Low-Down Archives July-August 2007

July-August 2007

For the New Moon Cycle in Cancer:
July 14 to August 12/13, 2007

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Jul.14, 8:04 AM EDT – NEW MOON in CANCER (21:41) ("What's a New Moon?"  Read more about the Sun-Moon cycles.  Read more about the Cancer side of your personality.)

The New Moon in Cancer brings your domestic, feeling, intuitive and creative sides into focus. Cancer is the sign that holds your childhood memories, as well as past and present family experiences. As such, it is also connected to your innermost needs and feelings – the "Inner Child." In a way there are two sides to this Child, which are linked to Cancer and Leo. One is the creative, playful, curious Inner Child, which I think is slanted a bit more toward Leo energy. Then there is the vulnerable, sensitive Child that needs nurturing, safety and basic connection with others. This is the Cancer side of the Inner Child, which is emphasized during this lunar cycle.

The Cancerian Inner Child requires a nest in which to nestle. What do you feather your nest with? How do you decorate your space? Look around your home – what does it say about you? The state of your home often reflects your emotional state. If your place is crowded and cluttered, does this indicate emotional baggage that you need to let go of? If your home is in constant disarray, are you getting bogged down in unresolved problems elsewhere in your life? If your home is neat as a pin, never anything out of place, do you find it hard to let go of control?

I'm not suggesting you change your home environment to be more psychologically correct. It may simply provide a useful and interesting mirror that shows a different perspective on how your life is going. If the state of your home is a problem for you, then this lunar cycle could provide a good opportunity to focus on solutions. Sometimes changing your physical environment can help you change parts of your life that it reflects, and sometimes changing your life can help you find the energy and motivation to change your surroundings. If you're stuck in one, try changing the other.

The Moon itself is the planetary ruler of Cancer. Any scientist can tell you about how the fluctuating gravity of the Moon results in the changing tides in Earth's oceans. And anyone with Cancer strong in their natal chart can tell you how easily your mood and state of mind ebbs and flows like the ocean, in sync with the phases of the Moon. During the New Moon cycle in Cancer, everyone gets to feel what it's like to be a Cancer. Your feelings may be more open and fluid than usual. You might notice more intuitive sensitivity than usual. You could be seized by an uncontrollable urge to bake bread and hug babies.

Feelings are tricky things. Who knows where they really come from? Do they originate in your mind? Your body? Your spirit? Your unconscious? It's a mystery. The lunar cycle begins with a New Moon, also known as the Dark of the Moon because the Moon isn't visible in the sky at this time, making the night time especially dark. In the dark are movements in the shadows and things that are difficult to see clearly. At the New Moon, there are the stirrings of new activities, impulses and urges that we may not start to see clearly until the First Quarter Moon, about a week later. While that energy is murky and indistinct, our free-floating hopes and fears can move in to fill in the spaces of what is still unknown.

As the lit portion of the Moon waxes and grows, the energy begun at the New Moon expands with it, coming to full light at the Full Moon. Emotions are wide open, and whatever has been lurking inside of you—in your awareness or unconsciously—has an open door through which to emerge. If you have been nurturing painful or difficult feelings inside, they can become amplified at the Full Moon. By emerging, you have a chance to work with those feelings and find some healing during the rest of the cycle. If you have cultivated creative, joyful or healing feelings, the Full Moon can become the outlet for these. So, whether the Full Moon lights a match to a powder keg or delightful fireworks, it tends to be a time of intense, amplified emotion. The remaining 2 weeks, as the Moon's light wanes, are spent assessing and integrating what has emerged.

This particular New Moon cycle may bring out those free-floating hopes and fears even more than usual. The Sun and Moon are in exact quincunx aspect to Neptune, which can amplify the ambiguous elements of the unknown, as well as our feelings about that unknown. You might find your hopes and fears are more fluid during this New Moon. Your imagination is likely more fluid during this time. If you feel shut down emotionally or imaginatively, check inside to see if you might be blocking some deep-down feelings. Or is it possible you might be shut down because of what you're afraid might come out of that deep-down place?

And of course, with Saturn and Neptune still in opposition, the Sun and Moon are also in semi-sextile aspect to Saturn. This is a subtle aspect energy. You might go through times when you think, "Okay, I've got a handle on this now," only to have it slip away. Or you could find personal boundaries with people fluctuating somewhere between rigid and spongy.

Physical and emotional energy may feel challenged during this cycle. Mars in Taurus square Chiron could capture that release of unconscious feelings, resulting in physical fatigue or lack of confidence. However, it could also provide a chance to work through some of those feelings in a less confrontational or volatile way. For example, you might be able to soothe feelings of powerlessness by taking care of yourself if you feel ill. Or, if you are so elated with hope and fantasy that you become overly euphoric, you could find ways to ground yourself by becoming more present in your body. Massages or physical exercise can be great for that.

With Venus and Saturn still moving in slow conjunction (Jun.20-Aug.25), and Venus about to go retrograde (Jul.27/28), relationships and finances may be on your mind. In the context of a Cancer New Moon, this may specifically involve relationships with family members. Or, it could amplify and highlight the ways that childhood experiences still influence your current approach to relationships—good and bad. If your relationships are going through difficult times, your natal chart might be being especially affected by Saturn and Venus.

Venus conjunct Saturn can also affect your assets, creativity and values. There could be a need for careful management of money and resources, perhaps to counteract an impulsive Inner Child hungry for comforting distractions. Or, you might discover you are able to manifest your creative spirit, but this requires hard work to develop the means to manifest that creativity.

A personal reading can give you valuable insight to help you navigate through the times ahead. Find out more...

 

Jul.14 – Venus enters Virgo (until Aug.08)

Under this transit, it is possible to fall in love with purity, precision and analysis. It is a time to invest in health, efficiency, and your contribution to the world around you. The beauty is in the details, as you embrace a labour of love in your life. Just don't get so enamoured with pristine splendour that you get lost in perfectionism and unable to accept the natural imperfection that exists in all life and humanity. Each of us is the Universe's perfect child, but we are also in a state of becoming and growing and are therefore likely to make human mistakes. Remember that we're here for the journey, as much as the destination. This part of the journey takes us into service and devotion, whether that is focused on another person or on ourselves.

Venus barely dips into Virgo (less than 3 degrees) before she goes retrograde on Jul.27. She'll spend most of that time in Leo and then return to Virgo on Oct.08.

Jul.14 – Mars square Chiron (14:12 of Taurus/Aquarius) (Jul.15 in AU)

It may be time to confront issues in your life that involve how/why you get hurt by others, how you yourself hurt others, and how healing can take place in either of these situations. Your awareness of this may due to a conflict in your life, but this can be a valuable learning experience for you, more-so than usual. Part of the problem may be that you need to tread your own path but are avoiding this for whatever reasons -- perhaps circumstances compel you to satisfy others' expectations, or perhaps you are still struggling to muster the courage to find and walk your own path. Whatever the reasons, this transit may give you a push that will help to steer you in a healing direction, possibly by showing you how and why the path you have been on does not lead to where you want to go. If you start to feel overwhelmed, take some time out from the stress to get re-centered and grounded.

Jul.16 – Pluto conjunct the Galactic Center (26:57 Sagittarius)

Today Pluto is precisely conjunct the Galactic Center (GC) according to Ephemeris.com. This is such a slow-moving transit that it's unlikely to produce any Earth shattering evidence of its effects on this particular day. ;-) Pluto actually makes 3 passes to the GC – Dec.29.2006, Jul.16.2007 and Oct.27.2007. (The accuracy of these exact dates probably has at least a day or more of wiggle room.) Pluto has been within a one degree orb for this current pass since Jun.07 and remains within that orb until Nov.29 after making is final pass in October.

What does it mean? Good question! Some astrologers attribute enormous significance to any planetary interaction with the GC – it is, after all, the center point of our own Milky Way Galaxy. If the Sun is the central hub of our solar system, around which all other planetary energies revolve, then the Galactic Center is like a trans-personal still point around which our greatest potentials and dreams revolve. When a slow-moving planet like Pluto aligns with the GC, this suggests a very powerful transformation on a global level. If you are attuned to the depths of your spirit – and especially if you have any natal planets or points at 26 degrees (particularly in Sagittarius) – then this could be a time of profound personal transformation as well.

Jul.19-Aug.03 – T-square Aspect Configuration (Saturn opposite Neptune, square Mars) (closest Jul.31-Aug.01)

Mars forms the final aspect configuration to Saturn and Neptune before they move out of orb from their long opposition (since August 2006). Mars will activate whatever it touches. It wants to do something with whatever it encounters – put it into action, change it, pull it closer, push it away, confront it, fight it, defend it, conquer it.

Mars has the last word with the Saturn-Neptune opposition, as it forms a T-square configuration. This is a challenge to take action based on what you have experienced, learned and struggled with in the last year. Even if you don't feel you have succeeded in what you set out to do this past year, Mars could push you into extracting some practical wisdom from your experiences. So drag out last year's calendar and go over what was happening in your life last year and this year. What would you do differently, if you could do it over again? What benefits have you gained, and what kind of price did you have to pay for them? Was it worth it?

As with all things Saturn-Neptune, any action inspired by Mars right now is not likely to go in a straight line. If you're ready, centered and grounded, Saturn and Neptune can provide the discipline, resolve, inspiration and faith that will push and/or carry you forward. On the other hand, you may feel caught between Saturn's demand for final commitment ("There's no turning back!") and Neptune's perfectionism ("It better be perfect!"). At worst, you could become paralyzed by feelings of self-doubt, inadequacy, indecisiveness or stubbornness. At best, you can work out that delicate balance between relying on your own conscious control versus having blind faith in the Universe.

If you get stuck, ironically it may help to slow down your reactions a bit. Take some time out, get grounded in your body (be here now) and centered (let go of frustration and find your calm centre). It could be your knee-jerk internal reactions that create panic, which can lead to shutting down and becoming paralyzed. Do something that helps you become more comfortable in your body, like a massage or swimming or a luxurious bath. It may also help to seek out feedback, advice and a different perspective that can shift you out of your stuck space. A personal reading can be a valuable resource to do just that.

Jul.20 – Mars sextile Uranus (18:24 of Taurus/Pisces) (Jul.21 in AU)

You have an opportunity to move forward through inspired action. This can bring creative problem solving to any conflicts or challenges that are currently in your life. Now is the time to think outside the box and experiment with trying out new responses, actions and directions. It may be easier to be spontaneous and even to act "out of character." If this is something you easily go overboard with, you might want to find ways to channel this constructively. The idea is to be refreshingly spontaneous, not recklessly impulsive. On the other hand, if you have trouble kicking up your heels and being free and unfettered, this transit can be used to get you moving a bit better. If you don't use this energy constructively or consciously, you might wind up feeling somewhat erratic or restless. Find something exciting, inspiring or unusual to spend your energy on.

Jul.23 – Sun enters Leo (until Aug.23)

Happy Solar Return to all Leos! Today the Sun moves into its own sign, so its radiant energy is extra bright during this time. Leo's focus is on identity, individuality, self-esteem, creativity, self-expression and fun. You can benefit by rejuvenating, revitalising and rekindling the fiery spirit of who you are. Celebrate your existence! Do something that reminds you about who you are. Recharge your batteries and do things that help you return to the centre of the orbiting circumstances in your life -- not spinning around at the edges where you feel at the mercy of everything around you. What are you doing (or what do you want to do) in your life that express the passions that move you? What is the focus of your sense of purpose in life, and what is your next step in moving toward that? If you've been feeling like you're stuck or have lost your sense of purpose, do something that uplifts you. If you could do anything with your life that you wanted to, what would it be? And what one thing (even just a small thing) can you do to take a step toward that goal? Rejuvenate your sense of self and do things that help you to just BE who you are. Hang out with children and watch how they play and are spontaneously free. Find ways to connect to your joyful Inner Child. Celebrate your existence!

Jul.24 – Mars square Neptune (21:10 of Taurus/Aquarius)

For up to a week before and after today, you have a chance to discover and work with your blind spots and the hidden motives that trip you up. It may feel like you are spinning your wheels or "shadow-boxing" and not even sure why. You may be fighting a hidden agenda or unconscious motives (yours or someone else's). You might also be trying to apply a concrete solution to an ambiguous situation, and then wondering why it isn't working very well. Responding to conflicts in a passive-aggressive or manipulative way can be tempting under this transit, since you may not know how to take direct and effective action. Resentment might become a defiant way to express toothless anger. Part of the problem may be that you are fighting against your own idealism, and resisting the acceptance that the other person or situation can't be the way you want them to be. Feelings of disappointment or helplessness may trigger much deeper feelings from your unconscious, making it difficult for you to know how to respond effectively in the here-and-now. It will probably help to work on owning your feelings, needs, longings and (hidden) agendas. Being honest with yourself about what's really going on inside you will go a long way toward increasing your empowerment.

Jul.24 – Mercury leaves the Shadow

Mercury is finally finished with this retrograde cycle. Perhaps you've been waiting for this moment to make some major decisions. Or maybe you've just been holding your breath, waiting for Mercury to outgrow his Brat phase. It's okay to breathe now – you're (relatively) safe until October. ;-)  

Jul.27 – Venus stationary Retrograde (02:57 of Virgo) (Jul.28 in AU) ("What is retrograde?"  Read article on Venus Retrograde.  Read more articles about retrograde planets.)

For up to a week before and after this date, you may experience more intense energy in the areas of relationships, finances, beauty, self-worth and harmony. Similar to Mercury retrograde, Venus retrograde is a time when we go back over the same ground we just came through in order to refine, polish and adjust these affected areas in our lives. It is a time to reassess, reconsider, renegotiate and re-evaluate.

When Venus is retrograde, latent relationship problems could become outright conflicts. Alternatively, current problems might take a rest and go underground for a while, as everyone regroups and reassesses what is important to them. If you have been keeping the "peace at any price," this can be a time when that peace becomes very fragile and you are faced with having to deal with old unresolved problems—again!

Finances can shift directions too. Income and resources might become somewhat scarce, forcing you to let go of or rethink your strategy for finances and assets. Or, you might find your material resources booming—although be careful: your spending could increase too.

Concerns about personal appearance, fashion, beauty and charm may become conspicuous by their absence or suddenly become more important. This is a time to examine your value system and decide whether you still prioritize, enjoy and cherish the same things in the same way. Are you truly living according to your values?

This Venus retrograde is part of a larger cycle that repeats every 8 years in Virgo and Leo. If you have any natal planets in very early Virgo or late Leo, you will feel the Venus process of beautification, affection, harmonization and evaluation through that area of your life. For example, if you were born from mid- to late-August, this affects your Sun and may bring up issues about self-love, charisma, putting your best face forward and how much you're able to be yourself in a close relationship. This is part of a deeper, long-term process that could span many years in the past and/or future. To get a better understanding of how this Venus retrograde cycle is affecting you, a Personal Astrology Reading is your best option. Your astrologer (that's me!) can look at how your whole natal chart is interacting with Venus over the next few months.

Venus initiates this retrograde period in early Virgo. This may bring up a need for purification, healing and practicality. For instance, are you involved with someone close to you because you really care about them or because it gives you some kind of advantage? Or perhaps there is a toxic dynamic between you and a loved one that needs to be washed clean and healed? Self-honesty and dedication to your highest values will do more to keep your integrity on track than trying to do something because you think you "should."

Venus is in Leo for most of this retrograde cycle. This could lead you to re-evaluate how you express the love and beauty inside you (be that artistically or just by being your sunny self), although there is always the danger of trying too hard to "make it happen." This could create an artificial or superficial quality to the pride and joy you want to express. Go within yourself first to find that spark of human kindness and vitality; then allow it to radiate naturally.

Jul.28 – Mercury trine Uranus (18:13 of Cancer/Pisces)

Unusual ideas, flashes of insight, and seeing unexpected possibilities, are all part of this transit. You may find it easier to be open-minded right now, especially about insights that have eluded you. Your ability to see beyond your usual horizon of perception can bring visionary brainwaves, as well as a fun sense of humour. You might be inspired to experiment with something new or do something out of character. You might have an impulse to break free of old habits or constraints. This can be a very liberating transit that opens your mind to new possibilities and ideas. However, be careful that you don't become so liberated and spontaneous that you become erratic, hyper or reckless. Words may come tumbling out of your mouth before you've had a chance to consider their wisdom, or you might find yourself talking non-stop and interrupting, creating a bit of awkwardness in those around you. On the other hand, you might also find the clarity and vision that gives you the words to speak your truth with new conviction. It's a great time to do some writing or other form of self-expression, especially if it's spontaneous or involving technology.


Sabian Symbol for the
Full Moon in Capricorn

Aquarius 7

A child being born
out of an egg.

This Sabian Symbol ("What's a Sabian Symbol?") sounds like an unconventional Aquarian's answer to the question of where babies come from! Or, perhaps it seems to echo the mantra in Robert Heinlein's book, Stranger in a Strange Land, "I am only an egg," which humbly acknowledges how much we have yet to learn.

Humans are not born of eggs any more than they're born of cabbage patches (last I checked). That makes this image pretty bizarre, to say the least! It implies a kind of mutant quality—something that is adapted from the norm, yet which deviates from it in a significant way. Something unusual and unique is being born!

The question is: How do you feel about it? And what will you do with it or about it? Will you shudder in horror and reject it, or will you embrace it and explore it as something unique that can show you a new side of life? Or will you idealize it and see its uniqueness as something that can liberate you effortlessly from all that weighs you down?

This is part of the Aquarian experience. Ask any Aquarian—they'll probably tell you they've experienced all of these reactions from people over the years, and all because they tend to see life from a slightly different perspective than the rest of us.

This Sabian Symbol says something has been developing (incubating) in your life for a while, and now the result is emerging. This probably relates to the Saturn-Neptune opposition that is just finishing its 10-month evolution (see Aug.31, Feb.28 and Jun.25). The Full Moon chart contains the last major aspect configuration involving the Saturn-Neptune opposition—a T-square to Mars.

Mars is about action, so what actions are you taking now that reflect ways you have grown over the past 10 months? Mars is about change—how is your life changing now? Mars is confrontation and reaction—what unusual, unique or distorted experiences are you encountering in your life, and how are you reacting (or responding) to them?

It's time to find out what you've been nurturing for these last many months. Whatever it is—good or bad—it carries a gift for you. Learn from it, have compassion for it, nurture its innocence and above all, resist the urge to simply dismiss it.

Read more about the Sabian Symbols in these recommended books:

The Sabian Symbols in Astrology,
by Marc Edmund Jones

An Astrological Mandala,
by Dane Rudhyar

The Sabian Symbols: The Original Symbols Fully Revealed,
by Blain Bovee

Jul.29, 8:47 PM EDT – FULL MOON in AQUARIUS (06:31) ("What's a Full Moon?"  Read more about the Sun-Moon cycles.) (Jul.30 in UK, AU)

Visions of the future! The Full Moon in Aquarius opens a time portal to let you glimpse all that is possible. Not only does this time portal let you glimpse beyond your present circumstances, it also gives you the opportunity to take what isn't working in those circumstances and toss them out the airlock!

Visionary Jupiter forms a Wedge configuration to the Full Moon, being trine the Sun and sextile the Moon. This amplifies the visionary, speculative and optimistic qualities of the Full Moon energy, parading a vast array of options before your fired up imagination. You may have a wide diversity of experiences in the world around you right now – people of different races, cultures, religions or backgrounds, or perhaps people. You might be faced with a thousand possibilities and feel like a kid in front of a candy counter, trying to figure out what to pick next!

Alternatively, you may suddenly be able to see the positive potential in what has been a difficult or heavy situation. You could finally feel like you're seeing a light at the end of the tunnel. Unfortunately, there's no guarantee that the light is not an oncoming train, so it's wise to keep a balanced realistic view.

Mars is still forming the T-square to the Saturn-Neptune opposition (Jul.19 to Aug.03) and is very closely square to Saturn. This means that whatever looks like a smooth, open road right now, probably has more twists, turns, dips and potholes than you think. It pays to proceed with some healthy caution, so you can deal with any unexpected changes or obstacles that might come up.

On the other hand, you might simply be working hard to achieve the results you're aiming for. Serious effort combined with being open to a vision of potential can be a powerful recipe for success right now! But they do need to be kept in balance to work to your best advantage.

Venus has just gone retrograde (Jul.27) and is still widely conjunct Saturn (the traditional ruler of the Full Moon's sign, Aquarius). Not only are you faced with future possibilities, but you probably will need to evaluate their validity and value based on what has happened in the past. For example, if you are starting a new direction in your life, you might find yourself thinking back to similar past situations and wondering if any old issues might come back to haunt you. Perhaps you see a glimmer of a parallel theme and you're concerned you might encounter the same kinds of problems. Or, you could see potential in this new situation that echoes lost opportunities from the past. Work and health are prime areas where this might play out, as well as relationships.

Mercury is trine to Uranus, the modern planetary ruler of the Full Moon's sign. This emphasizes an optimism outlook and being able to break out of your old mindset that might be holding you back from reaching for your full potential. This aspect also helps to keep you in good humour, especially if you can laugh about your own shortcomings and take lightly those of others. This transit can also open your mind to new ways of seeing things, and help you give a voice to whatever needs to be said. Just be careful you don't blurt out your truth so abruptly that you unintentionally tear strips off the listener.

There is obviously a lot of shifting energy happening during the last half of this lunar cycle. A Personal Reading can give you a map to navigate through the peaks and valleys, ups and downs, obstacles and opportunities of what's coming. Find out more...

Jul.31 – Mars square Saturn (25:53 of Taurus/Leo) (Aug/01 in UK, AU)

The impulsive forward action of Mars meets the serious structure of Saturn. The resulting friction can often generate considerable heat in the form of frustration, argument, conflict and stress -- but also productivity and results for hard work. Your efforts may seem thwarted and your actions blocked at every turn. Your sensitivity to problems with authority figures can be especially high, as well as your sensitivity to others not cooperating with your own role as an authority figure. The youthful, free spirit in you is somehow required to deal with the serious, responsible, cautious side of you, and a power struggle between the two energies can easily result. If one side wins out over the other, either depression and guilt or rebellion and obsession may result. However, you are not without power or ability! This friction can also be put to use in very productive ways. Your energy, desire and goals can be made manifest and concrete -- even if possibly forced by circumstance. Obstacles can strengthen us, if we work with them instead of just fighting against them. To minimise interpersonal problems, remember that assertiveness is important, but aggression or rigidity will usually only get the other person's back up. You may find yourself in a situation where you must defend or assert your personal boundaries. Or, you might find it difficult to comply with someone else's boundaries. If the heat from this transit starts to overwhelm you, take some time out, find a safe (perhaps creative?) outlet to vent your feelings, and then find a new way to approach the problem.

Aug.02 – Sun Trine Jupiter (09:58 of Leo/Sagittarius) (Aug.03 in AU)

This is a time when your understanding of the Big Picture and your place within it can click into place. As a result, your confidence and self-esteem can be quite high right now. Your ability to see opportunities and possibilities more clearly can produce an experience of being "lucky." Your insight into life and the world around you may be especially bright, optimistic and inspired. This is a "feel-good" transit, when your sense of self can seem to expand and become free. You may feel especially connected to spiritual energy during this time, finding new meaning in your live and the events that unfold around you. Self-confidence can run high now, and you could feel inspired to fight for justice or some cause. At the same time, there is a chance that all this self-assurance and "knowing" could go overboard into over-confidence, dogmatism or over-indulgence if it's not grounded in realism and humility. Just use your best judgment and enjoy this warm, shining energy!

Aug.03 – Mercury sextile Mars (27:29 of Cancer/Taurus)

There is a potential now to find the courage to speak your mind and say what needs to be said, if you focus consciously on doing so. In fact, your ideas and words may come so quickly and easily that it's hard to stop them from tumbling out of your mouth before you've had a chance to evaluate the best way to say them. Communication is probably easiest and most effective when it's direct, concise and quick, although it might also be a bit blunt or pointed. If you need to confront someone about a difficult situation, this transit can provide courage and clear words to help you do that -- although perhaps a bit too forceful when a more delicate, sensitive touch is called for. It is a time when you might find the nerve to take risks, or to defend yourself if the need arises (especially verbally). This is a good transit for creative problem solving and trying on decisions to see if they fit.

Aug.04 – Mercury enters Leo (until Aug.19) (Aug.05 in AU)

While Mercury struts through Leo, your creativity and self-expression are flying high! Your communication strives to express more than just facts or information  --  it wants to convey the dramatic energy that tells a story in larger-than-life proportions! How you perceive and experience life right now can be vivid, dramatic and fun, as you pick up more easily on the expressive and "feel-good" elements of what's happening around you. You may become very creative, inspired and motivated during this time. The downside is that it may also easier to indulge in a mindset that is self-serving, egotistical or overconfident. Your motives are likely to be noble, heroic and full of good intentions, but you could also become so in love with your vision of what's possible that you miss valid criticism or drawbacks. This is a time to enjoy the playful delights of sports, games, humor, fun and children.

Aug.05 – Sun Opposite Chiron (13:02 of Leo/Aquarius) (Aug.06 in AU)

This transit can bring a challenge to your sense of personal purpose versus the trans-personal vision of possibilities. This could play out in many areas; for instance, spirituality, career, life direction, physical or emotional healing, etc. Perhaps you are feeling a conflict between what you want to gain on a personal level versus a higher vision of what you could be capable of. The problem is that to reach for greater possibilities, you have to move beyond your comfort zone. There is a certain amount of risk and sacrifice involved in any kind of growth. You might worry that moving into a larger context could undermine your self-esteem by making you feel small or inadequate. You may be concerned that you'd have to give up personal rewards in order to achieve that higher vision. Regardless of how this plays out in your life, the struggle to find a balance you can live with -- between what is and what could be -- is the purpose of this transit. Later it will be time to take further action, but for how it is important to grapple with the dynamics of your situation which will lead to a decision.

Astrology Readings with Wendy Guy, Astrological Counselor

Feeling lost in a maze? Not sure which way to go? We'll work together to give you a fresh perspective and get you back on your best path!

Find out more here or contact me for more information.

Aug.06 – Saturn trine Pluto (26:34 of Leo/Sagittarius)

Both of these planets have enormous strength and ambition! The Saturn part of you draws its strength from structured organisation, self-reliance and authority. The Pluto part of you takes strength from power, depth and sheer grit. When these two energies cooperate through a trine aspect, they can be a formidable force! This transit can bring an opportunity to make substantial progress in your ambitions, projects and goals. You have increased ability to make decisions about important matters in your life, and the power to carry them out. This energy can give you the patience and persistence needed to push past obstacles and succeed at what you put your mind to.

There is always a catch though. There is a risk of going overboard and becoming SO overpowering and determined that you could lose touch with your empathy and sensitivity. This is especially true with Pluto being extra strong right now, from being conjunct the Galactic Center. Be careful you don't alienate people or leave a path of destruction behind, as you press onward to achieve your aims. Strive to balance force with receptivity, determination with cooperation and authority with compassion. The other down side is that trine energy can often be taken for granted and not used to its fullest potential. If you have an area of your life where you would like to make significant progress, make a point of using this time to take advantage of the gift of energy that this transit brings. You might have to work extremely hard to get the benefits, but the results will probably be worth the effort. And you'll likely find you have more ability, drive, confidence and endurance than you think you will.

Although there is only one exact pass of this transit (Aug.06), they come very close to the trine again in April and May of 2008 (when Pluto stations retrograde and Saturn stations direct). The exact pass is likely to provide a spurt of opportunity to tap into these powerful energies, and the almost-pass next year could bring the chance to tie up loose ends from now – to solidify and integrate your efforts with your other actions and plans.

It is also worth mentioning that by the time this next near-trine happens in 2008, Pluto will be in Capricorn. This is significant on a number of levels. With Saturn being the planetary ruler of Capricorn, this current Saturn-Pluto trine is like a prelude to the Pluto in Capricorn energy. You will be able to catch a glimpse of this upcoming shift in energy and catch a few drops of its essence. Think of it as "priming the pump" or like yoghurt culture that can be used to create more of the same. This current Saturn-Pluto transit could set something in motion that will play out in more detail and depth as Pluto progresses through Capricorn (2008 to 2023). Therefore, use this energy wisely and mindfully to help you align the upcoming Pluto-in-Capricorn energy in a more productive and beneficial direction.

Aug.06 – Jupiter stationary Direct (09:56 of Sagittarius) (Aug.07 in UK, AU) ("What's a Station?"  "What does Direct mean?"  Read more about Stations.  Read more about retrogrades.)

For up to a week before and after this date, you may feel a surge of idealism, inspiration and confidence. A quest for knowledge, truth, optimism and faith could become a beacon of energy in your life. Jupiter has been retrograde since Apr.05.2007 and is now changing direction again and resuming its normal direct motion. You may have been exploring and developing the deeper qualities of spirituality, beliefs, confidence, knowledge, faith and/or optimism during that time. Or you might have found ways to expand your horizons—directly through travel or indirectly through the study of other cultures and languages. For the next 3 months (as Jupiter retraces its steps through the Shadow), you can start to apply and integrate what you've learned over the past 4 months. For example, if you have been taking a course or exploring your religious beliefs, this might be a time when you are able to put your discoveries into practice or place them into your worldview. This turning point may be uplifting, overwhelming, inspiring and/or illuminating. You could discover new meaning in areas of life that had become stale or worn out, or you might realise that your old ways of understanding don't work for you anymore and need to be let go. Whatever you've learned or gained over the last 4 months, it is now available to be expressed and used more openly and directly in your life.

Aug.07 – Mars enters Gemini (until Sep.28)

Your physical and mental energy are likely to be more available in Gemini -- in fact, maybe a bit too available! You typically have the energy to pursue opportunities and ideas, but this can also make you a bit distracted or shorten your attention span. Inspired ideas can lead to impulsive action, which is great when you want to be decisive, take the initiative or find courage in the moment. However, if your ideas are not well grounded or thought out, you might "shoot first and ask questions later." The more you can focus your mind to go after what you want, the more effective your actions will be. With Mars in Gemini, "the pen is mightier than the sword." When conflict arises, it is more likely to be fought and resolved with words and ideas, than with fists. This is a good time to mentally focus your intent and then act on your ideas.

Aug.07 – Venus square Mars (00:28 of Virgo/Gemini) (Aug.08 in UK, AU)

Your receptive, diplomatic side is arguing with your assertive, decisive side. The result is either a battle of wills between your Yin and Yang, or a new creative energy that harnesses both. This could manifest in the form of relationship problems, financial struggles, arguments about control, or you are propelled to take action with plans that have been percolating for a while. If you're usually more comfortable with your Yin side (receptive, diplomatic), you might feel a bit backed into a corner or forced to negotiate under pressure. If you're more at home in your Yang side (assertive, action-oriented), you may feel compelled to blunt or sheathe the sword you would prefer to smite your enemy with. Either way, this is about balancing the two sides and finding a new cooperation that works for both.

Aug.08 – Venus Retrograde enters Leo (until Oct.08) (Aug.09 in UK, AU)

This can be a very creative time, as Venus' love of beauty combines with Leo's creative flair for the dramatic. Find ways to feel good by making your surroundings and yourself beautiful and reflective of your inner spirit! High fashion and vogue style are "in," and crudeness and ordinariness are out...unless you want to turn them into a fashion statement. ;-) However, it's probably wise not to become so identified with the outer appearance of yourself or others that you lose sight of the person, situation or context that it's all happening in. The aim is to pamper yourself with pleasures that enhance your quality of life, without inflating your ego with synthetic self-esteem and glamour without substance. Relationships, interaction, finances, values and resources all need to include ways to express your identity, valour and "heart." Some light-hearted fun and play can be a good place to start.

Venus is retrograde in Leo. This is a time to take another look at how you feel about yourself. Do you love yourself? Or does that sound like an absurd concept? Do you at least like yourself? If you met someone just like you, could you empathize enough to look beyond their human shortcomings and appreciate their strengths and gifts? Are you able to do the same with yourself? Venus retrograde in Leo asks you to reconsider your relationship with yourself, since this comes through in how you relate to other people. It is also a time to rediscover ways to find and express the beauty and love inside of you. This could be anything from the arts (visual art, music, performance, dance, writing, etc.) to buying something beautiful (clothes, doing something different with your hair, something for your home, etc.) to polishing up your values so that you see the best in everyone around you. This shouldn't be forced, though, or you run the risk of becoming superficial and indulging in glamour as a way to prop up a sagging ego. First find the beauty inside yourself—it will shine through, no matter what you clothe it in on the outside.

Aug.09 – Mercury trine Jupiter (09:56 of Sign/Sign) (Aug.10 in AU)

This transit can make you quite talkative and flooded with ideas, along with those around you. Your stream of consciousness can flow abundantly with optimism and visionary possibilities. Write down your best ideas for later development, since you may be having too much fun now playing with ideas to want to stop and make them manifest just yet. Your outlook is usually optimistic and open-minded under this transit, although it might simply neutralize an already pessimistic frame of mind. You are likely to be more open to spiritual or philosophical perspectives, being more able to see yourself as part of something greater than yourself. You might even find that luck comes your way because you are more receptive to opportunities and possibilities.

Aug.10 – Mercury opposite Chiron (12:46 of Leo/Aquarius) (Aug.11 in UK, AU)

You could experience extra sensitivity, compassion or sympathy toward the problems and suffering of others under this transit. One possibility is that you encounter more people than usual who are struggling with problems that are brought to your attention. Another possibility is that you might be on the receiving end of the results of their suffering -- for example, if someone takes out their frustration or discouragement on you. Yet another option is that you may encounter others who are sensitive to and able to offer help for your own ongoing problems and struggles. You may be in a special position to have insight into the problems of others, or they into yours. Exchange of information, experiences, ideas and theories could be useful. You might also experience a difficult interaction with someone that raises an old issue about style of communication (for example, words might be spoken with good intentions that instead cause hurt). This is a good time to listen and observe, and you might catch a glimpse of some ironic or paradoxical truth.

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Next Update:  NEW MOON in LEO - August 12, 2007 (Aug.13 in UK, AU). Available by Aug.12.

 

© 2007 Wendy Guy. All rights reserved. This material may not be copied without the author's written permission. Moon picture courtesy of NASA

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