then on March 2011, Uranus re-entered Aries to stay for the long haul. From June 19 to July 17 (2011), Uranus and Pluto were tangled up in an alignment once again. This time they were actually within orb of their square (the tighter the orb, the stronger the influence). This short period may have given us a preview of what their alignment might bring our attention to in the next couple of years.

For Gemini-Sagittarius Suns & risings (2010 to 2013); Taurus-Scorpio Suns & risings (2012 to 2015); and Aries-Libra Suns & risings (2013 to 2015), the eclipses in your sign plus the Uranus-Pluto square may feed into each other and add more influence/depth to the already powerful energy of the eclipses in your sign! Don’t panic. Breathe. Find your center and be grounded. See the bigger picture just as equally as the details. Assess. Plan. Act.

What is a a square? A square is the most difficult and challenging relationship between two or more planets. It is an impatient energy that requires action. It is conflict, war between at least two celestial bodies. Its energy forces a need to create something that’s birthed from inside of us and then to manifest that creation out into the world — may it be in your own personal world, your immediate environment, or something that influences many. Sometimes what’s ‘created’ is something you initiated; other times, a situation/s thrown at you and are left with having to manage it. Depending on where the square falls in our birth chart, changes/challenges/conflict may relate to our career (10th house), physical health (6th house), finances (2nd/8th houses), home/family (4th house), relationships (7th house), children (5th house), friendships (11th house), etc.

We’ll be under the umbrella of Uranus square Pluto for much of 2012 to 2015, their square will perfect - twice for each year in 2012, 2013 & 2014, and once in 2015. Here are the periods when Uranus square Pluto energy will be at its strongest:

June 19, 2011 to July 17, 2011 ~ within orb but will not perfect
May 16, 2012 to October 29, 2012 ~ perfect on June 24 (at 8° & 23’) and September 18 (at 6° & 57’) - interesting that these dates fall within days of my birthday (June 27) and my sister’s (Sept 14) … hmm …
April 17, 2013 to June 28, 2013 ~ perfect on May 20 (at 11° & 14’)
September 21, 2013 to December 12, 2013 ~ perfect on November 1 (at 9° & 25’)
March 12, 2014 to May 24, 2014 ~ perfect on April 21 (at 13° & 33’)
November 4, 2014 to April 25, 2015 ~ perfect on December 14, 2014 (at 12° & 35’) and March 16, 2015 (at 15° & 17’)
December 18, 2015 to March 19, 2016 ~ within orb but will not perfect

For me as a Cancer-Sun, the Uranus-Pluto square impacts my solar 10th & 7th houses (career/future goals vs. relationships/partnerships); and as a Virgo-rising, my natal 8th & 5th houses (debt/transformation vs. fun/creative self-expression).

How might this square manifest in your world? Look to the solar and natal houses that are governed by Aries and Capricorn; and/or see if there are any natal planets/house angles that will be triggered by the square (match the degree the squares are perfecting at against your natal chart). That should be a good start at gaining some insight.

Unsure if you have natal planets/house angles on or around any of the above mention degrees within cardinal signs? Cast your own birth chart at alabe.com for use as reference — birth date, time, and place required.

Part of this article was originally posted on my astrogrrl blogger site July 3, 2011.

Hello friends and potential friends :) I am slowly moving my...

Sun, 29 Apr 2012 14:43:00 -0700

Hello friends and potential friends :)

I am slowly moving my astrology blog out of blogger and into tumblr. My blog url remains the same astrogrrl.com, but the look and feel is different.

During the move, apologies to my email subscribers if you received an email over the weekend of new astrology posts. They, in fact, are old rss feeds of previous blog posts on blogger. Last year, I used the tumblr account to auto-post and link to articles written on my blogger account. When I changed rss url on feedburner this weekend, feedburner pulled these old articles into one email that was sent to my email subscribers. I am sorry for any confusion this may have caused.

Hopefully, this is the only hiccup experienced as I get settled into tumblr.

Blessings,
Jan

WHERE WOULD YOU MOST LIKE TO VISIT ON YOUR PLANET?

Fri, 27 Apr 2012 19:10:00 -0700

Andalucia, Spain

(via beachcomberpete)

orysmatik: Vogue Uk Star Signs by Tim Gutt

Sat, 21 Apr 2012 23:22:31 -0700

Libra

Scorpio

Sagittarius

Capricorn

Aquarius

Pisces

orysmatik:

Vogue Uk Star Signs by Tim Gutt

New Moon in Taurus ~ April 21, 2012

Sat, 21 Apr 2012 13:19:00 -0700

Taurus © bezfaery via deviantart

New Moons signify rebirth, beginnings, a clean slate, the start of a new cycle. This new moon highlights Taurus qualities (determined, practical, devoted, grounded, dependable) and 2nd house themes (material security, values, self-worth). On a spiritual/higher plane, the Moon in Taurus seeks inner peace through stability and contentment. Taurus is natively ruled by Venus.

This Taurus-New Moon (blending of heart & soul) is happily aligned to Neptune in Pisces, enhancing sensitivities, spirituality, creativity, and our sense of universal connection. At best, this energy gives strength through faith, insight by going within, and inspired creations. At worst, getting lost in the illusion.

Neptune governs all things unseen, and especially in Pisces, may not fare very well in the tangible world. Taurus, on the other hand, is all about the physical realm. Taurus brings stability, grounding and a sense of reality to the Moon. The merging of inspiration and reality/spirituality and practicality offers a new moon phase full of possibilities that can turn into realities.

The new moon occurs at 2° of Taurus. Those born within 3 days of April 21 or October 25; or have planets/house angles around 2° of fixed signs may feel the effects of this new moon stronger than most.

For me, this New Moon sextiles both my Sun and North Node and as a Virgo-rising, falls in my natal 8th house (endings/debt); as a Cancer-Sun, my solar 11th house (friendships). I will always welcome a renewal in my house of debt :) and of course, I can never have too many friends!

How might this new moon manifest in your world? Look to the natal house this new moon will occupy in your birth chart. Match the sign and degree to the sign on the house cusp. Then, click here to read about the new moon transiting natal houses.

Here are the symbols associated with the zodiac signs.
Aries ♈ • Taurus ♉ • Gemini ♊ • Cancer ♋ • Leo ♌ • Virgo ♍
Libra ♎ • Scorpio ♏ • Sagittarius ♐ • Capricorn ♑ • Aquarius ♒ • Pisces ♓

Unsure if you have natal planets/house angles on or around 2° of fixed signs? Cast your own birth chart at alabe.com for use as reference — birth date, time, and place required.

For those doing the new moon wishes ritual, the moon will be new on April 21st at 12:18 a.m. Pacific / 3:18 a.m. Eastern and will be void of course the following day, April 22nd at 10:10 a.m. Pacific / 1:10 p.m. Eastern. Click here for Jan Spiller’s DailyOm.com article, briefly explaining new moon wishes.

Originally posted on my astrogrrl blogger site on April 20, 2012

The New Moon in Natal Houses

Fri, 20 Apr 2012 13:06:00 -0700

In astrology, the Moon represents our emotional core, inner drives, intuition, home, family, roots, and connection to the past. New Moons signify rebirth, beginnings, a clean slate, the start of a new cycle. Each month’s New Moon falls in one of the twelve houses of the zodiac. The focus of that New Moon may manifest or be felt most in the house that the New Moon falls in.

Check your birth chart to see where the next New Moon will fall on your birth chart (matching the sign and degree).

If you don’t have a birth chart, but know your Rising/Ascendant sign or you may use your Sun sign to match the house the New Moon will occupy (although this method might not be as accurate). For example, if you are a Cancer or Cancer Rising and the New Moon is in Virgo. Begin with Cancer occupying the 1st House then move down the zodiac until you reach Virgo (Cancer-1st House; Leo-2nd House; Virgo-3rd House); the New Moon in Virgo falls in Cancer/Cancer Rising’s 3rd House. Scroll down to the 3rd House to find out the themes of that house and how/where in your life the next New Moon might influence.*

Here are the symbols associated with the zodiac signs:
Aries ♈ • Taurus ♉ • Gemini ♊ • Cancer ♋ • Leo ♌ • Virgo ♍
Libra ♎ • Scorpio ♏ • Sagittarius ♐ • Capricorn ♑ • Aquarius ♒ • Pisces ♓

Alternatively, you may cast your own birth chart by clicking here (opens a new window) for use as reference — birth date, time, and place required.

~ • ~

The New Moon in Natal Houses*
*Does not account for intercepted birth charts or house cusps decanate placements

New Moon in the 1st House
A new moon in the 1st house bestows a renewal within the self. Reinvent yourself. Try new things. Be bolder, more confident. Start new projects. Begin walking, talking, thinking, acting, and being the version of yourself you envision. Go on, try it out; see how it feels.

New Moon in the 2nd House
In the physical realm, the 2nd house represents our material security, possessions, and income. On a slightly higher level, it rules our value system and self-worth. In the spiritual arena, it represents stability, inner peace, and being grounded through our own self-sufficiency.

New Moon in the 3rd House
For those with siblings (biological or otherwise), the new moon might highlight a renewal in relationships and interactions with them. The 3rd house also represents all manners of information gathering, communication, commerce, writing, speaking, thinking, planning, and creation of ideas.

New Moon in the 4th House
In the physical realm, a new moon in the 4th house might involve the family (present or recurring issues) or the home (buying/selling a house, moving, re-financing, re-decorating, remodeling, etc.). On an emotional/personal level, the 4th house represents coming to terms with the past or unresolved family issues.

New Moon in the 5th House
Self-expression, creative projects, love and romance, fun, playfulness, and children are all ruled by the 5th house. Allow this new moon to awaken creativity, spark love, boost confidence, and/or bring simple pleasures back into your life.

New Moon in the 6th House
Health, busy work, service, comfort in routines, and finding order in the details are all ruled by the 6th house. A new moon here encourages lifestyle changes, healthier habits, becoming comfortable with taking on the role of someone who “services” others, or perhaps learning to establish boundaries with those who might take advantage of kind gestures.

New Moon in the 7th House
Partnerships (business or otherwise), marriages, committed relationships, and known enemies are all representatives of the 7th house. Changes to relationships — equality, cooperations, compromises, agreements, how we relate to others, how they relate to us — are issues that might surface during the new moon cycle.

New Moon in the 8th House
The 8th house is multi-faceted and multi-layered. In the physical realm, the 8th house represents sex and shared resources/finances. In the psychological plane, it represents power struggles within our own psychological makeup and our ability to embrace the “darker” version of our self without it overpowering us. On a spiritual level, it represents “death and rebirth”, transformation, regeneration — the need for something to “die” in order for a “rebirth” to occur — as in a caterpillar transforming into a butterfly. A new moon in the 8th house is generally intense and difficult but also powerful.

New Moon in the 9th House
A new moon in the 9th house focuses on personal growth (spiritual or otherwise) through higher education, intellectual curiosities, travel, and cultural experiences. The 9th house also represents publishing.

New Moon in the 10th House
A focus on professional pursuits, long-term goals, establishing public reputations might take center stage with a new moon in this house.

New Moon in the 11th House
New moon in the 11th house might influence your friendships and associations; the way you view the world and its varied societies; or humanity as a whole and your place in it, as well as your joint responsibility to it.

New Moon in the 12th House
The 12th house, like the 8th house, is also multi-faceted and multi-layered. It is the house of the subconscious, solitude, spiritual consciousness, secrets (ours and those kept from us), hidden enemies, and represents institutions like hospitals and prisons. A new moon in the 12th house might require “solitude” in order to “recharge” and sort through issues subconsciously and psychologically. The most effective way to process a transit through this house is surrender … give in to the much needed spiritual healing offered and clarity will follow.

Originally posted on my astrogrrl blogger site on April 22, 2009

The Full Moon in Natal Houses

Fri, 20 Apr 2012 12:25:00 -0700

In astrology, the Moon represents our emotional core, inner drives, intuition, the feminine energy in us, home, family, roots, and connection to the past. Full moons signify the completion, culmination of what was initiated during the previous New Moon. The zodiac sign the full moon occupies show us the themes and focus for the moon’s energies. The house the full moon transits gives us a peek into which aspect of our life the Full Moon’s focus might play out in.

Check your birth chart and scroll down below to see which house the Full Moon will occupy. (Match sign and degree)

If you don’t have a birth chart, but know your Rising/Ascendant sign or you may use your Sun sign to match the house the Full Moon will occupy (although this method might not be as accurate). For example, if you are a Cancer or Cancer Rising and the Full Moon is in Virgo, begin with Cancer occupying the 1st House then move down the zodiac until you reach Virgo (Cancer-1st House; Leo-2nd House; Virgo-3rd House); a Full Moon in Virgo falls in Cancer/Cancer Rising’s 3rd House. Scroll down to the 3rd House to find out the themes of that house and how/where in your life the next Full Moon might influence.*

Alternatively, you may cast your own birth chart (opens a new window) for use as reference — birth date, time, and place required.

~ • ~

The Full Moon in Natal Houses*
*Does not account for intercepted charts or house cusps decanate placements

Full Moon in the First House focuses on the balance between the individual self (where the Full Moon is), and the shared self, (where the Sun is). The past two weeks may have given a focus on “others” or “another”. It’s important not to lose one’s individuality, basic needs, personal goals, and growth within relationships. There is room for the self within any partnership. Assert the self’s need to “be” during this full moon cycle.

Full Moon in the Second House represents the balance between the financial houses (2nd and 8th houses), what I own and what we share, a look at what we value in life as well as how we value the self. Issues regarding one’s income or major purchases that increases the value of the home, i.e. appliances, cosmetic repairs, etc. may be at hand. As full moons bring endings/closures, there may be a change in one’s income or financial status during this full moon cycle.

Full Moon in the Third House encourages the rationalization of our emotions, attaching logic and reason to our feelings, and communicating them — say it, write it, blog it, email it, tweet it. The third house also represents siblings and neighbors. So, find your voice and express yourself!

Full Moon in the Fourth House represents home, family, our roots, inner drives, and connection to our past. A look at our relationships with family (biological or otherwise) is encouraged now. The past two weeks may have been focused on career, professional life, and achieving our goals. Satisfying the basic needs of our private life is the more important thing during this full moon cycle.

Full Moon in the Fifth House is all about fun, love, and children. Seek pleasures. Bring out the fun and forgotten child-like qualities in you. Be around children as a reminder of what it is to have simple fun, simple pleasures. Foster romantic dalliances. Express devotion to your true love. As full moons bring endings/closures, a love affair may end or you may finally let go of that torch you’ve carried for a lost love or an inevitable breakup happens.

Full Moon in the Sixth House encourages a look at our health/habits and seeks to have order and comfort in routines, busy work, servicing those in need. It might be necessary to finish up some open to-do items or resolve long-standing issues. Have you been putting off that visit to the doctor or annual dental check-up? Get it done already!

Full Moon in the Seventh House centers on our partnerships (intimate and/or business). Accommodating/meeting the needs of our significant other or business partner, perhaps even sacrificing the self’s desires, is what’s at the forefront now. It’s time to shift the central focus off the self and onto “others” or “another.” As full moons bring endings/closures, some relationships may end completely, while others may find that ending one/some things brings a renewal to the relationship.

Full Moon in the Eighth House highlights our shared resources and may require letting go of something/someone in order to move on. The past two weeks may have been focused on what I own, my income, my self-worth; this full moon cycle may be about what we share, our joint financial resources, our material worth together. The eighth house also represents sex, death (not necessarily physical but more like endings), and regeneration. Is there something (habits, associations, thoughts/ideas) you need to give up that is holding you back? This full moon cycle is a good time to address that.

Full Moon in the Ninth House stresses our personal growth, philosophy, religion, higher education, publishing, and travel. How does our belief system/religion/philosophy affect our personal and spiritual growth? Do they help expand our horizons or do they narrow our vision and keep us from living inspired lives? As full moons bring endings/closures, maybe it’s time to open up the mind to new experiences that foster growth. Expand mentally to grow exponentially.

Full Moon in the Tenth House focuses on career/professional pursuits and long term goals. How committed our we to achieving our goals or gaining the professional respect/reputation necessary to be a success in our profession and with our colleagues? As full moons bring endings/closures, there may be issues/events that have lingered far too long and are now finding resolutions for.

Full Moon in the Eleventh House celebrates our friendships, associations, and our individual place within the society/world we live in. This full moon cycle is ideal for networking, active participation in social settings, pursuing civic-minded activities, etc. Make connections; meet like-minded people; surround yourself with others sharing similar goals. As full moons bring endings/closures, there may be some ties that will be cut during this full moon cycle.

Full Moon in the Twelfth House emphasizes our need for solitude to recharge, decompress, and rest. The full moon cycle may be a time for aloneness, to reconnect with our subconscious drives, psychological self, and shed light on the deepest parts of us. Escape into our selves, uncover what has been hidden, and unravel the mystery that is the self.

Originally posted on my astrogrrl blogger site, April 9, 2009

Saturn Return There are planetary cycles we all share which...

Fri, 20 Apr 2012 11:51:00 -0700

Saturn Return

There are planetary cycles we all share which mark certain milestones in our personal lives. When transiting planets make connections to our birth chart, something is stirred. The intensity and depth depend upon the nature of the connections and the planets involved. One planetary cycle triggering major life changes is our Saturn Return.

In a previous post on Saturn in Libra, I described Saturn as:
the taskmaster of the zodiac whose karmic lessons, once learned, remain with each of us throughout our lives. He represents reality, challenges, structure, foundation, obstacles, hard work, obligations, restrictions, and limitations. He is cold, distant, stoic, determined, persistent … all business. Saturn’s function, as he transits through signs and touch sensitive points and natal planets in our birth charts, is to teach us our life lessons and reward us, as we learn our lessons.

Saturn Return occurs approximately every 29 years. The first Saturn Return marks the beginning of our second life cycle. This typically occurs between ages 28-30 and ushers us into adulthood by requiring us to commit to something and work our butts off to make it a reality. We are asked to do something, create something; make what we dream about, a reality. Be a responsible adult. Some people get married, get divorced, end a long-term relationship, have children, go back to finish their undergraduate degrees, establish their own business, switch careers, relocate, etc. If you’ve gone through your first return, do you remember the events and issues faced during that time? Decisions made and actions taken during the first Saturn Return help determine the ease or difficulty of the second Saturn Return.

The second Saturn Return triggers the start of our third life cycle. This return occurs at approximately 58-60 years of age and reflects the transition from maturity to wisdom. It’s time to restructure life once again. This time, we are asked to determine what kind of legacy we want to leave. As we look back and take stock at the life we’ve led so far, what kinds of decisions did we make between ages 30-58? Those who have put things off or avoided dealing with things may find themselves facing the same or similar issues they were faced with during their first return. Have we continually grown on a personal level? What kind of older person will we be? An elder who’s respected and whose advice is sought after or the opposite? Our needs have changed, along with our goals. How do we plan to live the next half of our life?

If we live long enough, the third Saturn Return happens at around ages 87-89 and begins our fourth life cycle. By 87, we would have lived a life full of happiness, disappointments, achievements and failures. Managing health issues may also be a factor now and the humbling reality/acceptance that we may need help doing the simplest things — bathing, changing, eating. I’m not really sure what a third Saturn Return would represent. I have not had the pleasure of giving a third Saturn Return reading. Perhaps this is a time when we detach ourselves from the material attachments of this life, the identity that the self has attached itself with, and prepare ourselves for what comes next — a transition from this life into the next realm/next life.

I welcome comments on what your thoughts might be for the third Saturn Return or any of the returns.

Those currently going through their Saturn Return (born between 1982 & 1984; 1952 & 1954 and 1923 & 1925) have the extra tension brought on by the Saturn-Pluto square (2009-2010), the Saturn-Uranus opposition (2008-2010) and the Cardinal T-Square that links all three of these heavy players this year. Ouch.

~ Article originally posted on my astrogrrl blogger site March 6, 2010.

Solar Return

Thu, 19 Apr 2012 14:06:00 -0700

Every year the Sun returns to the same degree it was in at the moment of our birth, our astrological birthday, and triggers our personal (birthday) year. This chart is called a Solar Return, and one’s return can occur within 1 or 2 days from the actual birthday. To cast a return chart, the location (city and state for U.S. or city and country) where the individual will be during his/her birthday is required.

The Sun is the source of all energy and is life-giving. In astrology, the Sun represents the self we present to the external world, our vital life force, potential, ambitions, intentions, and unrealized/untapped inherent talents/skills. It is our conscious will, our volition that holds our soul’s purpose in this life. The Sun is our soul; the Moon is our heart; and the Ascendant or Rising is the ‘mask’ that the Sun wears.

The Solar Return chart is a powerful, insightful tool to help forecast what might be coming up, as well as ‘when’, from one birthday to the next. In a solar return reading, the return chart is also compared to the natal chart to add depth and context to the energies revealed in the solar return chart.

For instance, if in the return chart, the Midheaven is stimulated, the individual may change careers or establish a new set of future goals or maybe move to a new city. Upon comparison of the return chart with the natal chart, it might show the individual’s natural reaction/s to change and whether this is a help or an extra challenge for them for what’s to come. It might further show what type of vocation might satisfy the individual’s drive or soul; or whether the individual has natural gifts that’s yet to be discovered and can now begin to be developed.

Forecasting also provides time period/s or specific dates that might be of interest — extra challenges, a smoother run, possible opportunistic times, etc. This is a simplistic depiction of what a Solar Return reading is like. But as in life, there are layers and overlaps, and these are also revealed in the Solar Return chart, especially when superimposed over the Natal Chart. So, why not consider getting yourself a Solar Return reading on your next birthday? :)

Originally posted on my astrology blogger account, May 10, 2010.

New Moon in Leo ~ July 30, 2011

Mon, 25 Jul 2011 05:40:54 -0700

New Moon in Leo ~ July 30, 2011:

Hideaway. Illustration credit & © Inga Nielsen via APOD.

The month of July began with a new moon; and now, as we close out the month, we herald a second July new moon. On July…

Mercury in Virgo ~ July 28 to August 8, 2011

Sun, 24 Jul 2011 08:56:10 -0700

Mercury in Virgo ~ July 28 to August 8, 2011:

Grand Central Terminal. Hercules (left), Mercury (center), and Minerva (right) via Wikipedia

Mercury zips through Leo and enters his home sign, Virgo. In the analytical and…

Venus in Leo ~ July 28 to August 21, 2011

Sat, 23 Jul 2011 12:10:18 -0700

Venus in Leo ~ July 28 to August 21, 2011:

Original image source unknown.

Venus leaves the gentle, nurturing sign of Cancer for fun-loving, dramatic Leo. Venus represents love, how we relate to others, how we want others to…