Astrology outlook for August September 2021 and beyond: Saturn versus Uranus; stationary Pluto

A summary of this article has been published in issue 119 of the Uki Village News (August September 2021)

The big picture: darkness and light

‘Allegory of Life ‘ by Pierre Puvis de Chavannes

Watching the news or connecting with world events through social media we know that our beautiful planet is going through a difficult period of transformation. We are all asked to master our inner resources and be ready to change ingrained habits in order to restore some balance to a severely lop-sided world.

It is often difficult to remain hopeful and upbeat when things seem to be getting more difficult for many of us. A serious astrological assessment of the global situation may sound negative at times, but it simply reflects the enormous challenges we face, while also showing how the same energies that are disrupting the status quo are also harbingers of future renewal, fostering the vision of a better, cleaner, more just and united world.

The present difficulties should truly force us to embrace the changes we need to make. In Astrology we call ‘transits’ the ever shifting mutual relationship between Sun, Moon and Planets, meaning that those relationships, by their own nature, are, transitory. Good news if you are looking for the light at the end of this tunnel.     

Many Planets in retrogradation

In August and September 2021 all the major planetary players, Jupiter, Saturn, Chiron, Neptune and Pluto will be traveling in retro motion. And Uranus will join them soon, turning Stationary Retrograde on August 20. Between October and December they will all turn Direct again. 
A period with many Retrograde could mean that time seems to stand still; things do not change as quickly as we wish, while unresolved issues are still simmering below the surface, ready to fully manifest again in the near future.

Saturn versus Uranus

For instance, the most important transit of 2021, the 90 degrees angle between Aquarius Saturn and Taurus Uranus, is not anymore exact (the second pass was in mid June) and will be exact again only on December 24, moving away for good after that.

This is the transit epitomizing the severe limitations the Covid19 pandemic has placed on everyone (Saturn), as well as the resentment and desire to rebel against those same limitations (Uranus). The same transit has also manifested into the rapid escalation of conflicts around the world as well as the weather extremes coming fast upon us: sweltering heat in Canada and Siberia, deadly unprecedented floods in Asia and Europe, destructive bush fires in North America the Middle East and Europe; as well as many countries on the verge of economic and social collapse, civil unrest, even civil wars; and a new Cold War afoot.  All these events, in a relatively short period of time, should make us more aware of the need for urgent and radical measures to uphold unity in the face of many mutual dangers; to counteract social inequalities, the global threat to democracy and the ultimate challenge of climate change, with the very survival of the planet at stake.

This divisive combination of antagonistic energies will remain active the whole year, more keenly felt when close to being exact or when other celestial bodies set it off by transit.  

In August, for instance, Sun and Mercury in Leo will connect with the Saturn-Uranus’ transit, by opposition and square, between August 4 and 8. 

The August lunar cycle will also tend to activate Saturn and Uranus: on August 1, the Taurus Last Quarter Moon will be conjunct Uranus, while at right angle with Sun and Mercury; on August 8 the Leo New Moon will be opposing Saturn and squaring Uranus too; and, on August 22, the last degree Aquarius Full Moon will instead align to Jupiter, another major player in the evolution of the global crisis we are still caught up in.
The fact that the Moon will be so involved in the current planetary dynamics could stir even deeper emotions, leading to outbursts of passions, falling out between people, more clashes with authority and social unrest.

Where is the positive in all of this? Is Saturn just a sadistic master squeezing the world into its authoritarian fist? Doesn’t Saturn represent rather the sense of responsibility that we need to develop, as people and nations, to become truly adult individuals?  Does it not represent also the willingness to make personal sacrifices for the benefit of society as a whole (Aquarius)? The need to be more realistic, limiting our wants to reduce their destructive impact in an ever more fragile environment?

Is Uranus just a destroyer of peace, source of divorce and war, alienating people and countries from each other? Or is not rather the light of intelligence illumining the new paths we need to take, to bring the changes we can imagine possible? Is it not Uranus anticipating future trends and overcoming negative past conditioning and prejudice? In Taurus Uranus is here to especially show us alternative ways to make a wiser use of the Earth’s depleting natural resources.

Stationary Pluto

What about Pluto in Capricorn?   With his ‘God of the underworld’ persona, not a reassuring bedfellow either!  This planet has been one of the main actors in the pandemic’s play, bringing personal loss and a sense of fate to our collective experience. We are facing a global catastrophe, the virus just the tip of the iceberg. In many unhappy places this is a war of people versus the virus, people versus authorities; people versus people; the environment versus people. Opinions abound and they are all fiercely defended as the gospel. From now to the end of 2021 Pluto will remain stationary on the 24^th degree of Capricorn. This degree is the same that was activated in a big way by the transits of Jupiter in 2020. For this year, at least, this degree will remain the focus for the expression of Pluto’s dark energy.

There is another side to Pluto’s coin though: the Pluto’s experience, at the personal or collective level, should ultimately empower us, making us aware of our resilience in the face of very difficult, even unprecedented circumstances. Pluto is a symbol of survival, of defeating the greatest odds, of facing the deepest fears and come out winning.

Jupiter and Chiron

Retro Jupiter re-entered Aquarius on July 28, ending then a two and half months foray into Pisces. Jupiter will transit Aquarius until December 29.  The second pass of  Jupiter semi-square Chiron in Aries, exact again on August 18, is a reminder that this is still a time for greater collective vulnerability to negative external agents (from viruses to misinformation). Gentle healing will be needed, to restore hope and confidence in better things to come. This transit too will not be over until nearly the end of 2021 (third pass on November 18).

Jupiter’s function is to seek the philosophical aspect of all our experiences, to view our personal circumstances as part of a much bigger, universal picture, thus gaining a wider perspective on everything.  The difficult link between Jupiter and Chiron, the planet of wounding, illness and healing, has an obvious significance. What larger understanding of life and ourselves can we glean through the ongoing difficulties and dangers? What are we learning from this historical crisis that could make much better prepared for other unavoidable challenges? I believe that Jupiter will help us to become more aware of the profound connection we share with all other people on earth, of one nation to all other nations (Aquarius/Pisces). Tackling this medical crisis in one country will be only part of a more global solution. The same can be said for all other crisis facing the world, climate change in the first place. We could tackle the challenge successfully only if we work together toward a solution.

Astrology and the Australian floods, April-May 2021: Jupiter’s first ingress into Pisces

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A shorter version of this article was published, in late March, on the Uki Village News

Astrology and the Australian Floods In ancient times the art of predicting the weather was one of astrology’s most valuable uses. In the absence of scientific instruments astrological weather forecast was naturally of the greatest importance for early agricultural people who relied on it to decide the best times for sowing and harvesting. Meteorological astrology is an art in itself, with very complex sets of laws of its own. I am not an expert in this specialized topic, but I can very much appreciate the cosmic synchronicity that I observed at play during the recent Australian floods.    Astrology is an amazing mirror of both ‘reality’ and ‘psyche’. In its cosmic mirror the two merge: the outer life of events and experiences and the inner life of thoughts and feelings. Becoming aware of this underlying nexus is at the heart of our art, opening up a fascinating view of the world and ourselves. That is why for me it’s not farfetched to hear the sound of rain in the Water Signs; to feel warmth, dry weather in the Fire Signs; temperate, moist weather in the Earth Signs; cooler, windy weather in the Air Signs; as well as identify possible extreme events in some intense planetary configurations. The lunar cycle, during which the peak of the floods has occurred, began at the Pisces Water New Moon, on March 13, with increase in rain activity in many parts of the country. During that phase the Moon and Sun weren’t just transiting a Water Sign but were also in close conjunction to Venus and Neptune in Pisces too. At the time I began writing, March 20, day of the Aries Equinox (yearly ingress of the Sun in Aries, a crucial time in the cosmic calendar), Venus was still in Pisces and again conjunct the Sun! Early on March 22 the First Quarter Moon, another crucial phase of the lunar cycle, fell in Water Cancer, at a significant distance of 120 degrees (trine) from Pisces Mercury. All the above suggests water events and also translates as a highly emotional period, when compassionate and loving feelings prevail (Water), within families (Cancer) and communities (Pisces).  April 2021 During the first two to three weeks in April the focus will be on the Fire and Air Signs: Venus transiting Aries from April 1 to 15; Mercury will be in Aries also, April 4 to 19; Mars, in Gemini since March 4, will be in this Air Sign until April 23; Jupiter will remain in Aquarius until May 14; Saturn will be in Aquarius all the way to early 2023; Chiron in Aries until 2026. Only the trans-Saturn planets Uranus, Neptune and Pluto are found in Earth and Water Signs. The Fire and Air Elements cause a planet to express its particular power in an outgoing and sometimes even forceful manner, showing more oomph, but also less sensitivity. This will be a great time then to walk the talk, putting into action our ideas with confidence and optimism.  Aries Mercury and Gemini Mars are in fact bouncing off each other by occupying each other Signs for a while, what is known in Astrology as ‘mutual reception’. Venus in Aries encourages us to be more assertive in our relationships, if less emotional and diplomatic. Jupiter and Saturn in Aquarius remain a great stimulus for everyone to participate more in the life of the community, getting involved in collective projects, making new friends and trying new and exciting things, including social dissent. Independence and self-motivated actions are the keys to make the best of this period. By far the most important transit, exact on April 7, will be the 45°angle (semi-square) between Aquarius Jupiter and Aries Chiron. This difficult transit between the planet of expansion and the planet of illness and healing, peaking again in mid August and mid November, seems significant, with the world still in the grip of a pandemic and the southern hemisphere entering the year’s colder months that have proven so difficult for many during the North American and European winter. On April 19 Mercury and on April 23 Venus will enter Taurus, the same day Mars will leave Gemini to enter Cancer. Mercury and Venus’s transits in Taurus will last only until May 4 and 9 respectively; while Mars will remain in Cancer until June 12.  These are the three faster planets, affecting the way we deal with life from day to day and week to week. Their shift into the Earth and Water Signs indicate a less independent period for many, when relationships and feeling will come more to the fore, helping us to establish stronger emotional connections with family and loved ones.   May 2021 The month of May opens with the yearly conjunction of Sun-Uranus in Taurus, in itself a sign that some unexpected and sudden events are on the cards. The Sun will become, at this time, a powerful catalyst for the energies of both Uranus and Saturn by also squaring Aquarius Saturn on May 4. These transits could anticipate the challenges of the upcoming second pass of the Saturn-Uranus’ 90° angle, exact again on June 15. Escalation of personal and collective conflicts is likely, as we have seen happening around the world recently. The need for change in our social structures, laws, cultural bias etc. are compelling this year but also enormously challenged by the world’s most conservative mind set. As it was impossible to sugar coat the difficult transits of 2020 so it is for the Saturn-Uranus square, the most powerful and difficult transit of 2021, another clash of Titans. Jupiter in Pisces, May 14 to July 28 The Mutable Signs will become more active this month and in June-July. Mercury and Venus will enter Mutable Gemini in May 4 and 9 respectively. Most importantly, on May 14, Jupiter will leave Aquarius, Sign it entered only on December 19 2020, to enter Mutable Pisces. Jupiter’s stay in Pisces will not last long, covering only the first two degrees of the Sign. Jupiter in fact will re-enter Aquarius in retro motion on July 28 (until December 29). Jupiter will end its transit in Pisces on May 11 but will return to this Sign again for a short period, between October 28 and December 21 2022, date of its final ingress into Aries. Jupiter enters the last of the Water Signs about every twelve years, ushering a period when we are encouraged to listen more to our inner self, be inspired by heightened imagination and sensitivity. We could also become more responsive to the feelings of others, seeking to identify with their souls, their emotional needs and suffering. And, on a grander scale, we could become more open and receptive to the soul of the planet and all its creatures; an especially urgent need during the immediate drama of the Covid pandemic and the ecological tragedy looming on our world.  Feeling of collective empathy and compassion should inspire our life philosophy if we are able to respond to Jupiter’s amazing prompting. Of course there is always another, darker side to all coins, including ‘beneficial’ Jupiter’s. Pisces sensitivity often means a lack of boundaries and proper discrimination, the qualities of its opposite complementary Sign of Virgo that Pisces is in great need of consciously cultivate. We could then run the risk, as a collective, to be contaminated (for lack of a better word) by all sorts of fanciful notions, from wild conspiracies theories to actual physical infections. These could in fact spread even more readily under this influence. Let’s hope that rational thinking and Pisces’ uplifting spiritual insight will prevail, for the good of the planet. Upcoming Mercury’s retro period in Gemini and the first Eclipses of 2021 The Mutable shift will be also significant because of Mercury’s Gemini retro period (from May 30 to June 23), causing our little brother to transit Gemini for a protracted period, until July 12. To add to this, the first Eclipses of 2021 will fall in Mutable Signs too: a Lunar at the Full Moon in Mutable Sagittarius, on May 26, and a Solar at the Gemini New Moon, on June 10. The emphasis on these Signs will make this period feel more transitional and uncertain, on the bright side stimulating us to adapt better to swiftly evolving circumstances.

Changing Times: October and November 2020 Astrology: Saturn and Pluto’s Stations in Capricorn. Jupiter-Pluto’s conjunction

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• This is a longer version of an article published in issue 114 of the Uki Village News (link).

The Babel Tower

October and November 2020 will be abuzz with cosmic events. We are nearing the last stage of the planetary saga that began at the end of last year and has dominated the world since. In December Jupiter and Saturn will finally align in Aquarius, ending this tough Capricorn year with a promise of redemption. Here are the highlights for this interim period, as I see them.

Saturn and Pluto packing a punch during their stationary periods

Between mid September and early October all three history making planets transiting Capricorn, Jupiter, Saturn and Pluto, turn Direct, beginning thus the last lap of their 2020 momentous alignments. When planets begin and end their retrogradation they enter a stationary period during which they sit on one degree of the eclipse for a sustained period of time. This makes their influence more intense and longer lasting. Saturn will pause on the 25^th degree of Capricorn until the end of October and Pluto on the 22^nd until the third week in November. If these same degrees of Capricorn, Cancer, Aries, Libra (the Cardinal Signs) were occupied by Sun, Moon, Planets or Angles in your Birth Chart this is for you a time of serious adjustments and even profound changes. It could become a necessity to establish more realistic foundations for your future, moving away from past choices, even if the process of doing so can disheartening at times. The whole of this year we have been urged by circumstances and inner feelings to take a stand, to reinvent ourself using untapped before inner resources.  This is one of the last calls this year to embrace courageous if difficult choices because they feel deeply right.  

An example in point: transiting Saturn and Pluto will be, for a long while, stationary opposite US President Donald Trump’s birth Cancer Venus-Saturn, the challenge of a lifetime, just during his struggle for a second term. At the same time the USA itself is preparing for its first Pluto’ Return since independence from Britain, one of the most intense period of transformation any country can go through; a lengthy and difficult process of shedding its old skin, very close now and in 2021, exact in 2022/23 and ending only in early 2024.

Jupiter last historical passes in Capricorn

In October and November it is Jupiter though that will take front stage again, forming the last ‘passes’ of two major transits: the harmonious angle with Neptune in Pisces, exact for the last time on October 12; and the difficult but transformative conjunction to Pluto in Capricorn, exact for the last time on November 14.  Both these transits influence will last until December, when a new shift is on the cards. We can thus expect Jupiter to amplify again the current health/economic crisis, as well as manifesting as extreme weather events, social-military conflicts and social unrest on a grander scale than usual. As it has already done this year Jupiter could be also prying open boxes full of secrets and scandals, exposing corruption, propaganda and misinformation,  

The conjunctions of Jupiter and Pluto are not rare events, occurring roughly every thirteen years. At times they acquire greater significance however, happening simultaneously with other major planetary shifts, as it has been the case this year, when Saturn also aligned to Pluto.  Here are just a couple of examples astrologers have ascribed, at least in part, to the effect of the Jupiter-Pluto’s conjunction.

• 1930-31 in Cancer: the Great Depression that spread from Wall Street to the world and its aftermath.
• 1955 in Leo: the day of conjunction, November 1, became the earliest date for the official recording of American combat deaths in Vietnam, as well as the start of the social unrest against it that continued to divide America and the world to the war’s bitter end in 1975. 
• 2020 in Capricorn: the first pass of this conjunction occurred in early April when the pandemic became more widespread and serious. The second pass happened on June 30, four days shy of the horrible explosion that rocked Beirut, exposing the criminal neglect and corruption of the Lebanese government.  July was also the month the pandemic took a turn for the worse in many regions of the world. On November 14 we will witness the last of these fateful alignments. It is not all bad news though! Being the last of these alignments this should also bring the beginning of closure to the issues that have plagued the world thus far. Whenever Jupiter is involved in a major transit, even a difficult one, the aftermath is often a collective expansion of consciousness, greatly helping to make sense of otherwise inexplicable misfortunes.

Mars still extremely active and influential

Mars, Retrograde since September 10, ignites the current period with the second pass of its frustrating angle to Saturn in Capricorn (90 degrees) on September 30, an alignment whose influence will spill over the first two weeks of October and yet return in mid January 2021. This is the transit so far principally responsible for the social unrest we have seen enacted in a number of countries all over the world: related to the intense frustration caused by the unprecedented government measures to minimize the spread of the pandemic, as well as exasperation with rigged elections (see Belarus), governments’ failures and corruption, endemic racism and police brutality.
Retracing its steps through Aries, Mars will also reach again its challenging angles to the other two planets in Capricorn, forming a 90 degrees angle to Pluto on October 9 and to Jupiter on October 19 (both angles to be repeated for the last time on December 24 and January 23 respectively).  These transits could again escalate social unrest all over the world, exasperation with governments’ failures, political and ideological divisions. We have seen the power of Mars (the God of War) to instigate conflicts and rebellion, to jump into the fry without thought of consequences, following an often blind instinct to head on address real or perceived wrongs. Another period likely to produce open conflicts and widespread intolerance is approaching. More of the same is on the world cards, not just for the rest of this year but also the beginning of 2021, when things should hopefully begin to ease up.  

Retrogradation of Mercury from Scorpio back into Libra (October 14 to November 4)

Last but not least Mercury will go through its last retro period of 2020, from on October 14 to November 4, moving direct only after the US presidential elections. This seems to highlight the potential for communication breakdowns, general chaos, mistrust and flourishing of misinformation during the last league of this historic campaign.

On October 14 Mercury will become Stationary Retrograde between the 11^th and 12^th degree of Scorpio. On October 28 Mercury will re-enter Libra and continue to transit this Sign all the way to the 25^th/26^th degrees, becoming then Stationary Direct on November 4, to re-enter Scorpio for good on November 11. Of great significance during this Retro period will be three passes of difficult angles to Uranus in Taurus, Neptune in Pisces and Chiron in Aries, in early and late October, and again in mid November.
During the whole of Mercury’s Retro period avoid, if you can, to make serious commitments or big purchases, as circumstances are likely to change in the near future, so that early choices may give cause for regret.

Lunations in October-November: Aries Full Moon, October 2, 7.05 am – Libra New Moon, October 23, 5.30 am – Taurus Full Moon, November 1, 0.49 am – Scorpio New Moon, November 15, 3.07 pm – Gemini Full Moon, November 30, 7.29 pm, also a Lunar Eclipse.

Critical days in October: September 30: Retro Mars in Aries square Saturn in Capricorn – October 2, 7.05 am : Aries Full Moon – October 8: Mercury in Scorpio opposition Uranus in Taurus – October 9: Retro Mars in Aries square Pluto in Capricorn – October 11: the Sun in Libra square Jupiter in Capricorn – October 12: Jupiter in Capricorn sextile Neptune in Pisces – October 14: Mercury turns Retrograde + the Sun in Libra opposition Mars in Aries – October 15: the Sun in Libra square Pluto in Capricorn – October 18: the Sun in Libra square Saturn in Capricorn – October 19: Retro Mars in Aries square Jupiter in Capricorn – October 20: Retro Mercury in Scorpio opposition Uranus in Taurus – October 23, 5.30 am : Libra New Moon –

Critical days in November: November 1: the Sun in Scorpio opposition Uranus in Taurus, as well as Taurus Full Moon, 0.49 am – November 4: Mercury turns Direct – November 14: Jupiter conjunct Pluto in Capricorn – November 15, 3.07 pm: Scorpio New Moon – November 17: Mercury in Scorpio opposition Uranus in Taurus – November 30: start of the last Eclipse season for 2020: Lunar Eclipse at the Gemini Full Moon, at 7.29 pm. The next Solar Total Eclipse, at the Sagittarius New Moon, will occur on December 14.

The Astrology of June July 2020, with an eye on the Covid crisis. Jupiter-Saturn-Pluto alignment and Another Eclipse Season. The role of Mars

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‘Temple Garden’ by Catherine Nelson

This a longer version of an article published in the Uki Village News issue 112, for June-July 2020

The big picture

A highly unusual astrological narrative began unfolding in early December with the ingress of Jupiter in Capricorn, joining Saturn-Pluto as they approached their historical conjunction.
During the coming months of June-July we will see a continuation of the same, with a new Eclipse season, and Jupiter’ second pass alignment to Pluto.

In astrology Jupiter has the function of expanding our understanding but also of magnifying events, for better or worse. Capricorn is known as the Sign of Jupiter’s ‘fall’, a term indicating a uniquely challenging environment for this planet.

The long anticipated Saturn-Pluto’s conjunction in Capricorn was of concern to many astrological seekers because both planets portend difficult and even traumatic transitions in our personal and collective lives. Joining together they foretold hard times ahead.  We know now that they brought even greater disruption and upheaval than anyone anticipated, marking a truly ‘karmic’ time for the whole planet.

Fortunately Saturn moved ahead of Pluto rapidly, leaving Capricorn by March 22. It will return to Capricorn between July 2 and December 17, but without reaching the degree of Pluto again, something we can all be grateful for. It could have been even worse!

The alignment of Jupiter to the Boxing Day 2019 Solar Eclipse, very close to the Capricorn Solstice, the start of a new season, was further confirmation of the powerful role Jupiter will play in shaping the major events of the coming year. Furthermore the January Cancer Lunar Eclipse was also aligned (opposition) to the Saturn-Pluto conjunction, another sign of the far reaching consequences of their encounter.

The narrative has not ended though because it has been and continues to be the role of Jupiter, and also of Mars, to trigger the darker energy of Pluto, until at least the end of this fateful year.  A highly activated Pluto can manifest as grievous losses and serious control issues, as shown by the draconian measures governments had to put in place and the resentment some of these have fueled in many people.

Pluto also has increased the need for honest appraisal of any situation, no by embellishment or false hopes, but by dealing with the starkly sad realities life is presenting to us at this moment. We can choose to be empowered or be crushed by it. If radical changes are not implemented now, in the way we govern ourselves, the hard lessons will have to be repeated and things may actually get worse rather than better in the future.

While Pluto forces us to confront our deepest fears, Jupiter transiting Capricorn and aligning with Pluto three times (April 4, June 30, November13) is making the impact of the Saturn-Pluto conjunction more profound and far reaching, it is also offering a new vision for the future though, a new philosophical outlook on life that will stretch well beyond the present crisis. This is obvious observing how many of us are heeding the call for change to the way we live, accepting personal sacrifices to stop the abuse of the natural environment, the exploitation of resources and of people less fortunate than ourselves. The unprecedented emergency is showing that things could be different, that our future doesn’t have to be a repetition of the past. There is certainly hope, but the outcome is, to a great extent, up to us. The old maxim that ‘the stars incline, they do not compel‘ is forever true. We can make the best or the worst of any difficult transit; as we can enjoy or spoil the positive ones.

The Eclipses

The June Eclipses, Lunar (June 6 Sagittarius Full Moon) and Solar (June 21 Cancer New Moon) are showcasing a difficult Sun-Moon angle to Mars-Neptune, the latter becoming conjunct in Pisces on June 14, also aligning then to the Last Quarter Moon, a critical time in every Moon cycle. This whole configuration could aggravate the collective tendency toward flights of fancy and unrealistic thinking, challenging our ability to see through the fog of misinformation.  It could also make us more impressionable and thus prone to errors of judgement, as well as aggravating our collective susceptibility to negative energies, psychological as well as physical. A healthy grip on common sense will be a must, in this confusing and anxiety riddled period. I fear that many could relax their guard too soon against the still clear and present danger of the pandemic (see the end of June second alignment of Jupiter-Pluto), or become easy prey to the numerous extravagant narratives that have been widely circulating since the start of the emergency.

The last Eclipse, a Lunar at the July 5 Capricorn Full Moon, concurs with the Jupiter-Pluto conjunction (already exact on June 30), the Moon aligning with them early on July 6. This particular event speaks loudly of the still present impact of all that went on previously, demanding a cautious and realistic approach to the crisis in order to master the unruly emotions and passions that could lead us astray.

The role of Mars

Let’s not forget that fiery Mars, who played such an important role in the escalation of the crisis in March, when transiting Capricorn and aligning to Pluto-Jupiter-Saturn, will enter Aries on June 28. Due to Retrogradation (September 10 to November 14) Mars will transit Aries until January 7 2021, again interacting by difficult 90 degrees angles with Jupiter-Saturn-Pluto, between August and October, December and January.  So, in my view, it is not over until is over.

The good news is that Capricorn, the central character of this entire saga, is a highly productive and realistic Sign, so that, if we manage to navigate these troubled waters with patience and a down to earth attitude, we will find plenty of strength and amazing resilience to cope with anything life may throw at us.  And, last but not least, the amazing conjunction of Jupiter to Saturn on the threshold of Aquarius, on December 22, is a beacon of hope for a better future if we embrace a spirit of reform and cooperation.

 

Gardening by the Taurus New Moon, with Paola Emma: from Thursday, April 23, to Saturday, April 25, 2020

 

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Next favorable days for Sowing and Planting:
Tuesday to Thursday, April 28, 29 and until 11 am on April 30
Waxing Crescent Moon transiting Water Fertile Cancer

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To view a full interpretation of the Moon Sign and Phase please click the images below.

Taurus New Moon, 03°24′, Thu, Apr 23, 12.25 pm

The WANING/WAXING MOON TRANSITS TAURUS from Thursday, April 23, at 5.35 am, to Saturday, April 25, at 5.19 pm, entering then the Sign of GEMINI.

The TAURUS NEW MOON PHASE begins on Thursday, April 23, at 12.25 pm, and will end on Monday, April 27, at 12.45 pm, with the GEMINI CRESCENT MOON PHASE.

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Click any of the Little Helpers for more information

Sowing Planting

Herbs

Propagating Cuttings

Root Crops Bulbs

Ornamental Flowers

Liquid Gold

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Taurus Moon in the garden

• The following are the Edible Plants, Herbs, Tees and Flowers since ancient times associated with Taurus, and also with Venus, Taurus’ traditional Ruler, the archetypal goddess of love, pleasure, beauty, harmony. All plants that make the garden beautiful, cheerful and sweet smelling, and those whose fruit are pleasant and mild tasting belong to Venus and the Signs she rules.
  

In the garden Earthy Taurus is considered a fairly productive Sign, especially suitable for Root Crops, like potatoes and carrots, helping to strengthen the root system and to make plants sturdier. It is also a great Sign for `Flowering Bubs and other ornamental plants.
Great time to be lazy in the garden too, lull in a hammock and watch the grass grow.

Edible Plants: Mushrooms, many fruit of a red colour, like Cherries, Raspberries, Blackberries, Strawberries, Tomatoes, Plums, Apples. Also Almond.

Healing Herbs: Some of the medicinal herbs associated with Taurus are suitable to treat kidney ailments, like Elderberry, Sassafras, Black Currants etc. Or to soothe a sore throat, like Liquorice, Peppermint, Black Currants, Golden Seal, Burdock, Willow. Also Taurus herbs are Lovage, Vervain, Fenugreek, Slippery Elm, Lavender, Catnip, Strawberries Leaves, Mother of Thyme.

Trees: Apple, Almond, Plum, Red Cherry, Birch, Sandalwood. Also flowering Trees.

Ornamental and Flowering Plants: Rose, Poppy, Foxglove, Daisy, Primula, Violet, Columbine, Mallow, Sundews, Periwinkles, Primroses.

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This Moon Phase in the garden

• Note that the garden activities associated with the Moon Sign depend also on the cycle the Moon is in. The Moon transiting through a fertile or productive Sign will no be so favorable if the Phase is not a productive one, and vice-versa. For best results the Sign and Phase of the Moon have to be considered together.

The New Moon Phase is traditionally a time to begin sowing and planting because the increasing Moon light will help plants to emerge and flourish. Moisture becomes more and more available as the light of the Moon intensifies, up to the Full Moon. Traditionally however no sowing or planting are recommended within twelve hours of the phase itself.

Everything can go in now, but in particular leafy vegetables and all plants that we grow for their above the ground parts, but only when the Moon is transiting through the very fertile Water Signs or the productive Signs Taurus, Libra and Capricorn.

With this particular Taurus New Moon occurring at 12.45 pm local time on Thursday, April 23, it would be better to start the recommended garden activities on Friday, April 24, continuing on Saturday, April 25, until 5.19 pm, when the Moon will enter Non Fertile Gemini.

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Astrology for February-March 2020 and beyond, by Paola Emma: Saturn in Aquarius, Pluto in Capricorn, Mercury Retro

‘Morning On The Seine In The Rain’ by Claude Monet

A shorter version of this article was published in issue 110 of the Uki Village News

The big picture

No doubt the January 11 Full Moon Eclipse in Cancer brought a major shift of energies to our region, with rain finally falling on our parched land. With the Eclipse’s extraordinary alignment to one of the major astrological occurrences in recent year, the Capricorn Saturn-Pluto’s conjunction, the weather change was only one of the many events that this powerful transit brought in its wake.  This regional experience reflects the fact that the long awaited and by many dreaded alignment is now technically behind us, even if still powerfully close. The numerous thunderstorms we are experiencing are just another sign that a massive pent-up energy is being released. Many of us feel lighter and more optimistic; also awed by nature’s uncanny power to surprise us.

We are certainly not out of the wood though. The failure of the December 2019 UN Madrid Climate Conference to achieve significant commitments from participating countries clearly demonstrates that we are still hovering at the edge of a chasm, separating us not only from viable solutions to the pressing climate crisis, but also from a unifying vision for the future: first world countries versus developing ones; aging politicians and plutocrats versus angry activist teenagers; science versus conspiracy theory etc.

Pluto in Capricorn is destined to bring profound changes that could be lethal if we do not take responsible charge of the situation. Allowing Pluto, ancient God of the Underworld, to do his own thing could mean unprecedented ecological disasters, massive extinctions and consequently social upheavals the world has not seen in a long time. Positively the slow passage of Pluto through Capricorn (2008-2023) could instead provide us with the moral courage and resourcefulness to tackle this crisis and indeed survive it, if not completely avoiding the dangers we are facing, as the Australian fires have sadly demonstrated.

Saturn, known as the Lord of Karma among other titles, is not missing this opportunity to deal out some heavy penalties for our past transgressions and callous indifference. For this reason it is considered by most astrologers an ominous companion for Pluto. To me Saturn represents also a hopeful side of this difficult equation though:  the down to earth, responsible attitude that is absolutely crucial to the success of any human intervention. Like knowing, for instance, the limits of what can be realistically achieved, finding viable local and global solutions, rather than aiming for the stars only to fail miserably.

Apart from all that, there is indeed a light at the end of this tunnel because Saturn will soon be leaving Capricorn (March 22) to enter Aquarius. This transit, due to retrogradation, will last only until July 2. When Saturn will re-enter Aquarius for good, on December 17, it will also, few days later, become conjunct to Jupiter, on December 22. This alignment could indeed bring some welcome opening to unity and humanitarian reforms, all sentiments that seem unattainable under the ominous shadow of the current conjunction to Pluto.  Furthermore the Jupiter-Saturn conjunction in Aquarius is not just one of their regular twenty year meetings. It represents in fact the momentous shift of these alignments from the Earth Signs (where most of these conjunctions have occurred since 1802) to the Air Sign (where most will occur until 2140!). Astrologers throughout the ages have considered the alignments of Jupiter and Saturn extremely influential in shaping world’s history, its prevalent ideologies and socio-political leanings. While collectively the Earth Signs are driven by the need for material security and a pragmatic view of life, the Air Signs are driven by ideals and a reforming, sometimes even revolutionary spirit.

However 2020, with Jupiter in Capricorn also activating Pluto in early April, at the end of June and again in mid November, will see most probably an exhalation of similar issues to the ones we have experienced in 2019. Only at the very end of the year Jupiter’s ingress into Aquarius, with Saturn, could mark a positive shift. The next UN Climate Conference will be held in Glasgow, England, on November 19 2020, just a month before the Aquarius alignment. There is hope that the Aquarian spirit of mutual understanding and friendship may prevail over our differences and that more visionary, idealistic goals could drive the discussions toward the more radical approach needed in this grave emergency. Pluto, in Capricorn until 2023, can in fact provide enough down to earth focus to manifest ideals into practical forms.

In the short term

The Sun

It is that time of the year again, on March 8, when the Sun will align to mystical Neptune in Pisces, encouraging us to become more conscious of our innate intuition, imagination and compassion. It will be easier to forgive and forget, washing past resentments into the unifying water of this oceanic Sign. With Mercury, returning in Pisces, after retrogradation, from March 16 to April 11, the gentle, artistic, dreamy influence of this Sign will remain with us, softening the harsh realities of the intense Capricorn experience.

The Retrogradation of Mercury between Pisces and Aquarius
February 17 to March 10

Mercury is ready for its regular loop, reminding us that it is time to review our thinking and the way we communicate our thoughts, to achieve the best possible outcome personally and in our social life. People who happen to have the Sun, Moon, Planets or Chart’s Angles in the first half of the Mutable Sign of Pisces-Virgo-Sagittarius-Gemini or the last two degrees of the Fixed Signs of Aquarius-Leo-Taurus-Scorpio will be more directly affected by this retrogradation.

To avoid feeling severely ‘muddled headed’ (a common side effect of Mercury in Pisces, even when not retrograde), we could all try to take it easier at this time; not attempting to deal with too many matters or to stick too strictly to plans and routines. The best would be to stay mentally pliable, in order to adapt to shifting circumstances. It could also be wise to be tolerant of confusing or mixed messages we may receive from other people. Whom can we expect to trust when we cannot even trust ourselves?

Venus

From February 8 to March 5 Venus will transit fiery Aries, where she takes on the role of Warrior Goddess, fighting against injustice and inequality. During this transit she will cross swords with all the Capricorn planets: first with Jupiter, on February 24, then with Pluto, on February 29, and finally with Saturn on March 4. This could mean heightened chance for disputes and open conflicts, when ‘winning’ is the whole point. On the positive side, things that need facing, directly and courageously, can be faced at these times. All will be well if we manage to move on afterward. No time for regrets and looking back when Venus is in Aries.

Venus will transit Taurus from March 5 to April 4, a more relaxed and affectionate place for Venus, when art and pleasure could inspire creativity and also ability to focus more intensely on whatever we do. Said that, just as the Sun separates from Neptune (March 8) Venus becomes conjunct Uranus (March 9), bringing two powerful outer planets to play on the daily stage of life and relationships. Despite the loyal and steady nature usually attributed to Venus in Taurus the alignment to Uranus will bring up the more rebellious side of the Goddess, if for a few days.  New and exciting relationships could spring up as from nowhere, and perhaps opportunities for adventure or to just prove our independence.

Mars

From February 16 to March 31 Mars will be transiting Capricorn, joining the planetary group already there, Jupiter, Pluto and Saturn. This will be therefore an important transit because Mars’ role is to bring things out into the open, also activating into action the slower moving celestial bodies. Mars will first meet Jupiter on March 20, then Pluto, on March 23, and finally Saturn but not before both entering the Sign of Aquarius, between March 31 and April 1. As with Venus activating the same planets earlier, this Mars will increase the chance of open conflicts at these times; the sort of confrontations when we test our strength against another, trying to establish ‘who is the boss’. Moderation is recommended, remembering that Mars can cut bridges permanently if let loose.

The final alignment to Saturn, on April 1, could manifest as a strong drive to action but also great frustration as we face delays and limitations that could severely try our patience. No time to expect immediate gratifications.

Positively the whole period of Mars in Capricorn could prove particularly constructive, helping us to get things done, putting in the extra effort and discipline necessary for success, making a ‘real’ difference: a test of our self confidence and leadership abilities.

The Aries Equinox

If you would like to celebrate the advent of autumn, the Aries Equinox will occur this year on March 20, at 2.49 pm Eastern Daylight Saving Time. The map of this cosmic event, the traditional beginning of the astrological year, the Ram leading the flock, shows, in a nutshell, the transits that will be relevant in the next six to twelve months. As it has been the case in recent months the accent is on the Earth Sign of Capricorn where many planets are still congregating at the time of the Equinox, namely Mars, Jupiter, Pluto and Saturn, the latter though on the verge of entering the next Sign of Aquarius.  The fact that, just around this crucial time, Saturn finds itself at the threshold of a new Sign (together with Mars!) seems to me indicative that during the next few months the world will be at an important crossroad, the growing aspirations for meaningful changes (Aquarius) still held back by the powerful pull of the past and the way things have been done until now (highlight on conservative Capricorn).

For more insightful Astrology please visit my site: livingmoonastrology.com

Mary Mackillop, an illuminated and compassionate Aquarius/Pisces Moon

Photo courtesy of the Sisters of Saint Joseph, Penola

 

I published this post on the Astrology of Mary Mackillop on December 19 2009, the same day the pope declared her a Saint.
I am re-posting it now, with others I published in January 2019 and October 2010 (links below), to show the great potential of an evolved Aquarius/Pisces Moon cusp to contribute to the collective good. Like all Sun or Moon or Mercury Signs etc there are many levels of expression for each zodiacal placement and each planetary energy. In Mary Mackillop’s Birth Horoscope we can see a bright example of a life well spent, as she initiated positive cultural changes that are still very relevant today.

Mary Mackillop Second Post

Mary Mackillop Third Post

Here it is:

December 19, 2009

It seems now certain that Pope Benedict XVI will announce the historical beatification of Mary MacKillop tonight, 10 pm Australian Eastern Summer Time.

This intelligent teacher and nun, coming from a poor family of Scottish immigrants, will be the first person born on Australia soil to be recognized as a Saint and miracle maker, an important archetypal event, significant for all Australians, not just Australian Catholics.

There are many sites on the net that talk about Mary, giving detailed information about the most salient events in her life. Here are some:

http://www.sosj.org.au/mary/mary.html

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mary_MacKillop

Mary MacKillop’s was born on the 15th of January 1842 in Fitzroy, state of Victoria, Australia. Her time of birth is unknown, that’s why I have chosen to use the sunrise time for the day and place of her birth. It is very interesting to cast a chart of sunrise even when the time of birth of an individual is known because sunrise contains, in germ form, the destiny of every individual born on that day.
I have often derived much insight from the study of these sunrise horoscopes. To me they stand for those aspects of the individual’s life that connect it to the collective design of the Spirit; each degree of the Sun’s passage through the Ecliptic representing a ray of consciousness that will manifest, with different measure of brightness, in all individuals who begin their life journey on a particular day.

This is then Mary MacKillop’s Sunrise Chart, local time 4.59 am:

 

In this chart the Sun is in Capricorn and the Moon in Aquarius. It is however important to notice here that at 8.51 am the Moon entered the Sign of Pisces that day. Both Signs, Aquarius and Pisces can manifest in a personality given to feel for other people and naturally inclined to help. The fame of her compassion and claim to saintliness may suggest a Pisces Moon, compassionate, self-defacing and self-sacrificing; her chronic ill-health and love of animals could imply the same. While the fact that she contributed to the education of a great number of disadvantaged children by founding many schools in Australia rural communities and other countries would fit well the democratic vision and love of knowledge of an Aquarius Moon. Also her unconventional outlook and somewhat rebellious spirit that gained her the disapproval of the Catholic hierarchy of her time (she was excommunicated for a number of months in 1871) fits well the rebelliousness and independence of an Aquarius Moon.

I am quite happy then, without going to the trouble of rectifying her chart, to consider hers a cusp Aquarius-Pisces Moon.

The first obvious thing in this horoscope is the stellium (group of planets) in Capricorn, enhancing the practicality and hard-working tendencies of this remarkable woman, who displayed certainly strong leadership and organizing abilities, despite her humbleness.

All Cardinal Signs (Aries, Cancer, Libra, Capricorn) tend to display those qualities, each in its own special way; when it comes to Capricorn it is their ability to perform hard work and their ambitious goals that gain them respect and following. Capricorn and Cancer in particular often make excellent role models. The fact that so many planets, Mercury, Venus, Jupiter, Saturn, plus the Sun and North Node of the Moon, are all found in Capricorn shows a tremendous ability to focus, concentrating the practical and goal oriented qualities of Capricorn in a very effective, even extreme way.

This tendency toward extremism, even fanaticism, is indicated by the challenging right angle of some her Capricorn planets to Pluto, that, in the Sunrise horoscope resides in the ancestral sector, inclining her to break radically from the past. On the positive side this aspect indicated the deep wealth of resourcefulness she displayed and the strong will and determination that helped her to achieve some very ambitious goals, for a woman in that period in history, and a socially and economically disadvantaged one to boot. To confirm this Uranus was also in positive aspect to her Sun and Mercury, another proof of her unconventional outlook and strong individuality.

In the Sunrise Chart this rich conjunction is found in the Twelfth House, an appropriate position for a woman who decided very early in life to renounce the mundane world and to dedicate herself to God’s work. The twelfth sector of any horoscope in fact represents the area of experience through which, willing or not, we realize the futility of our ego desire and the impermanence of things, experiences that sometimes drive us to seek refuge in the spiritual dimension or in some form of escapism.

Another very interesting configuration in this Chart is the close conjunction of Jupiter to Saturn, often found in the horoscopes of people who succeed to make their dreams and aspirations (Jupiter) into living realities (Saturn), because they are driven by a vision and compelled to actualize it.

This conjunction may also point out Mary’s love and respect for her father (the one who took care of her education and religious instruction when she was growing up and supposedly inspired her to take up teaching) and perhaps to an excessive idealization of the man, and of older men in general. From her biography we learn how one reason why she decided to embrace the life of the cloister and her mission with the poor was her encounter with another father figure, Reverend Julian Tenison Woods, who became her instructor and mentor in the formative years before her Saturn’s return, at the age of thirty (around the time she was excommunicated by a Catholic bishop, for alleged insubordination).

Another interesting placement is that of the planet Neptune in Aquarius and in the Second House, the sector that has to do with our value system and also the way we are likely to derive an income. Neptune, planet of spirituality and renunciation, sits just on the cusp (the most sensitive point of every House) of Mary’s Values’ sector. This shows that the things she valued weren’t material possessions but belonged to the world of the Spirit. The best expression of this position of Neptune is a person born to give and ready to transmute the ego desires into selfless giving. The worst expression of the same is the tendency to be unrealistic and unpractical when it comes to money and possessions or even to rely on others for one’s own sustenance. By embracing the life of a nun Mary has manifested this aspect in an ideal way, by taking a vow of poverty and using her resources to help others in need, in particular the underdogs of the society she lived in.

To end this brief analysis of Mary MacKillop’s planetary positions I cannot overlook the role of Chiron in late Cancer, the only planet on the opposite hemisphere to the multiple conjunction in Capricorn. Chiron is in fact in opposition to her Sun and Mercury and perfectly conjunct the South Node of the Moon. This peculiar position helps this little planet acquire a greater importance in the interpretation of this Horoscope that it would otherwise have.

Looking at this Chart like one looks at a painting Chiron is like a splash of contrasting colour or a feature in an art work that continually shifts our visual attention from the main theme on the other side of the canvas.

Chiron in Cancer often shows a degree of frustration and a need for resignation in the area of nurturing. I found it sometimes in the Birth Charts of individuals, in particular women, who have suffered greatly through the inability of producing children or of properly nurturing or enjoying them. Like with all other Chiron’s position this is really an opportunity to utilize the apparent difficulty in order to gain greater awareness. Certainly Mary was able to sublimate her frustrated maternal instincts and inability to have children, due to her religious vow of chastity, in working all her life with children and for children. The conjunction Chiron-South Node of the Moon further exemplifies that her experience of chronic illness was a physical, perhaps hysterical expression of this inner conflict. The South Node always points out something that we need to relinquish, an experience or dimension of life that is part of the past, helping, at the unconscious level, to build the future (North Node), while, at the same time, in need to be forsaken in this life-time.

In the Sunrise Chart Chiron and the South Node are also found in the Relationship sector Seventh House), showing that close, one to one relationships have somehow to be renounced for the greater good, her work and the driven, all devouring ambition symbolized by the multiple conjunction in ambitious and workaholic Capricorn.

Finally the Chiron’s effect seems even more significant in the light of the miraculous cures that have been attributed to the intercession of Mary MacKillop, in life as well after her death, and that are the basis of her beatification. We cannot forget that Chiron is the wounded healer of archetypal legends, able to heal others while unable to offer a cure to himself, because the experience of suffering was central to his character and destiny.

Vega, the alpha star of Lyra, the Harp constellation, is conjunct Mary’s Venus, while Altair, the alpha star of Aquila, the Eagle, is conjunct her Mercury. Vega is traditionally said to add a strong charisma to the personality and conjunct Venus, the planet of femininity, gave Mary the power to attract that made her bossy temperament more fascinating and subtle. This is the instrument of Orpheus, the enchanter who was able to bridge the gap between the realms of life and death through the magic of his music. People influenced by Vega can be very persuasive and attract following.

Altair, on the other hand, is also a fortunate star, indicating the strength and courage to pursue one’s goals in life, and certainly Mary had plenty of that too. Because it is Mercury that is in contact with this powerful star the Eagle’s qualities would have influenced in particular her intellect and communication skills. According to Bernadette Brady through this star we are able to act quickly and decisively, seizing the moment, while its darker side can be aggression and forcefulness. With the Moon conjunct Mars, even from the delicate and non aggressive Sign of Pisces, Mary was a born militant, ready to fight for what she believed was right and God’s will. Mars in Pisces embodies remarkably well her power to act and be assertive when motivated by compassion and concern for human welfare and spirituality.

The Capricorn New Moon just prior to her birth (on January 12) coincided with a Solar Eclipse. During this eclipse the multiple conjunction in Capricorn had its heyday, enhancing the destiny making qualities of this rare configuration.

A look at this Eclipse will make this more clear.

 

As you can see the Solar Fire program, used to generate this Chart, makes the glyph of the celestial bodies forming the mighty Capricorn conjunction to overlap one another, in order to fit them all in such a limited area of the Zodiac.

Even if some will doubt the veracity of her miracles no one would deny that this humble and socially disadvantaged woman was an amazing miracle worker and accomplished incredible feats of compassion that still live in her name today.

I have a lot more to say about Mary MacKillop’s Chart and the Transits and Progressions that constellated the major events in her life, and those that are still activating her horoscope today.

The Waxing Moon transits Libra from Wednesday, May 15, to Friday, May 17, between the Leo First Quarter and the Libra Gibbous Moon Phases

Hand Painted Fabric

LIBRA, Moon of justice and harmony
Cooperative and artistic

The WAXING MOON TRANSITS LIBRA from Wednesday, May 15, 5.40 am,
to Friday, May 17, 7.25 am, with the ingress into SCORPIO

Suitable energy for sharing, decorating, being artistic, holding meeting, conflict resolution, diplomatic missions, weddings, engagements, parties, gifts, fantasy reading, falling in love, hairdressing, making oneself beautiful. Purchase of articles of clothing, cosmetics, furnishings, flowers, jewellery, art equipment. Action motivated by the desire to meet others half way, to be fair, to agree and harmonize. Amiable display of feeling, seeking equality, idealistic, cooperative. Beware of indecisiveness, lack of assertion, wishy-washy attitudes, peace at any cost syndrome, vanity, self indulgence.

• In the garden Libra, unlike the other two Air Signs, Aquarius and Gemini, is traditionally considered fertile and productive. Being a Sign of Venus, goddess of pleasure and beauty, Libra is an ideal Sign to sow and transplant flowering plants and ornamental, and also herbs which help to balance the Elements in the body. Libra encourages bloom, but few seeds.
• Healing Herbs:Corn Silk, Parsley, Uva ursi

A note: the garden activities associated with the Moon Sign depend also on the cycle the Moon is in. The Moon transiting through a fertile or productive Sign will no be so favorable if the Phase is not a productive one, and vice-versa. For best results the Sign and Phase of the Moon have to be considered together.

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First Quarter

The LEO FIRST QUARTER MOON PHASE starts on Sunday, May 12, 11.12 am,
and ends on Wednesday, May 15, 8.30 pm, with the LIBRA GIBBOUS MOON PHASE

The Moon is now 90 degrees ahead of the Sun, a right angle, very powerful. We meet some serious obstacle on our way. The goal is still strongly in view (Full Moon) but something or someone seem intent at stopping us or hinder our progress. This is the most critical point in the waxing period. It is important that we meet the challenge now, but it is also essential that we don’t go to war with people around us, blaming them for our difficulties, which are instead just a natural phase of our journey. There is something a bit black and white in this Moon’s position and the attention is perhaps focused too much on outside circumstances.

• In the garden this is the demarcation time between the first and second weeks of the Moon cycle, an important boundary, because different types of plants can now go in, those we grow for their fruit or seedpods (tomatoes, beans etc.). The Moon needs also to be transiting a fertile or productive Sign.

Gibbous Moon

The LIBRA GIBBOUS MOON PHASE starts on Wednesday, May 15, 8.30 pm,
and ends on Sunday, May 19, 7.11 am, with the SCORPIO FULL MOON PHASE

The Moon is waxing, 135 degrees ahead of the Sun, only 45 degrees or three and half days to the Full Moon. The Moon shows a strange shape now, like a rugby ball. Our goals are becoming more clear and we can power ahead, not too concerned about possible obstacles on our path. The power of attraction of the Full Moon proves irresistible.

• In the garden as in life there should be plenty of activities and a sense of urgency, least one should waste the great energy available at the moment. When the Moon transits a very fertile Sign like Cancer, Scorpio, Pisces, or a productive Sign like Taurus, Libra and Capricorn in this phase practically every plant and seed can go into the garden successfully. This is the middle of the second waxing week. Ideally, after sowing or planting leafy vegetables in the first week, we should be busy putting in those plants we grow for their fruit or seedpods (tomatoes, beans, etc.).

The Waxing Moon transits Virgo from Monday, May 13, to Wednesday, May 15, during the Leo First Quarter Moon Phase

‘Saint Agnes’ by Antonio Franceschini

VIRGO, Moon of humility and craftsmanship
Purifying and healing

The WAXING MOON TRANSITS VIRGO from Monday, May 13, 2.21 am,
to Wednesday, May 15, 5.40 am, with the ingress into LIBRA

Suitable energy for general and menial work, in particular jobs that require attention to details and great patience, crafts, knitting, sewing, cooking, mending, cleaning, nursing, volunteering, accounting, studying, researching, testing, purifying, collecting, classifying, putting order into chaos. Purchase of craft materials and tools, collectibles, pets. Action motivated by practical needs, daily routine, taking care of the body learning to discriminate and to perfect. Timid expression of feeling, sometimes prickly, always helpful at the practical level. Beware of hyper-criticism, a calculating attitude, lack of grace, inhibitions, phobias, hypochondria, feelings of unworthiness.

• In the garden Despite the earthy nature and the symbolic ear of corn in the Maiden’s left hand* Virgo is considered barren. Plants will supposedly grow spindly, tough and woody if planted on the Virgo Moon. The Sign is great however for tidying up the garden, work bee days, and fertilizing.
• Healing Herbs: Blackberry, Fennel, Flax.

A note: the garden activities associated with the Moon Sign depend also on the cycle the Moon is in. The Moon transiting through a fertile or productive Sign will no be so favorable if the Phase is not a productive one, and vice-versa. For best results the Sign and Phase of the Moon have to be considered together.

First Quarter

The LEO FIRST QUARTER MOON PHASE starts on Sunday, May 12, 11.12 am,
and ends on Wednesday, May 15, 8.30 pm, with the LIBRA GIBBOUS MOON PHASE

The Moon is now 90 degrees ahead of the Sun, a right angle, very powerful. We meet some serious obstacle on our way. The goal is still strongly in view (Full Moon) but something or someone seem intent at stopping us or hinder our progress. This is the most critical point in the waxing period. It is important that we meet the challenge now, but it is also essential that we don’t go to war with people around us, blaming them for our difficulties, which are instead just a natural phase of our journey. There is something a bit black and white in this Moon’s position and the attention is perhaps focused too much on outside circumstances.

• In the garden this is the demarcation time between the first and second weeks of the Moon cycle, an important boundary, because different types of plants can now go in, those we grow for their fruit or seedpods (tomatoes, beans etc.). The Moon needs also to be transiting a fertile or productive Sign.

The Waxing Moon transits Leo from late Friday, May 10, to early Monday, May 13, between the Cancer Crescent and the Leo First Quarter Moon Phases

White Lion in my dream

LEO, Moon of creativity and passion
Warm and fun loving

The WAXING MOON TRANSITS LEO from Friday, May 10, 11.13 pm,
to Monday, May 13, 2.21 am, with the ingress into VIRGO

Suitable energy for creative work, especially of the visual type, display, fun, joy, drama, theater, inspiration, organization, leisure, pleasure, vacation, spending fun times with the children, being a child again, love making, romance, passion. Purchase of jewellery, gold, precious objects, luxury items, cats. Action motivated by spontaneous need for self expression. Dramatic display of generous feelings, warm hearted, loyal, passionate, but somewhat egotistic. Beware of domineering and controlling attitudes, ego inflation, extremes of passion, exaggeration, arrogance, pride.

• In the garden Leo, like all the other Fire Signs, is traditionally considered too hot, dry and barren for growing anything. Its energy is very suitable instead for cultivating, general maintenance, pruning, pest control, weeding, and harvesting. Great Moon time for designing the garden, introducing ornamental objects and features, and, of course, Garden Parties.
• Healing Herbs: Borage, Hawthorn, Motherwort.

A note: the garden activities associated with the Moon Sign depend also on the cycle the Moon is in. The Moon transiting through a fertile or productive Sign will no be so favorable if the Phase is not a productive one, and vice-versa. For best results the Sign and Phase of the Moon have to be considered together.

Crescent Moon

The CANCER CRESCENT MOON PHASE starts on Wednesday, May 8, 11.50 pm,
and ends on Sunday, May 12, 11.12 am, with the LEO FIRST QUARTER MOON PHASE

The Crescent Moon occurs half way through the first week of the Waxing cycle, when the Moon is transiting 45 degrees ahead of the Sun and looks like a beautiful crescent in the western sky after sunset. Psychologically this is an enthusiastic time, in which lots of ideas crowd our mind and we may feel that the sky is the limit. It is a slightly naïve Moon time, but also one full of hopes and dreams (the bright crescent shows now the shadowy sphere of the future Full Moon. The energy of the Moon however needs maturing at this stage and grounding. The first difficulties may appear, the first chinks in the armour; but the challenge is not strong enough yet for us to build up on it.

• In the garden this is an excellent growing time: everything can go in now, but in particular leafy vegetables and all plants that we grow for their above the ground parts, but only when the Moon is transiting through the very fertile Water Signs or the productive Signs Taurus, Libra and Capricorn.

First Quarter

The  LEO FIRST QUARTER MOON PHASE starts on Sunday, May 12, 11.12 am,
and ends on Wednesday, May 15, 8.30 pm, with the LIBRA GIBBOUS MOON PHASE

The Moon is now 90 degrees ahead of the Sun, a right angle, very powerful. We meet some serious obstacle on our way. The goal is still strongly in view (Full Moon) but something or someone seem intent at stopping us or hinder our progress. This is the most critical point in the waxing period. It is important that we meet the challenge now, but it is also essential that we don’t go to war with people around us, blaming them for our difficulties, which are instead just a natural phase of our journey. There is something a bit black and white in this Moon’s position and the attention is perhaps focused too much on outside circumstances.

• In the garden this is the demarcation time between the first and second weeks of the Moon cycle, an important boundary, because different types of plants can now go in, those we grow for their fruit or seedpods (tomatoes, beans etc.). The Moon needs also to be transiting a fertile or productive Sign.

The Waxing Moon transits Cancer from Wednesday, May 8, to late Friday, May 10, during the Cancer Crescent Moon Phase

Vanity Fair 1924 Cover

CANCER, Water Moon of nurture and imagination
Caring and home maker

The WAXING MOON TRANSITS CANCER from Wednesday, May 8, 7.06 pm,
to Friday, May 10, 11.13 pm, with the ingress into LEO

Suitable energy for home making, looking after the children, nursing the sick, care taking, budgeting, op. shopping, feeding the hungry, cleaning, doing the laundry, recycling, storytelling, creative writing, fantasy or history reading, teaching, psychic insight, intuition. Purchase of children’s clothes, house hold items, blankets, antiques, houses and real estate. Action motivated by sympathetic response and the need to stick to what is familiar and safe. Self protective, reserved in display of feelings, caring. Beware of excessive mothering, dependency, personal bias, emotional manipulation, fear.

• In the garden Cancer is one of the most, if not the most fertile of all Signs. Everything should do well when planted in Cancer, if the Moon is in the right phase. Plants particularly associated with Cancer are those with a high water content, such as Cucumbers, Lettuce, Melons. Cancer is also suitable for propagating cuttings, grafting and deep irrigation.
• Healing Herbs: Papaya leaf, Peppermint, Spearmint.

A note: the garden activities associated with the Moon Sign depend also on the cycle the Moon is in. The Moon transiting through a fertile or productive Sign will no be so favorable if the Phase is not a productive one, and vice-versa. For best results the Sign and Phase of the Moon have to be considered together.

Crescent Moon

The CANCER CRESCENT MOON PHASE starts on Wednesday, May 8, 11.50 pm,
and ends on Sunday, May 12, 11.12 am, with the LEO FIRST QUARTER MOON PHASE

The Crescent Moon occurs half way through the first week of the Waxing cycle, when the Moon is transiting 45 degrees ahead of the Sun and looks like a beautiful crescent in the western sky after sunset. Psychologically this is an enthusiastic time, in which lots of ideas crowd our mind and we may feel that the sky is the limit. It is a slightly naïve Moon time, but also one full of hopes and dreams (the bright crescent shows now the shadowy sphere of the future Full Moon. The energy of the Moon however needs maturing at this stage and grounding. The first difficulties may appear, the first chinks in the armour; but the challenge is not strong enough yet for us to build up on it.

• In the garden this is an excellent growing time: everything can go in now, but in particular leafy vegetables and all plants that we grow for their above the ground parts, but only when the Moon is transiting through the very fertile Water Signs or the productive Signs Taurus, Libra and Capricorn.

The Waxing Moon transits Gemini from Monday, May 6, to Wednesday, May 8, during the Taurus New Moon Phase

‘Two Girls Brand, Kwong Sang Hong’s 1932 commercial poster by Kwan Wai-nung

GEMINI, Moon of mental flexibility and communication
Inquisitive and social

The WAXING MOON TRANSITS GEMINI from Monday, May 6, 1.39 pm,
to Wednesday, May 8, 7.06 pm, with the ingress into CANCER

Suitable energy for traveling, studying, researching, reading, writing, teaching, moving, walking, running, advertising, talking, brain storming, contact with siblings, computer work, accounting, graphic designing, artistic skills. Purchase of books, magazines, school gear, cars, bikes, art equipment. Quick action, rapid response, motivated by present circumstances and the curiosity to know. Adaptable mental energy. Friendly, sisterly, brotherly feelings, independent, needing change and variety. Beware of inconstancy, nervousness, irritability, mental games, gossips, double dealings, cold intellectualism, superficiality.

• In the garden Gemini is considered too dry and barren for growing anything. Its energy is suitable for cultivating, general maintenance, pruning, pest control, weeding, and harvesting. Today the energy could be right for designing the garden, for parties and get-togethers with friends and siblings.
• Healing Herbs: Coltsfoot, Hyssop, Lemon Balm, Mullein.

A note: the garden activities associated with the Moon Sign depend also on the cycle the Moon is in. The Moon transiting through a fertile or productive Sign will no be so favorable if the Phase is not a productive one, and vice-versa. For best results the Sign and Phase of the Moon have to be considered together.

Taurus New Moon, May 5, 8.45 am.

The New Moon

The TAURUS NEW MOON PHASE starts on Sunday, May 5, 8.45 am,
and ends on Wednesday, May 8, 11.50 pm, with the CANCER CRESCENT MOON PHASE.

The New Moon is the beginning of the Waxing cycle, the sacred marriage of Moon and Sun, Yin and Yang, Night and Day. For three days the Moon becomes invisible. Astrologically we say that the Moon is now conjunct the Sun (on the same degree of Longitude along the Ecliptic). Every month the New Moon occurs in a different Sign. So the Aries New Moon in March/April is always followed by the Taurus New Moon in April/May and so on. New Moons are symbols of new beginning and represent a great time to start something or make important changes in our lives. The energy is right for everything new you would like to try.

• In the garden this is traditionally a time to begin sowing and planting because the increasing Moon light will help plants to emerge and flourish. Moisture becomes more and more available as the light of the Moon intensifies, up to the Full Moon. Traditionally however no sowing or planting are recommended within twelve hours of the phase itself.

The Waning/Waxing Moon transits Taurus from Saturday, May 4, to Monday, May 6, between the Pisces Balsamic and the Taurus New Moon Phases

Europa (and the Bull of Heaven) by William Turner

TAURUS, Moon of contemplation and contentment
Loyal and sensual

The WANING/WAXING MOON TRANSITS TAURUS from  Saturday May 4, 6.17 am,
to Monday, May 6, 1.39 pm, with the ingress into GEMINI

Suitable energy for practical activities, making money, business, building, engineering, woodworking, sculpting, pottery, cooking, massage, healing, meditating, contemplating, being still and content, artistic, sensual. All pleasurable activities. Purchase of beautiful objects, furniture, furnishings, clothes, flowers, art works, jewellery, land. Slow, deliberate action, motivated by the desire for security and ease. Determination, use of will power. Affectionate, sensual display of feelings, supportive and loyal. Beware of laziness, self indulgence, stubbornness, intolerance, prejudice, jealousy.

•   In the garden Taurus is considered a fairly productive Sign, especially suitable for Root Crops, like potatoes and carrots, helping to strengthen the root system and to make plants sturdier. It is also a great Sign for Flower Bulbs and other ornamental plants, being sacred to Venus. Great time to be lazy in the garden, lull in a hammock and watch the grass grow.
• Healing Herbs: Fenugreek, Liquorice, Slippery Elm.

A note: the garden activities associated with the Moon Sign depend also on the cycle the Moon is in. The Moon transiting through a fertile or productive Sign will no be so favorable if the Phase is not a productive one, and vice-versa. For best results the Sign and Phase of the Moon have to be considered together.

Balsamic Moon

Pisces
Balsamic Moon
May 1, 11.17 am.

The PISCES BALSAMIC MOON PHASE starts on Wednesday, May 1, 11.16 am,
and ends on Sunday, May 5, 8.45 am, with the TAURUS NEW MOON PHASE

The Moon is 45 degrees behind the Sun, only three and half days to New Moon. The Moon light is decreasing rapidly and the lunar energy is now being stored as nutrients in the seeds of future plants. It is also the calm before the storm of activities of the New Moon. Time for contemplation, self reflection and healing. The title Balsamic Moon is derived from the word ‘balsam’, unguent which helps to relieve pain and cure ills. During this time we could distil the essence of our past experience, from the last New Moon up to this point, reflect upon what we have experienced and learnt, getting psychologically ready for the cycle which is about to open. This is a spiritual phase, more suitable for meditation and relaxation than action.

• In the garden it is certainly no time for planting or sowing, but it is ideal for cultivation, soil conditioning, eradicating pests and unwanted plants and to prune in order to retard growth.

Taurus New Moon, May 5, 8.45 am.

The New Moon

The TAURUS NEW MOON PHASE PHASE starts on Sunday, May 5, 8.45 am,
and ends on Wednesday, May 8, 11.50 pm, with the CANCER CRESCENT MOON PHASE

The New Moon is the beginning of the Waxing cycle, the sacred marriage of Moon and Sun, Yin and Yang, Night and Day. For three days the Moon becomes invisible. Astrologically we say that the Moon is now conjunct the Sun (on the same degree of Longitude along the Ecliptic). Every month the New Moon occurs in a different Sign. So the Aries New Moon in March/April is always followed by the Taurus New Moon in April/May and so on. New Moons are symbols of new beginning and represent a great time to start something or make important changes in our lives. The energy is right for everything new you would like to try.

• In the garden this is traditionally a time to begin sowing and planting because the increasing Moon light will help plants to emerge and flourish. Moisture becomes more and more available as the light of the Moon intensifies, up to the Full Moon. Traditionally however no sowing or planting are recommended within twelve hours of the phase itself.

The Waning Moon transits Aries from Wednesday, May 1, to Friday, May 3, during the Pisces Balsamic Moon Phase

‘The Red Tree’ by Shaun Tan

ARIES, Moon of initiative and action
Energetic and fiery

The WANING MOON TRANSITS ARIES from Wednesday, May 1, 8.23 pm,
to Friday May 4 6.17 am, with the ingress into TAURUS

Suitable energy for taking on challenges, participating in competitions, performing daring feats, arduous exercises, physical work, to begin new ventures, or to perform action for its own sake. Purchase of sporting gear, protective gear, hats, tools, stoves, firewood, machinery, cars, bikes, leather objects. The mood is decisive, enterprising, impulsive, militant, spirited, visionary. Honest, direct expression of feelings, strong instinct, but somewhat insensitive. Beware of emotional extremes, head strong, bossy, uncompromising attitudes, lack of empathy, antagonism, aggression, selfishness.

• In the garden Aries is traditionally considered too hot, dry and barren for growing anything. Its energy is very suitable instead for cultivating, general maintenance, pruning, pest control, weeding, and harvesting. Plants sown with the Moon in Aries will soon go to seed, due to this Sign’s notorious impatience. Suitable only for early crops.
• Healing Herbs: Burdock, Gotu Kola, Red Clover.

A note: the garden activities associated with the Moon Sign depend also on the cycle the Moon is in. The Moon transiting through a fertile or productive Sign will no be so favorable if the Phase is not a productive one, and vice-versa. For best results the Sign and Phase of the Moon have to be considered together.

Balsamic Moon

The PISCES BALSAMIC MOON PHASE starts on Wednesday, May 1, 11.16 am,
and ends on Sunday, May 5, 8.45 am, with the TAURUS NEW MOON PHASE

The Moon is 45 degrees behind the Sun, only three and half days to New Moon. The Moon light is decreasing rapidly and the lunar energy is now being stored as nutrients in the seeds of future plants. It is also the calm before the storm of activities of the New Moon. Time for contemplation, self reflection and healing. The title Balsamic Moon is derived from the word ‘balsam’, unguent which helps to relieve pain and cure ills. During this time we could distill the essence of our past experience, from the last New Moon up to this point, reflect upon what we have experienced and learnt, getting psychologically ready for the cycle which is about to open. This is a spiritual phase, more suitable for meditation and relaxation than action.

• In the garden it is certainly no time for planting or sowing, but it is ideal for cultivation, soil conditioning, eradicating pests and unwanted plants and to prune in order to retard growth.

May 2019 astrological updates: Ephemeris, Astro-Calendar, All Transits, All Lunar Phases, All Ingresses into Signs and Retro Periods

Pisces Balsamic Moon, May 1, 11.17 am.

Taurus New Moon, May 5, 8.45 am.

Cancer Crescent Moon, May 8, 11.50 pm.

Leo First Quarter Moon, May 12, 11.12 am.

Libra Gibbous Moon, May 15, 8.30 pm.

Scorpio Full Moon, May 19, 7.11 am.

Capricorn Disseminating Moon, May 23, 0.52 am.

Pisces Last Quarter Moon, May 27, 2.33 am.

Hi, friends of astrology.

Just letting you know that I have updated my site with all the information astrological seekers may need in the month of MAY 2019.

I have posted links to All Transits active in May (including the Moon’s and minor aspects); All Sun, Moon and Planets ingress into Signs; All Moon Phases, including the intermediate, such as Crescent, Gibbous, Disseminating and Balsamic; the May 2019 monthly Ephemeris, which includes the positions of the four major Asteroids, Ceres, Juno, Pallas and Vesta; as well as the Black Moon Lilith.
Also the May 2019 Solar Fire Astro-Calendar with the list of All the Moon Voids of Course.
Cheers

Click this link to view/print a LIST OF ALL TRANSITS ACTIVE in MAY 2019.

• Click this link to view/print the dates and times of the MOON’s PHASES for the month of MAY 2019.
• Click this link to view/print the dates and times of the MOON, SUN and PLANETS’ ingress into Signs for the month of MAY 2019, plus ALL PLANETARY RETRO and DIRECT PERIODS.

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