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1/8/2023

August 2023 Forecast

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Venus continues its retrograde and moves into combustion (disappears from our evening skies) from the beginning of August. It will not return to our early morning skies until the end of August, after which it will have been through a process of purification.

Venus retrogrades back to Sidereal Cancer by Aug 7, back over the sensitive juncture between fiery Leo and watery Cancer. As it does so whilst entering combustion, this adds further volatility; to weather patterns; to the economy; and in diplomatic relations. This will likely shake the world in the coming months.

July and August is setting the stage for an economic downturn; perhaps because of some adjustment that are rushed through by leaders who attempt to maintain control. The last time Venus did this in this section of the zodiac was in 2015, when we saw Greece's economy tank. The time before that, in 2007, saw the Fed put billions into the U.S. financial system to steady volatile markets. What happens in Jul/Aug of 2023 is likely to lead to a downturn by Oct/Nov.

Mars and Mercury transit together in Leo in August, as Venus looks for some comfort and safety from the heat in Cancer. As Mars ventures forward and into Virgo by Aug 18, Mercury then backtracks in Leo (retrograde) from Aug 23. All thoughts are on business and pleasure, as Mars pushes forward with an action plan in Virgo.

Once Mars enters Virgo, all the 'cruel' planets, Saturn, Mars, Rahu-Ketu, impact Aries in a powerful way, most likely leading to even more explosiveness. This is likely to play out more obviously in wars, but recent wildfires extreme weather events are also likely to continue. Yet Aries is also the most pioneering sign, which shows huge leaps forward in other realms. How this plays out for you depends on the specifics of your birth chart.

The Sun makes its way towards its yearly opposition to Saturn by the end of the month. This year, both the Sun and Saturn are strong in their own signs, Leo and Aquarius. The people will have their say; leaders will have theirs.

As all the faster-moving planets line up on one side of the zodiac, in Cancer and Leo, the slower, Pluto and Saturn, line up in Capricorn and Aquarius, in an opposition. This shows the need for safety and fun (Cancer and Leo), but also the dire situations and predictions (Capricorn and Aquarius).

We must keep things in perspective, of course. We must do what we can now, or perhaps redo what we must (Saturn in Aquarius), while observing any tendency to catastrophize. There may indeed be reason to think the worst, but if we are not withdrawing our negative projections from an imagined future, we are little help to anyone now.

Venus re-enters Cancer Aug 7
Venus' previous transit over the gap between Cancer and Leo, on Jul 6, is when the U.S. Federal Reserve announced a likely recession later this year. There is likely a lot of back and forth on this in the coming weeks as Venus moves back and over this juncture in August through October. I was sent a video by an economist recently. David Hunter expects a market ‘melt-up’ followed by a bust. Venus’ back and forth over this juncture reflects this.

Apart from the economic outlook, war is another important factor for Venus retrograde. Venus represents refinement, expressed in the world at large as diplomacy, and in our lives as good manners, enjoyments, and loving relationships. Diplomatic relations and personal relationships may be strained as Venus disappears into the rays of the Sun. More extreme storms, flooding, and fires are also likely as it does so between the watery Cancer and fiery Leo.

Personally, we are all asked to look at what or who we are attached to as Venus re-enters Cancer, and whether or not we should be. As always, Venus retrogrades are not the time to make any definitive decisions about anything to do with purchases and relationships. Keep an open mind about what is happening, if indeed, anything is. It may all just play out in your imagination without speaking to anyone about it. However, it is the prefect time to ‘have that talk’ with someone special. Just choose your moment; hopefully, when both of you are feeling relaxed and safe.

Look to the signs involved. This means looking at what Venus rules in your chart, counting initially from your rising sign to the signs Taurus and Libra. Then, look at Leo and Cancer, to see where all of this is playing out. If you have a good grasp of this, then look from your Moon sign. Only then should you also include your Sun sign, so you have all three points of interest: body (rising), mind (Moon), and soul (Sun).

Venus represents the arts. It's station opposite Saturn in Aquarius highlights the recent strike by actors and writers in Hollywood. Saturn is retrograde in Aquarius, reflecting this need to pull back recent technological advancements, or to at least regulate them in some way. As Venus slips back from Cancer to Leo, from an opposition to Saturn to one with Pluto, we may see some of these power struggles go underground for a time. Although it further intensifies the struggle, it may not be that obvious.

Venus will meet with the Sun by exact degree on Aug 13. As Venus is purified in its rays, we're likely to see further developments at this stage, more possibilities to change our relationships to people and things, but also more complications. Relationships are messy, aren’t they?!

Venus will return to our early morning skies by the end of the month. The return of Venus' visibility, yet its continued retrograde until Sep 4, is a tricky portion of the whole retrograde period. This is when one last temptation is thrown our way, as it were. We may see this play out globally as decisions made by economists and leaders that have long term consequences.

In our own lives, we must be mindful of Venus' transition, so we can use the time to purify our values and relationships. We can get clear about what is important to us throughout, as long as we are aware that a purification means burning some things. Just make sure you don’t burn all your bridges. Or do, I guess – if it’s in everyone’s best interest to move on.

Become a Patron!

Om Tat Sat

1/7/2023

July 2023 Forecast

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There's an emotionally damp start to July, as Mars enters Leo on Jul 1, while the Moon transits Scorpio. There's a lot of volatility during the first week, as a result.

Mars faces off with a retrograde Saturn in Aquarius, exact by Jul 21. This is where we may feel challenged to slow down after an initial flurry of activity. The Mars-Saturn opposition suggests we may struggle to be patient, especially as Rahu and Uranus in Aries look to Mars in Leo, promoting erratic and revolutionary impulses.

Venus follows Mars into Leo by Jul 6 but doesn't move into an exact opposition to Saturn due to it stationing retrograde by Jul 23. With Venus in the same sign as Mars, in opposition to Saturn and a trine to both Jupiter and Rahu, there's a lot to consider, and reconsider, with Venus-related things.

With all the 'big players' involved in what Venus is re-doing, there is no avoiding some major economic and diplomatic issues, as well as the adjustments we must make in our personal relationships, to people and things.

Mars in Leo Jun 30 - Aug 18
The heat - and pressure - is on, as Mars moves into Leo and an opposition to a retrograde Saturn. Thankfully, Mars moves out of its sign of debilitation. Yet this can create volatility, as the energy returns in spurts. The meandering nature of Cancer gives way to a more determined stance in Leo.

Mars' initial transit into Leo is more volatile and will likely set some things off that have been brewing of late. Any unrestrained release of energy is likely to be more destructive, with Saturn's influence bringing long-term implications.

While Mars much prefers Leo to Cancer any day of the week, its opposition to Saturn in Aquarius highlights a juxtapose position, between seemingly disparate parts. Previously, Mars had a strong aspect to Saturn but it didn't go the other way so much. Now, Saturn pushes back. We're likely to feel this through some sense of restriction. This is not a bad thing for Mars, as the more focus and restraint we have, the more we can acheive.

Saturn, on the other hand, does not benefit from Mars' pushiness. Structures that are already under review may feel our wrath when they don't change quickly enough.

Leo represents the self and self-aggrandizement; Aquarius reflects the needs of everyone. The Mars-Saturn opposition pits two things against each other: self-promotion vs doing what's best for everyone.

This is likely to play out in more dramatic ways around the world, and in power struggles within our relationships. Mars in Leo is determined to push forward, while Saturn in Aquarius is even more determined (retrograde) to push back.

If we can focus all our energy on specific tasks at a time, without scattering our attention, this can be more productive. If, however, we feel a surge of energy and forge ahead without due consideration, we'll probably feel something or someone asking us to pay more attention and slow down.

But there's a catch. Rahu and Jupiter are also strongly influencing Mars from its sign Aries, a trinal aspect, which spurs us on to act impulsively. Thankfully, Jupiter is getting clear about what we're doing and why, despite Rahu casting a shadow of doubt over proceedings of late. Rahu can at least bring innovations and exciting changes to what we're doing but it may make us feel less sure of ourselves when we're on the 'cutting edge'. Yet without new perspectives, we would never gain access to the new insights and ways of doing things.

The Mars-Saturn opposition may be full of tension, but how we each frame it in our minds will determine how we make use of it. One person may just feel tense and back down, while another may feel spurred on to do the necessary.

Whatever you do, make sure you are deliberate and focused. Try to let go of immediate outcomes in favour of the bigger picture, focusing as much on why you are doing what you are doing as getting it done.

Full Moon in Sagittarius (Pūrvāṣāḍha) Jul 3
This Full Moon in Sagittarius is called Guru Purnima, a time to pay homage to our teachers (gurus) on the Full Moon day (Purnima). I think it will be a pivotal time, in a pivotal month in 2023.

With Jupiter now moving away from Rahu, we're in a much better position to get clear about what is true, and how our beliefs shape our experience. A certain amount of questioning long-held beliefs is healthy. It gives us different perspectives. Yet too much questioning is likely to lead us astray.

Sagittarius is a fiery sign, one of the dharmic signs, representing our purpose and path in life. Though we all have specific paths to follow in a practical sense, spiritually it's simply about being present, which is the most practical thing we can do for ourselves. Because, well, that's all there is!

Gurus bring us to this awareness, one way or another. There may be many routes, but the destination is the same. And because the destination is the same for every single person, there is a comfort we experience when we are in the presence of a guru.

Travel, another signification of Sagittarius, is another way we can be more present. When we travel and see different cultures and countries, we no longer operate on autopilot like we do when in familiar surroundings and routines.

Whether you express Sagittarius through travel or learning, or both, this Full Moon is a time to give thanks to whatever and whoever has brought you to this present moment.

The Full Moon occurs in Pūrvāṣaḍha, meaning the 'former victorious'. It's a sharp lunar mansion, and often interpreted to mean 'declarations of war'. This is where Venus retrograde at the beginning of 2022 fueled the war in Ukraine. With this Full Moon, we may see a culmination. But we may also see a turning point, with Venus' next retrograde changing the direction the war takes.

Pūrvāṣaḍha is ruled by the goddess of the waters, which reflects a need for purification. Just as water reinvigorates, so too does this lunar mansion. It's probably the lunar mansion that epitomizes the sign Sagittarius more than any other, bringing a sense of optimism, exuberance, and joy. One of its symbols is the elephant's tusk, representing the ability to plough ahead and get through something, while another is a fan which is used to keep its passions cool.

Let us hope cool heads win out when it comes to this potential overheating Full Moon.

Illustration by Samir Mahmood

Venus in Leo Jul 6 - Aug 7 + Oct 1 - Nov 2
Venus moves over the gandanta juncture between Cancer and Leo by Jul 6. This is likely to create a wobble in the economy and/or a wobble in diplomatic relations.

You may find you have your own personal wobbles, in your personal values and relationships. You may question what or who is important to you. You may have good reason to.

This will especially be the case once Venus slows and stations retrograde by Jul 23 (more on this below). The beginning of July brings the first of three major wobbles as Venus backs up into Cancer again by Aug 7, before stationing direct and moving back over into Leo once last time by Oct 1.

Personally, we must be mindful of the potential of feeling unappreciated and taking it out on others, who may not be feeling our appreciation. It works both ways, of course.

Venus in Leo is not only looking for love, it wants to be adored by everyone. You may find yourself saying and doing things that express this need. You may see others doing so and react to them promoting themselves.

Recognize that we all seek love in different ways. If you have Venus in Leo from birth, you may prefer grand displays of love and affection, such as the gifts and romantic breaks, etc. You may wish to see it in a more obvious way, not just feel loved and cared for like in Cancer. Leo is more expressive and creative; more romantic, in a movie-type way.

Think about how you express love and ask yourself what is love. There is the love we think of when we say "I love you." But there is the Love that is our natural state of Being, which can be cloaked in all kinds of other feelings and labels. Hatred is Love in another form, for example. Anger is Love.

We all want love, but this is just a need to experience our true nature, which is LOVE!

Whatever way you express it, Venus in Leo is a time to be more expressive; at least until it stations retrograde. Then it's a time to recapture whatever you feel you may have lost.

Mercury in Cancer Jul 8 - 24
Mercury zips through yet another sign in July, moving through three different signs for the second month. It begins the month in its own sign, Gemini, before moving into Cancer, a more emotive and instinctual place, by Jul 8, finishing the month in Leo, where it will stay for much longer due to its upcoming retrograde in August (more on this next month).

With Mercury following Venus into a tailspin in Leo, we're likely to see a lot of backtracking in this are of our life. Whatever we have put in place at this point needs to be reassessed. We're likely to be at least a little hesitant in this areas we may otherwise proudly boast about.

Generally, we are likely to see leaders and governments review policies, including diplomatic and monetary ones. There is already an EU draft for a Euro digital currency that will be put into law in the coming weeks and months.

Before any of that, Mercury is in Cancer, asking us to look at how we feel. Mercury in Cancer gets us to think about what makes us feel happy and safe. It's about "rooting the mind in the heartfield", as Kishori says. The mind disconnected form the heart quickly runs out of ideas. When we're connected to the heart, our minds are illumined.

Yet Mercury in Cancer is not as effective in communicating. The heart wants what it wants, which may seem irrational at times. But you cannot argue with how you're feeling. It would probably serve you better to tune into how you feel, and speak about that as clearly as you can, accepting that words don't do it justice.

Better still, Mercury in Cancer asks you to 'listen to your heart', instead of trying to articulate every whim and fancy.

Mercury quickly moves on into Leo, either way.

Sun in Cancer Jul 16 - Aug 15
The Sun's entry into Cancer moves into an opposition to Pluto in Capricorn as it did last year. This year, Saturn is not directly involved by opposition. This may mean more freedom to enjoy some time off, at home or on holiday, without the restrictions of recent years.

Yet the Pluto opposition may be a vague threat that hangs in the air, hidden in the sub terrains of the mind. A vague sense of unease may fill the air, and the heart, even though there may be no evidence for why one feels that way.

The Sun moves into a square to the lunar nodes as it opposes Pluto, with the upcoming New Moon in Cancer further triggered them in all kinds of interesting and unnerving ways.

There may be obvious things happening in the world in terms of the ongoing war, for example. But even if there seems to be no obvious expression, Pluto and the lunar nodes represent something hidden in the psyche. Their square (see below) offers up insights from the depths of our subconscious, reflecting deeper changes within.

We have been sensing this build up for some time, and now with the Sun in Cancer, we feel it, too.

New Moon in Cancer (Punarvasu) Jul 17
The New Moon and lunar month begins in Punarvasu lunar mansion. Punarvasu means 'light again', representing a return to clarity as the Moon meets the Sun upon entering Sidereal Cancer.

Themes of repeating something is connected to this lunar mansion. We may experience this by seeing a repeating pattern in our lives, or by wishing something into begin that we wished for before.

This New Moon is ruled by Aditi, the goddess of infinity. When we can step out of our space-time reality, we can simply be; we can experience our wish instantaneously, without the time lag. Beyond space-time, our wishes and their manifestation are one and the same.

Punarvasu's symbol is a bow and arrows, reflecting our need to be precise in our thoughts, to direct them clearly to our target, while seeing them return in manifestations, seeing the repeating patterns that form our life experience.

A New Moon in Punarvasu is certainly a time to experience stillness of being, in whatever form we acheive it. Whether we consciously wish for anything or not, we are always sending out arrows of desire through our lived experience. This is reflected in the Moon, which shows our likes and dislikes. If something is not to your liking, the mere observation of it is enough to send another arrow of desire.

The Pluto opposition is the hidden part we may prefer remained hidden, on our trip down memory lane with this Full Moon. But it we acknowledge what lies beneath, including our fears of not having - or having - what we want, we can get clear and focused. Fear is at least a good focusing mechanism!

As always, the New Moon day is not the most auspicious to actually begin something new, although it is a time to intend it, to send out a clear message to the universe.

Combined with Mars' opposition to Saturn at this time, we can focus all our energy and attention on what we wish to start again.

Illustration by Samir Mahmood

Venus Retrograde Jul 23 - Sep 4
The last time Venus was retrograde in this section of the zodiac was in 2015, when Greece's economy went into a nosedive. We're likely to see some economic issues again this year. But there were a lot of other things that happened in 2015 that may be more positive in our current context, including changes in diplomatic approaches to the current wars.

The last Venus retrograde in 2021/2022 saw the beginning of the current war in Ukraine, so perhaps another retrograde may bring people back to some sort of talks? I'm not sure if that's wishful thinking on my part, but we do have Jupiter's aspect on Venus. We also have Rahu's, of course, so I don't want to raise false hopes.

Venus retrogrades are complicated at the best of times. For many, these are not the best of times. Yet this could be a 'double negative' for those who are already struggling. When something is not working out as preferred, a Venus retrograde can alter things and make them better.

This is something to think about in your own life, in your finances, and your relationships. Venus retrograde is a time to reassess what and who is important to you, to think more about these things, although it's not necessarily the best time to act on impulses that feel more urgent than they may appear.

It's kind of like the sticker on the sideview mirrors of cars: "objects in mirror are closer than they appear." Perhaps Venus retrograde should come with its own sticker: people are closer than they appear!

Whatever negotiations you go through in the coming weeks and months, make sure to be patient with yourself and others, as we all have to work out what's important to us, what will make us happy; what will make us feel cared for, loved, and appreciated.

You can care for yourself, of course, and appreciate the simple things in life. You don't have to wait for someone else to give you permission, as everyone works through their own issues. As Leo Sun and Moon, Madonna said in Justify my Love, "Poor is the man who's pleasures depend on the permission of another."

Read an article I wrote about this particular Venus retrograde, including for each sign, here: https://www.timelineastrology.com/venus-retrograde-914767.html

Mercury in Leo Jul 24 - Oct 1
Mercury stays longer in Leo because of its retrograde from Aug 23 to Sep 15, not leaving the sign until the beginning of October. With Venus stationing retrograde in the same sign, just as Mercury moves in, we are going to focus a lot of this area for the coming weeks.

Generally, Leo represents leaders, as well as our own ability to lead and inspire; to express ourselves and our unique talents. We all have this need. Even the most introverted individual has Leo and the Sun somewhere in their chart, highlighting a need to shine their light in the world. Sometimes, we hide behind others who seem to shine brighter, and, sometimes, we hide behind what we have to offer.

Whatever it is we do that lights us up, it's time to pay close attention to what you think (Mercury) and how you feel (Venus) about it. Mercury's slow down and retrograde in Leo suggests this could do with at least a little tweaking. We can learn to express ourselves better, more clearly, once we are clear about what we stand for.

Whatever plans you have already set in place in this area of your life, keep them as loose as possible initially. Mercury beings to slow down by August, and Venus has already begun to slow down from the beginning of July, stationing retrograde as Mercury enters the sign. We're all about to take a deep breath in and review something important.

The world is likely to experience this as major reviews in governments, including diplomatic and monetary policies that must be altered to meet the new terrain. We may see a lot of bluster and bravado coming from those who are more visible.

Venus in Leo may be a bit boastful, but try too hard for admiration and you don't get it. Heck, we're unlikely to feel like we're getting it with Venus retrograde, anyway. Add Mercury into the mix and we might have plenty to say about it!

Remember, you are but a spark of the One. But your spark is no more or less important than anyone else's.

Pluto square Rahu & Ketu
This square is one of the slow burners (pun intended) in the summer of 2023. It's a very hidden dynamic and may not show up in your life experience in any obvious way.

Pluto and the lunar nodes are not visible to the naked eye. Their square in the movable signs, Aries, Libra, and Capricorn, brings a sense of things moving in a direction we may not consciously choose. Yet we must acknowledge our choice on some level if we are to rest easy with this one.

Knowing where the movable signs are placed in your birth chart, especially from your ascendant and Moon sign, you can get more of a handle on it. If not, you may not be on board with the changes that are happening, or the vague sense that something inevitable is occuring, while not knowing exactly how it's going to pan out.

By the time the Sun moves into Cancer, and an exact opposition to Pluto and square to the nodes by Jul 21, just as Mars and Saturn come into their exact opposition, you may have more of a sense of what's up, or what's coming up, from the depths of your subconscious.

Generally, the Pluto-Nodes square may seem fated in terms of worldly and personal affairs; in the ongoing war (Aries), in the economy (Libra), and in structures that keep us safe (Capricorn). With the Sun in Cancer, safety is most definently on the agenda, possibly because of things happening that are not.

Pluto changes things. In Capricorn, it is slowly changing the structures and systems we rely on. Yet Pluto is an often unnerving sense that all is not right and must change, even though we may not know how to change it. Add the nodes into the mix and you have even more uncertainty - and more change.

The ongoing wars, and general sense of angst, continues to trigger our fears of the worst. We can keep this in perspective, of course. Perhaps changing our perspectives is all that needs to change.

Pluto and the nodes remain in a tight square all summer due to Pluto's retrograde alongside the nodes, which retrograde all the time. By the time Mars makes it to meet with Ketu in Libra in October, the changes are likely to be more obvious, pushed out into our conscious awareness, whether we like it or not.

Best to get on board now, so we can adjust as needs be when the time comes.

-

Wishing you the best of what the month has to offer!

Om Tat Sat

1/6/2023

June 2023 Forecast

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Mercury moves on from Aries in June, entering Taurus by Jun 7. Before it's done with Aries, it conjoins Uranus at the threshold between both signs, in the 'sharp' lunar mansion Kṛttikā. We can use this bright spark conjunction to turn on a few light bulbs in our mind. There are likely some surprises as we begin to venture forward, but keep an open mind and you might be pleasantly surprised. Yet there may also be some potentially unnerving events around their exact conjunction by Jun 4. Whatever surprises are in store for you, this is an opportunity to use the frenetic energy to start something new.

It's worth stating that this is Uranus’ last year in sidereal Aries. The next time Mercury makes its way back to Aries in May 2024, it will meet with Jupiter and Uranus as they both move into Taurus. I include this now because whatever happens now, and for the rest of this year as Jupiter retrogrades through the same degrees Mercury did, it will bring us towards those changes. Keep your eyes and ears open throughout for new opportunities.

Another instigator for change, Rahu, is currently transiting alongside Jupiter, as it casts doubt on all the above, of course. Yet this instills an intense hunger for change, all the same.

Globally, this means further development in wars (Aries), eventually leading to bigger economic changes (Taurus). Next year is likely to see a complete overhaul of the current economic system, after a crash that is likely by the end of this year. By the time Jupiter and Uranus make it to Taurus in the summer of 2024, bigger changes are likely due.

Saturn’s continued aspect to all the planets in Aries is keeping things contained for now. If things do fall apart, there may be a rescue situation, although fear itself could add to the hesitation which could lead to further problems. Saturn represents the things we know we should do, but don't always get on board with right away.

Saturn itself stations retrograde by Jun 17 in Aquarius, halting long term plans around the necessary innovations. Alterations are necessary at this point. Whatever changes Saturn is slowly bringing about in this area of your life, and on the global stage, they're likely to go through some setbacks or attempts at rewinding some things. This is a time to reassess your commitment to whatever that is. The A.I. advancements and discussions are likely a reconsideration on the world stage. There seems to be a lot of fear around A.I. technologies, as reflected in Saturn's transit in Aquarius.

Venus moves into Cancer by the end of May and throughout June, catching up with Mars in a frustrated state as it moves towards its exact degree of debilitation. This latter part of Cancer can challenge us to shake off our comforts and attachments; to do what we must, despite how we feel.

Yet we may ruin a perfectly lovely thing when overreacting to any sense of threat. Cool heads are needed as Mars and Venus move through the sensitive degrees between Cancer and Leo by the end of June. Venus subsequently moves back over this juncture twice more later in the summer and autumn due to its retrograde. Economic volatility is likely. Reconsider any big spends or relationship decisions. Any overindulgences or expensive and impulsive purchases may need at least a second thought.

Join me on Sunday Jun 4 at 7pm BST for a discussion about the transits of June.

Here's the link to join the zoom meeting:
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/87202799906

Meeting ID: 872 0279 9906
Passcode: 718851

Venus in Cancer May 30 - Jul 6 + Aug 7 - Oct 1
Venus in Cancer is an interesting pairing. It's a complicated relationship in many ways. There are plenty of things to enjoy and indulge, of course, it's just that the Moon's impulse to care mixed up with Venus, to negotiate, can sometimes get confused. In Vedic astrology, Venus is said to 'block' Cancer. It's the 11th house ruler, and, counting from Venus to the Moon using the weekday order, it's 6 signs away.

This complex plays out more obviously in mothering vs romantic relationships. And you don't have to be a mother, or romantic, to have to deal with this complex. Co-dependent relationships and care for others that ends up feeling more like a parent child dynamic can be evident.

To add to the complexity is Venus opposing Pluto, exact by Jun 5. Venus then catches up with Mars at the end of the sign, adding fuel to fiery passions. This adds power struggles, which may look like wishing to care for someone.

Mars is not happy with Venus coming up from behind, draining its energy. It's already feeling spent having to consider feelings, but must now consider and compromise more.

Mars and Venus conjunct natally is an interesting mix of energies. If Mars is the accelerator and Saturn the break, Venus is your beloved distracting you from the passenger seat! If you're also trying to get where you want to get to as quickly as possible, their need for your attention and appreciation may be distracting.

We've all got somewhere we want to be, but we cannot get there alone, especially with Venus involved. We must compromise. If we think we can do it alone, we'll soon find we are on our own. So what if we get to our destination on time, if there no one else around to enjoy it with?

Best sit back a little on this Venus and Mars transit in Cancer and enjoy the ride. Enjoy the meandering for a while, as it won't be long before Mars is focused once it moves into Leo. Venus, on the other hand, will slow down as it moves into Leo, before stationing retrograde and returning to Cancer later in the summer.

Venus' initial transit in Cancer will be revisited later this year, which means being open to lots more to reconsider; in our relationships, and finances. It enters its 'shadow phase' by Jun 19, moving past the point it will return to by Sep 3. It eventually leaves its retrograde zone by Oct 7. In this time, we will be reevaluating many things in our life, depending on what Taurus, Cancer, Leo, and Libra represent for us individually.

Globally, we're going to see a lot of reassessment of the economy, and what governments around the world do about the volatility that is possible. Relations may also be strained as these changes take place.

I'll write more about this important transit next month.

Rahu (True Node) conjunct Jupiter (Truth) Jun 1
If you thought this story had gone away, think again. Actually, if you think it has, you're more likely to be duped when you're not looking! The 'true node' conjoins Jupiter by the Jun 1, with the after effects of this likely felt for a long time to come.

The last time Rahu and Jupiter came together was in 2016, when decisions that were made back then still having a huge impact on how we live today. The potential for this conjunction to shake things up in Aries, in wars, and the economy, is high through the beginning of June.

Rahu tends to bring shocks and surprises. This is furthered because of its counterpart, Uranus also being in Aries, with Mercury approaching it at the end of the sign. The exact conjunct of Mercury and Uranus occurs by Jun 5. This is very much in the shadow of the Rahu-Jupiter conjunction.

Another observable trend that occurs when Jupiter and Rahu get together is the passing of many prominent figures. We've already seen the passing of Tina Turner, Barry Humphries, and Burt Bacharach, all Jupiterian in their own right. We're likely to see more pass in the summer.

Jupiter is Jivatman, life itself. Rahu is anti-life, in a way. Rahu obscures the life that is Jupiter. The passing of those who buoyed us up in some way, either through their teachings, their music, or their comedy, is highly symbolic at this time.

The fact that this combination occurs in the sign of war is another thing altogether. Expect the unexpected. And expect it to be explosive, both figuratively and literally.

Full Moon in Scorpio (Jyeṣṭhā) Jun 4
We had a lovely exalted New Moon a couple of weeks prior to this Full Moon in Scorpio. If we used it wisely and looked after the basics, we can 'go there' for a Full Moon in Scorpio. We can think up the worst case-scenario to help prepare our minds for what may happen.

The thing is, it very rarely happens the way it does in our darkest imaginings. And even if the worst was to happen, the fact that we spent so long worrying about it makes us less capable of dealing with it. This is more so indicated because of Mars' concurrent transit in Cancer, the Moon's sign. Although this is a major mitigating factor for a debilitated Moon and Mars, as if they were in their own signs post exchange, it is still a complex dynamic we must be mindful of overdoing.

The strength of Moon in Scorpio, exchanging signs with Mars, is that we can deal with the emotional reactions and temper them to do the necessary.

The Full Moon occurs in Jyeṣṭhā lunar mansion, which translates as 'eldest'. This refers to someone who has acquired skills and secret knowledge. As an elder, those with the sign prominent can sometimes feel overlooked and become bitter, although any bitterness can be used to propel one to even greater heights. This is reflected in Scorpio's ruler, Mars.

Jyeṣṭhā is ruled by Indra, the chief of the gods who likes to be in control. Its symbols are a talisman and umbrella, both symbolizing being initiated into secret knowledge and the protection it offers. Mercury's association with Jyeṣṭhā reflects the secret business dealings that are likely taking place during this Full Moon, especially when the Rahu-Jupiter conjunction takes place 6 signs away takes place - the 6th sign representing debts and enemies (hint, hint).

Personally, when the Moon transits Jyeṣṭhā, it's a good day for overcoming weaknesses, surgery, and secret activities. It may not be the best Full Moon for auspicious activities, unless you see getting over something or overpowering someone as auspicious, I guess.

It's a great time to overcome something you've been putting off, but be mindful of overdoing it, as Mars is still in Cancer until the end of June, where it's just not as effective or energetic.

Mercury in Taurus Jun 7 - 24
Finally, Mercury moves on from a jam-packed Aries and into a more stable environment in Taurus. A friendly welcome is, well, welcome, for sure.

Mercury is still under the shadows of Rahu in Aries and all the action taking place there, and we're probably going to need a bit of steadiness after the first few days of June. Mercury conjoins Uranus at the very end of Aries by Jun 5, as Rahu and Jupiter conjoin.

While all of these transits can be exciting, too much stimulation creates imbalances. Mercury in Taurus is about using sensual enjoyment to ground ourselves in what is real.

There are so many unreal situations occuring at this time, that Mercury's skip (Mercury's moving very fast in Taurus) through the sign can be an enjoyable experience, and stimulating in all the right ways.

Meeting friends in natural surroundings is probably one of the more positive expressions of Mercury in Taurus.

Sun in Gemini Jun 14 - Jul 15
The Sun's mid-month transition into Gemini is a time to enjoy others. Many do this by seeking out a festival or gathering. Many more, focus on their friends and neighbours, to enjoy a trip here and there.

It all sounds lovely. You're waiting for a 'but', aren't you?! No, I think that despite other transits, the Sun is at least out of more challenging aspects with other planets, and has moved beyond the shadows of Rahu.

Mercury joins the Sun by the end of the month and resets things in this part of our life. This means whatever area Gemini represents for you personally by house position, from your ascendant, and everything else (Moon, Sun, etc.), as well as travel, trade, communications in a general sense, will benefit from mid-June to mid-July.

Sex is another big part of Gemini that is not always acknowledged. Often only Scorpio is considered for such hidden things. Yet Gemini is more the flirtatious and playful part of courtship, before it gets all twisted in Scorpio! Just kidding. Scorpios have Gemini in the 8th house, so it's all fun and games.

Saturn Retrograde Jun 17 - Nov 4
Saturn's slow turnaround every year brings a need to slow down and pay attention to our long term plans; to consider how we are getting to where we need to be - not necessarily where we want to be, mind you.

Saturn retrograde in Aquarius is about reconsidering where the new tech and advancements are taking us. It's return to Dhaniṣṭhā mansion by the autumn is also bringing back the theme of alliances, and will probably redraw some boundaries in countries around the world. Saturn has reached its limit as it stations. We have, too. Time to step back and consider how much you have; how much energy, time, will, etc.

As Saturn stations and retrogrades in Śatabhiṣaj lunar mansion, we can keep an open mind about what or who we are committed to at this point. When we have cleared out all that is no longer meant for us, we can focus on what is, and place our commitment where it is beneficial to all concerned.

Saturn's retrograde, including its 'shadow phase' takes up about 9 months of the year, every year. You can think of it as a human's gestation period, reflecting how we build our lives every year. We form and reform our lives all the time.

This time, Saturn's retrograde in Aquarius is a time to make some internal adjustments to some heady changes happening in the 'technosphere'. There are a lot of changes happening, of course, but they are mostly probabilities in our own lives at this point.

Return to what is real. What exists that you can confirm with touch, a key signification of Saturn. If you cannot touch it, leave it. And yes, you can touch something with your mind, a truer reflection of Saturn's limits. Make it real for yourself in your head, or as real as it can be, so you can make it happen.

To make something happen at this point, we must retrace our steps and see where we went wrong. By acknowledging our failures, we can do it right next time - once Saturn moves direct by the autumn.

New Moon in Gemini (Mṛgaśirṣā) Jun 18
This New Moon has some nice indications. It's flanked either side by benefics, Mercury in Taurus and Venus in Cancer. All good. It's in a trine to Saturn, out of the shadows of Rahu, and in an auspicious and fun lunar mansion, Mṛgaśīrṣā.

Okay, yes, there's the Mars ongoing transit in Cancer, as any Moon phase is tempered (pun intended) by Mars' more volatile transit. Still, there is a lot to enjoy with this new lunar month.

As always, however, a New Moon is not the most energetic time of the month. It's a time to withdraw somewhat, and plant seeds in our hearts and minds.

The New Moon occurs in Mṛgaśīrṣā lunar mansion, in the Gemini portion. Mṛgaśīrṣā means 'deer head', and, just like a deer, this sign is curious and likes to roam, innocently exploring new avenues of adventure.

Mṛgaśīrṣā is very creative and intellectual. The soft nature of the deer reflects its innocence in searching out new adventures. The mind more influenced by Mṛgaśīrṣā is always on guard, just as a deer is hyper-vigilant to any sounds or movements. The deer is a very social creature and highly attuned.

Mṛgaśīrṣā is ruled by the Moon god, Soma, further emphasizing its gentle nature. The Moon's transit through Mṛgaśīrṣā is a good day for travel, study, and healing. Many may enjoy it through some intoxicants, of course, another side to Soma, the 'nectar of the gods'.

There are certainly some things to enjoy for the New Moon.

Enjoy!

Solstice Jun 21
The Solstice occurs on Jun 21 at 15:57 BST, whether the summer or winter Solstice for your location on the planet. Whichever it is, the Sun's change of direction (and tropical sign) is a time to take time to notice the subtle shift. But it's hard to notice it at such an extreme time in the year, the height of summer or winter.

It's a peak experience, either way. The Sun has risen as high or as low as it gets. The higher you go, the lower you go. Best to keep things balanced so that you don't go to extremes.

In Gemini, the extremes can be extremely enjoyable, but nonetheless, they can deplete energy. And that's what the Sun is all about, in the end. We need it. It fuels us.

Fuel yourself for the new direction ahead.

Mercury in Gemini Jun 24 - Jul 8
Mercury moves into its own sign by the end of the month. In Gemini, Mercury is dexterous and adventurous, capable, and engaged. Mercury is moving fast, quick on its feet, and quick with a smart remark. Mercury in Gemini is witting and funny, socially engaged; ready for a party!

With no conflicting square aspects, and the shadows of Rahu over there somewhere, it brings more potential for socializing without so much fear. We can channel the strength of Mercury to travel, trade, and engage in more enjoyable ways at this time.

And let's not downplay how important what some may call trivial is in our lives. Mercury helps our life run smoothly, in our everyday lives and dealings with others. When Mercury breaks down; when travel plans are disrupted; when computers crash and message are lost, it halts the smooth flow of life.

Thankfully, Mercury in Gemini is in full swing!

Mars in Leo Jun 30 - Aug 18
Mars is out of its sign of debilitation. Great. Yes, but it's important not to get carried away with this more explosive energy as it enters Leo, especially as it ingresses in the sign. Just a few days after its exact debilitation, it moves into a place of strength - and fire. That can be a deadly mix unless it is handled carefully. We're likely to see this as all kinds of explosive events and major weather disturbances.

After a time of feeling under par, any return of energy is likely to be spent quick unless we are more restrained. Any sense of feeling less than in any way is likely to be overdone when we get some sense of power and purpose back.

But don't worry about it because Mars is opposite Saturn!

Mars-Saturn oppositions can be one of the more frustrating oppositions. But looking at the astrology of 2023, if Saturn were not where it was, I think we'd have seen much more devastation.

Saturn in Aquarius strongly aspects (looks at) Aries, Leo, and Scorpio. So Mars is hampered by Saturn. In mundane events, that brings mixed results. It brings restraint and containment. Yet it can also challenge. I guess we will never know how disturbing it could have been if it were not here.

Personally, we may feel like our energy is not completely free to express itself. And that's not a bad thing if we would otherwise be reckless. We can channel these indications in more positive ways for ourselves.

Mars-Saturn connections are best utilized by focusing to get stuff done. If you don't have something to work hard and focus on, you may get frustrated. Heck, you may get frustrated anyway, but at least you get a lot of work done! Mars and Saturn are known as 'cruel' planets for good reason: they don't allow us to kick back and rest.

Problems begin if you sit and stew. People who have this opposition in their birth charts complain (Saturn) about not having enough energy for things they want to do (Mars). Yet they may spend as much energy on doing so, energy that would otherwise fuel their activities.

We must be mindful of the opposite extreme: of overreacting to any sense of restriction and overdoing it, or doing something without due consideration.

Apart from the Mars-Saturn opposition, exact in July, Mars in Leo is determined to get it done. You probably will be, too.

Neptune Retrograde Jun 30 - Dec 6
Neptune slowly stations in Pisces by the last day of June. Nothing new here, as it retrogrades every year. Yet it hasn't done it where it is in our lifetime, as Neptune takes about 164 years to transit the entire zodiac.

Although Neptune has barely made it into Pisces, it will not leave it again as it very slowly retraces its steps over the first 3 degrees of the sign. It does, however, change lunar mansions, moving back to Purva Bhadra by the end of July, before it returns to its current position in Uttara Bhadra by Mar 2024.

Purva (former) and Uttara (latter) Bhadra (auspicious) are twin star signs that are symbolized by head and feet of a funeral cot, so don't misread the auspiciousness suggested. While there is indeed much auspiciousness, especially in the latter Bhadra within Pisces, the former Bhadra, which bridges Aquarius and Pisces, is more fierce and potentially destructive. Overall, it's more about the auspiciousness of self-realisation, usually brought about by loss.

Purva Bhadra is also symbolized by two-faces. This can either be literal or more symbolic. Two faces are said to represent the difference between life and death, so it's a highly spiritualizing star sign. But it's also reflected in contrasted themes of worldly successes and spiritual indications. The two faces can show the need to engage with both, to fully manifest something from the ether (Purva Bhadra is associated with Jupiter) and bring it into actualization at the latter stages (Uttara Bhadra is associated with Saturn).

Purva Bhadra's pada or 'step' into Pisces shows one of only two instances that a planet both rules the Sun sign and is associated with the lunar mansion. The other occurs opposite in the last 3 degrees and 20 minutes of Leo, where the Sun both rules the sign Leo and is associated with the lunar mansion Uttara Phalguni, the 'latter fruitful'. This makes the last pada, or step, in Purva Bhadra, which is actually the first step into Pisces, a particularly Jupitarian place.

Confused? Good! That's what I was aiming for. Now you have a sense of Neptune in Pisces!

Neptune blurs boundaries, in a sign that is already blurry on the details. Big themes of life and death, this and that, truth and falsity, all become more confusing as Neptune backtracks through Pisces - kind of like swimming backwards upside down. Yet there is nothing to worry about here, as many people don't even acknowledge Neptune's influence.

Let me see if we can clarify what's happening. Whatever the sign Pisces is for you, you're likely just beginning to think more idealistically about this, as Neptune has just begun a 14-year transit in the sign. This means, you're likely keeping some dream alive, whether or not it is advisable.

Neptune will station at the very first degree of Pisces in December, on the edge of two worlds. The world will be a very different place at that point, I imagine. The issue with Neptune is we may keep a dream alive that becomes a nightmare.

The lesson here is to know what to leave in the dream world, and what to take forward into reality.

Dream big. Write it down. Edit.

-

Wishing you the best of what the month has to offer.

Om Tat Sat

1/5/2023

May 2023 Forecast

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Jupiter meets with Rahu by exact degree on May 27. When they came together 2016, it was dubbed ‘the year of rebellion’. While 2016 shook up leaders with its conjunction in Leo, their 2023 conjunction is all about war in Aries. Thankfully, Jupiter is not staying too close to the Rahu for too long, and Saturn looks on, containing the issues.

Jupiter and Rahu are opposite in every which way. Jupiter is righteousness; Rahu, a ‘rebel without a cause’. Jupiter is order. Rahu is chaos. Jupiter is the glue that binds everything. Rahu breaks things apart. Jupiter is life. Rahu can show disrespect for life. At the very least, it transforms laws, policies, and norms when conjunct Jupiter.

Mars is moving into Cancer on May 10, as Jupiter and Rahu come together in its sign, Aries. Mars in Cancer is potentially more reactive. It can either show a cowering from the threats that are possible, or a recklessness that leads to more problems. Its opposition to Pluto, exact May 21, is more likely to show the latter.

The Full Moon in Libra on May 5 is also a partial lunar eclipse, resolving some of the conflict since the solar eclipse on Apr 20; reflecting a need to find more compromise and negotiation. The Full Moon is a time to find balance between Aries and Libra; between self and other, war and peace. Yet any potential for peace is eclipsed and further complicated by a breakdown of communication while Mercury continues to retrograde until May 15.

Venus transits Gemini from May 2 to May 30. This is usually a fun time, despite the bigger changes and war-like situations occurring elsewhere. Venus in Gemini is a good time for travel and social life. But, as Mercury continues its retrograde, none of these activities are straight forward.

The power of the Sun in exaltation in Aries until May 13 is what can make or break a deal, as and when confident leaders do the right thing. Yet this powerful Sun is also eclipsing the Moon, which is looking for some way to negotiate. Changing circumstances may dictate otherwise, as the Aries drive for power overcomes the Libra impulse to negotiate.

Join me on Sunday Apr 30 from 7 pm to 8 pm BST for a discussion about these transits.

Here is your exclusive link to join the zoom meeting:
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/82997046797

Meeting ID: 829 9704 6797
Passcode: 383385

Pluto stations Retrograde May 1
Pluto stations at 6 degrees of Sidereal Capricorn, which is the first degree of Tropical Aquarius. Astrologers using the Tropical zodiac are speaking about a new tech era because of Pluto in Aquarius, while 'Siderealists' are looking at Saturn in Aquarius.

Pluto in Sidereal Capricorn continues to dismantle the current systems while all of this takes place, of course. We don't start something new without dismantling the old. It's going to take some time.

Pluto stations at the degree at which it was back in 1776, during U.S. independence. Its first ever return to this degree, in April/May this year and throughout 2024, shows the big changes in systems of power and control, in the economic model, and its impact on the dollar and global markets.

Pluto's retrograde points to a reassessment; its slow station at this degree is a reminder that small changes creep up on us and lead to bigger changes over time. Personally, we can use this time to reassess the changes that have already occurred in our lives, before going back over them to make sure we drop what we must to move forward.

We cannot move forward completely until we have removed everything that needs to go. This process is going to take until 2040, by which time Pluto will enter Sidereal Aquarius. For now, we must continue dismantling the old order and ways of doing things.

Pluto's station is also the time Mercury conjoins the Sun by degree, the halfway point in Mercury's retrograde in Aries, in a square to Pluto in Capricorn. This highlights the conflict we all have as individuals trying to make our way in a system that continues to fall apart.

With the Moon reaching Libra for the Full Moon in a few days in a square to Pluto, opposite a powerful Sun in Aries, we must find a way to compromise; with ourselves and with others.

Venus in Gemini May 2 - 30
Venus may be moving out of its own sign Taurus, but it is quite happy to host a party or two in Gemini. After the sensual enjoyments of Taurus have brought us to our senses, we can share the fruits of those experiences with others in Gemini.

Venus in Gemini is curious and open to engaging with others in a more pleasant way. Venus enjoys the back and forth, the many options, the interactions, the intercourse. Sometimes it can get too caught up in the exchange, of course, preferring a lengthy discussion. Yet Mercury's own exchange with Mars until May 10 brings the quick-witted humour. It may, however, bring a sharp word here or there, too.

As Venus joins Mars in Gemini, which continues to exchange with Mercury in Aries, there is a lot of passion to negotiate that could get out of hand - at least until May 10, once Mars moves into Cancer. And there may be many a misunderstanding any kind of interaction until Mercury has stationed direct in Aries by May 15.

Before any of that, we have the eclipse in Libra on May 5, conjunct Ketu. Communication and negotiation is at a critical point before we make it beyond the eclipses and Mercury's retrograde in May.

A sweet word here or there is not at all insignificant when a single word itself can ignite an already volatile situation.

Play nice!

Full Moon in Libra (Viśākhā) - Partial Lunar Eclipse May 5
The Full Moon and lunar eclipse in Libra brings some resolution to what has been instigated for the solar eclipse in Aries. This is a time to find more balance in our lives, and in our relationships; a time to compromise, to reflect on the power and dominance of a powerful Sun in Aries.

While the New Moon in Aries and solar eclipse saw Jupiter come to the end of its transit in Pisces, this lunar eclipse has a different focus. Jupiter's transit is always important during an eclipse, as it points the way forward. Although Jupiter has been in transition, highlighting this even more transitory period, we can still look to Jupiter for guidance.

Look to the position of Jupiter in Pisces for the bigger themes to come, what you are developing, and bring that with you into Aries, for the next stage of growth. Generally, this means by the end of these eclipses we will let go of something (Pisces) to start something new (Aries). We just need to find a balance with others in doing so.

The Moon is eclipsed at 20 degrees of sidereal Libra, with the Sun continuing its transit in Aries, so any kind of solar dominance may overshadow the negotiation that is possible. While this is not such good news in terms of fighting, especially as Ketu, 'the remover', creates the eclipse in Libra, the sign of peace, we can personally find a more considered approach. This eclipse can temporarily disturb the balance. Despite the commonly-held belief that Libra is all about peace, it's also sometimes about rocking the boat to find peace again.

Whatever happens on the world stage, we can always find a more positive expression of the eclipses, channeling them into more spiritual pursuits. That's really a fancy way of saying that eclipses are a better time to go within. Although the Full Moons are generally a more social time, an eclipsed Moon within the social Libra is likely to bring some interesting social dynamics.

Whether you stay in or go out, find the time to find some resolution - with yourself and others, letting go of any sense of judgment. The Moon eclipsed by Ketu can be hypercritical of others. A better approach would be to cut out whatever relationships are no longer appropriate, without being critical of someone who is just being themselves as usual.

This eclipse, like any eclipse, is asking us to change. And when we do, our relationships change, too.

If you have any planets, your rising, Moon, or Sun, in Libra, especially around 20 degrees., then this eclipse is more impactful for you. Yet we all have Libra somewhere, which is where we could all do with letting go of something or someone.

Some relationships can actually deepen when we let go of preconceived ideas we have about others. When we change how we look at someone or some situation, it naturally changes before our eyes. This is a more positive expression of a Ketu eclipse.

The resolution that is possible is reflected in the lunar mansion, Svātī, where the Full Moon phase occurs. The exact Full Moon itself moves into the very first degree of Viśākhā. As is the case with eclipses, it brings many things to light, including some things we may prefer remain hidden. An example of this is yet another Covid variant of interest, appropriately enough called Arcturus, named after the brightest star in the constellation of, yes, you guessed it, Svātī!

As the Moon enters the following lunar mansion, Viśākhā, it changes its quality and focus. Lunar eclipses changes things more immediately as well. Take the time on May 5 to be still with the changing emotional landscape.

As the Moon enters Viśākhā, we can dedicate ourselves to our chosen path - or the path that has been chosen for us. We can focus on what is important, and not get blown to the four corners, as it often the case with Svatī.

Viśākhā asks us to pick a path, to pick a side, and then stick to it. This then, brings us from Libra into Scorpio, as Viśākhā bridges both signs, highlighting the more devoted, and obsessive, qualities of relationships in Libra/Scorpio.

Yet Viśākhā may just as easily show a lack of direction and indecision, and is probably what most people think of when they think of Libra and the weighing scales of this particular lunar mansion.

We must weigh everything up, of course, but we must also, at some point, choose.

For timing of the eclipse in your locale, click here:
https://www.timeanddate.com/eclipse/lunar/2023-may-5

Mars in Cancer May 10 - Jun 30
Let's start with the good news about Mars in Cancer, shall we?! Although Mars is debilitated in Cancer, it is no longer 'out of bounds' as it enters the sign. This means Mars is not as erratic and out of control as it has been for the past few months. Mars comes back 'into the fold', back under control, in May.

Mars in Cancer is at least a good time to protect ourselves, even if we end up overdoing the impulse and overreact to perceived threats.

The problems with debilitated, or exalted, planets is they are more extreme in one way or the other. Mars in Cancer can show someone hiding away and not dealing with what they know they need to. Or someone may overcompensate because of a sense of lack, pushing harder than is necessary.

Mars is about strength and courage. Cancer is about care and protection. They can, and do, help each other. In fact, Mars is said to be the most powerful planet for Cancerians. Yet this works better for Cancer than it does for Mars itself. Cancerians can feel more energized because of this transit, but Aries and Scorpio individuals may feel more downbeat, and could do with a break.

Aries and Scorpio must be mindful of overdoing it, pushing harder if they feel under par.

Cancer is all about how we feel. Yet when feelings override what we should be doing, we can create more problems than are necessary. This has even made it into counselling speak, a Cancerian domain, when therapists question whether we 'should' (!) use "I should" statements.

We may not always feel like it, but we all know what we should, or shouldn't, be doing most of the time. We may, however, overcompensate for the sense of lack and jump into something without considering feelings; others' or our own.

Added to the complexity of this time is Pluto's opposition to Mars, exact May 21. This adds more power struggles, and more power, as Pluto begins its inner search, its retrograde, in Capricorn.

There are bigger changes and worldly themes of power struggles in the world at large, changes that are likely to instill a need to protect ourselves and loved ones all the more while Mars is in Cancer.

Mars looks at Capricorn and wishes it was as detached as Pluto seems to be, but most likely because it doesn't feel so. Mars is having to deal with thoughts and emotions it would prefer not to in Cancer. If you're feeling less energy and courage to do something, you're likely to want to make the changes that are necessary despite how you are feeling.

And when changes take place we hadn't planned for; when things seem out of control on some level, we may stomp our feet when we don't seem to get our way. This is one of the pitfalls of a debilitated Mars.

Take a step back from doing too much at this time, but do show up and do the necessary. And yes, sometimes, burying our heads under the duvet is what's needed - until we are ready to reemerge with more energy and purpose.

Remember that courage is not limitless. Know how far to push yourself, and when to quit, preserving your energy for your next battle.

Read a more in-depth article about Mars in Cancer here:
www.timelineastrology.com/mars-in-cancer.html

Mercury stations Direct May 15
Mercury stations by mid-month in Aries, as Jupiter transits the recent solar eclipse degree. Some things are likely to come to light at this time. Be still, so you can discern truth from fiction. You should feel the anticipation as Mercury stations, maybe even a 'lightbulb moment'.

Mercury's stations generally feel more excitable and anticipatory, as things begin to open up ahead. This is likely even more the case as it stations in Aries, even if Mars is now in Cancer and running out of fuel.

While we may not all have the energy that's needed to do what we must, we can at least plan our next move during Mercury's station.

This is a time to slowly venture forward, precisely because of it doing so in the sign of speed. It's also a time to be open to being wrong about something, and to learn from recent mistakes and setbacks.

Yet we must also be mindful of deceiving ourselves or being deceived (deliberately or not) by others. That's because as Mercury stations, Rahu is close by, with Jupiter moving towards an exact conjunction with Rahu by May 27.

Mercury doesn't move past the point at which it began to move back until we're into June, so there's no rush to make decisions at this time - unless there is, in which case, it's best to keep an open mind about outcomes.

There are likely many confusing, even disturbing, details emerging at this time. Take it all in, digest it, and go deeper within, accessing a deeper intelligence and knowing, as reflected in the planet of wisdom, Jupiter.

As the saying goes, "Knowledge speaks, wisdom listens."

Sun in Taurus May 13 - Jun 13
The Sun makes its yearly trip to Taurus by mid-month and although it is still in the shadow of Rahu in Aries, we can at least enjoy the shade!

Sun in Taurus is a time for most of us to enjoy being outdoors, connecting to nature and the natural world. It's a time to 'bloom where we are planted' and be happy with what we have.

All we have to be happy about is all we need to be happy!

Yet the Sun in Taurus is somewhat overshadowed by Rahu in Aries and the ongoing war and strife around the world, which is likely expressed in some shady dealings at this time.

When combined with Jupiter's conjunction with Rahu, it may show potentially ill-conceived ideas and deals that do not have everyone's best interest at heart.

Yet the Sun in Taurus can be fun, despite global affairs. Actually, we may just want to let our hair down and enjoy whatever is going on in the world at large.

Just be mindful if something appears too good to be true, it may indeed be. We may not see the repercussions of this in May, but what happens in May is likely to lead to a major repercussions later in the year.

For now, enjoy where you are, and who you are with.

New Moon in Taurus (Kṛttikā) May 19
The New Moon in Kṛttikā is an exalted Moon. And while I would usually portray this as a very positive thing - and it is - there is also the situation with Rahu meeting with Jupiter as it overshadows the Sun during the 'dark Moon' in Taurus.

What is happening now is likely to lack clarity. Yet the New Moon is a time to move within and set intentions, whatever is being presented on the outside. As within, so without. Look at what is going on in the world as a reflection of what is going on inside.

The good news is that this exalted Moon is sandwiched between Jupiter and Venus, a more positive configuration we can certainly enjoy.

During the New Moon, Venus is placed in Gemini, so there's plenty to enjoy with others. Without Venus, life would be unbearably dull. But it offers us something more important: Venus and the Moon, and the sign Taurus, bring us to our senses. Sensual enjoyment is a quick way to be present, enjoying people and things that make us feel more secure.

There will always be uncertainty in the world, and there will always be a need to go within using the senses as a doorway, to wake us up to the moment, the only thing we ever need.

The exalted New Moon in Taurus is a time to go within and find more comfort with uncertainty. By doing so, we can live with a sense of certainty, and enjoy ourselves, too. We can remove what is not helpful for our mental health, including bombarding the senses with things that don't help. We can feed our minds positive impressions, including natural settings and foods, which bring stability to the mind.

Kṛttikā's symbol, the lunar mansion the New Moon occurs in, is s blade, highlighting the need to cut it out - whatever it is that does you no good. Many times, it's not what we do, but what we know we shouldn't (there's that word again!), that causes problems.

If you can cut those negative thoughts out, while also thinking positively, you're onto a winner!

But to do so, you must be open to uncertainty, just as the Moon in Taurus must acknowledge the opposite Scorpio. The more uncertainty we can handle, the more we can feel good, having dealt with our demons, and the less we grab unhelpful things to help us cope.

A new life awaits us when we are done with things that no longer support us. Self-care and support is important to keep in mind this May.

Jupiter-Rahu Conjunction May 27
Jupiter conjoins the North Node Rahu using the mean calculation on May 27. The true node calculation sees them meet on Jun 2. This is called Guru Cāṇḍāla Yoga in Vedic astrology. Guru is the 'darkness destroyer', while Cāṇḍāla is the 'outcast', the darkness itself. When these opposite qualities meet, it can be quite a complex mix to figure out.

You may get a sense of something to be true, but which is not. Or you may sense what is true and ignore it as fake.

You may get the wrong advice based on your own faulty beliefs, as everyone you meet during such a conjunction confirms your biases. You may not be able to tell when a hunch is correct or not. The advice is to wait until the shadows pass to make a decision.

Yet I've seen enough charts of those with this combination to know it can show a sort of 'intuition on steroids', but that the person may not trust their instincts. And indeed, maybe they shouldn't! I would delay any important decisions until this conjunction has passed in June.

The purity of Jupiter is at least somewhat sullied by the shadows of Rahu. Although Jupiter is a good remedy for the shadows, when it conjoins Rahu, it itself becomes overshadowed and unable to remedy the situation.

When they are together in a wide orb of influence, not at the same degree, Jupiter can give Rahu a boost, but Rahu lowers the tone of Jupiter.

In this case, the Sun is seen as the remedy to save Jupiter from the shadowy realms of Rahu. As Freedom Cole writes about in his book, Science of Light Vol. 2, "they [the Sun and Jupiter] watch out for each other."

When we think about the astronomy of our star and the planet Jupiter, they are the two biggest bodies in our solar system by far. It's less of the Sun alone creating the gravitational pull for the planets, but a combination of the Sun and Jupiter, what is known as the barycenter.

The conjunction of Jupiter and Rahu is one reason I predicted the death of many leading celebrities and public figures this year. Jupiter is Jivatman. It represents life itself. The last time they came together in 2016, in the sign of celebrity, Leo, we saw an inordinate number of very prominent figures die. Thankfully, Jupiter and Rahu will only meet once this year, unlike in 2016, when they transiting alongside each other for months.

We will get over this conjunction as we did the last, and quickly, but it leaves its mark forever more, too. Think about how 2016 changes the world.

By the time Jupiter clears the shadows in Aries, it will have begun to settle into the sign, a sign it does better in than Rahu. Rahu shows the shadow side of Aries and Mars, while Jupiter brings more clarity and light.

Rahu will leave Aries by the end of October this year, leaving Jupiter in Aries to instill a better sense of what is appropriate, although Rahu and Saturn continue to influence Jupiter due to their sight (aspect). At least Jupiter moves out of the more intense shadows.

Until then, go within the find the truth, but keep an open mind about what you find.

-

Wishing you the best of what the month has to offer.

Om Tat Sat

1/4/2023

April 2023 Forecast

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Jupiter is hidden by the rays of the Sun in the depths of its transition into Aries in April. This has more obvious challenges with regards the economy, but less so for more inner reflections. Righteousness may be challenged in a more obvious outward sense, as treatments of people or decisions taken now are questioned.

The big news in April is the total solar eclipse on Apr 20, visible in South East Asia. This occurs at 5 degrees of Sidereal Aries, and Aśvinī lunar mansion. This has the potential to move the story along in leaps and bounds, changing things radically in movements around the world.

The eclipsed Sun is exalted and flanked either side by Jupiter, on the one side, and Venus, which will have moved into its own sign, Taurus, by Apr 6. Although this points to some challenging changes at this stage, at least there is potential for some positive expressions. Yet when we cannot see Jupiter during an eclipse, we may feel lost as to how to progress.
Saturn’s strength and aspect from the innovative Aquarius is a container, although it doesn’t take away from the need for radical changes. It may, however, keep some heads cool when more objectivity is needed in times of transition.

Mercury stations retrograde in Aries by Apr 21. By the time it stations direct on May 15 we will have put the eclipses behind us, but there are still a lot of details to work out as Mercury backtracks through the eclipse degrees in Aries - a section of the sign Jupiter will move retrograde for the latter half of 2023. What is triggered in April/May will likely have a bigger impact later.

Jupiter's entry into Aries by Apr 21, joining forces with Rahu and Uranus, shows we are due a major shakeup in the world. Jupiter meets with Rahu by exact degree in late May, but we are likely to feel duped from the start. The last time Jupiter and Rahu came together in 2016 shook our world. This year's conjunction is likely to do the same.

Join me on Sunday Apr 2 at 7pm BST (note Daylight Saving Time) for a discussion about the transits of April.

Here is your patron-exclusive link for the zoom meeting:
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/83575570151

Meeting ID: 835 7557 0151
Passcode: 200692

Mercury in Aries Mar 31 - Jun 7
Mercury transits Aries for a longer than usual period due to its retrograde from Apr 21 to May 15. This is a highly complex period in many ways, even if there are some mitigating factors.

There are some obvious issues with Mercury in the 'sign of war' for so long. Mars is transiting Gemini until May 10. which means Mercury and Mars are swapping signs. This intricately ties both planets together, for better or worse.

Gemini, Leo, Libra, Scorpio, Sagittarius, and Pisces should find it easier to deal with - or at least be able to work with it - while all other signs may have a little more to work out. And remember, we all have all of the signs somewhere, so we must all work it out.

This is the last full month of Mars 'out of bounds', before Mars gets in line after May 4. When Mars transits further outside the 'band of the zodiac belt', as it has been for the past few months, it behaves more unusually, more erratically. Our energy does the same.

In April, Mars continues to brings this erratic energy, which, when combined with Mercury, can lead to testing exchanges. The best of this is to say what needs to be said, whatever you feel about it, but not to beat someone over the head with your opinions! Mercury doesn't feel, it thinks. Mars doesn't think, it acts. Say what needs to be said, but first make sure you are clear about what needs to be said. And be kind, even if you think you're right.

Communication is generally strained with Mercury retrograde, but this is even more so when so tied up with Mars. When we combine these indications with Jupiter's transiting into Aries while combust (hidden behind the Sun), as well as an eclipse of the Sun in Aries, to say that this offers great potential, and much confusion, is the understatement of the year.

We must be mindful of both the positive and negative potentials of this in the world. We've reached a precarious period in the war, for example, which could easily spiral out of control.

Choose your battles wisely. Our only hope is in a planet we don't usually place hope in; that is, Saturn. Saturn's placement in Aquarius and its strong aspect to Aries should hopefully keeps things contained.

Full Moon in Virgo (Hasta) Apr 6
Although this Full Moon is not an eclipse, Mercury transits the upcoming eclipse degree in Aries at the time, leading to a sense of change in the air. Opposite, Jupiter is coming to the end of its transit in Pisces, hidden by the rays of the Sun in the depths of transition. Yes, we're definently in times of change.

As practical and orderly as a Full Moon in Hasta and Sidereal Virgo wishes to be, we are about to see so many changes that we may find it hard to manage our everyday routines.

The more we try to maintain balance, the more likely we lose it. This is the problem, and the solution, contained within the sign Virgo.

Problems of this Full Moon can certainty be taken in our stride. Indeed, we must do so if we are to balance the Sun, Jupiter, and Neptune in Pisces; all those daydreams of something better, with practical applications in our day-to-day lives.

Virgo takes all those hopes and dreams and sees if they can work. Hasta, a lunar mansion that typifies Virgo, applies them in the most practical ways, manipulating things so that we can make them work for us.

The downside of Virgo is attempting to micro-manage, not allowing things to be for a time, to form and reform in ways they must. Most everyday problems would work themselves out if we were to leave them be for a while.

Don't be too quick to judge or criticize what is happening right now - it won't be long before it's all change. We must be open to better ways of doing things, allowing new perspectives to alter the way we do anything moving forward.

Venus in Taurus Apr 6 - May 2
Venus moves into its earthy sign in April, a sweet spot in the year despite other indications of complex changes and upheaval. If things must change, why not enjoy what we can? The ground remains beneath our feet (hopefully!).

Venus in Taurus is a time to 'stop and smell the roses', and 'bloom where you are planted'. This is probably the most important indication during times of change and upheaval on our planet. If we cannot find space to simply enjoy the simple pleasures, even while things change all around us, how are we going to deal with the bigger changes suggested in the coming years?

One of the bigger changes is in the basics, which really takes hold once Uranus moves into Taurus. This will occur the next time Venus moves into Taurus, in the summer of 2024.

Perhaps this is the last time we can enjoy what Taurus has given us thus far, in this way, for now - before it is altered forever more.

If you've got a nest egg, or whatever thing you find gives your life stability and predictability, enjoy it now. It won't be the same for very long. Embrace it in its current form, and all new forms it takes in the coming years.

Although Venus is not directly involved with the upcoming eclipse in Aries, and is moving out of a strong aspect from Saturn, Venus does still receive a sly backwards glance from the shadows of Rahu in Aries, moving into a square to Saturn. This is likely felt in the economy, especially when Jupiter's transit along with Rahu is taken into account.

Venus in Taurus is a time to appreciate the finer things in life, which, are (usually) free, thankfully. It's a great time to step back out into nature for those of us on the northern hemisphere. No matter what is happening with humanity, the birds are singing, the flowers blossoming, the waters keep flowing; mountains are not going anywhere.

And even if you cannot enjoy nature at this time, you have your senses you can tune into, through some sort of sensual experience. The more tangible the experience with Venus in Taurus, the better.

Enjoy!

Jupiter Combust Apr 11
April is a complex month for many reasons, least of all because of Jupiter's combustion at the very end of Sidereal Pisces, as it transitions into Aries.

When we cannot see Jupiter, we don't usually make the right decisions, although everything is right from a bigger perspective, of course. If we are conscious of this, we can indeed tune in and find the right path, but if we are looking for others to supply us with the right answers without having first checked with ourselves, we're likely to be led astray.

As soon as Jupiter leaves its combustion in May, it meets with the shadow of the eclipse, Rahu. If we're not blinded by the light, we're blinded by shadows!

The best way to deal with this complex period is to not look outside yourself for advice, no matter how wise the person may seem. But if you have found that 'still voice within', then the voices of those advising you should reflect your own inner knowing.

That is the strength of a planet in combustion; it's about looking for the strength within. This is likely due to the lack felt without. Jupiter's signifies growth, which is likely hampered while combust, invisible. This has obvious implications for economic growth, or the lack thereof, which likely leads to a propping up in all kinds of shady dealings when combined with the eclipse in May.

What happens now changes things forever more. Be mindful of false promises and shady characters who promise a lot but do not deliver what's best for everyone.

I'll write more about the Jupiter-Rahu combination next month, and in article I'm writing on this important conjunction titled, "Black Swan Events & the Jupiter-Rahu Conjunction". This Guru Chandala Yoga, or 'Black Swan', is likely to bring to surprises, even shocking events, that even an astrologer cannot predict.

Sun in Aries Apr 13 - May 13
At last, the Sun moves into its sign of exaltation and we can feel the energy of our star shine bright. While this is more especially a welcomed return to light for those of us on the northern hemisphere, and particularly for those with Leo prominent, all the world can feel the Sun in Aries as a sign of initiation and rebirth.

We can only initiate when we feel confident to do so. Yes, okay, there's the ongoing Saturn storyline keeping a lid on proceedings, but at least the Sun's exaltation shows more confidence overall. I guess we could use the phrase 'cautiously confident' in that case.

Caution is certainly advised as the Sun is eclipsed by Rahu in Aries, itself 'eclipsing' Jupiter as it enters the sign. In that case, confidence is not likely felt through any sense of surety, but probably through trials and setbacks; because of a surprising turn of events.

When we can take this changes in our stride, we develop more confidence in our ability to handle anything life throws at us.

If you're more open to the changes these transits suggest, your confidence won't be knocked when things happen you hadn't counted on, or things happen in a way you hadn't planned for. Instead, you can get ready to meet with the changing terrain with a light-footed approach, and a deeper connection to who you are and what you are capable of.

Sometimes, you have to know your limitations. But in knowing this, you can acheive more.

Confidence is gained in many ways other than standing your ground or showing off. You can increase your sense of confidence by learning to change the approach that's needed at any given moment.

Working towards something while being open to more innovative approaches is likely to serve you and everyone else better when all is considered. Anyone who is only self-serving and aggrandizing (Sun-Rahu) is going to get away with such self-promotion for long (Saturn in Aquarius) - unless it serves a greater purpose (Sun-Jupiter).

Shine on you crazy diamond!

New Moon in Aries (Aśvinī) Apr 20 - Total (Hybrid) Solar Eclipse
Okay, so this one's a biggie. This New Moon and eclipse is going to shake things up in a big way. But here's the thing; the changes it suggests for us individually and collectively are necessary. We can get on board, despite what may seem wrong on some level. Nothing is wrong. Everything is as it should be.

Yet we don't always reach such a state of grace when things are in flux, do we? Usually, we look to Jupiter for a sense of what is right during the eclipse, but Jupiter is itself in transition between Pisces and Aries at the time of the eclipse. Jupiter has slipped from view behind the rays of the Sun, while transiting between the watery realms of Pisces and the fiery realms of Aries. This is highly volatile for Jupiter.

This may include economic volatility, as well as the ongoing war in Ukraine. Keep an eye out for my presentation on a potential stock market crash. There are too many similar patterns to the 1929 astrology occuring in 2023 to ignore such a possibility.

We may rally against the outer changes and think it should have been some other way. We may say to ourselves, "If I just did it this way or that way, it would have been different." Hmm. 'Free' will has a lot to answer for! Remind yourself that it's all happening perfectly. And that, actually, nothing happens, all is.

When we accept what is happening, it doesn't mean we don't do something about it. Acceptance leads to action, just as Pisces leads to Aries. The more we let go into what is happening, the more we can do with it.

Yet the eclipse day itself is not the best day to take action necessarily. It's a supercharged New Moon, a time to set intentions and to observe things. Actions can come later, once Jupiter settles into Aries.

If you have any planets around 5 degrees of Sidereal Aries or Libra, this is an eclipse to keep an eye on, and the areas of our life you experience the sign Aries and what those planets represent in your birth chart.

Jupiter's subsequent transit in Aries is all about making the right decisions, despite the chaos that is likely to ensue because of this eclipse. "If you can keep your head when all about you are losing theirs ..."

For timing of the eclipse for your location, visit:
https://www.timeanddate.com/eclipse/solar/2023-april-20

Jupiter in Aries Apr 21, 2023 - May 1, 2024
Jupiter's transition to a new sign is an important transition each year. This year, it's even more important for several reasons. Jupiter may be leaving its own sign Pisces, but it's also leaving a holding pattern, having being stuck between Saturn in Aquarius and Rahu in Aries.

Now that Jupiter joins Rahu in Aries, strongly aspected by Saturn in Aquarius, the decisions we make now have long-lasting implications; the changes about to occur in the world around us and in our personal lives have far-reaching effects.

Whatever you end up doing, the actions you take lead to wisdom, just as Jupiter follows Mars when journeying from our planet. If you didn't do a thing, you never learn, although you must be mindful of the precarious position of taking action that is ill-conceived, and the steep learning curve when doing something you may later regret.

This is reflected in the conjunction between Jupiter and Rahu, called Guru Chandala Yoga. Read more about the Guru Chandala Yoga and a possible 'Black Swan Event' here

Although Jupiter is overshadowed by Rahu, Rahu is actually propped up by Jupiter, boosting some things we would prefer not to in hindsight.

When someone has Jupiter and Rahu together in their birth chart, Rahu's period is given a boost by Jupiter, while Jupiter's period can be somewhat overshadowed by some Rahu-type issue. Jupiter wishes to balance out Rahu's greed with its generous approach, yet blind generosity can create many issues.

'The road to hell is paved with good intentions'.

Jupiter's entry into Aries for the coming year is at least an opportunity to get clear about what you should be doing in the first place, what it's purpose is, even if you are initially challenged in being perfectly clear about it.

This is especially the case in April and May, as Jupiter enters Aries while combust and involved with the eclipse of Rahu. Even after that, Jupiter must meet with Uranus for a further shake up in 2024, which, when combined with Uranus' transition into Sidereal Taurus, shows the bigger changes in the economic model next year.

This is likely due to the challenges in 2023, of course. But the changes are necessary, whether a new digital currency or whatever it may be. It's all happening perfectly.

For those with their Moon in Gemini, Leo, Libra, Sagittarius, or Pisces, Jupiter's transit in Aries is likely felt as more purposeful. For all other signs, Jupiter's transit in the natural first sign of the zodiac can feel more inspired, but sometimes the areas being expanded upon may not feel as purposeful or deliberate.

Yet we can all benefit from Jupiter's transit, no matter where you personally sense this growth. And you can develop more of a sense optimism from being more proactive about what is meaningful to you.

Whatever area of your life Aries represents, either from your rising or Moon sign - or any sign, for that matter - these areas will expand one way or another in the year to come. Expansion does not always mean an obvious external growth. Many times, it shows an inner expansion and more depth of experience, a deeper connection to something or someone reflected in this sign.

It's time to take all you learned from the depths of Pisces to do the necessary in Aries. And because Saturn continues to keep a close eye on Jupiter from Aquarius, staying focused and inside the lines is as important as ever.

Now would be a good time to take that inspired action.

Mercury Retrograde Apr 21 - May 15
Mercury retrograde on its own is usually a petty nuisance. Add it to other, more complex, changes, however, and it can all become too much so that we don't always handle it with the necessary smile.

This Mercury retrograde is complex because of its exchange with Mars and its placement alongside the eclipse, with Mercury transiting the eclipse degree in the first few days of April and then backing up from the upcoming lunar eclipse degree, moving back towards the north lunar node, Rahu.

This means whatever is instigated from the beginning of the month is likely put through a lot of twists and turns, so that it is unclear as to the outcome until June, when it clears the point at which it first began to retrograde in April. Whatever plans you have on the burner, make sure to keep an open mind throughout.

The usual advise applies for Mercury retrograde: take your time with everything you do, paying particular attention to the fine print. It's not that Mercury retrograde is the devil, but the devil is in the details!

Mercury retrogrades are not evil. It's just that the mind is overburden with things it must consider and you may make mistakes when you are too busy.

Mercury retrogrades, even ones in Aries, are about taking the time to think things through, without necessarily doing anything about your deliberations. There's plenty of time to act later, even if you feel the urgency to act now. And you will likely feel the urgency to act with the eclipse in Aries just as Mercury retrogrades. But this just points to the likelihood that you will have to redo whatever you do now later on.

If you are at least aware of the potential snag lists that accumulate at this time, you won't 'lose your rag' as we Irish like to say, i.e., you won't lose your temper if things don't go to plan. There's a bigger picture and plan you are missing if you do.

Akshaya Tritiya Apr 22
Akshaya means 'undiminished' and Tritiya is the '3rd lunar day' of this auspicious lunar month, with the luminaries 'shining bright' in their signs of exaltation. The Sun is in Aries, the Moon in Taurus. Venus is also in Taurus, with Saturn in Aquarius. Even Mercury, although now retrograde, is exchanging with Mars in Gemini. This is as if Mars were in Aries and Mercury in Gemini, 'post exchange'. The only planet not in its own sign (in some way) or exalted is Jupiter, which has just entered Aries - on the verge of something new.

Despite the auspiciousness and strengths of most of the planets, Jupiter is lost in the rays of the Sun, hanging out between two signs. Despite all that we have to be grateful for, we may not be. I guess it's harder to be grateful when everything is changing; it's harder to take the time to just be when all around is in flux.

If you have something you would like to begin in 2023, you could use this day to give it the best possible start, as anything begun when the Sun and Moon are exalted is said to be 'undiminishing'. This is why Indian traditionally buy gold on this day.

You could invest in something, or begin a project, or simply intend something for your life. Perhaps you could use the New Moon and eclipse on Apr 20 to intend something, and Apr 22 to begin it.

You just have to be mindful of the fact that this is within the eclipses, two days after a total solar eclipse. This subtracts from the auspiciousness, for sure, but we'll take what we can get, right?!

With that in mind, I invite you to send your wishes for something new in your life, as a 'message in a bottle', sending out your wishes for someone or something to enter your life, by posting your message here: https://xoyondo.com/mb/teyE1tdIfDxnSvP

I will compile everyone's wishes and add them to an article I'm writing about the upcoming Saturn-Neptune conjunction in Pisces; when we can make our big dreams a reality.

What do you wish for?

Full Moon in Libra (Viśākhā) May 5 - Partial Lunar Eclipse
Although this eclipse is in May, I thought I'd write about it for the April forecast because eclipses come in pairs. Whatever changes we begin for the New Moon in April leads to some sort of resolution in May.

If I left this out of the forecast, it would be like not finishing a book, right before the protagonist finished their 'hero's journey'. This journey from the New to the Full Moon is made all the more urgent with the eclipses.

The New Moon and solar eclipse in Aries brings the spark of change, lighting a fire under us to do something different, while this Full Moon and lunar eclipse leads to a need for compromise with others, as well as with ourselves.

We cannot be all Aries about anything we do. In other words, we cannot just think about ourselves, or take action without thinking at all. We must consider how our actions impact others, even the world around us. To find resolution for this Full Moon and eclipse, we must be open to the other, in whatever form the other takes.

The resolution itself leads to its own changes, as and when we are open to others' points of view and approaches. As this occurs with Mercury retrograde opposite in Aries, and Venus as the ruler of the eclipse in Gemini with Mars, we have more to negotiate around changes that are self-evident.

Taking both Venus and Mars together, we can get what we want only when others get what they want. This balancing of Aries and Libra is at the crux of our relating to others and the world around us, made more urgent during the eclipses.

For timing of the eclipse for your location, visit:
https://www.timeanddate.com/eclipse/lunar/2023-may-5

-

Wishing you the best of what the month has to offer.

Om Tat Sat

1/3/2023

March 2023 Forecast

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Mercury is the last of the planets to meet with Saturn in Aquarius, by Mar 2. This testing of our new plans will likely feel like a chore at this point. Yet without testing, we cannot know if it will work. Venus is conjunct Jupiter on the same day, so this is more enjoyable, at least. Venus is exalted in Pisces, with Jupiter welcoming it to its home. There are likely many positive expressions of this, a sense that we have might as well enjoy whatever is happening - and find more meaning in it. The downside is overindulgence, or escapism, especially as Neptune gets in on the act.

Mars finally makes it out of Taurus by Mar 12, having first entered the sign in Aug 2022. It then moves past the point it began to backtrack by Mar 17. Whatever plans or projects that were put on hold can now move forward. The planet of war moving forward may mean just that, of course. After many weeks of stalling, it could lead to an escalation and break down of talks. Mars in Gemini must talk, however, no matter how much is dislikes it. At least Mars is now in a helpful relationship with a powerful Saturn in Aquarius, both in air signs. This can lead to some advancements, as new ideas are thrashed out in a more constructive manner.

Venus moves into Mars’ sign Aries by Mar 12, joining Rahu and Uranus placed therein. After a period of Venus in exaltation in early March, Venus joining the distorted Rahu and surprising Uranus may further inflate situations for better or worse. The economy is likely to go through major ups and downs from this point.

Mercury takes a dip into Pisces by Mar 16, conjunct Neptune as soon as it does so. This may leave us feeling completely perplexed as to what is happening. Although Jupiter’s transit in Pisces is a mitigating factor, allowing us to tune into our inner knowing, the facts and figures may not tally with what we sense is right.

The Sun in Pisces from Mar 14 is another indication of a reset and ending before starting over. A big reset takes place on the New Moon in Pisces on Mar 21. This is the Lunar New Year in the Vedic calendar.

Venus meets with Uranus in Aries by Mar 30, as Mercury moves into Aries by Mar 31, and Jupiter reaches the end of Pisces in April, too. All the planets move into Aries by the end of April, reflecting many new beginnings. Yet Jupiter is hidden by the rays of the Sun in transition. This may show more obvious challenges with the economy, as well as opportunities for more meaningful pursuits. Righteousness may be challenged, but Jupiter’s inner strength guides us forward.

Venus in Pisces Feb 15 - Mar 12
The first week of March is when we see Venus move to its degree of exaltation, exact on Mar 10. This is certainly a sweet spot in the year. Venus in Pisces reflects our ability to be happy, whatever is happening in the world around us.

Venus conjoins Jupiter on Mar 2, potentially leading to too much of a good thing. The fact that this occurs with Venus and Jupiter hemmed in between Saturn in Aquarius and Rahu in Aries suggests we may overindulge because we feel stuck and stressed somewhere.

It may be a dietary indulgence (Aquarius rising or Moon), or hope for something better (Cancer rising or Moon), but whatever it is for you, make sure you are not overdoing it and copping out. By doing so, you actually prevent yourself from experiencing the best of what this configuration has to offer. And there is much on offer here.

Many times, we give in to our most primitive instincts (Rahu) through a fear of lack (Saturn), and then actually create more lack. We could call it ironic if it weren't so tragic.

Feelings of being stuck aside, Venus in Pisces is a time of year to feel the appreciation for whatever, and whomever, we have in our lives. Its conjunction with Jupiter adds to the potential for feeling grateful.

The more grateful we are, the more we get, simply because we are 'giving thanks'. When we complain, even if there is just cause, we are taking away from the situation or from someone. We don't get anything back from that.

Depending on the cycle you are currently experiencing, you will be more in tune with either of these impulses. Those in Venus and Jupiter cycles are likely to feel more appreciative, more grateful - even if they feel more stuck! Those in Saturn or Rahu cycles may not be able to see what's to be grateful for, with these planets keeping them busy looking at what's stuck.

It's time to 'stop and smell the roses', to see the good in any situation, no matter what it is. But it's also a good idea to accept if you cannot, and love yourself regardless. This is the strength of Venus in exaltation: seeing the good in everyone and everything, including yourself.

The downside of Venus in exaltation is setting the bar so high that no one and no thing could ever reach your expectations.

Love it all, anyway, and it will love you back.

Mercury in Aquarius Feb 27 - Mar 16
Just as Venus conjoins Jupiter on Mar 2, Mercury conjoins Saturn. This can temper the overindulgences mentioned above, as our thoughts firmly focus on the consequences.

Mercury-Saturn in Aquarius is more 'dry', more detached and objective, more theoretical and scientific. Yet there is another side to Aquarius that is not often talked about; that is, it's the water-bearer. Although an air sign, it's the recognition that air holds moisture, that thoughts have within them feelings; that feelings are actually the driver of our thoughts.

And yet, Mercury in air signs does so well because it can be more objective - not completely, but more so. Mercury and Saturn are seen to be the least emotional, as they are more connected to the air and earth signs. Yet Venus, the primary planet related to the water element, also rules an air and an earth sign. Air signs show desires, while earth signs are about manifestation. We can desire all we want, but unless and until we rationally apply our intelligence (Mercury) and work at it (Saturn), we are unlikely to make it happen.

So, use all of these conjunctions, Mercury-Saturn, Venus-Jupiter - all of you - to make something happen. Allow any kind of intense desire combined with feeling stuck be the 'creative tension' (thanks for that one, Sharon!), to actualize it. Then, take a step back from what you have created and ask yourself if it is truly what you want; if it is what your 'higher self' wants, including what everyone else wants.

When we are more attuned to the whole, we get what we want as the One who is giving gets everything.

Full Moon in Leo (Pūrvaphalgunī) Mar 7
There are some more enjoyable indications for a Full Moon in Leo and the creative Pūrvaphalgunī. But, just as with the exalted Venus conjunct Jupiter in Pisces, there are some things to be mindful of. Mars, Saturn, and Rahu all have a close eye on the Full Moon. As mentioned for the Venus-Jupiter thing previously, we need to be mindful of overdoing it if we feel stressed around this Full Moon.

Those in a period of Mars and/or Saturn and/or Rahu are likely to feel the stress more so, but how this gets labelled makes all the difference. Stress is not always a bad thing. It's a motivator.

We can all feel the pressure of the Saturn-Sun conjunction through the first couple of weeks of March. This means we must find a place for both our light and dark, our confidence, and lack thereof, as the Moon opposes the Sun.

We can work hard on something even if we doubt ourselves. Actually, we're more likely to work harder at it when we doubt. When don't work as hard when it comes easy. And while that kind of flow feels more natural to us, the hard work we put in before we get to flow is as important. In other words, Saturn is as important as Jupiter in making anything happen. Problems arise when we question and doubt too much. We cannot acheive anything in such a state.

The Sun in Aquarius is about finding confidence in uncertainty and change, that others are there for us when we are there for them; when we align with the greater good. And yet, if we don't have a unique contribution, we have nothing to offer others. Sun in Aquarius is asking for our unique contribution, but not to get carried away with notions of grandeur if we offer something great.

A Full Moon in Leo is about connecting to what lights us up inside. Our feelings need to be heard, but we must acknowledge everyone else in the room with the Sun in the opposite Aquarius, bouncing our idea off of them. The more we can do that, the more confidence we can tap into. The less we do that, the less energy we have to sustain our ego's need for recognition.

There may be only one Sun in our solar system, but we all have to share it!

Mars in Gemini Mar 12 - May 10
Okay. At. Last. Mars moves out of Taurus. Jeez. This has been a long haul, a massive trek through the mud. It's been a hike with so many twists and turns, so much to negotiate with others, that its a wonder we made it through without imploding.

Okay. I'm obviously reflecting on my own experience here. That aside, Mars is now moving on for us all, whatever frustrations you were dealing with because of its backtracking through a sign it does not function so easily in. Mars in Taurus must compromise with others, where the natural impulse for Mars is to just do it regardless of what anyone thinks.

Thinking -now there's another problem for Mars! Mars in Gemini shows we must think more than we may want to. We must also cooperate in yet another sign Mars doesn't express itself freely in. But at least it's another sign - another thing to work out. Things are moving on.

Mars in Gemini is asked to communicate effectively, without getting caught up in arguments or debates that go nowhere; at least, according to its needs.

Mars and Mercury have an 'interesting' relationship. Basically, they don't get along. Mars is about action. Mercury is about deliberating. Action requires, well, action. Talk is cheap for Mars. Yet these two can work together by thinking about what to do and then doing it with a cool, clear head.

By the end of March, Mercury and Mars move into an even more intimate relationship and have more potential of working together more productively. As Mercury enters Aries by Mar 31, it will exchange signs with Mars in Gemini, in a friendlier and cooperative way. It may not be easy for everyone, but those with Gemini, Leo, Libra, Scorpio, Sagittarius, and Pisces prominent should find it easier to cooperate. The rest may have a little more to work out.

We all have all the signs from some perspective, of course, so it's always a mixed bag. You may feel challenged to cooperative about something, but find it easier with something else.

Mars moves out of its 'shadow phase' by Mar 17, past the point it began to backtrack at the end of October last year. This should feel good for those who like to move forward with plans, i.e., everyone of us! Yet it doesn't mean we are not challenged in doing so. Mars is always challenging. That's what builds strength.

But we must be aware of the need for rest when we feel to challenged, and how much we can take. Mars in Gemini is like a live wire, where the nervous energy creates a lot of excitement and tension. How you use it makes all the difference. But if you cannot put it aside, you may not be as effective when it comes to taking the necessary action. This is the downside of Mars in Gemini.

You may end up thinking of all the challenges you are facing that, by the time you get to do something about it, you're spent! It's as important to be able to switch off the nervous energy, so you can get back to it with more gusto after you have recharged.

You wouldn't expect your tech devices to continually work without charging them up every so often, so why expect it from yourself?!

Mars in Gemini is great for communicating directly about what needs to be said, without beating anyone up about it, including yourself. State your case and listen for the reaction from others, so you can adjust your tone. You get more of what you want from others when you communicate better. This includes listening as much as expressing yourself.

Venus in Aries Mar 12 - Apr 6
Venus is no longer willing to meander or take time to appreciate the finer things in life. In Aries, it's ready for action! Yet Venus meets with Rahu and Uranus in Aries, and into an aspect from Saturn, so actions are likely to bring surprises and rebuttals, maybe even shocking events that ask us to take a step back.

Venus in Aries is passionate. Venus conjoined Rahu, exact on Mar 21, is too much. It can show huge spikes and dips, in how we feel. The economy is likely to do something extreme at this point, as our relations, whether personal or global.

The Venus-Rahu conjunction just so happens to be the New Moon and New Lunar Year. This means, Venus-Rahu in Aries is a signature for the year ahead. This is likely to be expressed in economic ups and downs due to war, but it will play out differently in various parts of the world depending on where this is placed for each country (see some below).

Venus conjoins Uranus by Mar 30, before moving into its own sign Taurus in April. Before we get to another sweet spot in the year, we have a bumpy road ahead by the end of March, it seems.

Sun in Pisces Mar 14 - Apr 13
As the Sun enters Pisces, it leaves behind Saturn's sign, and Saturn, for the first time since the beginning of the year. This is always a welcomed transition in the year. January through mid-March is always a bit of a long trek. This year, as was the case since the beginning of 2020, felt even more arduous because of Saturn being co-present.

Now the Sun moves into Pisces, with Venus having been through here recently, and Jupiter continuing through until the end of April, we can certainly feel more optimistic at this point.

The issue now is that Jupiter is moving into combustion, hidden behind the rays of the Sun, exact into April. As it does this while itself in transition into Aries by the end of April, it may feel like the optimism we sense does not have any grounding in what is happening in the world around us. Yet a combust planet is asking us to look without, when all seems lost without.

The Sun conjoins Neptune as it enters Pisces, exact on Mar 15, with Mercury moving in and conjoining Neptune by Mar 16. Whatever you are optimistic about, the picture may seem unclear at this stage.

Saturn in Śatabhiṣaj Mar 14 - Oct 15, 2023 + Nov 23, 2023 - Apr 6, 2024
Saturn enters Śatabhiṣaj by the middle of March, and into the lunar mansion in the middle of Sidereal Aquarius. This marks an important shift within the sign, as it ingresses into Tropical Pisces.

I've noted over the years that astrologers who use Tropical calculations often refer to events occuring when planets transit the end of the Tropical sign. That's because as planets reach the last 6 degrees of a Tropical sign they enter the Sidereal sign of the same name. Of course, they're not the same signs.

I've also noted how the 3 lunar mansions that are evenly split between signs, the 'Mars lunar mansions', Mṛgaśīrṣā, Citrā, and Dhaniṣṭhā, connect both the Sidereal and Tropical signs: Taurus-Gemini, Virgo-Libra, and Capricorn-Aquarius. When planets move out of any of these lunar mansions they have reached the 6-degree mark of the Sidereal sign, which is the beginning of the next Tropical sign, e.g. when Saturn moves into Tropical Pisces in March, it will leave Dhaniṣṭhā in Aquarius and move into Śatabhiṣaj.

I mention this because you are likely to hear a lot from astrologers, mostly from the Western traditions, about Saturn's ingress into Tropical Pisces in March. This correlates with Śatabhiṣaj in sidereal Aquarius. And indeed, the themes are similar.

Śatabhiṣaj and Pisces are both confusing. They blend things together in a way that is hard to fathom. And they include everything, as everything is included from a deeper perspective. The themes of inclusion are going to be prominent for the following year, but so is the theme of exclusion, as Saturn brings up the problems to be solved.

The last time Saturn was here saw a lot of humanitarian issues and social rights movements, e.g. civil rights movements. We're likely to see more of the same in the coming year.

One of the important significations of Śatabhiṣaj is health and healing, for which Saturn is likely to put in place regulations and systems to keep things orderly. Healthcare was a big theme of Saturn's last transit here in the 90s. Yet the order imposed may also be because of a sense of a lack of order, which can then become rigid. Aquarius is as fixed sign, after all. Saturn's inclusion can stress the issues. It's also an air sign. Fixed air can express itself as rigid thinking, or thinking that progress can only be made in such and such a way.

The other key aspect of Saturn in Śatabhiṣaj is related to the deity that rules over it; that is, Varuna, the god of the oceans. This refers to the spiritual realms and awakening, but also points to the depths of the unconscious, as reflected in the deep. This is yet another connection with Tropical Pisces. Another, more obvious, expression of Saturn's transit here is water-related problems, contamination etc., like we've seen in Ohio.

Varuna may be the god of the deep oceans, but Aquarius is also an air sign. So, airborne containments are another expression as we have already seen.

The symbol for Śatabhiṣaj is an empty circle, representing the 'dark Sun', which relates to both Saturn and Rahu, both of which have more of a connection to this lunar mansion and sign, opposite the Sun's sign, Leo.

We're likely to see more conflicts between order and disorder (Saturn and Rahu), as well as between these planets and the Sun. This is likely to be expressed in those challenging leaders and governments which attempt to maintain some sort of order in times of great progress and change.

By the way, you'll also be hearing from Tropical astrologers of Pluto's ingress into Tropical Aquarius in March, because Pluto has now reached the 6-degree mark of Sidereal Capricorn. Just as and when Pluto first entered Sidereal Capricorn, Pluto's transit in 'both zodiacs' in Capricorn since 2020 has shown the collapse of the current system. It won't be until Pluto has reached the end of Sidereal Capricorn, when it enters Sidereal Aquarius in 2040, that we're likely to see more tangible events for which Pluto in Tropical Aquarius has set the stage for. This is how both systems work, but only if you are open to both. If not, you're only going to see what doesn't work and put down the other. This is a modern-day tragedy in astrology circles.

And if there isn't an argument about which zodiac to use, there's an argument about house systems! If you haven't been following it, there's been yet another series of debates/arguments about the use of 'Whole-Sign Houses' amongst prominent Western astrologers.

Back to the here and now. Saturn creates stability, but while it associates with Rahu, instability is often expressed. It's still a need for stability, however. It's just it gets there by shaking things up first. We must move beyond what used to be appropriate to maintain stability.

One more obvious example of Saturn's instability is likely to be worse storms and winds than there have been in recent years. The recent toxic explosions in Ohio is just one example of these kinds of configurations.

We're likely to see more seismic activity as well. Things that collapse now are rebuilt differently later. The things we built on instable foundations, whether literally or figuratively, show their inability to withstand the shake up. The last time Saturn was here 30 years ago saw the longest hurricane on record. If nothing else, Saturn in Aquarius is consistent!

Things are going to change in a big way as Saturn continues to transit through Aquarius. Many things will evolve. The change is absolutely necessary. The sooner we get on board, the sooner we can make the changes work for us.

Look at the house position of Aquarius from your rising sign to see where changes are occuring - and from your Moon sign to see how you feel about it; what you would like to change on some level.

Read an article I wrote about Saturn's transit through Aquarius here

Mercury in Pisces Mar 16 - 31
Mercury moves into its sign of debilitation for the end of the month. Thankfully, this is a brief transit and Jupiter is in Pisces, mitigating Mercury's weakness to a large degree. However, we must still be aware of the mind being frazzled and unable to cope.

Mercury conjoins Neptune as soon as it enters the sign, on Mar 16, so this can be even more confusing. Confusion is not a feeling, it's a state of mind. Remind yourself of this if you 'feel confused'. Yet feelings can be confused, can't they? This is why Mercury has such a hard time with Pisces. The mind cannot fathom why we can feel this way and that at the same time.

The two fish swimming in different directions shows the many things we think and feel at this point, as well as the things that are happening around us and the things going on in our minds. There is great potential here, especially when we acknowledge the undercurrents. We can use them to get to where we need to be. And we can, just like a shoal of fish, move with the energy of the whole, our whole being, including ourselves in the whole of our potential, which is forever combined with everyone else's.

Mercury conjoins Jupiter by exact degree on Mar 28, at which time Jupiter is moving into combustion, hidden from our view. It's at this point of transition, from one stage to the next, and from the inner world to the outer, that we must hold on to the more important indication of all of these indications: faith.

The more we can look within when all around us is confused and lost, the more we can centre ourselves in what always has an eye on what must always be.

On a practical note: Mercury in Pisces is likely to create all kinds of arbitrary situations. We may feel tossed about on the seas of change and unsure as to how to plan our lives effectively. Let go, and all is well. Hold on and you're likely to feel beaten up by the currents.

New Moon in Pisces (Uttara Bhādrapada) Mar 21
This New Moon is a special one in the Vedic calendar. It is used to see the themes of the year ahead, a New Lunar Year. Though all the alignments line up differently depending on your location, there are some general themes we can observe.

The major theme of the year is that progress has started but we are new to it and don't know how to use it. We may feel stuck in something, no matter how enjoyable it is, not knowing how to progress. Yet we cannot go back to the way things were.

This is reflected in the 'scissors yoga' or Papa Katari, as the Sun, Moon, Mercury, Jupiter, and Neptune transit between Saturn and Rahu.

Another striking alignment is the Venus-Rahu exact conjunction (mean node), which likely means a highly volatile year for the economy and global relations. This may even mean war on a bigger scale, as well as the economic propping up and eventual downfall.

Personally, we are asked to think differently about our finances, maybe even change them completely, as well as how we interact with others, in our personal and professional lives.

Yet despite these challenges, or perhaps because of them, there is hope. And while Kishori tells us that hope is an "unword", and actually points to a lack of allowing, we can use it to open the floodgates and let what is dying to come through to flow. I'm using this analogy very purposefully, when we consider this alignment and the need to contain it within Pisces. Weather and floods, as well as containment of leaks, are likely to play a big part of the year ahead.

Where this all lines up makes a difference, of course. A chart is calculated for each country based on the capital city and the timing of the New Moon. The charts I have included are for London (above), which is the same rising sign for Dublin (Leo), with Washington DC, Beijing, and Moscow below.

U.S. New Lunar Year

China Lunar New Year

Russia Lunar New Year

What may feel stuck is different for each country and region, with the U.S. tackling leaderships issues, China, homeland security, and Russia, not surprisingly, direct confrontation. This is the same for Ukraine and central European countries, as the New Moon is hemmed in in the 7th house of these charts.

Saturn and Rahu's interactions with these planets and New Moon may show things are stuck, which may express itself an entrenched situations in the war.

Leadership in countries more directly involved in the war are likely to be challenged as Mars sits in the 10th house of Gemini as the 3rd and 8th lord. This could be an outright challenge and attack or more blustering rhetoric, depending.

In each and everyone of these charts, the Venus-Rahu conjunction impacts financial concerns. Again, no surprise there, I guess. But it means that each region experiences and handles the ups and downs differently.

I'll do more on these charts but if you have a country not listed you would like me to look at, let me know.

Śobhakṛta Year Mar 2023 - Apr 2024
The samvatsara refers to the 60 'Jovian years'. These are due to the transits of Jupiter and Saturn. Every 60 years, Jupiter and Saturn return to same relationship they were in 60 years previous. Each year has a particular theme. When someone is born during a particular year, it begins the 60-year cycle once again around the age of 60.

The upcoming Jovian year is called Śobhakṛta or Śobhana. It begins on Mar 21, 2023 and ends on the next New Moon in Pisces on Apr 8, 2024.

According to Jataka Parijata, the person born in the year Śobhakṛta will be "wise, possessed of royal virtues and fond of learned pursuits." Śobhana means 'lustre', 'light', 'graceful' and 'good'.

The Jovian year cannot be the only thing to see the themes based on the transits for the year, but it does look like more 'hopeful' than more recent years, at least. Again, I am reminded that where there is hope, there is fear; that there is much of both for the New Year.

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Happy New Lunar Year, everyone!

Om Tat Sat

1/2/2023

February 2023 Forecast

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Mercury joins Pluto by Feb 10, and is the last planet to have to deal with the 'underworld' of Pluto for a while. Venus joins Neptune by Valentine’s Day. This could be a dreamy combination, especially once Venus moves into Pisces on Feb 15. Venus in Pisces is one of the sweet spots of the year. This year, it is with Jupiter, so it might be too much of a good thing, brought about by feeling stuck in some way. Planets in Pisces are flanked by Saturn and Rahu in Aquarius and Aries.

The Sun meets with Saturn at this time, which means Saturn is now in combustion. They do so in Aquarius, the sign of innovation. Whatever new plan we would love to put in place at this point, there is a lot we cannot see clearly as yet. This is an 'identity crisis' combination, which could show us indulging other things to compensate for feeling less confident in ourselves.

Neptune re-enters Pisces on Feb 18, moving back into a sign it’s very much at home in. Neptune re-joining Jupiter in Pisces may show yet more water-related issues, especially for those in areas where the actual weather, apart from the astrological weather, plays a big part. Neptune and Jupiter, and now also Venus, can show a lot of idealism but a lack of clarity. Neptune in Pisces can be both good and bad, as everything in Pisces can be. This may confuse the hell out of us, as conflicting reports and feelings occur simultaneously.

Neptune departure from Aquarius is the end of an illusion, a fantasy, as Saturn replaces Neptune in the sign. Those rose-tinted glasses are now truly off. But by seeing the situation as it truly is - in the area you experience Aquarius - you are more likely to do something about it.

February may be like the beginning of an abstract painting, before the image takes shape. It's a swirl of colours, of potentials, that are still unclear. But at least the elements are beginning to work together, as opposed to recent configurations, where everything felt disjointed and contrasted. This is due to Saturn's entry into Aquarius, in a sextile and friendlier relationship to Uranus and Rahu in Aries, making it easier to implement the necessary changes.

Full Moon in Cancer (Āśleṣā) Feb 5
The culmination point of the Full Moon in Cancer is a time to find balance between what we must do and what we would like to. It's a time to look at how our attachments, our likes and dislikes, play a role in getting anything done - or not!

Āśleṣā means ‘embrace’ and ‘clinging’, reflecting skills in mental and emotional manipulation - for good or ill. It is ruled by the Sarpas, the serpent deities, while its symbol is a coiled snake. Snakes represents hidden, occult knowledge and spiritual awakening, as well as poisons, which shows an interest in treating illness. This sign creates immense spiritual and healing powers.

When the Moon transits Āśleṣā, it's a good day for secret knowledge, removing poisons and treating disease, of the body and mind.

An aspect from Jupiter helps to discern what is a healthy attachment and what is not.

Mercury in Capricorn Feb 7 - 27
Mercury moves past the point it began to retrograde at the end of 2023 and we can do the same. This means, planning ahead and getting on with business.

Mercury in Capricorn is a sober and detached view of proceedings. Mercury is a more detached part of our being, anyway. It represents the intellect, which does better by not involving the emotions. Understanding emotional instincts is helpful, of course, but making decisions when we are 'too emotional' is not always advised.

Mercury meets with Pluto on Feb 10, asking us to be even more objective and detached about our shadow, the things that block us from getting to where we need to be. But, at the same time, it tells us something important about how we can get there - by revealing the blocks.

Thankfully, we are not dealing with Mercury's retrograde, or Mars and Rahu's more forcefully aspects to Mercury, which pushed us around in January. In February, we can be cool and collected about we are planning and doing.

We no longer have to make something happen that is unrealistic. We can begin where we're at.

Sun in Aquarius Feb 12 - Mar 13
The Sun's ingress into Aquarius by mid-February brings us into new territory in a way we haven't seen in a few years, since the Sun entered Capricorn at the beginning of 2020. We can now progress in ways we could not since then.

There is the issue of the Sun's conjunction with Saturn by Feb 16 (combustion), of course. This means Saturn is not visible, its outer significations being obscured by the Sun. When we cannot see Saturn, we cannot see the form take shape as easily. We must look within to find that stability.

We may feel unsure about ourselves as the Sun conjoins Saturn, despite the momentum of all the planets moving forward. We may feel unsure as to how to implement it. We may lack a sense of stability as new systems slowly take shape. You will feel this in the area of Aquarius by house position in your chart.

Every time the Sun and Saturn meet there is conflict in the world around us, reflected in a fight between leaders and the population. We feel this struggle within ourselves, a fight between our light and dark, our confidence and doubts.

You may feel this as a sense of conflict between how you know you need to progress, but lack the confidence to do so. Thankfully, this combustion is a temporary expression of Saturn in Aquarius, which is going to move things along whatever we feel about it, anyway. It's just likely to be easier to do so once the Sun enters Pisces and leaves Saturn in Aquarius to get on with building anew.

Venus in Pisces Feb 15 - Mar 12
Okay, finally, a nicer transit to write about! This is one of the sweet spots in the year. Venus in Pisces is usually a time to enjoy life, whatever is showing up in our experience. This year, Venus is conjoined by both Neptune (from Feb 18) and Jupiter (exact Mar 2), leading to the potential for many enjoyable experiences - many too many!

There is a major caveat with this, however. Venus in Pisces is flanked either side by Saturn and Rahu, making it feel like we are stuck. In a way, we are all stuck as Venus, Neptune, and Jupiter transit between Saturn and Rahu. It's not clear how to move forward as yet, but we cannot go back to the way things were either.

This is where one of the most important aspects of Venus in Pisces comes to the rescue; that is, the ability to be happy with whatever is going on, wherever you find yourself. If you're going to be stuck, well, why not enjoy it!

The other downside as mentioned is that Venus, Jupiter and Neptune combined can be too much of a good thing. This could also lead to more inflationary trends globally, as well as floods. Yet this may be where the containment of Saturn and Rahu is of help.

Personally, we must be mindful of tripping out for some relief, especially if that adds to a problem. Those making decisions about the economy beware!

There's a lot we can do with this combination, as long as we are mindful of not overdoing it. And if you are not clear about what you are doing, you can take a step back and get clear before venturing into anything more at this point. And you can enjoy the process.

Another caveat is that although Venus in Pisces is happy for no reason, Jupiter in Pisces is looking for something more meaningful than just pleasure-seeking. Nothing wrong with pleasure (says someone with Venus rising!), as long as we are doing something more meaningful as well.

One way Venus and Jupiter could express itself is through gatherings that allow us feel more connected to others. This is such a crucial part of life but we may forgo it for other concerns. Now is the time to find more of this connection. This may bring about some intensely enjoyable experiences that allow us to move beyond our everyday worries.

The downside of this is economic and in the ongoing war. Venus-Jupiter-Neptune could show inflationary cycles and even the use of chemical warfare, so don't fool yourself into thinking it is all good.

Another example of this is Japan is about to release 1.25 million tons of treated wastewater contaminated by the wrecked Fukushima Nuclear Power Plant into the Pacific Ocean. This is certainly one of the less advantageous indications of planets gathering in Pisces. Again, let's trust that the Saturn-Rahu configuration also shows proper containment.

Japan are set to release it on Apr 5, just as Jupiter finishes up its transit in Pisces. The last time Jupiter was in Pisces was when the disaster occurred, of course. Water issues are likely to play a big role throughout 2023 and beyond, because of this and other transits, including Neptune's long transit in Pisces.

Neptune re-enters Pisces Feb 18
Neptune returns to Pisces after a brief dip in last year, transiting here until 2036/37. This is a big deal. It's likely to reflected in some extreme idealism, born out of chaos, as Neptune is joined by Saturn and then Rahu in the next few years.

This is the beginning of the end of so many structures in our lives we took for granted for so long. Of course, the collapse of certain structures means anything is possible. This s where the idealism comes in. But we must be on guard with the downside of Pisces in that anything being possible often means nothing is achieved.

Neptune in Pisces may reflect the installation of virtual worlds many disappear into, and concrete worlds and areas of the world that actually disappear under water.

The kinds of technological innovations that take place in this period are likely to create so many possibilities, and complexities, that we won't know what or who to believe. Deep fakes? If only that were all we had to think about! Yes, things are about to get very confusing indeed.

But herein lies an opportunity. We can tune into what is real beyond the perplexing events and revelations in the world around us. We can tap into something that is beyond all that. Things we never thought possible suddenly are. Things we never even dreamt up in our imagination become common place. You get the picture. Or do you? You see, Neptune in Pisces is vague on details. And herein lies one of the most troublesome indications of the sign when Neptune gets involved; that is, delusion.

As long as we are not copping out to cope, we can tune in to help us deal with what we need to. When we see things happen that we never dreamt of, we can imagine something better and focus our attention on it. More importantly, when we see things happen we never dreamt possible, we then believe anything is possible.

By the time Neptune completes its transit in Pisces by 2037, after initially moving into Aries in 2036, the world will no longer be the same. While any 14-year period moves the story forward, the next 14 years will likely do so in ways we cannot imagine right now.

When we take other transit into account, including Saturn's and Rahu's conjunctions with Neptune in 2025-26, followed by Saturn's conjunction with Uranus in Taurus and Gemini by the end of the decade, we're likely to see many revolutions, wars, and many more things collapse, upending the current world order; all of which would make our heads spin if we try to incorporate it now. And while things may take a leap ahead in the coming years, we will cope. One day at a time. We will integrate the changes. It will eventually trickle down in our day-to-day lives in Virgo, where we can assimilate it all.

The end of order brings an opportunity for a new one. We can dare to dream. Yet we must be mindful of those who would use the collapse for their own advantage, thus, creating a nightmare. We can take advantage of the collapse without isolating ourselves from others in an attempt to connect through new technologies. We can dream up a new world where we use it for our betterment.

As all the world changes beyond recognition, we must use Neptune's transit in Pisces as a way to tune in, not cope out. 'Spiritual bypassing' is likely to take on a whole new level for those who cannot cope. We can use any kind of spiritual practices to help others, even if it's just by being more alive and more able to give, instead of adding to the world's problems.

Once we connect with something beyond this uncertain existence, we can cope with any uncertainties, including an end to the way things were for so long. Things will never be the same again. We must see this as a positive thing. The current order cannot continue, economically, politically, socially; mentally, emotionally, spiritually.

Personally, look to the sign position of Pisces in your birth chart counting from your rising and Moon signs, to see what areas you are likely to be at least a little idealistic in the coming years. You may not see the picture clearly at first, but see that as a good thing, so you can dream up a better way. There's plenty of time to fill in the details as the pcture comes into focus.

New Moon in Aquarius (Śatabhiṣaj) Feb 20
The February New Moon takes place with Saturn in Aquarius, which is preparing to move into Śatabhiṣaj next month, the lunar mansion the New Moon takes place in.

Śatabhiṣaj means '100 healers' or '100 demons', depending on how you interpret the word. It displays apparently contradictory impulses. There's is always something else to consider. The fact that this star sign contains so many faint stars (100 stars), it can add to confusion and a diffusion of focus. And this is what we may lack for this New Moon and new lunar month.

Focus is probably the most important asset we have moving into a new age of technological advancement, anyway. And while New Moons are usually felt as being more scattered and unfocused, it reminds of of what we must work on.

Śatabhiṣaj is ruled by the god of the sea, representing the underworld, the darkness of the hidden realms and secrecy, as well as the cosmic realms and enlightenment. One of its symbols is an empty circle, representing the inclusion of all these apparent opposites.

When the Moon transits Śatabhiṣaj, it's a good day for purification therapies, travel, and philosophy. There is likely a sense of something new coming into our awareness in the coming month. We may personally have some realisation. There may be some, or many, new technological advancements, more treatments and drugs, as well as advances in space travel.

New ways to connect are likely to be rolled out which actually disconnect us more. It's kind of like when you buy a new piece of tech and you spend hours figuring out how to use it. Imagine you were given a mind for the first time. "Wow, this thing can do so much!" "Oh wait, where's the off button?!"

Rahu in Aśvinī Feb 21 - Oct 30
Rahu (mean north node) enters the first lunar mansion Aśvinī by the end of February, triggering a need to start something new - or simply triggering us! Rahu in the previous Bharaṇī was more restrained, but Aśvinī has already bolted before you have time to think about what's happening. Rahu is shocking.

Aśvinī may be all about new beginnings, but Rahu moves backwards, bringing us back through the steps as an afterthought. But it gets even more complicated. As Rahu transits Aśvinī, Ketu continues to transits Svātī. This means, the lunar nodes are in each other's star signs, mixing them up in all kinds of interesting ways. This adds further complexity to already complex situations around the world, including in wars and pandemics.

It's confusing because when you look to the future (Rahu), it points you to the past for answers (Ketu). But when you look to the past for answers, it points you to the future!

We get stuck in a loop and cannot fathom how to get out of the conundrum. 'The only way out is in'. The only way out is to recognise the repeating pattern in your own life, to step far enough back to be able to see how this has all played out before. Faces and places may have changed, but it's the same story.

Rahu in Aśvinī may show people in powerful positions being usurped, bringing out those from the shadows that we're biding their time. There is the shadow part of us that is willing to do anything to get what we want. Projecting our shadow at more obvious expressions will not help us out of our own loop.

Rahu in Aśvinī challenges how we use energy and how we move on something. As always, Rahu is extreme. It can either block things completely, or be completely reckless. It's likely to represent itself as both while it transits this star sign. But it also brings innovation, in movement and in healthcare, two of the main significations of the sign. It helps us break through our blocks, by allowing us to see them, to shake off the shackles that have been holding us back.

There is, as always, a caveat. Saturn is aspecting Rahu as it enters Aquarius. The positive spin is an inability to be completely reckless, to jump before considering the long term implications. The negative spin is we do it anyway, despite all the warning signals. Then, we complain about it.

Jupiter and the Sun's transit through Aśvinī by the end of April are likely to be major triggers for this. But while it may be expressed more obviously in the world around us, it's important to look at it in your own life, to see where our own raw power is being usurped by some unplanned, unforeseen circumstance - and to use that to wake up.

Globally, we're likely to see many shocking events in the coming months that wake us up.
We're usually asleep at the wheel in our lives. Rahu comes along to disrupt the natural order of things. It especially does this while it conjoins Jupiter. This will begin as Jupiter enters Aśvinī from Apr 21. The last time they came together was in 2016, the 'year of rebellion'. We are due another rebellion, it seems.

The fact that this occurs in Aries and Aśvinī is likely to create a lot of volatility, in energy supplies and energy in general, in healthcare, and in travel, around this planet or lifting off from it. We're likely to see many famous folk pass who were pioneers in their field (Aries), and we're likely to see things pass boundaries we never thought possible. This all adds to the potential of this time, but also to the confusion.

Unfortunately, we're also likely to see an escalation in the war in Ukraine, but hopefully (there's that "unword" again!), Saturn's aspect might keep things limited to the region. Yet we must be aware of the potential for the war to spill out over borders, causing more shock and disturbance.

2023 is likely to be a year we look back on that shakes things up forever more. We can do that for ourselves more consciously, of course. We can mindfully rebel against the impositions placed upon us, to rally everything we've got to start something new in our lives.

We have all the ingredients to prepare for another major shake up on our planet and in our lives.

-

I wish you all the very best for the month ahead.

Om Tat Sat

1/1/2023

January 2023 Forecast

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The New Year begins as it did in 2022, with a Venus-Pluto conjunction. Venus is itself emerging from its combustion, after being burnt up in the purifying rays of the Sun. As Venus re-emerges alongside Pluto, it may show something we could not see before.

It's time to get real, as Venus reappears in the sign Capricorn, meeting with Saturn in Aquarius in February. Make reality your friend, and people get closer. Try to avoid the issues and a distance may develop between you.

Mercury is retrograde from the beginning of 2023, having stationed on Dec 29, 2022. So, it’s not in any way a fresh, clean start to 2023 in January. It’s full of setbacks and frustrations because of Mercury's, and Mars’, continued retrograde. Mars stations direct by Jan 12, with Mercury stationing direct by Jan 18. There may be some frustration until after this period, as Mars aspects Mercury. Whatever we wish to achieve must be approached patiently.

Saturn enters Aquarius on Jan 17, a key turning point in the depths of the winter on the northern hemisphere. Although changes are slow to take hold anywhere on the planet, they are slowly doing so. Venus joins Saturn in Aquarius by Jan 22, requiring realism that may not always feel good. This may lead to a sombre mood, but at least we’re all more aware of what must be done at this point.

Venus conjunct Pluto Jan 1
Venus has just returned to our evening skies after its period of combustion. This is a more sensual and loving role for Venus, as evenings are best kept for romance and enjoyments, the division of the day related to Venus being 6 to 9pm.

As Venus reappears, however, it must meet with the 'lord of the underworld', Pluto in the sign Capricorn, and then with Saturn in February in Aquarius. When we add this to the northern hemisphere's experience of winter, it may get quite bleak.

Though Venus and Saturn are seen as friendly to each other, they have an interesting relationship. Saturn restricts things, of course. But Venus-related things can benefit from a bit of restraint. If we continually overindulged, we don't enjoy things as much. The New Year period is usually a time we restrain ourselves naturally anyway, as Venus is usually transiting Saturn's signs.

Pluto is a different story. Its conjunction with Venus can reveal all kinds of hidden dynamics and intrigues we may not wish to expose. But it can also show the blocks we have, or the problems we create for ourselves we may or may not be willing to look at.

We're usually quite happy to look at others' blocks, but not so much our own. Others play out our deepest, darkest desires, even if it's only in art and storytelling.

Venus conjunct Pluto in Capricorn and a lunar mansion that is all about austerity can bring up all kinds of issues with having to do without. We may project our fears of lack on others who seem to be controlling the flow. They may indeed be, but many times we may simply think they are.

We may not wish to look at something within ourselves that is just too 'dark', and point the finger at those who display these traits more obviously on the world stage. That's not usually a problem for us, but when we do it with our partner's or others in our circle we can cause issues.

Recognizing you may have an ulterior motive for acting a certain way, or simply acknowledging feelings that might be a little uncomfortable, can mend relationships as you both delve into the issues.

The benefit of Venus in Capricorn is the ability to take a step back and ask if it's worth it. This may be a question you ask about a relationship or some purchase. In either case, try not to bury your head in the sand about the issues, as and when Venus meets with Saturn by Jan 22, you can no longer avoid them.

Full Moon in Gemini (Punarvasu) Jan 6
The Moon reaches the opposite degree to the Sun in sidereal Sagittarius and the lunar mansion, Punarvasu, meaning 'light again'. The light returns after the storm, clarity after confusion.

The more the confusion, the more the clarity feels like a breath of fresh air. Yet this may be not easily accessed with Mercury and Mars continuing to retrograde. Mercury conjoins the Sun's degree on Jan 7, its inferior conjunction, the mid-point in the retrograde cycle. This is, in essence, a 'New Mercury', opposite this Full Moon. This may feel like a culmination point in your life, yet you may not know exactly how to progress, especially in any practical way.

It is progress, nonetheless. There is something to resolve as always with a Full Moon phase. Adding Mercury retrograde into the mix simply means more things to work out. Try not to let the mind and emotions get carried away if there are seemingly too many things to figure out. As Kishori tells us, "mind rooted in the Heartfield" is more effective.

But knowing this and living it are two different things. You may know this intellectually, yet struggle to find balance emotionally with this Full Moon in Gemini opposite Mercury retrograde.

Mars stations Direct Jan 12
Have you been feeling like you've been dragging your feet in some aspect of your life lately? Or, have you felt your feet pulled from under you?! Well, you can thank Mars retrograde for that!

Now that it's about to station direct in January, you may feel the energy and intensity actually build, yet with no clear route forward until after mid-month. This is a time to be particularly patient, with yourself and others.

The point many astrologers often forget to mention, for any transit, is that the longer a transit is in effect, the more likely we are to feel its effects, for good or ill. The longer and more challenging something is in your life, the more you are going to perceive it as such. If Mars retrograde started out with irritability, it's likely to end with problems, especially if you allowed the energy to build and build, without any means of a healthy outlet. The energy has to go somewhere.

Of course, the other side of the coin is that you may be so used to setbacks at this stage that it becomes the norm. Yet it is not the norm, so get ready to start moving forward again! The issue with that is Mars stationing direct could be quite explosive. Really, more explosive? Yes, I'm afraid so.

Mars retrograde is one reason we're seeing more and more seismic activity, more volcanoes, for example. But also more shootings. The energy explodes in ways we would prefer it didn't. On its own, Mars retrograde is enough to make even the most peaceful person snap at you. Add in all the other issues and we have major triggers we must be mindful of and manage.

While it is certainly good news that Mars is now stopping its backwards motion, it's not going anywhere in January, so we must be extra patient with it. Look to what is opening up ahead and keep your eye on the horizon. At the same time, keep doing what you must where you are now.

Whatever area of life Mars represents for you personally, keep a close eye on it, but don't get obsessed about it. Find ways to blow off some steam while using the time productively. Hopefully, you will have used Mars retrograde for what's it's best for, i.e., redoing something in your life that gives you a sense of empowerment. If you've been particularly challenged by someone or something, maybe now is the time to acknowledge the benefit of the challenge, so you can strengthen yourself in the process.

And while individually we can always channel the best of what the planets suggest, we must be on guard for the more negative expressions of this in the world. This is especially felt around resources and finances, Taurean themes. We must be patient with what we are seeing unfold, and have the courage to face certain things, while looking ahead now, so we can take all that has been worked out and apply it to the next stage.

The next stage is from Mars' station from mid-January until the beginning of March, when it finally moves into new territory. This stage is about moving back over something we already have gone over twice before; once in direct motion and once in retrograde motion, at the end of last year. Now that we're moving back over it again once last time, we should know the drill and make it work better.

It's kind of like an exercise routine you've never done before. You try it once and it doesn't work for you (or so it seems). You then redo it with another approach. That gave you more insights into what may work, but it didn't quite do it either. Finally, you do it again like you did the first time you were instructed to, but this time, you have a crucial part of the routine: experience. Now that you have some experience, if you continue to do it wrong, whatever area of our life that is, you've really only got one person to blame.

It's time to take it on board and not shirk away from what you know you must do. Everyone must do the same. And while not everyone will, you must let them get on with it.

Yet you must also compromise when you do anything. That's the trickiest part of Mars in Taurus. You must negotiate with others to get what you want. Mars doesn't enjoy this part but it's an absolute must. But because you haven't got what you wanted yet, you're likely to try to force your hand as it stations direct. Do so if you must, but think about others as allies in getting where you want to be.

Sun in Capricorn Jan 14 - Feb 12
Before we get to the big transit of January; that is, Saturn's entry into Aquarius, we must shine a spotlight on where Saturn has left its mark in the last two years. As the Sun enters Capricorn, it asks us to look at the fears that hold us back from progressing in life. It may feel like a rude awakening. There's no hiding the issues. Yet it can also feel like the a silver lining, even a rainbow, on a dark and gloomy day.

Things have progressed so much since Saturn made it's way into Capricorn since the beginning of 2020. Yet much has felt stunted or delayed. If you were to look at this as progress, that these things must be removed to move forward, you're likely to have a better time of it by the beginning of 2023.

There's no looking back now, except to make sure you are putting what is behind you in the rearview. It's time to make that new plan, in the cold light of day. It's time to see the saboteur at work (Sun conjunct Pluto Jan 18), so you know what to avoid on your new journey.

2023 starts in earnest now. You can too.

Saturn enters Aquarius Jan 17
This one's a biggie, folks! Saturn changing signs, and staying there, is such an important transition in our lives every few years. I needn't go on about the last time it changed in January 2020, as it's time to move on, but if you wish to revisit what or who was lost at this stage, before it moves on Jan 17, then by all means do so.

But as soon as it moves, make your move. I write this because I know from reading people's charts over the years that people do not generally do so with Saturn-type things. I'm including myself in that. We tend to put off doing what we know we should. It has even entered our language in the New Age as, "don't tell me what I should do". It's why Saturn has become demonized to a large extent.

But we all know what we should, and shouldn't, be doing. I guess that's why we don't like being told it! It just reminds us that we are not doing what we should (or continuing to do what we shouldn't).

The other point to make here is that once Saturn moves, we could do with dropping the past, as quickly as possible, or at least, the things in the past that no longer serve us. While that is true at all times, this is never more so the case then when Saturn moves into Aquarius.

Saturn in Aquarius is about implementing some new idea, and sticking with it. Now, that has it's downsides, too. If you do something and it just doesn't work, do you think you should continue doing it? Of course not! Yet that is what we do all the time.

Saturn in Aquarius is going to let us know what works and what doesn't. Anytime you do something new, check whether it works or not. If not, drop it or adjust. It's a new idea, so don't be surprised if you don't get it right the first time around. You're going to be redoing it many times in the next few years, as Saturn moves back and over the sign.

While there's no rush in implementing your new ideas, there's no time to waste!

As Saturn moves into Aquarius, it enters the Libra 9th division at the beginning of the sign, until Feb 14. This is a particularly powerful position for the planet of form and stability. It shows an underlying strength. Yes, Saturn will then move into combustion (exact Feb 16), reflecting an outer weakness along with an inner strength. Anything that no longer works can be used to strengthen your resolve at this point. Focus on your resolve to build what you want, from within. The outer stuff will line up later.

Yet Saturn in Aquarius is as much about others, even humanity, as it is about what you want. You're probably going to fair better with this transit if you can think about the impact your actions have on other people, on your community, even the global.

Read an article detailing some of the main themes of Saturn's transit in Aquarius titled, Resist Resistance here.

Mercury stations Direct Jan 18
As Mercury stations, and as Mars slowly begins to move forward, we can finally feel like 2023 is kicking into gear. Yet as anyone who drives knows, we must step up in gears. We cannot go from 1st to 5th straight away. January is a stepping up from reverse gear in many ways, so we need to completely reorientate ourselves as our lives turn around in some aspects.

Mercury's direct stations are always full of excitment and potential. Unlike its retrograde station, which feels as if everything is getting backed up and frustrating, its direct station feels like a promise of something new. The pace of life picks up and we feel excited for something moving forward at last.

As with the Mars station, be patient in January with anything you are planning. It's going to feel like a slow month in the beginning. Yet there are lots of things being worked out at this point. Allow them to work themselves out in their own good time.

It's kind of like when you have a tech issue and you get frustrated with it, trying to fix it as quickly as you can. Sometimes, you just have to turn off the computer and walk away! Ditto for any kind of plans in your life until Mercury stations. Sometimes, you just have to put it out there and step back for a minute. Let it work itself out for a while. The next time to approach it, it will be a lot easier to manage, as soon as Mercury begins to move forward again by the end of the month.

In the meantime, be patient with this area of life, especially regarding travel and trade, business dealings and communications.

Mercury in Sagittarius is about communicating something we hope for. We just have to be open to getting the details wrong in the beginning. That's okay. Make your mistakes. Refine it. Rephrase it until it has meaning. When you sense what that is, go with that.

The Sun conjoins Pluto by degree on Jan 18, just as Mercury stations, highlighting the saboteur, the wrench in the works, the part of you that may work against your own best interests. What are your best interests, anyway?

It's time to get to know them. It's also time to get to know what stops you from achieving them.

New Moon in Capricorn (Uttarāṣāḍhā ) Jan 21
The Moon reaches the Sun's degree in sidereal Capricorn, just as Venus is about to move into Aquarius to meet with Saturn. This New Moon may feel a bit sober, as pleasures are curtailed in favour of progress.

The Moon's transit in Uttarāṣaḍhā is itself a time to bear some hardship, some austerity, one of the symbols of the lunar mansion being the planks of a bed. We must give something up to get where we need to be at this point. Think of this time as a lightening your load for the journey ahead.

A New Moon in Uttarāṣaḍhā and Capricorn is certainly a long journey, or at least it may seem that way from this vantage point. But the journey itself is no longer or shorter than any. It's simply a matter of perspective. But here's the thing: the way in which you perceive a long journey will often dictate whether you'll even start it, or how you view it. If you see this as a challenge to get to where you need to be, you may simply get on with it. If you're not sure if you're up for it, or not sure if it's meant for you, you may not even take the journey, let alone enjoy it.

This New Moon is about getting clear, crystal clear, about where you are meant to be going in the first place. When you figure that out, nothing and no one is going to stop you from getting to where you need to be.

Uranus stations Direct Jan 22
Okay, now we're getting somewhere. Now, all these planets are moving forward - all of them. It's now time to move forward with your plans, and make external changes in your environment that reflect the new you.

As Uranus stations direct in sidereal Aries, it's time to do something with this new you. Yet it's also time to be open to surprises. You don't know how something will pan out until you do it, so why not treat it as an experiment?

Venus conjoins Saturn by degree on Jan 22 also. With the planet of desire-fulfillment conjunct the planet of focus and restraint, we can certainly channel these with Uranus's station to implement something, but only if we are focused and patient. Patience is the word for January, it seems. The more of it we have, the more likely we'll have a better time with it. And the more we're likely to get done.

The less patient we are, with our plans, with others, the less others, and plans, can work out to our advantage. Uranus's station in Aries is certainly about our plans, regardless of what anyone else is doing, but if we blow this out of proportion with the other transits and needs, including and especially Mars's station in Taurus, we are only going to upset others and not get what we want anyway.

Venus in Aquarius Jan 22 - Feb 15
As Venus enters Aquarius, it meets with Saturn which has just moved in and set up shop. This can be a time to evaluate the new office space, to see if it's a nice fit. Maybe it needs a refit, or some embellishments. This is about finding something to enjoy in the progress you're making in this area of your life.

Though it may not feel like much progress, you can stick with it if there's something to enjoy. Yet Venus conjoined Saturn may feel like some ambitious monster that doesn't know when to let its hair down.

Venus in Aquarius is about more than just having a good time. Clearly, it's not a breeze when conjunct Saturn. This is likely to be felt as challenging, to the economy, to relations, to diplomacy, to peace. But Venus in Aquarius, as every planet in Aquarius would contest, has a universal side to it, a universal love with Venus, you might say. It's about reaching beyond what or who we love individually, without neglecting that either. It's about thinking universally, even globally.

Venus in Aquarius is about expanding our capacity to love and be loved, to open ourselves up to new possibilities. Yes, it may challenge our boundaries, or we may challenge others' boundaries, but without ever doing so, we would never know how far we can go, how much more we can love.

-

Wishing you all the very best for the month of January, and the New Year!

Om Tat Sat

1/12/2022

December 2022 Forecast

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Venus opposes Mars on Dec 1 as they exchange signs. This could be a passionate tryst, or an argument, depending. Neptune stations direct on Dec 3, at the very end of Aquarius, heralding its eventual exit from Aquarius in the New Year, having spent 14 years in the sign. It's time to dream a new dream.

Mercury enters Sagittarius on Dec 3, followed by Venus on Dec 5, a sign it began the year with. This means both planets are crossing the divide between watery Scorpio and fiery Sagittarius, a potentially volatile period in business, travel, relations and the economy.

A retrograde Mars opposes the Sun on Dec 8. There is much to rework, with the Sun shining a spotlight on what needs to be redone. The Sun enters Sagittarius on Dec 16, placing it with Mercury and Venus. All these are influenced by a frustrated Mars in Taurus. You may have to approach how you do anything differently, while hoping for something better.

Mercury enters Capricorn and joins Pluto and Saturn on Dec 27, but only just, as it stations retrograde on Dec 29 and re-enters Sagittarius on Dec 30. The year ends with a major review that continues into the New Year.

Venus enters Capricorn on Dec 29, finishing the year as it did in 2021, conjunct Pluto in Capricorn. This time, Venus will not retreat into the underworld with Pluto. Instead, it will reemerge in the evening skies with a new look to try on. Some skeletons may emerge from the closet.

Neptune stations Direct Dec 3
This is the last time Neptune will station in Aquarius, before moving into Pisces in February 2023. It will remain in Pisces until 2036. It will not return to Aquarius until 2173.

Whatever area of your life Aquarius represents, you've probably had an ideal situation in your mind's eye for many years now. Now that Neptune is about to leave, it's worth noting what that ideal is, and if it is potentially a reality. It's time to take the rose-tinted glasses off.

Saturn will move into Aquarius in January and will either make real your dreams, or let you know if it's a pipe dream and unrealistic. It's time to get real about this area of your life and, in doing so, to make real your aspirations.

But before we get ahead of ourselves, Neptune hasn't left Aquarius yet! And even when it does, it hangs out in the lunar mansion that bridges both Aquarius and Pisces, i.e., Purva Bhadrapada, for another couple of years. It will not move out of this lunar mansion until 2025, when it meets with Saturn in Pisces. And because Saturn and Rahu both rule Aquarius, and Neptune will meet with both of these in the coming years, the picture will not become clear for some time to come.

Before we get to the revolutions and dissolutions of the current structures, we must go through a couple of years of finishing up the themes of Neptune in Purva Bhadrapada; that is, themes of deception. We must go through a couple more years of being at least a little confused about what is real and what is not. And when there is confusion, it stunts the revolutionary impulse because if you don't know what's what, you don't know where to direct your attention and energy.

One of the symbols of Purva Bhadrapada is a two-faced man. Neptune here only serves to blurs the lines between truth and falsity all the more. It also reflects themes of life and death, as another symbol of this lunar mansion is the front legs of a funeral bed.

At least the Pisces division of the lunar mansion shows less antagonism, despite the bewilderment we must face. Or indeed, because of the confusion that is possible. You're unlikely to argue with someone if you don't know what they're talking about!

Take the time in December and January to dream your dream, and allow it to come into focus. Some dreams may be brought down to earth, but some may crash and burn.

As high as you go is as long as you go.

If you're dreams are undoable, Saturn's subsequent transit here for the next couple of years will let you know through a slow dawning and realisation. But if your dreams are doable, it's time to get to work on them and make them happen.

My dream is to have my own house (Aquarius is my 4th house). Saturn also rules my 3rd house of initiate, so it will likely test me to make it happen. It will become clear in the coming years if I can make it a reality.

What dream would you like to make real? Look to the signs Capricorn, and especially Aquarius, to see where you can now get real and get on with it.

Mercury in Sagittarius Dec 3 - 27
Mercury crosses the gandanta (end of a knot) section of the zodiac between Scorpio and Sagittarius before Venus. This is where the significations of the planets can come undone for a while, as the need to let go of the fear in Scorpio leads to a new hope in Sagittarius.

No Hope, No Fear.

This section of the zodiac embodies that sentiment more than any other. By hoping or fearing, we are actually not present to what is. Planets transiting this part of the zodiac ask us to let go - into the present moment - and slip between our hopes and fears.

You how it goes: you sit in meditation and you immediately realise you've been holding onto stress in your body. Recognizing this allows you to let go and relax more into the moment. You may keep a focus on something such as the breath. Yet it's not a tight and contracted focus; rather, it's open and allowing. This allows the present moment to present itself as it will, without resisting what is.

The mind dwelling on worst-case scenarios in Scorpio eventually lets go and the cork rises to the top, i.e., the mind relaxes and floats to the highest potential in any given moment. There are two important things that happen in that moment of release: 1) you let go of struggle with what is, and 2) you allow the best outcome to arise from any given situation.

That is the journey from Scorpio to Sagittarius. We may attempt to control outcomes at the Scorpio stage, but ironically, by doing so, we are not allowing the best possible outcome. By releasing our grasp, we can become more at the Sagittarius stage.

Venus in Sagittarius Dec 5 - 29
Venus joins Mercury in Sagittarius as it moves through the gandanta section. While there may be an initial blip to proceedings, there's a more idealistic expression for both Mercury and Venus in Sagittarius. Yet there are complications, as well.

Mars looks on from Taurus, Venus' sign, and no longer exchanges, and therefore, no longer co-operates, with Venus. This may push a Mars agenda more forcefully. Yet Mars itself is not going anywhere new and frustrated at having to retreat. We can personally channel such a force for good, for something more hopeful and ideal.

Use the backwards energy of Mars, and of Jupiter's forward motion in Pisces, to move forward, and upward, towards something more optimistic, while reworking your route there, finding strength within.

Venus in Sagittarius reflects a need for a higher perspective as you do so. It channels a higher love, "Down in the heart [and] hidden in the stars above".

Mars transits Cancer Division of Taurus Dec 5 - 13
Mars continues to retrograde through Taurus, pulling back from all the recent forceful, forward momentum. It's time to reassess your actions, and to reconnect with things from your past that gave you a feeling of strength and courage. Getting rid of what doesn't work any more is part of the deal.

Yet December is a bit tricky in that respect, as Mars moves through the Cancer 9th division of Taurus. This reflects an underlying weakness that must be felt. When Mars is weak, on any level, and then is forced to backtrack, it's likely to express itself as a strong reaction. You may lash out in frustration. Or, you may beat yourself up about something.

Yet you may not be aware of the build up of tension. This is where accidents can occur. Accidents are a way of letting you know you have something to pay attention to, to slow down and reassess. If you are unaware of an underlying tension, you're less likely to manage it. The more aware you are, the less likely you fall into its trap. Yet there's a balance that's needed. Being overly focused on the potential of having an accident can itself create an accident. As always, retrograde planets are all or nothing and require a skillful balancing act.

December is a month to manage Mars energy, as opposed to push through new agendas. It's a time to find outlets for frustration while you rework certain aspects of your life. Look to the house position of Taurus to see where you must manage it. If you don't know what that is, simply look at what's not moving forward in your life at this time, despite your best efforts. Include Aries and Scorpio in your deliberations.

Instead of reacting strongly, respond appropriately. That's the strength of Mars in Capricorn, its exaltation sign. Mars in Cancer wants it, so why not give it. Contain your energy through some activity that allows you to manage the excessive energy that has no apparent outlet.

There's always an outlet available. It just may not be obvious when Mars is retrograde. This is one reason we are seeing more earthquakes, as the earth responds to Mars's retrograde. Sometimes, we just need to step aside and let others have their explosions, without getting involved in their dramas. You probably have enough of your own to deal with.

Full Moon in Taurus (Rohiṇī) Dec 8
The Full Moon is conjunct Mars by exact degree. This Full Moon is full of passion, but it just as likely to lead to frustration because of Mars's retrograde. This should not be ignored because there is huge potential for positive change. However, this is only likely if you are willing to redo something, and are open to suggestions.

It may also help to be open to surprises. Uranus is at the same degree as Mars in its sign, Aries, as Mars and the Moon come together opposite the Sun in Mars' other sign, Scorpio. It's all about Mars for this Full Moon! Managing the outward frustration can be handled with some inner work on yourself.

If you have a focused practice or meditation that allows the energy to recirculate, then do lots of that. If not, find a way to work with any build up of passion that has no obvious outlet.

Allow your passions to grow, while finding a healthy outlet that lets you blow off some steam.

Saturn leaves Leo Division of Capricorn Dec 14
Saturn finally leaves the Leo 9th division of Capricorn by mid-month. Saturn moved into this division from the end of August. This has shown the underlying instability in the world. That's because Saturn in Capricorn is in an 'inconjunct' to Leo. They're not on the same page. They don't see each other.

Leo is not a particularly welcome place for Saturn. At least, Saturn is not at home here. It might be likened to a servant being allowed into the King's chambers, but only if they are there to serve. If they're there to cause a problem, they're out!

Saturn represents the everyday person; Leo, those that lead them. The added complication of having Saturn in Capricorn AND the Leo division is apparent in an underlying tension with leaders and governments around the world.

Now that Saturn moves on into Virgo, the last few weeks of its transit in Capricorn, and in a trine in Virgo, is more helpful and practical. Long term plans can be implemented by governments and institutions without as much tension, at least.

You can personally channel this more helpful energy to put in place a practical plan and discipline yourself.

Sun in Sagittarius Dec 15 - Jan 14
The Sun's strength in Sagittarius is its connection to something more meaningful and hopeful. This is Christmas time, of course. It's many times the only time some people see the inside of a place of worship.

Even if you don't attend a church during the Sun's transit in Sagittarius, it's a time to connect with something that gives your life meaning, and hope.

The Sun shines a light on this for you by the end of December and beginning of January. It does so every year. Look to the sign by house position to see what you can light up and reconnect with. Whatever it is, there's a need to find meaning and purpose in it.

Many of us reconnect with family members, as the Sun moves through a sign from which we can observe our galactic center. This is our roots in terms of families of origin.

If you're meeting with family members at this time, remind yourself of this so you can rise above any petty arguments or frustrations. Remember, Mars is looking on from its retrograde position in the sign of family, Taurus!

New Moon in Sagittarius (Mūla) Dec 23
The Moon joins the Sun at 7 degrees of sidereal Sagittarius just before Christmas. This is the 'root' star sign, from which we can observe the super massive black hole at the galactic centre. This represents our roots from a spiritual perspective.

A New Moon in Mūla is about reconnecting to our roots from all perspectives. For many, this means reconnecting with family members. For others, it's about reconnecting to a spiritual community or an internal sense of spiritual connection that does not require any outer connection. Actually, the outer bling and family tensions around the holidays can often detract from the true spiritual connection we all share.

Often, the things that we initially dread, are the things that connect us. Mūla is ruled by the goddess of death, and is one thing we can all say we have in common.

This New Moon is a time to reconnect with what is meaningful and purposeful in our lives, and to get rid of anything that is not. Death actually makes life more meaningful, giving us a sense of purpose while here on earth.

This New Moon may feel like a preening phase as we head into the Christmas period, a time to cut things out and clear a way forward. It's a time to connect to the truth of our existence, from a higher perspective. You don't need a church to be reminded of this, but sometimes it helps.

The following lunar month brings us into the New Year and to more possibilities, as we look to a New Year with new hope. It's at the New Moon that we can set our intentions, even if it's simply an intention to focus on what we want and clear ourselves of what we do not.

Mercury Retrograde Dec 29 - Jan 18
Mercury enters Capricorn Dec 27, but only briefly, as it will retrograde from Dec 29 and then move back into Sagittarius on Dec 30. If you're planning on travelling around the end of the year or into the New Year, then maybe think twice about it! If you must travel, do pack a lot of patience for a probable extended trip.

Together with Mars's retrograde in Taurus, we could see many disturbances around business and travel for the New Year festivities. The New Year does not start out smoothly because of these retrogrades. Mars and Mercury continue to retrograde until the second half of January, so the beginning of the New Year is a false start in many ways. Things don't get going until the end of the month.

By the end of December, things are not going anywhere any time soon. It's probably a great time to reflect on your hopes and dreams for the future, and how you're going to go about reaching these. But the details are likely very sketchy at this stage.

As Mercury stations close to Venus and Pluto, there are probably more obvious financial and relational concerns to address, so there's no avoiding the issues. They all transit the lunar mansion, Uttarāṣāḍhā, a star sign that is all about austerity.

As the year ends, Mercury returns to Sagittarius, to reconsider what the ideal situation is. If some things haven't worked out as planned, then what is now possible? Keep an open mind about eventual outcomes.

Thankfully, Jupiter's strength in Pisces means we can at least connect with something more meaningful, even if the details are not clear. If you don't know how to go about what you know what you must do, you can still at least connect with why you are doing it in the first place, at least until the details make themselves clear by late January.

Venus enters Capricorn Dec 29
As Venus enters Capricorn, it meets with Mercury which is backtracking into Sagittarius. As they swap places and come into a 'planetary war' yet again, this time on Dec 29, it will be important to be patient and keep a level head in the lead up to New Year's Eve.

To add further complexity, Pluto is waiting for Venus in Capricorn. This is probably a rude awakening into the New Year, but it may just as easily hide certain things. We may not wish to face the truth of what is happening in the cold light of day, but if we can, we can unearth all that lay hidden for some time.

Venus met with Pluto here for the beginning of 2022. As it returns us to these themes, if it doesn't seem fair, it's probably because you are not aware of the full picture, including the hidden Plutonic themes that are likely too disturbing to admit.

Venus in this section of the zodiac plays a big part in the Ukraine war. Will we see something revealed at this time? Perhaps. But more so, we are likely to have something revealed in our personal lives that we may not wish to. It may be just our bank balance we wish to avoid looking at after the spending of Christmas! Or it may be a fact about a relationship we haven't been able to address thus far.

While Venus in Capricorn, conjunct Pluto, and as Mercury and Mars continue to retrograde, it is not necessarily a time to make up your mind about any of these things. It is, however, a great time to inquire.

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Wishing you all the very best for the month ahead.

Om Tat Sat

1/11/2022

November 2022 Forecast

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All planets in Libra conjunct Ketu and oppose Rahu and Uranus in November. There are likely losses and advancements in November we hadn't planned for. Venus conjoins Ketu on Nov 2, followed by the Sun on Nov 5. Venus opposes Uranus on the same day. Mercury is conjunct Ketu on Nov 6. Sun and Mercury oppose Uranus on Nov 9. Add a total lunar eclipse on Nov 8, and we need to be ready for anything.

Saturn aspects planets in Libra, restricting the flow, showing a lot of pressure in an already pressurized environment. Libra is all about balance, but may require more extreme adjustments to acheive it when it's lost. Libra represents social life, social issues, the economy and fair trade. These transits indicate challenges in these areas. War (Rahu in Aries) and peace (Ketu in Libra) tips in favour of the former.

Venus is the first to leave Libra as it enters Scorpio on Nov 11, leaving Saturn’s cold stare behind. Then, it forms an intense and passionate relationship with Mars, as Mars re-enters the opposite sign, Taurus, on Nov 13. As the ‘gender planets’ come head-to-head into the beginning of December, we are likely to see more passion, for good or ill. This triggers the nodal axis in more complex ways, with yet more complex issues to deal with in relation to wars and diplomacy.

Mercury joins Venus in Scorpio on Nov 13, and an opposition to Mars. Passions increase throughout the remainder of November, with the Sun joining them in Scorpio on Nov 16. Mars is going rogue in the opposite Taurus (out of bounds), as the Sun delves into the hidden places in Scorpio. There are many implications here for wars, and in our personal lives. We must personally bury deep and find the strength within.

Jupiter is slowing down silently in the background while all the drama unfolds, stationing direct on Nov 23. This will likely move policies forward, albeit it very slowly, along with things we've been pondering since July.

Join me on Sunday Oct 30 for a LIVE Q&A after the following presentation:

Serial Killer Astrology: When Planets Bring Death
A study of the birth charts of some infamous serial killers, including an examination of marana karaka sthana, a concept explored in Jataka Parijata, where particular house positions challenge certain planets. In these more extreme cases, they literally brought about death, a direct translation of the word marana. We will explore other indications in serial killers' charts, including a surprising conjunction between two planets that can shed more light on this dark subject.

Here is your link for the zoom meeting:
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/83611492036
Meeting ID: 836 1149 2036
Passcode: 709407

November transits

Mercury in Libra Oct 26 - Nov 13
Mercury moves from its sign of exaltation in Virgo and into a friendly environment in Libra. There are, however, complications in this usually friendly place; that is, the eclipses and Ketu, the south node.

Ketu is seen as an enemy to Mercury. Ketu is headless. Mercury represents the intellect. Hmm. You can see how these two have a hard time getting along. In Libra, we're already having a lot going on. Mercury adds more commentary. Venus has disappeared behind the Sun, a Sun in its fall, conjunct Ketu, the significator of losses. Mercury's inclusion into this mix of energies adds more voices to an already out of control situation.

We may wish to check out at this point, or lose our minds if we're too focused on the ins and outs. It's probably a better time to get out of our heads for a while, to shut off all the information overload. But it could also see some losing their minds and lashing out.

Mercury conjoins Ketu by exact degree by Nov 6, leading up the the total lunar eclipse in Aries, with Rahu and Uranus shaking things up. This period is likely extremely mentally stimulating, for good or ill.

Full Moon in Aries (Bharaṇī) - Total Lunar Eclipse Nov 8
Okay, there's no way to cut this that is not intense. Full Moons are intense. Full Moons in Aries, more so. Full Moons, totally eclipsed, by Rahu, even more so.

Yet that could be intensely good for you, depending on the specifics of your birth blueprint. If it's good, it great. If not, then, not so much.

But I don't want to blow things out of proportion. Things will already seem that way. It's likely not as big as you imagine. Rahu exaggerates and distorts. Exaggerating anything is a distortion, of course. If you can remember that no matter what is apparently happening, it may help.

But if it's good, then the advice may be not to overdo it. Full Moons are enjoyable, usually. Total lunar eclipses have an edge about them. I remember once being at a concert during a total lunar eclipse and it was very fun indeed. The thing is, we can often miss the opportunity to tune within for the more important revelations.

Don't get me wrong, having fun is important. But you can do that anytime. It's not every day we have a total lunar eclipse!

If you have any planets around the 21 degree mark of sidereal Aries, or opposite in Libra, then this is more relevant for you. If not, you can still look at the area of your life impacted.

In a mundane sense, a total lunar eclipse in the sign of war can bring many more complexities and escalations. Add to that, Mars has just stationed retrograde, behaving like Rahu, and we're likely to see many extremes around this time.

Uranus is also conjunct the eclipsed Moon and adds further volatility. We could see all kinds of life and death situations, as this is happening in Bharaṇī, the lunar mansion ruled by the 'god of death' Yama. Yet Yama is also known as the 'god of dharma' of righteousness, of judgement. We're likely to see some issue come to a head around justice at this time.

The most obvious expression is what is happening in the U.S., as the polls open for the mid-terms. This is going to shake things up in a big way, I imagine. Yet it's not going to play out as anyone imagines. The themes of life and death in relation to the recent Roe vs Wade ruling is just one expression of the lunar mansion involved. I'm sure there will be many more life and death situations as well, or at least situations that feel that way. Remember, it's a lunar eclipse, so more about how we feel about something.

We must be aware of blowing things out of proportion. While this may show more extremes on the world stage, it doesn't necessarily mean a life or death situation in your life.

Try not to lose perspective. Keep an open mind. And to do that, you must relax into knowingness. You cannot open a mind that is not at peace. A contracted mind, lost in fear and gloomy imaginings is not easy to navigate. Still yourself in some activity, or non-activity, whatever suits your nature.

As Jupiter is not looking at this eclipse, we must find our own way, in a way. But we can look to Jupiter in Pisces and the area of our lives we experience this sign. This will help bring more clarity.

Be still and know.

For timings for your locale, visit https://www.timeanddate.com/eclipse/lunar/2022-november-8

Venus in Scorpio Nov 11 - Dec 5
Venus conjoins Ketu in Libra on Nov 2 and then opposes Uranus in Aries on Nov 5, as the Sun opposes Uranus. Mercury is close by, too. It will conjoin Ketu on Nov 6 and then oppose Uranus on Nov 9.

This means the first week of November is volatile. It could show many disturbances and losses, and many more new starts and surprises.

Venus in Scorpio is actually a better situation for Venus than Libra this time around. You see, Libra is where the eclipse is, and Ketu, the significator of losses remains. Although Scorpio is the realm of Ketu, Venus's visit here is like staying at an enemies house while they are away. And Mars, Scorpio's other ruler, is about to re-enter Venus's home of Taurus.

This means Venus and Mars exchange homes from Nov 13. This indicates a more cooperative situation overall, despite the challenges.

Venus in Scorpio may feel more like Venus in Taurus for the remainder of the month. But it is still Venus in Scorpio, of course. Venus related themes and significations, including relations and the economy, are likely to require a lot of courage on the part of those making important decisions. Mars brings the courage, at least.

Venus in Scorpio is about loving the dark parts of our being. It brings out the shadow side of love, including jealousy and possessiveness. When we devote ourselves to someone, we must acknowledge this potential. And this is indeed what Venus in Scorpio can feel like. Bitterness is possible whenever Mars gets involved with Venus.

We must be on guard for the less advantageous expressions of these planets swapping signs. Some signs will fair better than others, although we can all make the most of the exchange of energies and compromise where possible.

Mercury in Scorpio Nov 13 - Dec 3
Mercury enters Mars' sign, as Mars leaves Mercury's. This is both good and bad news. Good, in that Mars and Mercury exchanging signs would have been an issue; and bad because Mars and Mercury are now opposing each other.

Mars exchanges with Venus in Scorpio, so it's like putting Mars together with Mercury in Scorpio and Venus in Taurus. This is also good and bad news. Mars and Mercury together is never an easy transit, especially in Scorpio. Mercury can get lost in gloomy expectations. Add in Venus, and despite the exchange and negotiation that is possible, the economic forecasts are likely to suffer as a result.

Mercury in Scorpio is a time to communicate our worst fears, and to realize that our worst fears are actually not the worst thing that could happen at all. The biggest fear we have is of dying. Yet dying is the best thing from a spiritual perspective.

Practically, Mercury in Scorpio is about getting to the bottom of something and figuring out where we were mistaken previously. Mercury in Scorpio is like a detective who will not quit until the case is solved.

Mars re-enters Taurus Nov 13
A planet re-entering a sign it has already left is not necessarily seen as a positive transit. This is especially the case with 'cruel' planets, including Mars. But everything is good for something. There is something to deal with that we may not have. Mars will push the issue back into our awareness so we can do the necessary. It may challenge us, but that is exactly how we develop courage and strength.

Mars externalizes whatever it touches. It sometimes pushes things into our awareness quite abruptly. When retrograde, we may get a strong sense of something, yet we cannot manage it as easily. It's harder to negotiate with the planet of action while backtracking in a sign of compromise.

Yet compromise is exactly what we must do. With Venus in Scorpio at this time, we have a lot of give and take that is possible, a lot of compromise. And while each sign and individual experiences this in their own unique away, the general indications by reading it from Aries, the natural 1st sign, is that the give and take is in relation to the economy and resources.

Taurus and Scorpio are the natural 2nd and 8th signs of the zodiac, representing money and resources, ours and others. Mars moving backwards through the sign over the next few months can show many setbacks and the need to compromise on certain things.

We may get frustrated at times, whether with our financial situation or with others we are trying our best to get along with, but all of these challenges builds resilience. Something to remember if someone or something challenges you over the coming months.

Ask yourself if sticking to your guns is actually helping the situation, and indeed, why you feel the urge to do so in the first place. What is worth protecting? Some things are worth protecting, while others are just a reflection of your need to fight about something regardless of what it is.

Sun in Scorpio Nov 16 - Dec 14
Sun joins Mercury and Venus in Mars' and Ketu's sign by mid-month. The Sun is out of its sign of debilitation, although its strength is not necessarily an obvious one in Scorpio. And because the Sun has recently been eclipsed by Ketu, the indicator of loss, we're likely licking our wounds and a little less sure of ourselves at this point.

Thankfully, the Sun is moving away from Saturn's restrictive gaze and the complications of the eclipses. It's even harder to feel confident when changes that seem more outside our control are taking place.

After all the drama and change, it's time to go within, to find strength again. As the Moon continues to wane into Scorpio in the coming days, we are asked to recharge. And just like our devices are charged, we must leave them aside for a while.

There is more strength available from Mars, which is aspecting from Taurus. This further emphasizes the recharge that is possible, and necessary. Leave it for now, recharge it, whatever it is, and come back with more energy and gusto a little later.

New Moon in Scorpio (Anurādhā) - Nov 23
We might as well finish an intense month off with another intense lunation; a New Moon in Scorpio. This is a major recharge point. The New Moon is best for being as quiet as possible. A New Moon in its sign of debilitation requires even more down time, as we reset our intentions and plant new seeds in the dark soil of Scorpio.

The dark soil is the crap we haven't fully digested (pardon my French!), which can now be used as fertilizer for something new. If something hasn't worked out as you would have wished, use that upset, that failure, that disappointment, to plant a new wish.

You don't even have to say anything. Just feel the disappointment, the bitterness, whatever negative feeling you are having with the Moon in Scorpio, and use it as rocket fuel to fire up a new direction in life.

The New Moon occurs in an auspicious lunar mansion despite the challenges for the mind; that is, Anurādha, what I call 'the devoted one'. This is a good time to see what or who we devote our time and energy to. A New Moon here is asking us to look closely at our intentions moving forward. Ask yourself: How do I want to direct my attention? Are my intentions wholesome?

Wholesome for me means that I am not neglecting my negative thoughts; rather, I'm using any negativity to fuel more positive activities.

As the Moon wanes into Scorpio and resets our focus, use the time to invite it all in, so you can begin again without any undirected, unconscious motivations sabotaging your new start.

Jupiter stations Direct Nov 23
Jupiter appears to stop moving in sidereal Pisces by the end of the month, on the New Moon day. It seems to hold in place at 4 degrees, within a few degrees of Neptune, which is itself about to station direct at the very end of Aquarius.

Things are about to start moving forward in relation to the things we find meaningful. As this is also a New Moon in Scorpio, in trine to Jupiter in Pisces, it's a great time to think about what gives our life purpose, what we have reconnected with over the past few months, so we can move forward with things that bring hope and optimism.

Despite the gloomy predictions and dire circumstances around the world, Jupiter is the hope that gets us out of bed in the morning, without which we would simply join the mass of doom and gloom. When we can access Jupiter, either because of a cycle or a transit, we can find hope in even the darkest times.

There is no denying these are dark times in many ways. But there is no denying the hope that one day things will improve. And indeed they will. And although Jupiter continues to receive a strong aspect from Saturn in Capricorn and Aquarius, until Jupiter moves into Taurus by 2024, we can channel this into an 'attentive optimism'.

It's Jupiter that brings order to what seems like chaos. Jupiter in Pisces is an understanding of a more mystical order, even when all around seems to be falling apart. Nothing is actually going wrong from that perspective. The divisions, the wars, the - whatever, are all happening perfectly in the grand scheme of things.

The many apparent contradictions are also happening as they should be. Pisces is a sign that gives us that understanding, through the experience of contradiction. I feel this way about it, but also there's this. Or, I know this to be true, but also this. Jupiter in Pisces knows it all.

Now that Jupiter is stationing direct in the sign for one last time, heralding its move into Aries the beginning of the zodiac by next April, we can now gather all we have learned for the new journey we are about to take.

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I wish you the best for the month ahead.

Om Tat Sat

1/10/2022

October 2022 Forecast

Read Now

Mercury stations direct on Oct 2. There's a heightened anticipation as Mercury stops turning backwards and begins to move forward in the coming days. Mercury is particularly strong at this time, helping the mood and mitigating Venus’ debilitation. We may get bogged down in the details, but at least we are working things out in a friendly manner.

Mars enters Gemini on Oct 15, pushing its agenda and impatience on proceedings in Virgo. Yet Mars is not going anywhere new anytime soon. It will station at the second degree of the sign by Oct 30, leaving us scratching our heads as to how to be more proactive at this stage.

The Sun enters Libra on Oct 17 and drops the energy and mood again. This leads to the New Moon on Oct 25, celebrated in India as Diwali, the 'darkest night' of the year, with the Sun in debilitation during the dark phase of the Moon. It's at our darkest times that we find our true source of light, within.

Pluto stations direct on Oct 8, while Saturn does so on Oct 23. At least our long term plans can slowly move forward, along with our short term plans. The issue now is the upcoming Mars retrograde, which may feel frustrating when trying to implement these. Saturn's station in October may feel as if our objectives are grinding to a halt, despite the more immediate gratification of getting certain things in order thanks to Mercury.

Venus enters Libra on Oct 18 and out of debilitation. Yet Venus is also in complete combustion at this time, exact on Oct 22. Although this has many positive significations, Saturn's restraining order, and the complications of the eclipse, create too many complexities to deal with at once. This does not bode well for Venus-related issues, including the economy and diplomacy.

The New Moon in Libra on Oct 25 is a partial solar eclipse at 7 degrees, opening up a two-week 'eclipse window' and a period of much change and uncertainty. The eclipsed and debilitated Sun may show a prominent leader fall from power in a spectacular way. As we adjust, we may feel a lack of confidence, as we lose our rhythm for a time.

If we can connect to each other with more poise and consideration, signified by the strengths of Saturn and Venus, we can certainly mitigate any sense of lack, bolstering our sense of self and confidence through discipline, hard work and compromise.

Saturn square Uranus Sep/Oct
This is the last time I will be writing about this configuration - for another 20 years, anyway! This has been one of the key signatures of the shakeup of our world in the last couple of years. This last alignment is tense, and more complex, as Uranus is joined by Rahu this time.

Uranus and Rahu in Aries is fueling, and blocking, a need for personal freedom of expression and movement. Saturn and Pluto in Capricorn has pulled us back time and again to the past, to dismantle systems that no longer work, while starting something new.

And while we need to find space for both these expressions - starting something entirely new, while reworking the old - these can be at logger heads many times. Also, our need for personal freedom (Aries) is in direct contrast, and possible conflict, with the needs of the many (Saturn).

The recent passing of the Queen of England is a good example of the breaking down of the old, with new voices of revolt getting louder and louder. This will continue through the end of this year, shaking things up in ways we hadn't even imagined.

In your own life, look to the signs involved to get an idea of where you are dealing with this juxtaposition. Here's a video I made about it that might help.

Venus opposes Jupiter on Oct 1
Venus continues to transit Virgo until Oct 18, coming to its exact degree of debilitation by Oct 16. It all starts out well, with Venus opposing Jupiter in Pisces, but what begins as an overcompensation for a sense of lack can easily lead to a bigger downturn if we overdo it.

This has obvious pitfalls in terms of the world economy and diplomatic efforts around the world and war-torn regions. When Venus hides behind the Sun in combustion, and transits its sign of debilitation, there is a distinct lack of accord and decorum that is possible. And while Mercury is certainly helping out more once it stations direct, talking it through cannot solve the problem of how we feel.

The best use of this time is to find the strength of Venus within, to find the appreciation of the simple things in life, while the more profound aspects can be brought down to earth in our everyday routines. If we need big, bold statements and experiences to live happily, we must eventually experience loss.

Showing up in our lives in simple, yet profound, ways can mitigate much of the potential downfalls inherent in Venus' transit at this time. Look to what you feel grateful for, what you already have, instead of complaining about what you do not. And if you have something to get off your chest, do so with the intent of helping the situation.

Mercury stations Direct Oct 2
Mercury's station always feel like a heightened sense of anticipation. And while practical concerns may feel backed up as it stations, there's at least a sense of things about to move forward. We must do so slowly, of course. If you feel you've been backed up and unable to move forward with some plans, you may indeed want to go at it.

Mercury will now slowly move towards its exact degree of exaltation in the middle of Virgo, exact on Oct 17, the same time Venus is at its exact degree of debilitation. This is most certainly good news. Mercury is now clear in communications and moving forward with plans, helping out the mood enormously. Yet we cannot deny that Venus pulls down Mercury's efficacy. If you're not feeling good, you're likely not communicating well.

Mercury in Virgo is in its own sign, its sign of exaltation and what is known as 'root strength' in Vedic astrology. So, basically it's the best place to put Mercury. Our minds are sharp, clear and focused. We can get so much work done. We're more productive and efficient, ticking off many boxes and things on our lists. The thing is, unless we are clear about why we are doing what we are doing, the purpose of it, the likelihood of feeling less excited and happy about it is possible.

If we can tune into why we do what we do, we will put up with any mood fluctuations to just get on with it. Use this time of Mercury strength to get very organized and productive, before it moves into Libra by Oct 26, when it's time to find more balance in your social life together with all the work.

Pluto stations Direct Oct 8
Pluto is silently, but consistently, grinding away at what has been established in our lives; the things that make us feel safe and secure. Sometimes, those things are unhealthy habits we have formed over many years (Capricorn). Sometimes, these things are simply outdated and inappropriate for the current time.

Pluto is dismantling all of that but will take its time doing so. It will remain in Capricorn until 2040. That's 20 years of tearing down systems that are 'old hat'. This is likely the downfall of many things we never thought would end, either in the world around us, e.g. the British monarchy and banking systems, or in our personal lives, e.g., work practices.

Pluto's slow turnaround to direct motion slowly turns the screw, opening up new possibilities, very, very slowly. The kinds of things Pluto changes can never be the same again, precisely because of the slow grinding away at it. It slowly disintegrates it from the inside out, until one day, the whole thing collapses, replaced by something and someone who takes advantage of the situation.

This is why Pluto is the 'lord of the underworld' and why I believe this current era, i.e., the next two decades, is going to see some not so nice things will step in to fill the void. But it will occur gradually, silently, in the background. Mario Reading's translation of Nostradamus' prophecies point to the birth of the 'third antichrist' in 2035, a book that has shot to the top of the Sunday Times list because of its translation of a quatrain that predicted Queen Elizabeth II would die this year. And while I wouldn't use that kind of language he uses, I would say it's likely many things alter the course of history in the next two decades; ways we cannot even imagine at this time.

By the way, in 2035, Saturn opposes Pluto. The last time we saw that was during the 9/11 attacks. 2035 promises even bigger downfalls of systems and ways of being due to the line up in Cancer/Capricorn.

Every time Pluto loosens the screw, system continue to loosen their grip, shaking the very foundation that has kept us feeling safe - and stuck - for far too long.

Full Moon in Pisces (Revatī) Oct 9
With the Sun in Virgo, the Moon opposes it in Pisces, where we are asked to let the details go for a while, to swim in the sea of possibility. This Full Moon is joined Jupiter and opposed by Venus and Mercury. All the 'benefics' are involved in this Full Moon, so it will likely feel quite good indeed.

The only downside, or upside, depending on how you look at it, is Saturn's aspect. The downside is not fully letting go because of fear, mistrusting the process. The upside is not overindulging any or all whims that spends all our energy, and money.

The Full Moon in Pisces balances our need to get things just so, with the ability to let it go. But surrender should not be confused with giving up. Actually, surrender is an important part of anything we do. By tuning in (or out) for a while, we can be more efficient and productive when we get back to it.

Use this Full Moon to enjoy floating in the sea of potential and possibility, opening your mind to ways of doing things you may never have imagined before.

The Moon is full in Revatī, meaning 'nourishment'; a lunar mansion that represents both material and spiritual nourishment. It is ruled by the guardian of the living and the dead, shepherding his flock from this life to the next. It represents self-realization and provides nourishment for the soul to self-realize, while its symbol is a fish, reflecting a faithful nature and spiritual depth.

Spiritual depth is a theme of the month. But we can either drown in the darkness or be buoyed up by all the is possible, from the depths of being.

Mars in Gemini Oct 15 - Nov 13
Mars peeks into Gemini briefly, before it stations on Oct 30, returning to Taurus by mid-November. Its slow down and turn around at the juncture of these two signs, the signs of resources and communications, is likely to bring a halt to things that keep our lives running smoothly.

Mars in Gemini is not going anywhere anytime soon. Its station in a sign that is all about travel and communications could lead to technical hiccups and a backlog to the mindful of if you are travelling or doing business. I'm assuming we all communicate, so we all have to be mindful of how we do so.

Mars in Gemini is a little irksome, to say the least. When stationing, it adds to the potential of lashing out in frustration. Mars combined with Mercury, although Mercury is strong in Virgo, may lead to saying things you later regret or have to retract. Mars likes to just do it, while Mercury likes to think about it. While they are not prone to working together, we can find space for both by being more proactive and deliberate in what we say and do.

This is a brief experience of Mars in Gemini, for wherever this signs falls in your chart. But we will be back here again, with hopefully a better delivery method, by March of next year, as Mars clears the section of the zodiac it backtracked over.

It will move into new territory in Gemini by mid-March, at which time we can move about more freely, and express ourselves more easily.

Libra's symbol is the setting Sun

Sun in Libra Oct 17 - Nov 16
The Sun moves into its sign of debilitation in Libra and we are asked to put aside our ego in favour of others. As long as we are conscious of not playing victim to bolster our sense of self, we can help others, and in turn, help ourselves.

The Sun enters Libra every year, of course. There's nothing new here. What is new, however, is the Sun is eclipsed and has an aspect from Saturn at this time. This is challenging to our sense of self and confidence, our ability to trust the process. Yet there are always upsides to any transit. This includes the ability to be more objective and humble. Although this often requires being humiliated. We may feel we are knocked off our perch, especially if we have been unrealistic.

If our perch is a spiritual one, an observation of the Self that is unperturbed by any highs or lows, we can certainly channel the Sun's weakness and eclipse in its best form.

There are likely many big changes happening in our world at this stage. World leaders may be challenged to change or feel the pressure to do so. We must be willing to change, but the change comes from within. Any attempt to alter the way we feel by propping ourselves up with external things is likely met with a further fall.

Thankfully, Venus enters Libra soon after the Sun and props us up. This may mean feeling better about ourselves because of our relationships. Or just feeling good about how we relate in general. Dressing up at the change of season can bring a new sense of self, even if only superficial. Yet the "clothes make the man" and we can certainly fake it for a while.

When we tune into the strength within, connecting to our Higher Self, a Self that has no need to prop itself up or knock itself down, we continue to move through even the darkest times of uncertainty with a quiet, and unshakable, confidence.

Venus in Libra Oct 18 - Nov 11
Venus and the Sun are at the same degree on Oct 22. This is known as 'Cazimi' and is actually seen as a position of strength for Venus, as if it were fueled by the light of the Sun. The problem is it's brief. It only occurs for one day. Overall, the Sun's weakness and Venus' combustion leads to a sense of lack.

The economy is one obvious expression of this downfall, as is the breakdown of negotiations and diplomacy in parts of the world that need it most. Throw in an eclipse and the potential for things to change in more challenging ways is emphasized.

Despite all that, Venus is at home in Libra and points to at least the potential for more diplomacy. Libra is all about finding compromise, even when there seems to be no way around an issue. When we try to understand others' perspectives, we are more able to see a way out of such a conundrum.

It's begins to get dark in October. That's literally the case for most on the planet. There's no avoiding it. But how we each react to it and compensate or overcompensate for it, matters.

By the end of the month, Oct 29 - 31, the Moon enters its sign of debilitation, Scorpio, leaving both our luminaries in debilitation (Sun exact debilitation on Oct 27), and Venus combust, lost in the rays of a weak Sun. This is opposite the spring period, when both luminaries were exalted and Venus was in Taurus. Now we have the opposite occuring as we head into winter and it could get very dark indeed. The lights are going out for a time, whether literally or figuratively.

When someone feels the darkness in a negative way, they are more likely to react adversely to it. We can bolster others if we have already taken care of ourselves. The colour of the sign Libra is black, as it represents the darkness of being lost in worldly purists and relationships. Yet this darkness is necessary in order to find our balance; between worldly and spiritual things, between us and others etc.

Whether this plays out in more obvious ways around the world, or in our personal lives, as within, so without. Make sure you are going within at this dark time, so you are not left without.

Ketu in Svātī Oct 18 - Jun 26, 2023
Ketu moves lunar mansions within sidereal Libra in October, moving from Viśākhā to Svātī, from an association with Jupiter to more of a connection to Rahu. This can be complicated. Anytime the nodes transit lunar mansions associated with them, they stir things up.

By Feb 21 next year, Rahu will move into Asvini, which is associated with Ketu. This means, Rahu is in Ketu's lunar mansion, and Ketu is in Rahu's next year. This can twist things in many interesting, and confusing, ways.

The potential for more volatility is possible, as is the threat of more warfare, viruses, political and economic instability, and seismic activity. The last time they were in these lunar mansions was during the latter half of 2004 and beginning of 2005. This is when the 'Orange Movement' occurred in Ukraine, when thousands of protesters demonstrated on a daily basis. This was also the war in Iraq. There was the Indian ocean earthquake and tsunamis that killed an over 200,000 people in 14 countries, making it one of the deadliest natural disasters in recorded history.

Look to your own chart, and what was happening in 2004/2005. This will give you clues as to what it may mean for you now. If you had some big changes back then, you're likely to experience more now, and in the next year.

Another thing of note that happened during their last transit here was North Korea declaring it had nuclear weapon capabilities, in response to a threat it saw from the U.S. The themes of the nodes, that of threat and uncertainty, was apparent in both real and perceived ways at that time. Whether it's true, the nodes show a sort of knee-jerk reaction, especially while Rahu transits Aries and Ketu transits Libra.

The stock market crash of 1929 also saw the nodes where they are now. Okay, you get the point, the nodes in these signs can wreak havoc.

Yet the complexity of such a transit, with the nodes in each other's lunar mansions, can be a more balanced approach to either, as the universe counterbalances extreme imbalances with more extreme counterbalances. So, Rahu can be brought to bear, i.e., we can calm our ambitions, while Ketu can be tempered by Rahu's desire for something better, a new way of doing things.

Look to the signs, Aries and Libra in your own chart, to see where you are likely going to be grappling with the apparent contradictions these can bring up. You may end up chasing your tail in the process of trying to work it out, but may also see the never-ending loop of past, present and future rolled into one pure potential in any given moment.

Saturn stations Direct Oct 23
When Saturn stations, appearing not to move for most of the month, we too feel this station, as if our long term plans are not going anywhere anytime soon. Saturn's station can feel like a vice grip, where we cannot avoid the issues any longer. And because this is Saturn's last time to station in Capricorn, it's likely we are jaded with an issue we must give in and do the necessary.

It's also just as likely that we attempt to avoid it at all costs, leaving us with no choice in the end. The area of life we experience Capricorn is changing whether we like it or not. The good news is we can now slowly move forward with our long term plans at this time.

We've come a long way since the beginning of 2020, when Saturn first moved into Capricorn. This last turnaround is one last dig at it, one last time to get it right. Do the right thing. Bury what you need to bury, whatever has called for your attention in the last two years. That may also include not doing something you have continued to do, despite the warnings.

Either way, we can continue to build a new way, as we continue the excavation with Pluto. As the screws loosen on one thing, we can tighten and reaffirm our commitment to another.

New Moon in Libra (Svātī) Oct 25 - Partial Solar Eclipse & Diwali
This New Moon is the 'darkest night' of the year. The Sun is debilitated during the dark phase of the Moon. The Sun itself is also darkened, eclipsed by the Moon, by a dark mind. Both our lights are in a weakened position, with the Moon entering its sign of debilitation in the days following this New Moon.

The Sun is partially eclipsed by the dark Moon and the south node, Ketu, the significator of loss. Throw in a strong aspect from a stationary Saturn, and you have the potential for more extremes at the juncture.

There may be a leader that is challenged in an obvious way, or in private. We too, may feel challenged, in public or private. There is likely a major downfall of some extreme magnitude. Yet we can let it sink for a time, without struggling, we can learn to float.

More importantly, this New Moon is an important reset in the dark. It may feel like we are stumbling around looking for the light switch, but without doubts, without fears, we would never look within to find our true source of light. That light is not found in the world of things, or in others. This is one reason the Sun is debilitated in Libra. Yet it is a turning point, a decision that is not really a decision, in a way. It's a journey we must take.

Spirituality is not some fluffy pursuit to bolster an already inflated ego, it's a complete break down of who we thought we were, when things were going well. The more things break down in our world, and this eclipse suggests more is to be broken, the more we look to spirit, to Ketu, for guidance.

Yet the guidance is not a loud proclamation or obvious call to action. It is a subtle shift in perspective, from the material to the spiritual. That is the journey of Libra, the darkest sign of zodiac from a spiritual perspective. But it is this that turns us to where we need to be.

The New Moon and eclipse takes place in Svātī lunar mansion, a time to find your own way, your unique voice. Svātī means ‘independent one' and shows a need to carve our own path in life. One of Svātī's symbols is a young sprout blowing in the wind, showing a need to adapt to new circumstances, to go against the grain. It is ruled by the god of the breath and the life-force. Another of its symbols is a sword, representing the need to break away from the herd.

The eclipse takes place at 7 degrees of sidereal Libra. If you have any planets or the Sun or Moon here, any significant degree, this is where you will feel the need to change. But don't be scared of it, it's for your betterment. And while you may not consciously choose how this pans out, a part of you is already on board.

Look back to 2004/2005 for hints at the kinds of ways you'll be evolving this time around again. As Venus is tightly conjunct the eclipsed Sun, it's likely relationships and/or finances, things you value and feelings of self-worth, that are likely. Yet you will experience these in relation to the signs being impacted. Look out for my sign-based forecasts for October on the Patreon page for more on this.

This eclipse is a major turning point. It may not be obvious this is the case from the outset, but the seeds we plant now will sprout next year. Any doubts or fears are but the soil for what we plant. Think of the s*** you have to deal with as fertile ground for some new possibility in your life.

Click here to see timings for your locale:
https://www.timeanddate.com/eclipse/solar/2022-october-25

Mercury in Libra Oct 26 - Nov 13
Mercury moves from exaltation to a friendly environment in Libra, but it is met with the southern eclipse point and a strong aspect from Saturn. So, although there are more possibilities for negotiating the finer print, there are many challenges to navigate and negotiate.

Saturn's impact on Mercury gets us to focus our intent and its impact on others. Ketu, the south node, completely obliterates anything that is not up to scratch. There may be an even more critical eye cast on proceedings at this point, to the point where nothing is allowed to pass the test.

With so much emphasis on Libra at this time; with Mercury and Venus combust the Sun, as well as the south node distorting facts, there is likely an imbalance felt in the sign that is all about striving for balance. The only planet not directly engaged with Libra in any challenging way is Mars, which we can thank our lucky stars for. However, once Mercury moves into Scorpio by mid-November, Mars returns to Taurus in opposition to both Mercury and Venus. This does not bode well for peaceful negotiations at this point.

Mercury and Venus won't oppose Mars exactly until the end of November, but it's worth pointing out now. Be mindful of resentments that can build if you compromise too much while planets transit Libra.

Mars Retrograde Oct 30 - Jan 12, 2023
Mars' slow down and turn around is not a smooth transition, usually. I remember once being on a train as Mars was stationing retrograde. The train pulled into a station on the way to another destination. It then backed out of the station after picking up passengers. I looked around at how everyone who were facing forward initially, and were now facing backwards as the train went in the opposite direction, got up and changed seats, so they could face forward. So, you get it, we don't usually like feeling like we are being pulled back into something. We prefer to feel as if our lives are moving forward, and that our actions bring results, immediately.

Well, that's not likely during Mars' retrograde. Anything we do is likely met with setbacks and delays. It's not the best time to begin Mars-like activities for the first time, only because we are met with setbacks and it could create problems. If you have Mars retrograde in your chart, however, you are more used to it and probably more able to handle it. Still, it's not the best time to take on something new. It's a time to redo something, to go back over something that used to fill you with courage and conviction. It's time to find that thing again.

Unless we are willing to redo things, we are likely to run into problems. We may feel like holding it in as Mars slowly backtracks. It may be held back for us.

Both holding it in too much and letting it out have their pitfalls. Any planet, when retrograde, is a potential problem. When retrograde, planets behave like the nodes, which are always retrograde (mean node). The nodes, and retrograde planets, can be 'all or nothing' in their approach. So, for Mars, that means holding back what you know you should do or say, until one day you explode at an innocent who had no idea you felt that way.

Take it from someone who was born when Mars was retrograde, learn when to hold back and when to move. Circulate any excess energy that can wreak havoc without any obvious outlets. You see, Mars may be going backwards, but it is more powerful as it does so.

When we blow this potential up on the world stage it has many more pitfalls. It's likely the war situation gets worse in the coming months, as the armies are pulled back into situations unwillingly, in the depths of winter. This is likely to impact energy supply chains. Is the Russian call for reservists a foreshadowing of what's to come? Yes, likely. Mars is currently in its 'shadow phase', moving over territory it will return to later. The energy crisis and economy is another way this backtrack will be felt. It's frustrating when energy supplies are not consistent or predictable. You expect when you turn it on it will work. When it doesn't work, we must find ways of working around it.

Added to that, Mars transits 'out of bounds' from Oct 22 until May 4 next year. This means Mars is moving further out of range of the zodiacal belt, as if going rogue. What does Mars going rogue look like? Soldiers going AWOL, of course. We may do the same in some fashion. And that's a long time for Mars to be going rogue. Add Rahu's aspect and your guess is as good as mine when it comes to how extreme this could get.

We must look at our own expression of this, so we don't get caught in projecting this onto others. What's going on in Gemini, and Taurus (predominantly), for you? Whatever it is, you are likely dragged back into something. Go willingly, and purposefully, and work with the energy. Go with the flow, with all your might. Reconsider how you do anything, as you slowly renegotiate with the new and unexpected direction events begin to take.

Read an article I wrote about Mars retrograde here

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As always, I wish you the very best of what the month has to offer.

Om Tat Sat

1/9/2022

September 2022 forecast

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The month begins with Mercury in a strong position in Virgo, opposing Jupiter and Neptune in Pisces. This is good for planning, as long as you are more creative, and aware that your plans are likely to change. Mercury's retrograde from Sep 10 requires an open mind. It may be confusing, but the potential is for a highly creative period. Mercury opposes Jupiter on two occasions before and during its retrograde, on Sep 3 and Sep 18, before opposing it one last time on Oct 12 as it makes its way through the finer details at last.

The Sun opposes Neptune by mid-month, as Neptune returns to Aquarius on Sep 12. The Sun then enters Virgo. This adds to the stark contrast life is throwing up now; between the everyday details and the fantasy. The Sun then opposes Jupiter in Pisces on Sep 26. This is a more confident configuration, although it may add to an idealism that finds it hard to make it to dry land.

Speaking of dry, Venus moves into debilitation in Virgo from Sep 24. While Venus is less than happy focusing on problems, at least it's helped out by Mercury. This may be expressed as being able to talk about the things that bother. Yet Mercury is busy trying to figure things out while retrograde and the mind is likely overburdened. This can lead to miscommunications. If that were the case, Venus in Virgo could add to a critical spin and test relationships.

This is a downturn period of the year in many ways (it is called The Fall, after all!), but we can pick ourselves up by being more productive and organized, propped up by Mercury and Jupiter's strengths in Virgo and Pisces, as well as the Sun's strength in Leo and Saturn's strength in Capricorn. Whatever you are doing, make sure you are more adaptable and can see the wood AND the trees.

Full Moon in Aquarius (Pūrvā Bhādrapada) Sep 10
The Moon reaches the opposite degree of the Sun in Leo by Sep 10, in Aquarius and the lunar mansion that bridges both Aquarius and Pisces. This lunar mansion represents a journey to find truth, beyond science, statistics, and forms.

Pūrvā means 'former', bhādrapada means 'auspicious steps'. It is ruled by a fierce form of Śiva, likened to a lightning bolt, which is symbolic of its visionary nature. It is symbolized by a man with two faces, a sword, and the front legs of a funeral cot; all symbolizing a cutting away; of big themes of life and death; making distinctions between what is real and what is false.

The themes of two-faced can express itself in many ways. It can either show having two apparently contrasted thoughts or feelings on a subject, or having one thought and saying something completely opposite.

A Full Moon in this lunar mansion highlights the contrast between Leo and Aquarius, between our desires to shine and our need to become part of the group; between our own desires and the desires of the group, which may oppose our own. And yet, this lunar mansion is about surrendering our desires to the group, and realizing we get what we want, when everyone gets what they want.

Mercury Retrograde Sep 10 - Oct 2
Mercury opposes Jupiter on Sep 2, as it begins to slow down and comes to apparent halt in the middle of Virgo. This is an interesting mix of seeming contradictions. On the one hand, Mercury is so powerful in the centre of Virgo, its exact degree of debilitation. The degrees after this, from 15 to 20, is seen as its root strength, where it functions incredibly well, too. However, Mercury is also stationing retrograde and will backtrack before it gets there, moving back to the very first degree of the sign. This means whatever we have begun must be redone. The flipside to Mercury's strength is also possible; that is, an inability to effectively communicate and assimilate the details.

You can imagine Mercury retrograde in Virgo as if being in Pisces, where it is lost in the mix of the many things to consider. The mind can become overly burdened by details, that you may find yourself overwhelmed at times. Yet Mercury is not in Pisces, no matter how much it might seem that way. It's in Virgo, where it is so strong. So, there may be a sense of overwhelm, but you can also do the necessary and deal with the issues.

While Mercury retrogrades are period of review in a general sense, and not a time to plough ahead as you have been, this one offers distinct advantages - but only if you are willing to keep an open and creative mindset. This is because of Jupiter's opposition in Pisces. Jupiter's conjunction with Neptune in Pisces - also both retrograde - is asking us all to refuel what we find meaningful and purposeful, to go back to what fills us with hope.

Ask yourself: Why do I want this? What do I find meaningful? If you do that, you may still get bogged down in the technical hiccups or missteps, but you are more likely to put up with them, even laugh them off. When you know why you are doing something, you are more likely to stick it, knowing that there is something important in it - not just for you, but for everyone.

Whatever areas of life you experience Virgo and Pisces, keep it in perspective as you review and reassess. Try not to lose sight of the bigger picture. If you find yourself with more time on your hands when plans fall fail, use the time to think more creatively. And if you have something practical to rework in your life, use the time to go back over something. If you attempt to forge ahead with new plans, you are likely to find it hard going. Mercury retrogrades favour stepping back a bit.

Be especially mindful of its station on Sep 10, which just so happens to be a Full Moon. As the Moon then joins Jupiter and Neptune in Pisces for a couple of days after this, let go a little bit more; at least, for a while. Surrender how you think it should be, and you may be pleasantly surprised at how things turn out. And if you can do this throughout the Mercury retrograde in September and into October, you will not only be rewarded with more creative ideas and solutions to our problems, you will avoid a meltdown when things don't seem to go to plan.

There's a bigger plan and picture to keep an eye on right now.

Neptune re-enters Aquarius Sep 12
Furthering the theme of backtracking, Neptune leaves Pisces, returning to Aquarius for one last time. It will finish here by Feb 18 next year finally, after 15 years in the sign.

What has Neptune brought to Aquarius in the past 15 years? A whole lot of confusion, for one! Yet Neptune is still within the lunar mansion that bridges both Aquarius and Pisces; that is, Pūrvā Bhādrapada, the 'latter auspicious steps'. And while all that sounds nice, coming to a truth of who we really are, from a spiritual perspective, is anything but. This is one of the fierce lunar mansions, ruled by a fierce and destructive form of Shiva. It's about riding ourselves of falsehoods, which means being acutely aware of them as they are detoxed from our system. Neptune blurs the lines of what is true and what is false, of course.

The word 'confusion' is an interesting one. It means 'to fuse with'. The mind cannot handle this, of course, which is one reason Mercury is unable to be practical and efficient in Pisces. Neptune, on the other hand, is right at home in Pisces and is said to rule the sign in modern-day astrology. As Joseph Campbell said, “The psychotic drowns in the same waters in which the mystic swims with delight.” There are much delights awaiting us in the coming years! Make sure you are orientated towards mysticism or you may find yourself drowning in confusion in Pisces.

Neptune in Aquarius has brought a lot of awareness of disparate parts. So at least Neptune in Pisces begins to blend things together again. The past 15 years has brought us many delights in the form of humanitarian crisis, broadcast for all to see on social media platforms and channels such as YouTube. The many voices that would never have had a platform have given us many possible views, many of which are merely a distraction form the truth of who we really are. Neptune rules film, of course. Its transit in Aquarius has made filmmakers of us all.

Neptune's retrograde in Aquarius, until it stations here on Dec 3, is a time to recount some of these viewpoints. It's a time to take one last swipe at what is possible in Aquarius, for our individual lives, and for humanity. This means looking at Aquarius by house position in our own charts, to see what is possible. By next year, Saturn will enter Aquarius to make it clear what is doable and what has been merely a distraction, a fantasy. It may also be a time to make real our dreams, as long as we are aware of what is real, and what is false.

Sun in Virgo Sep 16 - Oct 16
The Sun enters the earthly realms of Virgo by mid-month, moving from its place of strength in its home sign, into a neutral territory. Day and Night are finding balance, leading to the Solstice, as extraversion and introversion find equilibrium, as the masculine and feminine, the assertive and the receptive, gain equal footing.

Sun in Virgo is a time of year to take stock. This may literally be the case if you work in a company that requires this during the change of season. Personally, it's a time to take stock of our lives, to weight things up. It's a time to weight and measure, and to share the harvest with others.

Look to the sign Virgo to see where you are focused, as Mercury has just begun to review this area of your life in a big way, with the Sun now shining a spotlight. By the time Mercury joins the Sun at the same degree in the sign, on Sep 23, you may get an inkling of how all of this will pan out eventually. But still, Mercury is not done moving back over things until Oct 2, so you must be patient with your plans. And you must be open to alterations throughout.

Think of it as a stock-take and you'll probably fair better. When you count your blessings, and your failings, as well as everything in between, you may need a recount as you balance the books. And if you are favored by Mercury at this time, you may do so dispassionately, practically. If you are more favored by Jupiter, you can also gain access to a operating system that can do much of the work for you. Okay, enough with the analogies, I can hear you say! Basically, the Sun's transit to Virgo, with Mercury retrograde and Jupiter opposite, is a good time to slow down, step back and reevaluate.

Equinox Sep 23
The Equinox occurs at 02:03 BST on Sep 23 this year, and although this is the exact timing, there's a lead up to, and away from, this balancing point. This means we have the possibility of reaching a state of equilibrium in our lives, between doing and being.

You may find yourself redoing many things at this time of course, but if you cannot take some time out and step back from the details, you are not making the most of the potentials. If you focus solely on problems (Virgo), for example, you cannot see the meaning in it (Pisces). If you are too orderly, wishing to be more productive and efficient, you may miss much of the wonder of spontaneity.

In finding your balance, you can take a pause for a time, suspended in space, as you appreciate the harmony that is possible. And appreciate is certainly the choice word, as the day after the Equinox Venus moves into its fall. Many things may fall away at this time, many dreams you had about the way you thought your life should be. Be if you can let go of the need to hold onto things that are falling away, you are more likely to make space for something else.

Venus in Virgo Sep 24 - Oct 18
While Mercury is happiest working and reworking things in Virgo, with the Sun happy to go along with sharing out the spoils, Venus is least happy getting bogged down here. It doesn't matter how well you reorder your life if you don't enjoy it, does it?!

Venus in Virgo is debilitated. It doesn't function well here. It's harder to find appreciation for someone or something you are weighing up. Venus in Virgo is someone making a list for the perfect partner, as if making a shopping list. Not only do you not get all that's on the list, but when you get to know them better you see the goods are either spoilt or something's off. Okay, enough with the stocktaking analogy already! Simply, Venus is not happy in Virgo. While it transits the sign, we are not either.

Yet. Yet, there is an upside this time around. That is, Mercury is transiting alongside Venus in Virgo, which props Venus up. Yes, Mercury itself is pulled down by Venus' bad mood, effecting communications, but at least we are trying to talk about it. It's less of a walking away from a person or situation, then staying to try to work out. Problems begin when all we focus on is problems!

Mercury's retrograde, opposite Jupiter, adds to the confusion, the theme of this month, apparently. Yet if you can take your time with these transits, you can find something to appreciate, even if it's simply that you can dream another dream.

One of the downsides of Venus in Virgo, now fueled by Jupiter's opposition, exact by the end of the month and early October is not feeling loved or appreciated. You may find yourself overindulging to try to get that sparkle back, forgetting that you are not just loved, you are love. You were born from an act of loving-making. You're literally a product of love.

So, make love, not war, even when disagreement is probably going to be the more obvious expression of this configuration. The arguments that take place behind closed doors are reflections of the breakdown in diplomacy in the world around us.

Look for what you want to see, without ignoring problems. While Venus in Virgo can find fault in even the most desirous setting, it's also a good time to improve things. Find your dreamy sunset, your 5-star resort holiday in the Sun, by all means, but realize you don't have to run away to enjoy your life. If you cannot enjoy yourself in your life, no amount of 5-star, gold-studded, diamond-encrusted bling is going to cut it.

And when the economy most likely dips, along with the mood in late September and October, find appreciation in the little things. While these things may be a problem at this time, and a case of ''you don't know what you got til it's gone'', you can find happiness whether things work out. Fill yourself up so you are overflowing, without overindulging. But don't leave yourself feeling spent either.

New Moon in Virgo (Uttaraphalgunī) Sep 25
This is a lunar mansion that is all about friendship and partnership, sharing gifts, wealth, and resources. It bridges both Leo and Virgo, taking the gifts of Leo to the practical realms of Virgo.

One of the sign's symbols is the head of the marital bed, while it is ruled by the god of marriage, representing co-operation and commitment in relationships. It's one of the more auspicious lunar mansions, one of the best for getting married.

Now, that must come with a caveat: I would certainly not get married with Venus in Virgo (Sep 24 - Oct 18). And I wouldn't get married on a New Moon either. Perhaps this New Moon in this auspicious lunar mansion is a time to reset intentions about what or who you want to commit to. Decide on this before signing on the dotted line.

As always, the New Moon is a drawing the attention inward as the energy wanes and reboots for the coming lunar month, one that has within it the potential to overdo it when you feel a lack of some kind. Instead of focusing on lack, focus on what you can let go of, so you can start again.

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As always, I wish you the very best for the month ahead.

Om Tat Sat

1/8/2022

August 2022 Forecast

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August begins as July ends - with a bang! Mars joins Rahu and Uranus by exact degree, on Aug 1. This trio continues to wreak havoc. It won’t be until Aug 10 that Mars leaves the fiery Aries behind for the steadier Taurus. Even then, Rahu continues to provoke Mars, itself being provoked by Uranus.

Mars stays in Taurus until next March. Yes, you read that right! Mars usually stays in a sign for a couple of months, but because of it's retrograde at the end of the year, it will spend many months in a sign that's all about the basics. Expect delays and reversals, frustrations and rebuttals. Expect food shortages, energy and resources to be a bone of contention through next year.

Venus enters Cancer on Aug 6, opposing Pluto on Aug 9, and Saturn on Aug 28. This may challenge us to keep the peace, because, well, that's all we want at this stage. The Sun opposes Saturn by Aug 14, before moving into a stronger position in Leo by Aug 16, away from the restrictions of Saturn and into an aspect from Rahu in Aries. Freedom beckons, whatever the cost. Pushing through these boundaries means more protests, and things that test our own boundaries and confidence, until the Sun reaches Leo. Venus moves into Leo by the end of the month, crossing the sensitive degrees between Cancer and Leo on Aug 31, adding further volatility to already unstable markets.

Uranus stations retrograde in Aries on Aug 24. This shows a need to reassess the changes that have taken place, and the damage that has occurred, so we can make adjustments. By retrograding so soon after meeting with Rahu, Uranus will hang out in close proximity to the 'shadow planet' until the end of the year, as Rahu continues to influence Mars in Taurus. This is likely expressed through fears for safety for many, probably because of food shortages, energy supply problems and economic challenges. Rahu and Uranus continue to square Saturn in Capricorn. Expect there to be a lot of conflict in the world, and in ourselves; between our need to do what we want and what we probably should do.

Saturn in Capricorn brings back further restrictions, ones that impact social life. This is due to Saturn's aspect to Libra, with Ketu now transiting here. Economic and social challenges are likely to continue into the New Year as a result. The outbreak of yet another virus is one expression of the threat still posed to Libra and our social lives.

At least Mercury is settling us down into some routine in Virgo, from Aug 20. This is a powerful position for intellectual and practical skills. Yet whatever plans are made now must be reviewed in September, with Mercury stationing retrograde. Mercury is in Virgo until Oct 26, so that is certainly good news for getting our lives in order. However, its retrograde from Sep 10 to Oct 2 is probably going to bring a lot of disorder for us to straighten out first.

There is a tale of two months in August, which is often the case each month as the Sun shifts signs by mid-month. The first half is all about the Mars-Rahu-Uranus conjunction, and planets' opposition to Saturn and Pluto in Capricorn. This is conflicted and volatile. Once the Sun moves into Leo and Mercury moves into Virgo, the second half brings more strength and confidence, while the nodes will have left the Taurus-Scorpio 9th division. This can ease tension and any 'doomscrolling'.

Venus in Cancer Aug 6 - 31
Venus moves into an opposition to Pluto as it enters Cancer (Aug 9) and then opposes Saturn later in the month (Aug 28). This adds to the sense of opposition and of threat, to our sense of security and peace of mind.

Pluto and Saturn's transit in Capricorn continues to shake up the world order, making us all feel unsafe. Though Venus in Cancer is usually a time to enjoy a holiday and some downtime at home, to connect to what brings happiness, Pluto and Saturn's influence brings a certain level of anxiety.

It's important not to avoid these feelings, but to be real about the potential threat. Mars continues to aspect Cancer, although a wider orb for Venus as it enters the sign. Yet still, there is always the possibility of overreacting to any perceived threat. Protect what you can and should. Leave the rest.

Venus in Cancer is at least influenced by Jupiter in Pisces, which brings a more positive potential. This allows us to take a step back and find more hope in stillness. When we can enjoy our environment in the present, we can hope for something better in the future, although Jupiter's retrograde in Pisces is asking us to look back to find that hope again, to reconnect with what used to fill us with inspiration.

Mars in Taurus Aug 10 - Oct 15 + Nov 13 - Mar 13, 2023
Mars spends a lot longer in Taurus this time around. This is due to its retrograde from Oct 30 this year until Jan 13 next year. Mars will briefly move into Gemini, from Oct 15 until Nov 13, where it will station retrograde.

For the most part, Mars is in Taurus for its retrograde phase, moving into its 'shadow', the point to which it will return by mid-Jan, from the beginning of September. This means, whatever is done in September and October will have to be redone in November, December and January.

I will write more about Mars' retrograde and what it's good for (everything is good for something) in subsequent reports, but suffice to say that August is a period to begin to look at ahead at what you are likely to be looking back over again. Whatever happens, remember that it has already happened, in a way. The future already exists on some level.

Whatever area of your life you experience the sign Taurus, by house position from your ascendant or Moon, you are looking at these to find strength again, and within. This may mean because the outer things are weakened, of course, sending you on a journey to reclaim your power.

This has obvious connotations with power supplies around the world, and the impact this has on the economy and supply chains. There is likely to be a lot of setbacks and frustrations that lead to all kinds of strife. Personally, there is likely to be a turning inward after a sense of frustration with outer events.

Mars retrogrades can be tricky to deal with - just like any retrograde planet - but Mars has a particularly tricky quality already. Mars is explosive and rash. When retrograde, it's unable to express its power so easily, though it has an especially large amount of it. Take it from someone who was born with Mars retrograde! If you don't state your case by point A, you're likely to explode or just walk away from something important by point Z.

Stating your case is important, but so is keeping it in perspective. Yet because Mars retrograde can feel more intense, more urgent, we may lose all perspective and overreact.

Repeat the following if feeling frustrated: It's all happening perfectly.

Rahu complicates Mars in Taurus, as does Ketu in Libra; Venus' other sign. Saturn's aspect to Libra further complicates Venus-related issues for the rest of 2022, including the economic outlook and our social lives and sense of fairness. Many things are likely to seem unfair. Yet everything is, just as it must be - just as it was always going to be.

Yet that doesn't mean you shouldn't live without a sense of agency and do stuff. Indeed, if you sit on this powerful Mars, you're likely to make things worse. If you're angry or frustrated, you don't have to say a word, and the words or arguments you have are probably nothing to do with the real issues; that is, power and control.

The more you try to control this twisted energy, the more likely you will get yourself into all kinds of binds. You could do something to shake off any build up of stress and tension through some physical activity, but be aware that when Mars is in Taurus aspected by Rahu in Aries, which is itself conjunct a retrograde Uranus, the energy is harder to manage.

This can test even the most patient and sweet of us; the Taureans amongst us, and the Taurus part of us. Mars in Taurus is like a bull in a China shop. Or maybe that's another bull market. Either way, think about what bull you're prodding and why. And think about why you get frustrated or angry about anything in the first place. There's an important message here.

You may not be able to control what happens in the world around you. You cannot stop a blackout or however it may express itself, but you may be able to control how you respond. And even if you cannot control how you respond, you can at least look at how you did respond and respond differently to that. In other words, you can make allowances and ease up on yourself. Mars' retrograde is where you may indeed beat yourself up, when the energy isn't allowed an external outlet. Find other ways to channel the inward force, so you can make the most of this powerful time.

These explosives need to be handled carefully. Your relationships need to be handled carefully, as do your finances and resources; anything you value, really. But you are not what you own, or even what you value. If you feel your values threatened in some way, remind yourself you are so much more. In doing so, you tap into your true source of power, which is always found within, anyway.

Full Moon in Capricorn (Dhaniṣṭhā) Aug 11/12
The Moon reaches its fullest late on Aug 11 and into the early hours of the morning of Aug 12 (BST). The Full Moon phase is a culmination point, an extreme end of the lunar cycle. This can brings thing to a head, releasing these things in the subsequent waning cycle.

The Moon joins Saturn in Capricorn, which means the Sun in Cancer opposes Saturn. This can show an opposition to system that feel restrictive. Any restrictions are but a mirror of the conflict within our being, reflected on the world stage. Sun-Saturn oppositions can show challenges with authority figures, leading to a lack of confidence in those who govern. This can even show an identity crisis if the significations for such are primed in one's birth chart.

The best use of this time is to discipline yourself, to restrain yourself. Otherwise, you may feel this as feeling restrained or restricted by some external force you may have a hard time with. Try not to scatter your energy; instead, focus it on one task at a time.

Dhaniṣṭhā means ‘wealthy’ and represents wealth in all aspects. It is ruled by the elemental demigods; the polestar, sky, wind, water, earth, pre-dawn, fire, and the Moon; all representing nature and the cosmos. This represents the truest expression of wealth when one is abundant in all aspects of life. And when financial matters are restricted in any way, we are reminded that there are many forms of wealth, not just monetary.

Dhaniṣṭhā is symbolized by a drum and flute, reflecting a link to music and sound, and the rhythm of life. The Full Moon in Dhaniṣṭhā is a good time for music and dance, to find your rhythm again. Yet it may just as easily be the case that you're thrown off your rhythm as the Sun opposes Saturn in this lunar mansion.

Sun in Leo Aug 16 - Sep 15
Once the Sun has opposed Saturn, it then moves into Leo, crossing the divide between Cancer and Leo, a juncture in the zodiac known as gandanta. This Sanskrit word is often translated as 'ending of a knot'. Something must come undone for a time, so we can unravel it and start over.

Things may seem more out of control as the Sun transitions from Cancer to Leo, but the Sun is moving into a place of strength, and out of a restricted opposition to Saturn in Capricorn. This can show more confidence; in our leaders; in our own abilities.

Sun in Leo is a time of year to feel fired up about the things that we feel pride in. We all have our unique talents and wish to be admired for them. Sun in Leo is a time to rediscover these, and to share them with others. Look to the house position of Leo in your birth chart and shine your light.

Instead of Saturn's restraint on the Sun, we now have Rahu and Mars aspecting, fueling an intense desire to express our unique gifts. This may be through creative endeavours, or whatever talent or skill you have you can share with the world.

Mercury in Virgo Aug 20 - Oct 26
It's time to get practical, to plan and schedule your life. Mercury is now moving ahead of the Sun, out of an aspect from Rahu and Mars, and into its sign of exaltation. Virgo is not only Mercury's sign of exaltation, it rules the sign and can do its best, most efficient, work here.

This means we are all likely to be on full scheduling mode in the coming weeks, eager to get our lives in order. This is a time to take stock and manage ourselves and our lives better. Virgo is all about betterment. The pitfall of this is attempting to micro-manage, overshooting the mark and getting all stressed about the details. Keep the bigger picture in mind at all times.

Jupiter and Neptune are opposite in Pisces asking us to keep things in perspective. Yet they are also retrograde at this time, which means, when Mercury also retrogrades in September, we are going to have to rethink what we have planned and ask ourselves if it is too idealistic.

Until then, Mercury in Virgo opposing Jupiter and Neptune in Pisces is a time to dream big and think outside the box as we plan the details. Those details are likely to become very confused indeed in September, so use the end of August and beginning of September to do so more effectively. The more you can factor these things into your plans, the more open-minded you can be, the more you are likely to acheive what you set out to do.

Uranus stations Retrograde Aug 24
Once Uranus stations retrograde by the end of August, all the slower moving planets are moving backwards from our perspective until the end of the year. It won't be until October that Saturn and Pluto station direct, with Jupiter following suit in November, and Neptune in December. Uranus is the last to retrograde and then turn direct. It will station direct in January 2023.

We don't always sense the 'outer planets', Uranus, Neptune and Pluto when they retrograde. Heck, we don't usually sense them in any which way. These planets are not visible, so they only sometimes make it into our conscious awareness. This usually occurs then they meet with a visible planet.

We've been very focused on Pluto in recent years, because of its conjunction with Saturn. This has brought Pluto themes of death and change into the systems with thought were unchangeable, only to realize that nothing can stay the same. We've been more focused on Neptune in relation to Jupiter, fueling an inflationary cycle in the economy and most likely an idealism that may find it hard to land on solid ground.

Uranus in Aries has made it into our awareness in recent years as many shocking and disturbing events, including war more recently. It's current conjunction with Mars and Rahu is both releveling and obscuring, exciting and disturbing. Mars tends to push things into our awareness quite abruptly, as can Rahu. Yet Rahu can oftentimes obscure the truth behind motivations.

As Uranus stations retrograde, it will continue to do so in close proximity to Rahu. This is likely to swing widely between revelations and obscurations in the coming months. Some things that happen are likely to perplex us.

Uranus and Rahu both move retrograde (the mean nodes always move retrograde) until January 2023. During this time, we will be making the internal changes that are needed as the world around us changes. The world around us and within us is always changing, of course, but where Uranus transits it often brings sudden changes we are not always prepared for. Get on board now.

During Uranus retrograde, we are asked to look within and see what needs to change. We must include our primal fears (Rahu) that are often misplaced in a modern context. Even when they are not, we can overreact and become irrational.

Look to the sign Aries to see where you could do with making adjustments in the coming months, where you have been making adjustments since 2016, when Uranus first entered the sign.

New Moon in Leo (Maghā) Aug 27
The energy wanes into the end of August for a New Moon in Leo and the lunar mansion Maghā. Maghā means 'magnificent' and 'mighty', which shows a sense of power and entitlement. Its symbols are a royal throne and crown. It is ruled by the ancestors, those who grant us our inherited gifts and resources. This gives a certain status and pride in family and lineage. It is associated with other-worldly spirits, as well as rituals which invoke powers from beyond the grave.

The New Moon in Maghā is a good time for tuning into our ancestors. It's a time for strategy. It's usually a time for taking action, however, the New Moon day itself is not the day to take action. It is a good day to plan for it. It's a time to set an intention. The Sun's strength in its own sign brings more confidence in making plans. And with the influence of Maghā for the month ahead, we can plan with the backing of those that have gone before us.

It may be a good time to call on your ancestors to help you in whatever you are doing, with respect to the house position Leo in your birth chart. It may be a creative endeavour (Aries), or new plan for your home (Taurus), a new enterprise (Gemini), or family or financial planning (Cancer); whether its a personal new beginning (Leo) or ending (Virgo), an ambitious goal (Libra) or new direction in your career (Scorpio), a new travel or study plan (Sagittarius), or plans to change an intimate relationship (Capricorn), or to start a new relationship (Aquarius), or to make an effort to improve your life (Pisces).

Whatever you are planning, Mars and Rahu is help you drive it forward, with Mars on the accelerator and Rahu dancing between the accelerator and break, bringing you forward in leaps and bounds, before slowing down and taking in the new territory.

Venus enters Leo Aug 31
As Venus prepares to enter Leo, it opposes Saturn in Capricorn. Together with Venus' transition through the sensitive juncture between Cancer and Leo, this can show a challenging time economically, and for relations, both on the global stage and in our personal lives. This may not be the best time for diplomacy. Planets' transits to these 'gaps in the zodiac' usually show something coming undone, so it can be remade in a new way.

Venus in Leo will move into an aspect from Mars in Taurus, fueling a passionate desire, while Rahu's aspect from Aries further exaggerates and distorts these desires. Venus in Leo is proud and regal, and, let's be honest, a little bit of a show off.

Venus in Leo is always one last blowout before things take a downturn in Virgo in September. Make the most of this, as pride (Leo), always comes before a fall (Virgo).

More on Venus' transit in Leo and Virgo next month ...

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As always, I wish you the very best of what the month has to offer.

Om Tat Sat

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