Fire signs line up, Mars entering Sagittarius, Full Moon waxing.

As the new week begins, the month of November ends, and December and the holy days begin, here is where our Star, the Moon, and our planets reside. 

From Astrodienst Website: 

Sun Sagittarius 8/18’40" 21s41

Moon Pisces 23/53’31" 0n29

Mercury Sagittarius 3/57’53" 21s10

Venus Sagittarius 17/20’54" 23s09

Mars Capricorn 26/36’44" 22s11

Jupiter Leo 22/31’ 0" 14n42

Saturn Scorpio 27/22’57" 17s43

Uranus Aries 12/45’44"r 4n25

Neptune Pisces 4.51’29" 10s25

Pluto Capricorn 12/7’29" 20s40

True Node Libra 18/5’56" 7s06

Chiron Pisces 13/7’ 4" 2s12

At the very end of November looking ahead to December and the end of year holidays and energy, be aware the month begins with the Full Moon in 14 degrees of Gemini on December 6. This Full Moon in Gemini falls in the decan that is ruled by Venus and Mars. 

This Full Moon  is transiting the the decan of Gemini that represents overdoing it. When we overdo, expending too much energy without taking time to recuperate and recover, illness or accidents tend to happen. Slowing down, getting much-needed rest, and taking our

time with whatever we are engaged in is necessary at this time. Wherever the Full Moon in Gemini falls in your chart/life, exercise restraint, caution, and care to avoid allowing yourself to become totally driven by passions and desires.

This week as the Moon waxes to fullness, it transits Pisces, Aries, and Taurus. We feel the energy of water, fire, earth, and air emotionally, the full gamut of sensual and emotional energy. Venus in Sagittarius brings out a greater sense of universal love, and less focused on intimacy and intensity. Freedom and excitement are the hallmarks of love and relationships with Venus in Sagittarius. Less subtle and more outspoken, love is focused on truth and higher meaning.  The shadow side of Venus in Sagittarius is the tendency to hide our insecurities under a guise of restlessness or need for the ‘endless’ search for perfection, adventure, or the ‘right one’.  The shadow arises when we are not paying attention to what underlies our insecurities, fears, or unresolved issues. With Venus in Sagittarius along with the Sun and Mercury, Jupiter, Uranus in fire signs, Venus acts as the heart and soul of desire, determined to enjoy life with a passion. 

With Venus in Sagittarius, fueled by the other planets, and the Sun in fire signs and air, there is a strong desire to seek and find new ways and paths to follow without much discernment or discretion.  Just be aware. As I am writing this column on Sunday, Nov. 30, Venus forms a sextile to the North Node in Libra (the gateway between the future and the past). In general this brings about a desire to mingle and connect with others. Individually, this could signal some new path emerging in some area of your life. 

On Dec. 4, the same day that Mars changes signs, Venus forms a trine to Jupiter in Leo. This is a very powerful and lovely influence, bringing warmth, good will, harmony, and optimism. Note where this aspect takes place and which areas of your life and houses in your chart are affected.  For example, if Venus is transiting your 1st house, Jupiter is likely to be in your 9th house (depending on where house cusps fall). The influence of Venus and Jupiter would be in the areas ruled by the  1st and 9th house. Check your chart to determine how this influence affects you. (If you would like a chart drawn up and interpreted for you, contact me, Dr. Catherine Al-Meten at intuitiveinsight4@gmail.com). 

Through the Week:

Sunday, November 30. 

Today, the Moon changes signs in the late afternoon or eveing depending on your time zone. From from Pisces to Aries, the Moon is  opening us to more fire energy buiding in our lives. Sunday the Moon  sextiles Mars in Capricorn, making us feel the need or urge to take some action.  Later the Moon trines Saturn in Scorpio in Scorpio, awakening our imagination, intuition, and emotional sensuality. As the Moon enters Sagittarius later (8:15 PM EST/5:15 PM PST), we can expect to feel the energy shift. Just notice the subtle changes that occur around that time.  Later in the evening, Mercury in Sagittarius squares Neptune in Pisces (11:27 PM EST/8:27 PM PST). Confusion and other issues dealing with concentration and comprehension occur. Trouble following directions or for that matter a train of thought. If such a pattern occurs for you, avoid having to find answers, fix something, or work out the details of a plan. Avoid getting into arguments when this kind of transit is taking place; it is unlikely to be resolved until the struggle or dissonance has passed. Not a good time to do something that requires a clear mind. 

When squares occur between the planet of communication and messages, Mercury, and Neptune, the planet that rules the hidden, mysterious, imaginative, illusive, and unknown, there are likely to be issues with all forms of communications. It may, however, be a good time to observe how we react and respond during such transits. If we can simply observe ourselves as we deal with such energy, we might have some insight when the fog clears. 

Monday, December 1, 2014. 

The Moon is in Aries all day, making some nice aspects first a trine to Mercury at 2:16 AM PST/5:16 AM EST) and then a trine to the Sun later in the morning. Trines help smooth out rough waters and calm tempers. Trines also lend harmony to most situations. 

Mars sextiles Saturn in Scorpio at 11:01 AM PST/2:01 PM EST). Mars in Sagittarius sextiling Saturn helps us see ideas taking shape, plans coming to fulfillment, and goals reaching fruition. We may feel a greater sense of achievement or feel that our time and efforts have not been wasted. Settle into an established work pattern, and spend some time organizing and making your schedule more user friendly. Pull your energy inward, taking time to rest, nourish your body, mind, and spirit, and feeling the contentment from doing a job well. Use what you know about your own boundaries, limitations, and energetic needs to temper your use of time, resources, and energy (physical, mental, spiritual, psychological, and sensual). Traditional methods, good organization, and persistence pay off now

Tuesday, December 2, 2014.

The Moon remains in Aries today. During the  night  or early morning, Saturn in Capricorn forms a seisquiquadrate to Neptune in Pisces. (2:43 AM PST/5:43 AM EST). Your dreams or the first thoughts of the day, may awaken you to some esoteric awareness of some practical and pragmatic matter.  Saturn the Great Teacher, has been transiting Capricorn, turning over the ground for transformation and major changes. Uranus, in Aries, the Awakener, brings us sudden news, events, or shocking insight. Together these two are calling our attention to something that has been calling for attention and something that requires action. 

Mars forms a semi-square to Chiron in Pisces Tuesday early Tuesday morning. On the East Coast this might be during our sleep, further West, just after we wake up.  Watch your manners and words, as the say goes, “actions speak louder than words”. With this aspect, we are likely to get our feelings hurt or hurt someone else unintentionally. The rashness of Mars and the part of our life/chart where our wounds are still healing, meet in ways that bruise tender feelings or hurt us when we feel most vulnerable. Be nice. Be understanding. Forgive quickly, and move on. Tension builds as we feel a greater need for personal freedom and change. Finding ways to combine our need for freedom within a structure that nourishes and supports us is what  we need to do now. Fighting against the natural flow or refusing to see the need for boundaries, limitations, and organization, only result in wasted energy and unfulfilled goals and dreams. Get focused. Get directed, and provide the structure you need to live out your creative ideas. 

Wednesday, December 3, 2014. 

The Moon changes signs today, from Aries to Taurus (just past midnight EST, and just past 3 AM PST). We wake on more solid footing, emotionally, The earthy Taurus Moon lends a practical, grounded element to our emotional stability. It is also Mars’ last day in Capricorn, so the Moon’s earthy energy helps with the transition of Mars, providing an emotional bridge over whatever Mars’ transit through Capricorn has unearthed. 

Thursday, December 4, 2014.

The day begins with the Moon in Taurus and with Mars in the last few hours of Capricorn. Emotionally and action-wise, we may feel like cleaning up, clearing out, and finishing off what remains of projects, tasks, or unfinished business before Mars changes signs. 

Venus in Sagittarius trines Jupiter in Leo (mid-morning-early afternoon), that harmonious aspect discussed earlier. The Sun Trines Uranus just an hour before Mars enters Aquarius. We welcome change and receive good news.  This may also be when you discover the way you have been seeking to put an acceptable form of structure on your dreams and passions. The way is shone to you. Watch. Receive. Allow the Celestial flow of energy flow into your life filling up the dark places and nourishing the ground of your being. 

At 6:57 PM EST/3:57 PM PST), Mars enters Aquarius. From December 4 through January 12, Mars transits Aquarius. Mars, the planet of action, changes signs this week (Dec. 4) as it leaves Capricorn and enters Aquarius. As Mars leaves the place where it has been somewhat muted in earth energy, it  energy becomes more dynamic and erratic. Mars, the planet of action, is associated with transformation and Agni (the god of Fire and sacrifices). Mars is the messenger and the agent of the Sun, doing the Sun’s bidding. Allowing our Mars energy to push ourselves to take action or make decisions without careful thought, is one of the characteristics of a Mars transit through Aquarius.  Mars transits each sign for approximately two months per year, so  Mars cycle through all the signs is about two years, depending upon retrograde cycles which extend  its transits. 

Mars as Agni also represents our ability to process and digest (metabolize) all aspects of our lives.  Consider what was happening in your life, and how you were dealing with life the last time Mars’ transited Aquarius from January to March, 2013. Pushing our goals or agendas too far, can cause us problems. Use discretion in using energy. Avoid forcing the issue with yourself or with others. This flies in the face of how we may be feeling. The spirit of freedom is in the air. The desire to cast off chains and to release pent up energy is strong. 

Mars represents our will power and desire to move into action.  Aquarius, an air sign, brings inspiration and creative ideas. New ideas come through intuition, imagination, and inspired thought. The desire to do something new and different is strong now. The energy is strong; restraint and discretion is not. 

Mars in Aquarius triggers our mental facilities. One way to channel Mars energy is through movement, exercise, and hands-on activities. Group collaboration with a shared vision can be potent and viable at this time. Forming new alliances or changing the nature of current ones is favored now. The tendency during Mars’ transit of Aquarius is to draw outside the lines, break with routine, and discover new ways of approaching old challeneges or relationships. 

Greater independence may also be a strong element of Mars’ movement through Aquarius. The need to please, conform, or fit some preconceived expectation or image of ourselves is no longer a focus. Letting go of staid or stale aspects of thought, belief, behavior, or perspective is now a likely benefit. Whereas Mars’ transit through Capricorn may have given us time to be more deliberate and contemplative, its transit through Aquarius will find us a bit more detached and unconventional in our approach to solving problems or setting forth on new adventures. Where we might have focused on developing more controlled and disciplined ways of handing our business, the energy in Aquarius is likely to be less so. 

Friday, December 5, 2014.

The Moon changes signs early in the day, from Taurus to Gemini. The first signs of the waxing Full Moon in Gemini will be felt as the Sun squares Chiron in Pisces at 4:30 AM EST/1:30 AM PST. Dreams may be wild and edgy this night. We may become in touch with our shadowy insecurities and fears. Whatever blocks or keeps you trapped in the sense of lack or feeling less than, now shows up. It is now that we are called upon to learn to trust our own truth, intuition, and capacity for goodness. Our healing comes by learning to believe in ourselves, and to stop thinking that someone else has the answers we need. All the answers to our problems, challenges and needs can be found within. Learning to have faith in what we know to be the Universal Truth, is learning to listen to and acknowledge our gifts, talents, and abilities. Time to acknowledge our desires and to act accordingly, with faith, hope, and love. Know the truth and the truth will set you free from doubt, fears, and lack.

Later in the evening, Mercury in Sagittarius trines Uranus in Aries. A very benevolent aspect. Take the opportunity to accept invitations, attend gatherings, and meet with those who have something to share and offer. Bring yourself to the table, and be willing to give and receive gifts. Gifts of spirit along with tangible opportunities now come to you. Try out new ways of communicating or doing business, and step out beyond the ordinary to receive your blessings.  Intuition is very strong at this point, and intuitive messages or metaphysical and physical signs seem to drip out of the blue right into your lap. 

The Full Moon in Gemini also transits and aspects the fixed star Cursa (Beta Eridani). As the story of the constellation Orion is told by Jim Kaler, Orion, the Hunter is so important that he is accompanied by his two hunting dogs, but also has two footstools so he can rest. One is located in front of the constellation, the other is located behind it. The latter, forms the constellation Lepus, the Hare. Lepus, the Hare is composed of a box-like arrangement of four stars located  up and to the right in the night sky, just right of the star, Rigel (Orion’s left foot). Cursa, the brightest star just northwest of Rigel. 

Another legend says that Cursa is the source of the River Eridanus, the great celestial ocean stream that flows to the Southern Cross at the great southern star, Achernar. Cursa is one of those stars that over time has shown itself to suddenly emit great bright flashes, making it look like it sparkling.  This is thought to be caused by solar flares similar to our Sun’s. 

Astrological lore views Cursa as the source of the Celestial River, and observes: “Eridanus gives a love of knowledge and science, much travel and many changes, a position of authority, but danger of accidents especially at sea and of drowning.” With the energy of the Full Moon in Gemini, combined with all the fire energy of the plantes and the Sun, it is important to slow down, rein in impulses, and exercise caution. 

Later in the week, I will post a new article on this Full Moon in Gemini. Until then, notice the changing energy patterns, and prepare yourself for the awakenings that are ahead. 

Fire Power: Sun, Venus in Sagittarius, Uranus in Aries, Saturn changing signs

As we move into the holidays, it is time to slow down and take time to count our blessings. We are so fortunate to have the lives we have and the choices we have.  For me, I want to thank you for sharing time each week to ponder the movement of the Universal energy, and to check in to see what is moving in our own lives and what we can offer others in their journeys and struggles. Thank you all very much, and celebrate who you are, where you are, and whatever gifts you have been given to use in this journey of life. 

Words that came to mind as I wrote today include: perspective, fear, and courage. With that in mind, I share this week's Intuitive Insight column with you.

Winston Churchill once said, "Courage is what it takes to stand up and speak; courage is also what it takes to sit down and listen."
And the way to understand when to sit or stand is discernment. Astrology, one tool in the process of spiritual discernment, gives us some insight. We add this to our own knowledge base, our ways of knowing, and our personal perspectives, and we use it to help us live better lives. 

This week starts out under the influence of the New Moon in Sagittarius at 0 degrees on November 22. Just as the Sun enters Sagittarius, the New Moon was formed. The next few days will find us shifting our attention from the deep search we have been on to connect to others and understand ourselves on a deeper level. 

As the Sagittarius cycle begins, we move out of ourselves and our own interests, out into the world where we take actions to become more aware of the world around us and the needs and interests of others. 

Today, November 23, 2014, Chiron in Pisces turns direct after its retrograde back over old wounds, issues, and aspects of our lives these last few weeks. 

Now with Chiron moving forward, we make headway with renewed energy. We have probably resolved some issues that had been troubling us, as part of a way to clear up old issues and begin healing past hurts, injuries, and grief. 

As this is occurring in Pisces, look to the house that Pisces rules in your life and notice how you have been experiencing healing of past issues and old loves or grief. A celebration is called for when we have completed some deep work and found a way forward feeling lighter and carrying less of a burden of old issues. The shadow aspects don’t leave us forever, but they keep being acknowledged, dealt with, and healed, bit by bit throughout our lives. It’s just that when Chiron is in Pisces, the karmic and spiritual depths of the healing may be amazingly potent. How is this affecting you today?

Whatever steps we have been hesitating to take, now seem more likely and probable. Part of the reason is that the energy  of Sagittarius is mutable and active, and we feel more motivated and brave.  Taking risks seems less frightening that it might have over the last couple of weeks or months. 

As we are able to shift our attention from the immediate challenges, frustrations, or blocks (be they internal or external), we move with more confidence. The less we need to ‘know’ all the answers, the better right now. By that I mean, the less we depend on guarantees of the future or absolutes, the more will act out of a place of faith, trust, and inner knowledge that we are always connected to the Divine, and we are guided, protected, and in the right place. 

The less we give into our fears, or let our emotions build up as we try to control the circumstances of our lives, the better. Finding ways to deal with our emotional highs and lows is crucial to weathering the storms. Or for that matter, of appreciating and taking advantages of the gifts and opportunities that are ours already.

Perspective is a key element of this lunar and solar period.  Sagittarius is more likely to see the big picture. That in itself can be overwhelming, if we do not also take care of the day-to-day details of life.  

Part of our human experience is living the dance between being able to see the bigger picture and anticipating opportunities, probabilities, and challenges and seeing what is called for right now, right where we are. Paying attention to the subtle intuitive shifts, messages, signs, and hunches is key.  

Take time to rest enough and to have quiet time to settle your body, mind, emotions, spirit, and overall energetic being so that you are able to sense the inner messages. Use your practices of prayer, meditation, yoga, running, swimming, walking, or whatever you do to quiet your soul and body, so that you can be receptive.

Mercury is still in Scorpio, so the intuitive messages you are receiving during this time are still very strong. Listen, pay attention, honor, and acknowledge that you are given answers in very subtle ways. Sometimes through a chance encounter, or through hearing or reading something that touches you right where you need to be connected.  Often our intuition is simply a matter of trusting that we have the answers within us and if we don’t, we can ask for help.  Prayer can be one way of asking for Divine intervention. Or we may ask a friend or advisor for their support and assistance.

Julia Cameron, the author of the Artist’s Way, talks about having friends who act as reflective mirrors for us.  Those trusted friends and allies who know us or see us as we are, and who speak to our hearts and souls. These are the people we want to seek out to help us become more confident with our own perceptive powers. We want to avoid the poisonous playmates, those who subtlety sabotage us with their steady undercurrent of negativity, sarcasm, and ‘poor me’ mentality.  

This is a time to walk out guarded by the host of angels who protect and guide us, some of whom are among your ‘reflective mirror’ friends and associates.  Sometimes it is the stranger at the bus stop that sees us at the core of who we are. Sometimes we are that person for someone else. This is part of the gift of community, communication, and our interconnectedness. With Mercury in the last few days of Scorpio (until November 27), the perfect time is now to listen more deeply and to prepare for the awakening and journey ahead.

On November 27 (until December 16), Mercury will transit Sagittarius, bringing communications out into the open, lighting fires where fires need to be lit, and rousing us from the deeper, darker places into the search for light, meaning, and hope. As Mercury shifts energy, we move into the season of Advent, the period of hope and joyful expectations.

Venus just entered Sagittarius last week (and will stay there until December 16), infusing us with sensations that awaken our compassion, sense of brotherly and sisterly love for one another, and helping us feel lighter and more straightforward as we seek pleasure, meaning, and purpose as a means of expressing love. Venus trine Uranus on November 26 finds us ready to take giant leaps into the unknown. We welcome adventure, change, and whatever is just a little bit edgier than we might normally be.

Uranus in Aries brings surprises to us, and in this case, the surprises have to do with love, romance, and marriage. Feeling a sense of greater freedom, we may find we are more open than normal for the pleasures and surprises Uranus brings to our love lives.  After the initial burst of pleasure or surprising encounters, we may feel a little bit like a rabbit heading back to the rabbit hole to hide. With Venus square Chiron, the Wounded Healer, on November 26-27, we go into a protective mode as a way of protecting ourselves form unwanted or untimely commitments and offers. We may hesitate as we want to be sure that whatever we do is good for us on an emotional level as well as in many other ways.

Take time to stay grounded in your own being and content with your whole self.  Entering into relationships when we are out of touch with ourselves, is not a great idea. Seek first wholeness within so that what you offer in relationship is full, rich, and complete. This may be a bit of a challenge though as Mars and Venus are parallel at this same time, fueling the fires of passion. Venus sextiles the North Node (gateway to the future, promises of things to come) on November 30. We seek connection and we desire a full commitment of ourselves in whatever we are doing and in whatever relationships we are in.

Mars is still on its journey through Capricorn, having made a number of recent strong aspects. In Capricorn, Mars energy  is deliberate, persistent. We take in all sides of an issue, and consider our options, choices, and decisions with care. Mars in Capricorn is grounded, so our anger or other responses may be slow to grow. We may feel ourselves becoming distant or removed from troubling situations. It may feel a bit strange if we are used to reacting and responding more passionately. However, for the remainder of the transit (December 4), we can use this moderating transit to observe how our emotions operate when we slow our response time down a bit. The shadow side of this is becoming stubborn or rigid.  Just notice what is happening to you at this time, and note where Mars is transiting in your life and notice too how some of the recent Mars aspects may have triggered or sparked action or movement in different areas of life.

We are getting ready for a shift in Saturn’s energy.  Saturn has been transiting the deep, dark recesses of our psyches since Oct. 15, 2012. It will continue in Scorpio until December 23, at which time Saturn enters Sagittarius until June 14, 2015. At that time it will reenter Scorpio before heading back into Sagittarius from September 17, 2015 until December 20, 2017. That seems like a long ways off, however, if you think back two years and a bit ago to when Saturn first entered Scorpio, you will probably notice some trends and cycles that have taken place.

Being that Saturn is in the anaretic (last degree of a sign) of Scorpio, we can expect to be reminded on a very deep and spiritual level, of those unresolved issues, unfinished business, and connections to the past that are still having a profound effect on you and your life. This is a time for emotional, spiritual, psychological, and deep soul cleansing, clearing, and reawakening. From now until December 23, notice what is coming up from the shadows, reappearing from the past, or disappearing and leaving your experience.

On November 27, Ceres trines Uranus.bringing about a combination of the best of the old and traditional forms and remedies with the new, technologically and scientifically advanced tools and knowledge. Rather than forcing a choice between herbs or medicine, or the old way and the new way, we see a synthesis taking place where we are receptive and open to seeing how the best of both worlds can be combined for the good of humanity. The Ceres trine to Uranus, brings us some good news in this regard. We find ways that help us deal with pressing issues. The answers seem sudden and shocking, but the timing is perfect.

On Monday, November 24, Mars forms a quincunx with Jupiter.  This is one of those “eyes are bigger than the stomach” aspects.  In this case, it’s not food, but activities.  With all the strong mutable fire  we may take on more than we can handle while this aspect is in play. Walk a little slower than usual. Count to ten before saying yes to yourself or anyone else. Pace yourself, and take steps to use your energy in deliberate and thoughtful ways.

Tuesday, Mercury conjuncts Saturn in the late degrees of Scorpio.  We may get a message that has been long awaited, a situation may come to a head, or some other major piece of communication may take place. It is also a time when we can really focus our attention, and when we may finally get the inspiration or synthesize the ideas that have been floating around unattached for a while. With such a powerful inner up swelling of ideas and passions, we now see how to shape, form, create, or put together a piece of magic that has been gestating   for some time. A new project or job may begin. We may receive long-awaited news, or find the answers we have been searching for. We will probably have some intuitive and sensate signs to indicate what to expect. Pay attention to your senses.

On Wednesday, Mercury forms a semi-square  to Pluto in Capricorn. This may raise some doubts, fears, or other irrational thoughts. Notice what your fears point to. What suspicions need to be checked out, and which ones are baseless? It’s normal to doubt, regardless of the issue. Not all doubts are baseless, and not all fears are sound.  Notice what is bothering you, and wait things out. Give yourself time to sort through feeling, fears, doubts, and concerns. When in doubt, don’t.  At least temporarily. Give yourself and the situation time. No need to rush things.
On Wednesday, Mercury forms a seisquiquadrate to Uranus. Our minds are on fire right now, and it may be hard to pin things down or get things done. It is a great time to allow creativity to flow and to explore ideas and possibilities. However, it’s probably not the best time to try to sell the ideas or talk them out. Let the creativity and artistic juices flow. Channel them into something creative, even if that is just a list or a bunch of scribbles on a paper.  Explore, express, and use your senses to channel the energy into form or begin playing with ideas for a project, change, or adventure.

With Mars in Scorpio, I find my day dreams are full of artistic ideas, and nudges to tackle wasted space or cluttered areas of my office and home.  It’s a great dream time….day dreams, imagination, night time dream work.  Let the flow go. A very creative energy.

Venus trine Uranus on Wednesday. Uranus is Aries is like a child in a candy shop. Suddenly, the fiery energy is set off with the New Moon and the Sun’s passage into Sagittarius. As Uranus trines Venus, sparks fly. We feel open to passion, love, and adventure. In fact we hunger for what has been held back or denied. This works on all levels of what Venus rules: love, commitments, beauty, luxury items, peace, compassion, justice. A very creative time. Dabbling comes to mind. Sticking our toes in the waters of an inviting river. Feeling the first few raindrops after a long, hot day. A good time for dealing with technology, electronics, and mass communication. There is an ease and joy in working with groups who are in more of a relaxed mode than usually Seeing that this is the night before Thanksgiving in the U.S., this is good news. More enjoyment at holiday gatherings, less stress.

Late Wednesday night, the Sun squares Neptune in Pisces. Artistic and spiritual focus is favored. Relieve yourself and others from the pressure of too much scheduling, planning, or structure. Spend the day living as much in the moment as possible. Relaxed manner equates to less confusion. Avoid setting expectations for yourself and others. Chill out.

Overnight Wednesday/early Thursday, Venus squares Chiron. Unless you’re up late, this will probably happen during your sleep. Watch for dreams ot clue you in to how this aspect speaks to you. Signals a sense of insecurity, some fears or doubts about commitments, second thoughts. All normal responses during active times. Just notice what old wounds may trigger self doubt or suspicion.  What has happened in the past continues to be the boogie man in the room for as long as we fail to acknowledge its presences. When we meet a fear, face to face, we can identify it, and then unplug our energy from it.  Notice what you may still be hanging onto. What is draining your energy?

On Saturday, Saturn in nearly the end of its current transit through Scorpio forms a semi-square to Pluto in Capricorn. These two have been turning our lives upside down in an effort to help us make major transformations in our soul journey. Whatever power struggles, frustrations, blocks, challenge we may face at this time, seem to show themselves or make themselves felt at this time. It’s a reminder of how far we have come, what we have learned, and what we still need ot keep our eyes on. 

What are the major lessons you have been learning over the  last two and half years? Note your progress. Celebrate your growth and successes.  Honor the journey, and give yourself credit for all the battles you have won, all the hills you have climbed, and the joy you have discovered in being yourself. Enjoy your week, and celebrate life. It is a gift to be lived and treasured.

Anais Nin wrote, "Life shrinks or expands in proportion to one's courage." 

Be brave. Step out in your truth. Act on your dreams. Say what you think, and live according to what you believe.  Have a beautiful week, and when you meet fear along the way, tip your hat or curtsy, acknowledge it, and keep right on going.

New Moon in Sagittarius, Venus enters Sagittarius-Fire in the Sky

Red Sky at Night                                             Catherine Al-Meten

This week's lineup: 

16-Nov-2014, 16:15 UT/GMT/4:15 a.m. PST

Sun 24 Scorpio 13'21" 18s49

Moon 16 Virgo 22'15" 2n48

Mercury 11 Scorpio 53' 1" 1 4s07

Venus 29 Scorpio 51'11" 19s53

Mars 15 Capricorn 55'35" 23s56

Jupiter 21 Leo 50'32" 14n52

Saturn 25 Scorpio 43'34" 17s19

Uranus 13 Aries 4'43"r 4n32

Neptune 4 Pisces 47'56" 10s27

Pluto 11 Capricorn 44' 4" 20s40

TrueNode 18 Libra 46'47" 7s21

Chiron 13 Pisces 7'21"r 2s08

This week we feel the fiery energy increasing as Venus  and the Sun enter Sagittarius, and Mars makes a number of stress aspects. Inflamed passions as Mars makes so many hard aspects this month. On November 18 Mars forms squares to the North and South Nodes (gateways to the  future and past). The North Node at 18/46 Libra and the South Node at 18/46 Aries, represent the points of passage in our lives. The North Node, entry into what lies ahead, and the South Node, gateway to the past, the karmic ties, unfinished business, and unhealed, and unexplored elements of ourselves, are key points in our chart. 

Mars in Capricorn, having must formed a potent conjunction with Pluto the Great Transformer, now squares these two gateway points in our lives/charts. Whatever was triggered last week during the Mars-Pluto conjunction, now is energized and moved. How Mars steers the soul on its path now becomes more evident. Notice how you are being nudged in the right direction, and notice too how you can use what you’ve learned through recent experience, how to maneuver the challenges and unmarked channels ahead.

16-Nov-2014, 16:15 UT/GMT

Sun 24 Scorpio 13'21" 18s49

Moon 16 Virgo 22'15" 2n48

Mercury 11 Scorpio 53' 1" 1 4s07

Venus 29 Scorpio 51'11" 19s53

Mars 15 Capricorn 55'35" 23s56

Jupiter 21 Leo 50'32" 14n52

Saturn 25 Scorpio 43'34" 17s19

Uranus 13 Aries 4'43"r 4n32

Neptune 4 Pisces 47'56" 10s27

Pluto 11 Capricorn 44' 4" 20s40

TrueNode 18 Libra 46'47" 7s21

Chiron 13 Pisces 7'21"r 2s08

Inflamed passions as Mars makes so many hard aspects this month. On November 18 Mars forms squares to the North and South Nodes (gateways to the  future and past). The North Node at 18/46 Libra and the South Node at 18/46 Aries, represent the points of passage in our lives. The North Node, entry into what lies ahead, and the South Node, gateway to the past, the karmic ties, unfinished business, and unhealed, and unexplored elements of ourselves, are key points in our chart. 

Mars in Capricorn, having must formed a potent conjunction with Pluto the Great Transformer, now squares these two gateway points in our lives/charts. Whatever was triggered last week during the Mars-Pluto conjunction, now is energized and moved. How Mars steers the soul on its path now becomes more evident. Notice how you are being nudged in the right direction, and notice too how you can use what you’ve learned through recent experience, how to maneuver the challenges and unmarked channels ahead.

This is the week of the New Moon in Sagittarius. On November 22, at 12:32 p.m. GMT/4:32 a.m. the New Moon reaches its peak. The New Moon also aligns with Toliman, a star in the constellation, Centarius, the Healer. Also known as Bungula, Toliman is the third brightest star visible in the night sky. For those of us who awaken before sunrise, Toliman is visible in the early autumn sky. In the 1st Century C.E. book, Astronomica, written by Manilius, he says of the Centaur, “…indeed a calling of skill, not to wait for the cries of pain, but to recognize a sick body not yet conscious of its sickness.”  Centaurius is also known to impart the wisdom to help heal animals who are incapable of describing what they need to heal for human hearing. When Toliman is aligned with Mars physical endurance, considerable mental power is stimulated. Writing and speaking may bring little prominence, but there is great power in both the written and spoken word at this time. The message is to continue trusting the Divine push from within, and the answer to prayers spoken or not, that appear at just the right time. That Divine grace again, for those wiiling to accept and receive it. 

Venus is ending her annual journey through Scorpio, as she enters Sagittarius today, Sunday, November 16. In Sagittarius, Venus longs for adventure and awakens desire for seeking what lies beyond the ordinary. Between now and December 10, the need for freedom grows, and the desire to experience passion grows with it. Use discretion at this time, for the awakened feelings are powerful, strong, and not too picky. 

Venus is semi-squares Mars November 17-18 putting a great deal of tension on relationships of all kinds, particularly the most intimate ones. Our desire to meet needs meet challenges and create more tension. On the 18-19, Venus forms a parallel with Pluto in Capricorn ramping up the intensity in close relationships. Needs overpower reason as we become more and more insistent on getting what we need and want in the relationship area. This may mean we release ourselves from those relationships that are not running smoothly due to the fact they are not based on mutual needs, desires, and dreams. 

Our dreams, meaning those desires we hope to bring to fruition on this journey, are very important to us now. With Neptune’s direct motion over the weekend, we are even more conscious and aware of our deepest longings. And we are not about to settle at this time. On November 20, Venus squares Neptune giving us a reminder of how we tend to see what we want to see rather than what is really possible or present in a relationship. Potential does not necessarily result in actual movement of outcomes. Notice how you tend to fool yourself into thinking things are better than they are. Avoid setting yourself up for disappointment. 

Mercury in Scorpio is sextile Pluto in Capricorn today, Sunday, November 16, is a time when we seem to be more psychologically attuned to how our intuition, emotions, and desires work together. We have a window for looking below the surface and seeing what is going on with relationships, communication, and all forms of movement and interaction. Perhaps that Moon in Virgo helps us ground ourselves, and be more willing to examine how we do relationships, and what might need repair, insight, or greater clarity. In making plans at this time, we are capable of being more clear-headed and patient with our long-range plans, goals, and dreams. If we can have the ‘master’ plan for our dreams, and then maintain the ability to stay mindful and present with each step, one at a time, we will be more successful in the long run. We get overwhelmed when we stay focused too much on the whole picture. Once we have a plan, it is important to keep focused on one step at a time. Today’s sextile with Pluto and the Moon’s transit in Virgo, help us get ourselves in balance to do this today.

The New Moon on November 22, 2014 may be a challenging time for many. Exceptional circumstances occur to create disturbances and even breaks in relationships with women. The disturbances are created due to the desire of some to curtail the freedom and movement of others. Whatever secrets, bad habits, or unhealed wounds are driving decision-making or forcing others to fight for their freedom, are now more evident than usual.  Excesses (drinking, drugs, power) bring challenges during this new moon time. It’s as if we are in an argument with someone drunk with power and alcohol, who has lost touch with reason and compassion. In the end, there will be a positive outcome, however, having to bear up through difficult circumstances and amid power trips or stress-filled revolts and excesses, exhausts everyone. As Mercury is square Jupiter on Saturday, we might feel like hiding out. Waiting out the storm, and avoiding engaging in negative and thoughtless arguments is what is needed. This sets the tone for this lunar month, and reminds us that what we may fail to focus on or notice, lays just below the surface ready to pop out and remind us to exercise caution, protect ourselves, and take care of ourselves. Discernment in choices of intimate relationships is essential now. 

Since new moons signal beginnings and getting a new start, this new moon may be the perfect time to pay attention to what you need to eliminate from your life in order to live in greater harmony. If we choose to stick with dysfunctional forms of communication and interaction, this new moon may give you some insight and reasons to reconsider the kinds of choices you have made in the past. Is this really how you want to live? Is this really working in the areas of your life where you seek meaning, purpose, and fulfillment? If the answer is no, then what is holding you back from making a new start? What are you afraid of? What you are afraid of may actually be appearing right before you as the result of choices made. A new moon that enlightens us from within about what we are doing to sabotage or block our own way.

On Monday, November 17, Mercury in Scorpio forms a quinqunx to Uranus in Aries. This is a time of great uncertainty, and a time when we are apt to find it difficult to get our point across or even feel like we are understood on even simple matters. Rather than fighting the prevailing winds that seem to block progress, recognize that this might not be the best time to try to get your point across. Timing is not right for clarity and understanding.  Being impulsive or forcing an issue are not ways that work well right now. Back off. Wait for better timing.  And it comes shortly, when Mercury trines Chiron in Pisces. Chiron, the Wounded Healer, allows for more open communication, and for a greater willingness to listen and to hear with open hearts, minds, and eyes. 

Sensitivity and intuition is heightened under this aspect. This aspect as well as the earlier quincunx, occur in the night, so much of what we gather from these aspects may be worked out in dreams or are in the process of working their way to the surface of our consciousness as we sleep. Notice what is on your mind and heart when you awaken Monday morning. Mercury is going its work in the night, and unless you are awake, may be able to reach you without undue interference from you ego mind.  May find that you awaken with just the right words to share, or an answer to a problem that had hithertofore been beyond your reach. 

On Tuesday morning the Sun in Scorpio conjuncts Saturn. We feel compelled to deal with life on its own terms, and to take care of whatever pressing issues, concerns, and challenges stand in our way. Most of what is going on is internal. We want to get things accomplished and see the fruits of our labor.  Time to get down to work. Focus on developing a routine and discipline in order to organize your time, energy, and resources . Work on whatever aspects of an old plan or a current project need to be reworked, and then set about creating the space, time, and energy to get things done. Get plenty of rest, and let your discipline extend to how you eat (proper nourishment) and how you exercise (get up and move). The colder and darker it gets, the less enthused some may be about moving and getting outside. Still need to get some fresh air, and need to move. This will energize you to get the work done that means so much to you.

On Wednesday, the Sun semi-square Pluto in Capricorn may find us looking for ways to get more control over our lives, or may force us to gather all our inner resources to meet challenges and obstacles in our path.  We exert a lot of energy, and discover we are stronger than we thought we were. 

On Thursday, the Sun forms a seisquiquadrate to Uranus in Aries. Surprise, surprise, just when we thought we had a handle on things (like we control life), unexpected changes, upset plans or events, or surprising, in  a good way, news shows up. The old saying, “when one door closes, another opens” may be something to remember right now. Sometimes the object of our affection, that thing or relationship or victory, we think we can’t live without disappears, and opens the way for us to rethink our lives. We can see the disappointments, failures, or unrealized dreams as space for new ideas, new paths, and the approach of something that holds greater promise and fulfillment. Avoid wasting time clinging to the past or bemoaning losses. Look for the gifts in the garbage.

On Friday, Mercury sextiles Mars, and we might very well say, “Thank heavens!” Ideas come to us. We feel mentally alert and receptive. Choices now seem clearer, and communication improves. We feel enthusiastic and energized. What we struggled with earlier in the week, now flows with ease. 

Saturday, November 22, the Sun enters Sagittarius and the New Moon peaks. We feel a release of energy now. Whatever details or mundane issues might have held us down earlier in the week, are now easily transcended. Uranus in Aries forms a trine to the New Moon and the Sun, and this allows us to feel freer and more relaxed. While our dreams may be expanding and our plans growing, we may also overdo and feel the weight of high expectations and overwhelming excitement. 

Late Saturday, Mercury squares Jupiter. May feel like too much of everything is leading to burnout or overload. It is a time when we feel like we are short circuited, and thinking and actions are out of synch and foggy. Time to find calming, relaxing, centering ways to practice simply being present and mindful. Not a time to solve all the world’s problems. We might find ourselves feeling incapable of handling one more piece of business, or checking one more detail. Rest and recuperation is what is needed no matter how much energy has built up over the week. Take a much-needed break and tune out for a while. 

Neptune stations direct in Pisces: out of the shadows

Tonight (or in the early morning hours of Sunday) Neptune in Pisces stations and turns direct today after a retrgrade phase since June 9th. The retrograde phase has been in the dark recesses of subconscious and hidden parts of our unconscious. 

Neptune rules the imagination, fantasy, illusion, and intuition.  It also rules aspects of our lives that connect us through Universal consciousness. This weekend opens us to deeply imaginative and spiritual influences. Our senses become highly attuned to energetic movement and feelings. By late tonight and the early morning Sunday, Neptune’s influence will be felt on a very powerful level. More and more we feel open to the inflow of energy and the connection between ourselves and all that is.
Neptune in Pisces calls us to be more compassionate and empathetic toward others as we listen to the voices and urgings within us. It is a time of deep awakening, of learning and growth, and of expanded mental, emotional, spiritual, and esoteric energy.  We are receiving a great influx of informtaion, and are now less hazy and confused, and more self assured and confidant of our spirtual and intuitive gifts. It is a vital time for paying attention to how we are given nuanced signs, spiritual messages, and how we define and decode the menings and messages of dreams, visions, and gifts in the challenges we face.

The Message of this forward motion of Neptune is urging us to live out our dreams, and for intuitive urgings and signals that it is time to move out of the shadows into the light of clarity about what we dream of and are meant to discover. Dreams become a reality. Any self delusion we have experienced, dissolves and is released now. Not only do your dreams signal change, hope, and and release from delusion, subconscious fears, and confusion over hidden enemies. We may feel that we suddenly see and feel the truth of ourselves and of situations that may have been perplexing you.

As the changes take place, what you have learned about the deepest stirrings, fears, blocks, and challenges during Neptune’s 5-month retrograde phase.  The awakenings and need to face our deepest, darkest secrets and struggles, has enabled us to learn so much about our discernment process. We have experienced a prolonged period of powerful energy stirring us below the surfaces. Now we can use what we have learned to propel and guide us forward.  Clarity, meaning, and a deep-knowing now ground our spiritual being solidly in the present and in the areas that are most affected by this transit.  

Look to the house where Pisces lights up your chart, at the water sign houses, and at all the other areas of your life that are aspected and affected by Neptune in Pisces. Keep track of your dreams, and notice where your intuition sheds light on areas of challenge and

Venus and Mars: Relationships Highlighted this week

November 9-15. 2015

Sun 17 Scorpio 13' 5" 16s58

Moon 21 Gemini 42'46" 18n33

Mercury 1 Scorpio 6'32" 10s01

Venus 21 Scorpio 7' 4" 17s33

Mars 10 Capricorn 39' 7" 24s29

Jupiter 21 Leo 17'21" 15n01

Saturn 24 Scorpio 53'53" 17s07

Uranus 13 Aries 17' 2"r 4n36

Neptune 4 Pisces 48'39"r 10s26

Pluto 11 Capricorn 33'54" 20s40

TrueNode 18 Libra 59'44"r 7s26

Chiron 13 Pisces 11'39"r 2s04

(From astrodienst.com)

The lunar highlight of the week is the third quarter square of the Moon on Thursday. Right now we are still bathing in the light of the Full Moon in Taurus from late last week. The third quarter square signals a time to wrap things up, let the lessons of this lunar month sink in, and temper emotions with actions and spiritual practices to maintain grounding. 

Neptune (Pisces) square to Ceres (Sagittarius) on Saturday, November 8, may have sent some into a deep or strange place mentally and psychologically.  If using distractions or substances to cope with emotions and spiritual duress and challenges, it may have felt like you were off center and/or out of control. Today, it may have felt like you had a mental or spirtiual hangover when you woke up. If you used the challenges of ‘deep thought’ and strange awakenings to your advantage, you may find you have some interesting new pieces of artwork or writing started, or have some new ideas and possibilities beginning to break through a previously blocked mind.  

It is necessary to treat yourself with tenderness and care now. Notice the physical effects that your life is creating in your physical being.  Chronic or surprising aches, pains, or physical symptoms, are signals pointing us towards where we are overextending, ignoring, or fighting our own optimum health. Just notice, avoid judging or rationalizing. Notice, lick your wounds, and move more slowly and let grace bring healing through being open enough to receive it. Squares, in astrology, trigger action, movement, or focus. Neptune focuses our attention on that which cannot be seen, that which underlies and is at the heart of the matters that are moving within us. Notice what that is for you, and relax, get some rest, and take a much-needed break.

Mercury has moved into Scorpio after heading back direct this last week. A great relief or release now is probable. Like the calm before the storm, we may have been so used to the lethargy or whirlwind we’ve been caught up in, that we have forgotten that change is inevitable no matter how entrenched in behaviors, patterns, habits, or unflexible thinking we have been.  

On Monday, November 10, Mars conjuncts Pluto in Capricorn, at the cusp of the 2nd decan of Capricorn. Major transformation, already under way, now is activated by Mars. Pain, sorrow, and all that has been held deep within, under pressure and underground transformation, now bursts to the surface. A time of deep feeling and awareness, we may feel melancholy, or we may find ourselves acting out in melodramatic ways, those repressed desires. The drama in our lives now is within, but is ready to burst open on the surface. Channeling this energy into creative, artistic, or otherwise productive areas is a positive way of using this energy. Denial of pain, repressed grief, sorrow, or anger, can no longer afford to stay underground or ‘in control’. However, to avoid projecting our own pain and unresolved issues on others, it is necessary for us to recognize what the source of our feelings is and to use the energy to take some positive steps, make some positive changes, and acknowledge what needs to go. Our health and wholeness depends on our willingness to face what is.

On Tuesday, November 11, Mars squares Uranus. Mars square Pluto is moving out of its tight alignment, so there is easing of some pressure. However, Mars square Uranus is causing some fireworks and upset.  Similar to what had been going on with the Grand Cardinal Cross the last few months, the Mars-Uranus square. What is emphasized with this alignment is risk taking, explosions, adrenaline-seeking actions, meeting emergencies, and electrically-charged exchanges.  The main message of this powerful transit is “Wake up!” 

Whatever has been below the radar or out of alignment, now is made clear and demands attention. Notice where Aries, Cancer, Libra, and Capricorn are in your chart, and if one of these signs sits on your Ascendent, be prepared for transformation, the phoenix rising out of the flames. In a dream I had this week, I dreamed I was trying, unsuccessfully, to resusitate some babies. A pretty frightful dream, but one very indicative of final stages of certain areas of one’s life, endings of aspects of one’s personality and/or lifestyle, or some major transformation in a person’s life.  With Libra in the last degrees sitting on my Ascendent, this dream cast light on the deep, transformative movement that has been going on within for quite some time. 

One way to test this out for yourself, is ask yourself the questions you need answering, and see what rises up from your intuitive and subconsiousness. We hold the keys to our own transformation within, and if we are willing to listen and act, we are constantly being led towards our highest good. What do you know to be true about yourself, the way you are living, and what you want to do or change? “Seek and ye shall find, knock, and the door will be open. Ask and it shall be answered.” This is a spiritual truth that does not depend on what makes sense to you and your plans, but is right below the surface waiting to lead you forward. Between now and the next New Moon, spend some time asking the questions and seeking the answers you need. Trust your Higher Power, the Divine, and know you have God’s messengers with you, angels and guardians who support and protect you through each step you take.

On November 12, Venus is conjunct Saturn in Scorpio, inflaming passions, and creating a climate when kissing and making up may fuel burned out desires.  Venus and Saturn in Scorpio focus our attention on how we love, who we love, and what we seek through our connections with  those we’re in intimate relationships with. This placement also awakens our sense of values and inner purpose and our connection with beauty, peace, and love combined. The disruptive impact of Mars (in earthy Capricorn) keeps the watery Scorpio planets (Venus and Saturn) shaken into the very depths of identity, connections, intimacy,  intuitive knowledge, and creativity. What happens on the earthly level sends shock waves deep within the psyche and soul. It is awfully difficult to ignore our passions and purpose. 

Today as I write, Venus in Scorpio squares Jupiter in Leo. Fire and water create steam or water puts out fire. It’s all energy. How we use it, determines the outcomes. We are overly focused on what we lack and the consequence, what we desire. If I’m exhausted,  what do I require? If I’m lonley, what do I long for? If an idea is not quite ready to unfold, what can I do to expedite the expression? Whatever we need, we desire now, in greater proportion to our needs. Individual feelings are strong right now, and listening or understanding another’s needs are secondary to understanding and meeting our own needs. Not a good time to question or second guess intimate partners, but definitely a time to notice what your true feelings are. The source of your needs lie within you, not within someone else.  Our partners and mates have their own paths to follow; they are not our own. 

On November 12, Venus conjuncts Saturn. Relationships become more grounded and stabilized. The emotionality of the earlier part of the week, seems less volatile. While some may try to sweep old problems under the carpet, this is a time when the truth will come out. We come into contact with experiences, people, or conditions that remind us of who we are and what energizes and brings us satisfaction. Problems in relationships that are off track or are not satisfying, will become even more evident. We feel a sense of urgency to rid ourselves of unhealthy, unproductive, and already dead or dying connections.  Again, resusitating a dead baby, indicative of letting something precious and alive go, but not for lack of trying to save it.  At a certain point, we discover some things are not worth doing, saving, or holding onto. If some part of us had died, we would know to let it go. Same thing is happening with relationships, connections, and commitments we are leaving at this time. We must be passionate about whatever gives us life.

Venus semi-square Pluto on November 13, has jealousy and envy raising their heads. Be alert to any place in your life where these two emotions may have a hold on you. This signals our own inadequacies or self doubts. What is it within that feels threatened?

On November 11, Mercury trines Neptune activating both intuition and imagination. This is a very creative time, and a time when listening within is valuable. Meditation, prayer, contemplative activities, and any sort of sacred truth seeking is indeed a good way to use this energy to focus intentions, and more importantly, to listen to what you are being called to do, be, or understand. Creative expression is favored highly.

On Thursday, the Sun in Scorpio squares Jupiter in Leo. This transit brings with it a sense of discontent, restlessness, or ennui. There may also be a tendency to get trapped in the “I want, I need…more”, thereby fueling our intentions to extremes.  We tend to lose track of ‘reality’ when we let our fantasies take us too far back or forward in time with longings and achings fueling our sense of lack.  As one of the beautiful young men in my Yoga and Mediation group for autistic adults said last week, “I want everyone to pray that people be more satisfied with what they have now. To 

not always want more.” Beautifully put, and that is the message of this particular aspect, and indeed, the message of staying present in who we are, where we are, on our journey in life. 

Venus ends the week with a semi-square to Pluto, again reminding us that whatever we continue to repress or try to hide from ourselves or others, has a way of coming out in decidedly ugly ways. Watch for hidden agendas, passive-aggressive behavior and communication, and people (including ourselves perhaps) reacting out of fear, unresolved anger, unfulfilled desires, and unhealed wounds.  Whatever has become part of us that needs to break up and be transformed, is focused right now on how we give and receive love, and how we define and understand what love is. Live with purpose, and be not afraid to face the truth of who you are, what you need, and what your passions point you towards. It is right that we be happy and in positive, healthy relationships. To do so, we first have to be happy and healthy within.  Take good care of yourself. Connect to the sacred within you and to the Universal Divine power that lifts and satisfies your soul. 

Full Moon in Taurus, Uniting Polarities

Full Moon Vision                                                Catherine Al-Meten

November begins as we enter through the portal to Celtic New Year. A time when cultures and traditions worldwide celebrate different holy days, it is a time when many culturs honor the dead. Transformation and change, a part of each and every life, is the nature of our life on this dynamic and beautiful planet. As we move into the darker, cooler seasons in the North and the warmer ones in the South, we all make adjsutments on our journey. November is a month to remember change and movement are permanent aspects of our nature and journey.

On Thursday, November 6, the Full Moon peaks at 14/26 Taurus. In the week preceding, the waxing Moon transits through Pisces and Aries. Look to this triad of house/areas of your life where the waxing Moon awakening you emotionally. According to the Old Farmer’s Almanac, the name for November’s Full Moon (so-named by the Algonquin Tribe) is the Beaver Moon or the Frost Moon. In the Northern Hemisphere, the November Full Moon arrives just after Sanhaim, the Celtic New Year. 

At this time of the year, the seasonal changes become more marked, and Earth’s inhabitants prepare for winter. Beavers, who live in streams, rivers, and ponds, begin to cover the lodges they have  built to protect from predators and the elements.  Fall is the time for building and repairing dams. The expression, “busy as a beaver” probably arose from watching the aquatic animals preparing for winter in autumn. At the same time, it was a time when hunters set their traps.  What are we doing to prepare ourselves for changes? How are we adapting and taking advantage of the gifts of the season? How are we honoring, celebrating, and finding meaning and purpose in our lives?

The Full Moon is always a time of polarities-Taurus Full Moon in opposition to the Sun in Scorpio-calls us to unite oppositional qualities and traits present within ourselves and innate with Life itself. The Moon in Taurus reminds us of our earthy, pragmatic, and peace-loving nature and our desire to make our lives reflect  beauty, order, and practicality. The Sun in Scorpio reminds us of our deeper, more complex and profound nature, and our need to discover what lies beneath the surface. This full moon is one of the richest, most creative ones of the year. As we approach the Full Moon, let’s look at what we are bring to fullness.

After last months two eclipses (Lunar and Solar), and Mercury reflective retrograde cycle, our lives have been forced to focus on our Achilles Tendon.  A big believer that our biology reflects our biography, I have noticed with myself and with just about everyone I know, that our live, indeed our very bodies, have forced us to look at what we need to alter in order to be healthier, more creative, and authentic. We are, after all, energy bodies, and our physical bodies are affected by everything-emotions, internal and external conditions, physiological, psychological and mental health and well being, and environment. And let’s not forget, behavior―habits, patterns of thought and belief, and belief itself. What does your energy tell you about who you are and what is going on in your life right now?

To begin with, notice what part of your body has been most affected and has demanded your attention this last month. One friend’s eye was injured (6th Chakra-intuition), another hurt her ankle and neck (1st and 5th Chakras). I spent a week in agony with intestinal problems (1st and 2nd chakra issues). Several people have talked about trouble with migraines or tooth aches (5th, 6th, and 7th and chakra issues. The connection between the energy centers of the body and any imbalance, upset, or weakness, is not only a sign of some other type of imbalance but also of the connection between how we live (Taurus) and how we feel (Scorpio). 

My point is, pay attention to whatever may have been bothering you or whatever you have found challenging. Notice how the challenges or issues are calling you to notice where you are fighting against yourself in some way. Oftentimes, I hear people say things like, “He’s a Scorpio and I’m a Taurus-we can’t get along” or She’s an Aquarius and I’m water, a Cancer, and we just don’t see things the same.” The point of using astrology is not to isolate ourselves from those who are different and only go with those who are the same. The value is to see how we have elements of everything and everyone within us. To unite the polarities, to synthesize differences within us, is the gift.  We are ‘both-and’. 

Using the example of the 6th chakra, how can noticing how an injured eye can help us unite diversity within? What happens when we cannot use one eye? As a life-long astigmatism gal, I can tell you, the eyes compensate and support one another. If we can’t see well, what do we do? We slow down. We adapt. We adjust our vision by moving closer or looking at things from different angles. We wear prescriptive lenses or we do eye exercises-or both. If called for, we have the eye repaired. The eyes, our tools of visual perception, are really run by something much more magical and powerful than the optic nerve. What we perceive is affected by how we are thinking and what we are focusing on. The 6th Chakra, Ajna, is the eye of perception, imagination, intuition, and visualization. Adjusting the way we pay attention to this chakra, is bound to change if we are more intentional, quieter, and more reflective. How do we learn to trust our intuitive senses when our physical ones are impeded in some way?

A future article will look more deeply into how we can use our understanding of astrological influences to help us better understand our chakra/energy system and body-mind-spirit-emotion connections.

The Full Moon on November 6 falls on Almach in Andromeda. This is the same place that the October 8 lunar eclipse fell. Almach was released. Whatever energy was released in you at that time, is what has been rising up demanding attention. Some of it may not have felt good. And it certainly was probably not appearing as you expected or would have liked it. Nevertheless, that energy is speaking to you now. Look to the areas in your chart/life where this Full Moon is affecting. Using your perserverance and ambition, you now have the determination, stamina, inner strength, and patience to work for that which inspires you. Almach at this point of Taurus promises “honor, eminence, and artistic ability”. Taurus also rules the throat and neck, so using our voices and keeping our head in balance will help us maintain a sense of harmony in ourselves and in the way we live our lives. 

Neptune in Pisces squares Ceres in Sagittarius on November 8. Mercury is still in the shadow zone, though finally moving forward. The mystical and somewhat off-kilter energy of the Neptune-Ceres square, could indicate the misuse or potent reaction to any experimentation with mystical substances or practices. It is a time when the veils are thin, and when we are particularly vulnerable to influences we do not understand. Using our best and highest spiritual practices, and grounding ourselves with sane and sound support and guidance is crucial. Avoid experimenting with drugs or substances that are aimed to alter or change perception. Notice that you are already galvanized and energized in areas that require you to be thoughtful, reflective, and pragmatic. Any shamanic practices should focus on grounding in daily proactive and routines of simple, earthy ways to handle rising awakenings, memories, and insight. 

Patience in and through adversity is what is needed at this time. We need to continue learning how to live within challenging circumstances and conditions. We are learning to  align ourselves within the challenges and struggles to make our way through to the other side. With Pluto in Capricorn moving into alignment with Uranus in Aries and Chiron in Pisces, we are entering a period which lasts until mid-February, 2015 when we need to actively, purposefully, and patiently engage in working out whatever difficult feelings, situations, conditions, are blocking our way. This is a time when we gird ourselves with a willingness to not only stand in our truth but to see the truth of what is happening. Being willing to face the truth is what is needed now. Acting with conscience, authenticity, and congruence is needed to meet the challenges, to complete the journey. 

This month may be a time when we feel a sense that nothing we have done has been good enough or has resulted in what we hoped to achieve. Especially with regard to spiritual practices and spiritual connections, we may feel we are not in alignment, not connected, or not ‘getting it’. This month is bound to be one of fresh perspectives and renewal. It is a time when we feel renewed or faith filled. We begin focusing more on letting go and releasing ourselves in the surrender to the Divine, and less in holding onto or trying to manage our lives as a backdrop to some spiritual ideal. Being present, being open and receptive, and then being dutiful to the voice of the Divine as it touches each of us, requires eyes willing to see and hearts willing to receive. 

Pluto, Chiron, and Uranus are trailblazers, clearing the way ahead for those who choose the path. In a recent dream I had, “I saw a huge line of traffic on a large super highway. The traffic was jammed up, and people were getting out of their cars fighting, arguing, and making the whole situation worse. Together with my allies, I got out of my car, and found a path through the green fields that was barely used. In the dream, I was starting on a new path, and knew only that I had companions with me for the journey, and that the  journey was in fresh, untrodden territory through on a beautiful path through the woods.” For me, this dream represented, among other things, a need to depart from something that was blocking, challenging, and not going anywhere. There was no movement, yet I had the freedom and the insight to get out and move on. What is Pluto, Chiron, and Uranus clearing from your path? Where are you making transformational change, and what messages are helping you determine what is next, required of you? 

Oftentimes, when we go through such transformational periods, we are living life that looks very much like it did yesterday and the day before. Quite rightly, we are often called simply to adjust our attitude, change our perspective, as we discern and learn what lessons right before us. What is this situation, relationship, or condition showing me about my own growth, development, and process as a spiritual human being? French journalist and novelist once stated,"plus ça change, plus c'est la même chose”, an expression that gets translated, “the more things change, the more they stay the same.” This reflects the understanding that what appears to be the same (an experience, a relationship, a cycle, a pattern), has many of the same ingredients. What makes the difference, what deepens a love, or expands an idea, or changes our attitude or perceptions, is something that transpires within our souls and within the simple choices of will we make, let go of, or in some way accept. Watch and see how the start of November awakens you to your own journey. Attitudes, beliefs, understanding, and the deep inner sense of consciousness is what is going through the most radical changes right now. Let go of whatever perceptions, fantasies, expectations, or ideals are no longer true for you, and notice how you are being called to a new level of awareness, understanding, and deepening. 

At the Full Moon in Taurus time, notice how the inner critic harps away at how unfair things are or niggles you to gripe, complain, or feel sorry for yourself―all signs of resistance to change. The Full Moon in Taurus can be a wonderful invitation to embrace new perspectives, be open to new opportunities, and heaven forbid, time to put your prayers where your heart is. Time to be honest with yourself about what you want and need. Time to surrender yourself to the Divine and to trust that when you do, you will receive. And when our prayers are answered, then the real work begins. We often stay whining and complaining, at the starting gate, waiting for something that is ours simply by acknowledging we are ready to take the next big step forward in growing, and receiving our next mission. What is coming is this. There will be countless new opportunities coming your way. Will you be willing to see them? Will you be willing to take the chance, even if you don’t feel ‘ready’? It’s up to each one of us to accept the Divine gifts we are constantly being offered.  Oftentimes this is because gifts require change, movement, and shifts, and they sometimes entail loss, letting go, and healing. We mistakenly see loss and change as something to fear. This month will give us wonderful opportunities to grow in how we learn to accept Divine good. 

Mercury’s straightforward movement and entry in Scorpio, enables us to be more sensitive to the intuitive communication. We begin to integrate the deep emotional insight of Scorpio with the pragmatic connections of first the Taurus Moon and then Pluto in Capricorn. We begin making connections, seeing how one small piece of news or a flash of an idea, do lead to others and form the intricate web of truth we so fervently seek. The Truth is within us, it is all around us, and it is there for us to access at will.

From now until it’s peak o November 10-12, Mars is forming  a powerful conjunction with Pluto in Capricorn. This brings active energy into whatever we have been preparing for for quite some time.  This “might makes right” combination can be tempered with understanding how power and energy needs to be used for choosing life and not choosing death. Watch this area of your life now, as it has been building up since Pluto first entered Capricorn several years ago. Whenever Mars moves into conjunction, it brings action and movement. What is moving and what is ready for putting motion into this area of your life? 

As Mars conjuncts Pluto, Uranus also  squares Pluto-a violent combination, it can be. especially for those with planets and aspects in Aries, Libra, Cancer, and Capricorn. Look to these four areas of your life to see where this powerful energy is most likely shaking things up. 

Venus in Scorpio, trines Chiron in Pisces on Nov. 2-3, providing new insight into love-related matters. Now is a good time to listen to your own heart, and ask yourself what drives your passion and need for love? How are your passions being affected by the life you are living? As Venus trines Chiron, we have a chance to heal from wounds and breaks, and from illusions and obsessive expectations. 

As Venus and the Sun are now parallel during this time, we long for harmony and fulfillment. It is a time when we feel great and deep affection for others. On November 3, when Venus forms a quincunx with Uranus in Aries, we may feel the urge to splurge. This aspect brings with it, impulsive urges.   

Take time to reflect this week, and slowly move into greater harmony, bringing a balance between deepening desires and daily living and spiritual practices. Be at peace as much as possible, within, and see each moment as a point of focus on the great journey of life and love.