A week of fiery passions and change

Bleeding Hearts in Sunlight                                                                   Catherine Al-Meten

July was a period of much movement, with planets changing signs and decoration. August is a period when the planets are doing what the Avatar movies describe as airbending―that is setting off dynamic connections with the conjunctions and aspects they make. It is as if  the winds are whipping up the fires as the water signs are creating steam heat with the aspects they make. As the hot Leo Sun blazes into the second decan (ruled by Jupiter, planet of expansion and abundance) from August 3-12, we can feel the inner urges pushing us up from our sedate or brooding positions giving us the burning desires  of the water snake (the symbol of Leo’s 2nd decan). Deeply spiritual, yet not interested in becoming beholding to religious constraints, gurus, or traditions, the energy of Leo now takes on more spontaneous, primal, and creative energy to seek and find their own way, guided by intuitive and cosmic messages. 

Also typical of the Sun’s passage through the second decan of Leo, is the appearance of the shadow aspects of Leo―the flair for the dramatic, the needs to roar, and the tendency to let their reasoning lead them into lengthy debates. I notice trying to have a discussion with a Leo (of which I am surrounded by), quickly leads into debate, with no chance of ending in a tie, compromise, or healthy live-and-let-live ‘to each their own’ resolution (something Pisces and Libras seek with a vengeance). 

With Jupiter ruling this decan, this tendency is exaggerated. The positive expression of this quality is the ability to organize others beautifully, albeit against their will or desire. They get straight to the point, and suffer no fools. This is a time that those with strong Leo influences can make the greatest impact. With the healthiest egos in the zodiac, 2nd decan Leos take an either-or, us vs. them approach to life.  Seeking complete control and dominance in some arena or fighting against the powers that be, 2nd decan Leo takes a stand that pits them against anyone who opposes them. They tend to go to extremes with everything―including spiritual practices, their generosity, or in the expansion of their influence, power, king/queendoms, and vast estates and wealth.  While slow to invest in something new, when committed to a cause or purpose, there is no stopping them. This can also be the downfall, as 2nd decan Leos need to curb and reign in their energy, expansive goals and desires, in order to keep themselves from burning out.

During this period of time, the fiery drama and histrionics of others around them, propel 2nd decan Leos (or this aspect of your life/chart) with the capacity to remain calm, centered, and motionless in the middle of the chaos going on around you. Look to the area of your chart that is ruled by the 2nd decan of Leo, and you will probably notice that this area is where much attention, action, and energy is drawn during this period of the Sun’s transit through Leo. With all the conjunctions and other aspects setting off the planets now transiting Leo, this should be a very active and dramatic time for you. 

As the week begins, the Sun is at 12/16 degrees of Leo, the Moon is transiting Scorpio at 20/2 degrees, and Mercury is in the first decan of Leo (still being influenced by Cancer’s caution and need for nourishment and security) at 7/51 degrees. This month the Sun, Saturn, and Uranus continue to focus our attention on a particular area of our lives where we need to and are learning to see something vital and urgent for our growth and understanding. Depending upon whether we respond to this aspect by letting ourselves get blown out of the water by something that seems to be overwhelming and drastic, or by seeing the interconnectedness of life in general and our path within the larger scheme of things, we will have more highly focused energy directed in this area, tests to challenge or urge us to change, and both the time and need to examine how this is having a long-term effect on us. Look to see where Venus is transiting (20/45 Cancer)―this is the area of your life that requires close and careful inspection and also is calling something vital to your attention. Uranus in Aries and Saturn in Scorpio are the areas of your chart/life through which you are experiencing, viewing, and forming your perceptions about this area. So whatever Uranus in Aries has been triggering, taking away or bringing to you as well as what Saturn in Scorpio has been waking up within you, are those elements that give you access into the deeper understanding of what is going on in the area of transformation that Venus is triggering. For example, if Venus in Cancer is transiting your 9th house (higher education, foreign cultures and people, higher ideals, philosophy, spirituality, and long distance travel) notice how events happening in Aries (6th house-physical body/health and daily life and work) and awakenings in Scorpio (2nd house-self worth, personal values, finances) are pointing to changes in that 9th house experience?  Oftentimes, the areas of our lives where the most growth , turmoil, upset, or challenges are taking place are pointing us into the direction of what needs to change or be transformed in another very important area of our lives. We do best to use astrological knowledge as a guide to se how the parts are working together for the whole, and this month that is certainly true for whatever area of our lives this telescope of transformation is allowing us to view, understand, and experience what is already in the process of changing so that we may grow more fully. As a whole, with the Uranus and Venus square, we are looking at how we have suffered from abuse, misuse, or have debased ourselves in order to seek and find love and connection. The square pinpoints the areas of our lives where we have suffered from violence or oppression or from a withholding of love or fulfillment due to deception, dishonesty, or simply from not understanding the limits of others to give and receive love. 

When we find ourselves in unfulfilling relationships, we may be caught in the trap of thinking we are meant to learn or teach someone something. Oftentimes the lesson is that we are to learn and teach ourselves that we are settling for something less than what we need and want simply as a means to continue living out an illusion, fantasy, or expectation that is no longer sustainable, or that we might have realized or recognized as false or untrue.  It could also shed light on something we have experienced as unfulfilled desire, unrequited love, or an expression of deep love and commitment that had been held back for years.  This is a particularly important time to pay attention to your subconscious thoughts, dreams, and intuitive knowledge. The truth is there; all you have to do is acknowledge it and pay attention.

Later in the month, August 8-11when the intensity of this telescopic focus ends, we will enter a learning triangle with the stellium of Sun, Mercury, Lilith and Venus squaring both Saturn and Uranus showing us how to deal with, break away from, or where you are longing to break free from chains that bind you. 

This week:

Sunday, August 3.

Just a note about Saturday night. I heard so many people talking about having bad dreams, and I had one myself, that I thought I would mention that the Moon made a conjunction with Mars late at night, and this very likely triggered dreams to be linked to our emotional fears more than anything else. Whatever we fear or whatever is causing us to suffer in any way, is triggered by the Moon’s movement into conjunction with Mars in the early degrees of Scorpio. Our subconscious/unconscious was awoken to remind us how our fears block us and affect us. That which we fear, rises up to remind us that we do not need to be ruled by  our fears; we need to use our understanding to overcome our fears. 

On Sunday, the Moon formed its First quarter square with the Sun in Leo and the Moon in Scorpio. This lent itself to some crisis-dominated energy. We may have felt compelled to adjust whatever we started at the July 26 New Moon in Leo. We meet with the first challenges, blocks, or doubts we may have about whatever we are starting. This aspects affects those with planets between 10-14 degrees of Taurus, Leo, Scorpio, or Aquarius.

Venus remains in Cancer until August 12, nurturing our need to mother, nourish, and protect. We long to put roots down (in relationships), and feel comfort in whatever has stood the test of time in areas of romance and social experiences and connections.  Between July 31-August 1, Venus formed a trine with Saturn, and that should have allowed us to learn more about what underpins our perceptions, patterns, understanding, and needs in our relationships. What do we need? What do we have or not have? and what is blocking us from having what we need and desire? The search is internal―look inwardly for these answers for the answers are there.

Late last night (PDT) or early this morning (EDT) Mercury in Leo formed a quincunx to Neptune in Pisces. This raised the head of uncertainty from our unconscious, and sent us on a trip into our heads where we may feel lost in thought or may find ourselves feeling indecisive or uncertain about many things. In our dreams, this may have been experienced as dreams full of images reflecting the polarities we are faced with. In one dream I had last night, I met an old shadow figure in a dark room. She was beckoning me from the light room where I was through a door that was transparent. Out of that meeting, I had an epiphany or recognition of something that I knew to be true that had had a tremendous impact on my life.  In the dream, I met my own uncertainty, and recognized a truth about my own life experience.  Nighttime aspects are particularly interesting when looking at what arises from our dream state during those times.  

On Tuesday, Venus in 20 degrees of Cancer, forms a seisquiquadate with Neptune in Pisces. This connects us to what makes us happiest. We see and experience life as we want to, and can overlook or temporarily forget what may be plaguing the world or ourselves. We can enjoy life fully at this time, and we may experience a somewhat dreamy quality during this time. Plan on enjoying yourself; myself, I’ve planned a lovely day to spend with my family.

Later in the day, Saturn trines Chiron, and we feel competent, effective, and secure in our own being. We use traditions and innovations as ways to express ourselves in unique ways. We find ways to go our own way, find meaning that fits our life style and path, and we do so without creating controversy or upsetting any apple carts. We experience  humbleness of being and feel that life, as it is, is good. Regardless of the circumstances or conditions we experience, we have a rare moment of feeling that life is deeply good and redeeming. We understand and feel ourselves at the core of our own being, and find what is good is stronger than what is weak. We act from a place of deep conviction, love, and compassion. 

Wednesday. 

Mercury in Leo forms a seisquiquadrate to Pluto in Capricorn. Both written and oral communication can become controversial under this influence. We find decision making difficult, and we may need to adjust plans. My suggestion: go with the flow today, and learn how to move more mindfully. Release the expectations that everything has to go according to plan; it rarely does, so adjust.

Thursday. 

Mars in the early degrees of Scorpio  is trine to Neptune in Pisces. Today we can trust our intuition, need to follow our creative impulses, and can spend the day in a more relaxed and inspired frame of mind than usual. Get outdoors, walk on the beach, go jump in  lake, or do some laps in a pool. Take your paints and sketching outdoors, and act on all creative impulses. Revel in the beauty of life today.

Friday. 

Mercury in Leo conjuncts the Sun. Communication is aligned to our thoughts and desires, and we are able to express ourselves beautifully, solve problems easily, and align our needs and wants with possible actions. Anything we write or speak into being today, has wings to fly and heart to last.

Mercury in Leo  trine Uranus in Aries has us meeting, uniting, and receiving unexpected gifts, gains, and insights. Our intuition is extremely strong right now, and is deeply linked to our passions. This is a time when we can be original, creative, artistic, and bountiful.

Mercury in Leo forms a quincunx with Chiron (the Wounded Healer)  in Pisces. Some healing is taking place with this aspect. We notice that our own self doubts and insecurities now rise to the surface. We have trouble reading situations and people, and tend to turn in on ourselves letting our fears and doubts cause us to doubt intentions. Miscommunication is the result, and everyone seems to be reacting or responding our of their own weaknesses, fears, doubts, or wounds. 

Friday. 

Mercury in Leo will be conjunct the Sun, making communication sharp. Our wants are aligned with our thoughts, and we are able to make ourselves understood. We also understand our essence, in particular in relation to whatever area of our life/chart this aspect falls (the area ruled by Leo). Whatever we put into writing or say with conviction, takes on the power and authority of our desires. Be discerning, for what you say and express carries weight for a long time to come.

Mercury in Leo trine Uranus in Aries is a good time to take action, organize for future plans, and be receptive and open to unexpected gains and insight. Intuition is strong right now, and you are likely to have some original insights, and innovative and creative ideas. Again, the area of your life that is getting the spotlight is the house/area of life that Leo is ruling.

Mercury in Leo quincunx Chiron in Pisces, focuses on struggles with decision making. Our wounds tend to define us in terms of what habits, patterns of behavior, or negative programming we are trying to emerge from or feel trapped in.  When we have trouble making up our minds, one problem can be because we are doubting our own perceptions, we have trouble trusting our intuition, or we are unclear about our own desires, expectations, or needs.  This can signal miscommunications as it affects everyone to some degree or another. Imagine everyone walking around with a 10 bubbles of dialogue going on in their heads at once? We need to get out of our heads, meaning out of our preconceived notions, patterned responses and mental tapes, psychological wounds and behavior. Practicing mindfulness is one way to handle transits of Mercury that trigger upset, confusion, mistrust, and other forms of negativity.

The Moon is in the waxing phase, building up to a Super Full Moon in Aquarius on Sunday, August 10. Watch for the Full Moon in Aquarius column on Saturday, and watch as passions build and new dreams begin to take shape.

New Moon, Sun and Jupiter in Leo: Auspicious time in the Garden

Purple Magesty                                                                                     Catherine Al-Meten

The closest I think I will ever come to being in the embrace of Leo the Lion is in being nuzzled by my big black and white tomcat, Frederico who woke me this morning at 3:00 to hold an early morning conference. He reminded me that we have to be aware of the fire energy within each of us, that stirs us in the night, spurs us on during the day, and meets us at dawn and dusk to get moving into and out of consciousness. When we sleep, our conscious mind closes down, and our the unconscious begins tapping at our door, through dreams and through the workings of the Universal Consciousness takes us into whatever places we need to be woken up.  Our consciousness is like a garden that is always in need of care, attention, and appreciation. To care for the garden, we need to enter it. To be open to what our Consciousness is signaling us, we need to be willing to be awake. What we do with what we learn, is what our life journey seems to be about.  What is knocking at the door of your consciousness at this time? What needs tending in the garden?

Everything we experience becomes part of who we are, and we continually process this through our senses, our intellect, our heart, emotions, and physical body, and within our spirit. At each new moon, we watch as the tides rise and fall, seasons come and go, and life progresses onward. Some are caught up with the limiting thought that aging is something to fear or dread. Rather with each New Moon we are reminded of how we are coming along on our journey as a spiritual being having a physical experience. We sometimes sense our limitations and fears, and allow those both to be excuses, rationale, or bars on the cage of our own making. Look to this New Moon in Leo as a time to reexamine your own views of life, its purpose and meaning, and whatever blocks your good. This New Moon in Leo is an auspicious time when you are once again invited to honor the life and gifts you have, release what needs releasing, and be open and receptive to your highest good. 

New Moon in Leo joins Jupiter in Leo to expand energy, infusing us with an abundance of creativity and passion. Jupiter also represents generosity of spirit that comes on the wings of grace. 

Sri Ramakrishna, C19 mystic, from a poor Brahman family in Bengal, India, taught,  “The winds of grace are always blowing, but you have to raise the sail to catch it.” One of his first teachers, an ascetic woman, Bhairavi Brahmani,  introduced him to Tantra, most beautifully described by Prabhat Ranjan Sarkar, as such. One who practices Tantric yoga is “A person who, irrespective of caste, creed or religion, aspires for spiritual expansion or does something concrete {toward that end}. Tantra in itself is neither a religion nor an "ism". Tantra is a fundamental spiritual science. So wherever there is any spiritual practice it should be taken for granted that it stands on the Tantric.” Ramakrishna would go on to found a spiritual path based on the principles of God as Mother of the Universe and all religions hold the seeds of truth. 

This month with the Sun in Leo, the New Moon in Leo shines its light on the sea of light, and we are on that sea of light. During Jupiter’s passage through Cancer, our hidden nature, emotional resources, and spiritual essence have been recharged, and now as Jupiter transits through Leo, we are infused with the passion, energy, and enthusiasm to create, discover, heal, and grow. Prepare to expand your awareness, fire up your curiosity, and join your energies with those who seek to know the Divine within as it connects to the Universal Soul. 

This is one of the best times possible to begin a new venture, set forth on a new journey, envision a new path, and raise our sails in readiness for the grace that flows through our lives at this time. This is one of the most fortuitous times of this year, and is an excellent time for allowing yourself to create, dream something into life, or initiate new projects and relationships, or stages of relationships. This is the time to let loose of fear and anything else that blocks you from your good. It is a time to embrace your gifts,  and to open yourself to receive blessings, inspiration, and guidance. Become accustomed to living in the question as you cast off old patterns and perspectives and take on a new purpose and lightness of being in living ever mindful in the present. Time to let go of expectations, emotional baggage, and negativity so that you can move in light and purpose, to love and serve others and fulfill your purpose. Time to remember the words of the beautiful song by John Talbot, “Be Not Afraid”: 

Be not afraid

I go before you always

Come follow Me

And I WILL give you rest.

New Moon at 3 degrees Leo is at the place in the Leo constellation that includes the Great Bear, Ursa Major. Sitting on the front paw, the star, Talitha, this New Moon represents the biblical story of Jesus being called to revive a dying girl. Jesus says to her, “Talitha arise.” This star, Talitha, represents healing through compassion―compassion and forgiveness of  one’s self and of others. We cannot forgive others, if we have not already forgiven ourselves, for it is through self understanding and forgiveness that our compassion and empathy deepens and grows. Part of the energy of healing and learning compassion is dealing with our own resistance to learning or coping with our woundedness. The shadow side of this New Moon is becoming over protective, defensive, and if pushed too hard, striking out and projecting our own fears out onto others.  Healing is a necessary component of what needs to happen for learning how to live in peace with ourselves and with others. When we are unconscious to our selves, we  walk around striking out, judging, and viewing others through the lens of our own wounds and fears. To be able to give and receive love, we need to be ceaselessly turning our lives over to the Divine to direct and guide us toward whatever is within us that needs healing.  

With the Moon in Leo square Jupiter in Cancer, we are further reminded how necessary it is that we face our fears, actively work to heal our wounds, and transform the way we are living, perceiving, and defining who we are and how we are meant to live and behave, and create. If we get too protective of ourselves, there is a danger of becoming tough or building up a shell to keep from perceived threats.  We need to buffer from some types of energy, however, when we are shielding ourselves from our own learning, we block our own good and growth.  We may find ourselves revisiting some old, unresolved issues, and finalizing some business, releasing certain energy, or changing our habits more mindfully as the Moon in Leo reactivates the Mars squares Jupiter (from April’s Grand Cardinal Cross).  We want to find balance between being protective and being overprotective. In order to move forward, we now have to be willing to release and stop acting out of old patterns of thought and behavior. When we have seen or felt  the truth of a situation for us, we cannot forget. 

Armed with the new understanding, we can either go on as before, but be living a lie based on an illusion, or we can equip ourselves for learning new lessons that will lead us forward. The struggle within us right now, is an essential one for our own spiritual growth and evolution. This is a period when you need to incubate new ideas before moving forward. This is the time of creation and incubation―a period when ideas, visions, and goals our forming within each of us. Look to the house/area of your life where the Leo Sun, the New Moon in Leo, and Jupiter in Leo are transiting, and that will indicate where the main focus of this New Moon is actively churning things up and infusing your with ideas, intuitive knowledge, energy, and visions.  Choose the life-affirming dreams, allow yourself to learn to more clearly discern what calls for your attention, and then allow yourself to sit in mindful presence of how you are being shaped, formed, and guided to the next stage of your life.

On this New Moon in Leo, with all the accompanying energy of the cosmos moving in harmony to help us lift ourselves and one another, onto a voyage of discovery, healing, creativity, and divinely inspired expressions of Love, Peace, and Truth. Whatever areas of our lives need healing, whatever desires, dreams, and intentions have merit and value, are now infused with the winds of grace to carry you forward.

New moons are always times of transition between what has passed and what lays ahead. At this time, a great spiritual awakening is possible for us to open our hearts and minds and spirits so that we may see how we are being called to use our gifts, talents, and lives. How have we come to serve others through our art, service, devotion, and care? We can come to understand this when we look to those places where we have been prepared. Where are the places where space has been created in our lives? 

Goethe describes the nature of grace as  filling “spaces that have been empty.” Where are the empty spaces―those places that have been cleared out, washed away, or devastated through loss of one type or another?  “Grace strikes us when we are in great pain and restlessness. . . .Sometimes at that moment a wave of light breaks into our darkness, and it is as though a voice were saying:  "You are accepted."

Sri Ramakrishna taught that, “The winds of grace are always blowing, but you have to raise the sail to catch it.”  At this auspicious New Moon in Leo,  we raise our sails with the faith that we will receive what we need when we need it. We will be given grace for today, and we will step out in trust that we have what we need to create a more compassionate, peaceful as we heed the words of the ancient prophets (Isaiah, Hosea, Joel, Micah, Zachariah as they  continuously delivered the Word of God  as instructions to “beat [our] swords into plow shares, and [our] spears into pruning hooks; nation shall not lift up sword against nation, neither shall they learn war any more.”

While we might feel overwhelmed as we witness the cruelties, abuse, injustices, intolerance, and violence that we humans use against one another, we need to be reminded at this particular time, that we each have the seeds of peace within us. We have the power to love and live from a place of peace and compassion within.  Thoughts and words are energy, and both carrying powerful ideas wherever they are sent. Our thoughts work like water within us, either to quench a thirst or to erode our gifts and blessings. Thoughts and words  work their way into our individual  consciousness and physical being, as they also work their way into our collective consciousness. 

During these times  we live in, we find it difficult to see how we can have any effect on the harm being done to others. We find no answers to why humans perpetrate violence against one another.  This time is   when it is vital that we set our intentions to high ideals, as we send our thoughts, words, deeds to where they are needed, and send out intentions on sacred missions. Use your power, gather your strength, screw up your courage, and send out prayers and meditations that bless and heal those in need, that honor the sanctity of life, and that trust that good outweighs bad and love is stronger than fear. Do the healing you need to do within yourself, and use the energy of the Leo New Moon, and this lunar month of Leo energy, to fire up your desires, strengthen your commitment, and open up to receive the blessings and grace that comes to you daily, helping shine a light and lift you to be your strength wherever your journey leads you. 

Our lives are abundant with opportunities to grow in soul, mind, spirit, and heart. What we tend to in our lives, helps us on the journeys we take to meet life where it happens. How we equip ourselves for each part of our day, depends on what we are willing to pay attention to. Seek some time and find a quiet, still place where you can go within and listen. Where you can watch the world around you, and where you can find the connections you need to support you. Receive the gifts and graces that come your way, and show gratitude, practice forgiveness, and celebrate each moment as a gift the the Divine. 

While I wrote this, I watched as the starry night sky gave way to the first streams of dawn's light, and then to the vivid colors of the day, the birdsong, and the movement of life, awaking, renewing, and restarting. Embrace the life you have been given, and  live your gift of life in ceaseless thanksgiving.

“Give us grace for today; feed the famished affections.” Mary Baker Eddy (translation of the line “Give us today our daily bread” from the Our Father).

Pivotal Time: Saturn turns direct, Sun enters Leo, Mars enters Scorpio, New Moon in Leo--a big week ahead

Another big week ahead. We start the week off with the Moon in Libra conjuncting Saturn, about ready to station and turn direct in Libra today, July 20 (11:41 PDT/2:41 EDT). After major shifts last week, this week is full of more. The Sun changes signs, leaving Cancer and entering Leo, and the week ends with the New Moon in Leo on Saturday, July 26. This is sure to be an active, busy, and tumultuous week.

Saturn’s transit through Scorpio will make its annual turn into direct motion within hours of my writing this column. On Sunday, July 20 the Great Teacher, will go direct.  Through hard work, pressure, deep-seated awakenings, and the urge, indeed compulsion, to master those areas of life that are calling to be mastered.  Saturn is a serious sort, and Saturnian energy sits heavy on our shoulders and tugs at our heart strings. When Saturn turns direct, all that you have been building, envisioning, and shaping rises to higher levels of excellence through persistence, hard work, and strong focus. Look to the house where Saturn has been transiting to determine what area of your life receives the benefits of Saturn’s hand of mastery. Whatever area of your life and your chart Saturn aspects, will receive the extra push, challenge, or pressure.  Whatever part of your life Saturn affects, you will notice a need to put things right―create greater congruence and  live more authentically.

Saturn reached 23 degrees of Scorpio before it turned retrograde, and it has retreated back to 16 degrees. It will turn direct at 16 degrees and push forward.  While Saturn is in Scorpio, it makes challenging aspects to Taurus, Leo, and Aquarius.  Saturn’s transit through Saturn has been a helpful and productive time for those with water sign planets, and for those areas of your chart where water signs rule. Any planet between 16-23 degrees also is affected, and these degrees of Scoropio have been receiving the strongest energy as we move toward this pivotal time.  I’ve been feeling this pressure building up for the last few days. One of the best ways to handle the pressure is to take a two-pronged approach. Tackle the hard work at hand, one little piece at a time while getting proper rest, nutrition, exercise, and relief from stress and anxiety. Stop fighting yourself and the circumstances, expecting things to change that aren’t or won’t change. Instead, tackle what is at hand and take care of business. This is no time to sit and ponder how we can get out of doing something that needs to be done, finish something that is waiting to be finished, or getting started on a long project that has to be started in order for you to achieve your goals and fulfill your dreams. Stop rationalizing, putting off, or throwing yourself into other people’s ideas about who you should be or what you should be doing. You know what is right for you, and now is the time to stand in your own truth, live honorably and with complete authenticity, and move ahead with the life awaiting you. 

Give yourself a way to keep track of major changes, plans, decisions, or projects.  For example, I’m working on three major projects, and am keeping a log of all my projects. This enables me to set goals and objectives, outline deadlines and target dates, and to write down what I have completed, and what needs to be done. Use a calendar to outline goals, make your lists, or do whatever it is that helps you envision your plans and keep track of your progress. Whatever you are beginning now under Saturn’s forward motion, is major and requires that you enter into the process fully alert, well rested, focused, and nourished.  

As we feel the pressure building for Saturn’s pivotal moment when it turns direct on Monday, we may also want to be aware that the Moon in Libra is building up to a conjunction with Saturn on Monday as well. 

Saturn’s forward motion has the benefit of Jupiter’s movement into Leo. Jupiter just entered Leo, the dramatic, action-packed sign that showers whatever you are doing for the next year, with blessings, good fortune, expansion, and forward-moving energy. Jupiter moved from its transit in watery Cancer (focused on safety, security, focused on survival needs and creating a comfortable home) into fiery Leo. Jupiter bestows blessings, gifts, abundance, and expansion. Since Leo is all about acting out of desire, Jupiter may bring the feeling for some of us, of having too much energy, and not enough time, space, energy, resources to handle it. This period requires the ability to temper our actions, thoughts, and energy. It is also a time when it is vital to actively seek balance in body, mind, emotions, and spirit. 

Jupiter, in the early degrees of Leo, forms two special aspects this week, first with the Sun in the early degrees of Leo, and then with the New Moon in Leo on Saturday. This is an auspicious time for whatever it is we are setting into motion. Whatever we are setting out to receive energy and to be activated, now receives new growth, expansion, and improvement. 

Another beneficial aspect this week is the nearly exact trine between Saturn in 16 degrees of Scorpio and Chiron in 17 degrees of Pisces. The Great Teacher, Saturn, is in harmonious alignment to Chiron, the Wounded Healer―both in water signs where they have the greatest impact and influence on our spiritual, emotional, psychological, and energetic nature.  The major areas of learning in our lives right now are helping us discern those parts of our lives where we need healing.  Whatever seems most challenging will give you some hint as to where Saturn and Chiron are creating a healing balm through experiences, dreams, mental upset and confusion (significant signs pointing toward what is broken or wounded within us), not to mention demands, drives, and urges. Learning to discern what we need to pay attention to, what we may need to alter or eliminate, and how best to behave, adapt, or seek greater clarity, is essential now. Discernment is a process of continually seeking authenticity, Divine direction and insight, and changing our perceptions, actions, and attitudes in order to follow the path we are pursuing. 

The Sun changes signs on Tuesday, July 22, moving from Cancer to Leo. Time for more dramatic activities, and a time when we do everything with more flare and playfulness.  Everyone seems to want to be a star during Leo times, so just notice where your ego may be a bit overactive at times (vanity and selfishness can be the shadow sides of Leo).  Leo focuses on the individual, and on finding ways of expressing the self and showing one’s prowess. 

Mars is also changing signs this week, entering Scorpio from July 25 to September 13. Mars in Scorpio seeks to have its own way. Along with all the pressure of Saturn, the expansion and growth of Jupiter, Mars in Scorpio adds a hefty dose of perseverance, focus, and strength. We are less threatened by the hidden or unexplored elements of our nature and that of others, and more willing indeed fascinated by the exploration of the deeper issues and elements of our own psyches and the psyches of others. We can dig deeply, learn a great deal, and benefit from some powerful understandings  We have more tolerance for the darker or wounded areas of our being, and we learn from others how we influence, hurt, misunderstand, and judge others through our own wounds and weaknesses.  While there may be more crises in our lives at this time, we rise to the occasion, handling issues, conflicts, challenges, and problem areas with more forthcoming, vigor, and clarity.

Venus in Cancer trines Neptune in Pisces on July 22-23. This may seem like a magical time, when serendipity and romance place before our feet, exactly what our hearts desire. We see the world and everyone in it through the lens of compassion, and we are kinder, more generous, and loving to ourselves and others. On July 27-28, Venus forms an opposition to Pluto in Capricorn―a stressful time when we may feel overwhelmed emotionally. Fear, insecurity, and the remnants of abuse may seep into our experiences. 

Monday. Uranus in Aries, stations and turns retrograde (7:53 PM PDT; 10:53 PM EDT). When in retrograde motion, Uranus become more Uranian.  In direct motion, Uranus sparks our intuition, and we can rely on a steady flow of inner knowledge, serendipitous events, and synchronistic occurrences. When Uranus is retrograde, the energy and intuitive knowledge builds up and bursts forth in creative and fantastic visions and ‘aha!’ moments. This adds to the movement of Mars and Saturn in Scorpio that are waking up the unconscious elements of our being. Our desire to know more, go deeper, and understand more fully increases by leaps and bounds. This is an excellent time to make progress on exploring our deeper selves, of allowing our imagination and intuition to guide us, and to spend time envisioning plans, solutions, creative, and artistic visions, dreams, and goals. 

While this can be a very fruitful and productive time, it can also raise some issues that you may want to address. When Uranus is retrograde, whatever areas of your life need altering, changing, healing, are all actively being processed internally. This may not make sense, and may lead to feelings building up which will seek release. We recognize how we have been working against our own good, or have been bucking the different systems that we find constraining and limiting. This struggle is more about what is going on within ourselves, than at other times. During this retrograde phase, notice how you are repressing your own needs and desires, and how you are projecting that on other people and situations that really have little power over you. Our need for freedom is heightened wherever Uranus transits, and this is where we can learn and discern what needs changing. This is not necessarily the best time to make sudden or drastic changes. When Uranus turns direct, whatever we have processed, learned, and discerned can unfold more smoothly. This transit is really about learning to ride with the energy of the time.  Learn to know when it is best to sit still, and when it is time to act. When too many things are blocking your progress, or when you have rationalized or procrastinated, look to that place within you that is resisting or responding to deeper intuitive understanding.  When things aren’t working out in some area, there is usually something signaling that the time is not right or the red flags are to warn you. Work with the flow of energy instead of against it. Look within for the questions, the information, the answers, and the advice, and then notice how the Divine guides, guards, and governs the life you are living. It is a matter of ebb and flow, give and take, push and pull.  Our lives are dynamic, and we have to be more fluid in how we flow between different stages of life, different types of energy, and in different types of energy.

Tuesday. At 11:47 PM PDT on Monday/2:47 AM EDT on Tuesday, Mercury opposes Pluto. The energy around all forms of communication is powerful, strong, and in need of an outlet. This stress aspect can lead us into obsessive thoughts, cause disruptive sleep and nightmares, and find us seeing conspiracies and deceit around every corner. Taking things too personally, or taking communication out of context, can lead to confusion, misunderstandings, and disruption. This aspect affects us more on an emotional level than in regard to activities. We make things worse than they are, we see things through the worst possible lens, and we create a storm of confusion within―-that is if we go into this aspect unaware. By noticing the extremes and unbalanced ideas that are cropping up, we can counter the excessive and obsessive thinking. 

In the early afternoon, the Sun enters Leo, shining some light into dark places. On Thursday, the Sun conjuncts Jupiter in the early afternoon (1:44 PM PDT 4:44  PM EDT), raising energy, confidence, and lifting our spirits. We feel more energetic and encouraged to act on what gives us life and fulfillment. A bit later, Mercury square Uranus heightens our senses, and stimulates our intuition, imagination, and intellect.  We lack patience for the routine and mundane tasks of daily life. We are stimulated by new ideas, and find ourselves needing a break and little more time to integrate new concepts, plans, and changes into projects that are already in process. A good time to put off making final decisions or presenting ideas as you may not be able to present your plans in a cohesive, unified manner. A couple of hours later, Mercury trines Saturn, and our ideas seem clearer and our communication skills are sharper. If you took the time to pause earlier in the day, you may find that you can get back to whatever plan, project, or conversation demands your attention. The timing and the clarity is much better with even a bit of a break. When we take a little extra time to process and rest, we are able to present our ideas from a sounder, firmer base.

The New Moon in Leo on Saturday.  I will write about the new moon later in the week.

Out from the depths, into the light

To Each His Own                                                                             Catherine Al-Meten

We begin the new week under the influence of the Capricorn Full Moon. The fullness, activity, and energy generated by this powerful full moon, may have left us feeling exhausted or exhilarated, depending on how we experienced movement and the general life processes over the last day or so. When shifts take place in any area of our lives, we do best when we acknowledge that we are part of a much larger and interconnected pattern of energy and purpose. Individually, we have the limitations of time, space, age, skills, talents, and intention, all that help us define who we are. Each life is independent of another, yet we form interdependent relationships and seem to running back and forth on the teeter totter of life trying to find a harmonious balance.  

In seeking balance, I much prefer the analogy of riding a surf board, for that seems more apt to what life is really like. The powerful force of the ocean, lifting and tossing one tiny being on a board, back and forth, up and down, high and low.  When you fall off the board, you have to let go and become one with the depths of the sea, and find a place which will carry you safely to shore. Our search for meaning in life, brings some of us to use astrology as a way to look for some guideposts. 

Using the guideposts is up to each of us, and discovering and finding meaning within oneself, is a singular act done in the company of family, friends, and a multitude of other. This next week or so, we enter a tunnel that lifts us from a deep place of inner awareness up into the light of consciousness where we get to try out our new surfboard, roller skates, or whatever form of transport suits your imagination.  However you choose to make changes, adapt to life, or dream up a new plan, you have all the gifts and tools you need. 

We might remember  that it is not so much what we have or what we do or what good fortune comes our way or not, but how we envision, dream, and view life that really shapes us. Gandhi once noted: “Man[We] often becomes what he[we] believes himself[ourselves] to be. If I keep on saying to myself that I cannot do a certain thing, it is possible that I may end by really becoming incapable of doing it. On the contrary, if I have the belief that I can do it, I shall surely acquire the capacity to do it even if I may not have it at the beginning.” 

Mercury enters Cancer, leaving behind the heady, frenetic energy of Gemini. We focus more on the quality of our experiences and expressions than we do the quantity. We narrow our focus to those areas, relationships, needs, and desires that we have identified as priorities in our lives. We deepen our understanding and expression of whatever we are involved with, and now experience life on a much deeper level. Whatever has become a priority for us, now takes on a higher quality of care, attention, and focus. We might have found ourselves caught up in a whirlwind of experiences, conversations, and contacts with Mercury in Gemini—much more social and interactive than we will be with Mercury in Cancer. 

With Mercury in Gemini what caught our attention, took our time and energy, and demanded our involvement, or forced us to make changes seems to have been in the area of ideas, new connections, or external and less personal. Where we may have been caught up in all kinds of new ideas and opportunities to expand our world, we now find our focus shifting to the more personal and immediate realm of our personal lives. 

Mercury in Cancer now takes us on a more personal journey, and involves us on a deeply emotional level of our own life experiences. We are deeply concerned and involved in our homes, our families and close friends, and with protecting, preserving, and nourishing ourselves and those with whom we are most closely connected. With Mercury in Cancer, we are more in tuned to our need for personal safety, security, comfort, nourishment, and balance within the daily context of our lives. 

Venus remains in Gemini for five more days, entering Cancer on Saturday, July 18. In its final days in Gemini, Venus continues to spark our curiosity and fill us with endless ideas and attractions. We find ourselves bemused by a wide array of interests, new ideas, and possibilities. It’s as if we are being woken up to deep-seated needs, but only on a superficial level. We notice what attracts our eye, heart, and head, however, our attentions has been flitting from one idea to another, one potential connection to the next, like a bee gathering honey. 

In the final few days of Venus’ transit through Gemini, notice what has been calling for your attention, rather more consistently than other things. Notice what has touched you on more than a superficial level, and prepare for Venus’ movement into Cancer where you can begin experiencing  your desires on a deeper and more meaningful level. Venus will be in Cancer, a water sign, until August 12, and all things romantic and love-related will find fertile ground for new growth. 

We find ourselves more deeply connected to those we love, and to our own sense of what is deeply moving, meaningful, and right for us. Love is a felt experience when Venus is in Cancer, and we live have the opportunity to do more than ponder its meaning or wonder if love will find us. We discover the deeply rooted nature of how we love and who we are truly connected with.  Love is not an intellectual exercise nor is it a psychological puzzle, when Venus transits Cancer. 

Love is who you are and how you relate, particularly in the area of your chart/life that is ruled by Cancer and those areas that form  important aspects with Venus.  With Neptune and Chiron continuing their transits in Pisces, and the Sun and Jupiter still in Cancer, the water signs (and the houses they rule) are being very strongly aspected. Deep healing and intuitive knowledge is brewing within your subconscious and unconsciousness.  In ways that your mind has not yet comprehended, you are evolving on deep levels where old patterns, past memories and influences, and new aspects of yourself are rising to into your awareness. Notice what is moving into your consciousness (through dreams, everyday experiences, insights and signs, and through connections and awakenings that you are now experiencing.  

When we can let go of trying to hold ourselves in a stable but stagnant pattern of thinking, behaving, or living, we have the opportunity to grow in ways where we are more open to creativity, insight, growth, and intuitive development. This is a verdant time for growth and deepening in our ability to both give and receive love.

Venus’ transit through Cancer is not just a light-hearted, airy, fairy, prance through the garden of love. It signals a time when we go deep into our hearts and souls to find connection and long-lasting, meaningful relationships—the kind that feed us body, mind, and soul.

Mars is in the final two weeks of its long transit through Libra. This transit has found Mars, the planet of action and energy, slowed down and traveling the murky waters of indecision and ambiguity. We waver back and forth between one idea and another, seemingly unable to find the full force of energy needed to complete or focus on any one choice or option. The problem with Mars in Libra is that it does not lessen our feelings or the energy behind our need for action, but it does sent that energy into a rather suppressed or closed in part of consciousness. What often happens when Mars’ energy is suppressed is we go into the shadow side and begin behaving in a passive-aggressive manner. In some ways, we have learned to soften our rough edges in order to make progress, win debates, or meet challenges. However, we may also have felt hampered, hedged in, or blocked from moving forward in some areas.  

Before July 25, use the remaining period of this transit to go over any details, relationship issues, plans, or options we still need to consider or reconsider. Much of the energy of Mars in Libra has been in the area of how we maintain a sense of personal autonomy while maintaining healthy relationships. This transit has been about  managing conflicting needs and desires, the struggle to maintain balance in our intimate relationships while finding ways  to grow and thrive as individuals. This process is not something that is ever ‘in balance’—rather balance is about getting used to and honoring the ride. The times we need to focus on whatever relationships we are in and the times when we need to honor our personal needs.

On Sunday, July 13 as I write this column, Venus in Gemini  and Mars in Libra form a beautiful trine. This lends itself to  playful, sweet, and flirtatious interactions. There may be playful banter or  exchange of a  sweet and pleasurable nature. This aspect signals sexual attraction and fertility.  It is also a great time for starting something new in the relationship area of your life.  What is attracting your eye? What is sparking your imagination? Who has touched your heart, and sent chills up and down your spine?  Notice what is waking up inside of you, and who or what may be moving into your sphere of life. 

Another big astrological event of this week is Jupiter’s entrance into Leo. Moving from the watery depths of Cancer where it has been for the last year, Jupiter now soars into the realm of fire.  The uplifting and fiery energy of Jupiter in Leo  At 3:30 AM PDT on July 16, Jupiter enters Leo. Wherever Leo transits, it shines its light on those areas of your life where you have new opportunities, and where you faith will feel bolstered with the confidence you need to make your dreams come true through that optimism.  Jupiter is the largest planet in our Solar System. 

Wherever Jupiter shines in your chart, you find that blessings and benefits pour into your life.  Jupiter signals expansion—of consciousness, life experience, thought, and heart. Jupiter rules philosophy and higher thought, and reigns over expansion and abundance. Jupiter colors whatever is strongest in our ideas, ideals, and in all areas that color and influences our perceptions and perspective. 

The lens through which we view and relate to the world is strongly affected here. What we think and believe becomes what is expanded. The power of our thoughts, be they positive or negative, is the most powerful tool we hold, and Jupiter is a fire sign will unfold just how we will use the power of our consciousness. The shadow or unhealed side of Jupiter, is the tendency to exaggerate, distort, become over confident or remain naive to daily realities  and to the force and strength of the Unconscious.  Without a grounding in something stronger and greater than our individual limitations and boundaries, we become trapped in our own thinking, belief system, outworn or undeveloped patterns of behavior and living.  

Jupiter  calls upon each of us to pay attention to how we are presenting ourselves to the world. What message are we telling each time we speak? What story are we telling about who we are whenever we talk or present  ourselves to others? How are we perceived, and what message are we sending out. How do we honor ourselves and one another? We are also called upon to confront and rid ourselves of negative programs, thinking, habits, and perceptions. Jupiter recognizes Divine Abundance. There is more than enough for everyone, when we share and let the energy flow. When we hoard, hide ourselves, cover our beauty and goodness, or become misers with our resources, love, and goodness, we withhold our part of the natural flow of energy. We block our own good and goodness. 

Poverty thinking works on all levels of our being. It makes us misers of our energy, talents, gifts, resources, and love. Jupiter is entering a new area of our lives to wake us each up to the responsibility we have to treat ourselves and one another with more grace, with greater generosity, and with a deeper level of love.  We reflect on the outside of our appearance, what is going on within us.  When we recognize depression, lack of joy, or a depletion of love in another, we might want to look in the mirror to see if that is what is missing or in need of repair in ourselves. Sometimes when things are falling apart around us, we need to do an inventory of our inner strengths and gifts. We need to wash up, try out a new hair do, or add some color and sparkle to our appearance. When we are down in the dumps (get that image in your mind….imagine being down in the dump!), we know we need to climb out of that dark hole and clean things up. 

Sometimes just making some superficial changes, taking care of simple hygiene, tossing out some old ratty clothes, recycling those 10-year old  clogs (yes, I finally gave them away), and dressing up. Take some positive action to change your outlook, the way your are coming across (if that is out of line with what you really feel, believe, or want to express.  And as my Godmother Dorothy would say, “Act as if….”  Using 'act' to mean 'behave' not 'to pretend', behave according to what you feel and believe. For example, if I believe you are worthy of being happy, act as if you were happy. How do you do this? Think of one action that makes you happy, and then do it. Then do one more. 

Act as if you felt better than you do. For example, think of a time when you were ill or very depressed. One of the first signs that you are improving is when you finally get out of your smelly PJ's and take a shower or brush your hair and get dressed in some clean clothes. Simple acts, but acts that indicate we are taking care of ourselves. For those who say that appearances do not matter, I say that’s nonsense. Your appearance may not matter to you, and you can wear the oldest, rattiest shirt or dress in your closet, but that act sends a message that you do not care to take care of yourself. It says you don’t consider yourself worthy of looking and feeling good. 

And when we habitually complain that we ‘can’t do or be or have’ something, we announce to the world, to ourselves, and to the general energy of the Universe, that message.  Change happens in our thinking, in our behavior, and in our relationship to the world when we alter the way we operate on each level. Sometimes the change comes from within and is reflected outward. Think of those times someone complements you on the energy you project or how happy you look. It shines from the inside out. Other times, the struggle within, reflects outwardly as a downcast or a slovenly or lackluster , or as  whiny, negativity.  How to change this? 

Act as if you had all the resources you need. Act as if you were glad to be alive. Act as if you were capable of being loved and loving with all your heart.  Try some reprogramming of the old tapes that are dragging you down or are no longer appropriate for who you are and what you want to express, experience, and extend into the world. Look to the house where Jupiter is transiting for the next year, and start making some declarations. Declare yourself free from what no longer feeds, nourishes, heals, inspires, or serves you. Declare yourself independent of limitations, limiting thought and behavior, and then start acting as if it were true. 

In Shakespeare’s play, Hamlet, the Hamlet, calls Denmark a prison. He uses the metaphor of a prison to describe feeling trapped and confined under the pressure and spying of the King of Denmark and his spies. Hamlet aptly describes how we can create a prison for ourselves through our thoughts and words. In speaking of his plight to one of his two friends from university, Hamlet says:

Hamlet:

A goodly one, in which there are many confines, wards, and

dungeons, Denmark being one o' the' worst.

Rosencrantz:

We think not so, my lord.

Hamlet:

Why then 'tis none to you; for there is nothing either good or

bad, but thinking makes it so. To me it is a prison.

Hamlet Act 2, scene 2, 239–251

As Jupiter enters Leo this week, we are fresh off a year of deep-seated focus on what it is that makes us fee free and what it is that enslaves us. In Leo, Jupiter will act upon us to loosen the chains of false belief, negative thinking, poor sense of self worth, and other limiting thinking. We will have many opportunities to put thought into action, action into thought, and move more mindfully and consciously away from whatever prisons we have created to dull our senses, tie up our energy and resources, and block and challenge our delight in living. It is a year to grow in ways that allow you to honor your gifts, take care of yourself, and use your time, energy and resources to express your best and highest self in whatever you do. 

It takes Jupiter 12 years to cycle through all the houses in your chart. Think about what was going on 12 years ago, and you may have some indication of where and how Jupiter may show up this next year. Jupiter in Cancer has been focusing attention on safety, security, keeping the home fires burning, and maintaining a sense of comfort with home and family. Jupiter is the ruler of the 5th house (though it probably isn’t in your 5th house). Its realm is love, pleasure, children, creativity, and all forms of enjoyment. Jupiter enhances our sense of enjoyment and we may find ourselves being more social than usual. What Jupiter is really lighting up is our sense of enjoying life and the people in our lives. We may feel a more overwhelming sense of relaxation. We may feel more positive and optimistic. This is a highly fertile time—babies, ideas, imagination. Jupiter, ruled by Sagittarius, is at home in fire. It is an excellent time for anyone working in the performing arts, or wanting to enhance and expand their image in the public eye. Jupiter is the sign of royalty, and attracts influential, charismatic, and highly supportive people/influences. Be aware that this sign also attracts a lot of attention to whatever area of your life it is transiting. Jupiter’s presence in Leo will help anyone whose Sun or Ascendant is in Leo. This transit will soften the effects of Saturn in Cancer’s square to the Leo Sun.   

The energy of the Sun in Cancer since the Summer Solstice, has taken us into the deeper realms of our unconsciousness and our emotions. For the next two weeks, beginning with Mercury’s entry into Leo, we enter a two-week period that is like a tunnel of energy, puling us out of the depths of inner turmoil, retrospection, retreat, and discernment, into the light of Leo’s energy. The last two weeks of July will be lighter,and may leave us feeling more uplifted and happy than we have been. We feel as if a great burden has been lifted off our shoulder, While we may wonder what, if anything we have accomplished, the real growth, learning, regeneration, and awakening has taken place within over the last year or so. 

With all the larger planets transiting the water signs, we have had a heavy dose of soul searching going on, and much of what has been growing and developing is beneath our conscious understanding.  For those who have to figure everything out, take a break. Relax, let go. If your back or hop or neck are signaling that you have overdone it, get some rest and take time to heal. Allow joy, pleasure, and the sheer enjoyment of taking the next breath and enjoying life served on the plate before you to be your guiding light for now. 

Jupiter’s time in Cancer, intensified he Uranus-Pluto square, forcing us to face situations and complex needs, and in many cases, forcing us to make changes we may have resisted mightily.  We have turned the corner, and now have a period of rebuilding ahead of us. We have probably been more connected to our emotions, and in many cases, able to express emotions that may have been deeply buried or that signal significant and vital truth about who we are and what is true for us. Jupiter’s time in Cancer has strengthened our spiritual understanding and has given us some new tools for weathering crises.

Also later in the week, Saturn in Scorpio, which has been retrograde since March 2, stations to turn direct on Sunday, July 20. Birth, death, sexuality, transformation, joint finances and inheritance, and public reputation are all issues related to Scorpio. And the energy in water, is active and alive within the deep levels of the consciousness. Since March, in its retrograde phase, Saturn, the Great Teacher, has highlighted the areas that need to be awakened within to deal with and confront the issues facing us that keep us from positive transformation. We have been revisiting areas that needed further uprooting and focus, and now we move forward with a clearer sense of what is needing to be changed and transformed. And, because this is unconscious material, it is outside our complete control, and depend upon our ability  to trust our intuitive knowledge, to rely on Divine Guidance, and to get out of our heads and let loose the reins of control. 

Jumping ahead a bit, next Monday, July 21, Uranus goes into its retrograde phase. Uranus has been in Aries since March, 2011. It will be in its annual retrograde cycle from that point until December 21, the Winter Solstice. Going back over, bringing up the past, redefining and shocking us into awakening to our true nature, Uranus’s retrograde cycle takes us journey of self definition. This is a period of inequity crisis (individually and collectively). This seems to be one more of those cycles calling us to reexamine old beliefs, values, systems, and choices. It is a period for shedding old skins, rethinking and reforming plans, and of digging more deeply into who we are meant to be and how we are living in accordance with our soul call. 

This should be an interesting week, and we should notice a definite change of energy.  Notice how you feel physically emotionally, mentally, and be that quiet observer watching to see how the way you live, the story you tell yourself and others, and the what you truly desire are in harmony or discord. Enjoy the period of releasing and letting go. Joy in life’s simple pleasures, and find ways to express your love and  gratitude to others. Take care of yourself. Get rid of the ratty old stuff blocking energy in your closet and life, and make space for something new, fresh, and loving to come in.