Category Archives: Full Moon

Full Moon in Libra, March 29-30

Full Moon in Libra

© Jaroslaw Grudzinski/Dreamstime.com

One month ago, just before the Full Moon in Virgo, a mega-quake struck Chile. There have been aftershocks daily as the Earth adjusts to the new alignment.

Our personal lives are undergoing a series of shifts and aftershocks, too. Monday’s Full Moon at 9 degrees Libra is the culmination of a cycle of readjustment as we leave behind old ways of being and doing so that we can move ahead into new territory.

This Full Moon and the New Moon in Aries on April 14 mark the halfway point between eclipses in Capricorn and Cancer, and we’re at a critical turning point. With the Moon in Libra opposite the Sun in Aries, our main focus will be on how we balance our own needs with those of others. This is never easy, particularly if you have been raised to put others before yourself.

Many of us are rethinking the load we’re carrying and how much additional weight we can support when others don’t do their part. How willing are we to keep doing a job that’s not ours? This could apply to picking up someone else’s dirty socks, constantly bailing out financially irresponsible relatives, or, for that matter, bailing out banks with our tax dollars. At some point, we just can’t do it anymore.

Women of my generation were raised to put husband, kids, boyfriends, boss, and everyone but themselves first. Old patterns don’t change overnight, but there will be some reckoning on this count, thanks to Venus, the ruler of the Full Moon, in me-first Aries. Admittedly, she’s not at her best in Aries, precisely because the divine feminine she represents is expected to be soft, sweet, conciliatory, and other-oriented. Well, forget that!

At the same time, Mars, ruler of Aries, is in ego-centered Leo. Now, Leos, don’t take offense. As I wrote in my weekly forecast, there’s nothing wrong with a healthy ego, and that’s part of my point here. A strong sense of self is prerequisite to so many things in life, and it can make relationships a lot easier when you directly tell others what you want and need. That doesn’t mean you’ll get it, but at least you’ll be clear about why you’re fighting. People often don’t want to be direct about their needs because they fear confrontation.

You probably won’t be able to avoid conflict right now, so you might as well speak up for yourself. The Sun and Moon are in a cardinal T-square with Pluto, and retrograde Saturn is part of this configuration, too. I’ve written a lot about the changes coming as a result of this T-square, and change simply can’t happen without conflict. Globally, conflicts are heating up and moving toward a boiling point in the next few months.

For now, though, we’re attempting to restore some semblance of balance after being knocked off our feet. Make that your goal between now and the New Moon in Aries, when new directions will be more apparent. We’ll need to be ready to hit the ground running and change on a dime.

One last consideration is that Venus and communications planet Mercury are in a close sextile with Neptune and Chiron in Aquarius, reinforcing the message that the way to deep healing is by communicating your needs and desires. Again, it doesn’t mean you’ll get everything you want, but you certainly won’t get it if you don’t ask.

The Sabian symbol* for the Moon at 9°17″ Libra is a canoe approaching safety through dangerous waters, with the keyword COMPETENCY. Simply put, the more you go through challenging situations, the better you get at handling them.

For the Sun at 9°17″ Aries, the Sabian symbol is a man teaching new forms for old symbols, with the keyword INTERPRETATION. Ancient wisdom isn’t written in stone, but is subject to continual reinterpretation as humanity evolves and expands in conscious awareness. And what we believe deeply impacts how we connect with the world and everyone in it. Changing our fundamental beliefs is part of the global shift that’s taking place.

Wishing you all fearless love,
Aquarius, the sign of astrologyPat

* From The Sabian Symbols in Astrology, by Dr. Marc Edmond Jones. The author, an astrologer, channeled this work in the early 1920s. There’s one symbol one for each degree of the zodiac, and we can use them to gain insight into charts.

Full Moon in Virgo, February 28, 2010

Jupiter conjoins the Sun in Pisces at 9° 58′ on the Full Moon February 28, encouraging everyone to think big and sending our imaginations into overdrive. We may all be very, very thankful for the Moon in pragmatic, well-grounded Virgo by the time the influence of this lunation passes.

The Sabian symbol for 10 Pisces fits quite well, “an aviator in the clouds.” Transcendence, peace and love are marvelous ideals, but even better if applied with large doses of common sense. Otherwise we risk being lost in the clouds.

We can draw on the duality of the Sabian symbol for the Moon at 10 Virgo, “two heads looking out and beyond the shadows,” for help. But here again there is a possibility of not seeing clearly, because Mercury, Virgo’s ruler, is in Aquarius, closely conjunct Neptune and Chiron. It will not be easy to find true perspective now, so we may be better served by writing down our best ideas to implement at a later date.

There is help available for those who wish to keep their feet firmly planted on terra firma in the form of Pluto in Capricorn. Pluto is sextile the Sun and trine the Moon, offering organizational skills and a willingness to explore all aspects, both dark and light, of any given situation or problem. In fact, the help Pluto offers can be invaluable for laying the groundwork for future projects, translating the heady atmosphere into concrete results over time.

Venus in Pisces is closing on a conjunction with Uranus in Pisces, which will be exact on March 3. Hang onto the remnants of your sanity, because this combo is perfect for “love at first sight” — or, more accurately in my opinion, lust at first sight, since genuine love tends to develop over time as we get to know and appreciate the other person. There will be even more illusions and expectations than usual hanging around on this Full Moon, because the Venus-Uranus conjunction is also semi-sextile Neptune, Pisces’ ruler. Makes me very glad to be old and very married . . . argh!

Keep in mind that Mars in Leo is slowing down in preparation to station direct on March 10, and frustration levels will be rising all over the place. Saturn in Libra, also retrograde, will offer assistance in managing increasing stress levels via a sextile to Mars. Please do your best to think before you launch attacks or get behind the wheel of your vehicle. Patience is needed over the next several weeks, and it is likely to be in short supply.

This lunation offers an interesting mix of pure, unadulterated romance and high-minded ideals, with an undertow of the deeply practical approach. My thought is this: It is a great opportunity to draw down creative inspiration and ideas and take plenty of notes for the future. Once the shine has worn off either your red-hot romance or that totally brilliant idea, then it will be possible to decide whether it is worth running with. In other words, enjoy the moment but don’t sign on the dotted line.

We need to practice patience, being kind to all we interact with and taking time to find beauty in our daily routines. Be well.

Libra always seeks balanceposted by Diane . . .

Image: Seeing the Full Moon against the trees is very appropriate for a Full Moon in tree loving Virgo.

Full Moon in Leo, January 29-30, 2010

After the intensity of the past two eclipses, the Full Moon at 10°14′ Leo on January 29 will be much easier to live with (January 30 in the Eastern Hemisphere).

The chart for this lunation has three main conversations – one between the Moon conjunct Mars in Leo opposing the Sun conjunct Venus in Aquarius, Jupiter in Pisces sextile Pluto in Capricorn, and Saturn in Libra exactly squaring Pluto. Mercury in Capricorn, Neptune in Aquarius, and Uranus in Pisces form only minor aspects and are content to mutter quietly in the background.

I find it amusing the way Venus and Mars are aligned with the Sun and Moon. Ultimately, they balance each other out nicely. Traditionally, Venus and the Moon have more in common, as both are more receptive in nature, while Mars and the Sun are both more assertive and outgoing.

On one hand, pairing Venus with the Sun in cool, cerebral Aquarius tones down the exuberance of Sol, ruler of Leo, and gives Venus a decidedly independent streak. On the other, Mars in Leo is still retrograde, reducing his normal force and bluster to a whisper for now, making it much easier for him to find common ground with the Moon, whose normal fluidity is firmed up in fixed, fiery Leo.

What this gives us is better-than-normal opportunities to sit down with partners of all types and work out any issues creating problems. Our differences will be easier to define under the brilliant light of the Full Moon, and since the atmosphere is less divisive than usual, we stand a better chance of finding points of compromise.

Be warned, though, it is essential to be as honest and equitable as possible, because the second of three squares between Saturn in Libra and Pluto in Capricorn is exact on Sunday, January 31. I know I sound like a broken record on the subject, but right now unscrupulous behavior will bring us to grief in the end. Pluto does not take prisoners ever, and Saturn in Libra is backing him up on this. Consider what has and is happening to Capricorn Tiger Woods and his Capricorn wife, Elin, if you will.

Jupiter is now in Pisces and is making a waxing sextile to Pluto in Capricorn. This aspect softens the edges and introduces a deeper sense of compassion and caring to the collective than we have experienced in awhile. I am still maintaining a “wait and see” approach to Jupiter in Pisces, because Pisces is very good at faking us out – it is a much more powerful sign than it is often given credit for. Think oceans and tsunamis . . .

Mercury in Capricorn is semi-sextile the Sun and Venus in Aquarius and seems very intent on catching up on the backlog left from the days it was retrograde. Mercury ruled types like Virgos and Geminis are very busy right now from what I’m hearing. Even after Mercury moves into Aquarius, the first thing it will do is trine Saturn in Libra – taking care of business will still be in order.

As for the ongoing mutual reception between Neptune in Aquarius and Uranus in Pisces, it does provide an excellent backdrop for the Sabian symbol of 11 Aquarius, “During a silent hour, a man receives a new inspiration which may change his life.” If we take time to quiet our minds each day, we can tap into the rich world of the imagination to renew our creativity.

For the Moon, the Sabian symbol is 11 Leo, “Children play on a swing hanging from the branches of a huge oak tree.” What a wonderful image to inspire us to take time to play and renew our acquaintance with what it means to be joyous. I don’t know about anyone else, but I’m ready for a break from the intensity of the past month or so.

Take time to laugh and play with family and friends on this Full Moon, if you can. Sharing joy heals places within ourselves that we often didn’t even realize needed it.

Libra always seeks balanceposted by Diane . . .

Cancer Full Moon Lunar Eclipse, December 31, 2009

The Full Moon on December 31, 2009, is momentous. At 10° 14′ Cancer, it’s the first of two eclipses in the Cancer-Capricorn series that began last July. It’s also the second Full Moon this month, making it a rare “blue moon.”

The T-square formed by the Moon in Cancer opposite the Sun, Venus, and Pluto in Capricorn, all square Saturn in Libra, speaks to me of the need for civility. Coincidentally, our local newspaper had a very good editorial on Christmas Day on sharing the gift of civility. It is important to note that as long as Saturn is in Libra, we will be returning again and again to this theme, particularly during periods when Capricorn is heavily represented in the sky, as it is now.

Libra and Capricorn may not agree on everything, but they both favor good manners and treating others with respect. Keep in mind that we don’t have to like someone in order to deal with them politely and respectfully. Skilled mediators and negotiators, both occupations ruled by Libra, know the value of good manners in creating a neutral atmosphere. It is much easier to shift from neutral to favorable than from hostile to favorable.

Saturn in Libra squaring the Moon in Cancer is far more likely to squelch emotional displays than promote them. In fact, with the majority of the planets in earth and air, the emphasis is on the practical and rational, for a change. Those who do have public meltdowns may be surprised at how little sympathy they will receive. Earth signs in general and Capricorns in particular tend to regard over-the-top behavior, especially publically, as self-indulgent . . . another sign the party is over for the year!

The retrograde pair, Mercury in Capricorn and Mars in Leo, is closely inconjunct at this time. Inconjunct signs are 150° apart and usually have little common ground, making meaningful dialogue between them difficult, to say the least. Fiery Leo, who loves nothing better than being the center of attention, is viewed by cautious, disciplined Capricorn with deep reservations. The retrograde factor means we need to double-check our facts, have all our papers in order, and be prepared for delays times two. If there ever was a time when pushing for a fast resolution is bound to backfire, this is it.

Jupiter is pulling away from Neptune and Chiron in Aquarius, and I’m feeling the sensation of a balloon slowly deflating, gradually sinking back to earth. For once the Aquarius stellium is not the headline, only making a semi-sextile to Uranus in Pisces with no strong aspects to the inner planets. Perhaps this is contributing to an overall feeling of a deep shift in the collective. At this point, it is not obvious exactly what this entails, just that it is happening.

For the Moon, the Sabian symbol of 11 Cancer is, “a clown caricaturing well-known personalities.” Learning to laugh first at our own absurdities and then recognizing that all people have their own leads to the understanding that despite traditions, no one person really is better than another.

“Pheasants display their brilliant colors on a private estate” is the Sabian symbol for the Sun at 11 Capricorn. To quote Robert Green Ingersoll: Few rich men own their own property. The property owns them. There is beauty to be found everywhere if we have the eyes to see it, not just tucked away for a privileged few.

I wish to urge everyone to start practicing treating others with respect, paying attention, speaking kindly, remembering to say “please and thank you,” listening carefully, and keeping your cool. The more of us who do this, the further the ripples will spread. It certainly can’t hurt!

Libra always seeks balanceposted by Neith . . .

Image: The stillness of the water in the protected pond is a sharp contrast to the rough waters behind it. May our homes be a safe haven from the turmoil of the outer world in just this way.

Full Moon in Gemini, December 1-2, 2009

dreamstime_5261083

If you feel like you are about to go into orbit, it could be due to a very energetic Full Moon at 10° 15′ Gemini on December 1 (December 2 in the Eastern Hemisphere). The majority of planets are in fire and air signs for a change, but it would behoove us to remember there is a darker undertow beneath that shiny surface.

Gemini’s ruler, Mercury, is in direct, outspoken Sagittarius closely sextile to Jupiter, Sagittarius’s ruling planet. Depending on your perspective, this aspect is either extremely creative and stimulating or full of hot air. That call I will be happy to leave up to everyone’s personal judgment. However, I do recommend taking time to check facts before taking action, because it is very easy for us to get ahead of ourselves under this very Jupitarian influence.

Since Neptune and Chiron in Aquarius are also exactly sextile to Mercury, we may have a realization slip into our conscious minds from below about an old source of pain and resentment, presenting an opportunity for healing. Another possible expression is seeing slights where none were intended and responding with harsh, wounding words, effectively alienating others.

Mars in fiery, outgoing Leo is further bumping up the desire to make a big splash one way or another. It forms a supportive trine to the Sun in Sagittarius and is sextile the Gemini Moon, encouraging fire and air signs in particular to get out and take advantage of various holiday gatherings. If you are out shopping for gifts, be aware it will be easy to spend too much, especially for glitz and glittery items. Otherwise this is a great aspect for throwing a grand party and having a great time.

There is one gentle sane note in this chart and that is Venus, newly arrived in Sagittarius, stabilized by a sextile to Saturn in equitable Libra. Saturn will help Venus maintain some decorum amidst all the hype and drama being generated now.

I would be remiss if I didn’t mention the party poopers: Mercury in Sagittarius square Uranus in Pisces and the ongoing Saturn in Libra square to Pluto in Capricorn.

Uranus turns direct at 22° 42′ Pisces a few hours before the Full Moon and forms a jarring square with Mercury in Sagittarius. Taking in consideration the already volatile sextile Mercury makes with Jupiter, the square from Uranus further increases the potential for jumping to unwarranted conclusions. Yes, it is always possible to use these potent energies in a conscious, helpful manner, but it will take focus and discipline. In other words, take extra care to express yourself in a thoughtful manner. Shooting from the hip could come back and bite you big time.

I am beginning to see the Saturn-Pluto square taking its toll in people’s lives and relationships. It is becoming clear our relationships are being tuned up, and where one person or the other has indulged in irresponsible behaviors, there is a very good chance that those relationships will come to an end. Pluto in Capricorn makes a very good executioner, too.

Clearly the Sabian symbol for the Full Moon of 11 Gemini, “Newly opened lands offer the pioneer new opportunities for experience,” reflects the exuberant sextile between Mercury in Sagittarius and Jupiter in Aquarius. We are drawn to seek new experiences and the excitement of going off the beaten track.

For the Sun in Sagittarius, the symbol is 11 Sagittarius, “In the left section of an archaic temple, a lamp burns in a container shaped like a human body.” This is a gentle reminder to take care of our bodies and treat them as “temples” that house our spirits.

With my Libra Moon conjoined Neptune in the eleventh house, I have learned to pay attention to my intuitive sense telling me what is out of balance in the collective as a whole. Libra is the sign of the scales, and many of us with a strong Libra signature in our charts automatically do what is necessary to restore equilibrium to any given situation. With the arrival of Saturn in Libra, there is a feeling of greater urgency about this mission.

When I am writing these posts on the lunations, I follow my intuition as to what to emphasize and seek to offer a balanced perspective. Writing about this Full Moon, it would have been easy to stick to a bright and cheerful message, but my inner voice was saying, “Don’t stop there. Remind people of the dark undercurrent out there we need to stay aware of.”

It is more important now than ever to interact with others in a kind and respectful manner. Doing otherwise holds the potential to backfire on us . . . badly. Spread thoughtfulness and love, not hate and dissension.

Libra always seeks balanceposted by Neith . . .

Full Moon in Taurus, November 2, 2009

Full Moon in TaurusThe Full Moon in Taurus on November 2 puts the focus back on the fixed signs, if only temporarily, reminding us what’s worth hanging onto and what we need to release as we head into a period with so much change.

At 10°30′ Scorpio-Taurus, the Sun and Moon form a tight T-square with Mars in Leo. Using a wide orb, we get fixed grand cross with Jupiter in Aquarius, underscoring the hazards of taking an ideological stance come what may.

The Sun in eagle-eyed Scorpio conjoins Mercury, and both are square Scorpio’s co-ruler, Mars. This can translate into potential explosions due to information being revealed by Scorpio’s innate ability to sniff out hidden secrets and nastiness.

The Moon is usually very comfortable in earthy Taurus, but here again, the square from Mars pushes buttons. While Taurus is generally known as easy going and good-natured, when the Bull gets mad, it takes a looong time to cool down. Keep in mind that all three of these signs are on the possessive side and given to occasional bouts of jealousy. In other words, this is a very bad moment to prod these folks, because you could find yourself amputated from their lives.

Thankfully, Venus rules this Full Moon, and she’s still in her other home sign, Libra, closely trine Neptune in Aquarius. We can use all the help we can get finding the compassionate compromise to smooth troubled waters. Venus is also trine Chiron in Aquarius, making it possible to see areas of vulnerability in others and stepping around them. Now is not a good time to use Mercury in Scorpio’s ability to pinpoint other’s weaknesses and exploit them.

Venus is also part of a Yod with Uranus in Pisces at the apex and Vesta in Leo as the other leg of the base. There is a purity of creative expression with Vesta in fiery Leo joined with Venus in Libra’s eye for balance and beauty. The challenge is channeling this through Uranus in Pisces. Pisces is very creative but in a Neptunian way – lovely, ethereal and none too focused. It may be better to write your inspirations down at this time and implement them when the fog lifts . . .

Perhaps the single most important astrological event in recent days is Saturn’s move into equitable Libra. The drawback is Saturn’s approach to an exact square with Pluto in Capricorn on November 15. We’re all going to need to play by the rules and be scrupulously honest in all our dealings. Any and all negotiations or mediations (Libra) that fail to meet these standards may result in unpleasant legal consequences (Saturn) – and we are just in the opening phase of this influence! The sooner this realization hits home, the better our chances will be of avoiding being brought to task by this dynamic pair. Make every effort to be open and fair in your dealings with partners, both personal and professional. Consider this your first warning!

The lovely trine between Venus and Neptune can be further illuminated by the Sabian symbol for the Moon at 11 Taurus, “A woman watering flowers in her garden,” with the keyword CULTIVATION. By nurturing the virtues of this trine – patience, tolerance and compassion – we stand a better chance of improving our relationships with others rather than destroying them.

The Sabian symbol for 11 Scorpio is both a warning and a solution – “A drowning man is being rescued,” with the keyword RESUSCITATION. The fixed grand cross is a deeply static pattern, and if we cling to a certain way of thinking and being, seeing it as the “only way,” we run the risk of drowning. In order to be rescued from ourselves, learning flexibility and staying open to other options may be required.

This is an excellent lunation for examining our belief structures and learning about those places where we are most emotionally invested in being right. Long experience with Pluto’s little ways of teaching us about letting go of expectations and detaching from outcomes leads me to encourage all those with planets and chart angles in the early degrees of the cardinal signs – Aries, Cancer, Libra and Capricorn – to use this time well. It is always better to get a jump on Pluto because if it’s left up to him, the lessons can be quite painful.

Libra loves beautyposted by Neith . . .

Full Moon in Aries, October 3-4, 2009

Full Moon Over Mount Baker, Photo by James A. Weythman
The Full Moon in Aries on October 4 (late October 3 in western time zones) likely will have more of an effect on our personal lives rather than impacting the collective, as lunations over the past many months have done.

I, for one, am thankful for that.

The third exact opposition of Saturn and Uranus is behind us, and Mercury is now direct, picking up speed. Hopefully most of us will begin to see a lightening in the atmosphere and make better choices about where we need to go next. Just being able to get on with our daily lives with less drama would be very welcome.

At 11°10′ Libra and Aries, neither the Sun nor Moon forms close aspects to other planets. This will allow us to focus on the classic Venus-Mars relationship of Aries and Libra. It is much easier to see how the dynamic of “do it my own self” Mars-ruled Aries works with Libra, which is ruled by graceful Venus and focuses on the other.

I live with this every day, because I’m a Libra Sun-Moon woman married to an Aries Sun-Moon man. We have learned the fine art of compromise over the years – essential to any good relationship. The key is understanding what is important to us as individuals (Aries) while recognizing when to place the needs of the other first (Libra).

It is through their rulers, Mars and Venus, that the luminaries are connected to the outer planets and the big picture. Mars in Cancer forms an inconjunct (or quincunx) with Neptune in Aquarius, and Venus in Virgo is inconjunct Jupiter in Aquarius. Even though Jupiter is no longer close enough to be considered conjoined with Neptune, this is still a powerful point in the sky.

On one hand, Mars is just not a happy camper in watery, often insular Cancer, and being drawn into dialogue with Aquarius via the inconjunct makes him even unhappier. Cancer and Aquarius need a mediator to find common ground, because their immediate concerns are so different. Cancer is the sign most involved with home and family matters, while Aquarius represents the collective and what is best for the many. We may find ourselves wrangling over these very issues if either or both of these signs are prominent in our charts.

On the other hand, Venus is not all that comfortable in earthy Virgo, either, compromising her normal enthusiasm for getting together with Jupiter. Practical Virgos everywhere are going to be having long discussions with progressive Aquarians about the bottom line. Jupiter in Aquarius is often the author of the unfunded mandate, both personally and collectively. It can go like this: “Just how do you expect to pay for that??? Yes, I understand it will benefit the majority in the long run . . . but!”

Mercury in Virgo is opposing Uranus in Pisces on the Full Moon while gaining on Saturn for one last meeting before moving back into Libra on October 9. We may get another not-so-gentle reminder to take care of details we’ve been procrastinating about since the beginning of September. We’re not going to get away this time, so buckle down and do it!

Uranus in Pisces is tightly semi-sextile Neptune in Aquarius and for many people around the world, being connected to the Internet in one way or another is part of our daily lives – a clear demonstration of the mutual reception between Neptune and Uranus. Of course, the greatest challenge is often sorting fact from fiction, always an issue when Neptune is present.

Pallas just entered fair-minded Libra and promptly squares Pluto in Capricorn at the Full Moon. Take advantage of this moment of enforced clarity to look around for harbingers of what’s to come in the months and years ahead. The big eye-opener will come with Uranus moving into Aries at the end of May 2010.

I find it curious that the Sabian symbol for 12 Aries is “A flock of wild geese,” with the keyword COSMIC ORDER. I see this more as a reminder of the very Libran idea of everyone taking a turn being the leader. Aries can get so caught up in the notion that if they don’t take charge, nothing will get done. They can forget how different leadership styles can successfully motivate different individuals.

The image of “Miners emerging from a deep coal mine” for 12 Libra is equally powerful. We can use the meaning of the keyword, EXTRACTION, to understand the importance of bringing new realizations from the depths of our inner selves. This Sabian symbol can also mean we have earned a respite from striving.

Sitting down with our significant others, friends and partners of all kinds is a good way to take advantage of this particular Full Moon, because our differences as individuals are highlighted. Sometimes it takes recognition of those differences to see our commonalities in a new way and accept the idea we don’t always have to agree to get along. Here’s to gaining greater understanding of the importance of agreeing to disagree – a very Libra concept.

Libra seeks balanceposted by Neith . . .

Image: Full Moon over Mount Baker, October 2007. Photo by James A. Weythman, reprint by permission only.

Full Moon in Pisces, September 4, 2009

Full Moon in PiscesAfter the drama of the past couple months due in large part to three eclipses, the mild-mannered Full Moon at 12°15′ Pisces on Friday promises to be much easier to live with.

Yes, there are a couple of sticky places – like Mercury stationing retrograde in Libra a couple of days after the Full Moon, and Mars in Cancer squaring Mercury, promoting yelling matches. But given the Pisces propensity for avoiding confrontation and encouraging good will, we may be able to slide on through without making too many waves. I don’t know about anyone else, but I can sure use a little peace and tranquility!

The Full Moon is also the apex of a Yod with charming Venus in Leo sextile Ceres in Venus-ruled Libra. It is the nature of Yods to create a certain amount of tension, pushing at us to stretch ourselves. However, this one is about as gentle a combination as I’ve seen. If there is a better time to make plans to spend time in a tropical paradise, sipping those delightful fruity drinks with umbrellas, listening to the surf washing up on the sand, I don’t know when it would be. Venus in Leo just loves a party and Ceres is willing to attend as long as it’s in a beautiful natural setting while the light of the Full Moon is so flattering to everyone. Most of us can’t begin to afford a vacation in a tropical paradise, but we can create a comfortable, relaxing atmosphere with a little ingenuity. Fresh flowers for Ceres, lovely scented candles for Venus in Leo, and fine potables for Pisces will do the trick.

We were introduced last week to the effect of Mars in Cancer squaring Mercury in Libra as part of a T-square with Pluto. For some, this T-square was very irritating, but for many others it turned out to be the key to breaking out of a period of extended stasis.

Unless you enjoy heated exchanges, steer clear of confrontation, because it won’t take much to set people off right now. People with planets or chart angles in early degrees of the cardinal signs – Aries, Cancer, Libra, and Capricorn – have short fuses at this time. Please sharpen your listening skills and practice speaking clearly, because the pervasive impatience is creating severe interference. We have all had the experience of attempting to communicate with someone who is obviously thinking about what they are going to say and not listening. That’s a pretty good description of a cardinal Mercury being squared by Mars!

Since Pat has a great post on the Saturn-Uranus opposition, I am going take a look at another aspect Saturn is making now – an inconjunct with Neptune in Aquarius. Imagine Saturn in Mercury ruled Virgo doggedly repeating himself in an effort to get his point across, while Neptune in Aquarius is saying, “I don’t care about the darn details, just the big picture. It’s the collective that’s important, not individuals.”

Both Aquarius and Virgo offer valuable contributions to humanity, but the manner they go about it is decidedly different. Detail-oriented, earthy Virgo tends to focus on what’s in front of them, while visionary, airy Aquarius is looking out for the collective as a whole. Read the headlines, and you’ll see this dynamic everywhere right now. Speaking from a Libra perspective, my suggestion is to table important discussions for now, if possible, and take them up after Saturn moves into Libra at the end of October. Hey, it’s highly likely there will be no resolution until then, anyway.

Juno in Aries is making a waxing square to Pluto in Capricorn. All I can say is that if you are in a committed relationship, don’t be surprised if power struggles emerge. In Aries, Juno can be quite headstrong and insistent on doing things her way, and we already know about Pluto in Capricorn’s firm belief that he is the ultimate authority. To avoid sleeping on the couch, seek a compromise both of you can live with.

The Sabian symbol for the Sun at 13 Virgo is, “A powerful statesman overcomes a state of political hysteria,” with the keyword CHARISMA. This corresponds well to the inconjunct between Jupiter in Aquarius and Pallas in Virgo. Pallas is capable of dispassionate insight and applying what she has discerned in an extremely effective manner. In this case, she uses her gifts on behalf of charismatic Jupiter, who needs help in presenting his message to the masses as clearly as possible in order to turn the situation around. This is a hopeful note in a polarized environment.

If we are willing to explore nonviolent means to resolve our differences, we can draw inspiration from the Sabian symbol for the Moon at 13 Pisces: “An ancient sword, used in many battles, is displayed in a museum,” with the keyword WILLPOWER. Pisces generally prefers to avoid combative encounters and often has learned to yield from a position of strength, no longer needing to use the sword to cut opponents down to get their point across.

With Mercury just about to go retrograde for the rest of September, it is my recommendation to step aside from opportunities to engage our opponents and celebrate this Full Moon in gentle Pisces by setting aside time for quiet reflection in as beautiful a setting as you can find. Many of us need time to recover from the turmoil of eclipse season and are in no shape to launch into another battle, further depleting our reserves. Be kind to yourself and others, as always.

Libra seeks balanceposted by Neith . . .

Full Moon Lunar Eclipse in Aquarius, August 5-6, 2009

Full Moon in AquariusThe lunar eclipse at 13°43′ Aquarius on August 5 (August 6 in the Eastern Hemisphere) is the last in the Aquarius-Leo series, which began in February 2008. This eclipse promises to bring resolution to matters related to the areas in our charts these eclipses have activated, and one way or another, pleasant or not, this is the final hurrah.

The main feature in this chart is the Full Moon, with the Sun in Leo and the Moon in Aquarius. The only aspect to the luminaries is a benign waning aspect from Mars in Gemini. Because the luminaries are not tied in to the rest of the eclipse chart in a major way, all of the energy of the eclipse is contained and tightly focused for maximum effect. My sense is if either the Sun or Moon conjoins a planet or angle in your chart, you will know it.

Moving outward from the Sun, we find Mercury happily in analytical Virgo, one of the two signs he rules, conjunct Pallas. This combination offers clarity and precision. Pallas is the quintessential organizer, and Virgo is a very comfortable place for this cerebral asteroid. If you need help tackling some long overdue project requiring patience and clarity of thought, these two are there to help, since Virgo is happiest when being of service to others.

Venus in Cancer is recovering from her opposition to Pluto in Capricorn, and a sextile from the Mercury-Pallas conjunction is supporting that recovery. The first thing that popped into my head was that this is a perfect time to get down and seriously reorganize closets and junk drawers! Digging into paperwork related to your home and family also is favored.

The opposition from Venus to Pluto could have pried loose old memories from childhood that need to be released to the higher good. Plus, we are all still reeling from the two eclipses in Cancer and Capricorn and could use the nurturance offered by Venus in Cancer right now.

A note of frustration is brought to the table by Mars in a waxing square to Saturn in Virgo. The upside is that Mars is moves quickly, and this will not be a long-lasting event. The downside is that disagreements could quickly degenerate into slanging matches with the square in mutable Gemini and Virgo, both of whom prefer words as weapons.

Ceres has just found her way into Libra and is exactly square Pluto in Capricorn. Since Ceres is the goddess who forced Pluto to deal with her as an equal, this is an interesting exchange and a prelude to what we can anticipate when Saturn enters Libra in late October. Ceres in Libra is focused on helping us develop a cooperative attitude and a willingness to share in an equitable manner, while Pluto in Capricorn is more interested in the bottom line. I definitely get a sense we will be seeing power struggles along those lines emerging within the collective over the next month or so.

This lunation marks the gradual end of the influence of the stellium of Neptune, Chiron and Jupiter in Aquarius and the reemergence of the next Saturn-Uranus opposition, which will take place on September 15 at 24° Virgo-Pisces. As Jupiter pulls away from Neptune, I am inclined to believe we will start waking up and realizing the extent to which we were basing our decisions on wishful thinking rather than hard facts. Naturally, this will be a painful period for many as reasons returns and the need to make serious adjustments in priorities emerges.

As for Saturn and Uranus, Mars in Gemini will square both of those between now and the New Moon in Leo on August 20. It wouldn’t be a bad idea to take note of what issues are front and center during this time.

The Sabian symbols for this lunation offer hope for an opportunity to make a leap forward now. The symbol for the Sun at 14 Leo is, “a human soul seeking opportunities for outward manifestation,” with the keyword INGENUOUSNESS. For the Moon at 14 Aquarius, the symbol is “a train entering a tunnel,” with the keyword COURTESY. Staying present and focusing on behaving with kindness and consideration toward others as well as ourselves appears to be the best option.

We need to take time to live consciously more than ever now and to avoid acrimonious exchanges where there are no winners. Ralfee Finn offers this advice, and I concur: The antidote is simple – refuse to engage in any mean-spirited, harsh, or brutal behavior. Period. But applying this remedy will take a deep commitment to conscious living.

Libra seeks balanceposted by Neith . . .

**Please read Pat’s weekly forecast for this week, August 3, for her thoughts this week’s lunar eclipse.

Image:  I felt this dramatic photo suited this Full Moon on the Leo-Aquarius axis.

Full Moon in Capricorn, Lunar Eclipse, July 7, 2009

Lunar Eclipse over NorwayThe essence of any Full Moon is the opposition – two signs in compatible elements and on opposite sides of the zodiac. On this Full Moon, the Sun is in watery Cancer opposing the Moon in the feminine earth sign of Capricorn, drawing attention to the need to balance what nurtures us with our public life.

For some reason Capricorn has become associated with the need for dominance and competition, especially in the professional arena. But there is another side to this pragmatic sign, much deeper and wilder and intensely creative. There is an earthy, passionate sensuality with the ability to throw aside constraints and abandon oneself to the pursuit of pleasure beneath the conventional, pin-striped suits. If you are familiar with the many faces of David Bowie, he is a great example of this complex sign.

Just as Capricorn is more than a stuffed shirt, so is Cancer more than a moody homebody. Cancer hides many treasures behind its protective shell, often including a sharp sense of humor as well as a sensitive soul. Capricorn is clearly a cardinal sign but so is Cancer. If you have friends and family with a strong Cancer signature, pay attention to how persistent they can be in getting their way.

For those of us like myself who have planets or angles at 14-17° in Aries, Cancer, Libra, or Capricorn, the extra punch of the lunar eclipse will zap us awake! Check to see where the Cancer-Capricorn axis falls in your chart and take note of events both leading up to this lunation as well as the weeks following it. Eclipses have a broader impact than most lunations.

Saturn in Virgo plays a supporting role to the Sun and Moon, because it is trine to the Moon and sextile the Sun. We could miss the importance of this support because of the flowing nature of those aspects, so pay attention to any opportunities offering advancement. Saturn is playing nice right now and suggesting rather than demanding. The next Saturn-Uranus opposition on September 15 will be far less kind.

Venus has moved into Gemini and is pulling away from Mars, who is still in Taurus. However, she is not a happy camper, because Pluto in Capricorn is holding her accountable via an inconjunct. This is another lesson in learning what we truly value. Pluto is not about to let up on teaching everyone about living a frugal lifestyle. Think Bernie Madoff settling into his new accommodations for the rest of his life.

But it is Mars in practical, well-grounded Taurus squaring Neptune & Co. that could bring people sharply down to earth once more. There are many folktales teaching the importance of making sure a good, solid foundation is in place before building. If there is a weak point (Chiron) we ignored in the pursuit of our dreams (Jupiter-Neptune), it has either already brought the house of cards down or will soon. Now is a good time to take advantage of the clarity offered by this square and the supportive sextile between Mars and Uranus in Pisces, to repair and rebuild. If the new foundation is done right, there is a much greater chance of achieving your hopes and dreams.

There is no fire in this chart. The preponderance is strongly in earth and water, with just a small leavening of air. Using confrontational tactics and throwing out demands will not be as effective as spending time listening closely to what others are saying. The Sabian symbol for the Sun at 16 Cancer, A man studying a mandala in front of him, with the help of a very ancient book, with the keyword CONCENTRATION, supports this notion.

For the Moon at 16 Capricorn, the Sabian symbol reminds us to take time to play well with others: School grounds filled with boys and girls in gymnasium suits. The keyword is EXERCISE. Take a walk with friends in the park to regroup before heading back to the drawing board.

If there ever was a time for identifying and clearing out emotional baggage, this lunar eclipse is it. Shine a light into all the hidden corners of your psyche and haul out the garbage to throw away. If you have a favorite cleansing ritual, use it extensively. We are halfway through the period between the first New Moon in Cancer and the second one, a solar eclipse, on July 21-22. Saturn is in a great position now to help with this project, too.

Please remember to be kind to yourself and especially to your nearest and dearest, as those are the folks we most often take out our angst on. These are tough times for many people, and it is by paying kindness ahead that we can all benefit.

Many blessings and good wishes to all.

Libra seeks balanceposted by Neith . . .

**Please read Pat’s weekly forecast for this week, July 6, for her thoughts this week’s eclipse.

Image: This beautiful photo was taken by Andreas D. Skjervold, Bodø, Norway on Aug. 16, 2008. It is one of several wonderful photos of eclipses at The Eclipse Photo Gallery website.