Full Moon in Pisces: the Muses' Moon, Venus-Mars conjunct, and Dancing out our Dreams

In the night sky during August, Saturn has been the shining light in the night sky. Though the faintest of all the bright planets, it has been prominent as all the other brighter planets have been hiding in the glare of the evening or have been visible only in the twilight hours of morning.  The meteor showers have been highlighting the night sky, making bright and active displays throughout the month.

Venus has been disappearing into the sunset, Jupiter too is lost in sunset's glare. Saturn has been easily visible in the evening sky all August. The waxing of the Full Moon in Pisces is visible during through this week. The August Full Moon in Pisces at 6/6 degrees in the Pisces decan. conjunct Neptune in Pisces and Saturn in Virgo conjuncts the Sun in Virgo.

A Full Moon of the Muses, a time to absorb the blend of potent energies. It is also a time when we are ultra sensitive and vulnerable, feeling everything with greater intensity than usual.  We are open to receiving and sensing what others around us and/or close to us are experiencing and feeling. Be alert to absorbing others’ pain and discomfort. Avoid using alcohol or drugs to numb you to what you are feeling and sensing. This Full Moon is revealing to us, that which we have been attracting to us. It also shines its light on that within us, our lives, and our experiences that have been growing, building, and coming to fruition.

With the Moon conjunct Neptune in Pisces at exactly 6 degrees and in opposition to Jupiter in Virgo at 3 degrees conjunct the Sun in Virgo at 6 degrees, this is a very auspicious and powerful full moon. Called the Grain Moon, this moon is referred to in ancient Medieval literature as the Place of Hidden Treasures. The Full Moon peaks at 11:35 A.M. PDT on August 29. Full Moons are always shining their light on whatever is coming to fullness in our lives. This Full Moon sheds light on how we are balancing our need for the patterns and routines of our daily lives, personal health and hygiene, and organization and structure (Virgo-ruled issues) with creative vision, intuitive understanding, and our spiritual health and unconscious energy and connection with the Divine. This Full Moon activates the hidden treasures of our inner being and brings us abundance and blessings from what we have already created and are bringing forth into form and life.

The Sun has just entered Virgo (August 23), and is enabling us to focus on the details and independent parts of our lives. We begin handling our business, our artistic endeavors, our relationships, and our own personal behavior and health (body, mind, spirit, emotions) in a more systematic, direct way. We can now tend to unfinished business or we receive the information, details, or necessary parts to put bigger projects into their final draft, into motion forward, or into the next stage of development. What needed to fall away, has either been taken from you or you have seen fit to give up on whatever is not life-giving in your life. Regardless of how the clearing has taken place, a new realm of freedom, emptiness, and space has been created. Now is the time, during this Full Moon to openly receive the blessings that are meant for you to receive. I recall many years ago learning how to clear space in my life, and then set out a simple request in the form of identifying a desire or stating clearly, a need. And then learning how to release the desire or need, and simply let what is mean to come to me, to come. Often what I desire or need comes to me, but more often than not, in a form that I had not anticipated.

Be open to receiving the blessings coming to you, especially at this Full Moon. Use the mantra, “I am receiving my good, I am receiving what is best for me, and I am grateful for what I am receiving.” With gratitude and openness, receiving blessings on this Full Moon allows you to recognize the hidden treasures that are coming to you at this time.

Mercury has been in Virgo since August 7, and will stay there until Thursday, August 27 at which time Mercury enters Libra. During the Virgo transit we have received numerous types of communication, reminding or revealing to us, what it is that we need and desire, and what it is that is ours to receive. Listen, pay attention to, and open yourself to greater awareness on all levels, of just what the recent communication you have been receiving has taught you about who you are and what is opening up in your life.

On Thursday, just two days prior to the Full Moon in Pisces, Mercury moves into Libra, the planet that rules, love, beauty, and relationships. Along with our own passionate nature, the world within and around us is lighting up sending flames and sparks in all directions. Being receptive at this time will be easier than it might ordinarily be—we can barely budge without receiving the abundant and energizing force of the waxing Full Moon and the building conjunction between Venus and Mars. When the Moon conjuncts Chiron, the Wounded Healer, also in Pisces in a day or so, be prepared for a sudden and shocking change or announcement. Notice how something suddenly appears or disappears, and be ready for surprises related to whatever has manifested during this Full Moon in Pisces. Watch your dreams, and pay attention to the hunches and intuitive nudges that come your way. Allow yourself to be open to the visions of a better and brighter future, and remember all that has led to this moment.

Nothing has come about simply due to chance; what is manifesting now has taken time, hard work, necessary changes and alterations, and sacrifice of what is worn out and unnecessary. Embrace the life-affirming essence of your life, and drink in the sense of freedom and openness. Be discerning, as a matter of principle, in all relationships, and trust your inner knowing and own sense of truth to guide you. Be mindful of how the Divine infuses within us, an awareness of our strength, power, clarity, and own knowledge, so that we have what we need to enter the next stage of life. Let go, and release the need to control, figure out why, or second guess yourself. Be at peace with who you are, where you are, and know how capable you are to do what needs to be done. Be mindful of how supported and loved you are, and take off the burden of needing to be ‘right’, accepted, or understood in order to function. We each define ourselves, and in so far as we allow others to control or define us, we hold back on our own power and we abuse ourselves unnecessarily.

Be kind, to yourself, as you are to others. Be gentle and understanding, to yourself, as you do with others. Be loving and tolerant of who you are now and where you are now, just as you are with others. Sometimes we are nicer and more understanding to others than we are to ourselves. Now is the time to honor ourselves as the perfect reflection of the Divine, and know that what your job is it to be that perfect self, growing, learning, and courageously being.

Letting go or surrendering to the Divine will of the Creator is all about trusting the pervasive power of the Sacred that permeates everything; every atom, every core fiber of our being. That Sacred has been working in and through you from time immemorial, and continues to do so in each and every moment. Breathe in, and receive the blessings. Release and let go of whatever needs to go on the breath of love, compassion, forgiveness, and understanding.

Another powerful aspect is the conjunction forming with Venus and Mars in Leo. At the Full Moon in Pisces on August 29, Venus will be at 15/32 Leo and Mars in a building conjunction to Venus will be at 13/21 Leo. Venus the planet that rules receptivity and opens us to the nature of love and beauty in our lives and Mars, the planet that rules action and passion. Both Venus and Mars in the sign of Leo, create a firestorm of inspiration and energy fueled by these two planets. Coupled with the energy of the Full Moon and the opposition of the Moon to Jupiter and Sun in Virgo, makes this one of the most dramatic and deeply profound Full Moons of the year.

Neptune is in its ruling sign, Pisces, and has been preparing us on a deep, emotional, intuitive level for receiving some very positive and uplifting results, news, or benefits. This Full Moon in Pisces conjunct  Neptune  also opposes the Sun in Virgo which is conjunct Jupiter. The Pisces Sun called the Full Sturgeon Moon and the Full Grain Moon, symbolizes the coming to fruition of plans, dreams, and whatever has been building up in the area of artistic energy, romance, beauty, and creativity. A major step toward peace and fulfillment is certain to become manifest during this Full Moon time. Wi

This is indeed a powerful time. Let all your beliefs, practices, and actions reflect the sublime energy that is coursing through our lives at this time. Allow yourself to forgive yourself and others, as a step toward greater freedom. Allow yourself to honor that which is being born and borne in you and your life. Whatever is happening now is helping free you to be you.
Divine Love is within you, and guides, guards, and unfolds for you, all that is needed, desired, and revealed for your greatest good and highest wisdom.

Leo-Virgo energies growing: shifts and transitions and lunar aspects shake things up

As we near the end of the first week of the new lunar month, we approach the first quarter square between the Sun in Leo in its anaretic degree, 29/23  and the Moon at 29/23 degrees of Scorpio. Being that this square at this particular degree signals a crisis of some type, you might be noticing a building up of energy that is calling up some basic issues and needs from within you. As first quarter squares often reveal areas where blocks, challenges, or delays occur, this might be a time when you are beginning to see how you may need to make some adjustments.  Notice where 27-30 degrees of the fixed planets (Taurus, Leo, Scorpio, and Aquarius)  fall in your chart. These areas will give you an indication of where your life is facing the challenges of the lunar cycle. On Saturday, August 22, the First Quarter square occurs. Also notice where 0-1 degrees of the the Mutable signs (Gemini, Virgo, Sagittarius, and Pisces) fall, for this is where changes are manifesting for the future. Seeking perspective is the name of the game at this time. Avoid getting overly upset or emotionally distraught about the little details and temporary set backs. Look instead at the bigger picture, and appreciate how whatever is falling apart is making room for a new shape, path, or form to begin.

Mercury in Virgo from Aug. 7-27 provides some clarity and groundedness to all forms of communication. Ways open, doors appear where there seemed to be no opening, and information flows more freely now. In one of its ruling signs, Mercury is comfortable in Virgo, and as such we feel more centered, in tune, and clear about many areas of our lives. Projects, communication, and details that seemed overwhelming prior to this time, now flow more easily. You are able to wrap up the pieces that have been hanging on, weighing down, or getting in the way of clear communication. Move on with projects that need tending to. Be wary of becoming too critical or aloof. Clarity of thought needs to be tempered in conversation so as not to come across in too harsh a manner.

Early Thursday morning (August 20) Mercury  Virgo opposed  Chiron, the Wounded Healer in Pisces. My male tomcat woke me up, bringing  a curtain and several items on a shelf above my bed, down onto me. The items that fell included an angel and a sea shell. Symbols of Venus and a message from Mercury.  Last night in meditation, I suggested we each listen for a question to rise up—a question that is of importance to us at this time in our lives. And then to watch for, listen for, and notice what kinds of symbols, signs, messages, and guidance showed up in the next few days. My sweet tom cat woke me to play, and has been wanting to lead me on a chase all morning. The angels, symbolizes God’s messages, Divine guidance, and the seashell, the life force, the ocean, and the depths of consciousness. Mercury opposing Chiron allows for us to get stronger than ever messages and signs as well as the guidance or knowledge we need for discerning what is calling us to do, be, or understand. I also had a dream that I was serving the Queen of England a cup of hot tea, and that there was a spice scattered all over the table beneath her cup. I was concerned about the spice but thought it would be rude to blow the spice away, so I served her tea and ignored the spice. Now that’s going to take some time to figure out, but obviously something about protocol, serving a higher power, and the spices of life. I think that gives me a lot to think about…all that and it’s not even noon.  A bit later, Mercury also made a stress aspect to Uranus in Taurus. This aspect brings about some sudden news, information, or a bit of enlightenment, an ‘aha’ moment that puts things into perspective. Notice what occurs to you or happens around this time.

The Moon shifts from Libra to Scorpio on Thursday, and then makes some heavy aspects with some of the major players throughout the day. This should trigger deep emotional stirrings. A stress aspect to Chiron, signals some deep grieving, mourning, or other type of repressed emotional need. We may feel weepy for no apparent reason, become melancholy or giddy for much the same reason. Just notice what kinds of feelings rise up during the day. These feelings may help indicate where healing is needed or is taking place. Tonight, the Moon in Scorpio square Mars in Leo. That can signal a pretty signigicant upset or encounter with male energy. Honor your personal sense of space and guard yourself, protecting yourself from any harsh or negative energy attacks. Avoid going overboard emotionally at this time. Seek a sense of safety and serenity, and avoid using anything that will lower your protective barriers. Practice meditation, read uplifting material, listen to uplifting music, and seek to make your evening as  peaceful and relaxing  as possible. A bit later the Moon will make a stress aspect with Uranus, so allow yourself to notice how your own emotions, perspctive, and practices can change and direct your own energy and healing.  Focus on healing, health, and wholeness.

Venus in Leo (July 31-Oct.8) is a key influence in our lives right now. Retrograde until September 6th, Venus is making some beneficial and benevolent aspects in our lives/charts right now. Today, August 20, for instance, Venus in Leo trines Uranus in Aries, a powerful and potent aspect bringing with it unexpected and shocking news, encounters, and opportunities. Whatever is happening at this time is full of fiery, rich, abundant expressions—expressions highlighted in our romantic lives, in the development of relationships, and in our understanding and growth in all things related to Venus—love, beauty, pride, and passion. At this time, we seek and need validation for who we are and how we are able to both give and receive love. Any gaps in our love life, missing pieces of our search for beauty and creative outlets, will now become more and more important. The spotlight is shining on the areas in our lives where we have identified lack, need, and desire. Whatever we have been needing or craving, can appear in some form that may upset our traditional views. We find love coming to us in strange and new disguises, and from places we might have forgotten even existed in our lives. Release any negative thoughts, stereotypes, or patterns that keep you from receiving the highest and healthiest forms of love and artistic inspiration. Let things go a bit, and see what is standing in front of you at this time.

Venus focuses our attention more on the romance and idealism of love and relationships, and in some ways, this is where we get stuck in our idea of what a loving relationship entails. We get drawn into giving up part of ourselves to please another, or get drawn into accepting what someone else wants rather than honoring our own needs. Now is a good time to observe just what drives and compulsions are operating in your life. How are relationships affected by unhealed, undeveloped, or misguided perceptions? During the Venus-Uranus trine (Aug. 18-20), we began to see how we might step out of our familiar patterns and be more open to approaching love in a different way. We may begin to see how our own needs have changed, and how our ideal relationship may have changed as well. What we once sought, is no longer intereting. In some ways we may have outgrown or grown through a certain phase of life. What we needed to learn, develop, or discover has changed. Be aware of what feeds and nourishes your desires at this point. What inspires and drives your dreams and visions?

Once Venus moves out of the trine aspect with Uranus, the two planets become parallel to one another. A parallel aspect allows for more openness, as well as a more accepting and tolerant attitude about love, relationships, and creative expression. We may also notice that along with more openness comes a bit of insecurity. We may feel more vulnerable and hesitant now as well. Focus on developing friendships now, and let love grow. Focus on taking small steps toward trying new styles of art, expression, and creativity, allowing for growth, learning, and discernment. It’s time to dabble. Put your toes in the water, and take your sweet time moving into anything very deeply. Wait until you feel less hesitant, less fragile, and more healed before jumping full force into any new intense relationships. Avid overcommiting until you have determine where you truly want to go and how you want to travel in any new venture.

On Friday, August 21, the Sun in Leo forms a seisquiquadrant to Pluto the Great Transformer in Capricorn. We may feel like we need to protect, control, and otherwise manipulate things and people, and even our own ideas, in order to maintain balance in our lives. This is exactly the wrong approach now—this aspect may rock our boats in such a way as to force us to rely on heretofore undiscovered resources within ourselves. Notice how your first inclination to act or react is hampered or challenged, and seek direction for accessing deeper, more powerful elements within. We may be forced to fight back in some way or to take a new path in the direction of that which we are seeking. The path before us changes abruptly, and we have to be able to adjust to the changes and move on.

And as if that weren’t enough, the Sun in Leo squares Saturn in retrograde Scorpio. We are challenged in a deep and profound way right now. We meet something within that is the root of what is blocking up. Until September 17, Saturn, the  Great Teacher, continues its retrospective retrograde transit through the depths of Scorpio—the unconscious, inner depths of our being. The energy of the Sun in the anaretic degree of Leo (last, critical degree of a sign), is now focusing our attention on that which stands to challenge or block our way. At the same time, we are discovering the resources we have for combating and overcoming obstacles in our way. At this time we become more and more aware of how we have fought the good fight, risen to the occasion, and discovered the aplomb and tenacity to surmount challenges to our progress towards our goals. We may come to a sobering awareness, that we are truly responsible for what unfolds on our path, and that no one and no thing can walk the path we are on for us. We may awaken to a deeper, more profound sense of identity awareness, or we may slip into old patterns and feel thwarted on every level . The choice is yours. Sooner or later, we face the person in the mirror and identify who that really is.

Mars in Leo also forms a quincunx wtih Neptune in Pisces on Saturday. This aspect may lead to some lazy thinking or inappropriate actions. Avoid slipping into negative patterns. Avoid mishaps and protect yourself from accidents and missteps in movement, decision making, or timing.

At 1:42 PDT the Sun enters Virgo, ushering in a period of serious interest and focus on work, health, and service. A time when we bring ideals and visions into focus and seek to manifest them in their very real, every day, practical application in our lives.  This is the time when we take our big dreams and our expansive visions and plot out a course, step by step of bringing them into reality. Pragmatic, organized, hardworking, and a stickler for details, the Virgo Sun helps us get down to earth and to work on making dreams come true. Take small steps and begin doing now.

New Moon in Leo: Let Your Light Shine

As we move closer to the August New Moon in Leo on August 14, we find the Sun also in Leo. On Tuesday the Leo Sun is at 19/7 degrees. The Moon is in Cancer, and will be in Leo by Friday. Mercury is at 7/25 Virgo, and Venus is in her retrograde phase in Leo at 24/53 degrees. Mars is in 2/2 degrees of Leo. Jupiter entered Virgo on Tuesday, August 11, and is at 0/8 degrees of Virgo at the time of this writing. Saturn in at 28/21 degrees of Scorpio, Uranus is at 20/23 degrees retrograde Aries. Neptune is in retrograde motion at 8/56 degrees of Pisces. Pluto is at 13/25 degrees of Capricorn, also retrograde, the North Node is retrograde a 1/47 Libra, and Chiron is retrograde at 21/33 degrees of Pisces.

With a number of planets in fire signs (4 including the Sun and Moon), three in water signs, and planets are slowly moving into the earthy energy of Virgo (Jupiter and Mercury). By August 15 the Moon will be in Virgo and  by August 23, the Sun will enter Virgo. The New Moon in Leo is at 21 degrees in Leo’s third decan. This decan and aspect signifies the Divine Right of Kings, and rules Mars. In Greco-Egyptian mythology, this aspect represents the Resurrection of God; the Divine coming to life within the material world.

This New Moon in Leo demands that we acknowledge the authority of your emotional truth. Any attempt to avoid your own emotional and spiritual truth is a betrayal of the worst kind. It is vital that you use the energy of this New Moon in Leo to honor your own gifts, take pride and care of your gifts, talents, and desires, and defend your right to live according to your own values, beliefs, and inner truth. This is one time when honoring your emotional truth is necessary and crucial, especially in terms of your leadership position.


Earlier this month, on August 2, Saturn stationed direct in Scorpio, and will be working its way back into Virgo next month. Now, in the late degrees of Scorpio, we continue our review of whatever lessons we have been processing over the last few years. There was some tension and stress caused by a yod between the Sun in Leo as it aspected Neptune in Pisces and Pluto in Capricorn. On August 4, Jupiter formed a conjunction with Venus bringing up events of the earlier part of summer. Mercury was also part of a stellium of fire signs until it made its way into Virgo on August 7. As Jupiter enters Virgo (August 11), we enter a period of about 13 months when our perspective will change. We will see our dreams and desires manifest in more concrete forms—opportunities, enjoyment, abundance, and a greater fullness of enjoying what life rewards us with.

On August 12 Mercury in Virgo, Neptune in Pisces, and Pluto in Capricorn will form a wedge pattern that will last four days and will be in place on the New Moon on August 14. This may create some tension, that carries over until the full moon in Pisces on August 29. On August 26, Jupiter in Virgo will conjunct the Sun in Virgo, bringing positive opportunities that will carry us into the next lunar month. Mid-month in September there will be a solar eclipse in Virgo. Be sure to notice the dreams, visions, and intuitive messages you receive during the period leading up to that time.
It’s another new moon: when the magically minded make wishes and astrologers attempt to divine this cycle’s intentions. The wishes you make now may indeed be super-powered, but if you don’t have a strong relationship with the archetypes, don’t expect special favors. If you rarely play your cello, don’t expect a starring role in the Boston Philharmonic Orchestra.


The energy of Leo that is alive at this time, carries with it the element of star power. This can be really nice or really annoying, depending how healed a Leo is. For Leo, life is a party, a play toy, and is meant to be enjoyed—every element, whether good or bad. For unhealed Leos, life is a stage where any unhealed issues show up as acting out, demanding attention, and playing out the roles that represent whatever needs to be repaired, healed, acknowledged, or attended to.
The joy of Leo is seeing all of life as a place to play and have fun. There always has to be an element of fun and enjoyment, to even the worst experiences. The simplest acts can be a source of pleasure, and whatever is going on needs to be beautiful and thoughtfully arranged. And of course Leo wants the attention that go along with the parade, the show, or the performance.

We all have Leo somewhere in our chart/life. Notice where in your life you love attention and seek to be the star of whatever show you are in. Who and what are you attracted to? Who do you look to as a model for behavior, flare, or dress? Notice what attracts you—that is most likely the area of your life where Leo is demanding some extra special attention at this time. What do you want to add to your life to make things prettier, more fun, and more enjoyable? Let yourself enjoy life in a very special way. Let yourself roar and let loose. Do something to show your flair and enjoy the spice of life. Add some bright, fire colors to your wardrobe, and celebrate around a fire. Release whatever needs to leave your experience in some form of fire. Let go of whatever keeps you down. Get rid of the wet blankets, the negative thinking, and the imaginative obstacles that keep you down.

Let yourself love yourself with great joy and happiness. Appreciate yourself, and be glad for all your blessings. Let yourself play with your own creativity. On the New Moon in Leo at 7:53 A.M. PDT on August 14, take time out to celebrate, love, and lighten up. Take yourself less seriously, and enjoy the variety of life that welcomes our individual and collective diversity. Live and let live. Think less of yourself, and more of someone who needs a hug, a smile, or a second chance. Pay it forward by giving more than you get in some way, and let yourself enjoy life, in its fullness. Set your intentions for what you would really like to see manifest in your life. The energy of the Leo New Moon, fires up your intentions, and sets things in motion so that during the earthy Virgo times ahead, you will be receiving what you desire as well as what you need.

Full Blue Moon in Aquarius: Celebrate with Leo's Flair

With the Sun in 7 degrees of Leo and the Moon in 7 degrees of Aquarius, the July 31 Full Moon is the second full moon in this month. About every two years, two full moons fall within the same month, and this is called a Blue Moon. The expression “once in a Blue Moon” referring to something that doesn’t happen very often, is something most of us have heard. What does the Blue Moon hold in store? Well you can count on a very interesting mix of surprises and dramatic stirrings as this Full Blue Moon comes into opposition not only with the Sun in Leo but also with Mercury and Jupiter.

The Moon in Aquarius may be like the Ice Queen whose aloof attitude toward the Sun in Leo’s Drama Queen puts a bit of a damper on Leo’s desire for attention and the spotlight. Rulers of this Full Moon in the first decan of Aquarius, Saturn and Venus, is a full moon for visionaries and those seeking to expand beyond the boundaries of limitations and short-sighted thinking. Coupled with the fact that Venus is in the early stages of her retrograde phase, this Full Moon finds us seeking more freedom from whatever limits growth, too narrowly defines truth, and puts constraints on our sense of individual freedom.  We find ourselves shaking off the old skins of convention and outworn roles. We seek new horizons and new ways of achieving our goals, directing our paths, and discovering our connections with that which lies just beyond our reach, just beyond our view, and just over the next mountain top. Being present may seem nearly impossible as visions, dreams, and imagination find us traveling well beyond our own experience, into the realm of the Great Mysteries.

The Full Blue Moon has us seeking novel ways of change, and we might do well to remember to find at least a bit of grounding lest we get lost in the fantasy world that has us losing touch with what is before us. With the Sun, Mercury, and Jupiter in Leo, there is likely to be a very social aspect to this Full Moon. Leo wants to celebrate itself with a display of pride, freedom, and dramatic flair and above all, individuality. The Blue Moon in Aquarius is all about independence as well, but needs to feel the ‘all for one, one for all’ team spirit is in play. This is a crucial time in our collective history—a time of both the evolution and progression of our collective consciousness with the Divine Creation.

Coming as it does on the very last day of July, this Full Moon marks the halfway point in a cycle of completion, and occurs during a time of reflection and transformation of individual development as well as collective. We each can glimpse how our personal choices and life paths can help heal and nourish the whole. Notice what area of your life is highlighted by both the Sun and the Moon at this time. Notice what is evolving and being illuminated in your life. During this week leading up to the Full Blue Moon, pay particular attention to dreams, intuitive insight, visions, as well as the unfolding of new and unusual experiences of completion. Notice what blessings, words of knowledge and approval, or special favors flow to you now. Notice what gifts are being laid before you, and what desires are calling for you to take some action or make some movement toward what demands to be expressed, addressed, and created.

This is a time when gardens are flourishing, ideas are coming into bloom, and new growth is appearing in the middle of a very fruitful season. Abundance, signified by Jupiter’s presence in Leo, is unabashed in its gift giving and showering of plenty, affection, and resources. Prepare the way for receiving and celebrating, by ridding yourself of whatever clutters up the way. Clear out the cobwebs of old, worn out thought. Dust off the skills and talents that have laid dormant too long. Wake up the senses that long for stimulation. Connect with the Earth, Waters, Air, and Warmth of the seasons that cover the Earth. Awaken the Spirit to receive an infusion of Universal energy, vision, and joy—then use what you receive to make your life and the world a better place. Receive your healing, and help other heal as well.

With Venus’ entry into retrograde, take the next few weeks to nurture yourself, listen to what your heart and soul require, and follow your passion for Life. Breathe in the Divine Presence, and allow that Presence to fill you with joy, love, and serenity.  Celebrate in gratitude and grace at this Full Blue Moon.

Sun and Mercury entering Leo: shifting energy brings change

July Sunset Afterglow                                                                                                                                    Catherine Al-Meten

Prepare yourself for a week of great shifts and transitions. The Sun moves from the constellation of Cancer into Leo, as does Mercury. Venus begins her retrograde phase in Virgo on July 25. Remember, planets and the Sun begin drawing of the power of such shifts days and weeks before, depending on the speed of their orbit. Over the last few weeks, you may have been sensing the changes coming. Mars remains in Cancer until August 8, and so the muted nature and security-focused nature of Cancer infuses our actions. Jupiter entered Leo on July 16, reviving up the energy for increased abundance and returns on investments. Between now and August 11 when Jupiter enters Virgo, take advantage of all the good will, resources, opportunities, and new adventures that you will soon be engaging in.

Venus retrograde’s phase which runs from July 25 through September 6, happens to be a 40-day cycle.  Such cycles are often thought to be sacred times. Spiritual retreats and times of great reflection and enlightenment often follow a 40-days and 40 nights pattern. Venus symbolizes the goddess of Love as well as War, according to the ancient Babylonians. We all know that love, turned inside out, can be used as a weapon against the those whose love was once so precious. A retrograde phase is a time for reflection, and it is also a time to look at the shadow side of whatever issues are unexamined, unhealed, or unresolved in that area of our lives.

During Venus retrograde cycles, old flames may show up, new, unorthodox approaches to relationships may be tried out.  Complications from any unresolved past issues related to love, marriage, romance, or other intimate connections may result. Whatever is strong and durable, will survive. Whatever is not, will end or become much less a focus. Energy that has been drained in trying to make something work that isn’t meant to, now depletes those who have run out of excuses, solutions, or tolerance for untenable situations.

Venus in Virgo has us looking for pragmatic, down-to-earth ways to express and experience love. Whatever we do that pertains to Venus-ruled experiences, has to have a practical application. Art we buy, clothes we wear, entertainment we choose, and of course, the way we view love and relationships. Venus in Virgo has us looking at anything we do with impeccable care. We pay attention to the details and we tend to the small, but important aspects of our lives. Clearing clutter and cleaning house, become part and parcel of our lives right now. When we release clutter during this period, it is infinitely more rewarding. Energy is released and movement is spurred along, especially since the Sun and Mercury are entering Leo during this same period. The focus and direction of our energy flow now is into direct action.

The retrograde phase of Venus which starts this week, is a time when we will each have the opportunity to discover what is ready for resolution and healing.  This can be a time of great vulnerability, a time when we question and doubt the choices we have made regarding love. We may wander into the past, looking for reassurance from something or someone that is no longer on our side, so to speak.  Our own vulnerabilities create a tension that finds us needing reassurance and validation, but not ready to go into uncharted territories. The tendency during times like this is to fall back into patterns from the past, seeking to relight an old flame or cling to ideas and relationships that no longer honor who we are.

While this retrograde time may bring temptations that draw us into old patterns and behavior, it can also be a time when we are brave enough to put an end to what is dead and gone. Time to symbolically bury the past. Over the last week or so, you may have already entered into temptation’s garden, and discovered yourself back in the energy of a relationship you have had a difficult time letting go of. If that is the case, you may have ignored your intuitive red flags or found yourself making excuses for your lover’s behavior—a pattern that you seem to want to ignore. If this is the case, hopefully you will wake up now, and takes time during the 40-day cycle to extricate yourself from whatever is not life-affirming, love-giving, and healthy. This requires personal courage and a clarity of mind that you can have some perspective on what the wrong choices will result in if you choose to slip back into an old routine and opt not to grow stronger and move forward.

This retrograde period of Venus is excellent for healing and creating. Go back and discover the beauty that has been within you, that you share and sometimes squander with those who do not appreciate it.  Spend time building up your inner sanctuary, tending to the beauty, love, gifts, and treasures you have within. Take what is best from the past, and give it a new polish.  Involve yourself in creative endeavors you do as a form of  self renewal. Step into sacred space in the Divine Temple where you allow yourself to heal, nourish, and experience a rebirth of yourself in a new form and shape, tempered, honed and strengthened by your experiences. To do so promises you that you will emerge from this period a transformed person, capable and ready to move over the threshold to a new kind of experience in love, beauty, relationship, and life.

Over the weekend of the 25-27, Venus will parallel Uranus in Aries. This finds us embracing whatever new energy is flowing into our lives right now. It ushers in the 40-day period and sends significant energy into areas of our lives and love relationships, that find us looking in new directions, being presented with new ideas and opportunities, and discovering entirely new fields of exploration in our search for love, truth, and beauty. It can be an exhilarating time, yet a bit unstable. Enjoy the ride, and let yourself take things slowly when it comes to making long term commitments or plans. Let things develop slowly and organically.

During this week, Mercury is going to trine Chiron in Pisces, making for an excellent time for communications. Listening is easier for us now, and we find we have little need to push our ideas across or fail to listen because we are so worried we won’t be heard. We may find it easier to feel comfortable not having to say everything we think. Also on Monday, Venus seisquiquadrates Neptune in Pisces causing some fuzzy thinking or a desire to wool gather and day dream. This may be great for artistic inspiration but may not be so for anything that requires clarity or technical skill. Later in the evening, the Sun in Cancer trines Saturn in Scorpio. Despite their presence in water sings, this trine brings a kind of grounding that makes u feel very at home and stable. We are more content with not only what we are doing but also how we are doing it. We feel the capacity to deal with whatever we are responsible for doing, and we do so with a greater sense of being able to look at the reality of our lives and ourselves, rather than dwelling on wishing we could change or do things better. We are riding the horse in the direction it is going.

On Wednesday, Mercury in Cancer trines Saturn in Scorpio, another aspect that brings clarity, energy, and focus to whatever we are organizing, planning, or preparing for. This is a positive time for clarity and sound decision making. Whatever you have worked hard to develop in your life and the lessons you have learned from self inquiry and honest reflection, now manifest in bringing form and substance into whatever plans, projects, or choices you are now making or working on. What you set into motion now, brings forth your future crop of ideas and creations.

Also on Wednesday, the Sun enters Leo. We move into the active arena of fire energy.  Almost immediately, the Sun in Leo conjuncts Mercury, so we might actually start this solar transit with some very good news or receive something we have been waiting for.  In any event, our mind, body, spirit, and all levels of communication are in perfect alignment, making this a time when we are clear and concise, full of ideas and plans, capable of solving complex problems, and no doubt saying or writing exactly what we feel and mean. Our words, in whatever form, have an impact and will result in tangible effects. Choose your words wisely. Be careful what you wish or ask for becaue you are bound to see it manifest.

On Thursday, Mercury also enters Leo leading up to some interesting and powerful energy and meetings.

Also on  Thursday, all day Friday and into the weekend, the Moon is in Scorpio. The Moon is making aspects each day with all the major inner and outer planets and the Sun. Saturn still in its retrograde journey into the last decan of Scorpio, is causing us to revisit a lot of old thoughts, patterns, and behaviors. It is as if we are going through the trunks in our attics or basements, reviewing the history of who we are and where we came from. We are assessing, during this period, and with the Moon also transiting this sign, we are apt to feel very emotional if not downright melancholy. You may find yourself facing deeper levels of grief than you have in a long time. Outbursts and emotions are on the surface for many at this time. Something you say or do may trigger feelings in someone else—feelings that may not actually have anything to do with you, but you may be on the receiving end of their unhealed grief or unacknowledged anger. Steer clear of encounters with anyone who may use you for a punching bag or toss their own unhealed garbage your way.  Whether or not it is conscious or unconscious, intentional or unintentional, you don’t need nor do you deserve to be the recipient of anyone else’s anger, rage, or unhealed stuff.

Also on Friday, the first quarter square of the Moon occurs. This is a time when whatever we have already set into motion or been focusing our energy on, meets its first tests of this lunar cycle.  With the New Moon setting off the Cancer  cycle, our emotional well being depends on feeling at home, feeling safe and secure, and feeling we are capable of taking care of those for whom we are responsible.  Notice how this square triggers or energizes you on Friday, and notice what your natural inclination is. By observing our behavior under different stellar aspects, we begin to understand that we are fluid, dynamic beings, and that we are always learning how to adapt to the mysterious, the unknown, and the unexpected.

On Saturday, July 25, Mars in Cancer squares Uranus in Aries, a very explosive, unpredictable aspect. Our feelings and need for security and safety, may be jostled by unexpected event, changes, or other challenges and obstacles. Our own behavior may be affected by this aspect, and so it is helpful to remember to curb our impetuousness and rein in our desire to act or react impulsively. Keep your cool, and count to ten if you feel the temperature rise in discussions that are edging on arguments. We may feel distracted because the energy (Uranus in Aries) and all the planets and the Sun now in Leo, are heating things up and increasing our levels of energy. Rash actions and choices are likely, so notice where you are likely to be affected.

All in all, it’s a pretty active week, with major shifts in energy, changing signs of planets, and a cartload of aspects that challenge us to remain true to ourselves, remain connected to the Divine guidance we need, and ride the seas of change ready to adjust our sails according to the weather and our destination. Navigating through changing seas, requires vigilance, both of the inner and outer realities of Nature. What is the natural course that you find yourself on at this time in your life? This is the guiding question

for a time such as this.

New Moon in Cancer

This weekend, we have experienced the lunar phase called the Dark of the Moon, and this evening we experience the square between the Sun in Cancer and Uranus in Aries, a potent aspect affecting us in sudden, shocking, and surprising ways. The Moon is in the last few days of Gemini, the same sign of this month’s earlier lunar cycle. The square brings us anything but a predictable life. Expect the unexpected, and be prepared to be shaken to our foundations.  However we are used to coping with upsets, may not work at this time. It is essential that we remain adaptable and flexible. Whatever changes to our routines or disruptions of our way of life occur at this time, we will feel that we are grasping for ways to act on our own behalf, to improve our quality of life.

Since both the Sun and Uranus have been moving into this alignment for a few days now, the peak may serve to bring us down to earth or shake us up just enough to remind us that we cannot predict everything nor can we control for all possibilities. When we are faced with upsets, challenges, or unwelcome surprises or changes, we need to above all else, remain calm. It is best to take your time in discerning how to handle changes, and to think carefully before acting. Sudden and  thoughtless acts are to be avoided at all costs now. Slow down. Take time off or take time to rest. Avoid overdoing or pushing pass your personal limits.  Health, safety, and long-term well being are at risk if caution isn’t taken to take care of your health.

In the early morning on January 13 (5:09 A.M. PDT) Mercury  at 14/11 Cancer forms a semi-square to Jupiter at 24/29 Leo. This stimulating aspect may find some of us waking up with a monkey mind, full of ideas, fears, plans, or lists of things that feel urgent and/or neglected. Avoid starting off the day by letting this energy knock you off center. Instead, make a careful list of what need to be done, spend some time in meditation and prayer, and get out and take an early morning walk to help calm yourself down and to gain some perspective for the day and week ahead. Restlessness is one manifestation of Mercury’s semi-square to Jupiter. Wishful thinking or elaborate pipe dreams carry this energy off on a lot of mental and physical tangents. Give yourself some space and time to let some of this energy out.

Around noon on Monday, Mercury in Cancer trines Neptune in Pisces. This leads to a lot of time spent day-dreaming, fantasizing, and imagniative thinking. This can be a useful time for brainstorming or creative and artistic work.   Sometime in the evening the Sun in Cancer trines Chiron in Pisces, opening our hearts, minds, and spirits to healing that takes place when we come to understand some of what our wounds and and challenges have brought to us as gifts for growth and fulfillment.

Late Monday night on the West Coast and later in the evening further East, Venus  in the anaretic degree  (29th) of Leo forms a square to Saturn in 28 degrees retrograde of Scorpio. This brings something from the past to a head, to its final stages, or to its completion or end. Wherever this aspect occurs in your chart, look to see what is making its last dying breath in some way. What is over, not only in a superficial or surface way, but also in a very real and final emotional and spiritual way. Observe the dreams that occur this night as you may receive some definitive or enlightening answers to questions you have been trying to resolve lately.  Notice where emotional distance, lack of affection or caring, or cold, calculating attitudes are wreaking havoc on your emotional and personal happiness. Treat yourself with tenderness, and avoid difficult, demanding, or one-sided relationships that drain or harm you.

Also on Wednesday, Mars in Gemini forms a seisquiquadrant to Saturn in Scorpio. When Mars, the planet of action comes up against Saturn, the plodding Great Teacher, we are called on to handle whatever needs handling and to do so in a way that is well thought out and solid. What might seem like resistance is a reminder that whatever long-term changes and transitions are taking place in our lives, demand that change be grounded in solid, steady, and constant intention and sound thinking. It may feel like you are podding through a lot of muck and mire to get even simple things done at this time.

On Wednesday Venus forms a semi-square to Mars in the morning.  Some touchiness and emotional edginess may arise with this aspect. The desire to live peacefully and with a sense of beauty and fairness rubs up against the need and desire to get things done. Tension in or about relationships is likely. This happens at about the same time that Mars in Gemini is coming into opposition with Pluto, in Capricorn—another combination that is fraught with impatience and a sense of urgency while being stalled or hampered in efforts to move forward. This opposition is sure to find you in power struggles and battles for position, authority, or respect.  Notice how this energy fits your own patterns, and see if you can use the energy to discern how you need to develop and grow in some way.

The New Lunar cycle in Cancer is a time when we awaken to our security needs and to that which makes us feel at home, safe, comfortable, and fulfilled with our lives.  At this New Moon, it is a good time to honor that which grounds us and lifts us at the same time. How does our lifestyle, our beliefs and practices, and our perspectives and values reflect our highest good? How do we serve and love those in our care and community? In what ways are we drawing to us that which allows us to love and be loved in return? What brings us peace and the sense of being at home with ourselves? On this New Moon in Cancer, set your intentions on that which nourishes, feeds, honors, and provides you with a true sense of home.

Wednesday, July 15 at 6:24 P.M./PDT marks the beginning of a new lunar cycle when the Moon enters Cancer. The New Moon occurs at 23/14 of the water sign, Cancer, one of the four cardinal points on the Zodiac. Anyone with planets, the Sun, the Moon, or aspects between 20-26 degrees of the Cardinal signs of Aries, Cancer, Libra, and Capricorn, will feel the influence of this moon strongly.

Time for reflection and awareness

The third Quarter square of the Moon in Aries to the Sun in Cancer at 16/21 degrees brings us to the period in the Lunar cycle called the Dark of the Moon. A time before the next New Moon, this is a time of wrapping up and completing whatever was conceived of, initiated, or underway at the last New Moon three weeks ago. The Light of the Moon is decreasing, and it is not the best of times to start something new. It is, however, a good time to put the finishing touches on something already under way or something nearing completion or transition.

Over the last two or three weeks, you may have noticed some strange awakenings or unusual revelations occurring. Sudden and unexpected changes may have occurred, either at your own instigation or as a result of your deep-seated desires manifesting as choices made for you. For example, you may have reached the limits of your endurance, tolerance, or satisfaction with a situation or relationship. This may have triggered either internal or external actions, decisions, or revelations. Someone may have quietly observed something about your behavior, demeanor, or choices that shed new light on an important decision you have or are making. Or you may have felt tested and pushed to the limit just one too many times, and lost your temper or expressed yourself in a way that pushed the truth out into the light. Whatever may have taken place, a new kind of awareness has dawned on you. In my case, after telling my doctor at my annual check up how well and quickly I had handled a long unresolved problem and was now ready to “just move on”, she laughed and looked at me and said, “You know that’s not how that happens, don’t you?”  And of course she is right. What my head/ego wants me to do is not necessarily what is really going on. Notice in your own life, where your ego drives are leading your astray or at the very least, away from what is really good for you or not.

As Hemingway suggested about the best laid plans of mice and men, our plans and expectations do not necessarily merge on our life journey. What needs to  be readjusted in your plans, your attitude, or your perspective? What has been revealed to you about shifts and alternatives? What could you incorporate into your life to make it easier to deal with challenges, difficulties, or vacant spaces?

The Sun remains in Cancer until July 21, and during this time we remain very protective and concerned with security and the needs of home, hearth, and family. Mercury which has been in Gemini, is ready to move into Cancer on July 8.  Gemini’s quest to engage in everything of the least bit interesting, has spurred an increase in all kinds of communication during Mercury’s recent transit. Over the course of the next couple of days, you may put the finishing touches on a discussion, end or be notified of something that has ended, or be or become more aware that what once mattered so much, is no longer important. Mercury will transit the anaretic degree (29 degrees) of Gemini right before it changes signs, so be aware and sensitive to whatever needs to be released or let go of. Be prepared to move forward, leaving at least a bit of baggage behind.

As Mercury moves into Cancer on July 8th, it will join the Sun and Mars who are both presently transiting Cancer. Mars, the planet of action, and the Sun the symbol of expression, will be enhanced with Mercury’s transit through Cancer. Mercury brings its insight, clarity, news, long-awaited communications, and understanding to trigger and propel greater expression and action on our desire to achiever safety, harmony, and balance within our homes and within our own sense of being at home. Mercury may also fuel some of the mood swings that Mars in Cancer tends to ignite due to its repressive position in this sign.  When we hold back what we really feel, deny what we really want, or are hampered and frustrated by not being understood, it is bound to come out in some pretty unhealthy or unpredictable ways. 

With Saturn’s plunge back into Scorpio, we now have the chance to use all this watery, emotional, and subconscious energy and awareness to get in touch with what we really feel and begin to live a bit more authentically and honestly. In another week (July 14), Saturn, the Great Teacher will renter Sagittarius once again, leaving the deep, dark, sometimes depressingly revealing realms of Scorpio for the remainder of this Saturn transit. Use these last days of this revelatory transit of Saturn, to glean the lessons that your heart, mind, soul, and experience are meant to learn. Let your inner warrior enter the battlefield of self development and growth, rather than engaging on battlefields that distract and deflect you from what you are truly meant to learn, do, and be at this time, in this life journey you are on.

Venus remains in fiery Leo until July 18.We are still caught up in the idea and ideals of romance. When we invest our heart, emotions, and desires into creative work that holds deep meaning for us, we use this Venus transit for its highest purpose. When we choose to be directed by love and compassion, we serve even as we are ministered to. Next Sunday, July 12, Venus forms a square with Saturn (right before Saturn reenters Sagittarius), and this can manifest as a great deal of discomfort, dissatisfaction, and even some depression. The reason? We have been denying some truth, some need, or some desire and that has led to the suppression of what is authentic for us.  This aspect lasts two days,and coincides with the anaretic degree that Mercury is making. Lots of the movement in the heavens this week and next, focus our attention on whatever needs liberating.

By July 14 (coincidentally Bastille Day in France), we may feel we have been let out of a prison and a long suppression of our dreams and desires.  That suppression is primarily of our own making, so notice how any resistance to change or facing truth, appears in your life. Notice how you turn from looking in the mirror to discover what your soul is revealing to you. Notice the signs that other people’s decisions and choices signal to you about your own condition. It can be a time of great insight, provided we are willing to stop, look, and listen. Watch your dreams, check in with your intuition, notive your fantasies and visions, and watch how ‘the day goes’. Notice when things just don’t seem to work out,and notice what those little or not so little disruptions, disappointments, or delays symbolize.

On Monday, July 6 (as I write), the Sun in Cancer is in direct opposition to Pluto in Capricorn.  Now is the time to deal head on with issues involving power, authority, and competition. Any issues that remain unresolved in our own inner struggle to take hold of the reins of our own lives, may now manifest in some unpleasant and defected displays of emotion. We may strike out at others or be hyper-critical or irritated with external conditions or responses due to the lack of connection to and control. We may feel that others or the job or the financial markets or something outside of ourself is holding us back from realizing our goals. A feeling of powerlessness may make us feel vulnerable, frightened, or threatened. The good news is, if we are willing to engage in a true battle to understand our own motivations, intentions, needs, and habits, we can learn how we are inviting trouble to our door or not. On some level, we invite in what is visiting us, and now is a great time to notice if our thoughts, our ways of communicating, or ambiguity, or indecisiveness is working for or against our best interests. This can be a day of great inner growth and enlightenment. At the very least, it is time to do an inventory of what our resources are—both internal and external. Who am I, and what am I doing with my time, my life, my purpose? How am I getting in my own way, and what do I need to do to be more open to Divine guidance? What are the signs and guiding principles in my life? What remains a mystery to me? What have I learned about my gifts, and how am I nurturing those gifts for my highest good?

Tuesday evening Mercury forms a quincunx to Saturn. Communication is blocked or at the very least foggy and vague. We may feel at loose ends, unable to get our point across and unwilling or capable of hearing what someone else says. The subliminal energy of this week may find us distracted to the point that we forget or feel like we have forgotten something of vital importance. Whether that feeling is real or not, the energy generated by feeling we’ve ‘lost it’ may find us creating disaster scenarios in our fantasy world that is ruled by Ego-Controller. 

The key during such times is to slow down, get centered on the immediate present, and practice a little mindfulness. Peel a grape, sing a song, mow the lawn, or jog around the block. Do something to loosen the grip that terror scenarios raise in us. Remember too, that fear scenario raises our cortisol levels, and creates some very real problems with our health.  Live in gratitude over the abundance and serenity in your life. Surrender your worries to something bigger than yourself. Write down fears and then burn them. Go to confession or reconciliation. Write in your diary. Pound your pillow or hammer it out. Let go of the fantasies that use up your time and energy, and misdirect and confuse.

On Wednesday, Mars in Cancer trines Neptune in Pisces. This lovely, watery combination helps us bring some of our best ideas to fruition. Following our intuition, using our insight, and taking in the messages and guidance of our dreams enables us to reap the benefits of the Creative One. Artistic, creative, and productive ideas abound, and we feel more powerful and fertile than we may have for some time. Rather than allowing our needs and desires to drive and propel us, we relax and ease into a more in-depth expression of beauty, love, and creative insight. With the shroud of  fear and oppression lifted, we flow more freely and live more fully in the harmony of the now. We live, and move, and have our being in the Divine Light, and feel ourselves at one with that Light and all that reflects that great Love.

In this week of the third quarter square of the Moon and the period of the dark of the moon before the next new moon, allow yourself time and space to honor what is being born in you, what is leaving your experience, and what you need to and can do to make your growing and learning process less painful and random, and more mindful and intentional.