MY MYSTICAL LIFE: LATHAM THOMAS

Doula, yogi and author, Latham Thomas is the go-to birthing guru for New York’s most magical mamas (and definitely one of the city’s sexiest vegans). Having discovered her calling after a shamanic astro reading on an ashram in the Bahamas (as you do), here she goes deep into the details of a mystical life…giving life.

WHAT’S YOUR MORNING AWAKENING RITUAL?
I wake up, give thanks, rising up to meditate briefly before waking my son and starting our day. Sometimes he joins me in my lap for a meditation.

WHAT’S YOUR FAVOURITE FEEL GOOD BREAKFAST?
My favorite breakfast is quinoa porridge in the winter and acai and granola in the summer months.

WHAT MATRA DO YOU LEAVE THE HOUSE WITH IN THE MORNING?
God is good all the time and always ordering my steps. Every encounter is blessed and I am learning every step of the way.

WHAT’S YOUR LUCKY CHARM?
My John of God crystal teardrop ring.

IN WHAT WAYS DO YOU MOST EMBODY THE TRAITS OF YOUR SIGN?
I’m a true Taurus – I am romantic, thoughtful, nurturing, and grounded. I am also stubborn – I don’t quit things.

WHAT OTHER ELEMENTS OF YOUR CHART DO YOU RELATE TO THE MOST?
My moon is in Sagitarius and I am very much aligned with the energy of the traveling horse. It balances the grounding energy of my sun sign.

WHO’S YOUR GO-TO GURU, AND WHY DOES THEIR WORK RESONATE WITH YOU?
God is my go-to! I don’t have a person who I go to most. I love Gabrielle Bernstein and Terri Cole, who are dear friends, and if I am in need of sister support I dial them up ASAP.

AND THE HEALER YOU HAVE ON SPEED-DIAL?
Maureen Dodd at the Ash Center, who is a true mystic and able to intuit what my body needs. I love her energetic facials.

IN WHAT WAYS DO YOUR MYSTICAL BELIEFS MOST INFORM YOUR WORK?
Spirit breathes into every aspect of my work, which is all about birth – and what’s more holy, precious, and divine than the miracle of birth?

AND HOW DO YOU DEAL WITH NEGATIVE THOUGHTS?
You know, that’s such a good question. I let them come up, then I call a friend to talk it out if I can’t seem to shake whatever arises.

RETAIL THERAPY IS…?
I’m not such a shopper – I get what I need and I am done. But I do love to shop for…teas!

WHAT’S YOUR POWER OUTFIT?
A stylish boot, leggings, a well-tailored blouse and a fierce hat. I love a good lid.

AND WHAT MAKES YOU FEEL BEAUTIFUL, WHY?
I think my energy, my essence, the touch I put into my work, and my passion are what make me beautiful. I’ve endured challenges and that has moulded my character along with my smile lines 🙂

YOUR LAST CONVERSATION WITH THE UNIVERSE WENT SOMETHING LIKE…?
Dear God, please give me the strength, the inspiration and the focus to write something that will help others on their self-healing journey. Please make me a vessel for your will.

AND WITH YOUR PSYCHIC GUIDE?
I have a Goddess I identify with who is called Oshun or Oxum, from the Yoruba tradition. I am not affiliated with the religion, but I really identify with the energy of this particular goddess. She is beautiful, lives in the sweet waters. She is vain, and courted by many Gods. She is benevolent, and a creatrix.

WHEN DID YOU LAST WITNESS MAGIC IN ACTION?
This morning – I woke up!

WHAT’S ON YOUR VISION BOARD RIGHT NOW?
Sooo much! I always put everything on, so that when I focus on a particular area I draw those experiences to myself. I’ve been in a mode right now of attracting people and experiences that so much so that I can’t discern whether it’s de ja vu, or whether I conjured the whole thing myself.

YOUR MISSION IN YOUR CURRENT EARTHLING INCARNATION IS…?
My mission is to help women reclaim their queendom and heir bodies and be empowered in the birth process. We need to nurture ourselves so we can be powerful forces in the world.

Find out more about Latham and her work at Mamaglow.com

@GlowMaven

MOMMY DEAREST: MOTHER’S DAY GIFTS BY SIGN

Stumped for how to honor your mamma this Mother’s Day? Ophira Edut, co-author with her sister Tali of Momstrology: The Astro Twins’ Guide to Parenting Your Little One by the Stars, has some ideas…

Aries mom: Diana Ross

The Aries Mom: Take her advice.
Supermom Aries wants nothing more than to hear these four words: “You were right, Mom.” So throw her a mother-knows-best bone. Aries rules the mind, and she wants her savvy smarts to be appreciated. Today, do things HER way. Take her out—to her favorite restaurant or a movie in her genre of choice…the one you’ve been resistant to try. You never know, she could be on to something after all.

Taurus mom: Audrey Hepburn

The Taurus Mom: Say it with flowers.
Nice ones from her favorite florist, please, arranged tastefully in a cool box (like these from Olive and Cocoa). Present them with a few impeccably wrapped high-end gifts: scarves, jewelry, nice accessories. Visual Taurus is ruled by aesthetic Venus, and this traditional mom loves beautiful presentation. This is one sign you can’t skimp on for Mother’s Day, so go designer—or at least, go decadent.

Gemini mom: Angelina Jolie

The Gemini Mom: Join in one of her hobbies.
Versatile Geminis have a million interests—books, music, films, trivia. Instead of tuning out, tune in. As the sign of the Twins, she loves to share information and discuss. Get two tickets for the show of her choosing, then analyze it over a fun meal afterward. Or, buy two copies of the same book you both want to read, and call her to discuss as you devour.

Cancer mom: Jerry Hall

The Cancer Mom: Book a family portrait session.
Say cheese! With the Cancer mom, you’re never too to pose for a professional shot of the family—the more generations involved, the better. To avoid being immortalized in a yuppie setup (everyone barefoot in jeans and matching white oxfords…you know the deal), arrange a sitting with a creative photographer. Or heck, you could even send a snapshot to an artist and commission a painting.

Leo mom: Madonna

The Leo Mom: Play dress-up with her.
Broadway, here we come! The Leo mama loves to hit the town with her lion cubs, so pull out the formalwear…and all the stops. Start with an early Mother’s Day brunch, then head to a Mama Mia matinee (or some other blockbuster musical). While you’re still humming “Dancing Queen,” finish with some disco fries and a giant hot fudge sundae at the diner—in your pearls or suit-and-tie—since she loves to do high and low in a single day.

Virgo mom: Beyonce

The Virgo Mom: Sit down for a real conversation.
The Virgo mom loves to talk—and not just idle chitchat either. She wants to know your hopes, dreams and opinions, and to share a few of her own. Book a day of undistracted quality time with her. Find a fancy hotel that serves high tea where you can hear her thoughts on life over petit fours and fragrant blends. Let her fuss over you a little—but grab the check before she tries to pay it, since the Virgo mom loves to give, but isn’t always comfortable receiving.

Libra mom: Kim Kardashian

The Libra Mom: Treat her to a day of beauty.
The lovely Libra mom savors all the pretty things in life. Treat her to all the traditional trappings: flowers, a spa trip, a special brunch, and all the Hallmark trimmings. Give her an occasion to get dressed up—and don’t forget the card! Sentimental Libra will treasure your Mother’s Day tributes forever. Tell her how much she means to you, and all the reasons why.

Scorpio mom: Goldie Hawn

The Scorpio Mom: Bond with one of your unique “me and mom” pastimes.
You know those favorite activities that you shared with your mom as a kid? Maybe it was taking a bike ride to your favorite little picnic spot, getting mani-pedis, or baking chocolate-chip banana bread and eating the whole loaf while it was still warm. Whatever it is: do that. As the sign of one-on-one bonding, the Scorpio mom cherishes those special things that only the two of you understand: inside jokes, little rituals, decadent splurges a deux. Remind her that she’s irreplaceable by re-enacting those beloved memories.

Sagittarius mom: Jane Birkin

The Sagittarius Mom: A day of adventure—with or without you.
The spontaneous Sagittarius mama is always multi-tasking, so take her away from her to-do list and off for a day of fun. Whether you head out into nature or go the “urban explorer” route, she’ll love getting away for an unstructured day of discovery. Hint: if she’s a newer mom, the independent Sag might appreciate having a few of those hours all to herself, where she can let her own inner compass guide her, and explore without having to answer to anyone but herself.

Capricorn mom: Kate Moss

The Capricorn Mom: Take over her duties.
The Capricorn mama works hard, so give her a day—or a week—off. Whatever task she toils over, take it out of her hands. Gardening, cleaning the house, walking the dog…maybe you do it for her, but even better, how about hiring a service to handle this chore for six months to a year? She may grumble for a minute, but when she comes home to crisp sheets or an impeccable yard, this dutiful mama might finally put her feet up and let herself enjoy some much-deserved rest.

Aquarius mom: Yoko Ono

The Aquarius Mom: Road trip!
Spontaneous and nomadic, the Aquarius mom loves the unexpected. Rent a car or pick her up, then go explore a town a couple hours away. Whether you collect shells on the beach then go to a quaint little crab shack, or drive into the big city, she’ll love being your co-adventurer on this Mother’s Day quest. Feel free to surprise her, too—Aquarius is the sign of the unexpected, so she’ll enjoy the thrill of anticipation.

Pisces mom: Cindy Crawford

The Pisces Mom: Gush a little, would you?
Stock up on the Kleenex and let the tearjerker moments begin! Raise a Bellini (or three) to your Pisces mom, and acknowledge all the sacrifices she’s made for you. Don’t hold back on the effusive praise because let’s face it, she’s been there for you like nobody else. It doesn’t take much to make this mushy mama misty-eyed. But go a little over the top anyway—the Pisces mom loves a glamorous setting!

Momstrology: The Astro Twins’ Guide to Parenting Your Little One By The Stars is out now. For lots more on parenting and astrology visit Momstrology.com

@AstroTwins

TAROTSCOPES: MAY 2014

MAY 2014: Cast by Louise Androlia using the Tarot of the Holy Light.

I can’t deny that I’m glad to send April 2014 happily on its way, how about you? It’s like the washing machine of life has been on a fast spin cycle and everyone has felt it. I hope many of you have made exciting leaps and bounds or navigated through your challenges, but if you feel that changes have been tough then I wrote a post with some ways that I keep on going when things seem uncertain – you can read it here.

Now the energy from the Cardinal Grand Cross is calming; hopefully we will all feel its grip loosen! Mars is still retrograde so nothing is about to happen at warp speed right away, giving us a nice chance to rebalance and take stock.

So begin this month with fresh eyes – no re-writing the past or dragging your dirty laundry to the party. This month’s tarotscopes show that new cycle and a new adventure is beginning, so open your arms to the unknown and trust in your journey. It loves you!

Questions? Come and chat with me about how your month is going @louniverse

 

Taurus / Taurus Rising – King of Cups
There is the need for a softening to come over you. Perhaps you’ve been being too hard on yourself recently, or struggling to gain control over something that you so desperately need to understand. But there comes a point when we need to let things wash through us so that we can recalibrate and feel our way back to a balance. It’s hard to feel better by just standing still and flapping our arms around.

Following on the advice from last month keep making self-care as a priority; you don’t always do that, do you? It can seem strange to think about putting your wellbeing ahead of something seemingly more important like work or helping others, but remember that you can’t build anything if you are in pieces.

You are seeking balance and that comes in all shapes and sizes for each of us. To start with you need to be in tune with when you are out of your natural state of equilibrium. Your mind-body-spirit should ideally all be aligned with each other, working like a perfect trio – your superpowers. If you feel like you have reached a standstill with your mind, with negative thoughts creeping in and out and old fears coming in – it’s okay. The regurgitating of old fears seems to be coming in swift and fast for many of us – but you in this moment are a different you, with the ability to meander into that headspace, wave hello to the anxiety and remind yourself that you can walk beyond it.

Aid an abundance of air (thoughts) energy by ushering in some creativity and passion – take a dance in the fire aisle and awaken your inner source of fun. Laughter might take you out of your worries, if but for a moment. Then – listen to your intuition, always. Never stop trying to hear and trust that loving voice.

Feelings – are you blocking them out or are they overwhelming? Perhaps the two go hand in hand. Even if you’re comfortable in the dependable and stoic mode, it’s good to crack open as and when you need. Let your moods wash over and under and get it out in the medium that suits you. Talk more, share often – ask for help if you need it. Writing, painting and inventing your own forms of therapy are going to work for you.

I feel that this month you can usher in a new sense of balance that works for you like never before. It’s exciting to me, to think that we are carving and curating our way to a form that stands us in our strongest empowered self. What you will find is that if you can register when you are balanced and embodied you will be able to make the best calls, judgments, decisions and moves – and that the main thing is to trust yourself to be present – now.

Questions? Come and chat with me about how your month is going @louniverse

 

Gemini / Gemini Rising – The Four of Wands
This card only came up for you a couple of months ago and it’s a nice repeat – a continuing reminder of all that can be celebrated in your life. I want to approach the idea of how to find happiness in the face of uncertainty, change and fears. It may not be change that has affected you directly, perhaps you’ve been feeling well but have observed vast and chaotic changes around you? And are now wondering how can you possibly allow yourself to feel joy at this time, when others are at a loss?

It starts with valuing and nurturing your journey and your feelings as they flow in. If something feels unstable, whether it’s the ground you’re standing on or the space around you, it’s at this point that you dive in headfirst with compassion and kindness. It can be hard to have faith in anything sometimes, but you can always have faith in your story, and your own sense of moving onward.

There is one thread that can always be stable and be your guiding light, and it’s your ability to self-love and self care – two things that often get chucked out the window at points when we need them the most. If you need help or need to help others then start with number one, aka YOU. I will never stop returning to this point, of nurturing your mind, body and spirit (all.of.the.time.)

How do you begin weaving back this in? Get attuned to the everyday things. If you ask many people where they find joy it’s often in nature and the living world. I believe this to be true because it’s our fastest track to the present moment. Try practicing a walking meditation. Go outside purposefully or even next time you are walking from meeting to meeting, keep your phone in your pocket and observe. Look up and look down to the ground, feel the world you are standing on. What do you see? Examine leaves and branches, flowers and earth. Look at the people around you and connect to each one by noticing something about them. Notice how your body feels in response to what you are looking at.

By tuning in to your surroundings whilst moving you get gifted a very easy route to being embodied – and even better, it’s free and available any time. Whenever you feel stuck or blocked, grab your keys and just walk out side for a moment. It’s within this type of movement that you can create stillness.

This month joy surrounds you and there is much to celebrate – those things may be very obvious but you might also have to remind yourself of the tiny wonders. Rejoice in what you have and it will be enough.

Questions? Come and chat with me about how your month is going @louniverse

 

Cancer / Cancer Rising – Four of Swords
You are again required to surrender to the moment this month. Perhaps you’ve been one of the ones feeling your way through change and chaos this last month, and are eager to see ahead to a place where things are a bit more predictable. You are after all at home when you know where you are and where you are going. However, your ability to evolve comes within a continuing practice of stillness. You will know where your rest needs to come in – perhaps it’s your body that needs you to stop punishing it or your mind that requires a break from anxious thoughts.

It may be that everyone around you has needed you so much that you actually need to close the door for a while. Everything is as it should be. Tune into your inner dialogue – are there a lot of “I should’s” happening? This is a surefire sign that you’ve jumped out of your energy sphere and are feeling overcome by the need to do things rather than a desire.

As a water sign, your element is the master of intuition and feelings, so I always say that if you aren’t working with them then you’re hiding from your super powers. Don’t be afraid of meditating in a way that works for you, don’t run from the idea of stillness because you’re afraid of what you might discover. It’s amazing how much less stressful your fears can be when you stop for a moment to introduce yourself to them, and then laugh at their small and restrictive ideas.

I like to think of you resting with intent this month, you aren’t giving up, but you are giving over. Spread out your worries on a platter and hand them over. To where? I like to hand mine over to the Universe, or to an energy I deem to be outside me and within me, but this is your story – perhaps you just give them to your adventure and allow the words to be written into your story inside of clutching and scratching at the sides of your mind.

There is a sun rising in the distance, for you, with a whole new world of opportunities. Life is full of infinite possibilities that are hidden within tiny moments, waiting for you to crack them open. This blooming land isn’t going anywhere, it’s just waiting for you to be ready, for you to step up and accept things in a different way. You will be okay if you edge away from the familiar worn down territory. It’s amazing how easy it is to be afraid of the good things; what if they get taken away? What if…your power is in this exact moment, for you to admire, love and work with. You’re all good.

Questions? Come and chat with me about how your month is going @louniverse

 

Leo / Leo Rising – The Moon
You will find that the push and pull of your own mind is a continuing lesson, but the lessons wouldn’t be there if they weren’t an essential part of your story. You didn’t get served up as the king of the jungle for no reason you know! But it’s up to you how you play out the tale.

Following on from last month, the battle with the fear hoarding part of your mind might stay in full swing but you have the opportunity to tone it down now and move slower, after all you’ve got to grips with your own courage and super powers a bit more now, right? So how about having some fun in those shadows? I always think of the Sun as the front of the stage and the Moon as behind the scenes. It’s behind the curtain where all the work gets done and within your own theatre you can learn how the magic is made. You can of course also see the mistakes and the hiccups, but wouldn’t you rather look for the wonder? I’m just reminding you of how you get to choose the way you take in information and how you approach the tests and trials. I told you to avoid drama, so this month, admire wonder.

If you are in a time of high stress, it’s okay. It’s okay! You aren’t supposed to feel super chill and on cloud nine all the time, or expect to. It’s not how it is – it’s your job to get real and welcome in the entire spectrum of feelings and love them all, the weird and the wonderful.

Meanwhile be trusting of yourself but not suspicious of everyone else. When working with the shadows in our daily life it can be easy to assume the worst. The answer isn’t to assume the best, but instead to trust in your own decisions and movements. You don’t need to accuse anyone of having bad vibes but instead up your own good ones. If something around you feels a bit fishy, then go inwards and work it out for yourself. If somehow that YES isn’t coming out then trust that maybe the yes is a positive NO! You don’t have to sign yourself up for things that don’t feel right – yep feel.

The answer is in how your body reacts to everything, job offers, people, and places – if you tune in then it’s amazing how that powerful knowing inside you lurches to the surface and let’s you know what is going on. You might also feel like actually working with the Moon itself this month – the powerful Scorpio full moon on the 14th could be a great time to meditate on letting go of the old, filling up with gratitude for all that you have and setting your intention to connect in a new way to your inner soul system.

Questions? Come and chat with me about how your month is going @louniverse

 

Virgo / Virgo Rising – The King of Swords
Time to stand up and into your own truth Virgo. This feels like a powerhouse month to me where you can really get s*** done! Woohoo, right? RIGHT. So how are you going to go about it? That truth I mentioned, well that’s just you standing fully in your own power and owning it. Sounds so great doesn’t it, but how often do we really do that? When you are fully connected to your mind, body and spirit you have everything you need to go about and get things done. So you can work on that connection by nurturing and empowering each part of yourself.

First up, the mind. The mastering of the air element can be tricky and you know exactly where you struggle and thrive. Did you know that you have the gift of being able to quickly serve yourself up a wonderful dose of clear and perfect clarity whenever you want? Yes, you just have to go there, and going there means dismissing the age-old obsessions and fears and embracing the shifts of change, and then you have it. Do this via journaling, meditating, desire mapping and nurturing your headspace. You always need to stretch your intellect so that it defeats any possibility of feeling boredom (a symptom of a mind that is craving expansion) – so dive in to new books, movies and documentaries to open your mind and feed those power cells.

Next, the body. This is about allowing your insides to thrive. Sometimes (ok, often) you can end up running on empty, trying to fill gaps and check off lists. Time to beat yourself at your own game by prepping for a busy month and making the necessary preventative moves NOW! So stocks up on your vitamins, make meal plans, create fun Pilates playlist and you’re all set. If you can avoid getting burned out then you have the golden ticket. What regime suits you and do you feel good on? Trust that your body will speak, just make time to listen.

Finally: Your spirit and your energetic self. Practice stillness as often as possible and mindfulness during whatever you are up to. Don’t have time? Don’t try that excuse with me, there’s always time to care for your inner guide, always. Often one breath is all it takes. Do you have time to inhale and exhale? Sure you do.

The thing that you don’t have time for in May is self-sabotage, so just keep moving, one step at a time. Face external stresses from others with the same holistic connection, breathe through it, don’t throw fireballs and treat any flashes of chaos with a double or triple scoop of self-love. You need to be on good form for all the adventures you’re going to be having, so saddle up and go and rule your kingdom!

Questions? Come and chat with me about how your month is going @louniverse

 

Libra / Libra Rising – The Ace of Pentacles
This month heralds the start of a new cycle in your life, which is something in itself to celebrate. The start of a new cycle doesn’t always come with a cheer though does it? If life is spun into a series of chapters, some longer than others, then there are often times when we don’t want to part ways with the words we’ve just read, and that’s okay. The wheels of change have been on overdrive over the last month and many of you may really feel those pages having been turned. Now it’s important to be still and allow the feelings you have to flow and settle. Every feeling is valid and it’s okay to not feel okay.

The gift you have here is to be able to accept the new cycle, and move forward even if something seems to be tugging you back. I feel that you might have been given a new sense of intuition, an all seeing eye that you hadn’t quite been aware of before. Now is the time to open it up and settle into a new energetic connection. Don’t be put off by what you might deem as too ‘new agey’ or you’ll miss the message – which is love and compassion. Allow yourself a healthy dose of nurturing over the next few weeks, as super fuel for the rest of the year.

Career wise you have opportunities knocking on your door, if you are keeping your eyes open to see them of course. Your Midas touch comes within realizing that you can say YES and NO as you choose. No need to accept every offer on the table – make your choices from what feels right for you, not what you think you should do. This extends beyond business too; make yourself prioritize that inner feeling. It might be that you are wondering who to spend your time with right now, so reach out to those who feel right – maybe they are your nearest and dearest, or maybe they’re just people you have a good feeling about for this moment. Be expansive and ready to grow, even if that seems scary – there are people around who want to boost you and help you out right now. I feel that you need a push of positivity or some meaning to the chaos, and it’s there for you.

Find your excitement and confidence in the moment; this is a beginning, so start small by thinking big. Your power lies in taking one step and just doing one thing, because you are paving and creating. If you jump too far ahead that’s where the anxiety sites lie, so instead just take a leap of faith in trusting the moment. The future contains bright skies and warm clouds, rainbows and shooting stars. Wrap up in a golden cloak and open the door.

Questions? Come and chat with me about how your month is going @louniverse

 

Scorpio / Scorpio – The Page of Pentacles
Last month I was reminding you to check in on your faith in your journey and look for those little winks from the Universe. As May arrives you’re feeling intent on getting results from the material world and marching your dreams into reality. The frame of mind you need to get things going is formed again by faith and trust. Know that whatever is right for your adventure will be in play, and know that it isn’t always the plan you expected – often it’s way more interesting. Either way you are a tour de force right now, so make your posture strong and tall – there is work to be done.

Now I’m not suggesting that you’re about to suddenly be crazy busy and stressed – Mars is still retrograde so you’re probably not heading to the madhouse, it’s more your Intent that feels, well, intense! I feel that no one can stand in the way of you going out there and blazing your trail – the question is, are you ready? You had this card back in October last year so there might be a link to projects you were thinking of back then – perhaps reconnecting to or launching a new idea?

There is an air of education coming in so you might be prepping to start learning something new yourself or designing some sort of structure to share with others, it’s the right time to be expanding your knowledge to others – in whatever form feels right for you. The main thing is that the students and teachers and awaiting you. Try not to be overcome with the planning and stay as best you can in the present moment. The earth energy will suit you best this month, slow and stead and very importantly – GROUNDED. If you throw yourself too far ahead then it will be easy to get anxious. I keep a vision of just being reeled back into the moment I’m in and I’d like you to work with that. Whenever you find yourself hopping away from what you are working on or doing just say “reel it in” to snap yourself back to right NOW.

With a roar and a flutter you are on your way and it’s a fantastic month to be creating or re-creating your own manifesting practice. Say thank you for the things you desire and treat them as if they are already yours – then let the Universe catch up. On that note, up your gratitude practice. Hey you don’t even need to make a list, why not potter around your apartment speaking out those thanks as you go about your day.

The last month was quite a tough one and you may have been on high alert helping other people manage their energy – make sure to check in and clean yours up now. When you’re feeling truly aligned, those opportunities will come rushing in. Whoop!

Questions? Come and chat with me about how your month is going @louniverse

 

Sagittarius / Sagittarius Rising – Page of Cups
Back to the water fountain for your Sagittarius! Last month came with a few (or a lot) of aches and pains and I want you to dive fully into managing your own flow of feelings. As a natural warrior you aren’t always one to let your guard down and be vulnerable but maybe it’s time to share it out a little? You will find comfort from any of your fears this month by opening that mouth and talking it out with a good friend, or a therapist if that feels right for you.

This is a month of rejoicing in the small wonders of life and this is exactly what you need to connect back to the present, I’m sure it will be a welcome gift. I feel that you are poised for a new journey – the last couple of months you were cracking open and piecing back together, maybe more times than you expected, and so it makes sense to start out on new footing, right? So how do you go about that? With a fresh set of eyes of course!

In the places where you feel jaded or afraid, fill up the gaps with gratitude and love. The month is housing a sincere dose of magic and miracles for you, so you may as well get attuned with what that might mean for you. Those moments of awe and wonder? They are closer than you think. We often search high and low for a bigger meaning to something, and often the lesson is just to be still and say thank you for what you see in front of you, after all that is the only thing that’s real, and precious.

Your relationship with your intuition is changing. Whether you’re just introducing yourself or you’re a hard practiced psychic, this is evolving into something more charged and clear. Your job is to welcome in your own wisdom and trust it, even if it feels a little odd at first, and to give the more loving voice a shot, especially in the face of the fears that shout out from your inner dialogue.

The energy around you is also very playful and childlike; if you are a mother then you might find those magical messages coming from your children. This is also a time to connect to your childlike self; sometimes I find the best advice comes from thinking what I might have done when I was age four! Everything about childhood is being powerful in the present, less “what ifs” and more just doing what feels right. What feels right to you?

Trust in yourself this month then you will have all the super powers that you need – it’s a nice thought, isn’t it? P.s If you need to clear your head, soothe yourself by the nearest body of water. A lake, river or even your bathtub will be your sanctuary this month.

Questions? Come and chat with me about how your month is going @louniverse

 

Capricorn / Capricorn Rising – The Five of Cups
As you continue on this new journey of discovery and change it’s good to get accustomed to things coming and going – and how you perceive that. It’s not uncommon for you to get clutched by the idea of failure and swoop in to lessen yourself against others, but it’s time for that old trick to be put to bed. Remember all the talk of seeing your life as a journey? If you’re on an adventure then every single moment is exactly as it should be, it’s your book after all. I like to think in gardening terms here. If you plant a selection of seeds and they all flower apart from a few does that make your garden a failure? No, no it’s not – it’s still in bloom and so are you!

Crying over split milk and trying to rewrite the past or our mistakes is really a move that we want to avoid. “If I had only done this instead, then that would be different”. Maybe it would but we can’t unpick and re-stitch our story, as much as we want to, and time spent wishing is time that could be celebrating what we have or pausing to heal in the moment. Healing is essential to our journey, so even if you are feeling disappointment, sadness or loss right now, it’s not something that’s “your fault”. It’s your moment to allow your feelings to be valid and bring in compassion and forgiveness for yourself and others.

Remove the word failure from your dictionary. I’ve been thinking a lot about success recently and realize that like happiness it’s one of those things we’ll never find if we chase it, climb after it and scrabble for it. My friend Gabby Bernstein says that she bases her success on how much fun she’s having. Isn’t that an amazing way to rethink? Because if you’re having a good time you’re full up with joy, right? Try it.

Finally I want to make sure you aren’t giving too much of yourself away and neglecting (again) your self-care. This is a lesson you might see time and time again because of your ability to be everything for everyone and such a good caregiver and friend. Sometimes, when you spend a lot of energy helping others and don’t balance it out for yourself then you can suddenly feel apathetic towards others.

The last thing we ever want is to feel annoyed about being of service, so see where your balance lies. Take that Earth energy that you pass away and give some back to yourself, more of that embodiment that I mentioned last month. The Sun sets every day, but it always gets up. You have a lot to get up for – so embrace today.

Questions? Come and chat with me about how your month is going @louniverse

 

Aquarius / Aquarius Rising – The Two of Wands
One of my all time favorite cards for you this month sweet water carrier. Things are still on the up, or at least the potential is right there for you if you seek it. There is a sense of duality, in perhaps a few areas of your life. Many of you have stepped into a new partnership, romantic and career wise – how is it going?

I want you to feel comfortable in your new adventures, even if they seem shiny and strange and unrecognizable. It’s important that you remember unfamiliar is very often, well – awesome! At least it’s a far cry from old, done over habits. If April was a bit of a chaos bringer then May reminds you of your ability to dust yourself off and keep on going, you are kind of a master of that you know. The world is your oyster – ahh what a sweet sigh of relief that reminder brings, doesn’t it? That you can shape the energy and view around you? This even speaks for the times when things seem at a loss and pretty down and out. The sun will rise again, after all it always does, and this is a strong message for us all this month.

You are feeling fiercely independent, and that’s not a bad thing. So what is the plan? You have an idea that’s on its way up and this is a great time to just finalize your trust in yourself before you get it out there. This is all about how you get your idea into reality – your problem is never the ideas themselves. So think about whom you might need to approach, send out those emails or call up those friends – there are avenues of help awaiting you, but you might need to go a-knocking.

Don’t worry about anyone butting in on your dreams though – you can welcome in advice and still make your final decisions. Trust is a big one here, in yourself – so remember your journey and have faith in that, if you’d rather not say hello to the Universe. But if you fancy it then say thanks for what you are working on and know that you are supported.

I have no doubt in your ability to plan so really these few weeks are just about the ground work and putting in a lot of positive fire energy. You feel pretty strong to me, even if you deem yourself as walking shakily, so charge yourself up with a lot of self care giving – plenty of sleep and ease off the sugar and processed foods. Energy givers not sappers are your body tools. Laugh at your fears and keep nurturing your intuition. Things are blooming – so keep tending to those dreams.

Questions? Come and chat with me about how your month is going @louniverse

 

Pisces / Pisces Rising – The Hanged Man
Surrender! You know it, my favorite thing to teach. Letting go can sound like we’re spinning out of control so I’ve reclaimed it with a sweet “surrender” – so much easier to grasp, isn’t it? Okay no it’s still a tough practice and I know how you love to get obsessive about things and keep looking over that shoulder to try and rewrite the past. So how about what’s ahead? It’s a fine and beautiful place, waiting, just over there – see it?

Anyway no need to go there right now because May is a month of suspension, not the scary kind though, just the wait and see kind. Are you frustrated even thinking about that? Well it’s time to get comfortable with your stillness – again.You know I always bang on about your intuition being your super power? Last month I encouraged you to charge up and avoid dramatics and following on from that is about keeping yourself in that moment and resisting the urge to run back to old and tired habits. Right? Yes! Keep listening to the more loving voice in your inner dialogue, you’ll get there.

I love this card because it really teaches you to admire your surroundings. You are exactly where you’re supposed to be. This letting go may be required for the projects that you’ve been investing in recently, or the relationships – wherever your desire has been planted. It’s time to hand it over. The reason we “give it up” is to allow things to expand, as they should. If you pop a jar over a butterfly it’s never going to go anywhere, so you don’t have to hover over your wishes to try and forced them into action. So just step back, even a little, in order to get a better vision. In fact the more you loosen your grip, the easier it will be to see peace and sense within your story.

I’m very familiar with this card and I often find it also appears to let you know that you can’t know the outcome because it doesn’t exist yet. So aggravating, I know, but I like this because it reminds us that the present is the only real reality and the best place to work from. If you only had to deal with today wouldn’t things be less stressful? Try and reel yourself back in to the moment you’re in whenever you waft off in all directions, your body with be thankful, as will your mind and energy.

Meanwhile, in this continued wait, use it as a chance to prep for a new perspective and cycle. Need to clear out anything from the past few months? Use the Scorpio full moon on the 14th as a chance to welcome in a new personal cycle. Perhaps also connect with your Scorpio pals for an intuitive power pull – they get you, always. (And p.s…Surrender!)

Questions? Come and chat with me about how your month is going @louniverse

 

Aries / Aries Rising – The Seven of Pentacles
Like your Pisces pal this is a month of surrender. Yes that old trick. Are you tired of me telling you to slow down and create more space yet? I’m so sorry, but it’s all in the name of love and rebalancing so you are in your full power. Anyway this is surrendering with a purpose. You’ve been busy (as usual) changing the world and planning for the months ahead, and now you might have to wait a bit for things to bloom and burst. That’s okay though, right?

Because you know this system now, and if you’ve planned for something to happen soon you don’t need to babysit it. Get moving with something new, like maybe go and enjoy yourself, ideally partaking in something that doesn’t swoop in with a bunch of stress.

Your work is never in vain and you know it, because you don’t usually go for something unless you have a gut instinct that it’s a good idea. Even those leaps of faith have some action planning behind them. So this month take some time to be grateful for your journey so far – for all those adventures you’ve had because of the work you’ve put in. It will be a good reminder and confidence boost for your ability to keep moving on in the direction that you seek. If you feel very aware that you are “waiting” for something then this card is usually a reflection of the effort you’ve put in. So romantically – check in that the balance is equal. Are you expecting more but not giving your share? Or are you expecting someone else to open up and be vulnerable whilst you’re still hiding behind closed doors? It takes two to tango they say.

If you’ve been wondering if you are on the right path with an idea, relationship or a project then try tuning back into your original intention. Did you start something out with excitement and desire or was it a lack luster, “I should do this” kind of a deal? If something you didn’t really care much about doesn’t come to fruition then it will be no loss! Trust that what comes around is gonna be exactly what you needed, even if you didn’t know you did.

So, what else can you do over the next few weeks? Take stock of course! Maybe that’s going through your accounts or checking in with your health, you will know exactly where your balance isn’t aligned. Always make the goal to be that you feel embodied and empowered and you will never be walking on the wrong tracks. I also have faith in your ability to juggle, so don’t fear that you can’t do everything, only worry about whether you want to do everything. See the difference?

Questions? Come and chat with me about how your month is going @louniverse

TAROTSCOPES: APRIL 2014

APRIL 2014: INTRO

If you’re interested in these tarotscopes, chances are you’ve probably already clocked that astrologers have been speaking about the coming month for a long time. The Cardinal Grand Cross peaks around April 23rd, and the weeks leading up promise to be a pretty intense period to say the least. Imagine four people in a room, all with wildly different ideas and all trying to shape the world in their image.

When the Grand Cross forms the four planets involved will also all be at 13 degrees, and in the Tarot this is the number of the Death card, representing the sign of Scorpio. So think – change, transformation and reinvention. This energy has been building since December, and I for one have certainly been feeling it, have you?

You should know by now that I’m not one to embrace fear. I like the idea that if we try always to live in our highest and best energy, then we will always be exactly where we should be no matter what’s going on around us. I believe our struggles are in place to lead us to higher ground, and all we need to do is just keep walking. Life isn’t always going to be sparkles and unicorns, and if you are feeling less than 100% remember that we’re all in this together.

Through my coaching practice, I’ve come to discover that we all have the same fears packaged up in unique ways and yet we all feel totally alone some of the time. So share, love and support each other, or as I like to do when I’m feeling the winds of change – open up your arms wide and shout I’M READY!

P.S. If you know your full birth chart, this month read your sun and your rising sign tarotscopes for a double dose of guidance.

Cast by Louise Androlia using the Rider Waite Tarot Deck

ARIES / ARIES RISING – THE KNIGHT OF CUPS
Happy Birthday babe! It doesn’t surprise me to see an action card in place for you this month, because it’s not exactly news that you rarely stand still and just soak up the view. However this is definitely a time to really embrace some of the natural cycles of life, rather than try forcing the forward motion yourself. Get in tune with the flow and synchronicities of your life right now, make notes of how one thing leads to another, and you might just weave a web of action that gets you to the same desired outcome but with a few less puffs and pants.

Emotionally, you are perhaps going to be a bit more in touch with your watery side over the next few weeks, so if the tears start flowing, embrace them and think of yourself as having a birthday soul cleanse. It’s easy to get annoyed when your deepest feelings decide they want to make an appearance, but this is so a chance to dive in and swim around until you reach a deeper sense of personal embodiment. Think of yourself as having arrived at a blank page about to write the intro to your next awesome story, it needs some sentiment.

Externally I get a sense of commitment issues with this card and so I feel that if plans you are keen to see come to fruition get slowed right down it could be purely because you’re finding it hard to pin a certain someone down to the job. It’s amazing how frustrating it can be to feel like your fire-starting ideas are on hold because you’re having to simply wait it out. However every period of waiting can often just mean the space is being energetically held for you. Whenever that contract finally gets signed, then the time will be exactly right. It’s a more peaceful way to look at a limbo situation, right?

So try and embrace a sense of flow within action, after all if we know one thing for sure it’s that worry and anxiety only serve to thieve us of our peace, so don’t even invite those guys to your party!

In partnerships and romantically this is your chance to loosen your grip on any “all talk and no action” kind of connections. If you feel like you are constantly being emotionally let down, or sucked in by that knight in shining armor then it’s time to draw a line. You don’t need to suffer, even if you are locked in that familiar negative comfort zone. What would your biggest hero do right now? Well guess what, YOU are the hero, so bring in the change yourself and sweep out anything that isn’t working for you. Shake it off and treat yourself to a soul system spring clean – out with the old and in with the new. Keep walking, head high, heart open.

Questions? Come and chat with me about how your month is going @louniverse

TAURUS / TAURUS RISING – THE STAR
Take a trip back to this time last year. What was going on in your life? How were you feeling? I pulled this card for you last April, and I feel like you could be immersed in something that was just an idea all those months ago and that you can see how the cycle has passed through all its twists and turns to bring you to this stage. I spoke last month about embracing change and shaking up your foundations to work better for you, and this card follows on SO well from that, bringing in a totally butterfly energy for you. Transformation is such an awesome and empowering thing, it’s a wonder we can be so terrified of the unknown right?

This month I encourage you to celebrate and value your talents, your mind, your body and your spirit. How often do you just stop and pat yourself on the back? Or even look back and notice how things are clicking together. I know you can sometimes feel that you’re tumbling down a dark tube towards a goal, and so I want you to keep expanding your vision in order not to miss any opportunities that are headed your way. I have a sense that you need pushing into your own light and so I want to give you just a little nudge and say go and stand in that spotlight – or at least empower you enough to send an email to get the ball rolling. It’s time to embrace life in a way that works for you, yes you and only you.

Your conversation with the Universe, God, your inner self, Love or whatever energy you might feel connected to also needs a little revamp, and acting on behalf of the Universe, I’m telling you to remember to check back in with your mantras, prayers or gratitude practices. Why? Because those moments of nurture that you give yourself will reflect back on you and the world will feel like a brighter place. You will be able to see clearer and feel more solid, and that light of yours will be just that little bit more luminous.

Also, give yourself a break. Seriously. If there has been a lot of change in your sphere recently then you aren’t supposed to be feeling super stable and strong right now, and this is why it’s even more important to take a break and just be present in your own skin. This will recharge you and give you the energy boost you need in order to be able to withstand any shakeups to your foundations.

Anyway, this month is about Star powered energy, so wrap your arms around everything and everyone that you love. Fly, launch, shine, dream. Share your ideas, gifts, thoughts, talents, words, energy – get it out there in whichever form you feel like you thrive in. We need you!

Questions? Come and chat with me about how your month is going @louniverse

GEMINI / GEMINI RISING – THE KNIGHT OF WANDS
A nice change of pace from last month, which felt a little riddled with “what ifs”, “buts” and moments of worry. I hope you have been recharging and getting more on board with some self-love? Well keep it up as a permanent practice, okay?

This month I am giving you a rather large dose of passion and movement, and a big old jab out of your comfort zone. It’s so easy to get locked into a habit, like watching TV for instance, at the expense of other creative hobbies, and granted all those shows are pretty awesome and sofa time is fully supported. But at the same time, know that there is a higher energy for you to be tapping in to. I love thinking elementally, and what you want to bring in over the next few weeks is a lick of Fire. To immerse yourself in something that pumps up your life force, and reminds you that inspiration is always around you, if you just reach out and grab it.

I have a feeling that a few shifts are coming in your direction that might shove you towards a more action oriented place, and so be ready to embrace them. If you’ve been putting energy into the manifestation process recently then some results may start to roll in (hurrah!) Remember that you don’t have to say “yes” to everything, so step back and think about what might be right for you. Not sure? Ask what FEELS right. Avoid making decisions based on what you “think” you should do and allow passion to rule the show. I dare you to give it a shot! Also remember to allow everything in your life it’s own sense of flow. Know that whatever blooms has it’s rightful place, as you don’t want to even think about wasting your energy crying over spilt milk or stamping your feet if you feel like you haven’t got “your way”.

You may also be experiencing a major case of itchy feet, a desire to travel or meet some new faces. No need to race off to the airport right this second, but planning an adventure for later in the year could certainly bring you in the right kind of expansive energy. Same goes for the people you hang out with, are you clinking glasses and locking lips with those who lift you up and support your A-game? If not then your ability to make a shift in your social circle is something to be aware of. While you don’t need to go ditching pals left right and center, it’s very important to make sure that you feel part of a community that supports you.

A final nugget to ponder – always take a moment to check in which direction you are walking. Are you charging towards your dreams and in the direction of Love, or tiptoeing backwards into old habits and denying yourself the blooming and bright experience that you deserve?

Questions? Come and chat with me about how your month is going @louniverse

CANCER / CANCER RISING – THE SIX OF SWORDS
You’re on such a journey this year Cancer, as if you’re on a sailboat through the seas of change and the weather is a bit unpredictable. Sometimes it rains for days but then it’s bright and blooming! You have faith that there is a point to all this, right? Hold onto this truth, as it’s always what can comfort you when the winds rattle your bones.

So last month I was chatting to you about drama and theatrics and I’m sure you saw some of that in play. Was it around you externally or going on in your own mind? The next few weeks are a chance to really retreat from your own fears (and everyone else’s) and with a battery pack in tow just give yourself a break. It sounds simple and it kind of is, but I know it’s not always enough stop you panicking about when things are going to move forward or when the next job will come in.

Your goal now is to get embodied and empowered, and this means that you have to get clear on what you want the rest of the year and maybe even your life to look like. It’s so easy to just role with it, to feel a bit like life has got you in it’s clutches and you’re just waiting on other people to make decisions so that you can move forward. Granted, plenty of things do involve other people and their decisions but it doesn’t mean that you can’t be a part of it. Take some time this month to really go deep and connect to what might be right for you, not just as another a notch on your ladder or because it’s what you think you should do.

I just feel like laying low will suit you right now – ideally in a hammock, swaying your way through the day as you hone back into your zen zone. But um yeah, the real world…the real world requires subtle action and constant surrender. So keep moving but just in your own space. Be a little selfish, in the positive way, which means taking some time outs to work through annoyances. Sort through your internal life luggage and prepare a few old habits and ideas for the recycling bin, to exchange for a fresh approach.

You won’t get very far unless you start getting unapologetic about putting your own wellness and joy right at the very top of the list, shining bright. Dive into the little things that lift you up – the smile on your child’s face, the in-jokes with your BFF, the words on a page that always make you smile, the quirks of your pet. Mini moments of joy are what will propel you forwards so that instead of feeling lost at sea, you become the captain of the ship.

Questions? Come and chat with me about how your month is going @louniverse

LEO / LEO RISING – STRENGTH
This month is all about getting embodied and embracing the truth. The truth? It’s easy to be afraid of that word and want to run from it, scared of what it might mean – but it’s nothing to be afraid of. I want you to honor what feels right for you in every area of your life, and look at what might need shifting. It’s clear this is a month of spring-cleaning for everyone and as Leo is the sign that matches up to the Strength card, I feel that this is about you returning to your own source and getting really real.

So then, how are you going to dive in? I feel that for a start it’s worth checking in with your ego mind and its “ifs” and “buts” – have you accidentally on purpose been listening a little too much to those “I cant’s” recently? It’s easy to slip into the comforts of some of our favorite fears. I feel that the drama queen in your internal and external environment is a little on high alert right now. Have you noticed a lot of people in your sphere all caught up in idle gossip or low vibe conversation? If so then it’s imperative that you don’t join them, but at the same time it isn’t your job to call people out on their stuff, and definitely don’t lower your vibe to passive aggressive tweeting – such a waste of your time. Be the bright light and allow everyone to move on their own journey at their own speed.

Internally, don’t give the attention to the theatrics of the ego mind either. While the stage of your subconscious might look very exciting and inviting, is it all smoke and mirrors? How about giving peace a chance instead?

The thing is, inner work like this doesn’t have to be catastrophically boring, and it’s not like you have to wave your arms around and claim that you’re going to overhaul your known Universe either. It’s the small shifts we make that often bring about the biggest and brightest changes. Just say a few extra “yes’s” or maybe even a few more “no’s”, and take a moment to consider the direction you’re walking in, as you stop often to pause and breathe.

Remember that joy I asked you to look out for last month? Keep up this practice and know that gratitude will constantly expand your vision if you let it.

Above all, be gentle this month, and compassionate. You won’t overcome your challenges by shouting and screaming at them and punishing yourself when you feel like you’ve slipped up. Instead, operate in a constant state of surrender and forgiveness. The simplest advice for when you feel a little wobbly is to just operate at your highest level – which means your wellness and spiritual practice come first, compassion is a must, and there is no time to indulge drama. Got it?

Questions? Come and chat with me about how your month is going @louniverse

VIRGO / VIRGO RISING – THE LOVERS
Set your intentions for the next few weeks with a lit candle and a positive prayer. The intention itself? Simple, make moves from a place of love for your sweet soul and avoid making your daily planner lists when in a fearful mindset. You’re never too far off your A-game, and if you are feeling swayed right now know that you’re part of a bigger picture and not alone. Call a friend and share some of your stress. Yes I know you’d prefer to always be the “strong” one, but seriously – time to give that game up. You’re awesome and awesome people sometimes feel crap too. It’s fine and it’s valid. Instead of everything to everyone, try just being your own savior – feels good, right?

In the romance zone you might be pondering the concept of soul mates and what that really means. If you have been locked in an unfulfilling (for you) love affair recently then maybe it’s time to sweep the sleep from your eyes, stand up and draw the line. It’s easy to glam up a sad story into something that’s “sooo romantic and dramatic” but actually, maybe it’s just not good for you? Imagine if you could up your game to where the real voodoo lives? Just a couple of energy levels higher into the arena of radical self-love and boundless joy. For those of you already in the swoon zone, then indulge in each other’s needs over the next few weeks, re-tune yourselves to a balanced place and remember not everything is about you – you’re a team, so work it.

I feel like there’s a huge amount of power in your perception this month, and in every given moment consider that you might be able to expand the situation to see it in a way that lifts you up to your highest vibe. It seems that you could be in a period of change – not so much the unexpected, more so that you’ll have to make a bunch of decisions. It’s amazing how complicated we humans make our own process sometimes, with so many fears tied up with the “what if’s”. And yet if we can grasp that we really are just on a journey, then bad choices cease to exist.

Allow yourself to move with confidence, even if it is slowly. Tiptoeing is certainly okay this month, you’ll still get there. Think of it as a gift that you can see the light and dark in each situation, it actually gives you a head start, okay? Just make sure you’re headed in the right direction, yes you know the one. I have no doubt that you will be fine, just try and not question yourself so much. Think about how inspiring and amazing you find all your heroes and mentors, and then remember that they are reflections of you. Bask in your superpowers.

Questions? Come and chat with me about how your month is going @louniverse

LIBRA / LIBRA RISING – THE EIGHT OF PENTACLES
No, you’re not travelling back in time, but perhaps you’ve been feeling like you’ve had to do a lot of back and forth recently, and are a little tired of it? It’s been an odd couple of months – not bad, but there has been a lot of “thinking”, like ideally you’d be on a Caribbean vacation with a coconut cocktail now right. I pulled this card for you last July, so make a note of any familiarities between now and then, as feelings or situations now may be reflective or working together with what was going on then. For instance, you may be experiencing the revival of an old project, or treading familiar territory in a relationship.

You’ve been working on your balance in the last few months, something that comes naturally to you, but this month you’re ready to get head first into something new. I feel you’ve become a bit restless somewhere, that some of you are feeling bored while others are clamoring for change. A need to “expand” is the common ground, so it’s time to immerse yourself in developing or honing a new talent, or to discover something that’s perhaps a little bit out of your comfort zone. It’s amazing how quickly we can shift out of that place of stagnation by inviting something fresh into our lives. So take a scan across every area of your life, love, health, career, spirituality – where is in need of a revamp?

This is where you can do your best work this month. Make it exciting, change doesn’t have to be a hard slog; your aim is to feel enthusiastic about your life again, and to feel like you are working on something that you’re invested in. Can you get behind creating a life that you want to wake up and participate in?

Yes you might be having to comb over current details but while that’s going on, is there something you’ve been shoving to the back of your mind, worrying about whether you’re “good” enough or if it’s a fruitless idea? Give compassion to your desires and dreams, they don’t present themselves for no reason, so how can you honor them?

You are on this adventure right now – don’t ever forget that, even when it seems like a pain in the backside. It’s sometimes hard to accept that we are on a journey when we can’t see the final destination. This is why working with the idea that the present moment is the only thing that’s solid can really help us out. Work with each moment as it comes, and you will avoid a sense of overwhelm or a need to control. Consider yourself as building your pathway and allow yourself time and compassion. You don’t have to race ahead, this month is about nurturing your adventure and starting to carve out new experiences.

Questions? Come and chat with me about how your month is going @louniverse

SCORPIO / SCORPIO – THE PAGE OF CUPS
Faith. Where does yours lie, and in what form? Do you believe in an energy that’s bigger than you? Do you pray to a God or higher power? Are you connected to your own intuition? Do you believe you are the co-creator of your experience, or are you a victim of the Universe? I have no doubt that you can feel things shifting around you and within you right now, which is when it’s easy to be afraid and when old fears come up. But I want you to feel as though you are part of a bigger picture, but also something that resonates with you, that is unique and it’s personal. I can make much more sense of my own challenges when I realign with my belief that I’m on a journey, because I know that everything is a valid part of the puzzle that’s shuffling around to create my story.

This month you will be able to find your peace in the little signs and the tiny shifts, and your only job is to be open to seeing them. Use the word “expand” as a permanent mantra, and when ever you feel stuck or locked in a mindset or a situation make a request to your self or the Universe to open up and create space around you to be able to see your way through. You need every moment of calm that you can create, and I use “create” because it is your own job to support yourself over the next few weeks.

Miracles are circling you all of the time and the synchronicities are there, dancing around waiting for you to tune in. But that tune in will only get locked into place when you just stop and be still. Stillness is always our savior and don’t be overwhelmed by that idea. I‘m not suggesting you lock yourself away to be ‘”alone with your thoughts” for hours on end, how about just one minute breathing steadily with your eyes shut while you’re on the bus? Or a pause on your walk to look up to the sky and down to the earth. Connect.

You’re also still planting seeds that you’ve been scattering for the last few months, and now they are starting to bloom, totally in their own time though and in so many different ways than you expected, right? Choose to remain positive in the face any perceived blockages; perhaps they are in place to make you consider a more relevant and even better direction?

Finally, this week I bumped into an elderly gentleman in the park and we were chatting about his dogs. As I went to leave, he looked at me with a wide smile and said; “Do something exciting this weekend”. The idea of being in the present moment grabbed me. So keep your energy playful, childlike and bright and maybe you can just sail right into the dreams that you desire.

Questions? Come and chat with me about how your month is going @louniverse

SAGITTARIUS / SAGITTARIUS RISING – THE FIVE OF SWORDS
I feel that all the inner work you’re doing at moment is about how you shape your environment. Over the next few weeks you may notice some restructuring going on in your social circle, and with the ways you react to other people. Are you typical of your Fire sign? Are you quick to spark an argument or rush to prove yourself “right”? There is a wonderful delight in learning to pick your battles, or perhaps not even battling at all.

All of our relationships serve as mirrors, and diving into this concept can be an awesome self-help tool. The person that you find so irritating or really struggle with? They’re probably pulling out some of your own fears, or perhaps even reminding you of an aspect of yourself that you don’t like so much. But when you are so quick to form a negative opinion about someone else, this is just the energy you’ve tuned in to, and in turn you may only then see that part of that person.

The easy option for us is to just snap at someone or talk about them behind their back, but does that ever make you feel great? Does it solve the problem or bring help in any way? Not usually. So take a moment and pose those kinds of questions to yourself; Will complaining about this situation help me? Could I extend peace towards these conflicts? This doesn’t mean “backing down” or you being “better than” someone else, it just means honoring that your precious energy is better spent elsewhere.

So, where exactly? In regaining your own personal power of course! When you’re caught up in what others might be thinking then you’ve distracted yourself from honoring your own feelings and journey. Spend as much time as possible in the coming weeks putting attention on the positive feelings you’d like to experience going forward. Remember to envelope yourself with those who uplift you, and also that friendships do shift and change over time. It’s been a busy few months for everyone, so offer your very nearest and dearest a little extra compassion right now. I bet there is one person around you that perhaps wouldn’t ask for help but really needs it – so tune in.

Finally, if you have been feeling a little scattered or worn down then try this visualization. Close your eyes and visualize your solar plexus (the energy center just above the navel and under the ribs) as a large magnet. As you breathe in imagine all of your lost energy being magnetized back to your centre and filling you with warmth. As you breathe out ask to release any energy that is not yours and see dust particles scatter away from you. Do this for as many breath cycles as you like and end with a visualization of a bright white bubble surrounding you. Energy reboot, affirmative!

Questions? Come and chat with me about how your month is going @louniverse

CAPRICORN / CAPRICORN RISING – THE CHARIOT
Let’s talk about the direction in which you’re headed. Your journey is so significant right now, and of course the balance of it. If every aspect of your life right now were the first brick in the foundation of a building, what kind of city would you be creating? Are the foundations solid or shaky? And most of all, would you want to live there?

You don’t always consider putting your own needs first, but I have a feeling that with a bit of practice you might rather like it. When the astro energy is a bit choppy like it is out there this month, you really will ride it out like a pro if you focus on this, even if feels a bit forced to start with. You’re looking at a few weeks that might seem to go quite fast, and it’s essential to grab the reins and steer in the direction that you would like. I feel that you are also aware from the last six months that when things aren’t right they kind of fizzle out pretty fast anyway, and what you are aiming to hone right now is the ability to beat this before it even happens.

If it feels like things are going too fast for you, check that you are feeling fully embodied in your life. I’ve noticed that when we’re experiencing blocks it’s because we have hopped out of our body a little, perhaps into the future or the past. So just stop and just be present with your surroundings. Try using walking as a meditation, put that phone back in your bag and just focus on what’s around you, each person, each object, what the air feels like, what the colors look like. This is such a quick and easy way to pull yourself back into your body and also a very strong exercise to remind yourself that you are part of a bigger picture. You are not alone in your challenges.

You’re maybe thinking a little more long term than usual too, and certainly exploring new territory. It’s easy to be afraid of the unknown, even if it’s feeling good, because we can never see exactly how things are going to end up, we only have our plans. But I encourage you to enjoy every step, because if it feels good and right then you are exactly where you’re supposed to be, and the rest will form as you go.

Finally, shake your own foundations and chuck out what isn’t working for you, because I know you have plenty of rather nice things to fill that space, right? Make room for the LOVE and the FUN and the JOY. Seriously, these are the things that matter, so move in their direction.

Questions? Come and chat with me about how your month is going @louniverse

AQUARIUS / AQUARIUS RISING – THE NINE OF PENTACLES
If last month was about shaking up your foundations, then April is about choosing how you’re going to rebuild them. The chance to settle into new ways and habits can feel a bit odd at first, as it entails getting used to an exciting something/someone, or coping with something that is no longer present. But it’s okay, you’re doing the best job you can. So your whole attitude for this month has to be about staying on your highest energy plane and looking after yourself in an epically wonderful way. Are you ready for that? Of course you are.

First up, rediscover or create what your own miracle saving tactic can be when you feel stuck or stressed out. When I feel blocked when trying to work, I grab my keys and just charge out the door for a walk, even if it’s just around the block – yes this is total a perk of being freelance, but you will find your own way. Breath work, a moving meditation, a song on repeat, a moment of solitude or a mantra. It’s kind of awesome to have a go-to way to calm down, and to know that your “safe place” can be inside you and accessed any time, anywhere.

So now, how about your external environment? This is the place that we really can’t control, as we aren’t at liberty to know what others are going to do around us. But we can hone and help ourselves as much as possible. First up, your home – time to bring in a little feng shui, or just some fresh flowers? Make your bedroom somewhere that you are excited to fall to sleep and wake up! It sounds insanely simple, but there are plenty of us who push nurturing our space to the bottom of the list. The ideal comfort zone is having a precious place in your home where you can practice the above and get a double dose of grounding and reenergizing, all created by you!

I feel like the people around you, at work or in your family or social circle, might be a bit wobbly over the next few weeks, so remember how your energy can often create the scene you’re in. With this in mind, it’s time to bring the light and the encouraging talk to the room. I don’t feel that you need to be very adventurous this month, as it’s a time for really indulging in what you know feels right for you. For instance socially, make time to only hang out with the friends who give you that warm and fuzzy feeling inside and head to the places where you can glide into your favourite seat.

It’s likely that within your happy places, inside and out, you will find exciting guidance, whether your inner voice shouts out quite the epiphany or you spy a career breakthrough right under your nose. Just keep your eyes open.

Questions? Come and chat with me about how your month is going @louniverse

PISCES / PISCES RISING – THE HERMIT
As above, so below. As within, so without. This is a month of plugging yourself in to your personal energy charger and sitting quietly and prepping for action. So take that pressure OFF, right now, seriously, you don’t have to do anything or have to be anywhere. Reshuffle your space so there is plenty of time to be still, even if it’s just a few seemingly tiny moments in what you see as a sea of chaos. Find them.

Your outer environment will mirror what’s inside, so of course you have to start rebuilding your inner soul system in order to rebalance what you see around you. If you are surrounded by drama and theatrics, maybe it’s your own inner push and pull that needs attending to. Does the space feel not quite safe around you? Then keep finding that safe place inside. Whatever you see around you, see if you can find the parallel within, and then commit to doing the work.

Remember your ability to flow and work it, you aren’t a fish for no reason! Dive, search, float – but don’t swim away. This is why the power of recharging is so epic, and you can think of the next few weeks as a period of evolution. Usually when these moments are required it’s because there’s a shift up ahead that will need you to be very present. I feel that any projects that you want to launch, people you want to woo or celebrations you are waiting for will be in your vision towards the end of the month, so you are just quietly prepping.

When faced with this card, it’s always useful to edge away from what you think “Hermit” means – you aren’t about to go and sit in a cave and have no friends for the next ten years (which is what people always think when they see this card!) In fact, you’re just making way for the new and improved you and you need to be silent now in order to shine forth in the months to come.

I always like to remind you of avoiding your own dramatics, especially with a card of retreat like this, so go swim in an expansive, adventurous space, not in your own tears. Got it? If you really tune into what’s around you right now you should be able to pick what can go and what should stay. Remember you are not the victim of the story, more so the master of it, and any situations that feel out of your control can be twisted around so that your personal power comes back into the picture. Sometimes we need to just go in and edit our story and make ourselves the hero, right? Time to remember that you ARE the hero, the good guys come out on top and that, yes, LOVE rules.

Questions? Come and chat with me about how your month is going @louniverse

Cast by Louise Androlia using the Rider Waite Tarot Deck

SIMPLY ME: REDEFINING SUCCESS THROUGH SELF-KNOWLEDGE

What does “successful” look like to you? Redefining success on your own terms can only be done by going within, says Ruby Warrington.

The SUCCESS bracelet by Melissa Curry

What does “success” mean for me? It’s a question that’s been circling my very being since last summer when I interviewed Arianna Huffington about The Third Metric – her campaign to encourage us all to consider “success” beyond the relentless pursuit of money, accolades and power. And this week, I met a woman who has helped put into words the journey I’ve found myself on.

Melissa Curry is an Irish jewellery designer whose SUCCESS collection features a motivational amulet, designed to be gifted to the woman in your life you want to encourage to be the best she can be. A delicate rose-gold bracelet or necklace features an 18 carat gold bar inscribed with the word “Success.” And if, “the bar represents our inner strength, success can mean…everything,” she told me.

For Curry, whose personal journey has taken her from glittering career in Paris to destitute, single-mother of one, meaning some radical shifts in her own perception of success over the past decade; “it’s not about external power, and, for a woman, it’s certainly not about competing with men. It’s about being you, knowing what makes you tick, what makes your heart work, what makes your mind work, and embodying that.”

YES. Success for me is simply about being true to being me. At work, in my relationships and in my physical body. And this is when I realized that so much of what we cover on The Numinous is about tapping into exactly that.

From learning how to read and work with what the Astro Twins call your “factory settings” in your own astrological chart, to developing your intuition or “psychic powers” or embarking on a transcendental juice fast, isn’t so much of modern new age (what I like to call “now age”) thinking, about seeking to develop a more intimate and comfortable understanding of who we really are on the inside – and, therefore, what we really want?

For me, stepping off the media merry-go-round and leaving a high-profile magazine job to launch my own Internet project last year was the beginning of this journey. Creating something from my heart, working in my own environment, to my own hours and with the people of my own choosing has made me feel successful in ways that far eclipse the glamour, status and influence of my old life.

Of course, the fact that I can also structure my day to include a guided meditation to meet my spirit power animal is by no means going to tick the success box for everybody – but that’s the whole point. There is no one-size-fits-all definition of success.

And the fact I get emails every week thanking me for creating The Numinous is the icing on the cake. It’s also an illustration of how stepping into a definition of success that means something to me personally, I find myself giving something back and having a positive impact on the world around me almost by default.

My friend Jennifer Kass, a happiness coach and self-described “love pioneer” put a brilliant post up on Facebook the other day. In it, she described “The 3 Stages of Human Evolution (from my perspective, of course),” with step one, “Sleeping,” defined as; “Being stuck in a job and/or relationship that is toxic, causing physical mental and emotional ailments, denial, addiction, living in fear, anxiety, suffering, doubt, lack and limitation.”

Step two, “Waking up,” involves using all the Numinous tools – “meditation, self-love, healing, a return to wholeness, freedom, self-knowledge, joy” – to engender step three – “Action.” And here’s where the rubber really meets the road; “We take full responsibility for choices that will change our lives, and we let go of what is no longer serving us by taking courageous action.”

Further, she argues, “Now that we know who we are and what we’re here for, we go out into the world, sharing the gifts and passions we came here to, which in turn perfectly align with ending suffering on the planet in various forms.” A lofty ambition, maybe, but why not? Human suffering – and what alleviates it – comes in many forms too.

I’m not a big one for a motivational quote (quality over quantity, people), but I saw this, from Howard Thurman, at a Lululemon event recently; “Don’t ask what the world needs. Ask what makes you come alive, and go do it. Because what the world needs is people who have come alive.” And knowing your SELF – that is, being in direct conversation with the spirit being piloting your human form on a daily basis – is the only way to answer that question too.

Each piece in Melissa Curry’s collection comes with a little card, where you can write your definition of success. So what does it mean to you?

Melissacurry.com

TAROTSCOPES: MARCH 2014

PISCES – QUEEN OF PENTACLES

Happy Birthday sweet swimmer! As the two bookends of the Zodiac, you and Aries both have the same cards come up as last month. To say February will merge it’s energy with March is obvious, but whatever you were working on last month will follow through too and I feel that much of the mood is a continuing search for stability.

It can be easy for you to swim against your own tide or, dare I even say it, flee from the idea of being ‘tied down’.

Yet you are always searching for something that feels like home. What does the steady flow that you desire look and feel like to you? It’s good to work with this to remind yourself that your journey isn’t a prescription laid out with no fluidity – instead it’s quite the opposite. If you desire a partnership but don’t want to feel like your wings have been clipped, then know that it’s completely possible to find someone who rides the same wave as you and gives you the space you want. Instead of running from people who express interest in you, allow everyone else the option to be unique and different – don’t try and label or pin people down to what you think they are. This will limit your opportunities to bring in the right kinds of friends, lovers, partners and work mates to expand your experience.

Along with this search for solid ground, know that there is a balance between the material and spiritual and that it’s ok to be in both worlds. I feel that this month you may be working with that balance and occasionally questioning which is the ‘right’ way to be. Remove this pressure and again, allow yourself to expand in all directions. There is no need in this day and age to separate the two. You can be practical with your intuition and be spiritual in your day to day.

This month allows you to stop and re-shuffle priorities, feelings and plans. The joy lies in your ability to create an environment that works for you. I feel that you may also be considering the ground you walk on; some of you feeling like putting down roots and committing to new homes, classes and jobs, while others are experiencing the opposite – purely because these foundation may not feel right. In this case, you will maybe even relocate.

The main thing I’d like you to work on though is a steadiness. The fact that this very earthy card has come up twice makes me want to let you know it’s okay to slow down. You don’t need to make hasty decisions and a little going over of matters and thoughts will not do you any harm. Maybe during last month’s Mercury retrograde it already felt like your brakes were being pulled (or plans thwarted) – so allow this and take time to go over plans. It’s so easy to be impatient, but what if the only thing you are really supposed to do this month is stop, look and learn?

Chat with Louise Androlia about how your month is going @louniverse

 

ARIES – TWO OF SWORDS

Like Pisces you have the same card come up as last month. I know you are always ready to race from the starting blocks and again this month there is still a cause for stillness. In February I mentioned decision-making, and how hard it can be when you feel impatient. You might notice that theme continuing over the next few weeks. Although Mercury is no longer retrograde, Mars (your ruler, planet of motivation) has taken over the retrograde throne so it’s perhaps still a point of slow down. Again, no need to fear this, but use it to your advantage.

When I look at the card this time around I feel quite a strong sense of peace. I feel that you know there is a lot of potential change around you and upcoming and that you are ok with it. It’s always more important to put your energy on being excited about the future and what it might bring, rather than the fear of what might happen. I love the idea of making your ‘will’ bigger in your mind than your ‘won’t’. So let this month ease you into the changes you have planned.

I feel a certain amount of the next few weeks might also be about succumbing to working with other people, something you love doing but which can easily stress you out when all decisions aren’t ‘yours’ to make. Any time you feel that your sense of personal control is tested this is a chance to grown and expand within your journey. Make the surrender practice your mantra this March – and know that maybe letting someone else lead you a little is like actually giving you space somewhere inside that melting pot of ideas to rest. The main thing though is just to allow flow, in as many ways as possible. That way, if things do become frustrating you will just laugh it off – knowing that you are ahead of the game and you love all the twists and turns your adventure brings.

I also feel that dreams might be significant for you this month (who knows, maybe you might give lucid dreaming a shot?) and possibly time to start up a journal to write out what your subconscious throws out – you may find some of the answers you seek are packaged up in unusual ways, so be on the look out for hidden messages and sly synchronicities.

What I feel you might discover is that right towards the end of the month you notice opportunities blooming and answers arriving in new forms. I feel that by April there also could be someone new arriving into your career space. It could be collaboration, business coach or even an awesome new accountant – either way, someone that might take your work life up a notch in your desired direction.

Chat with Louise Androlia about how your month is going @louniverse

 

TAURUS – DEATH

Ch-ch-ch-ch-chaaanggeees. You know change is all around you, right? I feel quite confident that none of you reading this is unaware that plans are a-foot, things are a-coming and horizons are expanding. Right. The main question though is how are you approaching this? Are you full of fear or standing with arms wide open ready to embrace the new like a long lost BFF?

Last month I spoke about new work opportunities so this card may be bringing in your desire to get prepped for the launch of a new project. Don’t worry too much if the change you had already anticipated doesn’t swoop in as soon as you hoped, this month still has a sense of slowness to it. But remember slow and stead wins the race. This is the chance to elegantly move in the direction you desire, and not panic or obsess about when the outcome is coming. It IS coming, so just let yourself breathe. For instance if you are waiting for a few technical details to come through, it doesn’t mean you can’t still be out and about sharing your plans with others. Talking about the new is also an on the down low manifestation exercise. Talk as if it what you want is already happening and you bring in that energy. Before you know it BOOM – it has.

This month I also want you to keep working with the possibilities that life can bring when you move positively with a sense of flow. Admittedly you aren’t the first one to shake up your foundations, yet you’re often surprisingly (to yourself) good at coping when the ground shakes. I don’t feel this is a time of unexpected change, It feels too upbeat for that, I would rather you think of how you can invite change in to make your life better and brighter for you.

How to do this? Well an easy way is to give a scan of your environment and take note of anything that you feel needs a shake up. Perhaps you’re desperate to get out of a job that’s no longer working or even just revamp your schedule to make it work better for you. Maybe you have a relationship that needs to finally be kicked to the curb. OR, on the contrary, one that needs more love and nurture. Do you need a major mind-body-spirit reconnect?  Is it time to change your schedule so you have more time for yourself?

This month might not bring all the action, but it should bring in the ideas and certainly the intentions. So settle and make plans and baby steps. There are a million possibilities and you are the one with all the answers. I’m not going to tell you what you need to shift – you know exactly what it is babe. Arms open wide.

Chat with Louise Androlia about how your month is going @louniverse

 

GEMINI – NINE OF SWORDS

What have you got to worry about? I feel a major sense of anxiety, but it doesn’t feel so present – did last month dredge up a bunch of old fears and niggling irritations? If you are feeling sleepless at night and restless in the day because of worries and too much chatter in your own mind – it’s okay. We all have times like these, and really it’s always a swift shout out for nurture and self-care. It is really easy to feel bound up by your own thoughts, especially as an Air sign, but it’s equally important to learn to sift through them and consider what is real and what is a fear based illusion.

I have a real sense that there is less to be stressed about than you think, and actually if you open your eyes and look around you it’s likely you will find that all those around you have been feeling the hard push recently too. While it’s not good to indulge in a ‘misery loves company’ vibe, it’s super important and essential that you know that you are not alone. Talk it out with your nearest and dearest, ask for help if you need it, check in with your therapist or coach for a boost of advice, and print out some of your favorite quotes. There are a myriad of resources around you that might just give you the pick me up that you need.

Also remember that your challenges are only ever in place to lead you to higher ground. Even that slightly annoying work colleague is an assignment for you to take on. Everything always makes a little more sense in retrospect so just keep moving.

Meanwhile make time to be kind to yourself this month. Even if you don’t feel you are held up with fears you could, like many of us, have just been really overworked recently and need to tap in to the slower moving astro energy that is around due to energizing Mars taking over the retrograde motion (thought Mercury is now direct woo-hoo!)

With this in mind, approach your own wellness with the kiss of kindness – this is not the time to set yourself a punishing regime, no way! Instead just think about raising your energy by nourishing your body with whole foods and gentle exercise. Get outside; there is something to be said for simply brushing off the cobwebs. If you feel stuck or frustrated, stop and take even just five minutes to march round the block – it’s amazing what that burst of movement and fresh air can do.

Of course you can also go the full on self-love route and book yourself in for spa treatments, blowouts and private meditation classes – do what you feel and feel what you do. Anything you do this month that is for your own sense of well-being will propel you out of any fear funks.

Chat with Louise Androlia about how your month is going @louniverse

 

CANCER – FIVE OF WANDS

Drama only exists if you participate in it. I live by these words as often as possible, even when tempted out of them by the bells and whistles of my ego or the world around me. Now I know that you aren’t the gossip of the group, so you are on a right footing, but what do you do when commotion is all around you? I’m diving right in here, but it may be that you know exactly what I’m on about. Family dramas, friends in blabbermouth mode or some major nitpicking happening in the workspace? Of course all you want to do is batten down the hatches and go underground, but of course it’s not always that easy.

The best thing you can do is not indulge any of these things that are rattling your inner being. Sure you might not be able to stop others waving their egos around the room, but you don’t have to join in or encourage it. It’s really okay to just stand back. I always press the idea of being the fly on the wall in your own life. There is an amazing clarity you can get when you stop to view your own situation as an outsider. Of course this is exactly why a life coach or therapist can be so helpful as they start out with a third person point of access. However it’s a great personal practice so get buzzing and fly to the corner of the room. What exactly is happening here? Is there a real drama or is it self-made? Is everyone actually fighting for the same cause? Maybe you might just need to leave everyone to it and stay in safe mode – you know that behaving in a way that isn’t true to yourself never gets you anywhere anyway.

Meanwhile as always make a point of being kind to yourself this month, especially if anything in your sphere feels chaotic – just enjoy your own time. There is a juice of fun creativity to be squeezed from this month if you manage to choose you time over theatrics. In fact, isn’t creativity your best therapeutic tool? Why not paint it all out, draw, dance, explore? Plan your adventures for the rest of the year, encourage and support your best self to bring in a boost of confidence.

Don’t pin yourself down to having to ‘achieve’ things this month, just set your intentions and tackle each day as it comes. You may also find that friends come running to you with their issues, after all you are one of the best empathetic advice givers they know! This is all and well, but just be sure not to let your energy take a dive in consequence. Recharge your inner soul system with taking a moment to check in with your inner guide – especially if you have been a little out of touch recently.

Chat with Louise Androlia about how your month is going @louniverse

 

LEO – THE SUN

A little nod back to October for you my lion, as again this card pops up. And as the Sun is your ruling planet too, of course it’s never a bad one to reacquaint yourself with. So what has been happening the last few months? It’s been a hard slog for many people recently, you too? Feels like you’ve been over working and under appreciating yourself. If that rings true then you know the answer already and with this card it’s pretty simple. Make some time for joy.

Why is this so hard sometimes? It is such a human mindset to believe in a ‘no pain, no gain’ mentality, to trudge up the hill and believe that there will be no let up until you are total beaten down. It really doesn’t have to be like that.

What does happiness mean to you? It’s a question that can stump us. Where is it? But happiness and joy are not destinations, which means you have to open up to seeing something good in any given moment. It can be a challenge but it’s actually a fun game to play. What is outside your front door tomorrow morning will be different depending on the way you perceive it. I really believe that positive energy is something that you can tune into and that you can tweak your sight to see things in a more expansive way.

So this month practice that tune in. Recognize that relief from stress might be found in five quiet minutes alone if you stop to be in the moment. If you find that your mind is running in all sorts of directions apart from the present then try a writing practice. Make a list of all the fears, thoughts, what if’s and plans that are on your mind. Then give them recognition and choose to focus on one thing that is in your present moment – it might be drinking from your glass, taking a bite of food, connecting with nature or reading from a book. Every time you feel a scatter of mind, try this and just go back to whatever is with you in the minute. Your energy will benefit from this and reboot your system to connect mind and body to a more conscious state.

Combine the above with a gratitude practice to up your state of positive awareness. You can write what you are grateful for down as an evening journaling practice or try a site like happyrambles.com that will email you at the time of your choosing asking ‘What are you grateful for?’ You have a free pass to take a break and enjoy life this month, and if you really must look to the future, make it be about the vacation you are planning!

Chat with Louise Androlia about how your month is going @louniverse

 

VIRGO – ACE OF WANDS

Raring to share? With this card in play you are no doubt feeling ready to get something out into the open and whether that is a personal announcement or a business launch the time feels right. I turned over a lot of strugglesome cards this month, as energetic Mars takes the retrograde flag from Mercury, but I have a feeling you are going to breeze through with a little fire on your side and in your heart.

This is a month of prepping for a new start, and you have the passion. This doesn’t feel like a boring, got to get things done kind of a vibe, more so that you can’t keep your new in. I feel one of our big missions in life is to share, in fact I’m sure it’s why we have all of our experiences – in order to help others with what we have learned. This is something to always keep in mind when you are having a challenge, to recognize that you are being lead to higher ground and that the moment has purpose, even if the reason is clouded in mist right now. So if now does happen to have a foggy overtone you will get to the clear skies by honing in on what you are passionate about and participating in it unapologetically!

Yes I did say that, you have a green light to go for your own gold. I know you are working hard and deserve some loving payback. So start by giving that love directly to the source, aka YOU.

Anyway, back to those ideas, I feel you have a cauldron bubbling up, in fact it’s likely you even feel overwhelmed with the potential you can see for the next few months or year and are wondering where to start. Back to the moment and just start by taking one step or making one move – by putting your faith in and taking the starting action you bring in trust that the direction will become clearer ahead. If you always send out your projects with solid integrity and love then it’s hard to go wrong and allow things to be different to what you perhaps expect. It could be that the big success this month is something you hadn’t put in the forefront – but surprises are awesome right?

I feel that you are also going to want to spend some time with fellow trail blazers, in fact you’ll probably feel high in the company of those who inspire you. It’s likely that some pals may need your advice over the next few weeks too and teamwork will be an all ‘round win. Anyway, I know you have it in the bag, just know that you are allowed to be confident in your ability to be out living your life and doing your do. There is no other you, remember?

Chat with Louise Androlia about how your month is going @louniverse

 

LIBRA – JUSTICE

This is a month of getting things done and dusted and I feel participating in something system oriented will probably bring in some calm. The last few months may have flown by in a whirlwind of emotions and feelings and so stopping to check in and do some material world prep might rather suit you.

So what do you want to start with? Prepping early for your taxes? Some spring cleaning? I feel that it’s likely you are quite aware of where the balance has tipped and will know what to do. This isn’t about turning into a control freak and setting totally unmanageable targets though, quite the opposite. I want you to feel happy about just being present and getting through some tasks, there is no deadline here. I laugh saying that, because it’s easy to be unharmonious on purpose right? Always seeking grace yet ever so slyly tipping the barrel?

This is a slow moving energy and so don’t panic if you feel like you are waiting on results for something – this is why I say just focus on the clean up at your end. It’s easy to get really attached to the outcome of a project, an idea or a dream – we all do it. However you need to allow fluidity to what it is you are hoping for and the best way you can do that is just do one action based thing today. Some of you may even be dealing with legal matters, whether it’s committing to new work contracts or even just having to research into the system of something, and it could feel a little boring. Remind yourself that logistics and stuff that just ‘needs to be done’ is only in place to lead you to an easier road ahead and I know you’ll get a lot of satisfaction from a clean filing cabinet or a rearranged closet.

Meanwhile this energy can also be used for you to reshuffle and check in with your own list of do’s and don’ts. Feeling moralistic? Avoid going on a judgmental rampage and giving yourself permission to decide what you think about everyone else’s lives – this is just a form of procrastination. Instead hone in on how you are feeling right now in regards to your attitude and approach to life, maybe you need a little tune back in to the positive? It’s not as simple as an on/off switch but stepping up and deciding you would like to participate in your experience is a good start. Life is never happening at you, but it is happening with you.

Meanwhile for any of you having control issues, If you want to get focused about anything then get set on your own health and wellness, especially if you’ve neglected it recently. Turn over a new leaf and bring in some passion for a new system – whether it’s splashing out on the juicer you’ve been dying to get or signing up to a different type of yoga class – make it fun.

Chat with Louise Androlia about how your month is going @louniverse

 

SCORPIO – THE TWO OF WANDS

It’s funny, because I feel that you have been under as much stress as everyone else recently, but you have your eyes on a prize and it’s keeping you afloat. Last month I spoke about making time to allow yourself some joy and I want you to keep honoring that as we move into the next few weeks. I feel that you are really looking ahead right now, and it’s not a bad thing – that carrot dangling in front of you is certainly appealing.

It’s important that you don’t step into fears of not knowing the outcome over the next few months. You might be launching a new project, at the start of a relationship or waiting on some important news and would kind of appreciate a look into the crystal ball right now. You know I’m not going to do that, but I feel that the answer is going to be in enjoying the anticipation – really? Yep. Make it fun. A forced surrender can actually be a pretty healing time. You are in place where your powers of manifestation are heightened – so throw your ideas out and trust that the return is going to be great. Maybe it will be different to your prediction, but it will be exactly as it should be.

I feel inspiration is also running high, while you have many new plans for your life waiting to get started you also have a million new light bulbs going off each moment. This is a good thing, but can also feel just as confusing as it can productive, so no need to get overwhelmed. Of course the answer is always going to be to try and stay in the moment. Treat each day as a possibility for something new to bloom that will be added to shape the experience ahead, who knows what might come into play in the next day let alone month.

I also feel travel is ahoy, or that you’re are planning it, because you do seem to have itchy feet. Satisfying the need to get out of town doesn’t have to mean booking an expensive around the world trip. Even just leaving the town you are in can give you a change of pace and attitude. There’s a lot to be said for exploring your own surroundings and your country. That said, if you are planning a move or big adventure then this month supports that and it might be fun getting creative with travel plans – vision board anyone?

Finally you are in a collaborative mood and following on from last month you still need to be connecting with those who support your cause and boost your soul system. So keep in touch – whether it be chatting via facetime or making some time for real face time. Oh and p.s. Learning a new skill could be a surprise success over the next few months so check out your local collages and get out of your comfort zone.

Chat with Louise Androlia about how your month is going @louniverse

 

SAGITTARIUS – THE FIVE OF CUPS

A nod back to November this month as this card comes back in to play, so you may see a link to how you felt at the end of last year. Even better, look for any lessons you learned then and pull them out to be your super power over the next few weeks. Last month I spoke about getting a little more in tune with your life and participating in shaping your destiny. With Mercury now direct I feel you may have dredged up some old fears, habits and maybe even faces recently and are wondering what to do in the face of the new and the old combined.

Well the hot news is that our guidance is always a lot more simple than we expect it to be, and as this is a slow and steady month and your main task is just to carry on sitting at that wheel and allow things to play out. Of course the action is to put your eyes on the positive and not those spilt cups of milk. I feel that you’ve been whipped into a frenzy of busy busy busy recently and it’s all been good, but oh boy are you wiped out. It feels like you might have a combination of social and career tiredness. It’s not that you are having a bad time but you wouldn’t mind a time warp that allowed you to climb into a still space for a month and then return to your overloaded diary.

You can manage it all though, by making sure to put space in your diary for nothing. Yes, schedule in a big gap here and there and forbid yourself to fill it up with activity. If you get in the moment then even five minutes sat down and acknowledged can be enough to boost your system.

So what do you do about the dance of nostalgia that flared up? You like to analyze, but beware of its paralyzing effect on you, or your ego’s desire to come out on top. Maybe that person that you need to let go of can just be freed, there is no benefit to ‘having the last word’ – in fact it often remains as an energetic hook to keep you connected to the situation. Forgive and forget is kind of an annoying phrase, but it’s sentiment is strong. Sending love in the direction of your annoyances is surprisingly freeing and creates a nice space for new opportunities and connections to swoop in.

Finally I feel that you might notice any career craziness calm down into a schedule that actually makes sense. Any contacts and contracts that suddenly slip away are doing so in order to give space to what is really going to work for you, so don’t even bother entertaining any sense of perceived failure. If you give everything in your life room to breathe this month it will definitely work in your favor.

Chat with Louise Androlia about how your month is going @louniverse

 

CAPRICORN – THE KNIGHT OF SWORDS

Last month I encouraged you to reconnect with some of your passions and remind yourself that you get to shape your own experience. As March arrives you probably feel a little more connected to what you do and don’t want to have in your life. Of course this reshuffle can be frustrating when you are dying to get that dream life on the go – just rest assured that your intentions are enough of a good start.

Anyway, back to business. You do have a green light to make some moves – in fact you are one of the signs this month that is feeling less static. The key is in moving in the direction that you want and not rushing ahead like a wild fire. We all know that you can be a workaholic but spreading yourself too thin on projects that aren’t even your life and soul – what is the point? You have time to pick and choose what is going to work for you, but you also have to trust that it’s ok to be the boss of your own life. This is a great few weeks to stop and breakdown projects that you are working on and piece them together in a way that works for you.

You also have a good communicative energy this month and so let your talk give you your walk. You may in fact be bursting with pioneering ideas and so it’s good to share – even if it’s just in your journal for now.

Energetically, for an earthbound sign you could be feeling quite scattered over the next few weeks, possibly due to with your mind buzzing with so much information and ideas. When we’re ungrounded it can express via our health with feelings of anxiety or even dizziness. You know that feeling when you don’t feel quite connected, because you are thinking in too many places at once? To bring back in some of your earth energy try a perma visualization of strong roots growing out of your feet and into the earth – connecting you back to the present moment. Other great ways to get your earth on are stocking up on whole foods – eat items that you could grow yourself and stay away from too much sugar (a classic spacey brain inducing product).

You may notice that there is a touch of chaos in your external environment, maybe some age old dramas in your friendship group or people you know going through their own challenges. It’s likely that they will call on you for advice and opinions and while you love to be the support rod (and are a guardian angel to many) it can be a big energy sapper for you. Being of service doesn’t mean draining your own supply, so be on guard to make sure you are on the receiving end in equal measure. You know the drill… BE KIND TO YOURSELF!

Chat with Louise Androlia about how your month is going @louniverse

 

AQUARIUS – THE TOWER

And lightning strikes! People often want to run a mile when they see this card but it carries a wealth of useful guidance and also, adventure. It’s likely that things have really shaken up recently, and in all sorts of weird and wild ways. I feel that this month may just be cementing that ‘out of the blue’ mood and it’s nothing to be afraid of. Have you been surprised by things that have happened recently? It could be in your external environment or even that you had a strange change of mind or opinion. There are shifts at play and I feel you might only be aware of the effects. I also think this could be a fun opportunity to embrace and new and unusual – and be less scared of it than you used to.

I kind of want you to embrace every possible positive approach to this card, are you up for it? Okay let’s go.

Accept people into your life that you perhaps would never have given a chance before – who knows what you might learn! Feel brave enough to say a final N.O. to something you’ve been dying to let go of for a long time. Feel brave enough to try everything and anything new. Shake up your own foundations in order to get ahead of the Universe – bring in any change you need, and welcome it with open arms. Be the support system for someone who has helped you in the past – they might not be asking for help but you may feel a silent call. Switch up your attitude to everything that fears you.

Is it money? Shock yourself by getting super passionate about your finances, because you deserve the abundant life you want you know. Is it relationship issues? Shock yourself into a new cycle by giving commitment a shot, sure you don’t know the outcome – we never do, but if it feels right then recognize it’s part of your journey. Give your body a boost too, by experimenting with eating for your symptoms and your unique self and enjoy a whole new mind-body connection. Take down your own ego by choosing to become BFFs with your intuition instead, it’s time to check back in and say ‘hello me’! Leave the job that you hate so much. Apply for the dream job that scares you.

Then write a letter to yourself aged 15 and tell them everything is going to be ok. Be the change you want to see in the world, right? Forget about obsessing over dramas, just shine as bright as you can and let others absorb that vibe. And don’t indulge chaos – if you don’t participate in theatrics then they rarely explode. Be the lover. Start that book, write that proposal, forgive yourself and be willing to forgive your challenges. Step up to the adventure that is your life and check yourself in.

Chat with Louise Androlia about how your month is going @louniverse

Cast by Louise using the Rider Waite Tarot Deck

THE FASHION WEEK ZODIAC WHEEL: DESIGNERS BY SIGN

The creations of our most iconic fashion designers always reflect the traits of their sign – so what part of the Fashion Week Zodiac Wheel speaks to the fashionista in you?

ARIES: MARC JACOBS

**DARING ** SELF-CONFIDENT ** TREND-SETTING ** EGOTISTICAL ** ATHLETIC ** STRONG **
One of fashion’s true thought leaders, with the show that closes New York Fashion Week Marc Jacobs is pretty much the only designer out of NYC with the power to set trends (not just capitalise massively on them). He also turned high fashion on its head when he invented grunge, and famously spends two hours a day in the gym honing that athletic Aries physique.

TAURUS: DONATELLA VERSACE

Atelier Versace Couture 2014

**SENSUOUS ** AESTHETIC ** MATERIALISTIC ** LOYAL ** LUXURY-LOVING ** RELIABLE  **
The ultimate material girl, Donatella’s vision never wavers – women have red carpets to walk down, and damnit she’s going to give them the glamazon gowns to do it in. When her brother Gianni (a flamboyant Sagittarius) was brutally gunned down in 1997, the Versace family knew they could rely on determined Taurus Donatella to follow in his diamante-studded, gold leaf inlaid footsteps.

GEMINI: HENRY HOLLAND

House of Holland AW07

**ORIGINAL ** COMMUNICATIVE ** QUICK-WITTED ** VERSATILE ** IMITATIVE **
As the sign that rules communication, is it any wonder that Gemini Henry Holland launched his House of Holland label with a line of cheeky slogan t-shirts? This set the tone for a playful streak that runs through every collection – the “House” in question also including his legion celebrity friends / fans always crowding out the frow at his shows.

CANCER: VERA WANG

Vera Wang Bridal SS14

**DEVOTIONAL ** DOMESTIC ** EMOTIONAL ** TRADITIONAL ** NOSTALGIC ** FAMILIAL**
Who else but Cancer Vera Wang could have cornered the market for high fashion bridal gowns? Wang’s name has become synonymous with the kind of wedding that fairy tales are made of – having dressed everyone from Mariah Carey to Victoria Beckham for their big day. As Cancer also rules the home (and by default, wedding gift lists?),  it makes sense that she expanded into homeware in 2002.

LEO: JEREMY SCOTT

Jeremy Scott SS14

** PLAYFUL ** CHILDLIKE ** ENTERTAINING ** DRAMATIC ** HUMOROUS ** FUN-LOVING **
The eternal club-kid, Leo Jeremy Scott refuses to grow up and get serious. This is the man who invented a pair of sneakers with a teddy bear’s head where the tongue should be, FFS. And he walks the walk. His own outfits are as outrageous as his you-cannot-be-serious creations, while in his case the lion’s mane is his signature (sometimes peroxide blonde) quiff / mohawk.

VIRGO: STELLA MCCARTNEY

Stella McCartney SS14

** PERFECTIONIST ** RESERVED ** INTELLIGENT ** PRACTICAL ** DETAIL-ORIENTED ** NEAT **
Smart women love Stella’s less-is-more, demure-yet-doin’ it approach, and, as a health-conscious, righteous Virgo, she’s as  known for her staunch vegetarianism as her catwalk prowess. Hello seriously discerning women paying astronomical sums for pleather bags and shoes. Consistently hailed as a designer who serves the needs of “real women,” she also has a penchant for virginal white.

LIBRA: DONNA KARAN

Donna Karan Urban Zen

** BALANCED ** SOCIALLY AWARE ** GRACEFUL ** REFINED ** RELATIONSHIP-ORIENTED **
Before Donna Karan came along with her ‘Essentials’ line in 1985 – seven easy pieces that could be mixed and matched to create the perfectly balanced work-life wardrobe – there were suits and there were leisure suits and there wasn’t much in between.  She was also being true to her Libra roots when she launched her Urban Zen foundation, selling thousand dollar shirts to aid indigenous cultures and support holistic wellness studies.

SCORPIO: RICK OWENS

Rick Owens menswear FW09

**INTENSE ** SEXUAL ** MYSTERIOUS ** AGGRESSIVE ** TRANSFORMATIVE ** FORCEFUL **
Who else but Rick Ownes would you wear to a high fashion sex party in the backstreets of Berlin? Not only is his all-black aesthetic directly out of some futuristic occult situation (I mean, he has a diffusion line called DRKSHDW), his bondage-inspired creations have the power to totally transform the body of the wearer. And, openly bi, you just know he and his wife Michele Lamy are into some kinky shiz.

SAGITTARIUS: JOHN GALLIANO

** OUTGOING ** EXPANSIVE ** BLUNT ** FORTUNATE ** PROFESSOR ** MORAL **
Outspoken to, ahem, a fault, it’s still unclear where disgraced designer John Galliano will settle following the antisemitic outburst that got him sacked from the top spot at Dior in 2011. After a guest slot at Oscar de le Renta (brokered by none other than Anna Wintour, hello resourceful Scorpio fashion fairy godmother) for AW13, rumors are circulating that he make take up a teaching post at Parsons.

CAPRICORN: DIANE VON FURSTENBURG

** PRACTICAL ** BUSINESSLIKE ** AMBITIOUS ** AUTHORITATIVE ** FOCUSSED ** REALISTIC **
Where would working women the world over be without Capricorn DVF and her iconic wrap dress?? The consummate fashion mogul, when she launched her company in 1970 her decision to “be someone of my own, and not just a plain little girl who got married” made her a figurehead for fashionable feminists. A walking talking brand in her own right she was even named President of the CFDA in 2006.

AQUARIUS: MARY QUANT

** INNOVATIVE ** REBELLIOUS ** INDIVIDUAL ** LIBERAL ** AWAKENING ** FREE **
Nobody but Aquarius Mary Quant could have invented the mini-skirt, and in doing so single-handedly created a uniform for the 1960s women’s lib movement. Although she always handed the credit to her customers; “It was the girls on the King’s Road who invented the mini. I was making easy, youthful, simple clothes, in which you could move, in which you could run and jump, and we would make them the length the customer wanted. I wore them very short and the customers would say, ‘Shorter, shorter.'”

PISCES: ALEXANDER MCQUEEN

**IMAGINATIVE ** FANTASTICAL ** CREATIVE ** VISIONARY ** OTHERWORLDLY ** MYSTIC **
May we all bow down to the memory of Pisces Alexander McQueen, a true fashion visionary whose beautiful, fantastical creations seemed like they were beamed onto the catwalk from another dimension. Taking skulls and religious iconography as his motifs, his work was entirely impractical, darkend by an obsession with the realm beyond the veil, and utterly, achingly, beautiful.

TAROTSCOPES: FEBRUARY 2014

AQUARIUS – SIX OF WANDS

There is a sense of subtle triumph around you this month, with some little victories due after notable points of stress. My message is to make sure to tune into them – you are quite capable of being a drama queen and focusing your energy on what’s twitching your nerves instead of the sun shining above. I feel that you are in a space of achievement and working your way towards or past a milestone, seeing some calm after the storm. You should be aware by now that you are the one who has created the success you see, and that participating in your life (rather than throwing your hands up and shouting at the Universe) is actually something that creates the change you desire. The mantra that I wrote for your year ahead Tarotscope is ‘Magic surrounds me’ and I feel this is really fitting for now – a call for you to delicately remain in the present moment. Wake up every morning and say this out loud to remind yourself that you are part of a bigger energy that is yours to work with. You love movement to be swift and it’s easy for you to get frustrated when things seem out of your control or, equally, when things feels static. You will always benefit from a ‘surrender’ mindset – purely so you can acknowledge the present moment. It being your birthday month also makes this the perfect time to express gratitude, and I know that you have much to be thankful for. However gratitude isn’t a practice that we should only bring up when we feel abundant, in fact the opposite is most relevant – take on a practice of being thankful when you are within a challenge. This might sound totally crazy, but by always being respectful of your journey you allow the flow to keep on flowing. You are smart enough to know that you will receive the knowledge you desire one day when you look back in retrospect – so do the same thing right now, knowing that any stress you feel is meaningful as part of your bigger journey. There are so many ways that RIGHT NOW can be your teacher. You might be facing a difficult relationship or friendship and thinking ‘who oh why? – and sometimes a person can be in your life just to show you what you won’t be seeking again. Or perhaps their actions has highlighted one of your own fears? Take it all in and continue your own healing from within rather than focusing on passing judgment on the other person. If you feel that your environment is testing you at work, shift your perception by lifting yourself upwards to view the situation as an outsider might. Mercury is soon to go retrograde for most of the month, so don’t sweat the little annoyances in communication breakdowns. Be proud of what you have achieved, and remember that sometimes you have to pat your own self on the back. You’re doing an awesome job, keep on keeping on. Happy Birthday babe.

Have you picked up your year ahead Tarotscope yet?

PISCES – QUEEN OF PENTACLES

How are all the mind expanding experiences going? In January I wanted you to open up to the idea of the world being your own personal playground, but to fulfill our dreams we need to bring them back down to earth. This month, how can your merge the spiritual with the material? While it’s nice to live the among the unicorns and fairies, you are still in a human suit – so how about making the most of this adventure? This is a nurturing journey and I feel excited for you to begin to work in a different way. It might be as simple as taking on a new attitude around your finances – like one that doesn’t involve being afraid of money. We aren’t supposed to be marvelous at everything, so where you feel tested, ask for help. Surprisingly it’s more simple than struggling alone, and whether the advice comes in book or person form, make a shout out and be ready to receive. The beautiful energy surrounding you this month is actually all intuitive and warm, so use this to infuse compassion into every part of life. You have a finely tuned compass in your gut Pisces, so keep listening in and working from that place. A sense of service is always important to you as you like to feel loved and of use, but make sure you don’t over do it and drain that ‘mothering energy’ to the bone. Practice some grounding exercises and overdose a little on sleep. It’s not being lazy, you are recharging – you’ll need the extra energy for your exciting birthday month next month. Organization and a sense of diplomacy are also your best friends this February, and I don’t mean a ‘no pain no gain’ situation, you are purely making your life more awesome by dealing with the details. This isn’t a bore fest either, you are putting some serious L O V E into your life’s work, and you have to love every aspect of your plan for it to be fulfilled. Think SLOW AND STEADY, no need to race off into the wilderness. Even if you get one piece of paperwork filed this month that will be good enough. But do it before Mercury dives into a retrograde next week for most of the rest of this month. Once this happens, I like the idea that you going within. No need to dive into suspicions around others, you know that this kind of thought pattern just sends you to Luna town. How about maintaining that all is as it should be and simply allowing your life to flow. It is possible to take things with a pinch of salt whilst still being active in creating the life you want. Something to think about.

Have you picked up your year ahead Tarotscope yet?

ARIES – TWO OF SWORDS

With a super powered charge into the year you are possibly still caught up in the chaos of a mind that’s been working overtime, and now there’s a need for you to wind down a little in the coming weeks. I will always remind you about not feeling afraid of stillness Aries – you are so used to getting things done your way (i.e. the fast way) that whenever you have to wait for other people to catch up, you feel fire burning the soles of your feet. This month you may encounter a few crossroads, and so allowing yourself to release into the moment is going to really help you out. You may have recently been calling on help from many other people, doing a lot of networking or even starting a new relationship. It’s got to the point where you might be getting confused about which direction to go, or even just trying to work out what you ‘should’ prioritize in that bulging diary. Know that you never need to fear your own decision making process – if you respect that you are always moving forward on a journey, then there are no ‘wrong’ choices. Your only intention has to be to make your foundations as solid as possible so you know that you have a safe place to direct your life from. With Mercury the communicator going retrograde in a few days make sure that you don’t turn minor bumps in the road into a source of drama. If you don’t get a reply to your email instantly – chill! It doesn’t mean that your friend has suddenly ‘gone off’ you or someone hates your idea. Allow everyone – and mainly yourself – some space over the next few weeks and know that that’s okay. If you are feeling impatient with yourself then you must go within and find your unique calm place. You know how to get there, and yes it may be in a yoga class but it equally may be allowing yourself time for dinner with your best girlfriends. You can also look forward to enjoying some relaxation of the sleepy sort. I just have a feeling that all these decisions that seem SO stressful right now will untangle if you allow them to breathe. Step aside from your usual controlling attitude, and have some faith – things are always going to pan out differently than you think in the end. So instead of worrying about the what, why, who and where, get excited about what opportunities there might be outside the ecosystem that you have created. Someone may pleasantly surprise you, so be ready!

Have you picked up your year ahead Tarotscope yet?

TAURUS – ACE OF PENTACLES

All hands back on deck my love; you have big career moves to make this month! You may see some reflection back to October 2013, when you last had this card crop up. I feel the link might bring some action from an idea or intention you planted back then or some return on your investment. January may have been fairly un-eventful, with you shifting priorities and working out what your most pressing needs and desires actually are. Now you have your eyes on the prize you are eager to zoom off to the land of dreams (and money trees). Now, you are going to need to be a bit more flexible with your attitude, but don’t worry this is totally a good thing. If you picked up your 2014 Tarotscope I taught you a lesson on intention, action and surrender. The main point being that you must hand over all your ideas so the Universe can help you shape them. It’s brilliant to make a plan, but if we don’t allow it to expand we can actually be worse off. You have your own sense of flow, but so does everything else, including other people, places and projects. Mercury takes a few weeks of retrograde this month which essentially means that your finely tuned plan could suddenly be all upside down and inside out anyway. Your goal if this happens is to not freak out and instead be psyched about your potential. You have emerged into an energy where you actually know what is needed for you to feel more fulfilled, so trust that this is the truth and keep on moving. This retrograde may also bring you some second chances, which could be another shot at working with that one person you so wanted to, or even just finding an open space to share your ideas, and give them a second chance to take off. Timing is often everything and if there was something that got sidelined at the end of 2013, don’t be afraid of pulling it back out of the bag now. Meanwhile think of this month as a fresh start. You might have got on board with celebrating the Chinese New Year and making NOW the time to bring in change. This card always has a little of the Midas touch and I feel you are supported in more ways than you might realize. Stay at the drawing board, merge magic with the material and always leave space on that canvas for a surprise!

Have you picked up your year ahead Tarotscope yet?

GEMINI – FOUR OF WANDS 

A sharp contrast to last month where you may have been dealt a few harsh lessons from your ego or faced a few of your biggest fears – some in actual physical form. Now you can breathe a sigh of relief, as this month sees a very refreshing energy of expansion and celebration swooping in. Of course you have to go and participate in it though, fun doesn’t always come knocking on our front door (if only it was that easy!) You are feeling creative and will benefit from expressing all of your flitting energy via an artistic outlet, whether it’s actually putting paint to paper or doing some party planning, you’ll enjoy expressing your free spirit. It’s a great month for connecting with people and with Mercury retrograding for most of the month you may find that some of your socializing brings in faces from the past. When peeking behind you just be careful that you aren’t inviting the unhealthy aspects of the past onto your dance card – in contrast be uplifted by faces that you wish you saw a little more often. Same goes for lovers, it’s not time to delve back into a sad, trodden upon affair. Be smart. The energy of this card is carries a high and fresh vibe, and so your health will also benefit from a little shake up of your routine. But don’t try and put some strict, limiting schedule in place, be flexible. Looking after yourself shouldn’t be a source of self-punishment, it should be fun, and tailor made to suit your style. How about experimenting with some different types of exercise? No big deal if you don’t love all of them but it will at least pull you out of any static and restless energy. Same with your diet. Start loosening your grip on that winter carb fest and pull in some high vibe foods – if you’ve had your eye on a juicer for your kitchen at home, then now is the time to invest! The main advice is to just get out of that front door, as staying hidden away at home isn’t going to bring you the opportunities that you desire. This card is social so keep a sense of collaboration in mind – what idea have you got brewing that requires a team, or at least another opinion? Call in the troops and brainstorm it up – but then have a fun dinner together after, always maintaining a sense of balance. If you go into workaholic mode, you’ll burn out very quickly. A final thought – what isn’t working right now? And how can you get in there and bring back some order and balance? It is possible, promise.

Have you picked up your year ahead Tarotscope yet?

CANCER – JUSTICE

In January I asked you to click the reset button and get up and tackle your world with new eyes, and as we merge into a new month you are back to redressing the balance in your life. This could find you going back inwards for a little while, but with intention. I’m not championing that you hide away. Instead, use this time to regain a sense of order. The Justice card can be pretty stern and pull out all sorts of uncomfortable feelings from within, but don’t be afraid of your emotions – what comes up will be for you to release or heal from, and as a water sign you must learn to be at home with the element. Feelings and intuition are actually yours to use as your superpowers, if you wish. There is a little karmic vibe going on this month too – bearing in mind I like to use the word karma loosely. I feel it’s too often used as a way of being passive aggressive, as in ‘they’ll get what’s coming to them’ – instead think of it as a subtle balancing of the scales, a process you can actively participate in. Don’t be a victim – choose to address areas that feel lacking by remembering your own personal power and getting back in the driving seat. Occasionally the Universe can be a tough teacher, so never forget that your ride is taking you somewhere. You can also think of this energy as the time to plant positive seeds and I feel you have some master plans about ready to take off, so getting the paperwork in order is encouraged. Mercury goes retro on February 6th until the 28th so perhaps avoid any major moves in that time, but there’s no reason you can’t fluff up your feathers and get the show ready for the road right? How about making some plans that you can put into action come March? I feel that this is a positive month for you and that there’s plenty of strength is behind you, so don’t be afraid of perhaps a slightly unusual ‘ball busting’ energy coming in – it’s good for you to find your centre. It’s no time to go scuba diving into the depths of worry and anxiety, just take a subtle retreat into your shell any time that you need to tune back in. Of course when discussing balance it’s always worth checking in with your health and routines, and as much as you must make time to look after yourself it’s also worth checking that you have an equal amount of what I like to call ‘human fun’ – get out and be light, laugh, smile, love.

Have you picked up your year ahead Tarotscope yet?

LEO – PRINCE OF SWORDS

Hold off on charging into the unknown just yet. Though you feel happy to have a little confidence back after a quiver at the start of the year, you will benefit from taking advice from your earth bound friends this month – step by step. Don’t get me wrong – I’m not questioning your action plan, it’s great! And this card is active, but there is a difference between being moving forward and being reckless. You might be so excited about sharing something that you just want to blurt it all out or press send like, right NOW. Take a breather and think about how much better it will be if you pause for a moment and actually do some constructive planning. Your ideas will also be so much more appreciated delivered with some extra depth. Mercury the communicator is retrograde starting on the 6th for a few weeks, so again it’s a time where signing contracts isn’t advised, mainly due to the chance for mistakes and changes needing to be made. Instead, use the finer aspects of this card to your advantage – it is gifting you the ability to reflect and gain insights. This may come up regarding our love life where you are trying to make sense of recent affairs or situations – what do they mean? You’re actually the one with the answers – never forget that – even if you do have to shove your ego into the background and face your loving intuition along with some home truths, in the best way of course. Take an honest look at yourself and see what works and doesn’t work for you, as well as how you want to better the tools you have. You have a healing energy at your fingertips this month so use it for some self development. It certainly wouldn’t be a bad time to have a coaching session or check in for a heart-to-heart with a trusted friend. It’s a thoughtful month ahead, and possibly quite intense, but I know you aren’t afraid of that. Feeling bored? Get that energy out in a positive way, rather than with a sense of chaos. Moving – running, boxing, dancing – always helps calm your nerves in a health boosting way, and even journaling might appeal to you this month. Try letting the contents of your mind flow out onto paper and see what comes up. It’s entirely possible that you might surprise yourself with a stream of unexpected insights – even more fuel to put into your passions. Finally, and only once you feel honed and tuned, you’ll know when it’s time to move ahead.

Have you picked up your year ahead Tarotscope yet?

VIRGO – TEN OF CUPS

Hey love bug, you can go all out on the gratitude this month as you are basically a walking Valentine to the Universe! I suggested you start off the year by easing your way in as I know it’s going to be a big one and you can still be chill this month – far from static though. Don’t worry, you can still focus, organize and do all that Virgo stuff you love to do. The aim of the game is to make LOVE be your biggest mentor, and the thing you call upon in any sticky situations. Mercury goes retrograde this week for most of the month and that’s an even bigger reason to be in the love zone rather than reverting to outdated dramatic thought processes. We really can’t complain with this card though, you might feel like you’re bursting with joy at times, so it’s always the right time to overflow on gratitude. You might feel that you only have one person in your life that makes the days less dull, but that’s enough – thank and celebrate them. Send sweet love notes to all your favourite friends – or even your dog or you cat! Sorry I’m on soppy love overdrive, you can be sweet in your own cool way of course 😉 It’s also a great month for dating, of course, and you may even find an old flame comes back and that this time it actually works out. Go with your gut though, a red flag is a red flag ok – you know what I mean! Even better get out and about and socialize, meet new people – but think high vibe interactions only! Also, while the Universe has got your back like this, dig out that huge list of wishes you crafted out for 2014. Now is the time to set sail to them, and then just get on with your day. With this backing from spirit you can also fall a little deeper into your spiritual practice. You might want to seek a coach or healer to help you break through an old habit that is so out of date that it’s become boring – just one more shift could be all it takes to excavate it forever. Or else let your friends be your healers, as you gather together for a release and strengthen ritual and think Power Posse. Finally thread all this advice into your health and wellness zone too, boost up on your super foods and vitamin regime, especially if you have any travelling coming up. It’s as simple as thinking ahead, and then feeling smug whilst riding high on a revamped energy buzz.

Have you picked up your year ahead Tarotscope yet?

LIBRA – NINE OF CUPS

I’m happy to let you lap up some water energy this month and hopefully enjoy the fruits of your recent labors. Widely known as the ‘wish card’ the Nine of Cups shows you in a prime spot for manifesting all you desire – so let’s get to it! The biggest tip I can give you is to not be controlling about your goals, you do not have to think up everything you want and then pop a jar over it and stand there staring. That’s like clipping the wings of a butterfly. You must allow fluidity into all that you wish for and accept that it will very likely arrive in a different form to what you expected. With this energy though, watch your thoughts and be careful what you wish for. Don’t fixate on wanting what someone else wants, which is a redundant way of thinking. Keep your eyes on your prize and avoid them turning green. What do you really want and what are your ultimate dreams? It’s okay to be thinking big this month (actually I always support big thinking) but think unique, celebrate all that is you and you alone. Your purpose will always be illuminated by celebrating your passion, so go ahead and dive in. With Mercury going retrograde for a few weeks this month you may see changes and what you perceive to be ‘blockages’ cropping up. However if you go with the fluidity I mentioned, this energy should totally work in your favour! Embrace the twists and turns and get excited about the unknown. In other words, dive deep. You also have a sweet support from loved ones this month, so if you don’t feel it then get out there and say hello to your tribe. No one will know that you need them if you don’t pop up and utter a little ‘help’ now and then. Grab some friends and work on your vision boards, then say a little prayer to give up your wishes to a bigger energy, handing it up to the stars above. Meanwhile, embrace this watery and intuitive vibe by going with the good times, think expansion and fun – get out into the world and enjoy it, especially anything that feels a little unusual for you. Don’t worry about creating a new routine, your destiny is yours to carve after all. Design your own energy in order to see the world through a filter that works to support your dreams. Run free, baby!

Have you picked up your year ahead Tarotscope yet?

SCORPIO – THE SUN

Oh hey there roadrunner! You may actually be feeling run ragged from having all eyes on those stars, and it certainly wasn’t a bad start to the year – quite the opposite in fact – but oh boy, are you ready for a break. I loved turning over this card (and whispering a silent ‘yes’ to myself as if it was giving me the green light to a month long break in the Caribbean) because it’s such a swift kick in the ass from the Universe to say – “it’s okay to have some fun babe”. Seriously, this is the joy card, representing the mega burning bright shining inner child of love and sweetness. So give yourself a pat on the back for the fact you’ve done about three months work in three weeks…and pause. Remember that joy can be found within a single moment and, like happiness, is not a destination. So find your surrender in every moment, and remember  you don’t have to take an actual vacation to just breathe. You probably do have your eyes on the sun though, and all that is warm – especially if you are locked up in a freeze zone right now. For now though focus on the warmth that you can create yourself (and stock up on vitamin D as an added bonus). Gather with your nearest and dearest and celebrate your connection to those who always lift your spirits. If you are feeling a little burned out then it might just be one person that you need to call for a boost, even a simple ‘It’s ok, I love you’ will do the trick, and never forget that beyond the walls of chez Scorpio there is an army of support for you. Mercury is retrograde most of this month, and as much as I know you are above falling for it’s bells and whistles, as a tip, just remember not to be freaked out if plans insist on changing. Instead, embrace their flow and enjoy the surprising winks from the Universe. Since it’s not the greatest time for contract signing, just keep on with your planning and scheduling. How about taking meetings out of your office to your favourite restaurants or to a park you love? If you open up the physical space around your ideas, then your projects will have more energy to grow and expand. Finally, keep at it with your current health plan, or get tuned back into what your body needs if you aren’t feeling great. You know better than anyone what works for your mind-body-spirit, so keep honoring it and know that it is a unique journey. I love you.

Have you picked up your year ahead Tarotscope yet?

SAGITTARIUS – WHEEL OF FORTUNE

When I wrote the 2014 mantra for Sagittarius it was absolutely about everything that this card brings. “Destiny is your partner in crime” – in other words, your life is yours to work with, so don’t fall by the wayside. It’s always good for you to remember a surrender practice, especially this month with Mercury going retrograde and threatening to chop and change all of your precious plans. Oh what the heck, who cares, you love the ride! Dive in. The wheel is turning, and so you may as well join the party. Life may well go on without you, but yours may be a little gloomy if you don’t sidle up to the roulette table. So, what IS the plan? Well I feel that you really just need get involved and be curious with all that you have. To start with, a little bit of shuffling and rejigging of your own inner guidance system can’t serve you wrong. We all need a little retune now and again in order to be able to make that list of ‘what do I really want’. You may have found that the last couple of weeks felt quite speedy, and so it makes sense that there are things to pick apart. I don’t want to be all ‘mysterious’ with you, I just want you to be the one who decides which patterns you are going to break. If today – and every day – was the start of a new cycle, then what’s going and what’s staying? I want you to give yourself a boost of courage and self-confidence to realize that you can use your inner drama queen to craft you out a no-fail plan for success. You have the keys to the prize, where are they? Health wise it’s a great time for a cleanse and clean up, whether that’s a night in a swanky spa, a one day juice cleanse or even just being more mindful about what goes in your shopping basket. Be kind to your body. I spoke last month about how the Sag energy is still pretty watery, to be aware that a few added ‘feelings’ are probably always going to be in the background, and that it’s going to be a work in progress to dealing with them. With the Mercury retro in action just make sure to calm the fire-spitting – no need to throw out fireballs when you have a moment of sensitivity. It’s okay to be vulnerable. Oh yes, it February and I haven’t mentioned anything about love. Okay, one piece of advice – don’t turn that wheel of fortune backwards, old, overdone affairs are so last year. Onwards and upwards.

Have you picked up your year ahead Tarotscope yet?

CAPRICORN – TWO OF WANDS

I said you had some healing to do in January, but I bet you went and over worked didn’t you? At least this month’s energy is a little more mellow, so that hard taskmaster you’ve been dealing with can give you a break to stabilize a little. This month shouldn’t feel quite so much like climbing a hill with no grips on your soles. I don’t exactly want to tear you away from your desk, because you’re still on top form with all sorts to achieve, but I do want you to expand your thoughts and loosen your grip a little. It’s a prime time for collaborating and merging your ideas with another, so it could be a fun time to get creative and share some brainstorming or dream casting with a friend or trusted colleague. Remind yourself of your ‘ideal day’ and allow yourself to get back into manifestation mode. The energy is all about honing your passions, and with this month’s Mercury retrograde period perhaps you could use it to help you out, by setting sail to a project you abandoned during the chaos at the end of last year? I’d rather talk about the fun aspect of this month though, as this is a lovely energy for romance and friendship. You will benefit from going back to basics and enjoying your loved ones for the intelligent conversation you share and those things you have in common. Date nights should all be about expanding together, learning and sharing ideas, even getting out of your comfort zone – after all, isn’t this what the best relationships are about? This goes for friendships too – you want your energy to be uplifted by others not cramped, so make sure you do a shuffle and only hang out with those on your wavelength. It’s a waste to give your time to situations that turn you moody and make you feel static. Finally, this is a wonderfully energizing energy so get back to your favorite spin class or take regular hikes, you will definitely feel alive when in the outdoors or working up a sweat. Equally, it could be a great month for cleansing – think cayenne pepper and lemon juice to kick start your day. I want you to keep your attitude positive, even if you’re so tired from the last few months. It’s just a question of diligently tapping away to hone your life to how you want it to be. Contemplate, plan and surrender. Your positive mantra to work with this month – ‘My World is what I make it.’

Have you picked up your year ahead Tarotscope yet?

Cast by Louise Androlia using the Cosmic Tarot Deck.
@Louniverse

2014: THE HORSE VS. THE SEVEN UNIVERSAL YEAR

Today’s Aquarius new moon marks the Chinese New Year of the Horse. What kind of energy will this usher in for 2014? And how will this vibe with the numerological Seven Universal Year? Astro Style’s Ophira Edut and Practical Numerologist Felicia Bender weigh in…

Image: Truong Buugiam’s Seven Horses

Saddle up! The lively Chinese Year of the Horse is upon us, and the message from the cosmos is to get ready for ACTION. Energetic and frenetic, the Horse year is a big departure from 2013′s internal, and sometimes insidious, Year of the Snake (think about Sagittarius versus Scorpio energy).

Last year was all about transformation and exploring the inner landscape. And now that we’ve shed all that skin and shape-shifted into wiser, worldlier versions of ourselves, it’s time to share this with the world, loud and proud.

This year brings us the Wood Horse, which is said to be the tamest of the five elemental Horses (the others are fire, earth water and metal). While there may be an overall vibe of stubborn determination in the air, it will be milder than in other Horse years (think back to 2002, year of the sociable water Horse, and what was going on for you then). The last Wood Horse year was 1954, while anybody born in Horse years 1966, 1978, 1990 and 2002, can look forward to a twelve months of good fortune and new beginnings. The Horse year is also said to be good for travel, the global economy and romance.

Here, a few tips for staying in the saddle in the months to come:

EMBRACE FREEDOM
Throughout 2013, ‘control’ was a dominant theme with the cunning Snake at the helm. Now, the unbridled Horse year invites us into wide-open spaces and new terrains. Explore as widely as you can, and extricate yourself from arrangements that feel too confining. Couples or business partners dealing with jealousy, trust issues and possessiveness will need to overhaul the relationship to survive this cycle. During a Horse year, we are especially sensitive to people crushing our spirits and trying to rein us in. Let creativity be your compass.

KEEP YOUR HOOVES MOVING
If you sat lotus or played armchair philosopher all the way through 2013′s serene Snake year, you may be all the more enlightened for it. But now it’s time to emerge from that sheltering cocoon and DO something. Apply all your newfound insights to a tangible project. Put your talents on display. Spread the word about what you’re up to instead of jealously guarding every idea. In a Horse year, you need to act quickly and decisively. However, you’ll have to walk a fine line not to act rashly. When in doubt, feel it out—a little crowdsourcing or opinion never hurts. Horses are collaborative animals, and teamwork makes the dream work.

KNOW WHEN TO SAY “NAY” AND WHEN TO MAKE HAY
It can be easy to feel scattered during a Horse year. Yes, we just told you to keep moving, but you don’t want to gallop too far off the trail either. With so many ideas and exciting offers, it’s tempting to race off at the sound of every starting gun. During a feisty and restless Horse year, we need to pay extra attention to the due diligence that we’d rather just skip over. The Year of the Horse may be great for getting us into action…but what are we acting on, exactly? Discipline yourself to plan, research and prepare. Work with an expert. Hire a coach or a mentor, especially if you’ve got flashy ideas but your skills are a little rusty. Behind every winning horse, after all, is a masterful trainer. Before the big event, you must practice, practice, practice, and learn to trot before you can gallop.

GROOM THYSELF
Vanity is a hallmark of the proud horse, so pay extra attention to your appearance and don’t be shy about spending a little extra in the salon. With Jupiter moving into theatrical Leo for a whole year on July 16, the second half of the Horse year should produce some interesting looks on the SS15 runways. The 1990 Horse year was the year we discovered Kate Moss, when she appeared for this amazing shoot in cult Style magazine The Face, and the year grunge culture spawned a whole new way of looking at fashion. If you’re decorating or entertaining, aim for cheerful and bright colors, minimal clutter and an arrangement conducive to spirited conversation. Oh, and make sure the sofas can be pushed aside for an impromptu dance party. Your gatherings could also give way to a few love matches or serendipitous business connections, and whenever you attend a party, always dress well and have your business cards at the ready.

DON’T GET FOOLED BY THE “SHOW PONIES”
While the Snake year was an introvert’s paradise, the Year of the Horse is tailor-made for extroverts. This means we can expect lively conversations but also a lot of big talkers and inflated promises (or “sparkle ponies,” as we like to call them). Enjoy these characters for their entertainment value, but know that they might not be able to deliver much more than a good show. On the flipside, check your own ego at the door. Pride can be a stumbling block during the Year of the Horse. People will insist that they’re right even when it’s obvious they’re actually digging themselves deeper into a pile of horses**t. Others will insist on doing things THEIR way, even when it’s the hard way. If you catch yourself caught up in such an act, pull in the reins and check yourself before you stampede over your own success.

Get the scoop on 2014 with The AstroTwins’ 2014 Planetary Planner, an extensive ebook with predictions for every zodiac sign. Enter the code ‘numinous’ for an exclusive 30% discount.
@AstroTwins

THE HORSE VS THE UNIVERSAL SEVEN YEAR 

Now look before you leap… Image: Ryan McGinley

As we often find in life, the Year of the Horse and the Seven Universal Year appear to offer us a clash of energies in 2014. And yes, these energies have the power to both compliment and complicate our lives this year.  How so?  If the Year of the Horse is a “gitty-up” year, full of action-oriented energies, then the Seven Universal Year allows us the space for introspection which will help us assimilate all that’s taking place on a soul level.

This will involve some “parallel play” – meaning your focus will shift from outside influences (the rip-roaring, get-out-there-and-DO-IT energy of the Horse) to what’s going on inside (the energy of the Seven Personal Year).  As long as you’re aware of this duality, you can really tap into the power of this dichotomy.

Also understand that while the Seven Universal Year indicates a more reserved and contemplative energy, it doesn’t mean that you’ll suddenly find yourself dropping everything and crawling into a cave.  Your world will move at its usual pace – and yet on the inside you’ll be able to process what’s going on at a deep and profound level. The Year of the Horse will provide you with ample opportunity to truly question who you are in a raw and authentic way.

Let’s say you land a new job offer (active, Horse energy). This year you actually get to decide if it’s speaking to your true self, the passionate you. Is it reflective of your authentic life purpose?  You might be more likely to decline the offer on these grounds this year, rather than jump on it because it’s offering you a hefty raise. Just one example of how these two seemingly conflicting energies will work in tandem with each other to make 2014 a red-letter year for your personal evolution, both in the material and spiritual worlds.

For the full lowdown on what the Seven Universal Year means for YOU click here.

But how can we all optimize our successes and find satisfaction in this Seven year?

Some DOs and DON’Ts for 2014:

DO understand that this is a year that you get a Free Pass to contemplate your own navel.

DO anything that relates to spiritual growth, including (but not limited to) taking a retreat, reading (and reading some more), taking classes that are job related or spiritually minded (or both), and saying yes any opportunity to expand your sense of your authentic self.

DO take the extra time and energy to take care of your health. This can mean scheduling an outstanding surgery, going to the dentist for the first time in hoever long, or starting a new exercise routine or nutritional program. It’s a great year to practice meditation.

DON’T hit the ground running and think that 2014 is the year to launch your new business or take on lots of extra hours at the office. If you do, you’ll feel as though you’re hitting your head against a brick wall. Wait until next year (2015) to pump up your business life. This year: gathering knowledge. Next year: implementation.

DON’T ignore anything emotional that comes up for you this year. If you face down your feelings in a fume of denial, you’ll have missed out on exponential personal growth.

DON’T dig your heels in and resist the call to expand yourself. If you do, you’ll win a Victim of the Year Award for 2014. And you’ll deserve it.

Felicia Bender is The Practical Numeroligist.
@FeliciaBender1

NEW YEAR, NU YOU: RESOLUTIONS FOR YOUR SIGN

A new year might just be another pinprick in the infinite now, but still, it brings with it the energy of change and transformation. What will this mean for you in 2014? The Astro Twins look at how the planets have been shaping our resolutions, and how your sign can be a better, more brilliant person in the year to come.

Ready, set, goal! The first day of 2014 featured a new moon in driven Capricorn, the master strategist sign. Before the champagne flutes have been emptied and the calendar pages turned, many of us will have already set our sights set on a major milestone or two. Amplifying the future-focused effect, the Sun, communication planet Mercury, romantic Venus and penetrating Pluto are also circulating through Capricorn. There’s nothing light or casual about the dreams we’re weaving for 2014. But watch out: lest we become too ruthless about it, there’s a cosmic intervention from fiery Mars in Libra, which will form a tense square (90-degree angle) to the new moon and heavy-hitting Pluto. Libra is the sign of relationships, so perhaps Mars is sounding the alarm—don’t steamroll others in your quest for your holy grail.

Looking for a deadline for your dream casting? Mark your calendar for July 12, 2014, when a Capricorn full moon will bring the seeds you’re planting as the year opens to fruition or a turning point.

FIRE. Image: Matt Malloy (via @Liberatum)

ARIES
With the new moon in your tenth house of career and long-term goals, you’ve had your eyes on the corner office, a lifetime achievement award or a prestigious coup in the year to come. You want 2014 to be about recognition for your hard work, to be known as an expert or leader in your field. And why shouldn’t you? But Mars in your partnership house reminds you that behind every star is a best supporting cast mate. Your lesson this year? Don’t let naked ambition overshadow that devoted person who’s been the wind beneath your gossamer wings. Resolve to make room in the spotlight for two.
Your resolution style: Your hotheaded approach means you’re first out of the gate when it comes to stating your intent for the year ahead, but with so much fire-starter energy at play your good intentions can quickly run out of steam. Try to accept that you can’t manifest everything overnight, keep focused on your long-term goals and success will be yours.

TAURUS
Practicality? Bah humbug. Yesterday’s new moon illuminated your expansive ninth house, giving you a thirst for adventure and new horizons in the year to come. Travel, publishing or study will appeal to you more than security for once in 2014. But stressful Mars in your detail-driven sixth house reminds you not to throw ALL caution to the winter winds while you’re mapping out our hopes and dreams for the year to come. There are administrative details to address before you pack your carry-on and race off for a standby flight to Burma. The cosmos is urging you to take a leap of faith…but pack your parachute!
Your resolution style: The best things come to those who wait, right Taurus? Slow to embrace change, world domination is all about the long game to you. On the flipside, it can be hard for you to shift negative habits – the key is to focus on creating healthy new ones instead.

GEMINI
Peel and reveal. With the new moon having shone a light on your eighth house of intimacy, as 2014 begins you’re dissolving false layers and delving into the deeper realms of emotion and spirit. The eighth house is all about merging, so you could have set your sights on an engagement, a pregnancy, a joint financial venture or something else entwining for the year to come. But knock knock, Gemini: are you getting lost in that cozy cocoon a deux? Mars in your playful fifth house reminds you not to get SO caught up in your private world this year that you stop expressing yourself. How boring the world would be if Geminis went radio silent. Speak up—the world needs to hear your novel ideas this year, too!
Your resolution style: Your variety-seeking nature means you’ve no doubt started the year with a to-improve list as long as your arm – you’re open to every idea the cosmos has to throw at you! But this scattergun approach can be your downfall. Instead, try to focus on one or two big shifts you truly want to affect this year.

WATER. Image: Pietro Canali (via @Liberatum)

CANCER
Make it a double. The Capricorn new moon opened the year with a pileup in your relationship house, which has you thinking in twosome terms. Your plans for 2014 center around collaborations, for business or love, and you’re ready to make it official. Or, you might be particularly pressed to create goals that mesh with those of your mate. But red-hot Mars in your fourth house of home, family and emotional foundations waves its flag. You can’t take care of everyone else if you don’t nurture yourself. Some Cancers might even feel a twinge of baby fever, while your partner is less keen on the stork stopping by. Stand up for what YOU want in 2014, too, Cancer.
Your resolution style: Your personal goals are often ruled by your emotions – which, of course, can change overnight. What felt like exactly the fresh start you needed yesterday, could be totally off today. So try a more practical approach instead, and focus on the external things that could change your life for the better.

LEO
With yesterday’s Capricorn new moon in your health and organization house, you were no doubt up early on New Year’s Day, ready to hit the gym, de-clutter your entire house or tackle some other narrowly-focused goal. In fact, you may be all business this year, with your sights set on exactly what you want. But while precision is important when you’re trying to manifest, don’t forget to let the universe be your co-pilot. Mars in your third house of kindred spirits and communication reminds you to step back and let others play a hand, too. Instead of trying to control situations in the year to come, or do it all yourself, open a dialogue and even team up. Just because you CAN do it all alone, doesn’t mean you should.
Your resolution style: All change! Big and dramatic is the way you do everything in life, including your approach to personal development. Your heart is in every promise you make yourself about the year to come – but the only way you’ll stick to your guns is by keeping it light, and bringing a healthy dose of playfulness to proceedings.

VIRGO
Express yourself! The new moon in your outspoken and passionate fifth house has gifted you with a playful and dramatic flair as the year begins. Will 2014 be the year you step into the spotlight and let your dazzling personality take center stage? Virgos get a bad rap as being boring pencil pushers, but your natural wit means can actually be quite hilarious. What else could be in store for 2014? Romantic adventures, a creative renaissance and more fun. Just watch your budget. With aggro Mars in your money and work sector, duty won’t just drunk-dial you…it will blow up your phone. Make this your priority as you map out the year ahead, even as you let yourself be spontaneous.
Your resolution style: You always have a plan, don’t you Virgo? Resolving to make things better comes as naturally as breathing to your analytical sign, but this can also manifest as undue anxiety about the future. Instead, try focusing on how you’d like to transform your world one day at a time.

AIR. Image: Alexandre Buisse (via @Liberatum)

LIBRA
In the mood for nesting, anyone? The Capricorn new moon in your fourth house of home and family opened the year with a cozy and domestic vibe. Your resolutions for 2014 might center around family, babies, self-care and creating more security overall. You might even search for a snug retreat to call home. But before you zip up that onesie and bid the outside world goodbye, check your priorities. Go-getter Mars is in Libra until July 25, reminding you that you’ve got a big public role to play in the year to come. Resolves to nurture yourself and your loved ones, but not at the expense of your star power.
Your resolution style: You live a fairly balanced life Libra, and don’t really vibe with the all-or-nothing energy that can surround resolutions season. But sometimes we need to take a stand if we want to evolve. If this is you, try not to let the opinions of others sway you from the path you know is best for you.

SCORPIO
You’ve got a lot to say about 2014, Scorpio, thanks to yesterday’s Capricorn new moon in your third house of communication and ideas. In fact, you your head (not to mention your inbox) could be spinning with all the ideas you have cooking for the year ahead. Just don’t forget to carve out room for rest and healing. With Mars in your sleepy twelfth house of closure, you’ll also need to honor your limits and set healthy boundaries with all the colorful (but sometimes exhausting) people you’ll meet. It never hurts to check references, too, as there could be a couple of flaky or even shady ones in the bunch. Resolve to screen ‘em carefully before inviting anyone new into your private life this year.
Your resolution style: When you decide to do something, it can quickly become your latest obsession. Great for sticking with the program, but perhaps not always the healthiest approach? To keep things in perspective, try giving yourself a cut off point to take a step back and see where you’re at.

SAGITTARIUS

The year began with a Capricorn new moon in your second house of work, money and stability. You may be the zodiac’s adventurer, but it looks like this year’s goals will center on financial security. You want to build a nest egg, simplify your schedule and prioritize. Indeed, that will line the path to a more predictable life, which (perhaps for the first time ever) sounds pretty enticing. You’re also eager to regain any lost confidence, and this new moon sees you remembering your value. Just don’t get so mired in the day-to-day that you stop dreaming in 2014. With Mars in your visionary and free-spirited eleventh house, you need to plant one foot in the present while the other dips a toe in unchartered waters.
Your resolution style: Why would you not succeed in bringing about the life changes you desire? Full of optimism, you’re the master of positive intentions – but don’t forget, you need to back this up with some hard graft too. Stay enthusiastic by continually seeking to learn more about whatever it is you’re ushering in.

EARTH. Image: Xiao Yang (via @Liberatum)

CAPRICORN
Take the crown, Capricorn—2014 belongs to you! With a new moon and a planetary powwow in your sign as the year begins, it’s time to put your personal goals and agenda center stage. The stars align for you to put yourself first, and don’t you dare feel guilty about that either, o’ dutiful one. But alas, as you enjoy a more “carpe diem” vibe, you’ll still need to attend to your responsibilities. Go-getter Mars in your house of career and long-term goals could turn the spotlight on your professional life. Just don’t slip into total “company man” mode. Aim for that brass ring or coveted title, but this year’s theme is to step into being the star player, not just the dutiful soldier.
Your resolution style: No stranger to structure, your hardworking approach means “resolve” might as well be your middle name. Yes, discipline you can do – sometimes to extremes. Try to let yourself off the hook a little if you slip up. You’re only human, after all.

AQUARIUS
A mystical and healing year is in store, as the January 1 new moon lit up your twelfth house of the subconscious, creativity and closure. A good part of your work in 2014 will be letting go of limiting beliefs, toxic influences and shabby or shopworn parts of your life that no longer serve you. This could be the year you visit an ashram, or just enjoy more solitude at home. But don’t disappear into your bubble. With motivator Mars in your ninth house of travel, adventure and learning, you are being urged to maintain contact with the wider world—and the curious part of yourself. In between holing up in the studio or tending to the needs of loved ones, plot some mind expanding getaways for the year to come.
Your resolution style: You’re always full of ideas about the changes you want to manifest, some of which can be fairy radical. Finding a group of like-minded individuals with whom to map uncharted territory will be key to your success – just don’t go zooming way of piste for the sake of being different.

PISCES
The more the merrier: that’s your mantra for 2014. With yesterday’s Capricorn new moon lighting your social eleventh house, the New Year smells like team spirit. Look for ways you can join forces with avant-garde thinkers now, both in person and virtually since technology is highlighted, too. The cucumber-cool eleventh house also helps you detach from drama, rather than getting sucked into its quicksand. Sound familiar, Pisces? You will also feel the urge to take a break from the crowds (and social media) to reconnect with your spirit in 2014. Is there a retreat that’s got your name on it? Mars in your intense and inward eighth house warns that you’ll need regular escapes to detox from the intensity of the year to come.
Your resolution style: You let your intuition be your guide when it comes to mapping the course ahead, and vision boards might as well have been invented for your creative sign. Which all looks great in your mind’s eye – but remember you have to put the peddle to the metal and knuckle down to actively making things happen sometimes too.

For an in-depth look at what 2014 will hold for your zodiac sign, download The AstroTwins’ 2014 Planetary Planner. Use the code ‘numinous’ for 15% off your purchase.

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@AstroTwins

TAROTSCOPES: JANUARY 2014

CAPRICORN – STRENGTH

Happy Birthday Capricorn! We kick off this new calendar year with a good old dose of healing. I feel that you might need it – in fact I’m encouraging you to prolong your holiday into January if at all possible, or at least stay with the theme of relaxation. The Strength card does bring you strength, yes, but it’s about the strength you have is within, which gives the ability to heal yourself and to calm your own ego. If you look at the imagery in the classic Rider Waite deck, you can see the angel slowly and gently closing the mouth of the Lion, who succumbs and allows this to happen. The scene is serene and the skies clear, giving a wonderful example of our ability to work on releasing our own fears. The infinity symbol above the angel’s head is mirrored in the Magician card, reminding us of our life force and that we have all the tools we need within. Now you aren’t always typically the ‘go within’ type, often choosing instead to thrash things out in your head or try and practically tackle your challenges like breaking a puzzle. This type of healing though really does require you to dive a little bit deeper. In order to tame your ego mind, first you must recognize it – so listen for the shouting voice that chatters in your headspace, the voice that will speak negatively and tell you that you can’t do things or aren’t good enough. It’s loud and probably very familiar. Your intuitive mind is more loving and nurturing, and is expressed as the voice that will tell you home truths without pulling you down. In simple terms, your intuition is Love and the ego is Fear. Your goal now is to let the voice of Love become louder, by choosing to channel your energy and thoughts from a positive mindset. It can be hard to do this when you feel drained, which I think some of you sure are, but know that it will lead you to a higher place. Start this year off with the intention to go beyond your fears. You don’t need to bring them with you, but you do need loving care. If you are able to have a little extra time to yourself this month then spend it giving to yourself and others, as you also have the ability to heal yourself via healing others. Recognize that every person is a mirror for you, and that perhaps the advice you like dishing out needs to come back home? Go and get a massage, try a new type of energy healer of even just spend a day on the sofa (with your laptop OFF, okay!) and think of January as a month to recalibrate so that you can return to your glorious powerful form in the months ahead.

I’ve just completed your in depth look at 2014 – Read your year ahead Tarotscope here!

AQUARIUS – FIVE OF SWORDS

I always see this card being like the game of pick up sticks – The Five of Swords represents a piecing back together of the self, a self that has been scattered. I suggested you went on a bit of a journey at the end of the year to really reshuffle your morals and beliefs and perhaps get some external guidance. Did you? It makes sense that this card follows on from that theme, as now you need to recalibrate and start out afresh with a new and clearer mindset. The Swords are the Air element, which of course is no stranger to you, but saying that, Air energy can be your help and your hindrance. I want to remind you that you are the one in charge of your thoughts – even though a situation or challenge can create a certain feeling within you – and it is still totally up to you how you choose to perceive it. Try not to see everything as an attack on you, step outside the situation and be realistic. This card will always advise you to pick your battles carefully and I feel that is important advice for you. Do you sometimes find yourself kicking off a conversation by moaning about something from your day? Think about the energy around you and make a big choice to focus on a positive aspect rather than go straight for the negative. It might be that there are a host of stress factors around you – possibly due to challenges in the workplace or a set of friends with a LOT to gossip about. I want you to weigh up and pros and cons of bothering to get involved or let it affect you. Sometimes it can really help to just remind ourselves that stress is a day-to-day occurrence and that it will always dissipate. We don’t need to jump into the fray and go to town with it. I would rather your focus go on getting your energy back in one piece as you to bring some kindness and grounding back into your life. With this card present you may feel very floaty and ‘lost in space’. Check in with the Earth element by eating foods that grow in the earth, as well as less sugar and more water. Go for a long walk or run and stamp your feet, visualizing roots coming out of you and anchoring you to the center of the earth. When dealing with situations that are making your head ache, you must work with compassion rather than anger. Yes it can be so easy to just want to shout back and throw fire balls at what’s bothering you, but it won’t help you in the long run. In fact it will cause you more stress! Try and be compassionate where you feel conflict, which I know can be hard but boy does it work. It’s time to check back in with your life and be present!

I’ve just completed your in depth look at 2014 – Read your year ahead Tarotscope here!

PISCES – THREE OF WANDS

I feel so happy to draw one of my favorite cards in the deck for you my fishy friend, as I know you went on quite a journey last year. Now, the Three of Wands represents a different kind of expedition, one of adventure and positivity. I love this card because I see the figure looking out to the distance and the world is his oyster. The Threes speak of collaborating and expansion and paired with the Wands – our Fire element – this represents a massive boost for your creative talents. The Two of Wands before this shows you contemplating putting things out to the world and this is the moment when you start to see something coming back in. It might be that at the end of the year you started making plans, and that January is when you get to see some ships roll in. You still have to maintain focus though. You can be prone to shaking your fist at the Universe for giving you trouble whilst you sit back and refuse to participate in your own life. This card holds a very positive vision for the future, but it’s about how you choose to look at it. You want to be prepared for twists and turns in your plot and open to the fact that things will change, uncertainty is certain after all! The Three of Wands offers you the gift to receive more opportunities the more you can surrender to letting your life flow. There is a call for you to act fearlessly and see this month as a time of growth. If we go about our day-to-day lives with the knowledge that we are on a journey, then it all makes a lot more sense. You may be physically travelling this month – either back home after the holidays or setting off on a grand adventure. This is again your chance to look at your life as an educational experience, know that you are about to get schooled in a whole new set of possibilities. Think excitement and expansion of your horizons. Keeping yourself in a box is like putting on a blindfold. I want you to commit to change and a new attitude. Along the month you may have opportunities to collaborate creatively with others, and this is going to be really beneficial for you. Again keep your mind open because you may find help in extraordinary places. Swim freely Pisces.

I’ve just completed your in depth look at 2014 – Read your year ahead Tarotscope here!

ARIES – ACE OF PENTACLES

Of course this card has come up for you Aries! You have probably been dying to get back to your office after the holidays because you have 101 ideas to bring action to. Okay fine, you can do it, because now you have an Ace of Pentacles in your hand – and the Universe is bestowing on you a whole host of new ideas and opportunities for your working month ahead. The Aces always represent the beginning of a new cycle, so you might be really figuring out how to step up a level and push your project a little bit more towards the golden glow of success. You totally have the ability to gain new insights this month and have a glimpse at future success whilst you’re at it. It is a positive month for you to throw something new into the pot. You might be blasting out some new articles on your blog or starting a new job. This is definitely a card for the independent characters among you as this it’s about solo success – so even if you are in a crowded office it’s your month to stick your foot in the door and be heard. I know you have no problem with that Aries. Everything is new and shiny in January and so it’s also a good time to just try out something new in all areas. It will certainly be a month that you might want to check in on your current health plan – this is a very energetic card so if you don’t feel particularly well right now then it’s your signal to tune in to your body and give it some serious respect and nurture. You should also be feeling pretty a-okay on the financial front, but remember that you don’t need to be rolling in cash to be grateful for what you’ve got. In fact practice some gratitude for everything you do have to give a nice wink to the Universe that you’re present and ready for more. Of course this is also an awesome card for manifesting. My method of ‘Intention – Action – Surrender’ is perfect for your January. First, get your intentions clear – what do you really want? How do you want to feel? Be unapologetic about the plans you have but be compassionate about your journey. Don’t set yourself tasks purely so you can punish yourself if you don’t fulfill them! Instead get excited about all the possibilities this year could bring, then, when you are ready – go get ‘em!

I’ve just completed your in depth look at 2014 – Read your year ahead Tarotscope here!

TAURUS – SIX OF PENTACLES

Did you notice the energy of that Tower card come in last month? Any dramatic changes or lightning bolt style moments of clarity? January arrives with The Six of Pentacles, which is usually a sign that things are on the up, so if you did have a hard time in December this is a spark of faith that you will pull through. This card holds generosity and I want you to explore what giving and receiving is present in your life. Firstly, it’s a good start to check in with your sense of balance, especially around other people and your day-to-day. If you’re feeling drained and unfulfilled, perhaps you’re giving too much of your energy out to those who aren’t reciprocating? A sure fire way to turn that around is to spend as much time as possible this month with the friends and colleagues who uplift you to bring a little positivity back in and remind yourself what it feels to be surrounded by like minded people, or even those who you just seem totally relaxed around. I have been making an effort to do this recently and I found that a few days spent with ‘my people’ really fast-tracked everything around me for the better – this might be apparent for you this month. This is a good card for work and finances and can often show you having an input of cash in an unexpected way – it might be that you’ve applied for a bank loan or are seeking a mentor, and this person may show up soon to be able to give you some sage advice. You’re also in a fine space to share your knowledge so if you had plans to start setting up a business or launch a new website then this card shows the Universe agrees you have a message to get out! Don’t feel shy about standing up and speaking about the types of experiences that have taught you along you way, others will love your practical and real advice, and your words could be the turning point of change for many others. Health wise, just remember to give some love back to your inner self, stopping to get a manicure or ever just allowing yourself some sofa time will get you back in check and enable you to be the super awesome being that you are!

I’ve just completed your in depth look at 2014 – Read your year ahead Tarotscope here!

GEMINI – THE DEVIL

I spoke with you in December about clearing your files, sorting through your stuff and taking it away to heal. Did you find that this reflected through your month? It might even be that you had a sudden onslaught in the last week of the year, as all your biggest fears reared their heads at once. I say this because now we have the man himself – The Devil – present at the start of the year. Now don’t run away screaming, for this card doesn’t signify the world falling apart! He is simply a manifestation of your ego as if this card is the devil on your shoulder showing you all the restrictions that are in place in your life. The message is that it’s your job to remove these setbacks – and this feeling you have of being totally out of control right now can be freed up by you accepting some flow back in and actively choosing to not listen to the ego voice of Fear. The Devil could also represent a person that you are struggling with in your life right now, someone who is pushing all your fearful buttons. This can be a serious challenge and your goal is to not let the fears have the power. If we feed our fears they will appear to grow bigger and bigger – instead, it is our job to acknowledge them, say hello, and keep on going about our business, paying more attention to love and compassion, particularly for ourselves. Know that while it’s entirely possible to feel restricted by someone else, you can’t change other people, so you have to just flip back again to you and not follow in their footsteps. Your fears can be very strong with this card and can be very much focused on the future outcome of a situation – what will happen? I can’t tell you that and you can’t know either, but don’t dismiss your inner capacity for joy because of any anxiety you’re experiencing. It’s very easy to feel let down by life sometimes, but try to only allow that to be a passing moment, purely because you know that energy is contagious and right now you need the strong support that a positive attitude brings. Fear is a battle for all of us, but working with the present moment more and more you will see the power that fear has over you diminish rapidly as you accept things as they are right now, instead of flinging your energy all over the place. January will be a big month for you and the year ahead is showing a real breakthrough in mental clarity, so hang in there!

I’ve just completed your in depth look at 2014 – Read your year ahead Tarotscope here!

CANCER – JUDGMENT

Hello adventurer! I hope you had a creative and expansive end to the year, with perhaps some fun and games thrown in. We start the year off with quite a big strong and intense card and I feel the Universe is trying to catch your attention here. The imagery in the Judgement card shows an angel trumpeting from the heavens as a collection of figures climb out of the ground and come to the surface. The message is certainly one of rebirth, and a big push for you to stand up and be counted! This often comes if you feel like you’ve slid a little off your path or become a bit wishy-washy with your intentions – that blaring trumpet says ‘wake up!’ I have seen this card come up a lot for clients recently with the energy around us really signaling for us to be serious about our passions and accept our calling cards. Because of this element of rebirth you can expect to feel the winds of change during the month, some of them motivated by the actions you intend to take while others may be the Universe sweeping in and getting rid of what you don’t need, so trust that there is a method within any madness and that everything happens to get you to be where you should be. Now this isn’t a card of swift action, it represents the opening of your eyes and a period of evaluation before you make your moves. So don’t feel like you need to charge off your starting block – in fact it’s a good idea not to be hasty, but spend the beginning of the year really making some solid plans. There is also a sense of spiritual awakening here as the rebirth can be you stepping into a different energy space. You may have been researching and experimenting with some new ways of thinking recently, and found yourself having a bit more faith that you can bust through your blocks. So you may find yourself making a commitment to a period of healing, because you know that the future will benefit from you being at your finest. You might feel like joining some group therapy sessions to help understanding that others are experiencing similar fears and that you’re not as alone as you often think. This card is a positive sign that you can continue your journey and get to the bottom of those demons and shift them out, making way for all that is new, exciting and frankly much, much more interesting.

I’ve just completed your in depth look at 2014 – Read your year ahead Tarotscope here!

LEO – FIVE OF PENTACLES

Happy New Year to you! I hope that you managed to indulge a little over the holiday season and get the rest you needed from a recent work slog. The Five of Pentacles is urging you to not sway off your highest path this month. The Fives always come up to teach us about the human experience and this card is a real mix of the material and spiritual worlds. It can show up when you suddenly feel a bit abandoned by the environment around you and so in turn you abandon the world within – when of course you need to do the total opposite! This feeling isn’t entirely accurate, as you may feel alone but in fact you have a wealth of support around when you need it – but you do have to check in and call it in! So if you suddenly feel really out of whack this month, ask for help! It might be that you check in with your closest friends or take yourself for a massage with your favorite therapist – either way you must allow yourself to be nurtured so that you can see the light again. Be careful not to get into the mood where you think that everyone ‘has it better’ than you – that can be you turning your fire element back on yourself and others, which can easily missfire leaving you angry at the Universe or the people around you. It’s not the time to start throwing out mysterious tweets that talk about you being ‘all you’ve got’ because it cultivates a judgmental attitude which is very negative and also closes you off to brighter thoughts. Your take home is that all is not lost, there is brightness ahead of any stressful moments that you may experience along the way. Change your tune so that you sync back into a positive mental attitude and avoid settling into a lack mentality. If you believe that you don’t have what you need then that’s what you will always see. Practice some gratitude for all the little blessings in your life right now – I bet there are so many – as this can be the start of you returning to a spiritual practice. Give it a shot, even simply closing your eyes and focusing on your breathing for a minute while you’re on the bus, you are committing to an investment in your wellbeing. You are worth the life that you dream of, so don’t hang around recycling your sadness because there are a million more awesome things round the corner for you.

I’ve just completed your in depth look at 2014 – Read your year ahead Tarotscope here!

VIRGO – FOUR OF SWORDS

Stay in the holiday groove Virgo, as you still need some rest. The Four of Swords feels to me like the calm before the storm – not a destructive one, but it might be that February and onwards is going to be all Go Go Go, so you want to sail the calm seas for as long as possible. The imagery of this card shows a figure lying in bed with these swords around him, and I used to think that this card was signalling some kind of anxiety. But the more I’ve worked with it, I’ve learned that it’s merely a reflection of recent anxiety and stress giving you the go ahead to slow down and rest up. It often arrives as a little warning to us that if we over work and over dramatize things, then our physical body may end up feeling the stress. If you felt rather beaten down in December, make January a month of good health. You don’t have to dive into a restrictive detox but be mindful that you want to feed yourself well so that you have energy for what’s ahead. You have a pretty action packed year ahead with all sorts of success, so please accept this moment of retreat. If you can take extra time off work then you could benefit from some time out in nature or away from the buzz of your laptop, somewhere you can find actual silence. If you can’t get out of town, meditation will be key – you might enjoy some guided meditations where you can jet yourself off to some golden fields in your mind and receive some divine healing. This is also a time of contemplation for the year ahead, a little bit of intention before you put in the action, so enjoy some daydreaming and visualizing. Be light and airy in the best possible way, and avoid using your down time to have a little dance party with your fears – we know how easy that can be! Let yourself have as much alone time as possible – there is positivity in solitude so don’t feel guilty about turning down any party invites, as your wellbeing is the priority. With all this in mind, don’t be afraid of the spaces that appear in your schedule or of a quieter financial month; remember the ebbs and flows of life. You know that it’s important for you to take this breather so stop arguing about it in your head. You aren’t being unproductive if you have a day off work – okay!

I’ve just completed your in depth look at 2014 – Read your year ahead Tarotscope here!

LIBRA – SEVEN OF PENTACLES

We’re back on the work train for you my little Libra. The Seven of Pentacles has a lot in common with The Hanged Man – both share elements of patience and surrender. Your mood is that of a gardener that has just planted all of his favorite flowers and is dying to see them bloom. But this isn’t a time for instant gratification and you must allow things to mature. Our ability to be patient and let our ships come in in their own time is very important, and an exercise in our own personal confidence. It can be easy to see periods of waiting as some sort of failure – but this is far from the case, in fact the signs all point to positive returns on your investment. So in the career and material world you may be waiting on emails, article approvals, or confirmation of a pay raise. You may even be waiting for legal matters to be sorted out. You won’t be waiting forever though, do not fear, you will probably see things moving along within a matter of weeks, so you can be calm in this surrender and, in fact, enjoy it. In another sense this card shows things coming back to you that you have put out, so if you took a bit of a wild adventure in the spirit of rhe holiday season then you could be feeling in need of a serious detox. No problem, you are totally up for the job! Just get on it fast so that you boost your energy levels for later in the month when you find yourself needing to put in some major work on all those opportunities that have suddenly come back around. It’s also important to allow things to have their flow and not freak out if something doesn’t work out how you planned. If one flower amongst seven doesn’t blossom then this is no major loss to have a hissy fit about – instead, see it as creating a space for something else to grow. Please take this mindset as gold dust as it can really free you up from causing yourself a lot of inner anguish. This way of thinking actually opens more doors and takes off the blinkers. Remember, life is good, so settle in and enjoy what you have right now. Be thankful for a new year and know that a bunch of magical opportunities await you.

I’ve just completed your in depth look at 2014 – Read your year ahead Tarotscope here!

SCORPIO – THE STAR

You’re back on form this month Scorpio – more power to you! December carried a rush of healing along with a few ego flares, and as January comes in you’re really on top of it and ready to be the brightest and shiniest you! Please prepare to go for gold as The Star gives you the ability to rise above your challenges and rebirth any time that you need to. You have been caring for your health and so your energy is on the up, and if you haven’t then please don’t waste time punishing your body. You absolutely have to draw that line and respect yourself so that your outer world can reflect your inner being. Be loving to your body and your life will call in sunbeams. The Star is a beacon of positive energy and a pioneer for clicking yourself into a truly magical mindset. It’s also a serious shout out for you to keep at your spiritual practice – remember that it should be fun! The last thing we want is to punish ourselves about whether we’ve meditated long enough today. You know what works for you – just keep at it. You must not hide in the shadows this January; it is the right time to keep throwing ideas and projects out into the cosmos. Your wisdom must be shared and you will do yourself and the world an injustice if you hide away and are afraid to share what you know. This card gives you the ability to be a shining light for others, so never underestimate your ability to uplift someone with the tiniest of actions – even a smile. You also might want to check in with some of your own ‘star people.’ Whether this means friends who always uplift you or a new therapist or coach, seek any advice that you need to be able to hone your skills this month. Be grateful – be grateful for your past, your present and very much for your future. I like to thank the world for the joy I have ahead and acknowledge the faith I have that I am on the right path. Do this for yourself, and also recognize your talents! I always see the stars showering across this card like medals for all that you’ve achieved so far, so pat yourself on the back. The stars also reflect all the new projects and passions you have around and in store. The year is no doubt going to be a big one for you and so your only job is to be unapologetic about stepping into your super powers and enjoy the ride.

I’ve just completed your in depth look at 2014 – Read your year ahead Tarotscope here!

SAGITTARIUS – QUEEN OF CUPS

I am here to tell you that all that water energy from the last year…is here to stay! Welcome to a brand new you, as there’s no escaping your feelings or your intuition so you may as well embrace it, baby! I really love the transition from the King of Cups to the Queen this month, as you get to relax a little more as you familiarize yourself with a change in your energy. This is a much more feminine and divine source for you this January. I also feel this is a really positive card to kick off your year and, having just completed your year ahead forecast, it’s looking pretty celebratory. So let’s get started! The Queen of Cups gives you the ability to see the world through a lens of love, compassion, intuition and nurture. You will continue to practice thinking from your heart space and trusting that your gut has some gusto. This Queen is perfect to help you redefine any fiery moments that leap up this month, perhaps unexpectedly you know right away that you must treat fire with a big wet kiss of L.O.V.E. You also may find yourself the healer of the bunch this month as people seem to line up to ask you for help with their problems – and you delight in doing so. Make sure you watch your energy, and don’t forget your boundaries. Visualize a bright and shiny bubble around you so that you feel protected in your space. Make sure to balance this by spending time with your power posse – you need the support of your gang around you especially as you flow into this New Year. I’ve spoken to you a lot about self care over this past year, so keep it up. You have noticed it working and seen your body and mind respond well to a nice dose of good food and more sleep. You are sitting secure on your throne as you set off into this new year and you are right to be confident about your plans – just keep going at everything in your life from a heartfelt place. The moment that you start making decisions from fear, then you will notice a headfirst turn in the not so awesome direction. You now know from experience that that way of thinking just won’t cut it for you anymore – plus we all know that you are too intent on getting your own way to risk fear de-railing your success!

I’ve just completed your in depth look at 2014 – Read your year ahead Tarotscope here!

Cast using the Rider Waite Deck.

www.louiseandrolia.com
@louniverse

INTUITION 101: HOW TO BE YOUR OWN PSYCHIC

Last week at the Golden Bridge yoga center in NYC, Gahl Sasson, a.k.a. the Cosmic Navigator, hosted an evening called Becoming Your Own Psychic. If “intuition is like a muscle, you have to strengthen it,” Ruby Warrington reports on a practical session that was sort of like a workout for the third eye.

The evening kicked off with a round of names and signs. Why? “We can’t do this without water. Intuition is ruled by the water signs, Pisces in particular.” In fact, wherever Pisces shows up in your chart, “is where you will benefit most in life from what your intuition is telling you.” For me (an Aries but with six planets in water signs throughout my chart), I have Venus (romance, taste, personal style) in Pisces in the 3rd house (communication, friendships, community). No wonder I just did a psychic closet clear out, and my friends often tell me they’ve just been thinking about me when I call.

There’s even a theory that Pisces was actually the first sign of the zodiac, and that all the others are just a figment of Pisces’ potent imagination. And in fact, any activity that gets you closer to your inner Pisces is a good way to get your intuition (“the ‘tuition’ that comes from ‘in’ side us”) flowing – “so go for a swim, take a salt bath (“a little temple of Pisces”), take a yoga class or read some poetry.” Particularly before bed. Pisces also rules our dreams, so tune in just before you set sail for the land of nod and expect much more clarity when you try to interpret whatever messages your sleeping psyche has for you.

And never forget, the opposite sign to Pisces is Virgo. By being fastidious with our daily habits and our analysis of the world around us, and working to maintain good health through diet and exercise, will we create the right internal environment for our intuition to flourish.

There follows a series of practical exercises, drawing on cultures from the Kabbalah to the Aborigines to the C.I.A. (yes, really) to flex your psychic muscle.

THE DREAM QUEST
“Pose a question to your higher self while you’re asleep, and you brain is not impeded by logic.”

  • Refrain from drinking alcohol for three days prior to your quest
  • Refrain from eating food four-five hours before you go to bed
  • Right before you go to sleep, pose a very specific question to your higher self. Use the words; how, when, where, what…(as opposed to why)
  • Drink half a glass of water, and go to sleep
  • On rising, drink the rest of the water and immediately write down what you can remember from your dreams
  • If you find it difficult to remember what you saw, set your alarm for four a.m. to interrupt your dream mid flow, and write then
  • Repeat for up to seven nights, until your answer is revealed by the symbols in your dreams. Think, how do the images feel to you, and what do these feelings relate to?
  • For extra insight, find a poem that relates to the most potent symbolic messages by plugging them into Google

THE ANGEL IN A CUP
“Use this to allow your higher self to locate something that’s gone missing.”

  • Take one angel, and one glass
  • Holding the glass out in front of you, ask the angel to hop in, and then place it upside down on a table to trap the angel inside
  • Search for whatever it is that’s missing – your keys, your passport, your child
  • As the boundary of the glass creates “focus” for your psychic energy (represented by the angel) you will likely hit your target in record time
  • Release the angel and let it fly away

DISTINGUISH INTUITION FROM FEAR
“How do you know if it’s your gut or your fear telling you to act? The sensations can be similar so train your body to tell the difference.”

  • Download some music you know you will really hate. For some people this might be gabber house, for others, anything by Justin Bieber
  • Force yourself to listen to it, loud
  • Take note; where do you feel the sensation of disgust in your body? What does it feel like?
  • Repeat with a piece of music you really love
  • Take note; where do you feel the sensation of pleasure and happiness in your body? What does it feel like?
  • Remember the difference between your physical experiences of aversion and attraction. This is your body’s way of communicating what you need to know

(N.B. this experiment can also be conducted using food)

THE SORTES VIRGILIANAE
“Named for the ancient Roman poet Virgil, when mystics would use passages from his Aeneid to predict the future.”

  • Chose a book you feel emotionally connected to, or that resonates with you in relation to your situation
  • Pose a very specific question to your higher self
  • Open the book at random, and select one sentence from the page
  • Using this passage,  work with your intuition to find the answer to your question

AUTOMATIC WRITING

  • Take a blank piece of paper and a pencil
  • When you are very tired and by the light of a candle, spend five-10 minutes writing down the first things that come into your head
  • Without reading what you have written, go to sleep
  • Repeat for 30 days
  • Only at the the end of the 30 days, read everything
  • Circle the things you have no recollection of writing down, and string them together to create a message or poem from your higher self

DEVELOP YOUR INTUITION, C.I.A. STYLE
“In 1995, President Clinton revealed records of a C.I.A. investigation into the validity of psychic activity by the intelligence community, instigated as a counterfoil to similar activity by the K.G.B.”

  • Close your eyes and relax deeply
  • Focus on a background
  • Focus on a colour
  • Focus on a symbol
  • Focus on a smell
  • Focus on a sound
  • Think, are there water, plants, people, food or animals in the picture you are creating?
  • Think, are there round shapes, patterns, hard edges, is the image soft, linear or cloudy?
  • Open your eyes and draw the picture your higher self has created. This is where you will find your mark.

Like any muscle, with your intuition it’s a case of use-it-or-lose-it, so practise these techniques regularly. Start an “intuition diary” to make a note of symbols, noises and smells that light a psychic spark in you, so you can track the daily workings of your higher self.  After all, who doesn’t want know how to be your own psychic?

You should also be aware that as you open up your own energy field and begin to blur the boundaries of time and space, you’ll become more susceptible to negative vibes sneaking their way in along with the insights you now have access to. So here are some practical tips for creating a cosmic force field to protect yourself as you delve into the unseen.

www.cosmicnavigator.com
@gahl1

TAROTSCOPES: OCTOBER 2013

According to the Tarot, October promises a month of personal growth and renewed self-confidence for every sign. Resident reader Louise Androlia reveals what this means for you.

Libra – King of Pentacles

Happy Birthday to you. I’ve been talking frequently about work for you Libra, and sorry to be a bore but it seems like your professional life really has been the focus the last few months. I wonder if this has been leading up to events coming to a head now. It’s always nice to feel like your birthday month brings you an extra surge of power and October is going to be very much about summoning this personal strength and inner courage. This is your fourth Pentacle card in a row, again calling on you to channel the earth energy, especially when you are tempted to be pulled away by the clouds. The King Of Pentacles is a strong force and gives you another boost of confidence to really ask for what you want this month. This is a card of abundance and I feel another “GO” signal for any projects you’ve been working on this year. If you aren’t out there pushing your talents, then what are you waiting for? October offers an evolve or evaporate ultimatum. Which will you choose? The King of Pentacles also brings to me feelings of someone with a dominant energy around you. In business you may find yourself reaching out to a collaborator, someone that could inspire you with their mentoring approach. Alternatively, you may have been on a bit of a power trip lately or putting too much pressure on yourself. In which case, watch out for a burn out. To be blunt, CHILL OUT! Don’t let your health suffer…holistic massage alert! Because of the strength of this card please also be aware of anyone in your life that you feel has a negative dominant energy over you. This could be a lover or family member, and if you feel sometimes like you’re under the thumb then this is your chance to stand up for yourself and reclaim your voice. Try some meditations for the Throat Chakra. You may subconsciously be living out moments from your teenage years, where you felt like you weren’t ‘good’ enough or ‘smart’ enough. Remembering that your past is not a blueprint is so important. And nor is it a holiday destination! You know that you can choose how you view your life and path right? Channel some love to your inner child, say farewell to those ‘I’m not good enough’ thoughts, pack your bags and move forward.

October 21st Mercury Retrograde Tip – With dominant energy surrounding you, choose not to be intimidated by that certain someone. Rather, use this time to observe and learn.

Scorpio – Page of Pentacles

Change is in the air Scorpio. If this scares you then realign yourself with the fact that you are the master of regeneration, and that being afraid of change is really redundant for you, like packing your superhero cape in the closet and throwing away the key. No, no, no! Stand strong in the face of flux but be as fluid as possible. You were so busy last month, and things aren’t going to slow down in October. With the Page of Pentacles the entrepreneurial spirit of last month endures, and you certainly aren’t short of ideas. This is still Scorpio hour. What this October is really about though, is getting to grips with combining your elements. For a sign that’s so intuitive and deep you have been really aware of practicalities over the last few months, and have been feeling a new connection to the earth energy. Usually you are all ‘feelings’ and this earthy grip is good for you, encouraging you to make decisions that are going to work well for you long term, less emotional quick fixes. And you feel guided towards people and places that spell out F U T U R E for you. It might be in your nature to look for spontaneous love affairs, but right now, shock horror, the idea of a joint bank account doesn’t seem so terrible. If this doesn’t resonate, then have a think about your intentions. Are you complaining that the world is against you? Is your Facebook page filling up with ‘this terrible thing happened TO me’? Have you forgotten about your personal power? Begin shifting the way you see things, return to your gratitude practice, and GO! Meanwhile, back to those brilliant ideas. The Page of Pentacles is a dreamer, and October will find you aiming for the highest heights but this time you have an agenda. The imagery on the Rider Waite deck for this card speaks great volumes, and I see you clasping gently the pentacle in your hand, like you’re letting a Chinese lantern off into the sky, honouring all your biggest dreams before you set off on your mission…to do list firmly in hand.

October 21st Mercury Retrograde Tip – Don’t show off and don’t project aggression. Your voice is your expertise, so always use it with patience and kindness.

Sagittarius – The Magician

As soon as I picked this card I felt that October will be all about confidence for you, Sagittarius. It’s amazing how for someone who can be such a power house and a fiery force,  you sometimes have these little dips and start believing you have nothing to offer the world. They often come when changes mean you can’t necessarily see the way ahead, so you suddenly feel you could be failing somewhere. Good job I’m here to halt that thought and show you how to use this incredible card as motivation for the new season. The Magician is one of my favourite cards of the Major Arcana, helping you suddenly realise that you have absolutely everything you need to manifest your hopes and dreams, with all his mighty tricks at your disposal. Pretty cool, right? The Magician lays out the elements in front of him; mental strength, inspiration, feelings and practical skills. So what to do with your newfound toolbox? October brings a reconnection of the forces that drive you Sagittarius. You might find yourself digging back over the last ten years and making a ‘top ten’ list of the work projects you loved the most, or, linking to last months card, the times where you noticed the love around you the most. Writing yourself this kind of love letter is a great way to boost your self-esteem. Anyway, the reason you need this boost now, is that The Magician is a card that holds a strong force for success. Fame and success are very much in your energy sphere right now, which is why I don’t want you to miss out. Be social and communicative. This card shows you expressing your talents very well and really being heard. Anywhere you feel an imbalance then look to the elements and grab what you need. Feeling too emotional? Pull from the earth source and nourish your body with grounding root vegetables, or get outside for a run. Feeling burnt out? Pull from the water source and let a little of the hippie back in. You know your intuition is spot on when you tune in, and this could guide you back to your centre.

October 21st Mercury Retrograde Tip – The Magician is linked with Mercury so you can use this time to your advantage. Communicate kindly towards yourself and others, and practise your magic tricks ready to unleash them in your birthday month.

Capricorn – Three of Pentacles

You’re upping your game this month Capricorn, and I feel movement is finally coming your way. There have been a lot of stops and starts this year and something is about to click for you. The Three of Pentacles is an incredible card, with mastery and teaching being a key theme. I feel that you might need to be stretched a little, or a lot. You don’t work well if you aren’t occupied, you get bored easily and that can become a really negative space for you. And when you need a push, sometimes you have to push yourself. This card encourages you to step it up and always shows to me that the student is becoming the master. So I see you considering applying for a bigger role, or a promotion, somewhere with greater responsibilities that suits your specific talents better than recent times. There is a great teaching element to this card, and you may take on extra members of your team or employ some interns for your creative endeavours. Spreading your skills to a wider group will also give you a confidence boost that you might need. You often give off an air of complete fearlessness when inside you can feel totally directionless. So let others build you up. This card suggests that you should be open to receiving some mentoring yourself, who are your teachers? As they say a therapist always needs their own therapist, and this season it might be that you ask for some help to get you to where you want to go. The Threes are also always about expansion so socially this month you may find your best times are out with a gang of your closest friends, while sharing ideas and down time in a group setting will be very motivating. Collaborate with your nearest and dearest and you might be surprised with the awakenings that you have. And don’t dismiss anyone. The most unlikely person could be the key to unlocking an idea for you. In the love zone, more play dates! Think of your partner as your teammate and enjoy the feeling of duality. If you are single then meeting people in a group setting is likely to be a winner this October. Could be time to allow your friends to set you up on a blind date?

October 21st Mercury Retrograde Tip – Be open to letting people teach YOU, sometimes you take on the leadership role too strongly and don’t let anyone help you.

Aquarius – Nine of Wands

You were busy last month weren’t you? Run off your feet even. The Nine of Wands offers encouragement in the face of a long slog, and as much as I want to ask, ‘are you okay there?’ I don’t feel like things are terrible. You’ve just been all systems go – no rest for the wicked as they say. There have been so many opportunities for growth recently and this card is a reminder to just keep going. It’s here to alert you to your resilience and to remind you that you are almost through your current challenges. Think of this card as an army of cheerleaders pushing you towards the finish line. I want to talk more about your personal life, so in regards career, all I want you to take on board is that if you don’t look after your mind, body and spirit then you won’t be able to do the work you want. It’s a two way street, and if you totally burn out you’ll feel useless. So keep that at the forefront, and let balance be your mantra. Okay, so does it feel like the road to L O V E is paved with more stress than strength? Again, you are inching your way there, but it would be nice if you didn’t have to learn an army of lessons every date you go on. So often we don’t find out what we want until we see what we don’t, but how about you draw some serious lines in the sand. Keep attracting the same ‘wrong’ person? Redefine what might be right for you and grab your personal power back. Sometimes we sit and complain but haven’t taken the time to acknowledge what we really want. I feel like you will resonate with this, so how about a positive game plan? Energetically you can also boost yourself with the same tactic, shifting your focus onto only what is really important and necessary. Self love and consideration go a long, long way. When you are ploughing up a mountain you don’t want to involuntarily knock yourself back, so use ‘movement’ as your mantra. This is a positive month and rewards are coming. I believe that challenges are in place to move us to higher ground, so aim REALLY high Aquarius.

October 21st Mercury Retrograde Tip – You know all about Mercury and that old crossed-communication problem – so think straight talking, no games. They aren’t worth your time.

Pisces – Nine of Wands

The magic card for you this month Pisces! The Nine of Wands is often known as the ‘wish card’ and I’m happy to turn it over for you after what seems to have been a lot of ups and downs this year. A theme that keeps coming up for you Pisces is about the choices you make, and I want to keep pushing you towards understanding and really working with the knowledge that you get to and HAVE to participate in creating your own life. You can be swept away with feelings and your wonderfully intuitive nature means you sometimes get lost in dreamland – then find yourself getting upset about why nothing is happening the way you imagined…and blaming it all on the Universe. This card always comes up to let you know that you have power in your thoughts and actions and that the energy around you is very strong for getting what you want. Create some solid intentions, without them then we can float around a little. Manifesting is about making positive and practical daydreams and then surrendering them and getting on with acting on our ideas. So this October, really notice how you live your life day-to-day. Are you someone that focuses on the negative? Who weighs the ups and downs of every day so you can write off the day as good or bad? Try as an experiment to only give your energy to the good, no complaining about anything for a week. Actively switch out entertaining your negative thoughts with a daily gratitude practice. And let me know how you get on. Back to your card, which is a water card, and so made for you. Let a little magic in. If you’ve already been putting in all the above work, then this month is about you celebrating the effort you have made and actually stepping back and noticing the shifts, even the ones that seem tiny, and taking on this new mind-set as a permanent attribute. Surround yourself with those who uplift you, it’s a simple thing but how often do we act on it? Collect your nearest and dearest together and have a new season intentions hangout. Make mood boards or even just have dinner and support each other as you talk about your intentions for the next few months. Enjoy life.

October 21st Mercury Retrograde Tip – Take a meditation class to fine tune your thought processes. Even if it’s totally ‘not you,’ do it anyway and thank me later.

Aries – Ten of Wands

Aries, I feel you might have taken all the excitement of The Fool last month, done WAY too much and now feel like you are wilting at the wayside? The Ten of Wands in a word is ‘Overwhelmed’ and I always find this comes up at that point when you feel completely burned-out. So as a theme for the month, try to use it as a way to just be aware. Often when we get to overwhelm, it’s because somewhere along our journey we haven’t noticed ourselves getting stressed, and then all of a sudden BOOM we drop like flies. This month I want you to ask for help, and I mean that. Spread your tasks out in front of you, because this card is about delegating, even when you don’t really want to. You have a team on hand, and so it’s a case of loosening your grip and not being such a perfectionist. Trust those around you and know that they can be of assistance, even if it’s just letting some boring tasks be done by someone else it will free you up to get your energy back. What you don’t want is to end up resenting your work because you are too tired. I feel confidence issues have come up for everyone this month, and for you, Aries, as much as you know you’re brilliant, sometimes you suddenly flip and freak out. Caught in the act, sorry! Once you get your health in check you’ll be back on track. I feel it’s time you re-introduced yourself to the term ‘rest’ – and remember, real rest isn’t running ten times round the block, it’s silence. True, positive nothingness. The thing I love most about the Tens is that they are always the tipping point back to the Ace energy, so if we look ahead to the Ace of Wands, we find a massive boost of inspiration and energy that can be your motivation. To be able to continue on your amazing journey you need your wonderful spirit! You know that if you are too worn out then you can’t get on with these stupendous plans and we need you on top form, Aries. It’s almost like you need to look at yourself from the outside, as if you were your very, very best friend. I bet you’d be reaching out with a hug, a dinner invite, flowers and love. This can be such a good way to realise what we really need. Your mantra this month? Nurture.

October 21st Mercury Retrograde Tip – Seriously use this retrograde to climb to a safe place and get some energy healing, you deserve it.

Taurus – Ace of Pentacles

And back on with the action plan Taurus. I hope you used last month to recalibrate a little because The Ace of Pentacles is an amazing go-getting card, with efficiency at the forefront. This Earth card will give you new insight and inspiration into all earth bound areas. There is an emphasis for you on the home front, which means you may be moving, buying or selling, and if so this is a chance for you to align yourself with a new area or city that feels right for you at this point in your life. I feel a very strong sense of a ‘new you’ moment occurring this month! The Aces are very personal cards, encouraging you to really honor your self and leap back onto your path. If my hunch that September was a bit wobbly for you, you will welcome this chance to reconnect to your beloved Earth. Career wise, this could bring a new type of energy around your finances, a chance to get on top of your taxes or gain some new independence. If you are looking to start your own venture then this is the card with the green light as it shows that the Universe has your back. So be bold, get out there and start looking for investors and the right people to team up with. This is a positive action card, Taurus, and above all a chance to grow. Let the past be only a teacher, and be inspired by what lies ahead. You can occasionally get a little stagnant and stubborn so you have to be the person who pushes yourself forwards. Get some inspiration from your fire sign friends, how do they approach change? You have the amazing ability to get things done and maybe just need a confidence boost to believe it. Either way you are headed in a good direction, keep going. Please apply all of the above to your health too, as it might be time for a new direction with self care, which means finding something that resonates with you now instead of your familiar routine. If the Ace represents beginnings then we also have to honor what’s ending, and as we move into the new month you may have found yourself having to part ways with a long-standing cycle. Maybe you finally let go of that on-off relationship or left a job that was no longer serving you. If so then YAY, I’m proud of you. You will likely find things will suddenly move forward with a stronger velocity.

October 21st Mercury Retrograde Tip – In close relationships watch out for a judgmental attitude just so that you can feel on top. I guess what I’m trying to say is, don’t be a pain in the ass just for the sake of it 😉 Practice fluidity with your stubbornness.

Gemini – The High Priestess

I love the journey you’re on this year Gemini. I feel you have been more in tune with your self and your intuition than ever before, and this month will be no exception. The High Priestess holds so much energy in the Tarot deck, and she is an amazing character to resonate with. It’s likely that you have made some changes in the past months to do with really getting yourself ‘together.’ By that I mean that as a Gemini we all know you can switch from this to that, and from feeling to feeling quite easily, but lately you’ve been craving a oneness, something solid and familiar, an inner home and I feel you’ve been making progress here. With this card, October will mean some more work on the balance of your subconscious. Maybe in recent months you’ve felt a little more confident in your work and relationships and now you want to curl up and redefine your inner self. I’ve been touching on self-confidence issues for everyone this month, and for you this is about learning to trust your own decisions and intuition. You are the unexpected psychic gem of the zodiac in my opinion, and always have the correct ‘feelings’ about things, which sometimes comes as a surprise to you. This card can come up if you have wildly shifted in the wrong direction recently, so if you are reading this feeling completely off balance then you are being called back to yourself. Make sure you are surrounding yourself with those whose energy supports you. Don’t feel guilty for not wanting to spend time with people who you have come to recognise lower your mood, but at the same time acknowledge why those people exist. If we are all teachers for one another, why is it that that one person gets to you? This is the kind of work you can do with this card. She is the perfect mentor to meditate with, and meditate you must. Check out this simple breathing exercise – even a couple of minutes makes a difference, promise.

October 21st Mercury Retrograde Tip – Make sure you don’t use this energy to turn your self love switch off and start negatively judging yourself. Only good intentions for you sweet Gemini.

Cancer – The Empress

Hello lovely! We had this wonderful, nurturing card for you back in March, so you must flick your mind back to then and see if you are feeling a similar energy. There may be a lesson that still needs to be learned or a project that is completing. Last month I encouraged you to watch and wait and surrender a little. It’s likely you found some movement happening in the last couple of weeks especially, and The Empress is calling on you to remember to TAKE CARE! Now I know it’s not rude of me to say you are a fan of life beneath the duvet, and I feel right now you’d rather like to crawl there for the entire winter. Go for it! Well at least, a little. You need some TLC and The Empress brings this in, as well as balance. It’s okay to slow down a little. I know you have things to do, but you definitely feel change in the air, a recalibration even? And you know that for that to happen you need to calm the buzzing in your ear. So what to do when you feel like you can’t stop? Rest can happen in just a moments, if you let it. Know that you won’t be able to do anything at all if you get sick, stressed or overwhelmed, so a day off will actually pay for itself because of the energy boost you’ll get. This card will encourage you to find the balance everywhere, in relationships as well as in matters of work and health. Check in regularly and notice the highs and lows. Then think to yourself, who can be released, and what stresses don’t really deserve your attention? The Empress is the mother, the Earth mother, the spiritual mother, so may usher in something as simple turning the love you give to your own children (or friends) back to nurture yourself. Let others help you, surrender to moments of joy around you, and keep your eyes up with the sun and the stars. Beauty is with you and within you, so get lost in the moment, be present and believe in Love.

October 21st Mercury Retrograde Tip – Watch out for emotional retrograde, and don’t cry over spilt milk as they say. Use the energy to close doors that should have been shut a long time ago and welcome in the new.

Leo – The Sun

How did the surrender practice go? I feel like you learned some lessons last month Leo, and now you deserve a little celebration. This will likely arrive with a renewed sense of self-confidence, and I definitely feel that roar about ready to come out. The Sun is a card representing total joy and positivity, and you’re encouraged to take those new intentions you set in September and act on them. Speak out, using your voice to spread a positive message. The difficulties of your past can be your strength this Winter, and there really is a new wave of power coming through if you let yourself really connect to life. I also feel it could be an awesome month for a detox or cleanse, to remember how your body feels in it’s natural state. You are prone to over indulging of course, so get your addiction on in the form of a positive attitude. Get totally dizzy over moving forwards and be energised by the spirits of those around you who inspire you. The Sun card always carries a little of the midas touch, and so your gab may be gifted let’s say. Energy is high and you want to get out there. You may end up packing a case and seeking this card out for real – remember travel can be physical and metaphysical, so what sun-kissed journey might you go on? This card will always link back to the inner child too, reminding us of the pure joy we arrived on the planet with, and you might want to do some work on your past to clear yourself of moments where you didn’t feel so loved. This might mean a solo journey, or experimenting with a visit to a hypnotherapist. If you can’t feel this sun energy in your life, then I encourage you to hang out with the most positive people you know. Look at their attitude to life and how they make things work for them, and don’t be too proud to attempt a change of attitude. It’s incredibly brave to start out fresh and be willing to look at things in a different way, and it’s never to late. Healing is abundant.

October 21st Mercury Retrograde Tip – If your ‘gab is gifted’ try not to get burned out, which means balancing your work with some serious sofa time.

Virgo – Five of Wands

Another Five for you this month Virgo. This number teaches us many very ‘human’ lessons, and if last month you felt a lot of energy around financial worries then this month we are addressing your energetic and creative side. As with all the other signs, self-confidence is a factor too. I always look upon this card as a tangled up ball of wool with you in the middle pulling at all the strings, feeling it get tighter. The trick is being to step back and pause, surrender, then allow yourself to really ‘see.’ This is when you find that suddenly the space is clear. Remember this analogy if you feel this way this month. The Five of Wands brings about elements of competition and mixed messages, maybe not the perfect combination for a month with Mercury going retrograde, but I know you can keep on top of it. I feel it’s more likely that this mix up will be in your surroundings. It may feel like you’re shaking your head back and forth in the office and feeling frustrated with other people. You might be observing conflict amongst your friends or family and it could feel draining. There might be a few difficult conversations to be had, but don’t be afraid. I know that you can move forwards if you manage to articulate what is important for you. This card also brings in some change. Nothing crazy though, all you need is to be fluid and excited about something different, even if it’s a faux excitement at first! It’s time to recognising the power of your own voice, and speaking up rather than sitting back and knowing you what you have to say has value but not being quite sure how to acknowledge it. Having said that, there are elements of this month where it’s actually just going to be better for you to slither on out of there. You can sometimes put a lot of pressure on yourself Virgo and there’s really no need. It’s more a case of not paying attention to the thing that feels a bit ‘meh,’ as there are 500 positives surrounding it. Cozy up with your loved ones and enjoy your favourite season, but just remember keep moving forward, step-by-step.

October 21st Mercury Retrograde Tip – Don’t be tempted to get involved in other peoples dramas, you have better things to focus your energy on.

Cast using the Rider Waite Tarot Deck.

www.louiseandrolia.com
@louniverse

BIRTH CHART FOR AMMA THE HUGGING SAINT

As Mātā Amṛtānandamayī Devī, a.k.a. Amma, celebrates her 60th birthday today, the Astro Twins Ophira Edut examines the chart of the Hugging Saint – a woman who was born to heal the world.

Walking through New York City’s East Village, I recently spotted a red bumper sticker plastered to the curb bearing the words “Love is telepathic.” Groovy sloganeering aside, there’s one person on this planet who would probably agree. Her name is Amma, and she’s hugged 33 million people all over the world. That’s right—hugged. Ordinary people like us, from all walks of life, stand in line for hours for a magical if momentary embrace from the woman whose name, given to her as a teenager, means “mother.”

With seven planets forming a six-pointed star in feminine signs this July (a grand sextile, in astro-terminology), there’s no surprise our world is crying out for mother energy. The planet and its inhabitants need nurturing, compassion and connection like never before. So when The Numinous asked me to analyze Amma’s chart for her 60th birthday, I couldn’t say no.

I myself have never been hugged by Amma. I came to the Manhattan Center while she was in New York City, saw the long line, and my impatient Sagittarian nature overrode my desire for a spiritual squeeze. Full astro-disclosure: with my stiff Capricorn rising, I was secretly relieved. I once became notorious for being a “one-armed hugger,” and if I can get out the door with a wave instead of an embrace, I’m good. Yet, I also think it’s because I’ve spent too many years trying to be “serious” and responsible, trapped by my own stoic body language. I’m probably starving for affection, and will be the person who bursts into tears the second I meet her.

After hearing raves about Amma’s healing touch, I came to regret my moment of impatience and uptightness. I have certainly felt her radiant love telepathically since then, just seeing the glow she’s given friends, hearing about her incredible presence, and of course, by looking at her astrological chart. Now, I’m gonna have to let go of my silly stance and let myself experience Amma up close. Until her next visit, it will just be through the planets in her horoscope wheel…which is kind of an esoteric embrace in my world.

Here’s what stands out in Amma’s birth chart to me:

All you need is love: Sun in peacemaker Libra.
Amma, not surprisingly, is a Libra. In fact, she has four planets in the sign of unconditional love, peace and harmony. Libra rules relationships and interpersonal matters, and perhaps this is why Amma can stay awake 22 hours on an average day, giving hug after hug. In my experience, many Libras don’t really like or need to be alone—in fact, they thrive on the energy of other people.The planets Amma has in Libra are the Sun (her identity), Mercury (communication and touch), Neptune (healing and compassion) and Saturn (authority and stability). No surprise she can radiate sacred, comforting Neptunian energy but also has the dignity given by heavyweight Saturn. The combination of glamorous Neptune and serious Saturn has the marker of someone who is, in essence, a professional healer or empath. Naturally, she’s so much more than that. While she’s got her arms wrapped around the world, Amma also runs a huge, largely volunteer-run non-profit that serves orphanages, hospitals, programs for widowed and elderly people, and builds homes for the homeless worldwide. Since Saturn is also about building and structure, no surprise that she her giving also takes on concrete form.

Amma’s moon sign is steady, salt-of-the-earth Taurus.
The moon governs our feminine energy, and shapes the kind of mother women will be (even if they are spiritual mums, like Amma). Set in sensual Taurus, the most grounding and affectionate zodiac sign, Amma’s moon sign gives her the power of healing touch.

Playful, yet dignified: Amma has a regal Leo rising.
According to her sources, Amma was born at 9:09 am, which dictates the ascendant, or rising sign, in the chart. The rising sign rules the “face” you show to the world, the first impression you make, or your appearance. Amma has the beauty, presence and passion gifted by a Leo ascendant. Her expressive face, radiant smile and protective Leo hugs are all part of this chart factor, too. Leo is ruled by the Sun, the giver of vitality and joy. As a result, Amma’s “hugs” are probably more an exchange of life force energy—or a transmission of her own abundant supply of it, awakening people from feeling separate, isolated or alone.

Energized by giving: she has Mars and Venus in Virgo, the sign of service.
Energizing Mars and love planet Venus are both in Virgo, the helper and healer sign. Perhaps this is also why Amma stays awake for the majority of the day giving. With Mars here, she’s energized by her acts of service—and says as much herself. Venus adds palpable love, beauty and harmony to the equation. Both are in Amma’s first house of fame, making her a public figure for her work.

Mother to society: revolutionary Uranus is in Cancer, the mother sign.
Uranus is the cosmic liberator, in Cancer, the sign of the mother and nurturer. Nestled in Amma’s eleventh house of groups, humanitarian work and social reform, she has indeed become a virtual mother to the world.

A karmic destiny to serve: North Node in Aquarius, sixth house of service.
The north node (destiny point) in Amma’s chart is Aquarius, the zodiac’s humanitarian sign. It’s also in her sixth house of service. Her south node (past life karma) is in regal Leo, in the twelfth house of compassion and healing. This indicates that she’s had fame and fortune in past lives, and doesn’t need to live a life of luxury this time around. However, she carries the energy and fullness of having experienced the pleasure of material riches in former lifetimes. She is abundant, rather than lacking—although she spends her life hugging, the residual Leo energy also helps her avoid lapsing into the “martyr mother” role. Amma is not quiet, invisible and suffering silently. She’s the buzzing center of all the action. Aquarius is the sign of groups and communal living, and Amma lives her entire life in a crowd. She’s a leader, the hub of her many charities that run without her being present.

So here’s a 60th birthday hug, 33 million strong, to Amma. I hope one day to experience an in-person hug from her.

Read The Numinous interview with Amma here. 
www.amma.org

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TAROTSCOPES: SEPTEMBER 2013

As we head into a new season, what’s the back-to-school mood for your sign? Resident tarotscopes lady Louise Androlia dips into her deck…

Virgo – Five of Pentacles
Happy birthday, my sweet friend Virgo. September is probably your favourite month and I want you to enjoy it! This is the first time we have had a repeating card in these ‘scopes. The Five of Pentacles made a visit to you just a couple of months ago in July. When a card repeats itself, sometimes it’s just hopping up and down trying to be heard, so please revisit the advice I gave you in July, but also think back to that month and see what might be echoing now. Continue reading “TAROTSCOPES: SEPTEMBER 2013”