This July 4, Colin Bedell and Bess Matassa take a look at at the U.S. birth chart, as well as the message of the country’s 2018 solar return and its forecast in the tarot …
Human beings aren’t the only subjects gifted with astrological birth charts. The moment the ink dried on the Declaration of Independence in Philadelphia on July 4th, 1776, the astrology of The United States of America was sealed …
:: THE U.S. BIRTHCHART :: Rising: Sagittarius // Sun: Cancer // Moon: Aquarius // Mercury: Cancer // Venus: Cancer // Mars: Gemini
At her best, the U.S. embodies the highest expressions of Cancer energy: deep love and protection for the home, and reverence for the family. With a lucky, Jupiter-ruled Sagittarius Rising, American spirit can be kind, contagiously optimistic, and generously available.
Pair these with an independent Aquarius moon, and you’ve got streaks of intellectual liberation and equality-seeking. After all, it’s important to remember that in 1776, a government for the people and by the people was nothing short of a radical political experiment that repudiated the aristocratic and monarchic political paradigms! Her Mars in Gemini helps enshrine this self-government experiment in words: “We hold these truths to be self-evident …”
Of course, the highest expressions of these energies don’t always manifest. From the defensive, hypersensitive Cancerian nature, to her “admit no wrong, thou-must-not-disagree with me” Aquarius gone dogmatic Moon, it’s on us to recognize these blinds spots and work to elevate her potential.
Looking at the current political climate, it’s clear this shadow work is far from done. But the U.S. has always been a nation of dualities. When the Founding Fathers wrote, “All men are created equal” in the Constitution, they themselves were slave owners.
But this country has been working to actualize her enlightened principles since the very beginning. As she completes another turn around the Sun, may we remember and commit to follow in the example of those who fought for abolition, who fought for suffrage, who fought for civil rights, who fought for peace.
With Sagittarius Rising and an Aquarius Moon, idealism and humanitarianism pumps through the veins of the U.S. The work is to recognize that seeking higher ground necessitates moving forward with utmost integrity, humility, and grace.
U.S. Tarot Birth Cards: Temperance & The Hierophant
The divinatory blend of energies that makes up the U.S. foundation in the tarot conjures images of road-tripping, public libraries, and the wide-open capacity to truly free our minds and let the rest follow. These two cards show the country’s cosmic mission is to tow the line between ideological leadership and overblown zealotry, and to learn exactly when to turn hardened beliefs loose to let them mix and mingle with a higher law.
>>>
:: THE 2018 SOLAR RETURN CHART :: Rising: Cancer // Sun: Cancer // Moon: Aries // Mercury & Venus: Leo // Mars: Aquarius
It’s a glowing cosmic BBQ for the U.S. this year, with the country’s Solar Return Chart emphasizing sparky Aries and glittering Leo energies. The message? To come at the unknown with a generously unguarded heart, and to check any unconscious impulses to use muscle to get the solutions we want at the door.
These fire signs demand creative integration of the masculine principle, and with Mars currently retrograde in electrically innovative Aquarius, the medicine is to radically renovate our concept of the “yang” in all its flavors. When can a push become the first move towards a hug? What would shift if every action came from a place of giving rather than merely doing for doing’s sake?
As Cancer hits the collective Ascendent, we’re also being challenged to dissolve borders like never before, and invite in nurturing of the self and others in service of creating the sanctuary spaces we’ve long imagined.
>>>
U.S. Tarot Cards for 2018: The Fool & The Emperor
This year’s U.S. tarot forecast poses questions about proportionality, and how the country takes up space in the world at large. The Emperor wants us to remember that acting as majestic protectors is most glorious when there’s nothing to prove and no trace of self-righteousness. And The Fool enters the collective consciousness to spark 180s and diving board leaps into new ways of being. The country is called to recapture an innocent sensation of free-wheeling exploration, where curiously releasing the need to know it all can reignite our sense of adventure about what the world at large can teach us.
>>>
Colin is a literal Gemini Twin Astrologer from Long Island, New York, a passionate student of A Course in Miracles, and a graduate of Parsons School of Design. Discover more about his work at QueerCosmos and follow him on Instagram.
Bess is available for private readings and astro-themed events. Follow her on Instagram and connect with her at bessmatassa.com
The 2017 Libra New Moon asks us to clarify our awareness, witness what’s out of balance, and let ourselves fully see the illuminated path towards change, says Sandra Sitron.
New Moon :: October 19 2017 :: 3:12pm EST :: 26 degrees Libra
Crimson, vermillion, and pale pink. A flamingo stands in a marsh, deftly balanced on one leg. Soon, the bird dozes off, nestling into flame-colored feathers, becoming even more balanced as consciousness fades to sleep …
This Libra New Moon is a balancing act. As the only sign of the zodiac that is a machine (not an animal or person), Libra shows that when the scales are equally weighted, harmonious stillness is the automatic result.
In the focused silence of this moon, we find out what areas of our lives need calibration. The relationships that are off-kilter. The life areas that may spiral out of control if left untended.
This process may feel overwhelming. So slow it down for a second. Take a deep breath of relief. This New Moon is not trying to add another thing to your to-do list. This New Moon does not need you to “get it together.”
For those of us who are always working hard to stay balanced, this might seem strange. It’s the paradox of this New Moon, especially when the Moon’s opposition to Uranus, the Great Awakener, shows us where harmonious stillness does not abound.
But watch the flamingoes. Curiously, the birds are more secure in their stance when they are balanced on one leg. It’s a more stable position! The act of balancing requires less effort.
While balancing might seem like more work, once you have achieved it, everything becomes easier …
>>>
New Moon opposite Uranus A million leaves fall from the trees, dancing yellow shapes fluttering through the air. The clear outlines of the trees are revealed in the autumn, the season of reflection and processing. Reflection results in clarity. Why do we need to have clarity now? Why can’t we continue in the dark?
Moon opposite Uranus tells us that there is no more time to not see. This is the time to break open into awareness. What needs to come into balance? What needs to change in the old systems? What are we ready to revolutionize?
Anything out of balance must fall away.
>>>
New Moon inconjunct Chiron Peeling back the layers of the onion. The revolution isn’t going to happen without digging up the old wounds. This aspect isn’t easy but hop to it anyway.
Let yourself be ready for change. Let yourself be ready for balance. Remember that you are on a journey and this is one phase. This is another moment to peel back the onion of personal and collective healing. Don’t stop now. The old way is no longer comfortable.
>>>
New Moon conjunct Mercury and Jupiter A visit to the oracle. Mercury is clarity and Jupiter is assistance. We are cosmically supported in our revolution towards greater balance and harmony.
Ask yourself, “What do I need to see that I’m not seeing?” If you have to face buried feelings, thoughts, and patterns that are holding you back from effortless balance, summon Jupiter’s support.
Engage in self-care practices like meditation, yoga, breathwork, EFT (tapping), self-hypnosis, art-making, journaling, and connecting with supportive advisors and friends.
Jupiter is bringing in boundless energetic support, so meet him halfway!
>>>
The study questions below are to help you get deeper into what the 2017 Libra New Moon means for you. Use them as journal prompts. For the most accurate reading, look to which house holds 26 degrees Libra in your chart and use the question for that house.
Aries or New Moon in the 7th house How can you be more giving AND ask for what you need in your relationships?
Taurus or New Moon in the 6th house What is a quick and easy change you can make to create more balance in your health?
Gemini or New Moon in the 5th house If you could take a reading of your personal “laughter meter,” would it be Low, Medium, or High? If it’s too low, what can you do to bring more joy into your life?
Cancer or New Moon in the 4th house Imagine your most supportive friend. What insight would they give you about an issue in your life?
Leo or New Moon in the 3rd house Curiouser and curiouser. How can you be more intentionally curious? Instead of going down the internet rabbit hole of unintentional clicks, how can you actively learn in a way that is invigorating?
Virgo or New Moon in the 2nd house What affirmation will remind you that you are safe?
Libra or New Moon in the 1st house How does meditation help you find balance? What is the best form of meditation for you right now?
Scorpio or New Moon in the 12th house How can you practice connecting with your intuition this week?
Sagittarius or New Moon in the 11th house When was the last time you remember being very open to change? Is there something from that experience that can help you now?
Capricorn or New Moon in the 10th house What will it take for you to realize that your diligent work is amounting to something?
Aquarius or New Moon in the 9th house What is your personal mission statement?
Pisces of New Moon in the 8th house What are you ready to clear from your life?
Want more wisdom? Book a reading with Sandra here.
The 2017 Aries Waning Quarter Moon asks us to step up our game, and prepare for some serious cosmic upleveling. Get invigorated. Get motivated. And be ready to get your world rocked, says Jennifer Racioppi … Artwork: Bethany Harper-Walsh
:: Waning Quarter Moon :: July 16 2017 :: 3:25pm EST :: 24 degrees Aries
While the Waning Quarter Moon usually signals a time to take an inward glance, in the fiery sign of Aries, we’re asked to kick into high gear. This energy bestows vitality and motivation. Holler!
The first sign of the zodiac, Aries is ruled by Mars (the planet of action), and is famously known for its ability to initiate. Add Mars squaring Uranus to the mix, and we need to ready ourselves for change- perhaps even shocking and sudden change …
As we wrap up this current lunar cycle, and prep ourselves for a month with TWO Leo new moons ahead—including the August 21 legendary Great American Total Eclipse—we have a moment to unravel all that unfolds before our eyes, and simultaneously get ready for what’s to come.
Harkening back to the New Moon in Aries on April 18, 2015, we may see intentions set then coming to a full culmination now. Beautiful! Results that culminate now have been a long time coming. Stay grateful and on-point and you won’t be disappointed.
>>>
:: The Sun :: With the Sun traveling through the third decant of security driven Cancer, connecting us to our home life, our family, and our deep emotions, it’s time to dig deep into our inner wellbeing and ultimate security.
Given that the Sun recently opposed Pluto, we just survived massive intensity. The Sun represents all that is light, our identity, and our vital force energy; Pluto is the dwarf King of darkness, holding close to him all things related to death and rebirth, transformation, and destruction. This transit likely brought about a crisis of self-esteem or self-identity, and may have felt entirely out of your control. But this energy also contained the essence of resilience, and the potential for positive growth and change, initiating you into a new way of being.
With this aspect no longer at play, we’re a bit more free. Yet the Sun and Mars now squares Uranus, the planet of revolution and change. Hold onto your hats, Numi babes—this abrupt roller coaster ride is a cosmic upleveling that may land you exactly where you need to be. But, not without a bit of wind in your hair …
:: The Moon :: The Moon in Aries feels inspiring—especially given the hit from Uranus. And who doesn’t crave action and locomotion in their lives? With Saturn in a super supportive angle, we can move in the direction of reconciliation, despite the challenges at hand.
:: The Square :: With the Sun at the tail end of Cancer having just opposed Pluto and on its way to square Uranus, the word “ouch” comes to mind. Cancer, a sign that represents family orientation and sensitivity, doesn’t particularly like this challenge much.
However, like it or not, the cosmic menu has served up a plate of emotions with a side dish of surprise. With the Moon in a cardinal sign squaring both the Sun and Mars, we’ll find ourselves needing to reconcile precisely where we are at as we prepare for the first of two new moons in Leo!
:: The Message :: With the recent hits from Pluto, and next week’s Uranus square, life’s #noteasy. Yet with the Sun in Cancer, these transits help us understand and unearth our confidence and security. We can handle this!
With the moon in action-oriented Aries, I highly suggest making moves during this phase. Move things to completion. Effort appropriately on behalf of your goals. Get your ducks in a row. When the Moon squares Uranus the following day, you’ll want to be on your A game.
Get ready to handle anything, and you’ll be grateful you did (cause “anything” might just be coming!)
For more Moon wisdom or to book a coaching session with Jennifer visit Jenniferracioppi.com. To learn more about how to work with each Moon phase, check out Moon Club, our community of cosmic creatives and lunar lovers!
The longest day of the cosmic year, Summer Solstice 2017 is your time to strip it down and skinny dip straight back to your roots, say our resident Numi astro babes Danielle Paige, Jennifer Racioppi, and Bess Matassa …
5 Ways to Activate the Summer Solstice 2017 Energy Right Now! *And make sure to read on for our resident astro babes’ full breakdown of this cosmic event …
1/Go Skinny Dipping: This Solstice asks us to get deliciously stripped down and dip into our private lives. Whether you choose to risk taking the plunge at midday with friends or go solo at midnight, celebrate slipping back into your own skin and connecting with your internal world.
2/Throw a Slumber Party: Celebrate the longest day of the year by pulling an old-school all nighter. Break out the hot rollers and face masks, and channel those nostalgic Cancer Season vibes with Old Hollywood classics, high school yearbooks, and prom pop.
3/Spend a Spa Day with Your Patron Saints: Ruled by the Moon, the Solstice asks us to connect to our feminine progenitors, whomever this means to you. Who has held you close? Who has tenderized your heart? Who have you bowed down at the altar of as a f-ing serious force of nature? Honor those people, whether it’s with an elaborate spa day or a simple, home-cooked brunch.
4/Become Your Own Summer Lover: Light the candles, let the R&B jams play, and deck yourself out in a luscious romper and sky-high wedges. Get nocturnal with yourself- figure out exactly what turns you on in your most private moments and romance yourself with that.
5/Refuel Your Fantasy Life with a Blockbuster: The Solstice marks the Sun’s entry into the sign of Cancer and this little mermaid’s energy is all about the creative force of our fantasies. Whether it’s Wonder Woman or a juicy, romantic beach read, celebrate the unbridled potential of your inner visions by getting whisked away by fantastically real tales of heroism.
The Solstice helps us to define time and get in touch with the sacred rhythm of the Universe. It marks a point of transition from one energetic phase to another and as this is the longest day of the year, more light means more consciousness.
You’ve spent the last 6 months (since the Winter Solstice) in a yin state … lots of rejuvenation, inward processing, and clearing. Now, it’s time to open up and shine your light!
Visualize a seed being planted at the Winter Solstice. After the fertilization process, it grows into a beautiful flower and opens its petals …. THIS is the energy in the air …. Ahhh yes, well hello there!
Moving forward, honor the fullness and richness of life that is tangible to you right now. The more you can honor this, the more you move into your heart space, which is how you attract your desires to you.
To find out more about attracting your desires and working with your karmic energy to find your purpose, you can connect with Danielle here.
With Eclipse Season just around the corner in August, use the Solstice and Cancer season to get grounded, connected, and clear. The New Moon in Cancer will follow this the Solstice by just two days, and it’s time to initiate new intentions, have fun, and enjoy those summertime vibes!
At the exact moment when the Sun enters Cancer, the Waning Crescent Balsamic Moon in Taurus connects with Venus in Taurus. This fortuitous and auspicious alignment in the Solstice chart indicates that the seasonal shift bestows gifts of bounty. The Moon rules Cancer, is exalted in Taurus, and Venus, Taurus’ ruler, is dignified in this position! To compliment this even more, the Moon forms an exact trine, a supportive angle of manifestation, to powerhouse Pluto.
We can expect this piercing and luxurious alignment to ground us as the Sun reaches his zenith, and we prepare to enter the season of Cancer. Cancer, a sign that loves to connect deeply with those it loves, opens the doorway to nourishing our connection to close friends and family as we reach into our roots for more safety, security, and abundance.
For more Moon wisdom or to book a coaching session with Jennifer visit Jenniferracioppi.com
>>>
Bess Matassa Skinny dip straight into your own heart
What does midnight feel like in your soul? This Summer Solstice, it’s time to dim all the lights, strip it down to bare, beautifully bio-luminescent skin, and take a naked plunge into your heart’s most private spaces …
With Neptune Rx and the Sun and Mercury entering little mermy Cancer on the same day, this Solstice is a water queen’s dream. But this isn’t the treacherous undertow of Scorpionic and Plutonian storm surges. This salt-kissed Solstice is a homecoming invitation to wash gently, yet fiercely, back onto our own shores, to remember where we’ve been, and to let everything that’s lived in our heart-shaped lockets and treasure chests give us the strength to jet-ski into the future.
So burn out the bulbs and turn on the sea sparkles. Click your heels three times and bring it all the way back home. And trust that you carry your home on your back, nomadic hermit-crab style, because you belong absolutely everywhere and always, to yourself …
Summer Solstice Mantra: I bow at the altar of my most tender night moves. Theme Song:The Commodores’ Nightshift Style: Bond Girl Ursula Andress meets Dorothy on her way back to Kansas. Sweetheart necklined one-pieces, gingham print hot shorts, tan halters, stacked raffia wedges, coral and emeralds. Flavors: Nocturnal snacks and homecoming helpings. Think nightshade fruits and veggies, cardamom-infused milks, and hearty, family-style pasta dishes.
Want more juicy cosmic insights and sensory explorations? Arrange an astrology reading or private event with Bess here or follow her on Instagram.
