Aries Season 2019 is about stripping back down to our essence, and moving towards our target with an unstoppable grace, says Bess Matassa …
Photo: Melody Jacob
Aries Season 2019 urges us to commit to our essence and lay claim to our incomparable competence, completely drama free. A cosmic moment for clean cut confidence, this season beckons us back into what comes most naturally to us, as we rev our engines with focus, fluidity, and the feel-good freedom of our unrestrained life force.
With Aries’ ruling planet, Mars, in mix and match Gemini, there’s a playful sense of possibility in the air. Which superhero suit will you don today? Dig into the arsenal of resources in your repertoire, and reach for exactly what’s needed to hit your target. With sweetheart Venus traveling through Pisces, any hot-blooded need to prove or to possess anything is softened by a desire to simply show up as our most lovable selves.
As Pluto in Capricorn opposes the North Node in Cancer, it’s also a season for connecting to the raw exhilaration of responsibility. What tasks feel most tasty? What acts of self-sufficiency are also kindling for the fire in your Soul? Take this time to tap into the actual thrill of being a self-directed grown-up, making choices that nourish and fortify you for the long-haul as you set off with a sense of tingling anticipation.
This season’s double Libra Full Moons (on 3.20 and 4.19) will also help us say a final farewell to the patterns and partnerships that are dragging us down. So come exactly as you are. Bold and bare and ready to rock yourself all the way back home.
Read on for more on the 4 key astro events of the coming weeks …
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Sun in Aries (3.20-4.20) + Mars in Gemini (3.31-5.15) In its uncut form, Aries energy is the rugged sprout through the pavement cracks, and the lick of the crackling match. But the vibe of Aries season 2019, with Mars rolling through Gemini, is more fluid and windswept. Imagine you are a muscle car hood ornament, leading the way with an unstoppable grace. Get secure in your destination, and shoot towards it with your shiny chest bared and your head tossed back.
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Mercury direct in Pisces (3.28) + Venus in Pisces (3.26-4.20) As Mercury moves direct again in Pisces it’s joined by Venus, signaling a season of self-assured sensitivity. This energy wants you to love exactly what loves you back, fully and fiercely, and to swim away from temptations which ultimately leave you feeling less than buoyant. Chase only what you truly cherish, leave casual encounters behind, and choose where to go deep with care and compassion.
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Pluto in Capricorn opposite the North Node in Cancer (3.31-4.2019) The Capricorn-Cancer axis asks us to shelter ourselves with equal parts structure and sensitivity, and Pluto in Capricorn facing off against the Cancer North Node brings an invitation to become your own protector. When did you last relish taking responsibility for your own existence? Your inner child remembers how it felt to imagine life as a grown-up, making your own choices about what to eat and where to live. Channel this energy and give yourself exactly what you need.
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Double Full Moons in Libra (3.20; 4.19) This potent pair of Full Moons asks us to repair any feelings of “less than.” Bringing a chance to examine sticky places of shame, unworthiness, and unlovability, and where these are mirrored through partners, projects, and projections that threaten to tear us down, it’s a time to get back to backing ourselves completely. This Aries season, step outside of any outworn constructs that have left you trapped in cycles that don’t reflect your own precious worth.
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Learn more about Bess and her work and check out all her personalized Astro + Tarot offerings HERE.
As Mercury stations retro for the first time this year, savor the slow down with Rebecca Farrar‘s total guide to ALL the 2019 retrograde cycles …
Photo: Hugo Alexandre
Ever wish you could enter a time machine for a do-over?
Every planet in our solar system—except for the Sun and Moon—spends time “in retrograde.” These periods each bring powerful opportunities for collective and individual slow down and renewal, calling us to bring awareness to situations we may have glossed over or rushed past.
Mercury Retrograde has gotten a pretty bad name! But rather than harbingers of doom and gloom, all retrograde transits are opportunities to choose free will over fear.
When a planet is retrograde, it appears to move backwards in the sky, an illusion caused by the Earth passing by these slower moving planets. As these shifts occur, it’s up to us to decide how we’ll handle the themes they reveal.
With awareness of a planet’s areas of influence,we can notice how those energies move through us and can uncover new ways of relating to them. For example, if we tend to be non-committal, a Saturn retrograde transit may help us understand where more effort and hard work is needed. If we over-identify with our intellect, Mercury retrograde can reconnect us to our intuition.
Since January 6, 2019 all of the major planets have been in their forward motion. This ends on March 5, when Mercury stations in the last degree of Pisces before retrograding for most of March. As retrograde season 2019 begins, use the guide below to embrace these times of deep transformation, growth, and healing …
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Mercury // March 5—March 28 (retrograde in Pisces); July 7—July 31 (retrograde in Leo); October 31—November 20 (retrograde in Scorpio) When the planet of communication and linear thinking moves backwards, our minds may feel a bit fuzzy, especially since this year’s first Mercury retro occurs in the imaginative and intuitive Pisces. Take this time to:
Complete old writing projects, revise your resume, reignite a journaling practice.
Edit and review emails more closely to make sure you are articulating what you want to say as clearly as possible.
Reorganize closets, drawers, and cabinets, as Mercury likes to keep things in order.
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Ceres // April 9—July 17 (retrograde in Sagittarius) When the largest asteroid in our solar system is in retrograde, we may become more familiar with all of the places we need to up our self-care regime. Ceres’ 2019 retrograde cycle helps us contact our inner nurturer and recover our self-parenting tools. Utilize this retrograde for revisiting what you need to feel your best, both emotionally and physically. Use Ceres retrograde to:
Try out new recipes or new healthy eating habits and take care of your own needs before helping others.
Focus on the many ways to practice self-care, from salt baths to voicing your emotions.
Read books on attachment theory and emotional support such as Attached by Amir Levine, David Richo’s How to be An Adult, and the work of Rachel Heller.
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Jupiter // April 10—August 11 (retrograde in Sagittarius) The largest planet in our solar system, Jupiter’s slow down often reveals new visions. This year, Jupiter will be stationing in its own sign of Sagittarius, and this backward motion may evoke a sense of contraction or constriction. Use this time to:
Plan a trip or mini-adventure somewhere you’ve never been or revisit a favorite place—Jupiter loves to travel.
Notice places of over-indulgence and how you can cut back on waste, perhaps bring your reusable cup to the coffee shop or carry around bamboo silverware.
Take an honest look at the vision for your life and values, and write it down this time to make it feel more real.
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Pluto // April 24—October 3 (retrograde in Capricorn) Pluto brings us closer to the domain of shadow and the underworld, asking us to take a closer look at the “un-pretty” aspects of ourselves and to confront discomfort. When in retrograde, it helps us uncover places where we haven’t gone deep enough before. This year’s retrograde occurs as Pluto moves through Capricorn, along with Saturn, and asks important questions about power structures. Use Pluto retrograde to:
Dive into shadow work with a therapist or guide, or take a long hard look at the things you are annoyed and angry about, as the shadow shows up the most in our projections.
Get caught up on taxes or get your will in order; Pluto wants to prepare for the inevitabilities of taxes or death, as well as topics that may be uncomfortable to talk about.
Read up on the occult and mystical traditions that intrigue you, or pull out the Tarot deck you haven’t used in a while.
Photo: Felix Mittermeier
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Saturn // April 29—September 18 (retrograde in Capricorn) Similar to Jupiter, Saturn spends a third of the year in retrograde and offers clues about where we may need to re-commit or become more disciplined. In 2019, Saturn retrogrades in Capricorn, alongside Pluto, and can help us reclaim our sense of authority and responsibility where we may have avoided it in the past. Saturn represents the longer cycles of time and existence and when in retrograde, it can take us back in time to clean up old pain. Use this transit to:
Look for places to slow down and practice more discipline, whether it be at work or in relationships.
Rethink your long-term goals from the standpoint of the legacy you want to leave, write a 10-year plan, or even 40-year plan.
Contemplate your priorities over the next several months and discern where and with whom to focus your energy.
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Neptune // June 21—November 27 (retrograde in Pisces) When dreamy Neptune moves into retrograde, it brings a time to examine our illusions and fantasies. This planet connects us to our spiritual side and the myriad ways to feel in tune with the divine essence of who we are. The 2019 Neptune retrograde cycle occurs with Neptune in its favorite sign of Pisces, so projections may be at an all-time high. Use this cycle to balance fantasy with reality.
Resume a creative project, especially if it is related to a flow state such as photography, film, or painting.
Start up a meditation practice, or restart an old one, as Neptune desires a connection to the divine.
Take a break from substances that contribute to altered states of consciousness or disassociation.
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Chiron // July 8—December 12 (retrograde in Aries) Chiron is a bridge between different parts of ourselves, and helps us identify what still needs healing. During its retrograde phase, we can rely on this planetary body to help us rewire or release old painful patterns, as well as help us regain our sense of wholeness. Chiron’s 2019 retrograde moves through Aries, allowing for old confrontations to be addressed and an inner understanding of our anger. Use this transit to:
Take a class or receive a session of reiki or massage therapy (Chiron comes from the word for “hand”) to understand the power of hands-on healing.
Boost your self-esteem by making a list of your strengths and keeping them nearby.
Reorient to yourself by making a list of situations where you put others first, or a list of your non-negotiable needs for relating.
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Uranus // August 11—January 10, 2020 (retrograde in Taurus) This year’s Uranus retrograde transitions us from 2019 into 2020 with opportunities to rethink our creativity and uncover new ways of doing things. As Uranus re-enters Taurus on March 7, the retrograde occurs in the same sign and may revisit themes from things that occurred in May 2018. Use Uranus retrograde to:
Join a new community (IRL preferably) or attend group events you may have thought were not for you, as Uranus encourages us to try new things and also meet new people.
Activate your inner activist by recommitting to causes that mean something to you.
Update your technology or reread your smart phone manual—Uranus loves the future and feels at home with technology.
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Vesta // September 23—December 29 (retrograde in Taurus) Baby planet Vesta bridges heaven and Earth through ritual and devotion to personal ceremonies, and brings magic to the mundane through feeding our sacred flame. During its retrograde cycle, we may find ourselves pulled more deeply into our sacred practices, and during this year’s Vesta retro in Taurus, we’re asked to cultivate the sacredness of pleasure. Use this cycle to:
Explore sacred sex rituals such as Tantra or Kama Sutra, or create your own sex magic ritual.
Take a human sexuality class or write a sexual autobiography to understand more of how this sexual flame moves through you.
Create a new ritual for the moon cycles or even in your own daily routine, as a reminder of the many ways to connect to the sacred in everyday life.
As we prep for Mercury Retrograde in Pisces, the King of Wands Rx and the Queen of Cups Rx ask us to dive deeper into the dream without surrendering our personal power, says Brandon Alter … Cast using The Wild Unknown and the Prisma Visions Tarot
With Mercury poised to station direct tomorrow, author of Little Languaging Hacks for Big Change, Dani Katz, reveals 5 magic words you can use to shift your consciousness right now …
The subconscious mind is getting a lot of buzz these days, as the folks leading the personal development/human potential/manifest-your-best-life-ever movements have honed in on it as the method behind our proverbial madness (i.e. how and why humans operate the way we do).
You see, the subconscious mind is responsible for 95% of our decisions and behavior. It is the lens through which we organize our realities, as well as the command center that determines how our realties organize themselves; and it is programmed – first, foremost, and only – through words and repetition.
Words and repetition. Words and repetition. Words and repetition.
This factoid would be one thing if words were objectively neutral symbols, solely defined by intellectual connotation, singularly serving as symbolic reference points for the things and ideas they represent. Alas, words are infinitely more complex, multidimensional entities, each encrypted with a unique vibrational frequency that is itself coded with oodles of metadata that palpably affects our emotional, energetic and psychological bodies in subtle – and not so subtle – ways.
The words we use to communicate with others, as well as the ones running on the incessant loops in our heads as thoughts and self-talk, double as hyper-nuanced programming codes that serve to either empower or disempower us in every given moment. Every word matters, as the subconscious mind tracks and responds to each one we utter, think, type or scribble, without exception.
Quantum Languaging is a fun, simple method of deconstructing and perfecting the myriad ways, whys, and hows that words shape our every experience. I dive into lots of juicy and rollicking detail about it all in my new book, The New P. Handbook Vol. 1: Little Languaging Hacks for Big Change.
In service to up-leveling our lives and our world for the infinitely more wonderful, I offer up these five words we’d all be wise to wield on the regular …
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1// Choose We live in a world weighty with have-tos. We “have to” work, and make money, and floss, and kegel, and ground, and tap-in, to say nothing of the bills, and the paperwork, and the insurance premiums, and all the other matrix-y tasks that can really get a gal down, if she’s not mindful of how she’s framing her life.
The whole have-to paradigm is super disempowering, because it alleges that we are victims to external demands, and that we are enslaved to the tasks we are engaging.
This is where choice comes in. The reality is, we don’t actually have to do anything, ever. I can choose to skip flossing and kegeling, in exchange for gum disease, leaky pee sneezes, and mediocre sex. I can choose to skip my morning meditation, and let my mind run wild, and approach my day as a scattered, ungrounded, airy mess of discordant thoughts and vibrations.
It’s all a choice. I have free will. I can do whatever I want, as long as I understand that my actions have consequences. With that in mind, it is infinitely more empowering to frame these supposed have-tos as choices that we are willingly engaging as deliberate creators who are authoring our lives as we are authentically inspired.
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2// Thank you “Sorry,” blurts the woman I jostled while squeezing my way through a crowded party, even though I’m the one who bumped into her, and she’s the one with kombucha dripping down her hand.
For what, exactly, are you apologizing? I want to ask. For inhabiting a body? For placing it in my path? For existing?
Sorry vibrates at the frequency of sorrow, which means that every time we utter a senseless sorry, we are sprinkling sorrow vibes on our reality, and basically, bumming out the planet. To this end, a hearty Thank you is an infinitely wiser, more uplifting way to quell the sting of the oopsie, while acknowledging the awkwardness of the engagement.
When I observe the urge to apologize (which is so often a cleverly disguised excuse to self-flagellate), I will instead offer a simple Thank you, which serves to honor the person for showing up as a valuable reflection in service to my/our growth, while adding some levity to the situation. As in, Thank you for giving me an opportunity to witness my clumsiness, or Thank you for letting me accidentally touch your boob, and refresh your obviously parched wrist.
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3// As Languaging our intentions in the future is a great way not to manifest them. The subconscious mind is fully steeped in the present moment. So when we say we are “going to” do something, it takes our words to heart, and goes about putting off third dimensional realization for an imaginary future day that never actually comes.
Present moment languaging hacks the subconscious mind, and tricks it into collapsing the perceived distance between our future, and our now, thus bringing our desires into our material realities quickly and easily.
While there are lots of words that shift us from future-based craving to present moment experiencing, as is my current fave. As is affirmative; and it has the agency, the authority, and the mojo to move our manifestations from concept to reality, quickly and efficiently, because that’s how we do. It’s why I’m not going to fall in love when I open my heart; I am falling in love as I open my heart; and, I am not going to relish in all the opportunity and abundance that will come my way when I finish writing my book; I am enjoying all the spoils and wonderfulness flowing in as I write my #1 bestselling literary sensation.
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4// Historically Just as new p. (paradigm) superheroes choose to language our intentions in the present moment, we frame our shadows in the past, because we are not tethered to the trials, tribulations, hardships, or identity constructs that lead us to this present moment, and we certainly aren’t going to seed our futures with them.
We are sovereign beings, deliberately creating our realities in each and every moment, which we know to be fresh, and new, and rife with possibility. And so, while I have historically tended towards the clumsy, I am now embodying ever-expanding levels of bodily awareness and mastery that have me moving easily and gracefully through the world. And crowded house parties.
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5// Omniscopic om•ni•sco•pic adj.every moment access to every possibility that is, was or will be.
The word omniscopic is pretty much your new BFF. It’s a handy-dandy alternative to the words limitless and unlimited, which – despite their best intentions – only ever tether us to the frequencies of the “limitation” they profess not to espouse. Remember, the subconscious mind is super, very literal. This means that, well-meaning though our suffixes and prefixes may be, when they are employed, the subconscious mind latches onto the actual word these little guys are attempting to modify, and goes about organizing reality according to the very frequencies they claim to cancel out.
Luckily for us, language is an ever-unfolding work in progress. And so, having happened upon this gaping hole in our lexicon, I have taken it upon myself to toss some linguistic novelty into our collective mix by crafting this handy-dandy new word.
I recommend using it widely and often, while enjoying the spoils, sparkles, and giggles that come from living life as an empowered creator in a world of omniscopic abundance, and awesomeness. We’re welcome.
The 2018 Gemini Full Moon is a powerful opportunity to tune in to our environment, and let trust in abundant connection lead to compassionate communication, says Sandy Sitron …
Full Moon :: November 23 2018 :: 12:41 am EST :: 0 degrees Gemini
Listen to the blue jay sing. A splash of inspiring color against gray sky. But the bird is on attack. Caw caw caw. It scolds and picks with aggressive intensity. Then it takes flight and the whole interaction is forgotten.
On November 23rd, 2018, there’s a Full Moon in inquisitive, talkative Gemini. The Moon is opposite the Sun in truth-seeking Sagittarius.
There’s a potential to verbalize with this Full Moon. That drive to communicate can come through in different ways.
First of all, it’s fleeting (that’s something to be remembered in the midst of your next big conversation). What feels important is impermanent. Next, it’s vibrant. Fired up. A flash of interest, vitality, brightness. There is an urge to communicate with intensity.
That can result in sharing opinions that you’re not even sure you believe. Gemini likes to talk and Sagittarius likes to know. When it comes to conversation, who is listening? Notice an urge to nitpick or criticize, like the bossy blue jay. Maintain an airy sense of lightness. You can fly away from the conversation. You can let it go.
There are so many strands of information flying, so many truths to be determined with this expansive Full Moon. Be deliberate about the information you take in.Notice your environment. Who are you influenced by? Whose messages and opinions are seeping into your mental space?
If you aren’t deliberate, you’ll will find that you scatter your energy against the wind. This could happen through internet binges, continuously scrolling through social media, or asking for advice. How much do you want to take in?
The best results of this Full Moon energy come when you are driven by compassion. When in doubt, move through your world with an awareness that everything is interconnected.
The Moon in Gemini increases your desire for input. The Sun in Sagittarius pushes your ego to KNOW and to have your truth defined. This is an opposition of energies that can be solved by the T-square to Mars in Pisces. Translation? Take all of this cerebral processing and balance it with your drive to feel emotionally connected.
When your actions are guided by a feeling of continuous and universal love, all is well …
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Moon opposite Jupiter Bundles of flowers overwhelm the aisle. So much abundance, it’s hard to decide where it should all go. Of course that’s not a problem. Let yourself be lifted into a positive vibration by this radiant energy. You don’t have to maintain a limit on how much happiness you’ll allow. Notice if your joy is immediately followed by thoughts of worry and fear. If that happens, remind yourself that you really do get to be happy. Your joy won’t be counteracted. You won’t jinx yourself by talking about your good luck. And you aren’t taking up too much space. There’s always room for more flowers.
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Moon square Mars Ice skating. Just keep going and going. There doesn’t need to be friction. There’s so much movement in general with this Full Moon making a challenging angle to action planet Mars, and a slew of planets in mutable signs. Take up the pace you need to take. Go for it. Make all of your adjustments. Just remember to keep your center of balance. You don’t want to spin out of control. Mars is in Pisces, so your actions need to be filtered through a vibration of love and compassion. That will help it all mean something.
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The conversation starters below are to help you get deeper into what the 2018 Gemini Full Moon means for you. Find a friend and talk it out. For the most accurate reading, look to which house holds 0 degrees Gemini in your chart and use the prompt for that house. New to your birth chart? Calculate your chart for free HERE.
Aries / Aries Rising / Full Moon in the 3rd House “The question I would most like answered is …”
Taurus / Taurus Rising / Full Moon in the 2rd House “What feels delicious to me right now is …”
Gemini / Gemini Rising / Full Moon in the 1st House “I feel most confident in myself when I …”
Cancer / Cancer Rising / Full Moon in the 12th House “I am letting go of …”
Leo / Leo Rising / Full Moon in the 11th House “This time next year I will be …”
Virgo / Virgo Rising / Full Moon in the 10th House “My long-term career goals are …”
Libra / Libra Rising / Full Moon in the 9th House “The trip I am longing to take is …”
Scorpio / Scorpio Rising / Full Moon in the 8th House “I can’t stop obsessing about …”
Sagittarius / Sagittarius Rising / Full Moon in the 7th House “The most important relationship in my life right now is …”
Capricorn / Capricorn Rising / Full Moon in the 6th House “I am working hard each day to …”
Aquarius / Aquarius Rising / Full Moon in the 5th House “I feel like a kid again whenever I …”
Pisces / Pisces Rising / Full Moon in the 4th House “I can always care for myself by …”
With Mercury now retrograde, the 4 of Pentacles asks us to release from the rigid and make space for magic, says Sagittarius Season’s reader-in-residence, Brandon Alter … Cast using the Prisma Visions Tarot
As the new year draws ever closer, the 2018 Aquarius Waxing Moon wants us to step into our fullest power and make a radical stand for our mission-driven dreams, says Jennifer Racioppi …
Photo: Victor Rodriguez
Waxing Quarter Moon // November 15 2018 // 9.54 am ET // 23 degrees Aquarius
As the Sun moves through the fixed water sign Scorpio, and the last of the leaves find their way to the earth to decompose, the 2018 Aquarius Waxing Moon highlights transformation—especially as it relates to you rising on behalf of your mission-driven dreams.
With the Sun setting earlier and earlier, and 2019 becoming eerily closer each passing moment, the current astrological dance calls forth these transformations. Even for those on the other side of the world, where the Sun waxes instead of wanes, the essence of Scorpio season prevails; signifying a time to release limiting beliefs that hold us back from stepping into our full power.
The Aquarius Waxing Moon coincides with the end of Venus’ retrograde journey and the beginning of Mercury’s final backward spin of the year—stimulating radical action on behalf of your most heart-driven goals. Given that Mars’ and Venus’ respective retrograde cycles have commanded heavy doses of emotional sobriety, 2018 closes out with all of us feeling way more conscious and aware! Especially when it comes to understanding the extent to which we still live in a racist world, the fragility of our environment, and some of the bypassing undertones that infiltrate spiritual communities.
This Waxing Quarter Moon boldly highlights both how far we’ve come AND how much further we have yet to go …
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//The Cycle// This Waxing Quarter Moon marks the halfway point between the Scorpio New Moon and upcoming Gemini Full Moon. On the most basic level, it asks us to recommit to the goals and intentions we set just a week ago when the Sun and Moon aligned at 15 degrees of Scorpio.
From a more nuanced perspective, however, this Waxing Moon directly relates to the energy of the Lunar New Year, and the New Moon in Aquarius on Feb 15, 2018. Aquarius, the sign of futuristic visioning, represents dreams, ideas, and collaborations. What were you dreaming of 9 months ago? Now’s the time to assess the progress you have (or haven’t) made on behalf of your deepest heart’s desires.
Then, ask yourself this: Are my goals helping to bring this world to a better place? Am I (sincerely) leading with love? Am I striving to create more equality, inclusion, and justice? How can I make my personal growth journey more socially aware so I can contribute on a higher level to society in general?
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//The Transits// This Waxing Quarter Moon also conjoins Mars, who has spent an extended period in Aquarius due to his retrograde journey—the sign that represents progressive, global, values. Mars’ retrograde cycle happens approximately once every two years and asks us to eradicate self-serving ambitions. Since the Waxing Moon and Mars both trine Venus as she wakes up from her retrograde cycle, this particular cosmic moment highlights the need for societal change even more.
Venus has two phases, an “evening star” position, and a “morning star” position. When she’s in evening star, she rises as the Sun sets and is in her receptive position. When she’s in her morning star position, as she is right now, she rises before the Sun and is in her most fierce, righteous, phase. Venus, now awakening from her retrograde journey and rising before the Sun, pushes us to go after our values, beliefs, and dreams.
And given that she’s receiving a beam of support from both the Moon and Mars as she stations direct, it’s time to own humanitarian values—fully commit to your determination to make positive changes in the world. Venus, after all, relates to love. In her morning star position, she stations direct in Libra, a cardinal air sign that fiercely stands for justice. Use this to your advantage, and go after radical progress on your dreams!
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//The Square// With the Sun in Scorpio squaring the Moon in Aquarius, we could find part of ourselves stubbornly resisting progress. Both Scorpio and Aquarius are fixed signs after all, and neither readily acquiesce. “Radical change” might feel impossible—if even desirable! With Mars in the mix, we might feel moody, possibly even a little aggressive/passive-aggressive. Depending on the level of consciousness we bring to the day, we might even feel defensive. On the plus side, Scorpio, beckons profound truth, while Aquarius is a sign that pushes us into alignment with our values. With positive self-talk and a righteous commitment to our values, we can find the necessary conviction to step out of our demise and into our resurrection.
The best approach? Use the friction of the square to give yourself a reality check. If you find yourself feeling defensive, name it. If you feel angry, express it. Then tap into the energy of Venus stationing direct and commit to your becoming. Make a vow to offer your journey and growth to the betterment of the world. Choose to face your future, as opposed to your past and your pain.
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//The Opportunity// This Aquarius Waxing Quarter Moon, packed tight with nuanced astrological meaning, punctuates a long and winding road of retrograde challenges. Thankfully with Venus on the eve of her direct station, forming an ideal angle to both the Moon and Mars, we can use this opportunity to go high and trust in a radical leap forward.
Review the progress you’ve made over the last nine months, or since Venus went retrograde on October 5th. Or even since the Scorpio New Moon that happened last week. Use this as a springboard for your next big leap. As the Sun wanes and nature decomposes, trust that it’s leading you to your rebirth. This energy will magnify even more in the days following the December 21 Winter Solstice. For now, stay in your strength, and remain committed to the life you most want to live.
2018’s cosmic curriculum commanded maturity. The heavy retrograde activity overhauled mindless ambition, highlighting vapid behaviors, and asking all of us to embrace emotional sobriety and get to work on behalf of the world. Now’s the time to embody what you’ve learned. We are all in this together!
Discover more about astrologer and success coach Jennifer Racioppi and her work HERE and follow her on Instagram.
As Mercury prepares to station direct, the King of Swords urges us to speak a powerful truth that starts in the heart and rocks the world around us, says this month’s reader-in-residence, Lindsay Mack …
Lindsay’s Soul Tarot School is now open for enrollment too. An 8-week deep-dive into a lifetime’s Tarot wisdom, learn to read the cards for your own soul’s evolution an take your practice to the next level. Class begins October 4—check out all the details and reserve your space HERE!
As a powerful pair of eclipses sets the disco ball of radical release in motion during Leo Season 2018, Mercury retrograde is beckoning us back-to-the-future as we reckon with past patterns might have thought were long gone. And with Mars also retro, and Venus poised to enter the pastel sunsets of an aspirational love affair with Libra, we’re being asked to negotiate time and forgiveness in an entirely new way.
Navigating these energies means opening ourselves more and more fully to the belief that what is truly ours will always come back for more of us. That the more tender we become, the more the world softens to catch our hopeful leaps of faith. Leo season 2018 reminds us that on the strobelit spiral of life, all endings are new beginnings …
Listen to the full LeoSeason2018 report from Numi resident astrologers Bess + Sandy HERE and use Bess’ cosmic crib sheet to get the quick and dirty on the season’s 4 key astro events …
The Sun’s journey through Leo reminds us to harness the sheer thrill of being alive, right here, right now. Let HBO’s Gorgeous Ladies Of Wrestling reignite your faith in the juicy exuberance of fighting for your right to attend the party, even in moments of seemingly perilous battle. Get inspo from the full range of bodies bouncing and flying through the ring, clad in over-the-top looks fit for a Leonine queen.
Tell it to your heart, tell it you’re the only one … book a private karaoke booth and sing it straight from your soul to your solo self, or a small group of friends. Mercury Retrograde in Leo wants us to talk as tenderly as possible to the most hopeful and romantic parts of our inner selves. Personal love letters set to a bubblegum pop beat are the perfect way to start the internal conversation.
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Eclipse Season Summer 2018 (Full Moon Total Lunar Eclipse in Aquarius 7.27; New Moon Partial Solar Eclipse in Leo 8.11) // Eclipse Season Playlist
This pair of eclipses offers up the potential for sloughing off old snake skins that have kept us from shining our fullest, megawatt luminescence. But rather than burning it down to the ground to break with the past, LeoSeason 2018 reminds us that our greatest gifts lie in our present passions. Trust fall into the sense that what’s yours will boomerang straight into your arms with a playlist built for dancing back to the future.
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Venus in Libra (8.6-9.9) // First Kisses
Pure pleasure seeker Venus is right at home alongside Libra’s aspirational idealism, and her transit through this cardinal air sign reminds us that we’re made to dream this dream together. Revisit your fairytale visions of romance, at the same time as you open yourself to the reality of the beautiful humans standing right here in front of you.
Listen to Numinous resident astrologers Bess Matassa and Sandy Sitron discuss the cosmic landscape of Leo Season 2018 in our latest Astrocast podcast …
With Merc going retro and Venus in Taurus, Aries season 2018 is a time to plot your course for the long haul, says Bess Matassa. PLUS listen to our all new Astrocast Aries season podcast from Bess and Sandy Sitron!
Sidle up to the starting block, astro babes. AriesSeason 2018 finds us ready to begin again and again, as we recommit to saying HELL YES to our very existence on Earth, and summon all of our courage to recapture the innocent sensation of full-throttle living.
But this isn’t any old backyard BBQ. With MERCURY stationing retrograde (March 22—April 15), SATURN making a stand (April 2), and country crooner VENUS in Taurus (March 31—April 24) asking us to roll in the hay, the theme this month is SLOW MOTION.
While it may feel like every last second demands sweat-drenched participation and lightening speed action, this is actually an astro season to crack yourself open for the long haul, and to find small pauses of rest inside all of the rapid firing.
Can you rise to meet the red-hot NOW, moment by moment, as it asks you to cuddle up for a steady unfolding? Can you trust so deeply in your internal competence that your mantra becomes “no more proving?”
We’ve got an overview of the key aspects for Aries Season 2018 below, including ways to activate them in your life. PLUS you can listen to the full AriesSeason 2018 ASTROCAST PODCAST from Numi resident astrologers Bess + Sandy HERE!
**And be sure to check out our first ever Numiversity Astrology Course: A TOTAL GUIDE TO YOUR MARS SIGN. Complete with custom astro info for your sign, hypnosis, tarot, and more!
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SUN ENTERS ARIES (March 20-April 19) // Jumpsuits
Originally designed for parachuters and race-car drivers, and popularized by WWII women factory workers nicknamed “riveting Rosies,” this minimalist fashion piece is an aesthetic embodiment of AriesSeason 2018. Strip it down, keep it simple, and streamline how you use your life force in the world. Aries is the premiere “masculine,” penetrating force in the zodiac, but when it reaches its highest octave of expression, this is aligned, responsive action that broadens the notion of libido to encompass all of our creative powers. Jump for your own love!
MERCRY RETROGRADE (March 22-April 15) // Power Poses
Retrogrades ask us to invite the planet’s energy inside our own private lair, and this Mercury Rx in Aries is all about letting our internal cheerleader take the lead as we revise our inner pep talks, and become our own preciously pom-pommed fan club. Work those rallying cries with some Power Poses in the bathroom before you head out into the world. Want the scoop on why this really works? Check out body language expert Amy Cuddy’s cult TED talk.
VENUS IN TAURUS (March 31- April 24) // Chris De Burgh’s “Lady in Red”
Dancing cheek-to-cheek to this prom anthem reveals everything you need to know about this season’s partnership between the Aries Sun and Venus in Taurus. While Aries energy is usually rapid fire pyrotechnics, mixed with the liquid chocolate stylings of pleasure seeking Venus in Taurus, the rhythm is both exuberantly innocent teen romance and the hard-earned experience of wedding dances through the years. Turn the lights down low, slip into a cherry sundae colored ensemble, and channel both fresh cut beginnings and timeless embraces.
Amidst ice and rain and wind, we’re braving our bodies against the bedrock with this aspect. How do you manage your life force? How can you open up to the sensation of sometimes excruciatingly slow movement, step by precious step? Can you even find delicious softness inside of enormous difficulty, as you summon your deepest wells of self-sufficiency? Tap into the wilderness survival school of Strayed’s epic PCT hike, and if you’re not ready for the long-haul, start with a meditative walk around your own neighborhood.
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Aries is ruled by red planet MARS—the celestial body that governs our passion, energy and drive. Check out our new digital course, A TOTAL GUIDE TO YOUR MARS SIGN, to discover everything you need to know about your Mars placement, and how to channel this fire power in your life!
As we prep for the Spring Equinox’s explosive fire, the Sagittarius Waning Quarter Moon wants us to sit with over-the-top emotions, and let the flames of feeling lead to powerful change, says Jennifer Racioppi …
Waning Quarter Moon // March 9 2018 // 6:18am EST // 18 degrees Sagittarius
As the Moon wanes back to new, we find ourselves at the halfway point between the most recent Full Moon in mutable Virgo and the upcoming New Moon in mutable Pisces.
Mutable signs correlate with a seasonal shift; they help us transition from stable and steady, fixed influences, into new beginnings. So as we embrace the Waning Quarter Moon in mutable fire sign Sagittarius—and with less than two weeks before the upcoming Equinox—lean into the winds of transformation!
Let the power of fire purify your soul. Let go of what you don’t need and burn, baby, burn.
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// The Cycle // The current Waning Quarter Moon harkens all the way back to December 11, 2015. This late 2015 Sagittarius New Moon seeded events coming to fruition now. What’s culminating in your life now based on intentions set or decisions made then?
Beyond the lunar cycle, Mercury and Jupiter’s retrograde cycles are at play right now too. On March 8, Jupiter, the planet of good luck and good fortune, begins his retrograde journey in Scorpio until July 10. Jupiter retrograde in Scorpio will expose lies, and superficial tendencies that serve ego at the expense of soul.
Mercury, also in his retrograde shadow at this time, brings things to light that will require work and reevaluation during his upcoming retrograde journey in Aries from March 22—April 15. With Mercury soon to station retrograde, use this Waning Quarter Moon to really get clear on what you need to let go of!
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// The Transits // As Mars in Sagittarius squares Chiron in Pisces, the masculinequalities of action come up against the influence of allowing. This may present as a healing crisis through which a wound becomes a teacher.
Yet with Mars in an angle of tremendous support to Uranus, breakthroughs abounds. Expect healing to redirect your path. And with Pluto sextile the Sun and Jupiter, this Sagittarius Waning Quarter Moon suggests that you can discern fact from fiction. Hear. Listen. Absorb. Integrate. And most importantly, trust yourself.
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// The Square// With the Moon traveling through go-big-or-go-home Sagittarius squaring the Sun in soft, sensitive Pisces, this Moon might come with over-the-top emotions.
While the Sun in dreamy Pisces might shy away from anything aggressive or assertive, the Sagittarius Moon is bold and blunt. This Waning Quarter Moon asks you to do two things: sit with uncomfortable emotions and then find an outlet for excess energy.
There’s power in those emotions. Letting energy move through you brings the magic you need.
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// The Opportunity // As we approach the upcoming Equinox and first Mercury retrograde journey of 2018, this Sagittarius Waning Quarter Moon is a preparatory crossroads. Take in where you are. Stay conscious of what’s surfacing now, as it will likely play into the emerging Mercury retrograde curriculum.
Learning how to sit with emotions (Pisces) and simultaneously move through them (Sagittarius) will prep you for these cosmic transitions. Magic becomes possible as you treat this Quarter Moon crossing with the respect of a shamanic initiation.
Discern lies and shadow, and move through the illusions that limit your potential. You’ll emerge with clarity and readiness for the changes ahead.
For more Moon wisdom or to book a coaching session with Jennifer visit Jenniferracioppi.com. And to learn more about how to work with each Moon phase, check out Moon Club, our community of lunar-loving cosmic change makers!
August 7, 2017 :: Full Moon Lunar Eclipse :: 15 degrees Aquarius August 21, 2017 :: New Moon Solar Eclipse :: 28 degrees Leo August 25, 2017 :: Saturn stations direct August 12- September 5th, 2017 :: Mercury Retrograde
The only constant is change—and during the August 2017 cosmic craziness, massive change is upon us.
Mercury retro will only sweeten the Eclipse Season pot. While this retrograde often gets a bad name, it’s actually a critical time to slow down, and connect deeply with the internal, intuitive voice that supports our soul’s growth. It’s potent medicine for those of us who live in the frenzy of go-go-go!
Thankfully, the August 7 Full Moon Eclipse positively aspects Jupiter—the planet of good luck, fortune, and abundance. This combo suggests that while this period is unpredictable in nature, benevolence still abounds.
The August 21 New Moon Eclipse trines Uranus, and will be responsible for MAJOR breakthroughs and a shift in power. At the end of the month, we’ll find ourselves in very different circumstances on a personal, and maybe even political, level. Given how close the Sun will be traveling to Mars, things will move fast regardless of Mercury in retrograde.
So move forward fearlessly, but do so with a deep connection to your WHY, and your key personal values. Keep on open mind, and understand that the only constant is change.
Now’s not the time to hold the reins too tight or overreact to anything. Mind your thoughts, words, and actions. Stay centered and focused on what matters most. Let the rest go!
For more Moon wisdom or to book a coaching session with from Jennifer visit Jenniferracioppi.com
Eclipses are like turning off the internet router and then restarting it. Few people understand why this makes the wifi work again—but it always does!
The focus of the August 2017 eclipse season “reset” is on your inner King or Queen archetype. Leo, king of the jungle, is on the hunt within you—helping you flush out your confidence, worth, and purpose. It’s time to refocus on the core principles that keep you balanced.
Begin with an in-depth review of the last 6 months.Look for the moments when you felt as if you gave your authority away. Notice the King’s shadow archetypes of the Tyrant and Weakling, and be very gentle with yourself if you notice fear, aggression, and insecurity coming up within you.
This review period will be supported by a number of other astrological events. Starting August 3rd, Uranus takes a review period to help you make changes internally. On August 12th, Mercury retrograde asks you to remember what you forgot. Saturn lurches forward again and inspires you to get to work on August 25th.
The king doesn’t have to prove himself. He’s born into it.What are you born into? What is your spiritual birthright? Where can you turn up the volume on confidence, worth, and purpose in your life? How can you survey your kingdom and shine brilliantly out into the world?
Want more wisdom? Check out Sandra’s SATURN RETURN WORKSHOP, a 7-week course for navigating your Saturn Return that’s available through midnight August 4 2017. You can also book a reading with Sandra here or follow her on Instagram.
With all the fire in the sky this month, it’s important to consider the two extreme expressions of Leo energy: as symbolized by the Thoth Tarot card “Lust,” and the Rider-Waite Tarot card “Strength.”
Both rule Leo, but one card has our passions so inflamed that we are naked with lust, riding a lion, not paying attention to where we are going. The strength card has us taming the same lion, and he’s calm and cool but ready to strike if needed.
To help contain the fire, we need the rich mineral soil of earth; Saturn direct helps us learn that we only have so much time and energy. The August 2017 eclipse season helps us harness this energy to break our own hearts open, burn off what’s no longer useful, and create space to feel deeper layers of authenticity and true innovation—using the rational, Aquarian energy that balances Leo season.
Working with both Saturn and Uranus during the August 2017 eclipse season time allows us to tap into a more holistic and effortlessly creative existence, so we can truly write our own story—andtransform from selfish savage to selfless hero. The more we can create from this place, whether through art, business, or our communities, the more we can empower both ourselves and those around us …
Danielle Paige “There is no good or bad. There is no fluff. You’ve signed up for these fated events …”
So, what’s an eclipse anyway?Eclipses mark a major shift in the electromagnetic field. And because we are all energetic beings, we will all feel … something. Whether it’s up, down, hyper, sad, emotional, ungrounded … these feelings will be accompanied by an urgency for change.
How can you tell if the major August 21st eclipse will affect your chart?Calculate your chart for free HERE and look to any planets or points within 3-4 degrees of 28 degrees of Leo, or in aspect to that degree (especially squares, oppositions, conjunctions, and trines). Thankfully, eclipses don’t directly aspect everyone’s charts because if they did, we’d be completely overwhelmed by major changes every 6 months! However, we all have Leo somewhere in our charts, so some kind of shift WILL occur …
Look at which house is ruled by Leo, for an indication as to the area of life most affected by the August 21 eclipse.
If there is a direct aspect to this eclipse in my chart, what’s going to happen to me? Whatever planet is involved with 28 degrees of Leo is getting “eclipsed,” which means it’s time to change how that planet’s energy is used. Sometimes it’s an obvious change like the end of a relationship or a work shift, but sometimes it’s less obvious inner work. Regardless, it’s your chance to move up the spiritual ladder.
The August 2017 eclipse season reminds us there is no good or bad. You’ve simply signed up for these fated events in order to move you along your spiritual path (a.k.a. your life!)
How long will this take? Is it just happening on the day of the eclipse? Give it time. There may have been a build-up to a decision made on this date, and / or events may unfold over the following 6 months. Sometimes it takes a year or more for the impact of an eclipse to be fully realized. Combined with Mercury retro, some of the events will likely be delayed until the end of September/beginning of October.
One thing is for sure: the August 2017 eclipse season is a big turning point for us all, individually and as a collective. Stay open to the excitement and know that there’s nothing to fear!
To find out more about how Danielle can use your personal birth chart to help you discover and heal your inner blocks, and find your purpose, follow her on Instagram, join her private Facebook Group, and book a reading HERE!
Art: Paul Tuccillo
Bess Matassa “Grit, glory, and the gamble of experience …”
Fire up your muscles, slip into your most aerodynamic leotard, and get ready to take your passion and make it happen.
With Mercury retro in earthy Virgo and Saturn stationing direct, the smoking hot Flashdance sensations of August’s celestial landscape are a very particular brand of Rust Belt fire. Think welding, forging, and sweating it out for the sweet steel work of finally birthing our dreams into physical form.
As our wildest visions incarnate into brick and mortar, it can feel like both a loss and a find.The hot tar of our individualistic Leonine souls has to adjust to the shape of the collective’s Aquarian road. We are asked to rise early woken by our individual will, pack our lunchboxes well, sharpen our tools, and step into the Olympic training gyms again, and again.
So sidle up to the starting block in your neon leg warmers and sparkling new sweat bands and flex muscles that have been lifetimes in the making. Feel deeply into the storehouse of your blood and your bones. And then crank up your silver-studded boombox, step into the floodlights, give it up, and turn it loose. All bets are off. And in a world made of equal parts steel and rhinestone, you’ve got nothing to lose.
August 2017 Eclipse Season Mantra: My heart is a muscle and it’s time to get to work. Theme Song: Irene Cara’s What a Feeling Style: Jazzercise meets boardroom bizness. Bodysuits paired with high-waisted pants, high ponytails, studded earrings, metallic statement pieces, and steely blue eye makeup. Flavors: Stripped down fortifiers that build good bones; tall glasses of coconut milk, dark leafy greens, and piping hot spicy stir-fry cooked in cast iron woks.
Want more juicy cosmic insights and sensory explorations? Arrange an astrology reading or private event with Bess here or follow her on Instagram.
