Moon Diary

Moon Diary: New Moon in Taurus, 21st April 2012

by Jane Lyle
Sensuous and passionate, the new Moon rises at 2 degrees of Taurus the Bull on Saturday. Every new Moon symbolises beginnings, and this one is all about seed-time for your projects, your garden or the love in your heart.

 

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This new Moon is energised by Mars, and caressed by mystical Neptune. We can express emotions more assertively than usual, and with more sensitivity to other people’s feelings. When Mars meets the Moon it can sometimes indicate a belligerent kind of sentimentality or even passive-aggressive behaviour. But here, for most of us anyway, Martian energy brings enthusiasm and passion to the changeable Moon. Neptune adds a layer of sensitivity, psychic awareness, intuition and fantasy. This mix suggests those dreamy, lazy moments in life that result in imaginative ideas and discoveries. Wild, moonlit swims and scented baths belong to this beguiling blend too.

Sometimes we need to relax our minds so that we can find out what’s really going on deep down in the fertile regions of the subconscious. There are so many stories of music and novels being born in a dream – even scientific puzzles have been solved by the dreaming mind. Got a problem? Sleep on it under this new Moon’s magical rays and you might just wake up with the answer. 

The ongoing tension between Mars and Neptune warns of deception, or of fantasies and delusions we believe to be real. So a little care and attention to detail won’t hurt. If you’ve been fooling yourself about your motives or actions this new Moon will make that very clear to you. And that can be discouraging, but it allows you to reassess where you are now – and to gather up your energy ready to strike out in a new direction when you feel like it. Like the Hanged Man in the Tarot deck, sacrificing something – in this instance an illusion – brings clarity and inspiration. You just have to be prepared to wait for that knowledge to surface – back to the powers of day-dreaming, meditation, and sleep again.

In the wider world, this new Moon highlights news around charities and welfare, farming, and the production of oil, gas, and drugs. The next new Moon, in May, is an eclipse and – linked with Neptune again - will also highlight these topics. It emphasises confusion, deception and scandal in those areas though.  So now might be the ideal time for a spot of spring cleaning and reorganisation before things get tricky – forewarned is forearmed.  

 

 

 

 

 

Moon Diary: Full Moon in Libra, April 6th 2012

by Jane Lyle
Something about this full Moon reminds me of the story of Goldilocks and the Three Bears. It’s about balancing and testing and trying out one thing and another until you feel it is just right. In the process, much dithering combines with idealistic visions of love, family, and relationships.

The Moon, at 17 degrees of Libra, links with Jupiter in an aspect (the quincunx) that demands adjustments or compromises. Since the Moon is self-protective and defensive, and Jupiter a big, fat expander of all it touches – well, you can imagine this full Moon presiding over some very lively discussions about all kinds of love over the holiday weekend. Fortunately, Jupiter brings humour and enthusiasm too – there are enjoyable meetings, pleasurable connections and, for some of us, love will triumph over hesitation. Emotions are expanded, diets abandoned, everything is larger than life.

Traditionally, the time around a full Moon is the natural time to clear something away, or finish a phase or project. This would be a great time to weed your wardrobe, your bookshelves, or your forgotten store of antique jams and pickles. It would be a terrible time to make big emotional decisions though – you’re likely to vacillate and be unable to carry things through.

Out in the wider world, Jupiter and the Moon bring floods, fertility, and a focus on the opinions and influence of women. Land, farming, agriculture and the law are also linked up – we learn more about these issues, but no final decisions can be made just yet. Curiously, the chart for Burma (Myanmar) shows the Moon at 17 degrees of Libra. We can hope that the influence of one particularly special woman, Aung San Suu Kyi, there will begin a more harmonious era for that troubled country. Her own natal Moon is also in Libra.

 

 

 

 

 

Moon Diary:  New Moon at 2 degrees Aries, 22nd March 2012

by Jane Lyle 

A new season, and the annual new Moon in the first sign of the zodiac seems to be about sprouting seeds and fresh starts. But this year it’s a bit more complicated.

Yes it is, no it isn’t
This springtime new Moon is full of energy, but fluctuating moods and thoughts could waste quite a lot of our time now, and in the immediate future. The Moon is conjunct retrograde Mercury, so some of our doubts, hesitations and false starts could turn out to be very useful in the end – between the 19th and 23rd April could be when we see everything more clearly and feel able to get something moving. A good time to re-evaluate our ideas or check new projects with extra care. Some of our insights surprise and delight us – I suspect many of us will be setting out on a new path this spring, and that path might not be exactly as we planned it. Mars, ruler of Aries, is also mooching about in retrograde motion, and not exactly eager for action until mid-April when he finally gets moving again.

Electrifying bursts of energy come from the Aries Sun and Moon close to Uranus, again an erratic and emotionally unstable energy – but an exciting one.  On the plus side, this a positive time for insights, unusual intuitions, and for being a little unconventional. Family life, represented by the Moon, could be subject to interesting changes or a deeper understanding of how family dynamics affect everyone involved.

The downside of this link suggests that people in charge – from your boss to world leaders – seem to lack empathy, act on personal whims, or misunderstand the needs of their staff, company, or even country. Immaturity makes itself very obvious now. And probably in a very public fashion.

Endings and beginnings
Asteroids Lacrimosa – meaning weeping, and Atropos – daughter of night, and one of the three Greek Fates, are conjunct the Sun and Moon. As we say a long goodbye to the previous season, and perhaps to certain winter hopes, wishes or projects, we’re likely to feel sad.

Everybody realises, sooner or later, that endings are necessary so that we can make space for beginnings. This doesn’t make it easy though. If it were easy there would be something to worry about!

Atropos’ fateful sister, Lachesis, opposed the full Moon on March 8th. You could say the Fates were gathering, ready to move us on into something unexpected, something brand new. An open mind and a flexible approach is needed – clinging to the wreckage of a job, relationship, or anything else that needs to change is simply a terrible waste of energy and potential. There is always a choice though, and of course it does take courage to do something different. This new Moon, then, would be a good time to use the interesting cosmic mix of innovation and caution to think things through and decide on future changes.

 

 

 

 

 

Moon Diary: Full Moon at 18-19 degrees Virgo, 8th March 2012 by Jane Lyle

A Virgo full Moon can be exacting and meticulous. But the Pisces Sun, opposite the Moon, says use your intuition.

Somewhere there’s a place where we can blend both intuition and logic, rise above artificial boundaries, and find the answers we seek. That’s the challenge presented to us by this full Moon. Themes of service to others,  sacrifice, and even loss could be obvious around this time.

Dwarf planet Ceres aspects this full Moon from Aries, winding up the tension and strengthening the desire to take a leap in the dark. Ceres (Greek Demeter) was a goddess of growth and abundance, but she is also associated with destruction – part of the cycle of life and death. She is credited with causing winter to come, a time when everything shrivels and dies in the northern hemisphere. Winter was an expression of her grief and rage when her daughter, Proserpina (Persephone), was kidnapped and taken to live in the underworld as the bride of Hades. When her daughter returned, granted six months above ground each year, Ceres allowed spring and summer to return too. Ceres is a mother, Virgo is a virgin maiden – both are connected to harvest time, another kind of ending. Maybe we’re going to reap what we’ve sown?

So think carefully about decisions over the next two weeks, and don’t throw the baby out with the bath water – to use an old, and rather dark, turn of phrase. Making adjustments can be tricky, but that’s the planetary message of this full Moon.  Think back, too, to the time around the December 10th eclipse – for this full Moon could trigger off meaningful actions, thoughts, and feelings from last winter. What happened then is tested and challenged now.

The Pisces Sun is conjunct asteroid Lachesis, named for one of the three Greek Fates. This suggests that certain things will come to a head over the next two weeks, reaching their conclusion or allotted time span. The Fates weave and spin the threads of life and life’s path – while a full Moon symbolises the end of a phase, her message strengthened as Lachesis snips the thread and tells us something has come to an end. We’re almost at the close of winter (or summer in the southern hemisphere) – so maybe, at the very least, it’s time to put away last season’s things, and prepare for spring. Obviously, Virgo the Virgin Maiden, loves to spring clean. And this could be a very constructive use of this Moon’s symbolism and uneven energies.

This full Moon and its meaning resonates directly with the horoscopes for India, Indonesia, Lebanon, Ethiopia and Venezuela. If today’s your birthday then you’ll be completing something this year, or bringing something to a close – ready to make a new beginning.  

 

 

 

 

 

Moon Diary:  New Moon in Pisces 21st February 2012 by Jane Lyle
An elusive mermaid of a new Moon rises at 2 degrees of Pisces, flicking her silvery tail and casting a spell of enchantment over us. Will we be lured onto the rocks? Or will we plunge into the ocean’s depths and discover some mysterious kingdom?

Many of us will probably experience both emotional chaos and intuitive enlightenment. This Moon belongs to the twilight zone. It’s dark side focuses on allergies, addictions, alcohol, floods and emotional neglect.

This watery new Moon has some thought-provoking companions. It is conjunct Neptune, newly in Pisces, doubling the other-worldly feelings we may experience. Fantasy and idealised love can melt susceptible hearts over the next month - a delightful experience. Just try to remember that, like fairy gold, this might be an illusion or even a delusion. It’s blissful and boundary-less, but you might wake up and wonder what happened some time in March. Ancient stories of supernatural lovers are found all over the world; ghostly lovers and fairy maidens bewitch and seduce human beings, and then they disappear at best, break hearts at worst. It rarely ends well.

Certainly, it’s the perfect new Moon for ghost stories, spiritual experiments, and psychic experiences. It favours music and musicians, artists, magicians and film-makers. Jupiter, co-ruler of Pisces along with Neptune, sits around expanding these beguiling energies still further. It will be hard to tell what’s coming towards us in the mist.

Tainted Love?

Eleutheria, a large asteroid, is exactly conjunct this Moon. The Greek name means liberty or freedom. In Pisces this suggests spiritual freedom, or the freedom to explore your imagination and see where it takes you. Close by is asteroid Pallas, fierce warrior goddess of wisdom. She’s about strategy, working with conflict, and using our inner knowledge. Rather than charging straight ahead, Pallas in Pisces prefers to use passive resistance or find ways to wrong-foot an opponent by learning more about how they think.

This would be a helpful time to begin looking at your relationships in a new way, particularly if you’ve been having problems or finding it difficult to understand someone close to you. Take some time out, and allow your heart to open up and tell you what you really feel. Chiron, the healing centaur, is also close to the Moon, encouraging us to explore and overcome emotional wounds. These can be from your childhood, your love life, or even a close yet challenging friendship. A wound is a wound. Don’t let it prevent you from living your life to the full.

Asteroid Juno, goddess of marriage and protector of women, challenges all this watery emotion from philosophical Sagittarius. If your relationship is hanging by a thread she asks you to think about what that relationship means to you. Do you want to work on it, or are you holding on to the status the relationship offers? Big questions, but a new Moon is always a promising time to begin a new phase. Sacrifices are demanded from some of us – we may have to give up on a dream in order to seek for something better.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Moon Diary: Full Moon at 18 degrees Leo, 7th February 2012 by Jane Lyle
Does your head rule your heart? Or is the other way around?  The annual full Moon in Leo always poses these questions.

 

For every full Moon is opposite the Sun, and the Sun at this time of year is in rational, humanitarian Aquarius. The Moon in fiery Leo favours intimate, personal and romantic feelings. Working out how to find a balance between reason and emotions is the Moon’s essential message to us over the next two weeks. Full Moons have a habit of bringing things up to the surface – emotions swell, and tides are high. What will get washed up on the beach?

A Cosmic See-Saw
Talking about emotions is sometimes difficult, but under this full Moon it may be hard to keep quiet. Conversations swoop between being very rational and reasonable, to all about releasing what’s been bottled up or held back.

Chatty planet Mercury sits with the Sun, encouraging both individuals and large crowds and groups to express themselves. Popular movements, political agendas, and public opinions about money, business, and trade are in the lunar spotlight for the next two weeks. The UK, USA, Russia, Eire and Somalia are some of the countries energised by this full Moon. It’s all about the people, and we’ll all notice the rippling effects of past history upon the present.  Eris, dwarf planet and agent provocateur aspects Sun and Moon too – so some skeletons may shake, rattle and roll their way out of our own personal cupboards, or the secret archives of nations, corporations, and public figures. Mars in Virgo adds the need to compromise, adjust, juggle and balance things. But few of us are in the mood.  

So can anything help us to channel this lunar energy constructively? Dwarf planet Haumea (at 19 degrees Libra), named for the Polynesian goddess of birth and fertility, offers some helpful possibilities. She could, says her myth, give birth from every part of her body. This means her creativity and fertility are of every kind imaginable. She creates ‘children’ of the mind and spirit as well as children of the body. Since the sign Leo rules creativity, children, and romance, this might give us some imaginative ideas about how to use the tensions of the full Moon in interesting ways.

Moon Magic
Every full Moon is, magically speaking, a time to complete a phase or to think about what we want to end so that we can develop in new ways later on. A Leo full Moon shines on romance (or the lack of it); on feeling successful and confident; and on our creations – whether those are children, a business, a garden or a birthday cake. This would be a great evening to enjoy a dramatic movie, a special dinner, or to light some gold and orange candles and focus on making life feel more sensual and abundant. When money is tight, how we feel inside is more important than ever. If you have natal planets at 17-21 degrees of Aquarius, Leo, Taurus or Scorpio you’re especially likely to feel the effects of this full Moon for the next two weeks.  

And finally, if it all gets too much, we can celebrate the 200th birthday of a great Aquarian writer and satirist, Charles Dickens, born on this day in 1812. He said, “There is nothing better than a friend, unless it is a friend with chocolate.”  I suspect that’s the kind of friend many of us will welcome.

 

 

 

 

 

Moon Diary: New Moon at 2 degrees Aquarius, 23rd January 2012
By Jane Lyle
Are you ready to break the rules? Be inventive? Challenge your own assumptions? Then this free-thinking new Moon is the perfect time for you.

It’s an excellent time for proper, positive, new year resolutions - ones that are about trying something new, pushing your boundaries, and stretching your imagination. And if you fancy trying meditation, mindfulness, or psychic development this would also be a wonderful time to begin.

Audacious aspects
The Sun and Moon, always together at the time of a new Moon, make vibrant links with high-energy planets Jupiter and Uranus. Uranus, ruler of Aquarius, invariably symbolises something unconventional, unexpected, or even revolutionary. When linked with the Moon, this awakens our emotions and encourages us to question longstanding patterns we’ve fallen into. Maybe, we think, our families were wrong about some things. Maybe we question what society says is right, and want to rebel against the rules. Or maybe we gain a fantastic, sudden insight into a stagnant or oppressive situation, and see how we can break free.

Jupiter’s presence expands everything. When closely linked with the fluctuating Moon, it signifies waves of emotion and inspiration ebbing and flowing all over the place.  Sometimes this means dithering on the brink of making a decision that needs emotional commitment. It might bring out the worst in emotionally immature types, particularly if they have any power over us. But at its most positive, it favours big dreams, splendid plans, humour and enthusiasm. When Jupiter is involved it is always wise to enjoy the ride, but please do wait a while before you splash out financially. You may feel like sneering at sensible advice, but it is possible to explore your most soaring visions of the future while avoiding gambling your life savings. Back to the meditative, inner side of this new Moon…..enrich your inner world for best results.

Goddesses and Monsters
Ceres, the dwarf planet that rules nourishment and life-cycles, favours this new Moon with her presence - strengthening the message of feeding our spirit, our minds, and our emotional selves. New possibilities around food and farming could appear now too.  Ceres is linked with asteroid Nephthys, ancient Egyptian goddess of divine assistance, protection, and the infinite realms of night. Like Ceres, she has a fierce, determined side. She destroys her enemies with her fiery breath, or soars skywards on falcon’s wings. Nephthys rides in the night-ship that carries the souls of the dead towards their next life - underlining the Moon’s message of new frontiers for the brave of heart.

Asteroid Scylla is worth mentioning here, for this fearsome Greek sea monster also appears in the chart for this new Moon. She had six heads, and enjoyed eating sailors who had been foolish enough to sail too close to her home in the Strait of Messina, Italy. On the other side of the Strait dwelt Charybdis, a wild and ravenous whirlpool of a monster. She sucked ships down into the depths of the sea. This myth gave rise to the ancient saying ‘between Scylla and Charybdis’ - would you fancy getting close either of them?  So, some of our choices at this new Moon may seem to be difficult, or as equally scary as each other - we may be stuck on the horns of a dilemma, between a rock and a hard place. There could be real storms on land and at sea. Or unexpected whirlpools of emotion to deal with. However, I feel that if we ride the waves we’ll be ok - the trick seems to be to go within.  Step into the night ship for a fascinating journey. Don’t forget to fasten your safety belts - and enjoy an exhilarating, if bumpy, ride.

Special Birthdays
Aquarians - if it’s your birthday today, or it falls between January 22nd - 28th, you’re looking at a lively, eventful year ahead. Your ideas are brilliant, please use this cosmic energy boost to do something with them.

Leos - if your birthday falls between July 22nd and July 27th your partnerships are energised in exciting ways. This means professional connections, or longstanding love links. Perhaps both. 

And remember - if you have planets in your horoscope at 2 to 3 degrees of Leo or Aquarius this new Moon is especially meaningful for you, and a fortunate time to begin something adventurous. If you don’t know, why not ask an astrologer?  

 

 

 

 

Moon Diary: January 9th, Full Moon - Cancer the Crab by Jane Lyle

A potent, high-energy full Moon in Cancer means an emotional high tide. At its most positive it’s about focusing on caring for others. We’re thinking about people we love, and those who are suffering around the world. Our feelings are more instinctual, our hearts more tender.

But the Moon’s link with Mars intensifies everything, energy ebbs and flows and anger sizzles or flares up. So if you feel as if you’re doing everything, and your family or partner isn’t contributing much…well, you can imagine the rest. The same vibration affects crowds of people, and if they feel they’re being treated unfairly it’s likely they will take to the streets or plan to strike during the next two weeks. Sport, farming, metal and mineral industries, and land development are in the spotlight. There may be sharp criticism of people on benefits, or anger towards the vulnerable and needy.

And there’s more volatile energy in the mix. The Sun, Moon and Mars are also meeting up with the feisty goddess of strife, dwarf planet Eris.  Yes, more righteous anger plus a strong desire to see justice prevail and hated rivals destroyed. It could get messy. But as the Chinese proverb says ‘ A gem cannot be polished without friction, nor a man perfected without adversity.’ The Moon with Mars and Eris symbolises angry women, female warriors, and female activists on the rampage. Expect at least one prominent woman to speak out, or issue a challenge around now.

Today’s celebrity birthdays include Kate Middleton, Duchess of Cambridge; veteran rock stars Jimmy Page and David Bowie, and actress Joely Richardson. This year will be a memorable turning point for them - and for you, too, if your birthday is today or tomorrow.

Other energised birthdays are:

Aries: April 7th - 11th

Cancer: July 9th - 13th

Virgo: September 13th -14th

Libra: October 10th -14th

Capricorn: January 8th - 12th

 

 

 

 

Moon Diary: Christmas Eve New Moon in Capricorn by Jane Lyle
Innovative, yet down-to-earth, the Capricorn new Moon’s seasonal greeting is one of love and understanding in all its myriad forms. And by myriad, I mean it includes all forms of loving connections, how ever unconventional they may seem.

Yes, many people will be inclined to act on impulse or express themselves in unusual ways. And yes, emotionally immature types may spark off mayhem over the holiday period. Certainly, some of us will be dealing with very strong emotional experiences or surprising events this Christmas time.  But the Moon’s link with Jupiter brings generosity and warmth, while its links with healing Chiron and self-contained Vesta bring us the emotional honesty and clarity to understand others, or even forgive them.

Magically speaking, this is a positive time to focus on what we need, rather than what we want - or think is our right to have. Necessities are not glamorous, but they sustain life. Since each new Moon begins a cycle, this would be a good time to think about what we need, and how we’re going to find that. At her idealistic best, this new Moon says ‘love is all you need’. For millions of people that need for love may translate into food, warmth, shelter, or medicine. Capricorn is practical, not fanciful or overly sentimental.

It has been a remarkable, dramatic year, and 2012 promises another wild ride. This new Moon marks out a time to reflect on everything that’s happened, and to tune into the spirit of the season.

Merry Christmas!  

 

 

 

 

Moon Diary: 10th December Total Lunar Eclipse at 18 Gemini by Jane Lyle
This blood red winter Moon should be visible in Russia, Asia, and parts of Australia. It’s an eclipse on a mission to focus our thoughts, and acts as a catalyst for changes in the way we look at things, and the way we communicate our feelings.

All lunar eclipses favour contemplation, willing or unwilling. This, the final eclipse of 2011, promises some dramatic realisations about our ideals and dreams. It could be time to abandon what’s not working, and make way for new directions, philosophies, and attitudes. But there’s hesitation, vacillation and emotional dithering before we make much headway. Maybe some of those dreams and ideals don’t really belong to you - maybe they are the dreams of your parents or your partner? Are you struggling to make someone else’s vision come true? This is a particularly important eclipse for you if you have planets or angles at 18 degrees of Gemini, Virgo, Sagittarius or Pisces. Expect events to reflect the eclipse message for about six months.

At its best, this is a very feminine full Moon. It connects with both Venus and Ceres, giving us the presence of the capricious goddess of art and love alongside the more maternal, nurturing vibrations of Ceres, goddess of life cycles from seedtime to harvest. So it’s about how we feed ourselves on many levels - from agriculture, fishing. and food production, to intimate relationships and close bonds of every kind. How we express our care for others, our care for ourselves, and for our dreams is a theme that pulses at the heart of this eclipse. And sometimes, despite the best intentions, how we give and receive love and affection can become a bit of a battlefield inside and out. How can we blend light and dark, instinct and reason, love and the need to be free? How can we find balance? The answers may take a while to find.

All the questions raised by this eclipse are emphasised by a group of Centaurs, cantering around the Sun and Moon. Centaurs are mythical creatures which are half human, half animal, and semi-divine. A centaur is the symbolic being of Sagittarius, home of the Sun for this eclipse. Centaurs in astrology represent transformational energy. They are trans-Saturnian objects that cross the orbits of Saturn, Uranus, and Neptune. At the time of this eclipse, Centaurs Hylonome and Pholus are conjunct the Sun. Hylonome is named for a beautiful female centaur, whose basic message is sacrifice - something must be let go if our greater aims are to be achieved.

Pholus is another potent catalyst for change, particularly when it comes to attitudes we’ve unthinkingly absorbed from our families or culture. Pholus stirs up chaos too, a dynamic storm is brewing. His meaning encompasses the idea that from a small moment, a single act, dramatic events can unfold. Centaur Thereus, fierce bear hunter and wild warrior, conjoins the Moon. Thereus suggests that some of us are waiting, like hunters, to attack our prey. That could relate to our ambitions, to a lover, or to a cause. Back to the inner battlefield of this eclipse then. Something’s got to give way so that a harmonious blending can be achieved.

This eclipse is another pivotal one for Europe. The message of change and sacrifice should manifest in moves towards creating something new. This, in turn, affects the USA eventually, adding yet more energy and potential confusion to events and opinions in 2012, it’s important election year. Russia, Asia, and Australia are also highlighted as places affected by this eclipse. We can expect a certain amount of inner turmoil, plus debates about cultural and environmental issues in these locations.

Whatever inner conflict we experience with this eclipse, it is important to remember that growth and change often spring from chaos. What emerges from this inner storm is positive - particularly if we can keep communicating and making interim agreements with one another. Resistance is futile, as they say. But doubtless many of us will resist the call to adventure until the last possible moment.


Eclipse alert! Special birthdays:

This eclipse is very meaningful for you if your birthday falls on one of these dates:

Gemini:  8th June - 10th June
Virgo: 10th September - 12th September
Sagittarius: 9th December - 11th December
Pisces: 8th March - 10th March

 

 

 

 

Moon Diary: New Moon and Partial Solar Eclipse, 25th November 2011 by Jane Lyle

November’s new Moon rises at 2 degrees of fiery, philosophical Sagittarius. It’s a partial solar eclipse with potentially unsettling effects for Europe and the USA - these effects will be rippling out into 2012.

Yet it’s submerged message is clear - if we can explore unconventional solutions to our problems, we’re likely to find an answer. Eventually. But meanwhile, confusion, suspicion, and unexpected events seem to throw everything up into the air.

The eclipse Sun and Moon receive masses of energy from their connections with classical planets Jupiter, Uranus, and Mars. We’re likely to be galloping off in random directions, not sure where we’re going but determined to create change somehow.  And perhaps not even certain what that change might be either….Along the way there are challenges, fights, and battles to be won. Jupiter, ruler of Sagittarius, is the lord of the eclipse. It’s connection with the Moon favours humour, protectiveness, and resilience. Uranus with the Moon electrifies emotions, sexuality, and imagination. It also means emotional detachment, unusual relationships, and sudden emotional events.  Gut feelings, intuition, and the will of the masses (that’s us) seem rule the day - but they must battle with Mars if anything more than turmoil is to be achieved. Inspiration and idealism will not be enough, we must find staying power too. We can expect areas ruled by Jupiter to be in bright focus - the law, sports, exploration, travel, religion and education.

Okyrhoe, one of the Centaurs - objects that orbit between Jupiter and Saturn - conjoins this eclipse too. Sagittarius is symbolised by a Centaur, half human, half horse. Okyrhoe strengthens the Sagittarian eclipse message of standing up for your beliefs and principles in the face of negative criticism or opposition. This centaur’s name means ‘swift running or fast flowing’, something that reflects the feeling of this eclipse. Not only half-woman, half-horse, Okyrhoe was a visionary prophet who, in typical Sagittarian fashion, inadvertently revealed the secrets of the gods. They punished her by turning her into a mare. Her prophetic voice fell silent. Whistle-blowers may be out in force during the months ahead. But will they be punished for revealing awkward secrets?  And what about other people who stand up and tell the truth? They may all be criticised or punished for their honesty.  You can easily imagine how this theme might pop up in your personal or working life too…..Some of us may feel as if nobody is listening, nobody is willing to believe us. But we must try to hold on tight to the truth and keep going.

A rather dubious fixed star, Dschubba, throws further confusion and drama into the eclipse mix. It is the star of suspicious minds, loss, danger, and vengeful plans. It is said to be bad for business in general. Certainly, if people tell the truth or reveal secrets, that can be bad for conventional business and politics - particularly where negotiations or discussions are conducted in secret. Many people around the world would like to see more openness and accountability though. Herein lie some of the tensions lit up by this November eclipse.

Finally, the eclipse conjoins several asteroids whose symbolism and meaning is found in their names. These include Asteroid Juewa, meaning Star of China’s Fortune.  Juewa’s presence suggests that China will play an increasingly important role on the world stage in the coming months.

Two other asteroids close to this eclipse captured my attention. Asteroid Feronia, was named for an ancient Roman goddess who presided over the freeing of slaves, fertility, abundance, travellers, fire and water. Those themes are part of the meaning of this eclipse which, although it is tense and challenging, offers us a message of new kinds of growth - spiritual and creative, rather than simply financial. And there are many kinds of slave after all. We can be trapped and enslaved by toxic love, by debt, by greed or even by negative thinking. It could be time to think about freeing ourselves.

The second asteroid, Fortuna, is named for another Roman goddess, a daughter of Jupiter. Fortuna presides over the great Wheel of Fortune that turns throughout our lives. Round and round and round she goes, where she lands nobody knows…..Perhaps the appearance of these two Roman goddesses suggests a turning point for Italy.

This eclipse is feisty and somewhat tricky. Overall, I think it’s clear that our best bet is to stay true to ourselves, be flexible in our approach to life, and - as ever in these challenging times - expect the unexpected. Yes, a martial arts approach is the stance to favour now, and in the months ahead. Somersaulting in the air is optional.

Birthdates energised by this eclipse are:

Gemini: May 22nd - May 25th
Virgo: August 24th - August 28th
Sagittarius: November 23rd - November 27th
Pisces: February 19th - February 24th

 

Image courtesy of theoi.com

 

 

 

 

Moon Diary: Full Moon in Taurus, 10th November 2011 by Jane Lyle
Power and desire, practicality and seduction are the compelling themes surrounding November’s full Moon at 18 degrees of Taurus.

 

It could be supremely sensual for some of us, but never forget that Taurus is essentially down to earth, while Scorpio – where the Sun is currently travelling opposite the Moon – is the master or mistress of intuitive strategy.  If you’re in the mood for love, you’ll want more than mere flirtation under this full Moon. And since full Moons bring a phase to a close, this one says it’s time to consider getting intimate, or time to find what you really value in love. And to think about values and assets in general. Skills, talents, friends and contacts are assets we can mull over now. And what do you treasure about yourself?  

Meanwhile, wider themes emerge. Dwarf planet Ceres, Greek mother goddess of seed time and harvest, connects with this Sun and Moon. Yes, it’s about food, glorious food on every level – your heart and soul need food too. Back to values and assets again.  Expanding this theme is asteroid Leto, conjunct the Moon. Leto is an ancient, primal Mediterranean mother goddess who brought forth the god of the Sun, Apollo, and his fierce, wild and witchy sister, Moon goddess Artemis. More fertility, more taking care of business and valuing what, and who, we have in our lives. Who knows what we can produce or give birth to from this fertile seed bed?

And what about the desire and seduction theme? The Scorpio Sun meets Europa, one of Jupiter’s Moons, named for a woman from Greek myth. Mythic Europa has given her name to modern Europe. She is a symbol of pan-Europeanism, and she’s even appeared on the Greek 2 Euro coin…..Europa, first queen of Crete, was seduced and carried off by lustful Zeus (Jupiter).  He had turned himself into the most beautiful white bull anyone had ever seen. Just as he planned, she fell under his spell, tenderly decorated his horns with flowers, and rode on his snowy white back right into the sea. The fabled white bull appears in the stars as the constellation, Taurus. Power, desire and seduction indeed. Such themes might be bewitching in the bedroom beneath the light of this full Moon. They may also translate into yet more shenanigans around the Eurozone and its complicated challenges. The sign Taurus is inextricably linked with land, property and money after all. But it likes to keep a close eye on things, and hang on tight to what it already possesses. Scorpio too likes to hold on to things.

A full Moon is not a good time to begin something new. We can conserve, protect, value and treasure what we have instead. If you need a loan, wait a while. While you’re biding your time you could make soup, bake a pie, or kiss someone passionately. Happy full Moon.

 

 

Moon Diary: The Diwali Moon, 26th October 2011 by Jane Lyle
The Scorpio new Moon rises at 3 degrees of this strong, intense sign. It marks the triumph of light over darkness at the festival of Diwali, an important sacred celebration for Hindus, Jains and Sikhs.

Here on earth Diwali, the festival of lights, is a time of firecrackers, sweets, candles and joyful gatherings of families and friends. It’s just before the pagan feast of the dead, Halloween, too. Gods, goddesses, spooks and spectres are gathering all around us. So what does the astrology have to say?

Jupiter stands firm in earthy Taurus opposing this new Moon, The message of this connection is that deep, intimate feelings are intertwined with a powerful desire to protect ourselves and others.  Our spiritual senses are tingling, and our intuition is expanded and strengthened. But the Moon is a changeable creature, and it may be difficult to pin down our dreams as we bob about in this sea of emotions. If you’re longing for someone to make a commitment to you, for example, it may be very hard - even impossible - to reach an agreement with each other now, and in the month ahead. Similarly, dreams of future plans that surface now will need to be refined and tested after that first intoxicating surge of inspiration has ebbed away. Inspiration and passion are precious though, so we must not limit ourselves too much. Just be aware of obsessive behaviour and stalking tendencies, this is a Scorpio new Moon after all. Sitting outside someone’s house in your car is probably a bad move. You know why.

A fortunate fixed star, Princeps, conjoins the Moon, encouraging Scorpio’s detective skills to flow in helpful directions. It favours research, the law, science, and the arts and is an excellent influence if you’re studying or on a fact-finding mission. A positive time, then, for starting projects that need mental focus or for finding out more about someone, or something. Princeps is a star in the constellation Bootes, the herdsman or ploughman. The name means prince, suggesting important news about royalty, religious leaders, and statesmen.

A Scorpio new Moon highlights creativity, and this would be a positive way to channel some of those unruly desires, jealous feelings, and unsettling thoughts brought to light this month. Linking with both Mars and Pluto, the rulers of Scorpio, the new Moon represents a cocktail of dark energy with transformative potential. So, it might be wise to find something for this energy to do. Cleaning house works well now - there are many levels to choose, from giving away unwanted items to space clearing and feng shui.  It’s an important Moon, too, for gardeners, farmers, and those working with agriculture or the land. Time to plan, plot, prune and prepare for the new season in many ways, just choose what’s appropriate for your life. Happy Diwali!

And if you’d like to know more about Diwali, go here:  

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

 

 

 

 

Moon Diary: Aries full Moon Astrology, 12th October 2011 by Jane Lyle

A fiery warrior princess of a full Moon looks set, little darlings, to stir it up every which way this October.

It rises at 18 degrees of Aries, escorted by the dark goddess asteroid, Lilith, and the queen of discord and mayhem, dwarf planet Eris.  Here come the girls - a trio of strong, female energies that take a sharp, pointed stick and poke it, hard, into our inertia, smugness, and lazy expectations. Once again, our lukewarm love of the status quo is challenged.

Now, what this means for you depends upon which side of an argument you favour. The Moon, and her feisty companions oppose the Sun and Saturn, giving us a stand-up stand-off between the masses and the authorities.  This basic message is beamed out loud and clear over the next two weeks, part of a longer ongoing theme. So expect more demonstrations, strikes, and heated debates about global debt, the Euro - all accompanied by the roller-coaster responses of nervous money markets.  The authorities seem to favour one thing, the people another. The Moon is also boosted by Mars in Leo, pouring accelerant on this cosmic fire and eager for battle, action, and self-expression. If you’re an Aries, Leo or Sagittarian (or have planets in those signs) you’ll be super-sensitive to this Moon, and more eager than most to reinvent, reorganise, or fight injustice. Capricorns, Cancerians and Librans will also find themselves in the thick of things with much to play for, much to lose. 

We’ll see these patterns in our personal lives too. There’s a combination of wanting and needing change, but being fearful of loss and upheaval - with many of us tending to think, ‘better the devil you know’.  Aries represents the individual, Libra operates best as part of a group - albeit often preferring to be in charge of that group. In a marriage, love affair, or working partnership, we’ll see those tensions between what we need as individuals, and what we think works best for the marriage or partnership we’re involved in. Perhaps we feel that our boss is blocking our progress at work, or that a lover is draining us with their demands.  Perhaps we’re that lover or that person in charge, unable or unwilling to understand why people are so upset with us. There’s resentment, irritability, and even rage bubbling up all over the place. Of course compromise is possible, and for that we need to be in a calm and rational state of mind in order to discuss possibilities and potential. But sometimes things have to get really dramatic and heated before we arrive at that constructive place and are able to think things through in new ways.

Some kind of deal can be struck, but not without a fight. Saturn, strong in Libra, has dwarf planet Ceres - the great mother goddess - whispering in his curmudgeonly ear. Ceres represents the great cycle of birth and death, the enormous potential locked up in a tiny seed, and the deep mysteries of rebirth. Amidst all the rivalry, anger, and challenging of systems and beliefs, Ceres draws our attention to the bigger picture, the cycles of seasons and of life itself. As goddess of the harvest, Ceres says ‘you’re going to reap what you sow’.  Her astrological symbol is a scythe. As lord of karma and the cycles of time, Saturn wields his own scythe, cutting down what is no longer required. Ouch! After the harvest, we prepare to sow a fresh crop. This is precisely what’s unfolding at this full Moon. And, most definitely, over the next few years. Some advanced juggling skills will be required, but if we can work hard and overcome, or work with, our rigidity and our fears anything is possible. 

 

 

 

 

 

Moon Diary: The Libran New Moon 27th September 2011 by Jane Lyle

 

 

What will be weighed in Libra’s airy scales on this new Moon? And will those scales wobble wildly as they seek balance amidst conflict and upheaval?

Whatever happens, there will be endless talk and analysis going on, for the Moon, at 4.0 degrees of Libra, connects with Mercury and everyone will want to express an opinion. Some of us will have extreme, eccentric, or simply quirky points of view (Moon opposition Uranus). Others, longing for power or change, will reveal secret thoughts, or repeat and spread hidden agendas, scandalous gossip, and classified nuggets of information.  Pandora’s box opens up, lawyers prepare to get involved, and many people are in the mood to challenge the established rules - particularly in partnerships, relationships, marriages, and other alliances such as love triangles and coalitions. What’s harmonious for one person may not be working for the other, and everybody has strong feelings to express (Moon square Pluto, Moon sextile Mars).

Libra is the sign of balance, represented by the scales. But it’s easy for balance and harmony - such beautiful ideals - to become static and stagnant.  Believing things are in balance, we become resistant to innovative change and unaware of how things must always keep moving if they are to remain vital and alive. This should become crystal clear at this new Moon, and in the weeks that follow.  How many times have you thought a couple was ideally suited, only to be shocked when they parted company? The appearance of balance and agreement is not always what it seems. Just be aware that moods will ebb and flow, and that if you want to break up a negative relationship or working situation you may find yourself dithering in true Libran fashion. How important is the status quo? How much does the outward appearance of things matter to you?

This new Moon connects with the fixed star Zaniah in the constellation of Virgo, the Virgin. Negotiations for peace and the freeing of captives come under the meaning of this star - decidedly Libran themes. It is also associated, like Libra, with both love and money - and sometimes with love for sale.  Perhaps that’s why it isn’t thought to be a good star for marriage…..

New Moons mean new beginnings, particularly in the house where they fall in your birth chart. A Libran new Moon favours creating beautiful surroundings, new clothes, or even a new image. On a deeper level, it’s a good time for team-work, asking for assistance, or beginning negotiations.  With its potent aspects, this Moon would be especially good for space-clearing, starting a diet, beginning a course of counselling or therapy, and telling the truth.

Birthdays that might want to take special notice of this new Moon are:

Aries: 25th-26th March
Cancer: 25th-26th June
Libra: 27th-28th September
Capricorn: 26th-27th December

 

 

 

Moon Diary: Pisces full Moon 12th September 2011 by Jane Lyle

Wet, wet, wet! Emotions swirl around this full Moon (at 19 Pisces) like the currents and eddies of a powerful rip tide. Some of us spin in the whirlpool, others crawl ashore having been buffeted and bruised by our experience.

A fantastic release of emotional tension is possible, or an impressive stream of creative energy and blissed-out spiritual sexuality. The answer to this full Moon’s potent and unsettling vibes is to go with the flow and understand that at one level or another resistance really is futile. That’s not to say we must surrender to all our impulses, just that if we feel overwhelmed for a few days it’s ok. And we should avoid – if possible – taking big decisions or making expensive purchases unless everything has been set up far in advance. A sudden urge to upgrade your car, for example, might not be such a great idea. 

This full Moon makes what’s known as a Moon Wobble, meaning the Sun and Moon make a gritty aspect to the Moon’s own axis. This pattern occurs several times a year, and connects with upheavals here on Earth in the form of insane weather and other dramatic events in the news. In our personal lives we’re unlikely to be feeling rational, so roughly between the 10th September and the 20th it might be wise to bear this in mind. If you’re a Pisces, Sagittarius, Gemini or Virgo person (or have these signs represented in your horoscope) you’re likely to notice this cosmic upheaval more than most. 

But chaos can be creative or liberating, a thought to hang on to when things are so unsettled. The Moon is close to a lucky star, Homam, in the constellation of magical Pegasus, the winged horse of myth. Rising above difficulties is the gift of this constellation – just be aware that the Chinese named the star Luy Tien, meaning Thunder. Seeking the calm after the full Moon’s storm is what many of us will be doing I suspect.

The Moon is also close to stars in the constellation of Aquarius the Water Bearer, giving us another powerful shower of water to deal with. Stormy weather? Yes, in our hearts, minds and outside too. But Aquarius is an inventive, productive sign, and if anyone can find a positive way to deal with this inundation, it’s them. Here’s what a 1st century astrologer, Manilius, had to say about the meaning of these stars:
"The youthful Waterman, who from upturned pot pours forth his stream, likewise bestows skills which have affinity with himself: how to divine springs under the ground and conduct them above, to transform the flow of water so as to spray the very stars, to mock the sea with man-made shores at the bidding of luxury, to construct different types of artificial lakes and rivers, and to support aloft for domestic use streams that come from afar. Beneath this sign there dwell a thousand crafts regulated by water. Why, water will even set in motion the face of heaven and the starry habitations, and will cause the skies to move in a novel rotation.”
(Astronomica, Book 4)

 

 

 

 

Moon Diary: Virgo New Moon astrology 29th August 2011  by Jane Lyle
August’s Virgo new Moon rises at 6 degrees of Virgo. Virgo is a materialistic, earthy sign but it is also mutable, prone to fluctuations of energy levels, moods and focus.

This new Moon’s links with Venus, Pluto, Jupiter, Neptune and Uranus give it some serious cosmic oomph, meaning that this would be a good time to begin a project or new routine with a Virgoan theme. Big themes here include well-being and health, order, systems, helping others, daily working routines, and pets and their needs and routines. At one level it’s a clearing-out-cupboards/going-on-a-diet kind of new Moon. At a deeper level it would be a good time to analyse your relationship if you need to, or think about how friends, colleagues, or family members can support and help each other.

The influence of this Moon is very social, too, bringing out a desire to see friends and participate in our neighbourhoods and communities. How we use or waste resources is something we can seriously consider – and that includes governments and nations who will be wondering how best to use what they have, or do not have available.

The link with Pluto suggests critical debate about security, crime, and terrorism in the news. Public opinions may be very different from what we hear from our governments about crime and security issues. A new Moon offers a symbolic fresh start, but there must always be a conscious decision to make that new beginning.  Virgo is a communicative sign, so talking about things should work well – just be aware that minor niggles could assume gigantic proportions for a few days, and remember to allow time for ideas and impulses to settle before making big decisions.

 

 

 

Moon Diary: Full Moon in Aquarius 13th August 2011  by Jane Lyle

You might think a full Moon in Aquarius would highlight rational thinking. But somehow, I don’t think this particular full Moon will be cool, calm or collected.

Aquarius is a fixed air sign, and it can be very dogmatic and prone to a ‘because I say so’ kind of attitude. This might not be an ideal time for helpful discussions or debates because many people will be in an uncompromising, volatile mood.

The Moon links up with Venus, Mercury, and the Moon’s nodes. All of this suggests volatile, fluctuating emotions; spontaneous connections with others; inconsistency and uncertainty. Yes, you might feel quite flirty or in the mood for pleasure, but your mood (or the mood of your friends) could change suddenly, or your attraction to someone fade unpredictably. Similarly, promises made under such a Moon are quite likely to be written on the wind, or based on emotional feelings which then change or fade away. The same changeable feelings apply to things we acquire, from major investments such as a car, to a pair of jeans or a new hairstyle. Finding a spiritual centre or place of calm reflection is the answer - but frankly, quite a challenge for most of us.

Out in the wider world, the focus is on trade and commerce - but again, the emotional atmosphere makes it difficult to make long-range plans.  Promises or alliances we make with each other are likely to shift and change, and the same atmosphere affects discussions between politicians, governments, nations and other large organisations. It is easy to be bombastic, but difficult to be objective. 

Overall, there are high levels of tension and possibly violence floating around in the atmosphere - Mars, god of war, meets Pluto, lord of the underworld, and Uranus, unpredictable god of sudden events and upheavals. A tense atmosphere simmers underneath ordinary daily life for the rest of August, and into an autumnal war of words and ideas. This is, then, a time to treasure what, and most importantly who, you have and what you truly value and love.

 

 

 

Moon Diary: Leo New Moon astrology, July 30th 2011 by Jane Lyle

Showtime! Swashbuckling romance and flamboyant glamour pulse at the heart of this, July’s second new Moon, rising at 7 degrees of fiery Leo. The second of two new Moons in a month is sometimes called a Black Moon, but under this Moon the darkness is bewitched by fairy lights and sensual mysteries.

Jupiter and the Moon connect today, making this a good date for parties or intimate gatherings and celebrations. It’s a fortunate, fertile Moon for relationships and friendships, promoting warm, protective feelings towards those we love and encouraging us to make generous, expansive plans for the future. And if today’s your birthday, this is your year for beautiful new beginnings.

The themes of success, help and expansion are further added to on this new Moon thanks to its conjunction with the fixed star Asellus Borealis, in the constellation of Cancer. Once upon a time, long ago, the stars in this constellation marked the summer solstice.

Ancient Egyptians linked these stars with the sacred scarab beetle - symbol of the eternal cycle of death and rebirth. At that time these stars were believed to be a portal, a magical place that souls travelled through on their way into life here on earth - a gateway of life and vitality. Traditionally the Chinese also connected these stars with the spirits of the ancestors, and believed that strange psychic experiences with spirits might occur when these stars were activated, as they are by this new Moon.

Spirits, in many eastern philosophies, can be helpful to us or come to us in dreams, bringing information or guidance. Souls, spirits, or just somebody solid and human to help you….all positive experiences should be embraced now.

Traditionally, this would be a splendid new Moon for focusing on attracting love, success, and all good things. And whether or not you believe in spells and enchantments, it’s a heartwarming time to be generous with yourself, and with those you love. 

 

 

 

Moon Diary:  Full Moon in Capricorn astrology, 15th July 2011 by Jane Lyle

Money, money, money - the Capricorn full Moon shines on the material world, on our resources, land and property. What makes us feel secure? What have we got, what do we need?

The answers to these questions could be unexpected or unusual because the Moon links up with Uranus in a subtle way. Capricorn often favours conventional thinking, but Uranus is quite the opposite, suggesting that the answers to our dilemmas may not be obvious. They could be eccentric, radical, or even revolutionary.

Apply this theme to global financial problems, or to personal worries about cash, home, and emotional security - the off-the-wall solution might be the very one to work most effectively. Certainly, this would be a good time to at least consider innovative possibilities for earning money, taking care of family members, or simply taking care of yourself.

At its best, Capricorn has tremendous practical energy and the ability to solve problems.

The full Moon also makes a subtle, complex link with the Dragon’s Tail (Moon’s nodes) in Gemini.

 

Trade and transport are highlighted by this combination - it might be that large numbers of people are on the move at this time. Trading across borders, and the availability (or lack) of products to buy and sell are similarly highlighted now.

 

Compromises and adjustments are needed to get things flowing - blockages and problems around supply and demand will have to be thought about very carefully.

 

The mood of this full Moon, and the questions it raises about our ‘stuff’, reminded me of this poem by William Wordsworth, written just over two hundred years ago at the dawning of the Industrial Revolution...Perhaps it really is time for a change?


The World is Too Much With Us
The world is too much with us; late and soon,
Getting and spending, we lay waste our powers;
Little we see in Nature that is ours;
We have given our hearts away, a sordid boon!
This Sea that bares her bosom to the moon;
The winds that will be howling at all hours,
And are up-gathered now like sleeping flowers;
For this, for everything, we are out of tune;
It moves us not. Great God! I’d rather be
A Pagan suckled in a creed outworn;
So might I, standing on this pleasant lea,
Have glimpses that would make me less forlorn;
Have sight of Proteus rising from the sea;
Or hear old Triton blow his wreathèd horn.
William Wordsworth, 1807

 

 

 

 

Moon Diary: Partial Solar Eclipse, 1st July 2011 by Jane Lyle

July begins with a partial solar eclipse at 9 degrees Cancer.

 

Since it’s path arcs along through the southern polar regions, very few people will see it - but the penguins may sit up and take notice. Eclipses at this degree of Cancer last occurred on June 30th, 1973, and June 30th 1992. Are those years meaningful ones for you - for instance, you may have been born in 1973 or 1992. Think back, life experiences and lessons this year could be similar to what happened back then. This is also the first eclipse in a brand new Saros series, 156.

This eclipse resonates with last year, a time when the cardinal signs of Cancer, Capricorn, Aries and Libra were at odds with one another, a time when an intense desire for redemption and new beginnings struggled with the desire to maintain the status quo, the desire for business as usual on the part of individuals, institutions, and governments. We’ve seen that impulse for change rise up all over the Middle East this year as people challenge old, repressive regimes - and continue to do so. And we’ve seen stubborn resistance to change too - notably in the financial sector. This eclipse highlights these issues in our world, and in our own lives too. Change and new beginnings are exciting, yes, but scary and nerve-wracking too.

This Cancer new Moon, in the sign of the universal mother, connects with Saturn, strong in Libra, and symbolic of authority, structure, the law and patriarchal attitudes. So on a personal level it’s about our parents, what we’ve absorbed from them, and how we look after and discipline ourselves as adults. How do we restrict ourselves? Do we block or inhibit our own emotions in a bid to cope with situations that make us nervous or even afraid? These are the kind of feelings many of us may be dealing with around the time of this eclipse, and for months afterwards. But there’s more. The links with feisty, revolutionary Uranus and secretive, powerful Pluto, suggest profound struggles and turbulent emotions all around us - mirroring what’s inside us, and encouraging us to find a practical way to manifest our dreams.  Secrets, and hidden feelings surface in individuals - revelations and revolutions erupt on a larger scale out there in the world. 

Specifically, the Moon’s link with Uranus suggests emotionally volatile individuals who may be leaders, or in charge of prominent organisations. At its best, it denotes innovative ways of caring for others, at its worst a chilly detachment. It’s an unconventional vibration - nurturing versus freedom, emotional chaos and disruption versus traditional values. The Moon also connects with Pluto, bringing a message of emotional intensity. There’s also the possibility of exposing corruption or other criminal practices, and discussions about privacy, taboos, and secrets on a large scale - when is a secret a positive thing? When do people have a right to know? Pluto also rules terrorists and other individuals who work in secret to disrupt or destroy things. There are other indications of turbulence, strange weather, dangerous moods and catastrophes around this summer. For astrology geeks, I’m talking about the Moon’s north node connecting with the baleful fixed stars Ras Alhague and Lesath, the sting in the Scorpion’s tail. Somewhat unsettling, poisonous influences, basically.

Better news is that the eclipse degree conjoins the fixed star Alhena in the constellation of Gemini. It’s a bright white star in the left foot of the celestial twin, Pollux. This star, like the eclipse itself, seems to be connected with causes, ideals, and demonstrating in public for one’s beliefs. It is linked (as is the eclipse) with some important events in American history. It is also connected with Nelson Mandela’s horoscope, and with that of the eighteenth-century navigator and explorer Captain Cook. If you think about their lives and achievements you’ll see how the symbolic message of the star can be glimpsed in their determination and refusal to embrace defeat.  In the midst of all the powerful energies of this eclipse Alhena’s message might be ‘best foot forward’, although determination to rise above difficulties or even losses and wounds will be required.

In your own horoscope this eclipse will energise the house of Cancer, or any planets or angles at around 9 degrees of this sign, of Capricorn, Aries or Libra. The Sun and Moon in your horoscope are especially sensitive if they are at this degree of Cancer, opposite it (Capricorn) or squaring it (Aries and Libra). An astrologer can tell you much more about the possible effects. Important birthdays affected by this eclipse are:

Aries:  March 29th-31st
Cancer:  June 30th-July 2nd
Libra:  October 1st-3rd
Capricorn: December 30th-January 1st

As I’ve said before, this is an important, meaningful eclipse for America, Canada, and the UK. And it opens up many possibilities during the remainder of 2011 for those with eyes to see and ears to hear…..

 

 

Moon Diary: The full Moon total lunar eclipse, 15th June, 2011 by Jane Lyle

It’s one of the longest, darkest lunar eclipses we’ll ever see. Lasting one hundred minutes, this remarkable eclipse is visible across large areas of the world.

The whole thing will be visible from East Africa, the Middle East, Central Asia and Western Australia. But totality will be visible all over Europe (except for northern Scotland and northern Scandinavia), and even in Brazil, Argentina and Uruguay. The zenith occurs close to Reunion and Mauritius. Altogether, it promises to be quite a spectacular event.

The sight of a blood-red Moon would have sent shivers running up and down the spines of our ancestors, who invariably viewed eclipses as omens of doom and catastrophe. Astrologically they are simply catalysts, a burst of super-charged energy activating planets and angles in the horoscopes of people and nations. Lunar eclipses can sometimes signal the removal of certain situations or relationships. Like the period around an ordinary full Moon, things tend to come to a head or culminate at such times. 

So what about this one?  The full Moon is at almost 25 degrees Sagittarius, connecting with the Moon’s nodes, with Mercury, Mars, Saturn, and the Galactic Centre in the Milky Way. A time of reflection and adjustments leading, eventually, to creative flourishing might be the long-range message of this eclipse. Sagittarius rules journeys - our trips and holidays, and also our journeys into the realms of knowledge, spirituality, emotions, and philosophy. Wonderful ideas and dreams need practical work to make them come true, which is where stoic Saturn and dogged Mars in Taurus come in. And those adjustments I mentioned, which quicksilver Mercury in Gemini suggests could be alive with multiple options.

Mars in Taurus connects with a fixed star called Algol, the blinking eye of the Demon, the Medusa, or the Gorgon, her snaky locks squirming away. Yes, it is rather sinister and much associated with disaster, war, and losing one’s head literally or figuratively……But we must always remember that the blood of the Medusa’s severed head mingled with Poseidon’s (Neptune) salty ocean waters to produce Pegasus, that beautiful white, winged horse of Greek myth.  So again, there’s the message of something uplifting and inspiring being born from the depths of something negative or even horrifying. This theme has already been developing for many weeks - the Medusa has much she wants us to learn it seems. Adjustments are a strong theme here too. One way or another, certain situations cannot continue as they were. If we try to resist, or refuse to negotiate with others and ourselves, then we imprison ourselves - or like the Medusa’s mythic victims, turn to stone.

Finally, the eclipse connects with the Moon’s Nodes. This is sometimes called a Moon Wobble, and is associated with times of transition, change, upheaval and civil unrest. Whatever’s happening with you, it isn’t the best time for big decisions - events may overtake you, or you’re likely to change your mind before too long. Many astrologers also associate both Moon Wobble and eclipses with extreme weather events, or geophysical upheavals such as earthquakes and volcanic eruptions. The Moon Wobble effect begins around 5th June, extending to 25th June - time to steer a steady course if at all possible, and wait and see. Again, taking a stubborn stance is not a very positive way to work with these energies. Staying centred and flexible, like a martial arts master, would be the way to go. Or just keep a low profile!

Widely visible, this dramatic lunar eclipse also activates many national horoscopes around the planet.  News and events linked with these countries may stand out this month, and in the months ahead. Those with planets at 25 degrees of Sagittarius are:

Ivory Coast; Niger; Benin; Albania; Colombia; Iran; China; Ecuador and Australia. There’s also a link with the UK in one of its significant historical horoscopes - some surprising news for Britain this June perhaps.

Those countries with Gemini planets activated in their charts are:

Israel; Tunisia; New Zealand; Lebanon; India; Pakistan; and Iceland.

Whatever it may bring, I am certainly looking forward to seeing this eclipse. If you wonder whether you’ll be directly affected, please do ask an astrologer.

 

 

 

 

Moon Diary:  Partial Solar Eclipse 1st June, 2011 by Jane Lyle

June’s new Moon at 11 degrees Gemini is a partial solar eclipse. It’s visible from the high latitudes of the northern hemisphere - Alaska, northern Canada, Greenland, Iceland, and parts of north-east Asia. An eclipsed midnight sun will be visible in Norway, Sweden, and Finland. Ancient astrologers believed that where an eclipse was visible identified the locations most affected by eclipse energy.  If this theory works, we may expect news and events connected with the polar regions, and northern Scandinavia. Certainly, Iceland’s national horoscope is activated by both June’s eclipses.

So, what message might this eclipse have for you and me?  Eclipses are catalysts, basically. Their effects can often be felt a month beforehand (that would be around the end of April, beginning of May), or a month later. The 1st July, exactly a month from this eclipse, sees yet another partial solar eclipse, this time in Cancer.  A busy, turbulent summer season then. Some experts say eclipse energies endure for much longer, it’s a complex subject. You’ll notice the eclipse energy more if it connects with a planet or angle in your horoscope - so if today’s your birthday, for instance, it  connects with your Sun, and your year ahead promises to be special and memorable in some way.

This airy Gemini Moon links up with Saturn in equally airy Libra, favouring hard work, serious thinking, team work and parenting skills. It’s a new Moon, so generally a good time to begin a project - don’t expect things to run smoothly at first though, and consider any offers or deals with extra care. This is, after all, an eclipse. Gemini communicates, so news, information, or even discoveries that appear now will shape our decisions and opinions. Saturn is cautious, too, the voice of authority counselling a sedate, measured approach. The Libra-Gemini mix suggests looking at the rules - whether this means regulations around commerce, economics and trade, or those often unspoken ‘rules’ we follow in our friendships, love and family relationships. This might be a positive time to talk about those things and make a fresh start.  Saturn likes to remove things too, pare things down. Under this new Moon that might include negative attitudes, or worn-out ways of relating to each other.

As for the fixed stars, the eclipse connects with the stormy fixed star Tabit, in the constellation of Orion the Hunter. It’s said to have a positive influence on trade, but warns of poisoning, wild weather, and uneven energies flying around. The Moon will also be very close to one of the four great royal stars of the Persians - Aldebaran, the eye of the bull. It is the Watcher of the East, a star linked with the medieval Crusades, and symbolically connected with the archangel Michael, military leader of the heavenly host.  East and West, a familiar theme in our world today, and one that’s rarely out of the news.  But perhaps this eclipse might be a positive time to try, yet again, to negotiate or talk about peace in the Middle East? We can but hope.

 

 

 

 

Moon Diary:  full Moon in Scorpio astrology, May 17th 2011 by Jane Lyle

The full Moon rises at 26 degrees of smouldering Scorpio on May 17th, 2011.  Scorpio is a fixed water sign, favouring secrets and deep emotions, hidden away but bubbling beneath the surface like lava inside a volcano.

This is no time for any sane and sensible person to rock the boat in love, or anything else, but the urge to do so may be irresistible for many of us. Oh, and try to avoid thoughts of vengeance too. Whatever you do is likely to have unpleasant consequences.

Dramatic possibilities abound. The Sun in Taurus is conjunct the baleful fixed star, Algol - a star with charming names such as The Ghoul, the Medusa’s Head, and the Demon Star.  It was considered a star of great power for good or ill in ancient times - its intensity can be channelled into tremendous feats of creativity. Artists Pablo Picasso and Salvador Dali both had Algol prominent in their horoscopes, as did Albert Einstein. Prince William, like his mother Princess Diana, also has Algol represented in his natal chart. The Medusa herself was a Gorgon whose hair was a mass of writhing serpents. One look from her could turn you to stone. She was beheaded by the mythical Greek hero Perseus. When her severed head hit the sea her blood created a beautiful winged white horse, Pegasus - this gives us a clue to the tremendous, soaring creative potential locked within this star’s symbolism.  The dark side of Algol is full of poison (those snakes), beheadings, war, murder, and general doom.

The full Moon connects with generous Jupiter (by quincunx for the astrologically curious), and with Neptune, god of the sea and planet of dreamscapes. Neptune, or Poseidon to the Greeks, was the father of Pegasus - returning us to the myth, the Gorgon’s head, and the power of this full Moon to stir our emotions, our creativity, and the world’s oceans. But just like an oyster irritated by grains of sand, the pearls we might create will need adjustments and work. Our loyalties to others are all lit up, and our commitment to ourselves and our own potential needs to be acknowledged and taken seriously. Jupiter in Aries is in a tearing hurry, Neptune in Pisces is promising mystical music and intuitive knowledge. Somehow, we must weigh things up and work out how to connect our dreams, ideals, and deepest emotions with everyday life.

These intense themes linger until the Gemini new Moon, and partial solar eclipse, on 1st June. But because Mars will connect with Algol at the time of the total lunar eclipse and Sagittarian full Moon on the 15th June, I suspect that we’ll be experiencing waves of strong emotion for much longer. If you have a planet or angle at 26 degrees of Taurus, Leo, Scorpio or Aquarius you may be more sensitive to all this.  Don’t know? Ask an astrologer.

 

 

 

 

Moon Diary: Taurus new Moon astrology 3rd May 2011 by Jane Lyle

A new Moon rises at 12 degrees of sensual Taurus on 3rd May, 2011.  Lush, fertile and more than a little bit magical, this Moon makes a beautiful, spiritual connection with Neptune (a quintile), planet of dreams and much else. So this should be a wonderful time to unleash our imaginations, to begin cultural projects or artistic ventures, to express our love and sensuality, or simply revel in the scent of herbs and flowers.

Traditionally, a new Moon in Taurus is not a good time to begin anything that requires radical or revolutionary energy. For a start, it tends to be laid-back and sensual. Secondly, Taurus is conservative. It favours what is already there - established values and situations - and likes to protect those things. But not all new projects need super-dynamic energies do they? Sometimes patience and persistence can achieve more in the long run. They are the positive attributes of Taurus, the valuable side of all that stubborn, obstinate, hooves-planted-firmly-in-the-mud energy that Taurus can exude. Agriculture and associated businesses are highlighted by this Moon - if you think about it, growing crops is a slow process - growing a project, or a business, can be just as painstaking. 

That arch-conservative, Saturn, is still around too, connecting with the Moon from Libra - the other sign ruled by Venus. But those cautious vibes work better now than they did in April - favouring longstanding associations and partnerships a little more - and impulsive actions a little less. Saturn also links with the planet Venus, there is a tug of war going on, a tug of love, or a cutting off perhaps. If a parting has been delayed or discussed, but not made final then this new Moon could be urging us to say farewell, let’s move on to the next stage. With so much Venus around, that stage could be a friendship if both people agree. Since new Moons represent beginnings, any cutting off that happens this month simply opens the door for a new start, a different phase.

The Moon and Saturn together also symbolise parents and parenting both in our own experience, and in the wider world as organisations that give us rules and boundaries (Saturn) or feed and nurture us in some way (Moon).  It can represent limited or constrained emotions, difficulties with fully expressing our feelings to others. Sometimes this is connected to our childhood experiences, or what we learned from our families. So this might be a good month to think about some of these issues, or sort through some memories looking for emotional patterns or inhibitions with a view to addressing what blocks energy and joy. 

There is considerable healing potential in this new Moon’s chart.  It makes connections with national horoscopes for Australia, Lebanon, Bosnia-Hercegovina and Swaziland.  These countries and their people may be in focus in the news this month.

 

 

 

Moon Diary: Full Moon astrology, 18th April 2011
By Jane Lyle

April’s airy full Moon rises at 27 degrees of Libra, the sign that signifies our relationships in love and business - and both harmonious links with others, and with our open enemies or detractors too. So all those links are in focus, and many of us will be thinking about our connections - how they work and what they mean to us - more than usual.  Certain things must end or change, so we are thinking about that too.

There’s a romantic, even dramatic atmosphere around for some of us, for the full Moon connects with slushy Venus in Pisces, and with the fateful Moon’s nodes. And while you might imagine much sweetness and moonlight kisses, there is also more than a hint of turbulence during the days around this Moon. Issues of control and even confinement tussle with dreamy blissed-out moods and playful impulses. If you have planets in late Pisces, Gemini, Virgo or Sagittarius, you’ll be longing to chill out. If you have planets in late Aries, Cancer, Libra or Capricorn you may be the one wanting to get organised, pin things down, draw up contracts or set a wedding date. We’ll be aiming for harmony and compromise, but it could be hard to achieve at this time without a sacrifice of some sort.  

Ask yourself, ‘what began around the time of the new Moon on 3rd April’? Shared projects, a relationship phase, something we’re involved in with other people - all of these gather a sense of urgency now as feisty Mars and Mercury in Aries boost our desire for progress, and need to get our ideas across. Since full Moons are about culmination, it’s a positive time to think about how those new beginnings are shaping up. Information could surface now that changes how we see a team, a relationship, or even how we deal with someone spiky and difficult. Maybe we can try to relate to someone in a new way and leave the past behind?  Try to be tactful, Mars and Mercury together can spell impulsive, angry words. Oops.

Out in the big bad world, expect some juicy indiscretions in the days around this Moon - or a very public hissy fit and split - perhaps romantic, political or in entertainment. Trade agreements and transport don’t sound terribly exciting, but some drama surrounds them - as it surrounds big agreements and arrangements in general.

Stay centred, and this full Moon could be sexy and productive. Get careless, and those Libran scales are all set to wobble wildly.

 

 

 

 

Moon Diary: Aries New Moon astrology, 3rd April 2011
By Jane Lyle

April’s new Moon rises at 13 degrees Aries, close to expansive Jupiter and slap bang opposite curmudgeonly Saturn in Libra. Now, new Moons represent a fresh start each month and none more so than a new Moon in Aries, the enthusiastic first sign of the zodiac.

But this time it’s not so simple, because Saturn introduces a note of caution and restraint – perhaps even a fear of making a fool of yourself, or a lack of confidence in what’s new and untried. This is a complex new Moon – here are some of the possibilities it brings to the next few weeks:

There’s a parental theme here because the Moon symbolises the feminine, and mother, while Saturn is all about authority, limits, time, and the traditional image of the father as rock and rule-maker. Some thinking about what we’ve learned from our parents might be helpful this April, and how some of that is positive and helpful, while some of it could be holding us back. Similarly, how we deal with authority figures (Saturn) or people who try to help us or nurture us (Moon) is in sharp focus in our relationships, at work, and in the wider world. If you’re busy playing insecure games of control in your relationship, watch out. It could be exhausting and tricky. In the end, nobody wins and love dies.

It’s tricky because Saturn is sitting uncomfortably with a fixed star called Algorab, in the constellation of the Crow. On the plus side, Algorab brings courage and righteous anger into the mix. We fight for that fresh start we need. On the negative side, it can be a spiteful trickster – a nasty piece of work who tries to manipulate you, or who scavenges what it needs with little thought for others. If someone is using you for your energy, time, creativity or sexuality this new Moon will shine a light on their tricks. If you’re guilty of playing those tricks yourself….well, beware. Algorab is also linked with magical powers, and its constellation, The Crow, is a bird belonging to the ancient death goddess of northern Europe. Murder most foul might be a step too far, but revenge could be in the air. And Saturn is the planet of karma and endings too.

On the other side of this stand-off is the new Moon, very close to Jupiter and expanding our emotions and impulses.  It is conjunct the fixed star Alpheratz in the constellation Andromeda, the chained woman. This ancient Greek damsel in distress was sacrificed by her father to a gigantic sea monster. Don’t worry, she gets rescued from the ravenous beast by a handsome hero and, yes, they get married. So, for some of us, a difficult situation could be turned into something of lasting value if only we can break away from what binds us.  Alpheratz is a positive star, associated with freedom, love, riches and popularity. If we lose something – such as a job, a relationship, or a dream – chances are the loss will make room in our lives for something better eventually. Endings can be beginnings too.

In the wider world the loss of power or position suggested by the aspects around this new Moon could be in the news, as a once-popular leader or entertainer is demoted in the first two weeks of April.

 

 

 

 

Moon Diary: The Extreme Super Moon, March 19th, 2011

By Jane Lyle

Photo taken over The Astrology Room HQ, London, England. 8:30pm GMT, 19th March 2011

It’s an extraordinary, rare event. On March 19th the full Moon will be at its closest to Earth since 1992. This event is known by many astrologers and astronomers as an extreme Super Moon – a term coined by noted astrologer Richard Nolle back in 1979.  And many commentators expect it to cause chaos, extreme weather patterns, or even earthquakes and volcanic eruptions.

These very special Moons occurred in 1955, 1974, 1992, and 2005. They seem to coincide with wild weather and geophysical events, plus many of us know intuitively that the time of any full Moon can stir up irrational emotions and strange feelings here on earth. The physical influence of an extreme Super Moon generally begins to be felt about three days beforehand, and three days afterwards.  But to pump up the volume still further, this full Moon will also be square to the lunar nodal axis – known as the Dragon’s Head and Tail – another traditional indication of dramatic events and natural upheavals on the earth around us, and in our own emotional worlds too. The influence of this angular pattern usually kicks in about a week beforehand, and lingers for some days afterwards – so roughly between March 12th to March 25th we can expect an increase in disruptions and confusion inside ourselves, and in the world around us. 

So how does the astrology of this amazing Moon reflect the promise of chaos, even disaster? The full Moon rises at 28 degrees of Virgo the Virgin, a mutable earth sign that fluctuates continually between active and passive. Like all full Moons it opposes the Sun. This month the Sun, in Pisces, will be very close to that anarchic, electrifying planet of revolution, Uranus – suggesting sudden, and perhaps explosive surprises are brewing for many of us. A Virgo full Moon is usually a good time to focus on your home surroundings, on preparation for projects or ambitions, and on money for home improvements. It’s also a good time to think about what you eat – Virgo favours organic foods and the purity or otherwise of our water, air, and environment. Under this special Moon, you may also experience sudden flashes of inspiration around those ideas – or decide to go on an extreme or eccentric diet of some sort.

The fixed stars that connect to this full Moon reveal a consistently watery theme.  The constellations are: Argo Navis, the Ship; Eridanus, the River; Cetus, the Sea Monster, and Crater, the Cup, Mixing Bowl or Grail Chalice – a constellation symbolically associated with liquids including water and wine. There could be unusual downpours, storms, floods or volcanic eruptions beneath the seas. Oceans of emotion are a definite human possibility here…..some of us might feel as if we’re not waving, but drowning. Temporarily. A sense of perspective will be hard to achieve, it is not the right time to make snap decisions about your relationship or get swept away by a mysterious stranger. Out there on planet Earth the tides will be high and the rain will be falling – we must try to keep at least one foot on the ground. And go outside and gaze at the enormous silver disc of this full Moon. Whatever it brings, we won’t see another like this for quite a while.

 

 

 

 

Moon Diary:  New Moon astrology March 4th, 2011 by Jane Lyle

The new Moon rises at 14 degrees of watery Pisces on March 4th, lighting up a string of planets in this emotional, mystical sign. The zodiac necklace consists of the Sun, Moon, Mercury, Mars, Uranus and Chiron. This looks wonderfully inspiring and spiritual in some ways, woundingly deceptive or sacrificial in others.

But sometimes love requires a sacrifice if you think about it – parents sacrifice things for their children, older children sometimes sacrifice things for their parents, for example. Or we spend time caring for someone we love who is sick or disabled. Less healthy forms of sacrifice are found in relationships where that well-known game of victim and rescuer is played out, each person locked into a mutually-destructive pattern with its roots deep in the past. This new Moon highlights the things we do for love, and it shines on psychic abilities, creativity, and spiritual values too. Its background influence lasts for two weeks, until the full Moon later this month.

At its most fundamental level, this month’s new Moon favours rest and contemplation. Changeable Pisces is not just the sign of the new Moon on her own. It is strongly represented, carrying us along on a glittering tide of fantasy, beautiful illusions, and dreams of mermaids and water sprites. It would be, traditionally, a magical time for plotting to confuse your enemies, or for planting false clues designed to mislead others. Spin doctors and certain sorts of sales personnel should be in their element. But step through the looking glass and we ourselves may be misled, bedazzled, or confused by other people…….so perhaps weaving a tangled web of deception isn’t such a brilliant idea.

Saturn, planet of tradition and authority, connects with the Moon in a mysterious yet powerful way. People who think in conventional terms may struggle with the Piscean oceans of emotion unleashed by this new Moon. And people floating around in a filigree fairyland may resent being limited or controlled by authority. Interesting times for relationships then - Saturn in Libra can be said to represent legal marriages and civil partnerships, while the Piscean planets are romantic to the core, but a tad elusive when it comes to sharing the less glamorous elements of a committed relationship. The same goes for idealists and visionaries – confronted with the processes of government or law they may react in negative ways. Agreeing to communicate, and probably agreeing to disagree too, is one way to diffuse the tension. Resolving it permanently, though, must wait for another day.

And for those who enjoy legends and fairy tales, this Moon perfectly conjures up the ancient Celtic legend of the fair Melusine, a beautiful, faerie woman who grew a serpent’s tail every Saturday in her bath. Her adoring but insatiably curious husband discovered her secret against her wishes, for she had forbidden him from ever seeing her at bathtime. Once discovered, she transformed herself into a dragon and instantly flew away, never to be seen again.  That’s the kind of thing that can happen under a Pisces Moon. You have been warned.

 

 

Moon Diary:  Full Moon astrology February 18th 2011  by Jane Lyle

February’s intensely dramatic full Moon rises at 29 degrees of fiery Leo. What kind of drama can we expect in the days around this event?

All full Moons represent some sort of culmination, and this one is in the very last degree of its sign, Leo – strengthening the symbolic idea of endings and conclusions. But because it challenges Mars, Chiron, and Neptune, it is not only fixed and uncompromising about its message, it is likely to stir up aggressive speech, actions, and chaotic energies all around us.  Creative chaos nurtures life, energy and imagination, that’s what could be positive about this time. So, on the highest level a good time for night-time dreaming, for seeking spiritual guidance, or digging around in books of ancient wisdom. Be cautious and centred though.  Neptune’s psychic spiritual vibrations can descend into seductive delusion and illusion in the blinking of an eye.

If your birthday falls at the end of one of the four fixed signs – Taurus, Leo, Scorpio or Aquarius – this full Moon is definitely one to watch. Similarly, birthdays at the very beginning of the four mutable signs – Gemini, Virgo, Sagittarius and Pisces - are energised. Your emotions may overwhelm you, while your ability to think straight or act rationally could dissolve for a few days. Anyone with planets, or other important points in the horoscope, at this degree will also feel this full Moon more than most. It’s a doubtful, dodgy time to sign anything legally binding, but a fruitful time to indulge your imagination in private. If you’re not sure about your chart, why not ask a professional astrologer.

Special sun sign birthdays are:

Taurus/Gemini:  If your birthday falls between May 18th and May 23rd then the influences of family background, close friends and workmates on your life choices are highlighted. Disagreements can lead to new developments.

Leo/Virgo: If your birthday falls between August 21st – August 24th you’re dealing with other people, and you may question their motives or feel isolated, temporarily. Play a long game and keep a low profile if you can.

Scorpio/Sagittarius: If your birthday falls between November 20th – November 23rd then expect circumstances outside your control to affect your career. Deep down, you want a change.

Aquarius/Pisces: If your birthday falls between February 16th – February 19th you may find yourself in a disruptive mood. Try not to throw all your toys out of the pram. You’ll soon see things a in new light.


And just to heap more fuel on the lunar fire, this full Moon is also conjunct the powerful fixed star Regulus in the constellation of Leo. This star’s meaning is associated with the rise and fall of kings, queens, prominent leaders, and high-ranking military men. Regulus was one of the four Royal Stars of Persian astrology, called the Watcher of the North, and associated with the archangel Raphael in some traditions.  Looks like this full Moon marks the dramatic end of an era – or the beginning of a new one - for one or more very prominent, powerful or famous people. Such events affect all of us too.  But, as Carl Jung wrote, ‘In all chaos there is a cosmos, in all disorder a secret order.’

 

 

 

 

 

Moon Diary: New Moon astrology 3rd February 2011  by Jane Lyle

February’s feisty new Moon rises at 13 degrees of Aquarius on the 3rd in Europe, Africa, Asia and Australia. In America it rises on the evening of the 2nd. It also marks the beginning of the Chinese Year of the Rabbit.  The horoscope for this new Moon has sizzling emotions and assertive actions written all over it, partly because the Moon is embracing Mars, the planet of energy, sexuality, fighting, and desire.

But because this is all happening in cerebral Aquarius, the fights and impulsive acts we see are very likely to be fuelled by ideas and beliefs and, I hope, use words as weapons rather than fists, guns, or knives.

Fighting for freedom, for humanitarian causes, scientific exploration, and for individual self-expression is the theme here - and since this is a new Moon the fight has only just begun. If you’ve been longing to get your point of view across, you may not be able to hold fire any longer - for many of us our sense of justice or fairness will push us to tell it like it is, and never mind the consequences. Aquarius is a sign linked with the group, and with shared projects and causes. So if you belong to a neighbourhood action group, or are involved with any kind of activism or protest, this might be an excellent time to do some serious lobbying or raise awareness by using social networking sites. Your efforts should have electrifying results.

It could be a provocative time for relationships too, since Moon in Aquarius tends to have an unconventional view of love and commitment. If your relationship is stagnant, or if you both care too much about presenting a respectable, conventional face to the world, then there could be some razor-sharp honesty, volatile emotions, or unusual surprises in store during the next two weeks. Aspects to Uranus, the ruler of Aquarius, further emphasise the concept of freedom, and ask us to think about what it really means for us as individuals.  What is freedom within a relationship? Are we free to express our emotions, to communicate how we are feeling, to be ourselves? Whether involved in a relationship or not, these are vital questions - and ones we need to ask ourselves at regular intervals. 

For the spiritually inclined, new Moon in Aquarius is a positive time to focus on telepathy, psychic research, meditation and visualisation exercises. If you’ve been thinking about internet dating, this might be an interesting day to sign up to a website - Aquarius and its ruling planet, Uranus, are closely associated, symbolically, with technology. It is also an excellent time to begin original, wild, or eccentric projects or sow the seeds of revolutionary changes in your life and times.

And finally, because Aquarius is all about the kingdom of the mind, here is Robert Frost’s intriguing poem to inspire you on your journey:

The Road Not Taken
Two roads diverged in a yellow wood,
And sorry I could not travel both
And be one traveller, long I stood
And looked down one as far as I could
To where it bent in the undergrowth;

Then took the other, as just as fair,
And having perhaps the better claim,
Because it was grassy and wanted wear;
Though as for that the passing there
Had worn them really about the same,

And both that morning equally lay
In leaves no step had trodden black.
Oh, I kept the first for another day!
Yet knowing how way leads on to way,
I doubted if I should ever come back.

I shall be telling this with a sigh
Somewhere ages and ages hence:
Two roads diverged in a wood, and I-
I took the one less travelled by,
And that has made all the difference.

 

 

Moon Diary: Full Moon in Cancer, 19th January 2011 by Jane Lyle

January’s emotional full Moon rises at 29 degrees of Cancer, bringing surprising luck to some of us, and surges of deep, soulful feelings to many others.  Our emotional connections are highlighted over the next two weeks - if you’re Pisces, Cancer, or Scorpio you may notice this more than everyone else.

 

The Moon connects with Jupiter, Uranus, Neptune and Chiron - meaning that both luck, expansion, and what we like to call fate are activated now. Certainly, memories will be stirred up. We might want to become more conscious of old patterns of relating to others. The kind of patterns it’s hard to see most of the time, but the kind that don’t always serve us when we’re trying to build a good relationship. Is one of you doing all the work? Is one of you trying to rescue the other? Is there a manipulative game of victim or martyr going on? If your birthday (or significant planets in your horoscope) falls in the late degrees of Taurus, Leo, Scorpio or Aquarius you’re being prodded by life, conversations or encounters to think about how you’re dealing with all your relationships - friends, family, workmates and lovers. February’s full Moon will also offer you a nudge in this direction, so it’s a theme that will be around for a while.  Birthdays are:

Taurus:  May 18th-20th
Leo:  August 20th-22nd
Scorpio: November 20th-22nd
Aquarius: February 16th-18th


And, of course, Cancerians, Capricorns, Aries and Librans - who’ve been in the cosmic spotlight for quite some time - will be continuing to look at the structure of their lives.  Whether this means relationships, home, or career will depend on other astrological factors - yes, ask an astrologer for more information. If this is you, you probably already know it’s time for a change or development of some kind.

At its glowing, silvery best, this full Moon suggests experiences of grace and beauty - wonderful music, art, healing or blissful love. At its worst, it could trigger painful realisations about the nature of love, or even bring up a situation that means you must let go of something or someone. The Moon is in her own home sign, Cancer, and with the connections to Neptune and Jupiter it suggests swelling waters and human tears. Mostly, I hope, they will be tears of joy and relief.

 

 

 

 

Moon Diary:  New Year, New Moon - Partial Solar Eclipse 4th January 2011
By Jane Lyle

2011 begins with a sober, earthy, partial solar eclipse in Capricorn at 13 degrees 39 seconds. This eclipse will be visible, early in the morning, in North Africa and Europe, reaching the point of greatest eclipse over northern Sweden.  It is visible in the Middle East, Central Asia, and as a sunset eclipse in Russia, Kazakhstan, Mongolia, and North Western China. There will be four partial solar eclipses this year, and two total lunar eclipses - an unusual event.

The Moon connects with Saturn in Libra, doubling the Saturn vibration, since Saturn rules Capricorn, and is exalted (that is, operating at full throttle!) in Libra. So far, so grown-up and restrained. Financial matters, governments, and everything to do with how authority works with, or connects to, the masses will be in the spotlight. Gaps in understanding between those in power and those they are supposed to serve are energised and highlighted during the coming months. Expect more protests, from demonstrations to local or collective movements whose aim is change. There is tension between the rules, in whatever situation - home, work, travel, politics - and what makes sense.  And yes, it seems to suggest a truthful and realistic beginning to 2011. Possibly too realistic for some of us, there are few frills here and hysterical emotions will simply leave us cold.

A parsimonious and frugal beginning in some ways. But true love (as opposed to romance) and dedicated effort fare well.  If you're working hard at your relationship, your studies, your job or your determination to get organised then this is a tough, yet productive time to begin. What you achieve will endure. There's also the chance that valuable information or lessons from the past will surface around now, and over the coming months. These will help us make sense of events, or plan more productively for the future. And since the final electrifying, anarchic meeting of Jupiter and Uranus in Pisces occurs on the very same day, a little bit of calm caution could be very helpful to us all.

Eclipses are about change - even crisis - and a new Moon always symbolises a beginning of some sort. On this eclipse, it is less about big dreams and more about taking small steps towards some tangible goal. Upheaval and surprises may swirl around our heads as 2011 opens, but the eclipse energies represent the still, small voice of calm - and of individual endeavour and determination. It's about working with what you've got, rather than what you wish you had.

If your birthday falls on the following dates, the eclipse will have a bigger impact on you and your year ahead. Please do remember that even if your birthday isn't mentioned, this doesn't mean that the eclipse might not energise a planet or other sensitive point in your horoscope. A professional astrologer can tell you about this.

Special birthdays are:

*January 3rd - 5th               
February 3rd - 4th
March 4th - 5th
April 3rd - 5th
May 4th
June 4th
July 5th-7th
August 6th
September 6th
October 6th - 8th
November 6th
December 5th - 7th

Out in the wider world, this is an especially important eclipse for the United States of America, the United Kingdom, and for Turkey (also energised by December's lunar eclipse).  Other places whose horoscopes are activated are Singapore; Russia; Georgia; Niger and Bulgaria.  If you are travelling to, or living in any of these locations, then you can expect some ongoing restrictions and disruptions this year. Political events may seem quite dramatic; weather, public health, and geophysical events could also be agents of upheaval or news. The eclipse ushers in a very meaningful and eventful phase for these countries during 2011. Echoes of thirty years ago are likely to become clear as the months pass.

The solstice lunar eclipse on December 21st, and the solstice itself, began a new phase. This solar eclipse is, overall, a positive one, but a shift is occurring now that may take us all a while to process.  Happy new year!

*Please note: If your birthday falls between January 3rd and January 5th then this promises to be a particularly eventful and significant year for you because the Sun in your horoscope will be conjunct this eclipse. An excellent time to have your chart done if you'd like to discover what this means for you personally.

 

 

 

 

Moon Diary: The Galactic Total Lunar Eclipse 21st December 2010
By Jane Lyle

A total lunar eclipse takes place on the Winter Solstice, 21st December, 2010, at 29 degrees of Gemini. It will be visible all over Europe, East Africa, Asia, Australia, the Pacific, and North America.

It has significance written all over it for a number of reasons, but most notably because it is opposite the Galactic Centre - a dark ribbon of sky in the Milky Way, our home galaxy. For the ancient Egyptians this was the portal to the Netherworld, the sacred destination of the souls of the dead, the place where they enjoyed eternal life. For many spiritual people today, it represents a place of higher consciousness or wisdom. The Moon will also be conjunct the ninth brightest star in our skies, Betelgeuse, a gigantic, powerful red star in the constellation of Orion the Hunter. This mythical, mighty warrior was born from the mingled urine of three Greek gods - sea god, Poseidon (Neptune), father of the skies, Zeus (Jupiter), and the fluid messenger god, Hermes (Mercury). This constellation is therefore, amusingly, associated with plenty of water - rainfall, tempests, and storms at sea.  So perhaps we can only guess at how portentous this eclipse will prove to be, bearing in mind that its influence lasts for about six months. We are looking at powerful symbols, connected with leaders, kings, global corporations and the super-rich. Their roles in our lives are sometimes subtle or hidden, until some dramatic news alerts us to the part they play.

The eclipse belongs to a series of full Moons at the last degree of a sign. This degree is all about finishing things, ending phases and themes in a truly emphatic way - a need for a proper full stop.  In Gemini, super-charged by the eclipse, this might highlight communication, or the lack of it, in our lives. It connects with how we communicate, what, where, when, and why. And since it also links up with electrical Uranus, social networking and other internet based forms of talking to each other will be in focus. The same goes for mobile phones, texting, twittering, and so on. Those who advocate digital detoxing or giving up watching television for a while may get some serious media attention during the coming months. Are we entering a new phase, communicating in new ways? We can wonder how real our online ‘friends' are, how much information we really want to share with the entire planet, or how best to use online dating sites.

Certainly the mix of a full Moon in chatty, restless Gemini linking with Uranus, boundary-less in sensitive, psychic Pisces, suggests innovative ways of thinking about how we use technology globally, and the effects of globalisation on our finances, culture, brains and beliefs. Look at a classic movie from the 1930's or 1940's and watch how people used to use the telephone, and how this has changed. Then you'll see how our relationship with new technology, and how we use it with our friends, family, and workmates, may develop and change too.  And, you know, you have choices in how you communicate, and this lunar eclipse might be a positive time to think about changing that so that you find it more fulfilling, or less time consuming. Neptune's dreamy influence is also around, pumping up the psychic and intuitive parts of our minds, and possibly increasing the chances of scandals, secrets and lies coming to light. In Aquarius, this, too, suggests internet-based leaks, hacking, or even computer viruses. Just think twice before writing that email or posting that photo!

This Winter Solstice eclipse is also conjunct the Pole Star, Polaris, in the constellation of Ursa Minor, the Little Bear. This star, which never sets, shines directly over the North Pole; stars in this constellation have guided travellers on land and sea for thousands of years - just as the Magi were said to have been guided by a star on their journey towards Bethlehem. It is sometimes known as Stella Maris, the Star of the Sea - a name of mythic goddesses such as Egyptian Isis, Greek Aphrodite, and Mesopotamian Ishtar. It is also a name given to the Virgin Mary.  So, many magical, seasonal connections surround this eclipse. It's influence over the coming months looks complicated and dramatic for many of us. But I think the potential for guidance on our personal journeys is there if we can stay true to ourselves, and allow ourselves to speak from the heart, and listen.

If you'd like to know more about the astronomy of lunar eclipses, please visit http://www.mreclipse.com for a wealth of fascinating information.

 

 

 

 

New Moon 5th December 2010

By Jane Lyle

December's new Moon in Sagittarius the Archer tunes in to the philosophical, intuitive side of this adaptable fire sign. So although this is the party season, the next couple of weeks are coloured by a higher, more inward-looking vibration too.

It's like ribbons of red wine swirling down through a glass of water. We may enjoy smaller, cosier gatherings of friends, or, if we're attending some big party find ourselves wanting a proper chat with one or two people, rather than running about frantically socialising and networking.

The Moon in astrology represents (amongst other things) our unconscious drives and habit patterns. This one makes links with Saturn, Chiron, Neptune and Uranus. These symbolise rules and structures (Saturn), healing (Chiron), dreams and intuitions (Neptune), and exciting innovations (Uranus). So this new Moon offers us the chance to understand our habitual ways of thinking or responding to life - few of us are fully aware of emotional patterns of behaviour, or take the time to question our beliefs about ourselves.  We can be more dogmatic than we realise - ‘but I/we always…..' is one little clue to those deeply-ingrained points of view. The time leading up to the Christmas holiday can stir up difficult memories, or make us dread spending time with certain relatives. People can feel lonely, sad, stressed and overwhelmed with feelings of guilt and obligation. New ways of looking at routines - including our ways of thinking about our lives - can be effective now. And even tiny changes can have a big impact.  You know, like fixing a broken lamp or a dripping tap. Ask yourself how much energy you waste being irritated by some small everyday annoyance. You may be surprised by the answers you discover.

New Moons are always about fresh starts. So why not invest time and imagination in joyful rituals, or create some new ones for yourself and those you love?

 

 

 

21st November 2010: Full Moon in Taurus

November's full Moon rises in earthy Taurus. Practical, materialistic, stubborn and sensual, this is a Moon that highlights both emotions and desires.

It's another in the series of full Moons at the 29th degree of a sign that began in October, a pattern which continues into early 2011. This Moon, poised on the brink of Gemini, could be a potent one if your birthday falls around these dates:

20th-21st May (Taurus/Gemini)
22nd-23rd August (Leo/Virgo)
21st-22nd November (Scorpio/Sagittarius)
18th-19th February (Aquarius/Pisces)

Or, of course, if you have planets in your horoscope at this sensitive degree.

It's potent because the connections surrounding this full Moon are complex.  What's practical (Taurus Moon) is challenged by Neptune's fantasies, dreams, and strong feelings that the forces of destiny are at work in our lives. Some of us may be all too eager to rush into the arms of fate, enticed by that seductive stranger, or lucrative deal, without realising there is usually a price to be paid, or a difficult lesson to be learned on the journey through life. Taurus is all about caution and maintaining the status quo, which sits uneasily with visionary Neptune and his current constant companion, Chiron, in their role as spiritual agent provocateurs. Realisations and thoughts you've suppressed for months, even years, pop into your head and need to be considered properly. We can always choose not to change. But it is not always a very life-affirming choice to make.  

Expansive Jupiter and mad, eccentric genius, Uranus - travelling together through Pisces - also fling a little emotional, creative mayhem into the full Moon mix. Emotions ride a rollercoaster to bliss, people fall in love at first sight, rush to buy a romantic, dilapidated cottage by the sea, or invest in an insane alchemical scheme to turn base metal into gold. Feelings could get switched on and off at high speed - the atmosphere promises to confuse, but at the same time enlighten some of us by shaking up our certainties, and showing us which outworn attitudes hold us back.  Pisces is a sacrificial sign, and this full Moon could see many of us realising what we must lose or sacrifice if we are to expand and develop in our lives. There could be much soul-searching accompanied by bottles of wine or intoxicating cocktails.  For some of us, there could be exciting lucky breaks or astonishingly creative moments.

Venus in Scorpio's involvement further expands the theme of emotion, passion, and challenge around this time. Sexual tensions and bedroom fireworks are likely, with the chances of break-up or make-up sex pretty high on the agenda. The need for emotional connections without words could be very strong. And Taurus is, after all, a sensuous sign.

This Moon also connects with the fixed star Alcyone, in the Pleiades - a constellation associated from ancient times with human tears and heavy rainfall. So yes, all things considered, there will be tears before bedtime. But since this is no time to suppress emotions we must remember that tears can be healing, and a strange kind of peace can be their gift.

 

 

 

 

New Moon in Scorpio, 6th November 2010

November's new Moon has strong connections with the traditional, ancient Celtic new year, and all the legends and rituals surrounding Samhain (or Hallowe'en, if you prefer).

A Scorpio new Moon is, like October's Libran new Moon, about our links with others. But something vital has changed.  While the Libran relationship theme tends to be about talking, and public symbols of relationship status, such as marriage, the Scorpio theme is deeper than words, and full of telepathy, instinct, and sexual passion.

This Scorpio new Moon is a time to consider our deepest feelings, and connections that seem fated or karmic in some way. ‘Soul mate' is a term that sometimes sounds very romantic and poetic. Yet if you believe someone is in your life for a purpose, or that you have a karmic link with that person, then now's the time when we may realise that our link is less like a sugary sweet dream and more like a restless night, even a nightmare. 

What we learn from, and experience in our relationships - including close friendships - isn't always easy to digest, understand, or forgive for that matter.  Too much light, in fact, can cast a very inky black shadow. So this Moon glimmers on a darker landscape than usual. There may be fights and arguments, resentments, anger, and passion. It's possible to heal something under Scorpio's rays, but not without searing honesty and a willingness to look within. Scorpio's essence is not about simply talking things through. It is intense, and completely disinterested in keeping up appearances or impressing anybody. Scorpio seeks the kind of union that involves mind, body, and spirit. It dreams of the alchemical transformations of sexual energy that can lift both lovers into another realm.  Such energies can be as intimidating as they are bewitching. They lie at the heart of eastern tantric teachings, and have been explored by those who practise sex magick in western cultures.

If you have planets at 13 degrees of a fixed sign - Taurus, Leo, Scorpio, and Aquarius, this new Moon promises to energise your horoscope and bring deeper feelings to the surface.  And even if you don't, the potent vibrations of a Scorpio new Moon suggest that the themes of secrets, destiny, and passion will be all around us. Some candlelit relaxation in a calm, quiet space or a warm, scented bath is always a delightful thing to do. Under such a Moon, it might also be essential.

 

 

 

Full Moon in Aries, October 23rd 2010

It’s full Moon in Aries again, but this time right at the very end of the sign (29 degrees).  September’s full Moon was at 0 degrees of this fiery cardinal sign. The 29th degree of a sign is called the ‘anaretic’ degree – it’s the point of transition between one zodiac sign and another, a place where the expression of the sign is softened or even weakened in some way as it picks up the vibrations of the incoming sign. In this instance, practical Taurus. If you have a planet or important point in your chart at this degree, this full Moon is especially meaningful for you.

Not to say it isn’t meaningful for everyone, for it strongly symbolises finishing things up; cutting ties; or creating a clean, blank space ready for something new. This is, after all, the beginning of the dark time of the year here in the northern hemisphere. The time of the last harvest, and of preparing the ground for winter. In the southern hemisphere, it is also a time of preparation for spring and summer, and of leaving the winter season behind. Either way, preparation and saying goodbye to something or someone are highlighted.

Mars, Uranus, Neptune and Chiron gather around this Moon too. There’s confusion and sad or bewildering dreams, all mixed up with the overwhelming desire to cut and run, make it stop, shout out ‘I’ve had enough!’ or vow ‘no more Mr. Nice Guy’, slam the door, and stomp off.  Mars, strong in Scorpio, brings raw, salty emotions. Chiron in Aquarius brings the desire to analyse past trauma or injustice. Neptune brings his usual misty fantasies and illusions, while Uranus reminds us of how much we wanted our freedom back in the spring, and asks how come we’re still in the same trap? As you can see, perhaps not the very best time to make a huge, sudden life-changing decision. But a wonderful time to prepare for it with focus and intention, rather than procrastination. It’s time to think about your commitments and contracts too. What would you like to change? What doesn’t work? What can you do to improve things?

A wise friend once told me a great way to get things moving when they seem to be stuck. It seems like the right time to share it. You make a list of all the things that are draining your energy or annoying you and begin by dealing with the simple ones, such as a dripping tap, lumpy pillow, or pile of useless junk in the hall. I was amazed how well it worked, and how much mental energy is used up by such small irritations. The larger, more momentous things don’t become easier or less painful, they just seem less intimidating. Change and personal growth are rarely achieved without a struggle, or some emotional pain. But as you clear clutter from your head in this way, one step at a time, you make a space for a more positive present and future. It’s a kind of magic really.

 

October 7th 2010 : New Moon in Libra

October’s new Moon sits in the scales of airy Libra, sign of partnerships, balance, harmony and beauty. So this new Moon symbolises beautiful beginnings in love, in your profession, appearance, or the general gorgeousness of your home surroundings. This next month could be an excellent time to focus on such things.

But partnerships of every sort can also involve power struggles and negotiations. Libra’s natural house is the seventh, the house of partnerships and - we must remember  -  open enemies.  Since Libra is a sign with much mental energy, some of these partnership struggles emerge as arguments, or very heated discussions as each person fights to present their own point of view. The ultimate aim may be to establish harmony, but it can be hard going getting there.

This particular new Moon appears in the circumpolar constellation of Draco, the Dragon, and is also conjunct the fixed star Algorab in the constellation of Corvus, the Crow or magical Raven, bird of prophecy. Links with the celestial Dragon on this new Moon suggest that, like the dragons of myth and legend, protecting gold and treasure will be a theme for many of us - from the global money markets to our own savings and investments. The dragon breathes his legendary fire in fables and mythologies all over Europe, the Middle and Far East. As a glittering creature with great, leathery wings he is symbolically associated with flight, airwaves, space, and airborne toxins and infections. These themes resonate with this new Moon too.

The fixed star Algorab is also associated with the theme of power - but the power is out of balance because it has been seized, as in military or board-room coups.  Extreme manipulation, threats, or other aggressive behaviour is being used by one person (or a group) to get their own way at the expense of another’s freedom and well-being. As another winged creature, the Raven’s constellation is also linked with the idea of flight, and strong winds.

So, one way or another, this new Moon highlights partnership issues and conflicts for many of us. Venus (ruler of Libra) and Mars are currently in Scorpio, too, giving the planets of love and desire a very passionate, intense expression. Fluffy sentiments won’t work now, but honesty and fearlessness are favoured. Fresh starts demand nothing less - fortune favours the brave.

Stormy weather? Perhaps. But stronger partnerships do eventually emerge from times of struggle. Or the relief of dissolving them brings another kind of resolution. Certainly, an excellent time for us, or our governments, to begin working out the ground rules for new agreements.  Looking for love, or beginning a professional partnership are also activities we might like to begin now. Just be careful what you wish for.

 

 

 

 

23rd September 2010 is a very special day. There’s a super-potent full Moon in Aries, and it is also the autumn equinox here in the northern hemisphere - or the spring one if you’re located in the southern hemisphere.

Both celestial events stir up all those patterns we’ve been living with this past summer, acting as a kind of culmination, a cosmic crescendo, a great big ‘ta-da’...

All full Moons represent culminations, but because this one ties in with other important planet patterns it is poised to have a greater impact on us. And in a curious topsy-turvy way, it is also about beginnings. Perhaps the kind of beginnings you’ve only imagined, ideas you’ve played around with since April or May, projects that have lived mainly in your head. Every beginning needs a clear pathway, so the clearing out vibe of a full Moon makes sense too. You’ll be especially sensitive to this one if your birthday falls on these dates below. But please do remember that anyone can have these sensitive points in their natal horoscope, and you need your personal chart to tell you that.

Birthdays that might want to pay particular attention to this full Moon are:

• Pisces/Aries: 17th March - 23rd March

• Gemini/Cancer: 17th June - 24th June

• Virgo/Libra: 19th September - 25th September

• Sagittarius/Capricorn: 17th December - 24th December

The energy will feel familiar as we remember what we’ve half forgotten, or find ourselves simply having to deal with something that seemed to go away for a little while. No. It’s back. And yes, it does promise to be turbulent. But it is also inventive, revolutionary, and potentially dynamic. A fascinating fixed star, called Scheat, in the constellation of Pegasus is also present on the astrological stellar stage. This constellation is symbolised by that beautiful, white winged horse of Greek mythology, Pegasus. He carries thunder and lightning for the gods as he soars upwards on powerful wings. But he can also fall to earth, and so is associated with people who are over-reaching themselves in some way. Sooner or later, they too will fall. So we’ve got storms of inspiration, emotion, and possibly real storms here on earth. Scheat is linked to both extremes - positive invention and fresh, original thinking, or dramatic accidents in the air and at sea.

A diverse range of countries resonate with this full Moon. In South America there’s Brazil, Peru, Guatemala, El Salvador and Colombia. In Eastern Europe there’s Romania, Slovenia, Latvia, and Bosnia Herzegovina. India and Pakistan continue to be in news focus, as do North and South Korea. There are others too, but these groups seem to stand out. Events concerning these countries and their people, culture, and even their history are likely to find their way into the news around this time. And because the Moon coincides with the equinox, the effects are said to linger until the winter solstice in December.

Magically, this is traditionally an excellent time for banishing bad influences, particularly once the Moon begins to wane in Aries. If you’re not magically inclined, then it is an equally good time for chucking out unwanted belongings, clearing rooms, gardens, or banishing your most repetitive negative thoughts. Seeking inspiration for a new direction is another use of this energy. You might not be ready to begin, but you can clear your mind of mental junk and make a space where inspiration can flow.

This seasonal turning-point always seems to bring a sense of excitement, change, and even determination to begin anew. And never more so than this September. Enjoy yourself, and seize the day.

 

New Moon September 8th 2010
September’s new Moon rises in meticulous Virgo the Virgin Maiden, a sign that constantly moves between active and passive, fluctuating like all the mutable signs do (the others being Gemini, Sagittarius, and Pisces). We are in transition now, moving between the seasons. Preparing for fresh beginnings and reflecting upon the past tunes in to this Moon’s vibrations perfectly.

Virgo rules our everyday routines, our work - but not our ambitions, our well-being, and also our pets, gardens or pot plants. The Moon here invites us to turn our attention to what’s around us at home, and also have a closer look at our habits, routines, and well-being. Yes, it’s about health, but health is not just about the body. It’s about the mind and spirit too. Stuffing your face with cake might not be a great habit to have, but negative thoughts or a refusal to admit you’re unhappy with something in your life can undermine your energy and well-being too. So think of this new Moon as an opportunity to heal something, cleanse something, or see what you’ve learned from your experiences over the past few challenging months.

This new Moon is closely connected to two stars, Mizar and Alcor, in the constellation Ursa Major, the Great Bear. Astrologers associate the meaning of this constellation with contemplation and reflection, with an inward-looking phase, and a time when many of us will need a little space - even if only for an hour or so in the bath, or on a walk. Without that, some of us might get a little cantankerous! Ancient astrologers associated these two stars with mourning, too. This makes sense if you think about the inward, thoughtful mood that comes with the acceptance of sorrow. But you don’t need to be sad to want to think quietly about things. Both traditional folk magic and astrology agree that a Virgo Moon is a great time for healing thoughts, or lavishing some love and care on your home, pets, and anyone who’s unwell or in need of help.

In the wider world, Ursa Major is the constellation traditionally linked with Russia, whose symbolic animal is a great, powerful bear. Symbolically, we do think of Russia as a country of secrets, deep thinkers, and dark nights. So watch out for news connected with Russia, or Russian culture around the time of this new Moon.

 

Main picture: The Siren of the Wildsea from "Legends of the Black Forest" (1890). Courtesy of http://Fromoldbooks.org

 

 

 

 

The August Full Moon - 24th August 2010
August’s full Moon rises in glamorous, changeable Pisces. It sits amidst a complicated web of aspects, weaving dreams and spreading confusion, caprice, secrets and lies. If you’re prone to confusion, expect more. If your emotions are running at high tide, expect a flood. Take everything with a pinch of salt, and avoid negative friends if at all possible. Also avoid anything requiring meticulous planning, or beginning projects that require clear objectivity. For a day or so, this will be in short supply.

On the other hand, inspiration hovers over the creative, the spiritual, and the erotically inclined. If you feel like drifting in a fantasy world for a few hours, this is the time to indulge yourself. Music, poetry, heady perfumes and potent cocktails may beguile you under this influence. The world of illusion flourishes, giving performance artists a thrill, painters an obsession, audiences a memorable night out.

This particular Pisces full Moon may herald turbulent rainstorms, delayed journeys, and news items about air travel, ships, floods, drugs and scandals.

According to magical sources, this is a terrible Moon for spell-casting. It will all unravel or have mad, messy, unintended results. Better by far to go with the flow and wait for a more propitious time.

All full Moons are a good time for finishing things up, clearing things out, and reviewing your thoughts. On this one, though, be aware that you might not be seeing things as they really are, but through the distorting lens of the fish’s gaze. Sweet dreams…….