April astrology; A major solar eclipse, retrograde Mercury and Jupiter conjuncts Uranus!

 

This month we will experience a total solar eclipse at 19 degrees of Aries. The eclipse will cross much of the US and this is the last total solar eclipse we will experience for 20 years. Jupiter conjuncts  Uranus in April and Mercury is retrograde most of the month. The Sun transits from Aries to Taurus and Venus moves from Pisces into Aries. Mars remains in Pisces and Saturn in Pisces hits the halfway mark. We will experience a new moon in Aries and a full moon in Scorpio. Now the details.

Mercury retrogrades

The planet of communication turns retrograde April 1^st-25^th in Aries.

The next three weeks may be a period where things seem at a standstill, especially our outward action. On an inner level however, we can accomplish a great deal.

Mercury turns retrograde 3 or 4 times a year, and generally has a bad name.  To an extent this is perfectly understandable, as retrograde Mercury is the planet that causes delays, glitches, breakdowns in computers and equipment, relationships, slowdowns and brings hidden factors to the surface. Plans can be put on hold, miscommunication can occur, relationships can end or change, and any kind of machinery can break down at the most inopportune moment.

When planets retrograde, their effects on humans are different than when in direct motion. Thinking is deeper, situations often appear to go underground for a time, or change altogether, and sometimes our focus shifts.

The first phase of retrograde Mercury is the pre-retrograde shadow period which began March 19th. This period is when Mercurial energy starts to shift and is typically noticeable in terms of being forgetful.

The second phase of retrograde Mercury is the stationary retrograde period, when Mercury starts to shift into apparent backward motion. This happens April 1-3rd, when Mercury begins its retrograde. This is when most glitches start to become evident, and thinking may become extra foggy. Stay alert!

Mercury continues to retrograde through April 25th, when it turns stationary direct for the next several days. This is the second period when glitches, breakdowns and changes in direction may well occur. It can get worse before it gets better!

Mercury begins to move forward again on April 27th, but remains in the post direct shadow phase phase until May 13th. Mercurial energy does not pick up its normal pace until completion of the second shadow period.

 The total solar eclipse in Aries April 8th

This eclipse may seem positive or negative depending on what it aspects in your personal chart.  Eclipses can be especially dramatic if it aspects a significant point in your chart and often bring news pertaining to some of life's biggest events as well as significant events that affect the world. Unexpected information can come to light and something may be eclipsed into or completely out of your life. It can be a time of new beginnings.

Eclipses affect the charts of countries just as they do people. The last total eclipse we experienced was in Leo August 2017 and was referred to as the ‘Great American eclipse.’ That eclipse literally divided the country as it crossed the USA. Some astrologers believe that events can occur along the eclipse path and places where the eclipse can be viewed from are ripe for change in society, overall culture or leadership. 2017 certainly was the year the US became ‘divided’ politically and it was a period of drastic change and the beginning of 7 years of political upheaval in the US that continues.

This month’s total solar eclipse can be seen in much of the US and is also considered a Super Moon. While the 2017 eclipse began on the West Coast, the 2024 eclipse begins on the East Coast. The 2 eclipse paths (2017 and 2024) cross each other around San Antonio Texas. The key spot however seems to be Carbondale, Ill.

Once again the eclipse divides the country as it crosses the US. Can we expect the political and social divisions to continue? Absolutely. Could this further divide the country into even more factions?  Good chance. If you look at a map of the 2 eclipse paths (there are many on the internet) you will see the majority of the South in a section of it's own. These are the same states that are banning abortion, trying to take away IVS from women who want to use it and are fighting against LGBTQ rights.

The eclipse in Aries is ruled by Mars the planet of action, change and in some cases fighting, aggression and even war. Mars rules the military, police and ‘warrior’ types of people.

On the other hand Mars can confer courage and action, and with the eclipse in the sign of Aries we can expect to see a surge of innovation and new ideas this year.

Aries is the first sign of the zodiac, and in astrology the focus of Aries is the 1^st house or the self. We will see many different factions fighting for their personal beliefs and agendas at this time.

Solar eclipses repeat themselves every 19 years. We experienced a solar eclipse at 19 degrees of Aries on April 8, 2005 and April 9, 1986. In April 2005 Pope John Paul II passed away, the conflict/war in Iraq was going on, and the year saw more than one natural disaster including Hurricane Katrina. In 1986 138 FDIC banks failed and the 4^th reactor at Chernobyl nuclear power plant exploded. These are just a sampling of events that occurred around these last 2 solar eclipses in Aries at 19 degrees.

Let’s take a look at the aspects that will affect the April 8^th eclipse in the US and what we can expect;

-The Aries eclipse falls in the US Sibly chart 4^th house which rules general and political stability, natural disasters and housing as well as the homeland/homeland security. It opposes Saturn which rules the government, leadership and Congress. The opposition shows a conflict potentially between branches of government and the President. The Moon also rules popular sentiment and its opposition to Saturn in the US chart is not light hearted in any sense.

Coming to terms with partnerships of all types will be important on a collective level.

-This Moon is a Super Moon which means it will appear bigger, brighter and closer to the Earth. Super moons are known to be associated with major earth related events such as tsunamis, earthquakes and other disasters.

-This Moon/eclipse is conjunct Chiron, known as the wounded healer along with the North Node. When Chiron is aspected it brings up deep seated wounds that need to be healed; there is a wounding of the people in the US that needs to be dealt with. In other words, people who are hurt tend to hurt others in return and the cycle continues. Transiting Chiron conjunct the Moon is square both Mercury and Pluto in the US (Sibly) natal chart 8^th and 2^nd houses. This shows us that a transformation is needed in terms of both communication between the government, people and even some media outlets (or social media) and who receives financial benefits versus who does not. Pluto is also connected to the very powerful, systems of power such as Congress and other bodies, and unhappiness among the population concerning some of those in power and making the rules. Chiron is conjunct the Moon which rules women. Women have suffered a loss of reproductive rights in the US with a continued threat of the further erosion of more rights.

The North Node represents Karmic or fated events as it does with every eclipse.

-Saturn and Mars are conjunct at 13/14 degrees of Pisces and this aspect is exact April 10th. This is a harsh aspect that can lean toward volatility and even violence. This aspect has the potential to bring about war or war like circumstances or situations that involve police or military.

-With Mars sextile Jupiter the possibility of compassion is possible both at home and abroad.

-Mercury is retrograde at 24 degrees of Aries. Retrograde Mercury is known for revealing previously unknown information. When an eclipse occurs with retrograde Mercury, events connected to the eclipse may be delayed, usually by a matter of days. Mercury rules all communication so with its retrograde the information we receive may not be correct or accurate in some way or we may not get all of the information. Mercury also involves commerce, travel and young people.

Mercury’s square to Pluto in the US chart represents power struggles between those in authority, important news and financial decisions. It is an aspect of propaganda and those who try and push their beliefs on others.

-Jupiter is conjunct Uranus and this is one of the most significant astrological events of 2024. This aspect is connected with events related to Taurus; money, women, food/farming and beauty. Taurus is connected to the Earth so we could see an increase in climate changes or weather related events this year. This can represent innovations as well as unexpected issues.

In conclusion, this is a fiery powerful eclipse ruled by Mars the planet of warrior energy, wars and innovation that will affect the US for months to come. We can expect political bickering and important news and debate that could include a prominent death or relate to death in some other way as well as lawsuits and legal issues. Aries is the sign of pioneering innovation and doesn’t let grass grow under its feet. While this eclipse points to many contentious issues it will also be a catalyst for new ideas and change in many areas. In some respects this will be an exciting time with many new developments and ideas that will come to light in the near future.

Venus enters Aries

Venus enters Mars’ sign on April 5^th and will remain in this sign until April 29^th, when it enters Taurus.

Venus in Aries will bring about a bolder, more assertive and active approach to the things Venus rules; love, beauty and art, money and values.

While it transits through Aries, Venus is in action planet Mar’s sign and will signal greater passions, energy and action directed toward Venusian pursuits; especially love. We may feel more assertive in connecting with those we are most attracted to and want to get to know better, and seek a fresher, more exciting approach with those we are already involved with. Confidence is a trait associated with Aries so we could see our confidence soar along with our passions.

As Aries is the first sign of the zodiac, Venus in Aries offers us a fresh start in terms of relationships, money and determining where our true values really lie. We will yearn for new experiences and desire to be more spontaneous in terms of our social lives and those we may be interested in. Often this transit brings out a longing for new and exciting adventures and experiences.

Venus in Aries will work especially well for Fire and Air signs. Aries energy is enthusiastic and upbeat, and Aries loves the chase to the point of sometimes being more interested in the chase than a relationship once a connection is established.

 

Venus is considered at its detriment in Aries so the energies don’t operate as smoothly as Venus in Pisces that we have just left behind for another year.

The downside of Venus-Aries is impatience, immaturity, brashness and self centeredness.  For a relationship to last longer than the chase there must be plenty of new stimulation and excitement on a regular basis. Competition is a familiar concept to Aries, but this is not something that turns everyone on. Aries often operates on whims without thinking things through completely. If it comes down to putting self or the feelings of their partner first, Aries-Venus is prone to protect their own feelings and interests first.

 

Now is the time to embrace your ability to be bold, adventurous, sexy and confident. You may be surprised at how fearless and undaunted you feel over this next month and you may surprise others as well. Above all else, Venus in Aries loves fun, playfulness and adventure so enjoy the feelings of confidence and the childlike spontaneity this transit of Venus can confer.

 Jupiter conjuncts Uranus

Jupiter is conjunct Uranus and this aspect lasts all month. The peak of this unpredictable transit is on April 20^th but we will feel the energy all month and into early May.

Jupiter is the planet of gain and expansion and Uranus is the transit of the unexpected. While this aspect can go either way, I do lean toward the positive, especially if this aspects something in your chart in a positive manner. If it is squaring or opposing something it could go the other way, unless other strong aspects are present.

Uranus is the planet of unexpected events. This occurs about every 14 years and in 2011 we experienced this aspect in Pisces and here is what I wrote; “Jupiter conjunct Uranus (January 1-22) has coincided with major flooding in the world each time the two planets have joined together during the past year.  Whatever Jupiter touches it expands, and Pisces rules water.  Australia is bearing the brunt of this transit as this post is written as floodwaters reach historic proportions the first week of January. In Arkansas thousands of birds have dropped from the sky, and dead fish are washing ashore, with the cause unknown at this time.  Other areas around the world are at risk of escalated weather conditions as well, as the energy of the January 4 eclipse in Capricorn continues to play out.”

This time the aspect occurs at 21 degrees of Taurus. Taurus is another Earth sign so we may well experience earth related events once again such as earthquakes. The ruler of Taurus is Venus and Venus rules money, women, beauty, finances and values so we may see some shakeups in these areas.

I would not expect the negative in your personal life but I would also not take big chances with things that are not likely to pay off or speculation. That said, Jupiter and Uranus are sometimes called ‘gambler’s transits.”

Uranus is all about freedom. People may leave jobs, relationships or anything else they find oppressive. In past periods this transit has been tied to the Moon landing (July 20^th, 1969) and the French revolution. Many things will happen around the world, and many people will try and break free from oppressive restrictions. If this is the case, breaking away will be experienced in a positive way. Unexpected opportunities may come your way so be aware of what is happening around you.

April 23’s Full Moon in Scorpio

The spring eclipses are now over and we will experience a Full Moon at 4 degrees of Scorpio. Scorpio rules the 8^th house of taxes/debt, other people’s money, change/transformation and death and renewal. Its planetary ruler is Mars the planet of action and the ‘God of War.’

This full moon will be intense due to its square to Pluto. Moon-Pluto transits deal with issues concerning women, home, the emotional life, unexpected revelations and feelings of an obsessive nature. Its best to avoid feelings of jealousy and control as it could blow up in your face.

This can bring up deep seated issues from the past, especially since Mercury is still retrograde. There may be issues at home or with the family and feelings may be on edge at this time.

Some relationships can end as well as other matters that have outlived their time. This can be a time of intense emotional turmoil or alternatively it can be a time of personal regeneration or transformation with a great deal of effort. Pluto aspects tend to dig beneath the surface which can be good or bad. It will be up to you whether to let sleeping dogs lie or bring up deep seated issues that have the potential of creating far reaching emotional responses.

This could also be an aspect of propaganda or others trying to force their feelings and reactions on you or others.

The Sun enters Taurus April 19-May 20th

This is the Taurus season when the seeds we planted with the Sun in Aries begin to grow just like the plants in our gardens.

The Sun in Taurus is a time to get steady on our feet, grounded, and turn our attention to the more material concerns of life. Taurus is typically a relaxed, sociable period as Venus is the ruler of the sign. Venus rules love, money and our values and this is where our attention will be focused over the next month.

With Venus as the star of the show, we tend to become more social, relaxed and interested in the more material joys and concerns of life such as beautiful objects and surroundings, clothes and perhaps a new hair style and what might be considered the finer things in life. This includes all things pleasant to our senses; sensuality, art, beauty and often rich foods. Now is the time to treat ourselves to things like spas, flowers even binge watching our favorite shows and just kicking back for a while. Taurus is the time to cultivate and develop a sense of deep security and personal comfort.

While Aries is all about new beginnings, Taurus is a far more relaxed period when we can enjoy a more slow paced time and all the newness and beauty that spring typically brings. We are often drawn to the outdoors during the Taurus season and can enjoy hikes or long walks as Taurus is connected with the Earth which can be a grounding and pleasant experience.

Taurus may take a while to make up its mind but once that happens it can be one of the most steadfast and loyal of all signs. This is the time to think things through carefully and make no rush to judgment. People will be far less impetuous and go through all of their options more carefully when making decisions.

Since Taurus does rule the 2^nd house of money in astrology many will be focused on financial concerns at this time. Now is the time to think through investments or anything that relates to your financial life and make changes where necessary.

The downside of Taurus can be a stubborn unwillingness to make changes or stay stuck on something that is not working. Taurus is a fixed sign that moves slowly and does not make fast decisions. Keep an open mind and chill out this month. If you do this, there is no reason you should not enjoy and prosper from the richness, joy and beauty of the Taurus season.

Venus enters Taurus April 29^th-May 24th

 

Venus is considered at home in Taurus which is one of the signs it rules; the other one is Libra.

Venus in Taurus will be a significant change from self oriented Venus in Aries. Over the next few weeks there will be a greater focus on love, money, luxury items or beauty, beautiful things, relationships and personal as well as collective values. Venus is happy and lavish in this sign and you may feel a desire to surround yourself with richness on many different levels whether it is art, clothes, jewelry, calming music or rich food. Go ahead and enjoy the most basic of comforts: touch, smell, sensuality, beauty, comfort, relaxation and food. Venus in Taurus takes us back to the basics of life and we can indulge and luxuriate in the simpler things that make us the happiest on an inner level.

Now is the time to focus on relationships, and putting your emotions and feelings first, ahead of work or other heavy demands. This can be a relaxed time where we are focused most of all on the physical, the beautiful, and we can connected to the earth and outdoors and the beauty of spring as Taurus is an Earth sign. Plan a walk or hike, and get grounded by Mother Earth. Typically this is a great time for planting and getting your garden under control if you are inclined in this way. Taurus is typically considered fruitful and the best sign for planting whether it is a large country or urban garden or houseplants on a balcony or in a window.

By seeking pleasure in all of its most basic forms and with others this period typically embodies harmony and can be a beautiful, chilled out and relaxed period that won’t return again for another year.

April 30^th, Mars enters Aries

Last but not least the action planet leaves Pisces for Aries on the last day of the month.

Mars has been in gentle laid back Pisces since March 22^nd and we will experience quite an energetic shift when Mars enters Aries.

Mars is at home in this sign which means it operates well and is extremely powerful.  Aries rules the first house of self, so we will be interested in furthering our own interests most of all during this 6 week cycle of Mars. We will evaluate what we want and go after it whether it is a job, an idea, or even a romantic partner.

This begins a new Mars cycle as Mars once again crosses the ‘world point’ or 0 degrees of Aries and starts its two year trip through the zodiac once again. The ‘world point’ is associated with events on the world stage than can affect us all and give us an extra dose of get-up-and-go.

Mars in Aries likes to take control of things and can increase our personal drive and ambition. Expect this to be a spontaneous, forward looking and action oriented period. Winning may become more important and Aries can be quite competitive. We will pursue things in a more straight forward manner, which is the opposite of Mars in Pisces that often approaches things from a sideways and intuitive perspective. Aries is typically confident, optimistic and does not let grass grow under their feet.

The downside of Aries is impatience, arrogance and self-centeredness. While we pursue our goals in a very direct manner, we can express anger in the same manner which can turn many more sensitive people off or create hard feelings.

Aries is considered a pioneering sign not afraid of trying out new ideas and concepts and approaches life head on. Some famous people with Mars in Aries include Steve Jobs, Stephen Hawking, Bernie Sanders, Nicolas Sarkozy, Monica Lewinsky, Queen Victoria, Caroline Princess of Hanover, Martha Stewart, David Letterman and Priscilla Presley.

Independence, confidence and courage are all Aries qualities that we can embrace during this period. As Aries rules the first house of the zodiac this can be a time for new beginnings, new experiences and new and greater confidence in our own abilities to inspire others and lead.

Other aspects of significance

April 3^rd, Venus conjuncts Neptune-This can seem dreamy or it can be a day fraught with confusion concerning love, values or money. Neptune obscures the real facts so this is not the best day for important decisions.

April 10^th, Mars conjuncts Saturn-This is a frustrating and trying aspect that leans toward frustration, aggravation and anger.  This becomes part of the eclipse energy the day before. It is prone to the above mentioned situations but it does give the energy to focus and narrow in on certain things if necessary for a few days.

April 21^st the Sun squares Pluto This is a powerful aspect prone toward power struggles, change and endings. This can become a day filled with stress and its best to just flow with the change if possible. Others may seem combative today and it’s best to avoid contentious issues if you want to avoid an argument.  Pluto is obsessive in nature so this day could entail these types of feelings as well as actions. This is generally a significant day in the world.

April 28^th, Mars conjuncts Neptune-This can be a period of low energy and confusion. Mars-Neptune aspects are sometimes associated with weird or unusual things happening and at worst it can be a transit of theft and lies. You may feel intuitive and while this is possible it can also lean toward paranoia.

April 30^th Venus squares Pluto-This can be a tough day concerning finances, feelings and love. This aspect leans toward obssessiveness, jealousy and not getting along well with the opposite and sometimes same sex. Feelings can run deep and be hurt easily. At best we can experience change and transformation in a situation involving love or money but if so, it won’t be easy.

 

 

March 2024 astrology; Spring arrives and an eclipse!

 

This month the Sun leaves Pisces for Aries and spring officially begins on March 19^th! Mercury will enter Aries and Venus leaves Aquarius for romantic Pisces. Mars also enters Pisces or the last sign of the zodiac, and Jupiter crosses the halfway mark in Taurus on March 20th.

We will experience a New moon in Pisces and the first eclipse of the season will fall in Libra on March 25^th. There are no retrograde planets in March but Mercury will enter its shadow period on March 18-April 1^st. Now, the details.

Happy New Year and spring solstice

The Sun completes its yearly transit through Pisces and enters the first sign of spring on March 19^th. At 11:06PM, EDT the Sun enters Aries, which is the spring solstice and spring is finally here.  Each year when the Sun reaches 0 degrees of Aries the astrological New Year begins and we start anew for another 365 days.

During the Pisces season we are typically focused on merging with others to the extent we can typically overlook or not place the biggest emphasis on ourselves. When the Sun moves from Pisces into Aries we come back to what our own desires and needs are and how to go about meeting them. Often we begin new ventures and projects at this time.

Aries is not only a Fire sign, but a Cardinal Fire sign which means Aries are ready to handle just about anything that comes their way. Cardinal signs are the natural leaders in life and like to be in the circle of movers and shakers. They typically exude confidence and don’t let grass grow under their feet. As the Sun enters Aries we will all take on more of these characteristics.

Aries is ruled by Mars, the planet of action and war. Mars is a take charge planet, and can be determined, brash, and assertive and always seeks movement or action. Aries cannot stand inertia or being bored.

Aries rules the first house of the zodiac or the self. When this happens we tend to be focused on our own needs, what we want to do and how we can get there. For this reason Aries is sometimes considered a selfish sign, so while we should seek to understand and act on our own needs, it is wise to remember that when interacting with others we need to consider their feelings as well.

Aries qualities include bravery, a take charge attitude, bold ideas and actions, confidence, enthusiasm, honesty, and passion. Aries main weaknesses are being short tempered, moody, impulsive and overly aggressive.

As Aries represents the beginning of the astrological cycle there is often a big emphasis on new starts, new beginnings, or seeing potential in new projects and situations. Like the spring flowers and vegetation that begin to grow, we too can start anew and plant our seeds for the rest of the year to come. Now is the time to take a direct, bigger and bold approach to what you would like to do or start and you may be surprised at how successful and convincing you can be to others.  Aries typically does not wait for around for things to happen, they make things happen. We all get a bit of the same take charge attitude becoming more focused and driven to make things happen.  Aries likes freedom and now is the time to enjoy just being you.

The less desirable side of Aries has to do with making decisions too fast and moving forward without thinking things through first. If this is the case however, we can review things and make appropriate changes when the Sun moves into the more earthy and solid sign of Taurus April 20^th.

Aries is sometimes accused of being overly aggressive or demanding but this comes from a desire to be straightforward and get things moving. Those who find this energy the most difficult are Water signs but Air and Fire signs should thrive on this energy.

At best the Fire energy of this sign can motivate and drive you toward working toward your goals whatever they may be. For some, this transit will involve feelings of new beginnings and new opportunities to take advantage of. You may feel emboldened to really be your true self and put your desires out there.

Your confidence will likely be inspired over the next month, even if you are normally a shy or retiring person. You probably won’t need the validations of others, as you will give it to yourself.

Happy astrological New Year and Happy Birthday to Aries!

Mercury enters Aries

Mercury enters Aries March 10^th where it will remain until May 15^th due to its retrograde on April 1^st.

Mercury is the planet that rules our thinking and communication. Our style of communication with each other is influenced by the particular sign Mercury is in and it changes about once every 30 days or so unless it retrogrades. While Mercury has been in Pisces communication has typically not been direct and often confusing so its move into Aries will change this dramatically and quickly.

While in Aries communication as well as thinking will pick up speed and shift toward a style of getting straight to the point, sometimes to the point of even seeming abrupt.

For some, especially the Fire signs this will seem very natural and comfortable, and for others (especially Water signs) this type of communication may seem too harsh or outside their comfort zone.

Conveying information and ideas will be faster, sharper and without beating around the bush but we must watch out for overly assertive communication with others or getting carried away with ideas that have not been thoroughly thought out as our mind may be moving so fast.

At its best Mercury in Aries can provide us with a mental state that is optimistic, encouraging, on point and self-confident. At its worst Mercury in Aries can come across as rude, thoughtless, aggressive, impatient and without respect as we can sometimes forget to approach conversations in a thoughtful manner with others. Details can be missing in conversation as Aries is prone to streamlined thinking and communication and does not like to get bogged down in details.

Venus enters Pisces

The planet of love enters Pisces on March 11th and will remain here until April 5^th.

If Venus in Aquarius has seemed somewhat aloof, Venus in Pisces will be quite different as Pisces is one of the most romantic and sensitive of signs and Venus is well placed here. Venus is in Pisces is gentle, perceptive, artistic and emotional, creating a great ambiance for love. Pisces is one of Venus’s favorite signs and love has no barriers here. Pisces is also connected with compassion, understanding and intuition.

Now is the time to embrace romance, love, fantasy, creativity and dreams and Pisces is all about all of these things. Pisces is ruled by Jupiter, the planet of expansion as well as Neptune the planet that rules the imagination, our dreams and fantasies. Giving to others comes much easier as and our desire to focus on meaningful and bonds will be powerful. Neptune frequently brings about a desire to merge with others on a deep level and Venus is operating at its highest octave in this sign.

While now is the time to feel romantic thoughts and experience love at its fullest we must also remember that since Pisces is co-ruled by Neptune, Venus in Pisces can also mean putting on rose colored glasses and failing to judge a situation for what it really is. Love can be grand, but we must also pay attention to warning signs that tell us if the person we are interested in is not all in the relationship. This can be a fine line to walk; feeling the yearning for romance and yet maintaining boundaries and a clear perspective. In other words, Venus in Pisces does not mean throwing caution to the wind. The desire to merge with others will be significant and complex but we must be careful who and what we choose to merge with.

Mars enters Pisces

Mars enters Pisces March 22^nd and will remain in this sign until April 30^th. Mars joins Venus in this sign and the two planets that rule our love life will dance together once more until April 5th when Venus moves into Aries. 

When Venus and Mars travel together this can present new opportunities in love for those born under the signs Venus and Mars are in or compatible with. Those most influenced by this will be Pisces, Scorpio and in particular Scorpio or those born with a Cancer ascendant as Venus and Mars will be transiting together in their 5^th house of love.

Mars is the planet that motivates and drives us toward our goals. When Mars enters Pisces we act more on intuition, sensitivity to others and at times, spiritual, psychic or moral convictions.

Mars in Pisces will bring about a noticeable energetic shift as Pisces is the most laid back of signs. Pisces is ruled by both Jupiter and Neptune and compassion and understanding will be the key this month with so many planets in the sign that rules spirituality, understanding and the psychic world. Don’t be surprised if you don’t also experience vivid dreams as Neptune also rules dreams. Confusion may also filter in as Neptune is also the planet of illusion, confusion and delusion.

Mars in Pisces will come across as more compassionate and understanding than Mars in other signs and our action may be broader and in some cases more scattered or confused. Mars in this sign does not operate in a direct manner, but rather moves sideways much of the time. There is method to the madness however; as Mars-Pisces is so intuitive, action often comes at the right moment.

During Mars transit through Pisces keeping the peace becomes more important than it does at other times. People born with Mars in this sign often go with the flow in life rather than approaching things in a head on manner and they often end up being correct in their approach to timing if they are paying attention.

As Pisces is a mutable sign, what we want may be quite changeable as this is the nature of all mutable signs. Above all else mutable signs are most interested in the freedom to evolve and change as they go along.

At times Mars in Pisces can seem like moving through fog, not knowing where we will end up. The greater gift of this sign however is being able to conceptualize the bigger picture and wait until the time if right as opposed to jumping on every apparent opportunity that comes up. You may feel inclined to wait to act when the spirit moves you to do so.

Since Pisces is the most sensitive and spiritual of signs so we will be prone to look at the world through a different lens that values compassion and understanding over direct confrontation and approaching things in a head on manner.

Mars in Pisces will work well for the water signs. It may be a little more difficult for the Fire signs that are used to taking direct action as opposed to waiting for the right time to approach something.

March’s New Moon in Pisces March 10th

This New Moon falls at 20 degrees of Pisces and the peak is at 5:00 AM, EDT.  Daylight savings time will begin at 2:00 AM, EDT. Pisces rules the 12^th house of endings and its planetary rulers are Jupiter and Neptune.

This new moon is considered a Super Moon. Super Moon’s are tied into significant earth and weather changes. Since this Moon is in Pisces it is likely we will see some dramatic water related weather conditions at this time, or some other type of natural occurrence. Super Moons appear closer to the earth and have a stronger gravitational pull.

This Moon will sextile Uranus bringing about the opportunity to look at and experience our emotions in a new and different manner. It also conjuncts Neptune, its planetary ruler. This can create a feeling of confusion, or there may be a lack of clarity about something.

Mercury sextiles Pluto giving us the ability to speak in a very deliberate and convincing manner, especially if it involves groups.

Mars squares Uranus and is exact March 9^th, so this becomes part of the New Moon energy. Mars-Uranus aspect lean toward unexpected events and can be volatile in nature, so we can expect this to play out on the world stage.

The lunar eclipse in Libra

The first eclipse of the year falls in Libra and this is a Full moon. It will reach the peak at 3:00 AM EDT or 12:00 AM on the West Coast. Libra rules the 7^th house of partnerships, marriage and relationships with others of all types. The 7^th house also rules courts.

Eclipses are like wildcards and one of the ways we learn how and what we need to change so our life can evolve. An eclipse can seem good or bad, depending on what it aspects in your personal chart, and often an eclipse is dramatic, or reveals important information if it aspects a significant point in your own chart. An eclipse often brings news pertaining to life's biggest events. The energy of an eclipse can last for months and in some cases years.

Almost always unexpected information comes to light and at this time something may be eclipsed completely out of your life, or into your life.

Libra/Venus not only rules romantic relationships, but relationships of all kinds, including work, friendships and even relationships on a bigger level between countries.

Since Libra is the ruler of the 7^th house of committed relationships we can expect to see many situations occurring in personal relationships and marriages, some good, some not so good, depending on what else is happening in your personal chart and what the eclipse is aspecting. An eclipse is personal to everyone depending on what it does in your chart.

Libra/the 7^th house also rules courts of all kinds. The symbol for Libra represents the scales of justice.

Libra’s planetary ruler is Venus, the planet of love and money, so the focus of this eclipse will be relationships and love.

Venus is sextile Jupiter which is a pleasant transit that peaks the day before the eclipse. This is often connected to favorable financial matters, love and social events.

This eclipse favors harmonious cooperation and seeing another’s point of view. Working with others will get us further at this time.

What this eclipse does in your chart specifically depends on what it aspects, along with any other significant aspects at this time.

Other aspects of significance:

Jupiter conjuncts Uranus

During March Jupiter is rapidly approaching it’s conjunction with Uranus in Taurus. While technically this aspect isn’t exact until April the affects will begin to play out in March.

Jupiter-Uranus is an unpredictable transit and can be prone to both positive and negative but in many respects I lean toward the positive especially if this is aspecting something nicely in your personal chart.

Jupiter-Uranus can affect monetary gains and losses, new opportunities and can be considered a ‘gambler’s paradise.’  It’s best to take chances on things that are a safe bet with an aspect like this which can go either way. We experienced the first landing on the Moon in 1969 on a Jupiter conjunct Uranus and the French Civil War began on a Jupiter-Uranus aspect as well.

When Jupiter was in Taurus in 2011, the US credit was downgraded, and this occurred again in 2023 with Jupiter in Taurus. Will this occur a 3^rd time since another shutdown is looming on March 1^st? Time will soon tell.

Mercury stations to retrograde

Mercury turns retrograde April 1^st, which means it comes to an almost complete stop March 29^th-31^st. During these few days Mercury is not yet retrograde but the energy is changing and it will retrograde in just a few days.

It is during this time that we start to notice Mercurial changes and things going haywire, so now is not the time to begin new projects or buy high ticket items.

Mercury will have been in its shadow period since March 18^th. If you need to wrap anything up, do it well in advance of the end of the month if you want things to run smoothly?

March 3^rd, Venus squares Uranus-Expected the unexpected, especially when it comes to love and/or money.  While this is not an inherently negative transit it is changeable.  Some may view this day as exciting and sense an electric feeling in the air.

March 8^th, Mercury conjuncts Neptune-Mercury and Neptune aren’t really pals so expect this day to be tiring and there is a strong potential for confusion and misinformation.

March 9^th, Mars squares Uranus-This is probably the most explosive transit of the month. This is prone to clashes of all types and changeability. Use caution while driving and expect some things to be changeable including tempers. Unfortunately this will play out on the world stage and it is volatile.

March 17^th, the Sun conjuncts Neptune-This can increase dreams and psychic feelings but also paranoia and confusion. Make sure you have all you facts straight as it is prone to misinformation.

March 21^st, Venus conjuncts Saturn. This is not a positive transit for love or social activities. It is prone toward responsibilities and obligations and at time it can be beneficial in business. If it aspects your chart in just the right way a break up could occur but there would also have to be bigger and more significant aspects to bring this about.

 

 

 

 

February 13-14th and Mars conjunct Pluto

 

Mars is conjunct Pluto February 13^th-14^th and exact Valentine ’s Day this year which may serve as an emotional trigger for some. We need to be aware of this energy even in the days before this date and a few days after, at least.  By February 16^th, Venus joins the fray conjuncting Pluto and Mars as well.

This harsh combination falls in the sign of Aquarius which rules the 11^th house of the collective, so this aspect has the potential to affect us all in some way. Aquarius is ruled by both Saturn and Uranus, the planet of sudden, unexpected and often explosive events.

Aquarius is the sign of brotherhood, equality and freedom. This aspect has the potential to end some relationships, especially if you have planets in your chart at 0-2 degrees of Taurus, Leo, Scorpio or Aquarius. Freedom can be a theme for some, especially those who feel they have been in repressive situations.

Personal relationships may become volatile and you may be quick to express your feelings in a powerful way. Strength or courage could be a strong point at this time but you must avoid manipulation and control to accomplish what you want.

Mars-Pluto can be disruptive and prone to obsessions and jealousy, especially for those who are predisposed to these types of feelings.

This transit will play out on the world stage and it is likely it will be in unexpected and explosive ways. The last time Pluto was conjunct Mars in Aquarius was February 18, 1789. 14 days earlier, George Washington became the first President of the United States.

This aspect returns to the same degree and station point as the Saturn-Jupiter conjunction in Aquarius at the end of 2020. Mars ‘sets off’ the Saturn-Jupiter conjunction which is known as one of the most powerful aspects that occurs every 20 years and relates to the advancement of the human race.

Time doesn’t permit me to look at all of the charts I might like to but from memory this affects the chart of President Joe Biden. It appears to affect the chart of the US Supreme court. It also affects the chart of the UK’s King Charles, Princess Anne, and William, Prince of Wales to name only a few.

The last Pluto-Mars conjunction was in Capricorn at 27 degrees and occurred February 1-2^nd, 2022, just a few days after the start of the Russia-Ukrainian war.

Mars rules police, anger and war, young men and in some cases the military. The sign of Aquarius is often involved in war situations.

Uranus is associated with the internet and cyber-attacks, aircraft, explosions, coups and unexpected news and events.

 

 

The astrology of February 2024!

 

Time certainly flies, and can you believe we are actually in the 2^nd month of 2024 already? Happy Valentine’s Day!

This month, the Sun, Mars, Venus and Mercury are already in Aquarius or will be. That’s a lot of Aquarian energy so let’s talk about what this is all about.

-The Sun in Aquarius, like all other Aquarius planets rules the 11^th house of the collective and where ever the Sun goes the spotlight shines.  Sun/Aquarius is more social than the last sign it transited through which was Capricorn. Now is the time to relax a little, think outside the box and enjoy your friends and acquaintances more. The Sun remains in Aquarius until the 18^th when it enters Pisces.

-The Sun enters Pisces February 19th and is a radical change from Aquarius. Aquarius is a rational Air sign and Pisces is an emotional Water sign. Pisces is the final sign in the zodiac that rules the 12^th house or the part of the chart that represents endings, places of seclusion and the unconscious mind. This part of the zodiac is considered the realm of the unknown that also relates to things like secrets, dreams and magic.  At times this house can represent secret enemies or clandestine affairs or relationships that remain secret and hidden. It represents the place where anxieties and fears are formed as well as where they can be overcome, changed or transformed into something far more positive and productive. Pisces is the most ethereal sign of the zodiac.

Pisces planetary rulers are Jupiter and Neptune. Jupiter is the planet of gain and expansion and Neptune rules the oceans, intuition, psychics, dreams, drugs or alcohol, spirituality, and lies or deception along with self-deception. Neptune can represent beautiful dreams and inspiration or it can cause you to sink to the lowest of emotional depths. This is represented by the Pisces image which depicts two fish swimming in opposite directions.  

When the Sun enters Pisces expect to feel things more deeply and we tend to be much more emotional with the Sun in this sign until March 20^th. Lastly, Pisces is the final sign of winter or the mutable sign when weather begins to change. Next stop; spring and new beginnings with Aries!

-Mercury enters Aquarius February 5^th-23^rd. Aquarius is known for its quirky, wild and weird side as well as its intellectual, inventive and eccentric nature. The planetary rulers of Aquarius are Saturn and Uranus.

Uranus rules new, cutting edge types of concepts and with Mercury in this sign you may be able to expand your ideas and approaches and come up with more original ways of focusing on projects at work. In this way you may be able to benefit from Mercury’s transit through this most intellectual and logical of signs. Go bold this month as Uranus is known for producing cutting edge types of technology and innovations. If you can tap into this energy, you could have flashes of intuition that could lead to new ways of looking at things and new approaches to your work. Uranus-Aquarius is associated with concepts that may seem off the grid but later resulting in innovations that become the future norm. Don’t be afraid to try out your ideas within your group or team, as Mercury-Aquarius works well if not best within groups and the collective.

-Mercury changes signs twice in February and enters Pisces February 23^rd-March 10^th. While Mercury is in Pisces we can expect communication to become flakier, and miscommunication to be a common theme. Rather than being focused on facts, we may be swayed more by the mood and tone of thinking and conversations. We tend to operate more on intuition, and spend time reflecting on the past.  Our instincts often drive thinking and communication, dreams and fantasies can become more vivid and remain on our minds.

Pisces is a mutable water sign. While all water signs are sensitive and emotional, a mutable sign is changeable, so our thoughts and feelings will be constantly shifting and changing over the next 20 days just like the ocean which Pisces/Neptune has dominion over.

Pisces also rules religion and faith, and some will find this a more spiritual time, and focus on their inner life more than material. With Mercury in this sign we may be much more inclined to take a ‘leap of faith’ in some direction we have not previously tried. Many time we think about the bigger questions in life such as ‘what is my true purpose,’ ‘what is God,’ or ‘does life go on after death?’ None of these questions are trivial and topics like these will likely come up more frequently.

Compassion can be given and received during Mercury in Pisces. We are more attuned to others and their pain or problems at this time than we normally are.

The downside of this transit is that we may find that we are more forgetful, experience brain fog, or show up late at work or meetings as we are not so focused on details at this time. It is important to pay attention to communication because we can mishear something we thought was said or others may misspeak. We could be tempted to believe the unbelievable at some point, so before reaching any important decision make sure you get the facts straight.

-Venus leaves conservative Capricorn (I wrote about last month) for Aquarius February 16^th- March 11^th. While Venus was in Capricorn the energies was focused on practical responsibilities concerning love, work and money, and Capricorn is not a light hearted sign. Venus in Aquarius is unpredictable if not changeable as Aquarius is ruled by both Saturn and Uranus, the planet of unexpected change. Aquarius is a fixed Air sign so energy moves more slowly and can be resistant to change. Air signs bring a logical and detached approach to matters and operate from this basis rather than an emotional one. Aquarius is steadfast in terms of protecting individuality and does not change to follow trends, fads or the latest rage unless it is convinced this presents a better opportunity for all.

Freedom is all important to Venus Aquarius. You may not want to be confined or feel too tied down and may be more open to unusual friendships and hanging out with people who are different from your usual social circle. You will be interested in ideas outside the box, forming your own opinions, and more interested in making new friendships with unusual people.

-Mars enters Aquarius February 16^th-March 22^nd. Mars joins Venus in the sign of the water-bearer.  Mars is called the ‘God of War’ in astrology. This is because Mars rules our anger and how we take action, sex, our energy levels and men.

While Mars in Capricorn was focused on practical responsibilities and work, Aquarius energy is far different.  Mars in Capricorn is considered ‘exalted,’ which means its energy can be harnessed and focused in a slow steady approach toward a goal, even if it means playing the long game because Capricorn has plenty of patience and commitment to get there.

Mars in Aquarius action is more unpredictable if not changeable as Aquarius is ruled by both Saturn and Uranus, the planet of unexpected change. During Mars cycle in Aquarius we can expect unexpected change sometimes that seems out of the blue.

Aquarius is a fixed Air sign. With fixed signs energy moves more slowly and can be resistant to change. Air signs bring a logical and detached approach to matters and operate from this basis rather than an emotional one. Aquarius is steadfast in terms of protecting individuality in the face of change. This sign does not change to follow trends, fads or the latest rage unless it is convinced this presents a better opportunity for all.

Aquarius is considered the sign representing humanity and the collective. Aquarius concerns are typically global or their interest lies in terms of the larger betterment of all as opposed to certain people or groups. Many politicians are born with the Sun in Aquarius including Abraham Lincoln.

Mars-Aquarius does not like to be out of sync with others, especially those in his or her own groups. When a kindred spirit is found this sign can be the most social of all. If ideas clash too often Aquarius may seek out other groups they feel a greater connection to.

-Venus and Mars together in Aquarius does not occur every year or often. This year the two planets of love will dance together from February 16-March 11^th.

When Mars and Venus are in the same sign this increases the opportunities for some of the signs to meet someone new. In this case, those most likely to meet a new love are Aquarius and Libra, or those with Aquarius or Libra ascendants.

You could be affected by this in a positive way if you are an Air or fire sign, Libra and Aquarius in particular, or those who have significant planets in this sign.

-February’s New Moon falls at 20 degrees of Aquarius on February 9^th and this is considered a Supermoon. Supermoons are connected with significant weather or earth related events such as earthquakes or tsunamis. A Supermoon appears much closer to the Earth. I have studied Supermoons over the years and from my personal observations the energy seems stronger, and larger events seem to occur especially connected with natural disasters. Aquarius-Uranus has been associated with significant water related weather conditions, so I would not be surprised if we don’t see events like this on or close to this New Moon.

 Aquarius is ruled by both Saturn and Uranus, the planet of unexpected events and change and the moon squares Uranus making it very unpredictable and changeable. Aquarius rules the 11^th house of the collective and is tied into things that can affect us all on some level. Aquarius is associated with electronics, the internet, aircraft, technology, brilliance and innovation as well as explosive circumstances and at times explosions.

The Sun also squares Uranus which can lead to sudden and unexpected change or unanticipated events. W can look for this day or the days surrounding it to be significant on the world stage.

On a personal level we can use this energy for innovation and changes of direction. Uranus is about personal freedom, so in some cases change will be in order in terms of relationships, jobs or anything else that has outlived its purpose. Of course, we will not all experience change this dramatic. The Moon-Uranus energy can be restless, unpredictable, nervous energy or even seem exciting to some.

-February’s Full Moon falls at 5 degrees of Virgo February 24th and Virgo is the sign associated with work and health. Now will be the time to focus or visit the Dr. relating to any health issue that has come up. Virgo is ruled by Mercury, the planet of communication so communicating with others will be important at this time.

This Moon opposes Saturn which can be tiring draining energy. Saturn can cause blocks and delays so if this occurs give the energy a few days to pass and try again.

Mars is still conjunct Venus and sparks can fly on several levels with this aspect.  There can be trouble between the sexes or alternatively it can be an exciting time or you could meet someone new. If this is the case give the relationship time to determine if it goes beyond a physical attraction.

Other transits of significance:

Note: These transits peak on the days mentioned but the energy typically begins before the transit is exact and for a few days after.

February 5^th, Mercury conjuncts Pluto. This is argument and accident prone and it often deals with propaganda and heavy thinking. You may find it hard to let go of certain thoughts today because Pluto is obsessive in nature.

February 13-14 Mars conjuncts Pluto. So sorry, Valentine’s Day may not be great for everyone. Mars-Pluto combinations are associated with anger, obsessive thought and issues that can come up from the depths of the subconscious mind. This will have a greater affect if you have fixed planets-Taurus, Leo, Scorpio or Aquarius at 0-1 degrees. Expect this and the surrounding days to bring major events on the world stage. Mars/Pluto in Aquarius is associated with explosive incidents, explosions, Aircraft and war or war like situations. This will be the most volatile part of the month.

February 16^th, Mercury squares Uranus. Be careful on the road as this is accident prone. It typically relates to changeability and unexpected communication.

February 17^th Venus conjuncts Pluto. This is prone to money and relationship problems. This is an intense aspect when it comes to relationships and can be prone to strong feelings, jealousy or deep rooted issues that surface in relationships. You could also find yourself dwelling on negative past experiences in relationships.

February 21^st, Venus conjuncts Mars and sparks will fly. This is a double edged sword because on one hand this can indicate issues between the sexes and on the other hand this is a day that could end up being exciting when it comes to relationships, or you could meet someone new. It can also be connected with buying and overspending.

February 24^th, Venus squares Jupiter. This is typically a pleasant day but you may not feel extremely driven. A good transit for relaxing, going out and catching up with friends and loved ones, or any social activity

February 27^th, Mars squares Jupiter. This is generally pleasant and many things can come together. Some things can get blown out of proportion and you shouldn’t underestimate the amount of time and work things will take if you commit to something new.

February 28^th, Mercury and the Sun conjunct Saturn. Expect this to be a tiring if not somewhat negative day. Sun-Saturn aspects are