In astrology, our North Node reveals the teachings we need to embrace for emotional evolution. With the collective North Node now shifting from Leo to Cancer, Rebecca Farrar says the time is ripe for going back to soul school …
Photo: Matheus Ferrero
After a year and a half with the North Node in shiny, self-expressed Leo, it moves into emotionally motivated Cancer on November 6, 2018, where it will stay until May 5, 2020.
The Lunar Nodes are astronomical points where the Moon’s orbit intersects the Earth’s path around the Sun. They represent fundamental ideas of where we have been and where we are headed in our collective evolution.
This North Node’s sign change into Cancer implies a shared shift towards learning lessons in empathy and emotional intelligence. Our collective homework over the next 1.5 years includes fostering feelings and naming needs.
Opposite Cancer on the zodiacal axis, the Capricorn South Node indicates our communal comfort zone of rules, regulations, and structures (a few of patriarchy’s favorite things). While both Cancer and Capricorn crave a sense of security and stability, they seek these in different ways. Cancer wants to nurture self or others as a way of establishing value, while Capricorn prefers self-containment or boundaries to maintain control.
Core themes for integration during this nodal axis shift are healthy boundaries, balancing internal self-care and self-parenting, and learning to express emotions in a healthy way.
If your North Node is in Cancer, you’ll have your Nodal Return, which occurs about every 18.5 years. But even if your North Node isn’t in Cancer, think back 18-19 years ago for insight into the coming phase.
PLUS read on for a guide to your own personal North Node …
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In the natal chart, the North Node is our “major” at Earth University. It’s what we came here to study intensely, while the South Node is where we have already had a crash course. For us to truly live a fulfilled existence, we need to intentionally move towards our North Node.
Calculate your natal North Node HERE and discover your soul’s lessons below. *Note, your “South Node” is automatically in the sign opposite the North, so you don’t need to calculate it.
ARIES NORTH NODE // LIBRA SOUTH NODE Focus learning on how to become more independent and self-reliant. Move away from codependent patterning, or relying heavily on others for satisfaction or approval.
TAURUS NORTH NODE // SCORPIO SOUTH NODE Major evolution happens by focusing more time on your self-worth, and your desires for pleasure and connection. Focus less on inappropriate intensity or spending too much time in crisis mode.
GEMINI NORTH NODE // SAGITTARIUS SOUTH NODE Seek wisdom in situations where you get to see both sides or get to flex your curiosity muscle. Avoid places that activate self-righteousness or big picture thinking without openness to new ideas.
CANCER NORTH NODE // CAPRICORN SOUTH NODE Your soul curriculum centers on your emotional field and home life. Focus as much as possible on giving up patterns of stoicism or overworking (especially during this next year and a half phase of your nodal return).
LEO NORTH NODE // AQUARIUS SOUTH NODE Embrace your individuality and the part of you that wants to take center stage, while leaning away from always focusing on your place in a community or waiting for others before doing what you want.
VIRGO NORTH NODE // PISCES SOUTH NODE Life learning emphasizes day-to-day acts and routines, and bringing order to chaos. Rely less on tendencies towards confusion or escapism as a way of disassociating.
LIBRA NORTH NODE // ARIES SOUTH NODE Cultivate cooperation and partnerships that harmonize justice and fairness. Leave behind inclinations of impulsiveness or self-centeredness that focus too much on individual identity.
SCORPIO NORTH NODE // TAURUS SOUTH NODE Study shadow work and practice vulnerability in order to encounter your power, while becoming less attached to material items and the status quo.
SAGITTARIUS NORTH NODE // GEMINI SOUTH NODE Investigate your sense of adventure and discover more ways to trust yourself through traveling or direct communication. Become less dependent on seeking more information or having to always say the right thing.
CAPRICORN NORTH NODE // CANCER SOUTH NODE Teachings take the form of self-respect and self-care that allows you to claim your authority. Release obsessing over the past, or becoming dependent on others.
AQUARIUS NORTH NODE // LEO SOUTH NODE Education occurs through actively participating in groups and community. Spend less effort on wanting approval or having melodramatic tendencies tied to an overemphasis on your own needs.
PISCES NORTH NODE // VIRGO SOUTH NODE Keep reviewing practices that connect you to your spiritual self. Allow for compassion and surrender to a higher power without analyzing or worrying about doing something incorrectly.
With Pluto stationing direct on September 30th, it’s time to meet your shadow self—and you can use your birth chart to come face-to-face with the skeletons in your own closet, say Ruby Warrington and Bess Matassa …
Ruler of Scorpio, the planet Pluto urges us to dive deep into the more Numinous realms of being—which can feel downright scary, depending on how comfortable we are with our more primal urges and shadowy desires.
Pluto governs the parts of ourselves we tend to keep buried under layers of social conditioning, but which are aching to be witnessed in all their gory glory.
But there’s no need to be afraid of these less fragrant parts of ourselves. And in fact, the more time we can spend acknowledging, loving, and socializing them, the less likely they are to leap out of the shadows and bite somebody’s head off. And our birth charts are a great place to begin.
There are several key placements in each and every chart that give clues to the more shadowy parts of our beings, giving us the opportunity to unlock our own secret basement rooms and hidden passages. Read on for 7 ways to use your birth chart to go behind the veil …
*If you don’t have your birth chart, you can do yours for free HERE.
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The 7th House: Hello, shadow self Known as the house of relationships and sitting opposite the 1st House of self and personal expression, the 7th House can also represent the parts of our nature where we’re in denial. Planets here can show aspects of ourselves that we’d rather not “see,” and which we project onto our life partners (in marriage, friendship, and business) instead. We may also seek relationships with people who embody these traits in order to “complete” us. For example, Mars in the 7th House could represent suppressed or unacknowledged anger, meaning we seek partners who either express their anger easily—or know how to push the right buttons to help us to express ours!
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The 8th House: How we dance with our demons Ruled by Scorpio herself, the wicked witch of the zodiac, the 8th House is where we walk the tightrope between the two worlds. In our earthly lives, planets in the 8th House can show how we access our psychic powers (for example, the Moon here suggests strong gut feelings, while an 8th House Mercury may mean we actually “hear” voices from the other side). The sign ruling the 8th House meanwhile (look for the sign it intersects at the bottom), shows our relationship to our shadow self. For example, Leo ruling the 8th House has no problem expressing its demons—while Cancer here may need to find a safe place to let it all hang out.
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The 12th House: Let go and let God Representing the most profound depths of the chart, this house is often described in vague terms such as “the house of self-undoing,” or “secret enemies,” and you can think of this zone as the underground cellar of your chart. Any planets living down there are sometimes kept under lock and key—while they may rise up and “possess” you from time to time. For example, Pluto or Mars here can lead to repressed anger and control impulses that suddenly break out of the cellar and threaten to smash all the china. Meanwhile, Venus here marks an invitation to notice where you deny yourself pleasure. If you’re a 12 house astro babe, your work is to embrace whatever planets hang in this basement, and invite them into the main house for a midnight snack.
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Neptune: Your inner spiritual guru Neptune is the planet ruling mystical Pisces, representing our spirituality and our connection to the higher realms of existence. The sign and house containing Neptune in our birth charts shows how and in what areas of life we experience this connection most strongly, and also where we may seek to “merge” with the Universal oneness—or lose our sense of “self.” The biggest emo of the zodiac, Neptune also shows our sensitivity, and where we may try to escape from the “real” world in search of something altogether softer and more forgiving. Any kind of mystical or dreamlike experience, from being guided into a Shamanic trance, to losing ourselves in music at a concert, will have Neptune at its helm.
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South Node: Your soul’s old clothing Have you ever slipped into some threads that feel oh so comfortable but just a little bit stretched out? Think of your South Node placement as your house clothes. Whatever sign and house its in represents an old way of being from another lifetime. This time around, channel your North Node placement for a soul upgrade. The North Node may feel itchy and challenging and take some breaking in. At first, you may not even recognize yourself when you embrace this behavioral pattern. But you’ve got to risk slipping into this new party frock and and heading out on the town to really fulfill your mission.
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Chiron: Your secret superpower Often called the “wounded healer,” you can think about this placement in your chart as a deeply painful spot that needs you to apply the energy of allowing. Dress that wound, love up on it, and let it break you open towards the human experience of tenderized acceptance. Along with Saturn, Chiron is all about something we think we never received and/or don’t deserve. By element it shows us what we perceive as our weakness (ex/Chiron in Earth, connection to the pragmatic, material realm; Chiron in water, fears around surrendering to our emotional tides). But unlike Saturn’s hard work energy, which compels us to apply effort to overcome this placement, Chiron doesn’t respond to “work.” Instead, we must move alongside and with this energy, and use it as a gateway to connecting with others. Sweetly attending to this touchy-feely place lets us tap into our empathetic superpowers.
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Pluto: Where you glow in the dark This planet of hardcore soul collisions and amped-up intensity, which rules the badass energy of Scorpio, shows us where we can practice grip and release. It gives the house it inhabits a glow-in-the-dark kind of light, where we illuminate our life and death battles, and what we’re willing to protect at all costs. Its gift is to reveal to us where we’re most carnal, and to help us mine this intensity for juicy gemstones. Can we learn to live with what lives inside of us, even the inkiest dark matter we’d rather discard? Harness this energy to fight for exactly what you desire, while noticing when your primal beasties can be slightly softened.
In astrology, our Lilith sign connects us deeply to our primal instincts and natural impulses. As she travels through revolutionary Aquarius until 2019, Rebecca Farrar reveals how to use your Lilith sign to awaken your inner wildness …
Photo: Maxine Caron
Both revered and feared, the goddess Lilith has long been associated with the more shadowy aspects of spirituality. Stemming from the Hebrew word laylah, meaning “night,” her symbols include creepy crawlers such as serpents and the screeching owl, as well as the dark/crescent moon.
The first wife of Adam, Lilith refused to submit to his sexual domination and fled Eden to mate with the Angel of Death, giving birth to hundreds of demon babies per day. After realizing his mistake (how could he not miss a woman like that!), Adam asked God to bring Lilith back—but she refused. And God created docile Eve as his new mate.
While Eve represents the patriarchal, acceptable version of womanhood, closely associated with Venus, Lilith represents the primal, instinctual feminine that puts her needs first and seeks approval from no-one. A feminine that is rising in 2018, and which we each embody—irrespective of biology, gender expression, or sexual preferences. In astrology, it’s little surprise that Lilith in Capricorn from November 2017 through August 2018 (the sign ruling the patriarchy), has been the backdrop to the #metoo movement.
There are four astrological points representing different aspects of Lilith’s dual role as both devouring mother and enlightened goddess. But the most talked about is Dark Moon Lilith—an alignment position rather than a physical planet, indicating the point in the Moon’s orbit farthest from Earth.
Last month Lilith moved into Aquarius, where it will remain until May 2019, awakening consciousness around Lilith’s unpredictable and earthly instincts, and pioneering a new vision of empowered femininity. Currently, Lilith squares Uranus in Taurus and is in exact conjunction with the South Node, calling on us to birth something radically new as a collective.
On a personal level, our Lilith sign and house placement shows us how we can uncover a deeper connection with our own primal instincts. To find Lilith in your chart click HERE, enter your birth information, choose “Extended Chart Selection,” scroll down to “Additional Objects,” and select “Lilith.” *Make sure to read for both your Lilith sign AND the house that holds Lilith in your chart.
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LILITH IN ARIES // LILITH IN THE 1st HOUSE With this placement, Lilith craves expression that matches a strong identity, and is asked to explore how personal passion fuels instinct. Journal Prompt: How does my sexuality inform an aspect of how I or others see me? In what situations do I use my intuitive gut-instincts and where am I afraid to?
LILITH IN TAURUS // LILITH IN THE 2nd HOUSE Related to self-worth and values, with this placement Lilith wants to own her power without relying on others. Cultivating magnetism beyond seduction and in service of love itself may be a part of your Lilith mission. Journal Prompt: What skills of sustainability or survival do I practice? How can I cultivate more of my own self-acceptance (who cares what God or Adam thinks)?
LILITH IN GEMINI // LILITH IN THE 3rd HOUSE Here, Lilith wants to create a healthy dynamic with receiving and giving information, and its important to learn to own wisdom for yourself. Journal Prompt: Where can I open up my sense of wonder about myself and the world around me? Am I afraid that learning new things from people means they are dominating me in some way?
LILITH IN CANCER // LILITH IN THE 4th HOUSE Emotions or home life may be where Lilith in Cancer reveals her raw side the most (though 100 babies a day may be out of the question). The relationship to the family may also be a catalyst for expressing and harnessing the goddess’ power. Journal Prompt: Am I willing to express my feelings to the fullest extent or do I keep them quieted down? How can my emotions offer a gateway into my connection with the natural world?
LILITH IN LEO // LILITH IN THE 5th house With this placement, Lilith may manifest through more private sexual and creative acts of self-expression. Take pride in the many ways artistic potential moves through you. Journal Prompt: Do I hide my creativity or art for fear of rejection or isolation? Can I integrate Lilith through story, visual art, another form of expression?
LILITH IN VIRGO // LILITH IN THE 6th house With this placement there can be a sense of duty or responsibility that takes over Lilith’s needs. Pay attention to when you may be afraid to leave “Eden” because of an agreement. Journal Prompt: How can I become less rigid of my day-to-day routines and allow more creative chaos? Do I feel tied to what I should do rather than doing what is best for me?
LILITH IN LIBRA // LILITH IN THE 7th HOUSE There can be a tendency to project Lilith qualities onto others with this placement, and it’s important to reclaim her within so that she doesn’t show up through external domination. Journal Prompt: How can I own more qualities of Lilith for myself? If I’m befriending or connecting with people who hold this energy, how can I reclaim it for myself?
LILITH IN SCORPIO // LILITH IN THE 8th HOUSE Here, Lilith becomes a powerhouse for personal transformation and awakens depth through intimacy (though it may be necessary to have sex with the Angel of Death to do so!) Journal Prompt: Do I hide my desire for power and domination? How can I honor Lilith’s wildness and primal power as a part of my internal process?
LILITH IN SAGITTARIUS // LILITH IN THE 9th HOUSE Aspects of Lilith may consciously or unconsciously be a guiding force for ideals or religion. Here, Lilith leads with the heart and seeks truth. Above all else, utilize this placement to be guided by instinctive wisdom. Journal Prompt: What is my relationship to religion and to the feminine in my spiritual seeking? Is my instinctive self expressed in my spiritual practices?
LILITH IN CAPRICORN // LILITH IN THE 10th HOUSE With this placement, Lilith may be reflected in how you’re seen publicly but not how you feel internally. Claim your natural self-authority and allow it to inform your own version of feminine legacy (who knows, maybe you too can have four astrological points named after you?) Journal Prompt: Can I use Lilith’s power in my career or work? Do I take responsibility for themes of authority, or fear them?
LILITH IN AQUARIUS // LILITH IN THE 11th HOUSE As Lilith nears your natal placement, you may feel called to bring more of Lilith into modern consciousness. Your ability to tap into the collective means you are able to help create a future vision of how this goddess serves the whole. Journal Prompt: Is my community full of Liliths or wild feminine figures? Or do I play that role of going against the grain in groups?
LILITH IN PISCES // LILITH IN THE 12th HOUSE In the placement of spirituality and unity, Lilith craves connection to the whole. Gifts of this Lilith position include opening up to visionary abilities and intuition. Journal Prompt: Do I fear Lilith and my own unpredictable nature? Can I integrate more of Lilith through connecting with the spiritual dimension of nature?
Your Saturn sign and house placement shows where you have the biggest growth opportunities—and the rewards that await when you commit to doing your work. Read our total guide to your Saturn sign by Ruby Warrington and Bess Matassa …
Photo: Alora Griffiths
Through ice and wind and rain and worse, Saturn keeps on climbing. With structure and discipline, the zodiac’s high-achiever keeps focussed on the hard candy rewards that exist inside of difficulty, and the 24-karat diamonds that are ours to mine when we commit to doing the work that only we can do.
In our charts, our Saturn sign and / or house placement is a tender spot. Our Saturn sign reveals what we think we can’t, or won’t ever, get, and so we often turn away from it. We construct elaborate defenses, approaching a karmic journey of reckoning that asks for both our softness and our strength, with fear. But when we face—and embrace—our Saturn sign, we see that putting in the work to overcome this fear is ultimately in service of what we’re here to bring forward.
Our infamous Saturn Return, which happens once just before the age of 30 and a second time around 60 marks a concentrated moment for this labor of love. But our work with our Saturn sign truly lasts a lifetime. Our Saturn sign asks us to grow up, step up, and take responsibility for the work we have to do in this life; it invites us into the noble act of self-sacrifice; and it holds the key to our most lasting, and impactful achievements in both the personal and the public realms.
Think of Saturn as your personal trainer, pushing you to the limits of what you think you can take because it can envision the muscle that already exists beneath your skin. And also because you “paid” it to in a past life! Saturn also rules karmic justice, and the grueling routine it’s got you sweating through now is in service of putting right past wrongs.
With Saturn traveling through its native turf, Capricorn, from Dec 2017 through March 2020, the groundwork is being laid for us all to commit to a new course of astro action. Use the guide to each Saturn Sign below to help you navigate your lessons with both grit and grace.
Click HERE to do your chart for free and discover your Saturn sign—and read for both your Saturn sign AND the House that holds Saturn in your chart. ***Pro-tip: Scroll to the bottom for how Saturn’s 2018—2020 transit through Capricorn is impacting your Sun and Rising sign.
Want to learn how to read your own chart? One of Ruby’s astro mentors, Rebecca Gordon, is currently enrolling students for her 10-week Beginners Astrology Course. Sign-up is open through September 25 2018—click HERE for details and use the code “STAR” to get 20% off tuition!
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SATURN IN ARIES // SATURN IN THE 1st HOUSE Saturn Sign assignment: Leadership This Saturn sign and / or placement is born to lead, but can burn out hard and fast when it doesn’t work to a structured plan. Aries impulsiveness often prefers to forego planning and teamwork, placing the emphasis on reaching the finish line fastest and, most importantly, FIRST, when the real rewards are in the experience gained along the way. Leaning into leadership means less competition and more collaboration; less “me first” and more “we win!”
SATURN IN TAURUS // SATURN IN THE 2nd HOUSE Saturn Sign assignment: Receiving This Saturn sign and / or placement asks you to summon the courage to truly taste, touch, and enjoy it all. What feels uncomfortable about laying back in a bed of roses to receive the treats you deserve? Where do you short circuit opportunities to truly claim your sense of self-worth? Start by feeling into your body’s beauty and impulses, and reach for what you crave without judgement. This placement is all about banishing scarcity mentality, and believing in the endless feast, and your rightful place at the table.
SATURN IN GEMINI // SATURN IN THE 3rd HOUSE Saturn Sign assignment: Expression This Saturn sign and / or placement has the potential to move worlds with its words, if it can only learn to trust that they won’t be manipulated and used against you. Speaking up can feel frightening, especially when it comes to expressing your most personal opinions and views—perhaps because a mean sibling or childhood frenemy used to tease or make fun of you. This Saturn sign asks you to push past irrational “monkey-mind” fears and open up. Practice with trusted companions who make you feel understood, then bring your words to the wider world.
SATURN IN CANCER // SATURN IN THE 4th HOUSE Saturn Sign assignment: Feelings With this Saturn sign and / or placement, issues of emotional security, shelter, and a sense of belonging come to the fore. How can you create a safe container to feel every last feel, without turning away from your tenderness? And how can you validate your own emotional experiences regardless of outside feedback? This placement asks you to become a hermit crab, carrying your home on your back and learning to hunker down with your own intuitive hits, no matter the storms.
SATURN IN LEO // SATURN IN THE 5th HOUSE Saturn Sign assignment: Ego This Saturn sign and / or placement desires nothing more than to bask in the full beam of the spotlight, if it could only get over its fear of being seen. Do they really love me? Is the constant question circling, as a backdrop to the eternal creative drive of this Saturn. Your capacity for creative self-expression is second-to-none, as you strive to make your mark on the world in ways that are as entertaining and playful as they are meaningful. Learning to create for yourself first and foremost, the critics be damned, is your key to mastery.
SATURN IN VIRGO // SATURN IN THE 6th HOUSE Saturn Sign assignment: Critique Beyond this Saturn sign and / or placement’s bouts of endless tweaking, analyzing, and refining, lies the potential to learn how to match the moment with the resources on hand, and relax into trusting your cycles. Whenever you feel yourself getting stuck in a staticky buzz of not-good-enoughs, step outside into the natural world. The plants and animals don’t editorialize on their own processes. They simply bloom and shed when the moment is right. Releasing into your own internal sense of right timing is your greatest lesson.
SATURN IN LIBRA // SATURN IN THE 7th HOUSE Saturn Sign assignment: Relationship This Saturn sign and / or placement has some hardcore #relationshipgoals and yearns for partnerships that reflect its highest ideals. And then there is life in the real world, where people are not always the people we’d like them to be, and there are as many “let-downs” as there are love-ins. The work here is to learn to accept others as they are, and in doing so learn to love the parts of yourself that for whatever reason you may not be so willing to accept. Practice seeing others as a mirror, and when partnerships prove problematic, make it less about them and more about a lesson in give and take.
SCORPIO // SATURN IN THE 8th HOUSE Saturn Sign assignment: Intimacy This Saturn sign and / or placement beckons you into your own personal jungle, asking where you turn away from the darker shades of experience, and from your own desire nature. There’s a soul deep need here for radical acts of rawness, realness, and intimacy, coupled with feelings of fear that if you risk these kinds of carnal collisions, you’ll be stripped of your power and left with nothing. But Saturn in Scorpio asks you to brave sharing more of your vulnerability at all costs, and to let these gambles remind you that your unshakable core can never be stolen.
SATURN IN SAGITTARIUS // SATURN IN THE 9th HOUSE Saturn Sign assignment: Freedom This Saturn sign and / or placement cannot stand to feel contained, and is called to cultivate a feeling of freedom in even the most staid scenarios. Sagittarius rules higher learning, and embarking on epic journeys of the mind can be one way to feed your wanderlust when your day-to-day feels uninspiringly small. A fear of being trapped can lead to irresponsible risk-taking, and a restlessness that leaves little room for leaving a lasting impact. Feed your wild ponies with nuggets of knowledge while you recommit, again and again, to hiking the mountain trail less travelled.
SATURN IN CAPRICORN // SATURN IN THE 10th HOUSE Saturn Sign assignment: Structure In its native sign, Saturn sets out with a steely reserve, ready to flex its muscles and climb towards the skyscraper heights. And if you’ve got Saturn in Cap, by all means, embrace the ice rain challenges and boardroom dreams. But beneath it all, this placement is also about understanding the difference between status-quo ambition and soul goals. Settle into the structures that help you craft your most passionate visions, while making sure you embrace enough flow to truly celebrate the treats at the top of the mountain.
SATURN IN AQUARIUS // SATURN IN THE 11th HOUSE Saturn Sign assignment: Connection This Saturn sign and / or placement understands on a cosmic level that we are all connected, yet can find it hard to translate this when it comes to flesh, blood, and feelings. You crave community, and yet issues with trust and always feeling like an “outsider” can prevent you from finding that village-like vibe. Seeking out groups who are connected by a common cause can be a way to meet like-minded individuals, all working to patchwork together a vision for society that makes space for everybody. Honoring your individual quirks as part of what makes you lovable is the inner work to focus on.
PISCES // SATURN IN THE 12th HOUSE Saturn Sign assignment: Boundaries Saturn in Pisces is like a well-worn seawall, attempting to create a container for its infinite swirls of emotion. And there are deep wells of feeling with this placement that can trigger fears about “losing” it in an Alice-In-Wonderland flood of tears. Yet your greatest gifts is your ability to sit with the fullest range of collective feeling, embracing every shade of sadness and joy with equal empathy. Feel into your intuitive “yes” and “nos,” and be ready to both build and tear down boundaries to meet each moment.
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SATURN IN CAPRICORN BOOT-CAMP // Dec 2017—March 2020
ARIES // ARIES RISING Saturn is currently moving through your 10th house of career and achievement. You’re being asked to think more like a boss and create a structure for your biggest ambitions.
TAURUS // TAURUS RISING As it moves through your 9th house of adventure and learning, Saturn is guiding you to deepen your understanding of the world so you can contribute something more meaningful.
GEMINI // GEMINI RISING Saturn in your 8th house of trust and intimacy is urging you to get okay with getting vulnerable, as you connect to your true desires and ask for them to be met.
CANCER // CANCER RISING This transit sees Saturn moving through your 7th house of relationships, as you’re asked to get serious about who you choose to nurture and share your world with. No more “takers” allowed.
LEO // LEO RISING Saturn is making its way through your 6th house of work and service, demanding that you put the absolute most into your day-to-day and cultivate healthy habits to keep you on track.
VIRGO // VIRGO RISING With Saturn transiting your 5th house of creative self-expression, now is the time to turn your passion project into a bona-fide business that can also pay your bills.
LIBRA // LIBRA RISING As Saturn moves through your 4th house of feelings, home, and security, your work is around creating a sense of personal safety—no matter how “scary” things seem in the outside world.
SCORPIO // SCORPIO RISING Saturn transiting your 3rd house of communication and ideas wants you to consider the impact of your words on the wider world, and adjust your message to match your impact.
SAGITTARIUS // SAGITTARIUS RISING This Saturn transit accents your materially-minded 2nd house. It’s time to get paid for the gifts you embody so effortlessly, it’s hard to believe you can charge for them.
CAPRICORN // CAPRICORN RISING With Saturn moving through your 1st house of self, this transit could feel like an extra Saturn return! Your work is to accept your lessons, and step gracefully into your next evolution.
AQUARIUS // AQUARIUS RISING Saturn in your 12th house of healing brings closure to a painful cycle. Commit to feeling it all and trust that confronting it fully is how you can finally move on.
PISCES // PISCES RISING Now is the time to work on building your community, as Saturn transits your 11th house of groups and team endeavors. Hold a high vision for what you can build together.
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Want to learn how to read your own chart? One of Ruby’s astro mentors, Rebecca Gordon, is currently enrolling students for her 10-week Beginners Astrology Course. Sign-up is open through September 26 2018—click HERE for details and use the code “STAR” to get 20% off tuition!
As the heat of Leo Season urges us to sparkle and shine, the myth of the Goddess Diana shows how to stoke the flames of our wildness, says Rebecca Farrar …
Photo: Kyle Loftus
As one of the few virgin goddesses, Diana represents being whole unto oneself, and her myth honors this wild and free part of our nature.
According to legend, she begs her father, Jupiter, to liberate her from marriage and motherhood so that she can roam free with her friends, the Nymphs and hunting dogs.
Diana’s name comes from the Proto-Indo-European meaning “to shine,” and derives from the same Latin root meaning ”daylight.” In Ancient Rome, she was celebrated with August’s festival Nemoralia, or Festival of the Torches. During the weeklong tradition, hunting was forbidden and dogs were instead decorated with flowers. Her followers carried torches to Lake Nemi, outside of Rome, and left offerings of fruit in the forest.
While she is often thought of as a Moon goddess, she is also an active, protective force of the forest, known as the Goddess of the Hunt. Diana’s independence and caring instincts create a beautiful balance between lunar and solar energies—something we can all model as we seek to integrate the masculine and feminine energies within ourselves, creating a more equitable world.
Diana links us to sisterly love, feminism, and action heroines. Her archetype is reflected in our own psyches as WILDNESS in its purest form, and our connection to creatures and nature alike …
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The asteroid Diana, discovered in 1863 by a German astronomer, currently sits at 20 degrees Aries, near Eris, the sister outsider. Together, these two asteroids in such a strong fire sign uplift and empower feminine energies.
Diana’s placement in our birth chart points to where we crave freedom and yearn to be barefoot running through the forest with our animal companions. It may also reveal where we are constantly on the “hunt” for something.
**To find Diana in your chart, go to astro.com, enter your birth information, choose “Extended Chart Selection,” scroll down to “Additional Objects,” and type in 78.
Use the suggestions below to come more into contact with the many facets of Diana and her wild nature:
1st house // This placement suggests an identity empowered by the Diana’s protector and warrior. Try archery or another form of outdoor solo sport to awaken this natural protector energy.
2nd house// Diana had a deep love for nature and the Earth. Foraging for food or forest bathing would be fun hobbies to build a relationship with this archetype.
3rd house// Athena was known for her intellect, but Diana was in constant communication with her companions. Study bird communication, bird watching, or read about animal behavior.
4th house// Diana was well-known for being a protector of women and children. In this placement she is deeply intimate with the lunar and menstrual cycles. Pay attention to the Moon’s cycles and spend time at night outside, soaking up its light. (**Side-note: Ruby has her Diana here, so makes total sense she set up Moon Club!)
5th house// During Diana’s weeklong celebration, creating fire and more sources of light was an important element. Talents such as starting a fire or wood splitting are necessary wild skills to explore with a 5th house Diana.
6thhouse// Running around in the forest, it was important for Diana to know which plants did what. This location in the chart implies botany and plant identification as a way to honor the goddess.
7th house// Diana had lovers, both male and female, though wasn’t in a committed partnership, as her energy was instead more focused on appreciating nature. Experiment with art using sticks, pine needles, or tree bark for a woodsy aesthetic.
8th house// Spending most of her time outside, Diana was also deeply attuned to nature’s death and life cycles. With fall on the horizon, learn more about how different trees stay alive in winter and make it a point to notice the change in seasons. You may also want to study more about the many esoteric traditions that honor the Tree of Life.
9th house// The exploratory and adventurous side of Diana meant she was constantly on the move. Stray from the familiar forest trail and discover new ground, whether it be a new hiking area, tree climbing, or a forest on another side of the world.
10th house// With this placement, Diana strives to be sensible and to own her authority. She craves solitude and self-reliance. Take classes on wilderness survival or utilize the forest’s gifts for your quiet contemplation.
11th house// An 11th house Diana exemplifies her need for freedom and liberation from traditional roles. Focus on cultivating community with other wild souls who crave time in nature, such as communal hiking or camping.
12th house// Nature may evoke a mystical or flow state experience in this house. Imagination, such as photography or film, may be a gift, or even taking time to meditate under a tree.
Photo: Ben Waardenburg
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And no matter where the asteroid is in your chart, harness your own wild and free spirit with the suggestions below … especially potent during her festival from August 13-17th!
// Food // Easily foraged foods such as mushrooms or berries, or seasonal fruits and vegetables.
// Workout // A run or walk through the forest, perhaps spending some time bird watching. If you are extra adventurous, an archery lesson would certainly make Diana shine.
// Watch // Hunger Games or Wild (Katniss and Cheryl Strayed both connect well with Diana’s spirit). Or try the documentaries American Revolution: The Evolution of Grace Lee Boggsor, and Maya Angelou’s And Still I Rise.
// Read // Rachel Carson (or other eco-feminist authors), Audre Lorde, Malala Yousafzai, and Gloria Steinem (because Diana loves activism and empowered women). Or try the classic, Women Who Run With the Wolves, by Clarissa Pinkola Estés.
// Home // Diana’s home is nature, so bring more of it indoors by decorating with pine cones and leaves, or wood art. She is also linked to forest creatures such as deer or rabbits. Adding touches, such as deer antlers or a papier-mâché deer head, will also do the trick.
With this month’s Equinox paving the way for cosmic change, it’s the perfect moment to harness the electricity and innovation of the Goddess Urania, says Rebecca Farrar …
Photo by Max Felner
Long before astronomy and astrology became separated, the myth of Goddess Urania inspired philosophical questions about our connection to the starry heavens above. You can find her energy today in planetariums, and she is activated any time we consider our cosmic context or become enchanted with our celestial existence.
We have her to thank for instilling us with wonder, awe, and curiosity, and for cultivating the spirit of discovery and innovation.
Urania comes from the Greek word “Ouranos” meaning “all of the heavens.” In Greek mythology, she was the daughter of Zeus and the mother-muse Mnemosyne, as well as great granddaughter to Uranus himself. She dressed in a cloak with stars and her mighty accessories were a globe and stylus, said to represent the world’s mysteries. It was said by ancient poets that she was able to predict the future by looking at the stars.
Astronomically, Urania was the 30th asteroid discovered in 1854, and is currently hanging out one-degree away from Neptune in Pisces where it will remain for the next few years, guiding our intuition and sky wisdom. In this placement, astrology and astronomy serve as perfect spiritual practices for contemplating the vastness of our solar system and how to integrate it into our own lives.
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While Uranus leans towards the collective and generational experience, Urania gives us a taste of our unique relationship to the heavens. Explore your own cosmic connection and curiosity by finding Urania in your own chart.
**To find Urania in your chart, go to astro.com, enter your birth information, choose “Extended Chart Selection,” scroll down to “Additional Asteroids,” and type in 30.
Use the suggestions below to discover how you can ground heavenly energies into your life and be inspired to innovate …
1st house// What aspect of your soul’s purpose inspires you to innovate the most? Learning about your life purpose as it relates to your astrology chart can be a tool, so can Human Design, Myer’s Briggs, or other purpose-driven systems that can align your heart with the heavens. Alternatively, organize a planetarium visit solo or with a group, as long as you lead.
2nd house// How can you ground more cosmic wisdom into your relationships, and what aspect of relating are you often most curious about? Urania connects universal love with our personal experience, and helps us notice that the ways we love are both unique to us and also a part of the collective. Take time to look at patterns in your relating that may connect you more deeply to love itself.
3rd house// What are things you have always wanted to learn about, related to science, mathematics, astronomy or other topics? The more we learn about the complexity of our universe, the more we might just find new ways of thinking about things on Earth. Perhaps take an astronomy class or read books or studies by astrophysicists (I currently have a crush on Mike Brown, the guy who discovered Eris).
4th house// How do you feel about the vastness of your connection to everything and everyone? Does it overwhelm you or make you feel more safe? More than any other Urania placement, it’s important for you to feel at home and safe in our solar system. Try decorating your home with celestial themes or symbols to remind you of your innate cosmic connection. I suggest wall prints with your Sun and Moon sign constellations.
5th house// What aspects of human life enchant or evoke awe for you? Great art can inspire you to innovate and create in your own life. Consider the solar system through the lens of creativity or self-expression- look up artists who were inspired by the cosmos such as Vasily Kandinsky or Van Gogh.
6th house// How has your day-to-day routine lacked curiosity or excitement? While things may seem to be orderly in the universe, it is both predictable and has enough strangeness to confuse even the best of scientists. Find a way to shake things up, using the starry heavens for inspiration. You might try tracking constellations or going outside at night and noticing planetary movements.
7th house// What is your relationship to aesthetics and how do you find more of your own personal style? More than any other placement, you may experience Urania as a sacred “other” or muse. Our solar system has its own harmony and perfect balance. Try relating to this through aesthetics in jewelry and clothing, such as hoop earrings symbolizing the symmetry of orbits or other patterns.
8th house// How do you honor the power of the unknown in your life? Connect with the sensation of dark matter or black holes- places where light can’t exist and yet are the most powerful forces in the cosmos. Take a trip down the Google rabbit hole on the topic. You may walk away with an ever greater appreciation for the power of the darkness.
9th house// Ask yourself the same questions posed by early philosophers. Why am I here? What is the human relationship to the stars? Plan a trip or get curious about travel locations related to sacred star spots. You might start with the book “Heaven’s Mirror” by Graham Hancock, which discusses the possible relationships between constellation Sirius and the Pyramids of Egypt.
10th house// How do you relate to time and legacy? The cosmos is timeless in that it has existed for 13.7 billion years and yet the existence of humans has been but a blip. It takes seven minutes for the light of the Sun to reach Earth, and 150,000 years for other stars in our galaxy. Spend time thinking about what legacy you want to leave that would last years or centuries.
11th house// Who and what are your orbit? The solar system is a group of planetary bodies held together by gravity and mutual attraction. Often people with strong Uranian energies feel like aliens or black sheep in communities. What are ways you can feel more included? Join a community connected to a topic that inspires you and find your fellow seekers.
12th house// How does music inspire you? The sounds of the universe and musical frequencies are deeply intertwined, and music and muse actually have the same root word. Listen to classical or ambient music (try Holsts’ Planets Symphony for starters), and pay attention to the complexity and mathematical connections. If you feel so inclined, write some of your own!
Photo by Jill Heyer
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And no matter where the asteroid is in your chart, here are ways to amuse your Uranian muse …
// Style // Black connects us to dark matter and the night sky. Wear it with intention for the vastness and expansion. Obviously clothing with constellations or planetary bodies are a hell yes.
// Food //My naturopath once told me that eating dark-colored food connected me to the cosmos. Gobble up blackberries, black sesame seeds, black mission figs, black rice, and beyond …
// Workout // Stroll under the stars or just sit under them like an old school philosopher or astronomer would.
// Watch // Cosmos with Neil deGrasse Tyson, Interstellar, ET, X-Files, or Hidden Figures
// Read //Anything by Carl Sagan or my former graduate school professor, cosmologist Brian Swimme
// Home // If you don’t already have them, add glow-in-the-dark stars to your ceiling or to other places where you’ll be able to see them at night. Add other fun pieces such as constellation art work or planetary mobiles.
// Healing // Meditate in the dark outside or channel cosmic energies with a Reiki session or a sound healing.
Want to harness your full feminine force through the stars? Activate some serious girl power with your asteroid goddess sign, says Rebecca Farrar.
With the Sun traveling through Virgo, the only female figure in the zodiac, it’s the perfect moment to harness the power of the zodiac’s feminine archetypes.
Just as modern women often face a limited expression of the feminine, traditional Western astrology often relegates us to either the mother (Moon) or lover (Venus).
Luckily, the four asteroid goddesses (Ceres, Vesta, Pallas, and Juno) open up a world beyond traditional roles of wife and mother, and lead us into a deeper exploration of our feminine complexity.
By diving into both the “positive” and challenging aspects of these placements in our charts, we can heal limiting dichotomies and make space for the re-emergence of a fuller expression of our feminine force …
Below, your guide to navigating and activating these placements in your chart. **New to your birthchart? Discover your asteroid signs by looking at your birth year and month HERE.
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:: CERES :: Roman Goddess of Agriculture, Grain, Fertility, and Mother-Daughter Relationships Ceres energy recognizes the paradox roles we inhabit as both our own parent and child. It also teaches us where we easily provide nurturance, love, and care to ourselves and others.
Illuminated Expressions: Self-parenting, nurturing self and others, acceptance of cycles of birth and death, caregiving
Shadow Expressions: Intense attachment to mother, projection of our unmet needs onto others, eating disorders
Placement by Sign: Unveils our deepest needs and reinforces our self-care priorities.
Ceres in Fire Signs:Nurturing and nourishment through movement (Aries), exploration (Sagittarius), and self-expression (Leo). *Make time for having mini-adventures, or celebrating your need for independence and dominance through traveling or starting your own side business.
Ceres in Earth Signs: Feels cared for with sensuality (Taurus), stability (Virgo), and commitment (Capricorn). *Connect with nature by taking a guided nature walk, learning more about the native plants or animals where you live, or spending time outside barefoot.
Ceres in Air Signs:Communication (Gemini), cooperation (Libra), and individuality (Aquarius) are places to foster nurturance. *Educate yourself on social justice and equality through taking classes or participating in activist groups, or explore art and design.
Ceres in Water Signs: Offer yourself and others nurturance by appreciating your need for feeling loved (Cancer), deep emotional bonding (Scorpio), or connection to spirit (Pisces). *Make time for seeing a therapist or being in groups where vulnerability and emotional expression is honored. Or volunteer your time doing something connects you to compassion for others.
:: VESTA :: Roman Goddess of Hearth and Home The second largest asteroid reminds us of our devotion and how we can commit to a spiritual path and guard our inner sacred flame. It also indicates how our sexuality unfolds or develops with time.
Illuminated Expressions: Connecting to spirit through ritual, dedication to personal ceremonies or spiritual path, desire to bring magic into human experience, sacred sexuality
Shadow Expressions: Unrealized sexual potential, fear or denial of sexuality and passion, self-alienation
Placement by Sign: Reveals what we ritualize or desire to make sacred
Vesta in a Fire sign: Energy and drive becomes channeled through ambition (Aries), creativity (Leo), or idealism (Sagittarius). *With this placement, sexuality may become alienated through so much self-focus. Notice how you may use your sexual energy as self-fulfillment or to dominate others instead of sustaining supportive, ongoing relationships.
Vesta in Earth Signs:Comfort (Taurus), service to others (Virgo), and hard work (Capricorn) are the touchstones for focusing passion. *Explore practices such as Tantric sexuality that unite the sacred aspects of Vesta with the down-to-Earth qualities of connecting.
Vesta in Air Signs:Find ways to dedicate yourself to knowledge (Gemini), balance (Libra), and change (Aquarius). *In an air sign, Vesta craves ideas and shifting perspectives. Take classes on human sexuality or write out your own sexual biography as a way of noticing patterns in your own evolution and process.
Vesta in Water Signs:Devotion to ones’ feelings (Cancer), explorations of the taboo (Scorpio), or spiritual practice (Pisces) take on more importance. *The fiery nature of Vesta and the water sign placement soften the focus and call for sexual healing. Understand your energetic boundaries with sexuality and steer clear of spaces or situations where they may not be honored.
:: PALLAS ATHENE (ATHENA) :: Greek Goddess of Wisdom, Craft, Poetry, and War Named after Athena, who honors the prophecy and oracle in us all, Pallas holds the key to our hidden genius.
Illuminated Expressions: Wisdom as integration of intuition and intellect, pattern recognition, strategic thinking, artistic expression
Shadow Expressions: Over identification with intellect, rejection of the inner feminine, black and white thinking
Placement by Sign: Shows us where we have intuitive gifts or creative intelligence.
Pallas in Fire Signs:Harness your unique genius by initiating (Aries), creating (Leo), or larger-than-life visioning (Sagittarius). *Try martial arts such as kung fu or t’ai chi, or fencing, to harness the innate warrior intelligence. Pallas in Leo and Sag may want to channel the fiery nature into creativity with arts and crafts, or take up chess where pattern recognition and playfulness meet.
Pallas in Earth Signs:Creative intelligence could be well suited for art (Taurus), woodworking (Virgo), or architecture (Capricorn). *Pallas here wants foundational or practical skills. Use a hands-on approach for finding a creative outlet that allows for your own clarity of touch and intentionality.
Pallas in Air Signs: Explore your gifts in debate or speech class (Gemini), mediation (Libra), or activism (Aquarius). *Pallas in air utilizes her keen sense of wisdom, perception, and the power of words. Become an advocate for change and the breath of fresh air it brings to your mind.
Pallas in Water Signs: Notice patterns of emotion (Cancer), intensity (Scorpio), or dream interpretation (Pisces) *Pallas’ intuitive gifts become more obvious here and perception turns towards the feeling realm. Use your skills in music, film, psychotherapy, or photography.
:: JUNO :: Roman Goddess of Marriage and the Queen of the Gods Juno presides over marriage and business partnerships, and often indicates the type of person we marry or find it easy to commit to. She helps us differentiate between being attracted to someone versus what is a good long-term fit for us.
Illuminated Expressions: Balanced partnership that honors both individual purpose and connection through commitment, equality, and loyalty
Shadow Expressions: Attachment patterns, power struggles and jealousy in relationships, fears and manipulation, controlling expressions of the feminine that detach us from personal needs and selfhood
Placement by Sign: Understanding what motivates us to be in partnership, and how we can create both togetherness and individuality
Juno in Fire Signs:Relationships with excitement that also involve independence (Aries), admiration (Leo), and unified vision (Sagittarius) are all main motivators for partnerships. Keep an eye on passion that leads too far into drama or becomes destructive. *Look for potential partners at the gym or places where you can expand your horizons.
Juno in Earth Signs: Keeps an eye out for stability in relationship and looks for physical security (Taurus), day-to-day support (Virgo), and dependability (Capricorn). *Ideal long-term partners could include people you meet at work, or in more traditional ways such as friends of friends, or even a matchmaker.
Juno in Air Signs:Seeks mental stimulation (Gemini), equality (Libra), or freedom (Aquarius) in partnership. Honor the air element by honing communication skills in relationships and staying open to something more non-traditional. *Locations for cosmic connections could include school or community events.
Juno in Water Signs:Juno appreciates nurturing (Cancer), intimate bonding (Scorpio), and spiritual connection (Pisces).Juno here may also be prone to not see things clearly, so keep away from manipulation, power struggles, or fantasy. *Karmic partnerships may form at church, through family friends, or even at intense bastions of sexuality like strip clubs!
Rebecca, aka The Wild Witch of the West
Before becoming an astrologer more than seven years ago, “Wild Witch of the West” Rebecca Farrar was a huge skeptic. Now, she can’t imagine doing anything else! When not staring at her transits, she can be found wandering Ocean Beach, curled up with a good book, or “force” cuddling her kitty Freyja. For more cosmic musings, follow her on Instagram and Facebook.
Born under a bad sign? Frederick Steinmann says so-called difficult placements are actually opportunities for greater awareness, acceptance, and transformation.Images: Veda Wildfire
Venus entered Aries on April 28,and the planet of love’s journey through this bold, assertive (and sometimes brash and selfish) warrior archetype is not always … smooth. In the sign of Aries, Venus is in its “detriment”- indicating one of the 4 states possible for each planet when placed in different zodiac signs (“detriment” and “fall” being more challenging, while “exaltation” and “rulership” the easier placements).
Rulership: Planets here are “at home” in their environment and easy to express. Exaltation: A step beyond rulership, planets here have a chance to achieve their highest expression. Detriment: The opposite of rulership- planets are in slightly uncomfortable territory, and the energy may need to become unblocked or unstuck. Fall: The opposite of exaltation—energy is lessened and may need some invigoration in order to achieve expression.
For example, in Aries, Venus wants what she wants, now, and on her terms. Fiery Aries is quick with passion but not with compromise. Venus in its detriment could learn a thing or too about love from Venus’ ruling sign, Libra (the opposite sign to Aries). Venus in Libra naturally knows how to pause and apply strategy instead of just a quick reaction.
When in their detriment or fall, planets are challenged to adjust, to learn, and to further refine the energies symbolized by that planet. Below, a guide to these cosmic challenges …
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**Discover your challenging placements by calculating your birth chart. No challenging aspects? You can still use the dates below to work with these energies throughout the year as the planet indicated spends time in that sign!
:: THE SUN :: Rulership: Leo // Exaltation: Aries // Detriment: Aquarius // Fall: Libra The Sun is the single most important point in a horoscope. He vitalizes Earth and the rest of our solar system, and relates to our “individuality”- who we are beyond our thoughts and emotions.
Detriment in Aquarius (2017 Dates: January 19-February 18) Aquarius energy is connected to the concept of humanity as a whole, but can sometimes struggle with the messiness of the individual. Aquarians circulate the solar force within the group by “fixing their will” in the service of group ideals. The Sun in Aquarius placement is all about learning how to balance group ideals with individual creativity, and sometimes learning to say “Yes, I really matter!”
Fall in Libra(2017 Dates: September 22- October 23) Because of their penchant for pursuing the perfect relationship, Libra Sun signs’ individual vitality can become diffused. Librans can learn how to vitalize themselves by developing some Aries energy in relationships. A good way to start is by noticing: “where am I holding back from asserting my individuality and just strategically reflecting what the other person wants to hear.” Assertion of individuality will rebalance vitality and allow space for creative expression.
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:: THE MOON :: Rulership: Cancer // Exaltation: Taurus // Detriment: Capricorn // Fall: Scorpio The Moon is the second most important point in the horoscope, and represents emotions, imagination, memories, and how we are nurtured.
**2017 Dates: Because the Moon changes signs every few days, check Planet Watcher for the current placement. We’ll have a Full Moon in Scorpio on May 10th, a New Moon in Scorpio on November 18th, and a Full Moon in Capricorn on July 9th.
Detriment in Capricorn The Moon and achievement-conscious Capricorn are both related to security but they have opposing views. The ambition and drive to achieve success in society are energetically opposed with the Moon’s nurturing function (just think of those countless burnt out corporate ladder climbers!) Capricorn moons will benefit from reevaluating safety and security needs, scheduling time for self-care rituals like massage, and just feeling their feelings.
Fall in Scorpio In fixed signs, the Moon wants to hold on to inherited patterns of nurturing, and in fixed Scorpio the art is in learning to let go. Scorpio Moons are nurtured through in-depth sharing that leads to transformation. Learn to honor your watery depths by getting in touch with more difficult emotions. You might try Jungian therapy, group counseling, or another form of therapy where you can share, transform, and release old habits.
:: MERCURY :: Rulership: Gemini & Virgo // Exaltation: Aquarius // Detriment: Sagittarius // Fall: Pisces & Leo As the ruler of thought, reason, and communication, Mercury is an androgynous planet that picks up masculine or feminine energy depending on the sign or relationship to other planets.
Detriment in Sagittarius (2017 Dates: November 5-January 11 2018, retrograde December 3-22) With Sag’s philosophically expanded worldview, Mercury placed here can tend towards exaggeration, embellishment, boastfulness, or the zealous view that one’s personal opinion equals a universal outlook. To work with this energy, it’s important to notice when you’re blowing things out of proportion and to practice more discretion in speech.
Fall in Pisces(2017 Dates: February 25-March 13) With the overemphasis on words and rational thought in Western education, Mercury in Pisces may feel that their imagination or creativity is “silly.” The key here is learning to believe that compassion doesn’t always need to be verbalized- a loving presence or hug can work. Emotional communication is a valid form of communication. Dream interpretation or a study of symbols like the Tarot could help bring out the best in this Mercury.
Fall in Leo(2017 Dates: July 5-July 25) Leo represents creative expression and Mercury placed here sometimes thinks they are an instant prodigy! In order to achieve the highest form of expression, this Mercury could use a dose of Aquarian objectivity to integrate their vision into society. Developing a meditation practice with a mantra like “thoughts are things, I am not my thoughts” will help with this process.
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:: VENUS :: Rulership: Taurus & Libra // Exaltation: Pisces // Detriment: Scorpio & Aries // Fall: Virgo Venus is the goddess of love, beauty, and harmony. She also rules the Law of Attraction- how you value and feel about yourself ultimately manifests in both your relationships and your bank account.
Detriment in Scorpio(2017 Dates: November 7-December 1) In Scorpio, the challenging call is to transform the Venusian areas of love, relationships, and money. Learning to value your own and others’ resources appropriately is a lesson for this Venus. Another challenge comes from dealing with intensity and learning when to say no to excitement and emotional thrills that may lead to financial or emotional problems. Find your own value and trust in the process of regeneration.
Fall in Virgo(2017 Dates: September 19- October 14) Virgo is a mutable sign associated with the process of improvement, and when attached to Venus this can manifest as sharp criticism and endless “fixing” in relationships. Learning to dissolve some of your hyper-awareness through loving self-acceptance (the Piscean end of the polarity), and editing internal and external critique is key.
:: MARS :: Rulership: Aries & Scorpio // Exaltation: Capricorn, // Detriment: Taurus & Libra // Fall: Cancer Mars rules the primitive side of our natures through the “4 Fs”: Feeding, fighting, fleeing, and … reproduction. The god of war is eager to penetrate the environment. A person’s humanness has a lot to do with Mars management- whether they are impulsive and brash or able to direct their will consciously and compassionately.
Detriment in Taurus(2017 Dates: March 9-21) When Mars is in Taurus, the desire for sensual experience is strong, and the challenge lies in overcoming and disciplining the heightened five senses. The drive and primal motive will be towards more concrete expressions of Taurus like money and sex. This placement will have to learn more about the unseen value of experience and presence. Try exercises like conscious, meditative eating where you pause gratefully for 5 minutes with a meal in front of you before diving in. Notice and observe what comes up without judgment.
Detriment in Libra(2017 Dates: October 22-December 9) While Mars is all about fighting and assertion, Libra is about initiating relationships and this combination can lead to passive aggressive behavior. In Aries, it’s easy to fight our enemy but Mars in Libra has to sit at the table with them and negotiate. This Mars placement is learning how to evolve from an impulsive to a refined human being. Learn to balance instinctive reactions towards your partners’ moves with healthy self-assertion of your own desires.
Fall in Cancer(2017 Dates: June 4-July 20) Mars will always act out to assert himself as separate, and in Cancer the tendency towards cohesion and bonding leads to a conflict. Mars in Cancers act when they feel safe with their tribe and outside of this familiar context, the impulse to assert the self is repressed. This is a sign where Mars is learning courage. Courage comes through assertion of individuality in the world beyond the tribe (the Capricorn end of the polarity). Practicing action-oriented activities like martial arts will help build the confidence to express your desires!
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Fred Steinmann is a New York-based consulting astrologer who advises entrepreneurs, creative professionals, leaders of thought and industry, and all those searching for clarity, guidance, direction, and inspiration during uncertain times. He bases his practice on training and study in Ageless Wisdom, and astrological techniques grounded in 10+ years of professional experience advising clients and colleagues on Wall Street.
The planet of power, transformation, and absolute intensity can make us want to run and hide. Fear not, says Patricia Clark Hippolyte! Pluto Retrograde 2017 is a super potent moment to embrace our shadow side and let it out into the light…
Thursday, April 20th :: Pluto Stations Retrograde :: 19 Degrees of Capricorn
Thursday, September 28th :: Pluto Goes Direct :: 16 Degrees of Capricorn
All retrograde cycles allow us to return to the scene of the crime, so to speak. “Why am I dealing with this again?!” you may wonder. That’s the point of a retrograde—any issue that comes up for you will have to be dealt with three times over before you can learn the lesson.
Picture it this way. You’re driving along and go over a speed bump. Then, you put the car in reverse and go over it a second time. And then, you put the car in drive and go over the bump a third time. Simple enough! Except when it’s a Pluto retrograde. This presents a considerably more challenging situation…
Pluto can have bad reputation in the cosmos. But this relates merely to the “lower octave” of the planet’s energy. For example, we’d all like to think we take the higher ground, but we also all have stress, jobs, family, and partners that wear on us. And sometimes we make decisions from a place of insecurity, and end up living a life of deceit rather than face the shit storm. Life is not as pretty as we’d like it to be. We don’t want to admit that it’s complicated and messy so we lie: to ourselves, and to others. This is unrefined Pluto energy.
But Pluto doesn’t lie, people do. You’ve heard the saying “the house always wins”? Well it’s the same with Pluto. This planet’s influence can lead us into shadiness OR it can invite us towards transformation by asking us to step into the darker version of ourselves, the shadow self.
With Pluto transits, it can feel as if the elephant in the room can no longer be avoided. And if you’re willing to surrender to Pluto’s challenges, you can harness his transformational edge. Pluto protects us, keeps us on our toes, and magnetizes us to objects of desire. And after Pluto has taken you down, down, down, there is an immense potential for personal growth.
Cause without the darkness…there is no light, right?!
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To discover what lessons Pluto retrograde has for you, check out where Pluto retrograde is backing up in your birth chart right now. This means look to the house with 16—19 degrees of Capricorn.
When Pluto transits a house, it makes for some interesting transformations relating to that particular area of life. Think change, regeneration, and perhaps a little bit of secrecy and subversion. Pluto digs up what we’ve buried. But don’t worry—these changes are inevitable and necessary. Embrace whatever is surfacing!
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:: Capricorn Rising—1st House :: Changing how you see yourself and reshaping your personality. Getting a grip on unconscious drives and urges to control people, situations and, well, … EVERYTHING!
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:: Sagittarius Rising—2nd House :: A value system overhaul—both psychologically and materially. Don’t buy the McMansion just yet. You may yet discover it’s not what “luxury” truly means to you.
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:: Scorpio Rising—3rd House :: Intensified thought processes and conversations. Be wary of black and white attitudes that bypass the gray, and rule out the opportunity for productive discourse.
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:: Libra Rising—4th House :: Grappling internally with problems from childhood and family … it’s always Mom, isn’t it! On the outside, changes in your relationship to home—repairing your living space or moving entirely.
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:: Virgo Rising—5th House :: Intensified relationship patterns—either the beginnings of a magnetic new relationship or the break down of old patterns in a current relationship. If you have children, there may be some power struggles!
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:: Leo Rising—6th House :: Transformation of your health and daily routine—physical regeneration through good dietary choices or a possible breakdown of poor dietary habits.
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:: Cancer Rising—7th House :: Embarking on an “amazing ’til it isn’t” relationship or being challenged to change your present relationship. Seeing power plays in partnerships for what they really are.
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:: Gemini Rising—8th House :: Be careful with any joint possessions or other people’s resources—think your spouse’s or employer’s. Also a time to get familiar with any unmet desires.
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:: Taurus Rising—9th House :: A great moment for absorbing and learning from experience, and gaining new knowledge. What beliefs have you been blindly holding onto, and where are you getting woke?
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:: Aries Rising—10th House :: If you know where you’re at with your career, there’s a good chance of success at this time. If you’re uncertain, there’s a high chance of a total change of path.
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:: Pisces Rising—11th House :: A perfect time to seek out more like-minded friends who will aid you in your transformations. It’s also a good moment for prioritizing actions that truly give back.
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:: Aquarius Rising—12th House :: A game of psychological chess with yourself! It’s time to deal with old patterns and behaviors that worked in childhood but don’t translate now (read: no more tantrums on the floor!)
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Patricia Clark Hippolyte has been seeing stars for well over two decades. With international private readings and intensive three-day courses, she reveals astrological ciphers that help people work with their current and future planetary involvements. Though the stars often shine a painfully bright light on the realities of daily life, remember: starlight is better than no light at all.
The 2017 Virgo Full Moon beckons us to find the mystery & magic in the mundane, says Sandra Sitron...
Join a virtual ritual for the 2017 Virgo Full Moon on 3/12 when you sign up for Moon Club.
Full Moon :: March 12 2017 :: 10:54 am EST :: 22 degrees Virgo
Put your ear to the seashell and listen. Let your world expand beyond your current reality by noticing the magic in the details of life. To notice the details you have to be present in the moment. You have to harness the Now.
You may feel drawn to fantasy and escape, but keep bringing yourself back to the mundane. Keep watching yourself stir the soup. This is where you will find the real spaciousness. It exists in simple consciousness.
Sunday’s Virgo Full Moon is opposite the Sun in Pisces. Pisces and Virgo offer us two portals into spirituality. The Pisces portal is outside of the body—it’s “through the veil.” Pisces helps us move outside of boundaries and remember our “boundary-less” soul. We are light and universal love.
The Virgo portal is completely centered in the complexities of the body and life on Earth. To enter the world of spirit through the Virgo portal, one must go into the Now—into the moment. One must be present and centered. To create a stable foundation for this practice, it helps to refine the health of the body and mind.
The 2017 Virgo Full Moon has a lot to teach us. Because these are two mutable signs, we will be making adjustments to improve our experience. Contrast may cause you (or the people around you) to be more self-critical. There is a feeling of “I’ve got to get it right.” By navigating through these feelings of self-doubt and self-criticism, you can find your way to self-love. And you must. You must turn every critique into a declaration of love.
This requires you to listen to your thoughts. And it’s hard to listen to your thoughts if they are coming fast. So slow it down. A meditation practice will help with this. This process is gentle and gradual. Make tiny changes. Although the tone of this lunation is about small adjustments, don’t be surprised if you experience a major healing.
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2017 Virgo Full Moon opposite Chiron and Mercury. Sanding down a piece of furniture. There is a lot of healing energy coming through as Chiron (the wounded-healer asteroid) joins the Sun (essence) and Mercury (mind). All three are opposite the Moon. Healing “Self” will be front and center. How does this happen? Look around for traces of your curriculum. If something pulls at your mind or emotions ask yourself, “is this my curriculum?” Ask yourself: “What is the deeper lesson here?” This may feel transformative, like sanding down an old chair. Small adjustments add up to big changes.
Moon trine Pluto A polished diamond. More healing. More adjustments. Polishing and polishing your inner diamond. Letting go. Letting go of control. Why do you need to control anyway? You are safe. You are well. It’s all okay. Let go and move on to a new level. You let go and you move away from ego. The inner diamond is the soul essence that is free from ego constraints.
Moon quincunx Uranus Indigestion. And there is a little hiccup here. Uranus (the Great Awakener) tugs at the Moon uncomfortably. The Moon is trying to hang in there and do some healing work and Uranus is pulling away saying, “F*ck it. Let’s get out of here! I don’t have time for this! This is too hard!” (Or frustrating, slow, uncomfortable, etc.) This is all fine. It can be kind of fun to laugh at the urge to hit the eject button.
Summary Get quiet. Guide your thoughts toward the present moment. Slow down the thoughts through meditation so that there is time to remember the point of all this: Love. Look for the lessons, let go of ego, and sit quietly through discomfort. Go through the portal.
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Use the questions below to dive deeper into the lessons of the 2017 Virgo Full Moon. For a more accurate reading, calculate your chart for free here and see what house holds 22 degrees Virgo…
Aries or Moon in the 6th house If your body could write you a letter, what would it say?
Taurus or Moon in the 5th house What does the concept of “self-expression” mean to you?
Gemini or Moon in the 4th house How can you nurture yourself today? And every day?
Cancer or Moon in the 3rd house What’s your current vision of your community? How would you like it to be?
Leo or Moon in the 2nd house What’s one small adjustment you can make that will help you feel more grounded?
Virgo or Moon in the 1st house Where in your life are you feeling called to be a leader?
Libra or Moon in the 12th house Write a letter to your “Inner-Critic.” Offer your gratitude and make some gentle requests.
Scorpio or Moon in the 11th house Are you ready to make any adjustments to your vision for the future?
Sagittarius or Moon in the 10th house How do you best define your mission-statement for your career?
Capricorn or Moon in the 9th house Which archetype within you needs more freedom?
Aquarius or Moon in the 8th house What are you ready to let go of? Follow your feelings to work this out.
Pisces or Moon in the 7th house Can you get really clear about your needs? Can you do the same with a partner?
Want more wisdom? Book a reading with Sandra here.
The Pisces New Moon Solar Eclipse is asking us to JUST BE, and allow for a cosmic re-set, says Sandra Sitron…
Learn how to work with each Moon phase when you sign up for Moon Club! Click here to learn more
New Moon Solar Eclipse :: February 26 2017 :: 10:00 am EST :: 8 degrees Pisces
It is time to clean up and restore before the next astrological year begins. Gather yourself in your center. Honor your emotions. Sit with yourself in a quiet cave and heal. To look inside of yourself for the truth. This is your moment to draw back the curtain and see into your own soul.
As we, the Sun and the Moon, come into alignment, let go of your assumptions. Let yourself see the truth. This is not time for practical thinking. The information coming through now is more like poetry. If you hold a great appreciation for logic, take this moment to feel the spaces between words. Drift a little instead of trying to rigidly hold onto a concept.
This New Moon Solar Eclipse is in Pisces. A new moon happens every month when the Sun and the Moon are at the same degree. When this occurs, the moon looks dark, making it a time for quiet contemplation and healing. It’s a time to set new seeds of intention. When the Moon and Sun are both near a lunar node (orbital plane), a solar eclipse can occur. This happens about twice a year. Part or all of the Sun’s light is obstructed from the Earth’s view (whether or not you can see it depends on where you are located on earth.)
In astrological terms, this configuration creates a massive “reset.” It is time to bring in new energy and a new perspective. With this New Moon Solar Eclipse in the sign of Pisces, we are planting fresh seeds of compassion. We are learning how to heal ourselves and others. Pisces is the last sign of the zodiac. It holds the experience of all the other signs. The old saying “put yourself in someone else’s shoes,” fits in here. Pisces has walked all the walks. And as such, Pisces energy holds compassion for the entire human experience.
You may find yourself extra sensitive during this time. This can feel overwhelming, so you may decide to slide away from all the feels like a slippery fish. Take notice if you see yourself trying to drown out emotion with any kind of compulsive behavior. Instead, can you just sit with the feelings? This is a time to “go through something” rather than “get over something.” Follow your intuition closely. Keep checking in with yourself. Let yourself be however you are. This is the essential first step of healing.
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New Moon Conjunct Neptune A sea anemone waves in the depths of salt water. Find yourself floating with sensitive awareness. Sink into senses you don’t normally use. Trust what you know. Sensitivity is heightened here. As is magic, enchantment, illusion and confusion. Find your path through the fog by trusting your inner light. Your power is in what you feel.
New Moon Conjunct Mercury Sparkle emoji. *ding* That special sparkle! That glimmer of light! As the planet that rules thinking and communicating is lining up with the Sun, Moon ,and Neptune, a new awareness can shine through. Maybe even with a hint of glitter. The clarity you are looking for is just within reach, but you may have to follow your intuition to find it. As wounded healer Chiron is hovering on the outskirts of this stellium configuration, your conceptual clues may trigger old wounds. Leading from pain to revelation to healing. Choose to see clearly so that you can allow this process to unfold.
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New Moon Semi-Square Mars and Uranus Looking through a telescope at a bomb hitting the surface of the ocean. Boom. There is some explosive energy here. As you let your emotions flow freely, steer toward compassion for yourself and others. Focus on this. Do it so that if turmoil hits your emotional waters, you’re ready to objectively focus on love. The energy of Mars conjunct Uranus in Aries is creative, fast and electrical. Your instinct may be to make quick decisions. As the symbol represents “keeping an eye on things,” lean in the direction of patient observation when you can.
New Moon Sesqui-Quadrate Jupiter A balloon seller at the fair. Get on the optimism track whenever you can this weekend. Jupiter is bringing in expansion and healing. As the ancient ruler of Pisces, this energy can help you see the best in everyone. Stay positive. With just the right amount of helium balloons, yuo may even achieve lift-off. You never know.
Summary Take quiet space to feel your feelings. Focus on compassion. Honor your sensitivity. Following your intuition leads to clarity. Practice love and optimism to help you remain peaceful in times of turmoil.
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Use the below questions to get deeper in your journaling practice for the Pisces New Moon Solar Eclipse. For a more accurate reading, calculate your chart for free here and see what house holds 8 degrees Pisces…
Aries or Moon in 12th house How can I drift a little bit more? Where in my life can I choose to receive instead of taking action?
Taurus or Moon in 11th house What is one way I can funnel my compassion into an action that serves the greater good? How would this serve me too?
Gemini or Moon in 10th house Can more compassion for myself positively impact my career? How would I envision this happening?
Cancer or Moon in 9th house How can I expand my worldview by bringing in more love? Can I focus on channelling compassion to someone who lives far away from me?
Leo or Moon in 8th house What feeling is demanding more attention? What would it be like to sit with this feeling? What am I not seeing right now?
Virgo or Moon in 7th house How can I serve another person through my words or attention? How can also I bring more attention to my need to be compassionate with myself?
Libra or 6th house How can I make self-care simple? What are a few things I can do every week that are easy and show how much I love myself?
Scorpio or 5th house What is a gift that you can share with the world today?
Sagittarius or 4th house When am I most encouraging of myself? How can I be more like a “good mother” to myself?
Capricorn or 3rd house What practice helps me get out of the way and allows my words and thoughts to flow intuitively?
Aquarius or 2nd house How can I show myself how much you value myself? What feels like luxury to me?
Pisces or 1st house Where in my life do I need to illuminate a sense of hope?
Feeling like you need really do need a cosmic re-set? Sign-up for Sandra’s FREE mind-body astrology e-course at this link!
Big up to the grass roots entrepreneurs, an infrared detox, meeting my Mini Me…and the lies we buy about booze.
Witchy vibes in the streets of Sibenik with Alexandra Roxo and Jayne Goldheart
:: MONDAY :: Massive shout out to the organizers of Obanjan, the Croatian music and wellness fest I returned early from today. Early because a gnarly confluence of eco-operational-political factors meant they had to postpone the opening…the night before the opening, having already flown artists and contributors in from all over the world! And with close to 300 guests and press arriving for the big reveal to boot. A.k.a. every entrepreneurs worst. Freaking. Nightmare.
And here’s the thing. It’s fear of monumental s*it like this hitting the fan that keeps most of us from stepping up, pursuing our dreams and truly doing our dharma. From putting our heart, soul, balls (ovaries?) and life savings on the line to create something we truly believe in. Anybody who’s built a business or launched a project or product will have experienced similar setbacks—falling somewhere on the sliding scale of devastation. I know I have. And it feels HORRIBLE. And I keep putting my heart, and soul, and ovaries and life savings into my projects anyway.
We all say we want less corporate, less branded, more DIY experiences, right? Well down in the grass roots, there are also gonna be some weeds.
Sure, it was an inconvenience to fly half way across the world for nothing. (Although it wasn’t for nothing really, since I got to brainstorm with my boo Alexandra Roxo, hang out with Shauna and Morgan from Unlimited, FINALLY bond with brilliant Jayne Goldheart, and meet the magical Gail Schock). And yeah, if the holiday I’d booked got cancelled/delayed at the last minute, I’d be pretty pissed off too. But really? Fairly minimal annoyances compared to what the organizers were going through.
All I kept thinking as I witnessed the fallout, was: Good for you. Good for you for feeling the fear, and doing it f*cking anyway.
AND latest update is, Obonjan opens for business Friday Aug 5 (yes, that’s today!!) Keep following their Twitter and Instagram accounts for more updates.
:: TUESDAY :: Shout out to another badass entrepreneur, Henry Holland, who I watched set up his label House of Holland from scratch out of the fashion cupboard of the magazine we were working on together 10 years ago. Wow, a whole decade! And with PLENTY a “character building” road-bump along the way. Anyhow, this rather special sweatshirt (below) from his latest collaboration with Lee arrived in the mail today. #COSMIC!
:: WEDNESDAY :: Infrared saunas, anybody? It’s a big YES PLEASE from me after my first visit to HigherDOSE today, a new spa offering private infrared sessions in Manhattan. I kind of never got the sauna thing, but secluded in my little wooden hut, my own music on the speakers, sweating tennis balls of toxic travel stress (see: Monday), I found myself thinking: well this feels like it’s REALLY good for me. Kind of like Bikram, without the pain part. Maybe it’s cuz I was also reading their info pack—”decreases cortisol, increases serotonin; detoxifies heavy metals, radiation, and environmental toxins; stimulates collagen, reduces wrinkles; burns 600 calories a session (!)”—and maybe it’s cuz Kate Bosworth was in the booth next door. But I’ll be back. Discover more: Higherdose.com
:: THURSDAY :: Got the actual date my book will be published next year…which meant I could finally do her birth chart!! (Yes, she’s a she). AND, it turns out we have the same Rising (public image), Moon (emotional center), Mercury (communication style) and Midheaven (professional path). How freaking rad is that?! Talk about Mini Me. She also has her North Node (karmic destiny point) at 0 degrees Virgo—which says she’s destined to be of service in the world, but colored with some unbridled Leo North Node self-expression. I want to be her friend already 🙂
:: FRIDAY :: Will be mainly spent spreading the word about my next Club SÖDA NYC event with Biet Simkin and special guest Betsy LeFae, Sex, Lies & Alcohol. Turns out summer (not to mention toxic travel stress: see Monday) is a major drinking trigger for me (anyone?)—the “lie” my inner booze demon spins, that day-drinking in the sunshine is what August is made for. My personal truth being that nothing feels as blissfully free (my core desired feelings from day drinking) as…never being hung-over! It’s been getting super down with my intuition—simply, what feels right and what feels wrong for me—that’s helped me truly connect to this, which is why I’m so happy intuition coach Betsy is joining us for this event. Read more and get your ticket here.
Earth magic, moon magick, astro magick and the magick of sisterhood…so so so so much magick to report this week!
With my retreat co-creators, Alexandra Roxo and Elyssa Jakim
:: MONDAY :: Still high / nursing a slight vulnerability hang-over following our Re-Write Your Love Story retreat upstate with Maha Rose North. If you saw my IG post Monday morning you’ll have got an idea of just how transformative the experience was for all involved. And I’m not gonna share too many details here (what happens on retreat stays on retreat, y’all!), EXCEPT to tell you about the moment we made actual freaking Earth magick.
Cut to Saturday night, and we’re ready to purge some of our old love stories around a crackling bonfire out in the forest, and we gather beneath the trees to a rumble of thunder and distant flash of lightening in the rapidly darkening sky. One by one, we begin to throw our old stories, our out-dated patterns, and our most deep-seated fears into the fire. Once we’ve all gone, we hold hands and a peaceful silence descends on our circle. The fire gently smolders, and another clap of thunder tells us the storm is getting closer.
Then, a lone voice opens the releasing up again, sparking a new wave of purging into the fire—purging of societal shit, of global shit, of deep, deep, deep ancestral shit. And as our words becomes more raw, more vulnerable, and more elemental, the first drops of rain begin to fall. Soft at first, and steadily building until the trees above can no longer shelter us. “I release not feeling lovable enough to be a powerful woman in the world.” “I release…the Rules.” “I release all hatred towards my body.”
It’s the last one that sets it off, and the heavens open, sending a deluge of water cascading down on us, washing the ashes of our words back into the Earth. I can’t contain a whoop of joyous laughter, and I look up to the sky, shouting: “THANK YOU FOR HEARING US!” Goddess responds with another huge smack of thunder, and we all lose it—laughing and sobbing and whooping, before finally running for shelter, fully electrified by the experience of what felt like communing live and direct with Mama Earth!
Like I said, real deal Earth magick in action. And, I now believe with every cell in my being, available to each and every one of us when we show up and give it up as our purest, most vulnerable, unadulterated animal selves.
The posing before the storm…
:: TUESDAY :: Speaking of feeling connected to the Cosmos, today’s Capricorn Full Moon (marking a culmination point in finance and career for me—due to my Sagittarius Rising and Aries Sun signs) saw me banking the second and final payment for the advance on my book. This, after last month’s Sagittarius Full Moon (lighting my houses of self-image and publishing) was the day I submitted the edited draft of my manuscript/memoir. Confirming my belief that the more closely you align yourself with your soul path as written in your stars (i.e. your birth chart), the more closely the stars align themselves with YOU.
:: WEDNESDAY :: Did I mention that my retreat sisters (Alexandra Roxo and Elyssa Jakim) and I were also all bleeding together over our weekend upstate? “We’re in the Red Tent,” Elyssa nodded wisely Sunday morning—the night after our bonfire. And today when I met with Alexandra Derby, who facilitated the actual Red Tent ceremony I attended last summer, and who’s Cosmic Cycle tincture system I am crediting with finally (like, for the first time in my life) regulating my menstrual flow, we were wearing almost identical red dresses AND she was on her moon time too! Seems like the Numi tribe is synching up. OBVIOUSLY.
:: THURSDAY :: A trip to Connecticut to experience forest bathing—a.k.a. a guided meditative walk through the woods, a.k.a. the Japanese art of Shinrin-yoku. New to the spa menu at the fancy Mayflower Grace hotel, research in Japan has shown that regular walks among deciduous trees shows increased scores for vigor, attentiveness, relaxation, friendliness, self confidence and clearing one’s mind—as well as decreased the scores for hostility, boredom, depression, anger, fatigue and confusion.
Oh, and it fights cancer and stuff too. The major reason for these findings is the presence of phytoncides in deciduous forests—particles produced to help plants & trees protect themselves from harmful insects and germs, which also decrease stress hormone levels and improve immunity. The forest “bath”? A slow, meandering stroll among our friends the trees, taking extra time to stop and smell the…phytoncides. Bliss. Book at www.gracehotels.com/mayflower
:: FRIDAY :: OMG and there’s yet more Earth magic to come, as today I’m getting excited for OBONJAN! Read all about it here, but Obonjan is a summer-long music and wellbeing festival taking over a private island in Croatia, where I’ll be giving a talk on how to Get High On Your Own Supply next Saturday. They’ve also invite some of my favorite Numi friends + fam to be part of the experience, and so I’m also looking forward to some hang time with Alexandra Roxo (again, yay!), the New Age Hipster, Jayne Goldheart, Morgan Yakus and Shauna Cummins, and the guys from She’s Lost Control. Come join us! I’m only staying a week, but the island is open from July 28—September 6. You can find all the booking details here.
Sun in Cancer, Sag rising…and Chiron in Aries suggesting an ongoing healing around violence and anger issues. Amelia Quint breaks down the birth chart of the USA…
Happy Fourth of July everyone?
Given numerous painful events we’ve had to endure as a nation since our country’s last birthday, the mood at this year’s Independence Day festivities may be a little grim. Still, when Numinous founder Ruby invited me to look at the birth chart of the USA, the answer was an automatic yes! I was excited to look to the stars and see what answers they might hold about our national character, as well as America’s future.
The first thing I noticed was the Sun in Cancer with both traditional benefic planets – Venus and Jupiter – close by. That’s an amazing omen. Our founding fathers either had an incredible stroke of luck (or, some conspiracy theorists might say, some occult knowledge) working in their favor when they signed the Declaration of Independence.
Unfortunately, they also had Mercury retrograde in the same sign to contend with…
Cancer also rules heritage, something that’s deeply ingrained in the American way of life. As a nation of immigrants, we’re encouraged to always “remember where you came from,” with utmost respect for the family. And with family comes food, another inherently Cancerian realm – in particular comfort food, something our nation can do a little too well.
Cancer is also associated with hospitality, an American (especially Southern) speciality. With Venus and Jupiter here, it’s how we relate to and show our love to others, and it’s integral to our cultural philosophy. Mercury retrograde here in the USA birth chart means it might not always sound sincere, but when an American hopes you “have a nice day!” – we do generally mean it.
In contrast, Sagittarius rising gives America its “young, scrappy, and hungry” swagger. Sagittarius ascendants are common among rebels, idealists, and philosophers – all archetypes embodied by the founding fathers. Competition comes naturally to this sign, as it has the United States, for better or for worse, at various periods during our nation’s history. Consider in particular the westward expansion, the early days of NASA, and the Cold War.
Saturn transited America’s ascendant from November to December last year, and will be hovering close by again throughout the summer of 2016. In close proximity to the ascendant, Saturn has changed and will continue to change we way we view ourselves as a nation.
What makes an American? Saturn is a difficult energy to contend with and, sadly, this conversation has taken a negative turn. It’s important to also remember that since Saturn rules karma, whatever we sow now, we will reap. If you are American, I invite you to work tireasly to invite more peace, acceptance, and openness into the American identity.
The United States also has Pluto in Capricorn, and will have a Pluto Return from 2022 to 2024. Because of his slow movement – it takes him 14 years to transit one sign! – it’s impossible for humans to have a Pluto transit at this point in time, but charts for events or countries can experience one. And since Pluto rules the cycle of death and rebirth, when he returns to his placement in the birth chart, an intensely potent transformational energy is released. 2024 is an election year, so let’s hope the outlook then is much more positive than it is today!
Another important point in America’s chart is Chiron in Aries. Chiron is an asteroid named for the centaur that trained Hercules and other Greco-Roman heroes for their great battles. His presence points out an area that will return again and again for healing: in this case, that’s violence. Gun violence numbers in the United States wildly surpass those of other nations; yet, we can’t seem to let this go.
And so enter Chiron in Aries, making the Second Amendment the eternal dilemma our culture can’t seem to solve. Visionary Uranus transited the country’s Chiron in April and will do so again in December – so perhaps this will help us find a healing solution to the gun control debate.
In September meanwhile, Jupiter and the North Node in alignment with America’s Neptune and Midheaven in Virgo bring humanitarian efforts and the spiritual wellbeing of all people to center stage. If there were ever a time to see big victories for marginalized groups, this would be it!
Shortly thereafter, Jupiter moves into Libra – creating an exceptionally lucky aspect called a Grand Air Trine, with the country’s Moon in Aquarius and Mars in Gemini. The element of Air rules communication and logic, so this should help everyone keep a clear head and healthy level of detachment throughout the rest of the election cycle.
The Moon represents the inner subconscious world that we usually only share with those we love and trust. It can show us our needs and how we care for others—and as such, our Moon sign (where the Moon falls in our birth chart) shows the style in which we express this softer side.
Work out your Moon sign, when you do you chart for free here.
The inner world of the Cancer Moon sign is a gentle, vulnerable and emotional landscape. The Moon rules the sign of Cancer so she feels quite at home in this sign making it easy to fully express her archetypal nature. When we think of the crab itself (the symbol for Cancer), we see the hard protective shell on the outside but know there is nothing but softness on the inside. A small being that carries its sanctuary on its back so it can feel at home wherever it goes.
These themes symbolize the Cancer Moon sign. You can put on a brave face, but deep down you feel EVERYTHING. You usually cry easily and really experience the emotions of any particular situation or environment you happen to be in. This Moon is very in tune with its intuition, thoughts and feelings—so much so you sometimes forget that not everything is always about you. Being sensitive is great, until it isn’t and you become resentful and hide away in your shell. There is a fine balance to be found with the Cancer Moon sign.
Taking care of others usually makes you quite happy, but when it goes unappreciated or the care isn’t returned you can get quite hurt. And so Cancer Moons are often working on expressing their needs. Working on being vocal about this is really important, as you can get so lost in taking care of others that you end up with the short end of the stick.
Fear of getting hurt is very real for you for you, mainly since being hurt in love, for example, you may feel it more deeply than others. Honestly, unless you live under a rock, you will be familiar with this pain and what it can do to you. So this is a genuine fear, but not one that should stop you from receiving love.
Often times the Cancer Moon sign is associated with the mother, and rightfully so—since both Cancer and the Moon represent this energy. But not every Cancer Moon sign wants to be a parent. The mother archetype is actually about nurturing and caring for others, offering tender love and support, and this can be applied to anything in life. Your career, your pets, your friends, your home or your hobbies. You can channel this inner need to love into anything and it will be fulfilling, just as long as you let others love you back so there is a sense of balance in your life.
Below are some suggestion to connect more to your sweet Cancer Moon sign, and make the most of its intuitive expression…
:: ACTIVE LISTENING :: The Cancer Moon sign has a tendency to feel first when engaging with others. This can go badly if you what you intuitively pick up about someone is incorrect, which can shape the relationship in the wrong direction. You can get your feelings hurt because you feel you know what they “really meant.” But assumption is really dangerous, since it can lead to un-founded resentment which can turn into distance.
This can be easily avoided if you work on listening to what they are actually saying, rather than simply feeling into their energy. If assumption-based feelings occur take the time to ask questions to gain further insight. Use your nurturing nature to engage in a more open conversation. This way you aren’t incorrectly just reading (or rather feeling) between the lines.
:: SANCTUARY :: All Cancer Moon signs need a place to retreat. They need a space to feel safe and secure where they can let all of their emotions out without judgement. This doesn’t need to be an entire home or apartment either. It could be one room, or even a space within a room. Maybe a meditation pillow with a small altar if this practice speaks to you.
It could also be a certain location, such as your favorite park or beach. For some it could be a place from your childhood. The Cancer Moon sign can be very nostalgic so places that awaken happy memories really warm your heart.
:: NURTURE :: Find something to nurture in your life that isn’t another person. The need to express care is innate, but you can get burned out if this means attracting energy vampires. Needy people love the sweet lunar crab, for you will always try to help solve the problems they should be dealing with on their own. And so learn to be selective.
Finding a hobby that will reward your nurturing with feelings of worth and accomplishment is such a good idea. Think gardening, or cooking, working with animals, or becoming a beekeeper. What do you want to be good at that requires time, nurturance and patience? Find something that makes your heart feel good and you will bring some emotional balance back into your life.
:: INTUITIVE PROTECTION :: Being that you are such an intuitive, maybe even psychically gifted person, you need to work on protecting your energy. Otherwise it’s likely people will energetically take from you until you are totally drained. This can make you feel vulnerable in an unhealthy way.
Begin by taking time each morning to visualize yourself being cleansed by white healing light. Just a simple shower before (or even during!) your regular shower. Then imagine a bubble of light surrounding you, which people can only enter into when invited by you. It can be any color that you love.
These are your mental and energetic guards for the day ahead. You could also burn some sage in your space before your start your day or make a healing spray with essential oils to mist yourself with. Anything that creates an energetic boundary between you and the world will help.
Also, be present to when you feel depleted. What was going on? Who were you around? Sometimes the best defense is creating literal space between you and the people or situations that take advantage of you.
Above all, may you find comfort in your innate ability to be vulnerable—and use it to show others the strength in letting down our guard in a world that needs it more than ever before.
