May 2024; Jupiter enters Gemini!

 

This month the Sun transits through Taurus and enters Gemini, Mars starts it’s cycle through Aries, and Mercury transits through the last half of Aries again, due to its retrograde in April and Venus completes a cycle in Aries and enters Taurus. Pluto turns retrograde and the most significant aspect this month is Jupiter’s entrance into the sign of Gemini. May’s new moon is in Scorpio and the full moon is in Gemini Now, the details.

Jupiter enters Gemini May 25-June 8^th, 2025

Jupiter is the planet of gain and expansion and wherever it goes in your chart is where you will see the greatest gain and luck.

Jupiter is called ‘the greater benefic’ and Venus is the ‘lesser benefic.’ Gemini is ruled by Mercury, the planet of communication, commerce and young people. Our luck during this transit will come in the form of ideas, communication, travel, education and it will be a great time for publishing, speaking, writing, singing and the like. It will necessitate a broad minded approach and you may want to leave your comfort zone behind when it comes to new ideas.  The last time Jupiter was in this sign was June 11, 2012-June 26, 2013.

Jupiter in Gemini is considered to be debilitated in the sign of Gemini which simply means it is not as comfortable in this sign as others. Nevertheless, we can expect gain and expansion wherever it falls in your chart.

Jupiter in Gemini is chatty, expansive, optimistic, broad minded, and prone toward big ideas, plans and education.

 Where and how it helps you depends not only on where it falls in your chart but the aspects it makes to other planets. Let’s take a look at what Jupiter will do over the next year;

May 25, Jupiter enters Gemini

May 31-June 2^nd Jupiter sextiles Pluto

August 17-22, Jupiter squares Saturn

October 9^th, Jupiter turns retrograde until February 4^th, 2025

December 24-25^th, Jupiter squares Saturn

Jupiter’s sextile to Pluto is brief but positive. This is a good time to present ideas, work with groups, kick off new projects or enter into financial agreements.

Jupiter’s square to Saturn is not as positive. Jupiter square Saturn can often relate to business deals or opportunities, but it is also a time of financial reckoning, or looking at financial matters from a more conservative viewpoint.

Saturn forces us to look at reality and our limitations while Jupiter is about expansion. When the two clash it can bring to reality the fact we have to re-look at something in some way.

Of course transits like this always play out in the world in a significant way and in this case we can expect more significant clashes between the 2 political parties in the US, and this aspect could affect money and the financial markets as well.

When Jupiter retrogrades its energy often turns inward and we have to back up and re-consider some of our plans. This is often a time of planning and reorganizing in some way. Jupiter’s retrograde can be compared to a racehorse; there is a time to run and compete and there is a time to train for the upcoming race. The retrograde would be the latter. Jupiter’s benefic rays are not as powerful when the planet of gain is retrograde. While you should not anticipate it, there are times the retrograde can work in reverse.

Jupiter in Gemini will affect the signs in the following ways. If you know your ascendant use that.

-Aries-immediate family, short trips, learning, communication

-Taurus-money, earned income

-Gemini-When Jupiter is in your sign you can gain personally in many different ways. This occurs only every 12 years.

-Cancer-Jupiter in the 12^th can be a subtle type of spiritual healing. You may spend more time alone and help comes at the last minute.

-Leo-Jupiter in the 11^th house means you do well with friends, groups and have a higher chance of attaining your hopes and wishes.

-Virgo-This year should be great for your career as Jupiter transits your career house.

-Libra-Jupiter in the 9^th house can expand your education, travel and world view. Great for publishing.

-Scorpio-Jupiter in the 8^th house increases your potential financially as it rules ‘other people’s money,’ partner’s money or corporate money.

-Sagittarius-Jupiter transits your 7^th house of partners and committed relationships.

-Capricorn-Jupiter transits through your house of work and health

-Aquarius-Jupiter transits through your 5^th house of children, friends, and love

-Pisces-Jupiter transits through your 1^st house of home. Your family could expand or you could move, redecorate or enjoy your home.

April 30, Mars enters Aries through June 9^th

Mars is the planet of action that rules the way we approach things, take action and go after what we want. It also rules men and sex. For the past six weeks Mars has been in gentle laid back Pisces. We will experience quite an energetic shift when Mars enters Aries.

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

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

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

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

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

Independence, confidence and courage are all Aries qualities that we can embrace during this period. As Aries rules the first house of the zodiac this can be a time for new beginnings, new experiences and new and greater confidence in our own abilities to inspire others and lead. We will have plenty of opportunities to put our ideas and plans to the test when Mars enters Taurus.

May 2^nd, Pluto retrogrades until October 12th

Pluto retrograde is not anything like Mercury retrograde when things can go off the rails, and many times may go unnoticed unless it is making a significant aspect in your own personal chart. Pluto retrogrades every year for approximately half of the year and its affects occur on a very subtle level.

This year Pluto will retrograde back into Capricorn one more time from September 3^rd-November 19^th. At this point it will return to Aquarius for the next 20 years! We have been dealing with Pluto in Capricorn since 2008. Pluto’s square to Uranus kicked off the worldwide banking crisis.

To say Pluto in this sign has been difficult in the world is an understatement. In 2020 when Pluto was conjunct Saturn we experienced the worldwide spread of Covid.

During Pluto’s two and a half month final swing it will remain at 29 degrees of Capricorn and the 29^th degree is considered critical. We are wrapping up old things in preparation for something new but this often brings a crisis.

Never in our lifetimes have we seen the level of political turmoil, disarray and corruption in the US. There is a leaning toward authoritarian governments not only in the US but around the world. Democracy has never been stretched so thin, at least not in the 19^th –early 20^th centuries. Unfortunately this will be more of the same for this period of time.  Corruption, patriarchy, control, hierarchical systems and power grabs are all words that can describe Pluto in this sign.

While Pluto Aquarius is far from perfect the difference is that over the next 20 year period the shift will be toward the people as opposed those who are at the top as a result of corruption, control and power grabbing. Then again, the world will never be perfect and in all reality we will probably never see a time where this is completely stamped out but Aquarius is the sign of the humanitarian. The last time Pluto was in Aquarius the world experienced both the American and French Revolutions, resulting in change, although those times were not particularly peaceful. By the time Pluto enters Pisces in 2044 the world will be an entirely different place.

Issues relating to money, joint finances, investments, lawsuits, partnerships and sex will become more internalized during Pluto’s retrograde, allowing us to look at things from a different viewpoint. Pluto is about making deep change that goes beneath the surface slowly. One way of looking at Pluto’s retrograde is destruction of that which is no longer working, which will become obvious to us over time. Pluto wants to uncover things and bring them from the darkness and into the light so positive change may occur. This works on a collective as well as personal level.

Issues involving control, money, sex or power may appear to lose steam during this time, but these issues are not really going away, they are just going underneath the surface, where activity is still occurring on a subconscious level. In a sense we are backing up, to reconsider important ideas and new information. In essence we are being given an opportunity to delve into the deepest parts of our subconscious mind to understand how we really feel, and what we would like to change.

When Pluto turns direct again any issues we have failed to deal with will surface again both in our personal lives and on the world stage. But, as Pluto retrogrades we have the opportunity to look at things from a different perspective and effect a slow transformative change that can be permanent and make our lives stronger.

During Pluto’s retrograde it is often a good time to consider your deeper thoughts, feelings and instincts about where you are going. If you are not happy with things this period can be used to make change that will be obvious on a more significant level when Pluto turns direct in October.

May 7^th the New Moon falls in Taurus

This month’s New Moon falls at 18 degrees of Taurus. Taurus is ruled by Venus, the planet of love and money so most of us can expect these things to be on our mind. Venus also rules beauty and loves luxurious items, settings and great food.

What sets this New Moon apart is its conjunction with Uranus. A new or full moon conjunct Uranus often brings the unexpected and unpredictable circumstances. You could experience this time as electric and exciting or alternatively it could be irritating and full of disruptions, depending on how you approach things. Moon/Uranus is an aspect that deals with women and our emotions or even family members.

Fortunately the Sun and Moon’s sextile to Saturn will help keep us grounded and give us a better basis for stability at this time.

May 15^th Mercury enters Taurus until June 3^rd

Mercury is the planet that is associated with speech, thinking and all types of communication, and as it changes signs our thinking and style of communication change along with it. Mercury also rules our intellect, ability to analyze, pets, travel, siblings and immediate family members.  Get ready for communication to go from direct, bold and straightforward, to a more laid back and relaxed style.

While Mercury was in Aries we felt inspired and full of new ideas, and now is the time to turn these ideas into concrete reality. Mercury in Taurus can give our communication and thinking a practical type of style and determination.

Taurus rules the 2^nd house in astrology or income and possessions. Venus is the ruler of the sign Taurus and Venus represents money, values, love and our social lives so our thoughts will turn to these matters as well. Taurus is a rich and sensual sign and we will be more interested in material possessions, land and perhaps the earth itself. Our interests could turn to investments, property, food, art and jewelry, beauty products, clothes and items that beautify our surroundings. As Venus is the ruler of Taurus she becomes the star of the show, and of course, Venus rules love. Expect to feel more expressive and expansive in your feelings and communication, and others will be the same. Now is the time to communicate with your partner and those you love and express the way you truly feel. This type of communication will come easier, and be much more natural during this time.

Taurus also rules the voice. Mercury in Taurus is a great time for those who are musically inclined and sing, do podcasts or anything involving the voice. Mercury in Taurus could indicate sales, trade, and profit as well.

The downside of Mercury/Taurus can have to do with a stubborn unwillingness toward creative change. As Taurus is a fixed sign, change comes slowly with Mercury in this sign, and once a decision is made it is often irrevocable.

May 20^th the Sun enters Gemini until June 20^th

May 20^th the Sun enters Gemini and the Gemini season is on! Gemini is the mutable sign of spring when the weather begins to change and shift toward summer. Like the weather, we too are under the influence of a mutable sign which means we are more changeable at this time than others. We may change our minds, and even direction during the next four weeks sometimes more than once.

 If the Taurus season is about being grounded and luxuriating in sensuality and connectedness with the earth, The Gemini season is more intellectual, loquacious, upbeat, free spirited and open to change. 

Gemini is an intellectual Air sign ruled by Mercury, the planet of communication, travel, young people and pets. The Gemini season will inspire social activity, conversation, new ideas and a focus of our energies outwardly and into the world.

Air signs are typically full of ideas and plans and while the Sun is in Gemini our energies will be directed much more toward others. Air signs are full of mental energy that can sometimes seem to move at the speed of light, activities and communication pick up and you may feel that ideas come so rapidly you can hardly remember everything. This will be especially true while Mercury retrogrades in Gemini.

Gemini is observant of the world and all surroundings. At times this sign can be considered ‘airheaded’ or duplicitous but much of the time this can be attributed to the fact that Gemini is changeable and always looking for the better solution and all sides of the problem. Gemini can often take a neutral approach to problems as they search for a logical as opposed to emotional answer. Never underestimate Gemini’s remarkable ability to see all sides of an equation.

Sometimes this energy can seem unpredictable and restless. You may find your time is split in many different directions and your curiosity piqued on different levels. Enjoy the natural curiosity and desire to interact with others during the Gemini season. Use this time to express all sides of yourself and enjoy things that are a little offbeat rest assured, it won’t be boring!

May 23^rd, Venus enters Gemini until June 17^th

When Venus enters Gemini love energies change once again and this will be completely different from Venus in Taurus as we have recently experienced. Venus will find herself in Mercury’s sign so communication and your social life will be prioritized at this time. Don’t be surprised if you don’t find yourself contemplating writing that novel you have always dreamed of, as Mercury rules all communication and the written word. Of course, the drive to communicate may take many different forms and you don’t have to write a novel to make the most of this placement.

Venus in Gemini is concerned with conversation, ideas, truths, and she does like to be bored in this sign. Venus in Gemini can be as sensual as any other sign, but you must bring conversation, adventure and fun to the picture to make this work. Manners count as does intelligence and ideas, most of all.

Venus in Gemini enjoys many different types of people and can flit from one group to another with little notice, and often expect their partner to be able to travel with them at the speed of light if necessary. Routine situations can be quite dull and boring, as are dogmatic, predictable people and routines.

Venus in Gemini is light and airy, and there is no greater turn off for those with Venus in this sign than people who are emotionally heavy and limiting, or jealous and possessive so check these feelings at the front door if you want this energy of this sign to work well for you.

Gemini is associated with the third house of the zodiac which rules communications, sales, writing ability, media, advertising, publicity, short journeys, neighbors, and siblings. The third house is also associated with the active search for knowledge, mental energy and telepathy.

Venus in Gemini is drawn to charismatic people who have interesting things to say and do. Gemini likes someone who can suggest interesting, if not adventuresome dates and places to go, and always has their own thoughts about what is going on.

Typically Venus-Gemini looks for friends first, and isn’t going to jump into an exclusive relationship overnight. Gemini is a mutable sign, so it's subject to changeability at the drop of a hat.

Venus in Gemini has a bad rap astrologically for being fickle. As Gemini is a changeable sign, she (or he) can change her mind if things aren’t working. The dark side of Venus in Gemini has the potential to leave lovers in the lurch suddenly, but is there any Venus that could be exempt from this if there is a good reason? Gemini can be more unpredictable than some, especially if things become too intense or dull. This could of course leave some people feeling duped, which again contributes to Venus's placement here being considered fickle. Venus in Gemini is actually looking for their ideal partner they can communicate and have fun with. Should they be lucky enough to find him or her, there is little chance they will leave.

May’s Full Moon on May 23^rd

This month’s Full moon falls at 2 degrees of Sagittarius. Sagittarius is ruled by Jupiter, the planet of gain and expansion. This Moon is conjunct Venus and Venus is conjunct Jupiter so this should overall be a positive and upbeat time unless it aspects something negatively in your personal chart.

Sagittarius rules the 9^th house of travel, education and world view. It also rules the courts and legal issues. Sagittarius is by nature an expansive sign so now is the time to stretch your mind, imagination and perhaps take a step toward your closely held hopes and dreams.

This Moon sextiles Neptune brings imagination, spirituality and creativity to the fore. This may be one of the most positive full moons of the year so make the most of it!

Overall, May looks like a far easier month than April.

Other aspects of significance:

May 1^st, Venus squares Pluto-This can bring up issues in relationships regarding sex or money. It can be obsessive in nature, and Pluto likes to delve beneath the surface. If you fall into this type of energy be prepared for a response from the other party as we are all under this transit.

Some could break up at this time, and we will hear scandalous news in all likelihood. Those (or skeletons) from the past may pop back up. This is overall negative and domestic issues may surface if you are in a situation prone toward this.

May 13^th, the Sun conjuncts Uranus-This can be an unpredictable day full of changes. On the other hand Uranus can be associated with brilliance and you could suddenly figure out a solution to a long standing problem, or have a great idea. Venus’s sextile to Saturn is positive and will give us some stability.

May 17^th, Mercury squares Pluto-This day is prone to over thinking, digging beneath the surface and trying to convince others of your viewpoint or vice versa. Basically, it is a transit of propaganda and arguments can erupt. Use extreme caution driving.

May 18^th, Venus conjuncts Uranus-This can be an exciting day and you can do something different or meet new people. While it is changeable, many will experience this day as exciting in some way, but it is not prone to things that last. The Sun also conjuncts Jupiter lending more positivity to the day.

May 30-31-Mercury conjuncts Uranus-This day is changeable and prone to many unexpected things that may happen. You may even find it difficult to keep up, and it will make some nervous. You could hear unexpected news and be careful on the road. As with any Uranus transit, you could come up with an unexpected idea or way to manage something. You may find your mood very changeable.

 

 

 

 

 

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

 

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

Mercury retrogrades

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

 The total solar eclipse in Aries April 8th

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Venus enters Aries

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

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

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

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

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

 

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

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

 

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

 Jupiter conjuncts Uranus

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

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

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

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

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

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

April 23’s Full Moon in Scorpio

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

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

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

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

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

The Sun enters Taurus April 19-May 20th

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Venus enters Taurus April 29^th-May 24th

 

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

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

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

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

April 30^th, Mars enters Aries

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Other aspects of significance

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

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

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

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

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

 

 

March 2024 astrology; Spring arrives and an eclipse!

 

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

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

Happy New Year and spring solstice

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Happy astrological New Year and Happy Birthday to Aries!

Mercury enters Aries

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

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

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

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

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

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

Venus enters Pisces

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

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

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

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

Mars enters Pisces

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

March’s New Moon in Pisces March 10th

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

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

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

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

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

The lunar eclipse in Libra

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Other aspects of significance:

Jupiter conjuncts Uranus

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

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

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

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

Mercury stations to retrograde

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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