May 2012
“We cannot suspend our values during the workday and think we will have them when we get back home. We’re all interconnected. There is a spiritual dimension to business just as to individuals.” Ben Cohen and Jerry Greenfield.
The month of May holds significant planetary activity. For the first two weeks Venus slows down in preparation for the retrograde station on the 16th. Venus retrograde periods are a good time to review and reflect on our values.
The effects of the upcoming Solar eclipse on the 20th can be felt in the early part of the month as well. Eclipses open evolutionary doorways and their influence can be felt before and after the actual event.
May 1 – 5 – The month starts off under a dynamic trine in earth signs. Use this energy of the Sun/ Mars/Pluto trine to make significant headway with goals. This group of planets is powerful and lends energy, drive and ambition.
May 5 – The Full Moon at 16 degrees of Scorpio. This is a good time to revisit what it is we feel passionate about and ascertain whether the time and attention we give it is appropriate. It is best to remember that passions do run high under the Scorpio Moon and to be aware when driving and elsewhere that there can be an uptick of reckless or irrational behavior under this influence.
May 13- 16 - The Sun joins Jupiter the planet of hope and optimism as Mercury moves up to a trine to Pluto and Mars. This is a pragmatic and expansive combination – a very good time for making progress with endeavors and for social interaction.
May 16 – June 28 – Venus retrograde. Venus stations retrograde at 23 degrees of Gemini on May 16. This retrograde period provides good timing to review issues related to self esteem and self image and how these beliefs correlate to the way we live and want to live. As Venus is in Gemini it is also a good time period to review how we use and direct mental energy – and whether customary thinking patterns facilitate growth in a positive direction or place obstacles in the path.
Venus will station retrograde while in aspect to Saturn and this brings up issues related to values and the appropriateness of commitments we are involved in. It is a good time to review how relationships influence our sense of self esteem and can influence our values.
Venus will station direct in late June. In general Venus retrograde periods are best used for rethinking and reviewing rather than initiating. Relationships – personal and professional born under this influence often do not last. Sometimes old lovers can resurface under this aspect as well.
There is a solar eclipse on the New Moon May 20 at 0 degrees of Gemini.
May 23 – May 30 – During this time frame the influence of Neptune the planet of dreams and visions is strong in the sky. This is best used for creative visualization spiritual growth. It can make things other than what they seem. If possible it is best to avoid making serious legal agreements or making major purchases under this influence.
Quote from Divine Sparks by Karen Speerstra
All times mentioned EDT.
April 2012
“The question is not who is better or more honest, but who will gain more freedom from all fear, who will gain the peace and joy the masters have spoken of.”
– George Fowler
As Mars prepares to station direct mid month, the first two weeks provide an excellent review period about personal empowerment and self esteem. During the retrograde period (since January 24) any obstacles encountered are best seen as a heads up to develop more awareness about how we customarily use our power and what our expectations are about that process. It has been a good time to look at how we create what we desire and to upgrade any assumptions or approaches we have outgrown.
Through midmonth is also a good time to look what role confusion, helplessness or a sense of victimhood have in our relationship to personal power. We live in a time when victimhood can seem to surround us in the world – even the people in power seem helpless. It is better not to buy into this kind of unhealthy paradigm but to look at what is falling away in our perceptions and in our lives which enables us to live from a more healthy and empowered perspective.
Venus enters Gemini on the third making the beginning of the month a good time for socializing – particularly after Mercury stations direct on the 4th.
The Moon waxes full on the 6th in Libra. This could be a romantic and sentimental time for relationships. Neptune does blur the lines between illusion and reality so enjoy the moment but it is best not to make any serious long term relationship decisions under this influence.
The Sun will be opposing Saturn from the 7th through the 19th. Use this time to execute plans and be pragmatic. Goals will be met through perseverance and persistence. Obstacles can occur during this time – make sure to leave extra time to deal with them and keep the focus on the long term.
On the 10th Pluto stations retrograde and on the 13th Mars stations direct. This is powerful planetary energy and is good for hard work and accomplishment. It is important to get plenty of exercise around this time. Power struggles can arise more easily but it is best to stay focused on the tasks at hand.
A diplomatic approach to others is the best strategy throughout the month. Relationship issues can be on the front burner. We are living in a time of shifting paradigms which can be challenging for relationships with rigid dynamics or expectations as personal growth and development can rock the boat. Keep in mind- not all the information is in until the end of April.
The Sun enters Taurus on the 19th followed by the New Moon in Taurus on the 21st. The end of the month provides excellent timing for getting energized about new ideas and projects.
All times mentioned EDT. Sign up for Amelia’s astrology forecasts on her home page.
March 2012
“You never change things by fighting the existing reality. To change something build a new model that makes the existing model obsolete.” Buckminster Fuller
When I was new to the study of Astrology my sister called me and mentioned an intriguing, magical configuration in the sky that day – a mystic triangle. March does not include a mystic rectangle but the aspects are indeed magical and bode well for increased opportunities for expansion in the realms of work, finances, romance and creativity if we are open to them.
The beginning of the month (through the 7th) gets off to a serious start Mercury and Venus aspect Saturn. These aspects provide a good time to revisit and reprioritize values – to update ideas about what we seriously value in our lives now and to take steps to live more fully in that direction. It can be a time when it is easy to feel a lack of adequate resources or emotional support but it is best not to linger too long in a place of disempowerment. Instead take an inspired or innovative approach.
From the 7ththrough the 15ththere is a kite formation in the sky involving Jupiter, Pluto, Mars, Neptune, Venus and a number of asteroids. This is a very good configuration for hope and optimism and brings expansion and opportunity to the realms of work, finances, creativity, relationship and romance. Expansion may come in exciting or unexpected ways.
The Full Moon is on the 8that 18 degrees of Virgo.
Mercury stations retrograde on 3/12 at 6 degrees of Aries – close to the planet Uranus which governs the unexpected. There can be surprising realizations and revelations which occur under this retrograde period (through 4/1). Technology may be more impacted – it bodes well to make any necessary repairs before the station and provide good backup for information as well. Overall the theme of awakening – personal and planetary is very much in the forefront and events that occur are likely to be casting the light on paths we need to take and those we need to move away from to create a more healthy and sustainable future.
The Mercury retrograde will aspect Uranus nearly the entire month – through the 22nd. This is a high energy contact and can bring illuminations and revelations which can significantly alter our perceptions of the past and open a more dynamic path to the future. It is an aspect of the Higher Mind and off the grid intelligence.
It is good to provide extra restorative time all month for integration as well as accessing guidance from higher realms.
We are living in a time when transformation and evolution are on the table and like the Sixties – when Uranus and Pluto were also together in strong aspect- there is considerable resistance and backlash. It is best to focus on positive visions for the future – regardless of whether they are in the mainstream dialogue or not.
There have always been periods throughout history when evolutionary shifts have occurred and customary ways of doing business have been made irrelevant over night. We have seen this in our own time with the advances in technology and computers which have rendered time honored ways of operating obsolete in ways which could not have even have been described in centuries past.
There are ways that could vastly change and improve the ways we inhabit our lives now that we are not even aware of. It is a time of innovation and discovery.
The Vernal Equinox is 3/20 – the official start of Spring when the Sun enters Aries. The Sun at that powerful 0 degree point will be conjunct Uranus – continuing this theme of awakening. There can be sudden, unexpected events at this time – look for the underlying message about the future and what needs to be transformed.
The New Moon is on 3/22 at 2 degrees of Aries conjunct Uranus – boding well for intention setting about new endeavors. Dream big and be dynamic.
The end of the month provides a good time for spiritual growth and creative projects as Mercury moves into Pisces on 3/23.
February 2012
“It later became clear to me that no matter what we do in science or any other area, it will not help if we don’t find a way to be related to each other at a deep level.” David Bohm
One of the significant planetary events of February is Neptune’s transit into Pisces on Feb 3 – a sojourn that will last for roughly twelve years. Neptune the god of the sea rules the realm of dreams, of creativity, and of spirituality. It also rules addiction – often referred to as a derailed spiritual journey.
This placement historically has correlated with a time of spiritual growth and awareness. Creativity can flourish. Increased guidance will be available through intuitive channels and dreams.
It bodes well under this influence to take steps towards living a more inspired life.
Mars continues in retrograde motion in Virgo throughout the month. Examine the use of personal energy in your everyday life. Looks for ways to lessen stress, build strength and get tasks done with more harmony and efficiency. Set intentions for improvement.
Frustration and impatience can surface more easily with this Mars retrograde. As with all retrograde periods it is best to turn inward during this time rather than pushing too hard for progress in the outer world.
Testy relationship dynamics (in all types of relationships) are in play throughout the month and provide fertile ground to practice patience, compassion and understanding. A dash of humor can help also!
Through the 7th Venus and Mars the celestial lovers are opposed – friction, disagreements and irritability can arise with this influence.
Venus will move up to a conjunction with Uranus on 2/9. This is a highly charged energy and is known in individual charts for its love of freedom, innovation and for its strong willed nature. Difficulties can arise in relationship dynamics that feel too controlling or limited.
Love at first sight experiences or surprising and highly charged connections can occur under this aspect also. Just a word to a wise – very often relationships that start under this influence have a volatile or unpredictable nature to them.
The Full Moon is in Leo this month on 2/7. Saturn stations retrograde at 29 degrees of Libra on the day of the Full Moon. It is a good time to review the ways we have grown in the relationship sphere over the past two years – and to integrate any necessary lessons.
On the 8th Venus will move up to a square with Pluto. This aspect is associated with loss in love and can stir up concerns about not having what is needed in the areas of love, relationship and finances. It can also bring up issues related to control and power. Use the creative tension of this aspect for letting go of outmoded ideas about love, security and stability.
The New Moon is 2/21 at 2 degrees of Pisces – a very good time to access guidance from higher planes and set new intentions.
The Sun will enter Pisces on 2/19 aspecting Pluto and Jupiter. This will usher in a more expansive time.
All times mentioned are EST. Quotes from Divine Sparks by Karen Spreerstra.
January 2012
“Let it grow, let it grow
Let it blossom, let it flow
In the sun, the rain, the snow …
Plant your love and let it grow” Eric Clapton
Well here we are in 2012. Welcome to a very transformative time on planet Earth.
The month of January is a fertile time for sowing the seeds of intention and fortifying tender shoots. Be very clear and be open to affirmations. Endeavors which involve transformation and innovation will receive support.
It is a good month to examine daily routines and how they contribute to or detract from the ongoing creation of good health. Identify unproductive habits related to work, lifestyle, diet and move in a more vibrant direction. Apply innovative approaches and methods.
When frustrations occur or tempers flare, regard it as an opportunity to interact in a new way rather than automatically responding with an old perspective.
Significant time frames and dates for the month:
The Full Moon falls on 1/9 at 18 degrees of Cancer. This Moon is related to the recent eclipses in Cancer and Capricorn. It involves the evolution of matters concerning home, family, ancestry, ancestral inheritance as well as the dream life and its correlation to the mundane world. Under the light of this full Moon it bodes well to contemplate these areas of life. It is a good time to ask for advice from ancestors.
January 8 – 14 Mercury will conjunct Pluto in Capricorn. It bodes well to think about how some traditional forms of thinking or being may no longer serve you and how you might organize your life to feel more effective and authentic.
From the 9th through the 18th Venus will conjunct Neptune. On the 14 Venus will enter Pisces and conjunct Chiron. This period is an excellent good time for spiritual and creative growth. Chiron’s involvement indicates that it is a good time to heal old wounds through forgiveness and a spiritual approach.
Mars stations retrograde on the 23 – more about this later.
A word about 2012- Author and Jungian analyst Clarissa Pinkola Estes has written about the importance of acknowledging the many small and large deaths which occur throughout our lifetimes. Not necessarily literal deaths – although that can pertain as well – but endings which are transformative in nature – small and large endings which hold the seeds of a new beginning. Births, graduations, marriage, divorce, job changes, moves – all these kinds of events represent the death of the old and herald the start of the new. This is what the aspects of 2012 – widely in effect through 2017 are about – a gate time which represents a significant time in personal and planetary evolution.
December ’11
“A rock pile ceases to be a rock pile the moment a person contemplates it, bearing within him the image of a cathedral.” Antoine de Saint Exupery
Astrological influences indicate that ideas can take root and move in into manifestation quickly these days so it bodes well to keep thoughts proactive and positive.
There is significant planetary activity in December indicating that the month is likely to hold more twists and turns than we normally anticipate. To minimize turbulence flexibility is key. Much is in flux and it is better to regard the passage through the month as an open ended education than a time of fixed ideas and expectations. Heed well the lessons learned this December because they can be valuable in the long term.
Make an extra effort to ensure communications are clear. Through mid month Mercury will be retrograde in Sagittarius and Mars will be retrograde in Virgo. When situations or communications go awry misunderstandings can arise more suddenly than usual and lead to criticism or conflict. It is best to regard situations like this as a riddle and ascertain where the loose strands lie, rather than taking a dogmatic or self righteous approach.
In early December Venus will move up to a conjunction with Pluto. Concerns about love, relationship, scarcity, finances and security can surface with more power than usual. It bodes well to avoid extremes in thinking or action under these influences and to keep balance and moderation in mind.
There is a Lunar Eclipse on Dec. 10 at 18 degrees of Gemini. Many options or ideas may present themselves all month long and it will be easy to get distracted and feel impatient. It bodes well to make an extra effort to concentrate and put off any important decisions until after Mercury stations direct on the 14th.
Uranus stations direct on the same day as the eclipse at 0 Aries- a powerful point in astrology for new beginnings. It is a good time to heed breakthroughs, and ideas that open doors into a more expansive future.
Mercury will station direct on Dec 14th clearing the way for improved communication and travel. It bodes well to revisit any adjustments in plans, concepts and ideas that occurred over the retrograde period (since late November.) and put them into action after the station.
Jupiter stations direct on Dec. 25 – boding well for celebrations – just watch for excess.
The Sun conjuncts Pluto on the 29th – making late December a very good time to process inner and outer changes which have transpired during 2011.
November ’11
“It is time we put our energy into fruitfully re-growing the Garden instead of fruitlessly scrapping over the scraps.” Swami Beyondananda
We are living in transformative times personally and collectively. We can see the big changes around us and in the world. For much of November Neptune’s influence is very strong. This provides very good timing to stay in touch with our highest aspirations for ourselves and the planet while keeping moderation in mind and in practice in our daily lives.
The planet Neptune is often strong in the charts of visionaries, artists and mystics making this month a very good one for spiritual and creative work. As Neptune transits the late degrees of Aquarius the time is right for collaboration. In collaborative projects it is best to focus on the common good rather than trying to draw lines in the sand about differences. Draw a wide circle about who can be involved and who can shoulder some of the weight. Collaborations which endeavor to bring about positive change will have the wind at their back.
It will be helpful month long to keep strong mental and emotional boundaries because Neptune’s illusory presence tends to dissolve form. It may look like a good time to dance the light fantastic – to go to extremes or get drawn into situations which look appealing but in the end could be disillusioning and unrealistic. It is best to proceed moderately and stick to a healthy, holistic daily rhythm.
In the beginning of the month Venus will move into fiery Sagittarius and trine Uranus through the 10th. This is the love at first sight aspect and has a very electrical quality to it. It can be a time when relationships that have been unable to move forward do so suddenly- thanks to the ardor and daring nature of the fiery element. Mercury will move into the fiery trine also making this a good time to heed innovative and out of the box thinking. Mercury /Uranus aspects are known for instant knowing and off the grid brilliance.
Jupiter’s influence – providing hope, optimism and energy- will be in play the 10th through the 25th. This bodes well for projects that require physical energy. It is also a good time for fun and socializing. Watch for overindulgence with Jupiter’s love of excess!
Mercury stations retrograde on the 24th at 20 degrees of Sagittarius. It is quickly followed by the solar eclipse on the 25 which is at 2 degrees of Sagittarius. For a couple of weeks before and after eclipses, time can feel wobbly or distorted. This is more likely this month with the strong Neptune influence and the Mercury station.
At the time of the eclipse Venus will be entering the Pluto/Uranus square – the revolutionary aspect of our time. This may present challenges in relationships regarding the transformation and evolution of old patterns. Other aspects indicate volatility. Take extra time and care to ensure that communications are clear. Venus and Mercury will still be widely conjunct reminding us that compassion, respectful communication and respect for others views can help with progress. Venus’s close aspect to Pluto reminds us that painful events in love hold valuable keys to personal transformation and evolution if we are open. It is a good time to shed outdated beliefs about love and relationship and to grow in a more evolved direction.
October ’11
“I do not regret for a single moment having lived for pleasure. I did it to the full, as one should do everything one does…But to have continued the same life would have been wrong because it would have been limiting. The other side of the garden held its secrets for me also.” Oscar Wilde
September ended under the influence of the recent Venus/Saturn conjunction. Although often popularly described as a difficult aspect for love and money, Venus/Saturn is about serious commitment to core values. When there is a scarcity or perceived scarcity of money or love it provides excellent timing to review core values and to chart a new course accordingly.
The seriousness of the Venus/Saturn conjunction was offset a bit by the influence of the Mars/Jupiter aspect which is influence through October 9th. This aspect provides energy and enthusiasm to the seriousness of Saturn. There is a tendency to overdo with this aspect so it bodes well to increase awareness about doing things in a moderate way.
Through the 11th Venus will trine Neptune providing a good time for spiritual and artistic work. Life can look beautiful at a time like this because we tend to be looking through rose colored glasses. It is an idealistic influence and provides a good time to revisit higher aspirations related to bringing more love into the world. Romance can flourish under this influence – it is a good time for a romantic getaway or night out.
From the 8th through the 19th the Sun aspects Saturn boding well for work. A lot can be accomplished during this time. Be sure to include innovative approaches and techniques. On the 9th Venus moves into Scorpio bringing more depth and intensity into relationships. As the sunlight wanes in the northern hemisphere the increased darkness reminds us of Persephone’s descent into the underworld. On a personal level it is a good time access what it is we feel passionate about and to include more space and time for it in our lives if necessary.
From the 9th through the 17th Venus is aspecting Jupiter – watch for extravagance and excess. It is a time when overspending and overdoing with food and drink are highlighted.
The Full Moon on the 11th is in Aries. The Libra/Aries axis is about learning to advocate for individual needs diplomatically.
The New Moon is in Scorpio on the 26th at 3 degrees of Scorpio – providing a good time for intention setting.
Fantasy and romance abound at the end of October (the 28th through the 31) as the cosmic lovers Venus and Mars square Neptune.
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September ’11
“The universe is evolving towards an even greater destiny and we are the means of this global transformation.” Pir Vialyat Inayat Khan
September begins under the influence of Jupiter retrograde. The Jupiter retrograde period extends through December 26. It bodes well during this time period to reassess resources – inner resources such as self esteem, self worth and courage as well as outer resources. It is a good time to review financial strategies – to ascertain where there are resources that may be underused as well as areas where excess spending might be cut back.
As the month begins the Sun is in harmonious aspect to Mars making this an energized time. It is a very good time for organizing, cleaning out files, closets, desks etc. It bodes well for getting things in order in general.
Mercury will be in Virgo from the 9th through the 25. This is a good influence for detail oriented work and planning. It can be a critical influence, though and a good policy for this time frame is to abstain from criticism and instead focus on creating positive solutions.
The Full Moon is on 9/12 at 19 Pisces.
The 14th through the 18th may feeling challenging as Venus enters Libra and sets off the Pluto/Uranus square. Under these influences unresolved partnership issues may resurface – particularly issues involving love, finances and freedom. It is best to focus on what it is on a deeper level that needs to be transformed and to look for innovative approaches and breakthroughs.
The Sun moves into Libra – the sign of fairness in partnership on 9/23 keeping the focus on justice in relationship. Pay attention to what is being triggered under this influence. Those are the area’s most likely in need of change and reform.
Mars will enter the sign of Leo on the 18th making this a good time for levity, entertaining and creativity.
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August
“What seas what shores what grey rocks and what islands
What water lapping the bow
And scent of pine and the wood thrush singing through the fog
What images return O my daughter. “ TS Eliot
The influence of the sea god Neptune is strong throughout the month of August. The planet Neptune rules water and the watery dream life of individuals. Neptune’s influence provides dreams, visions and inspiration to artists and mystics. Neptune also rules addiction – often referred to as a derailed spiritual journey.
August 1- the 6th Venus trines Uranus. This is an aspect which governs “love at first site” experiences as well as innovation and experimentation in affairs of the heart and relationships. This planetary pair loves surprises, spontaneity and relationships that foster freedom and individuality. If you are open to a new relationship this is a good time to be aware of what is going on around you. Heed synchronicity. Expect the unexpected. If you are in an existing relationship that could use some spicing up this would be the time.
From the 1st through the 11th there is a strong influence towards excess as the Sun and Venus square Jupiter. Watch for overindulgence and overspending as with Venus involved some alluring things may be on the table.
Mercury stations the retrograde on August 2. As with all planetary stations it is wise to heed any info that comes to you two or three days on either side of the station. This is a fertile time for creative and spiritual work as the veils between the worlds are thin. It will also be a time when information we may have overlooked can be revealed and when perceptions can be more profound. There will be help and guidance with projects and endeavors that are consciously undergoing reform – individually and collectively.
Mercury will be retrograde from the 2nd through the 26th, so use this period to rethink, reconsider and revise. Take extra care with travel and communications this month as with Neptune’s influence mental clarity may be harder to maintain than normal.
On the 3rd Mars moves up to a trine with Neptune – again making this a good time for creative and spiritual work. It is good under this influence to strengthen the immune system.
From the 3rd through the 19th Mars will be transiting the Cardinal Cross making this a volatile time. This is a good time to focus on staying grounded and aware as tempers can flare and impulsive acts create problems.
On the 4th Neptune retrogrades back into Aquarius. This is a humanitarian aspect which encourages us to collaborate and cooperate with others to move the world a more just and sustainable direction.
From the 21st through the 29 the Sun and Venus will move into an opposition to Neptune. Neptune will cast his gossamer veil over daily life at this time of the month as well. Double check details as it may be more difficult to separate fact from fiction. Pay attention to intuition and guidance from higher planes. Make extra time for mediation and creative projects.
On the 25 Mars will square Saturn – the aspect that astrologers sometimes describe as driving with the brakes and gas on. It is often a time of frustration. It can be a time when significant work is accomplished as long as obstacles and delay are anticipated and worked with.
Mercury will station direct on the 26th and the New Moon is on the 28.
“I have heard the mermaids singing, each to each…
I have seen them riding seaward on the waves
Combing the white hair of the waves blown back
When the wind blows the water white and black.” TS Eliot
All times mentioned are EDT. Sign up for Amelia’s free monthly astrology forecast on her homepage www.ameliashea.com.
