Category: Current Astrology

December’s Mercury Retrograde: Phantom Redial

~ EmpwrdDstny ~ 1 Comment

The upcoming Mercury Retrograde in December promises to be more interesting than most for a few reasons – there are many nuanced and in-your-face energetic layers in the mix at the time this retrograde kicks off (December 3, 2017), but for the purposes of this post right now I’ll stick to discussing the components that give a broader and unique context on what’s really going on.  There’s something more significant playing out underneath all of this besides the normal Mercury Rx communication glitches and don’t-sign-anything caveats…

One factor that makes *this particular* Mercury Retrograde period unusual is due to its kickoff overlapping with the Gemini (i.e. a Mercury-ruled) Full Moon; a mere 8 hours separates these twin events! Uncanny as it is to see double the Mercurial energy in the astrological air at the same time, there’s an important subtext inherent in this by virtue of the fact the Full Moon also falls along a degree of the zodiac sensitized by last year’s Saturn/Neptune Square. The Sun is lighting up 12 degrees Sagittarius; almost exactly the same spot Saturn occupied on June 17, 2016 when the Saturn/Neptune Square perfected for the second time.  This being a Full Moon, the Moon of course sits opposite the Sun at 12 degrees Gemini while Neptune – having recently turned Direct – squares both luminaries from essentially the same place it did in the middle of last year when Saturn was on the scene instead.

What’s really going to bake your noodle, though, is the fact Mercury (which we remember is the ruler of the aforementioned Full Moon that is reigniting the energetic residue of the Saturn/Neptune Square) weaves back and forth between a conjunction to Saturn and a square to Neptune during its upcoming retrograde!  Again we’re seeing an astrological imprint of the Saturn/Neptune Square’s reverberations – during this entire retrograde period, it’s as if Mercury is acting as an intermediary to bring us some sort of message from mid 2016. Basically, in December we’re all collectively getting a phantom redial from the Saturn/Neptune Square where weird messages from the past may send their ghost-like echoes into our Now.

What does all of this translate to?  December is going to be a real temporal vortex of a month for one – we may well receive some kind of (literal or figurative) call or message from the mid-June 2016 era.  What’s the memo, exactly?  It will vary for each person but this entire Mercury retrograde phase (all of December & into the beginning of January) should be thought of as a sort of wrinkle in time connecting that period to our present somehow. Think about what was going on in your life in the middle of last year to get an idea of the theme this retrograde may have in store for you.  Geopolitically, this should ring some major bells – Brexit happened during this time and I will not be surprised to see more news on this topic hitting in a big way very shortly.

We should also be aware this may be a collect call (LOL, I just realized youngsters won’t have any concept of what this is!) – metaphorically speaking, it will be good to think twice if something comes up for our review during this period to make sure there isn’t any toll (read: lesson) we’ll have to accept if we answer.  For example, if the Saturn/Neptune Square in June of 2016 manifested as major disillusionment regarding a parent, mentor, authority figure, or spiritual leader and suddenly December comes around and we hear through the grapevine this very same individual has been asking about us, is it really worth picking up the receiver for them? Think carefully about any kind of “sequel” situations arising this month – often the second movie isn’t as good as the first. And if the first sucked, well….it’s not likely to get much better with time, let’s put it that way.

Now the “memo” Mercury brings us in December may not necessarily be a “repeat” kind of situation as mentioned above; it could also simply represent a cosmic communiqué regarding where we may have erred during the Saturn/Neptune Square of 2016. For example, perhaps we were excessively Saturn; too closed/self-limiting/defensive/pessimistic/ambitious/overworked/cautious (pick any or all that apply). Or maybe we were OD-ing on Neptune’s denial/escapism/fantasizing/delusions/self-martyrdom. From a cognitive POV, Mercury will be letting us know which mentalities are holding us back so we can make revisions accordingly during this time. Mercury represents a “both/and” rather than an “either/or” influence so we’re intellectually integrating the Saturnian principles of wisdom, practicality, maturity, responsibility, and structure with the Neptunian concepts of intuition, imagination, compassion, spirituality, and free-flowingness so we’re neither excessively earthbound nor living in La La Land building castles in the air.

11/29/2017

Antares In The News

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LOL, NASA scientists love kicking sand in the direction of astrology and yet somehow just as cosmic courier Mercury (known as the Messenger Planet for a reason!) aligns with Fixed Star Antares, they elect to launch an “Antares” rocket to carry supplies up to the International Space Station. Coincidence? I think not!  Astrologically, Mercury also = news and it sure is awfully funny that we have headlines hitting about “Antares” as a result of Mercury’s conjunction with said star/NASA’s hijinks.

Eye see you, NASA – you knew what you were doing there! 👁😉

And PS: You might want to wait until it escapes that square with Neptune.

11/11/17

Mutual Reception: Venus In Scorpio, Mars in Libra

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With Venus now settled into Scorpio for the next 3 ½ weeks, we now have a mutual reception between Venus and Mars in place! Mars is the Traditional ruler of Scorpio and with the Red Planet currently traversing Venus’s Libra kingdom while Venus herself occupies his Scorpio domain, this creates an energy exchange even though the two planets aren’t otherwise linked.

What might we expect from this Venus/Mars mutual reception? Well this energy can be a bit problematic for both sexes since “men are from Mars/women are from Venus” and both planets are debilitated in the signs they’re currently occupying. Very generally speaking, men are apt to be more acquiescing while women adopt a more “take no prisoners” approach. Overall this vibe can have a rather “genderbent” kind of feel to it and reversals of stereotypical gender roles in relationships may become more common. This mutual reception can also evoke a “War of the Roses” vibe so do remember this if in the midst of a contentious split and divvying up possessions/assets.

That’s not all, though – the current mutual reception between Venus in Scorpio and Mars in Libra may elicit power struggles in relationships. For best results, focus energy instead on sharing/taking turns/mutual compromise. This duo is also quite lusty and amps up amorous attraction between individuals; while passionate, there is a hazard of leading into a relationship with sex because of this. And as I am fond of saying, chemistry does not necessarily equal compatibility; sometimes it’s like oil and water! More broadly, turbulence in partnerships may be denoted by this pairing; be this for business or pleasure.

The takeaway is to tread a bit more lightly in relationships than we otherwise would for the next few weeks. Thankfully this mutual reception doesn’t last too long and once it’s gone Mars will be in a powerhouse position while Venus receives a lighter, more uplifting boost. And it’s not as if the *entire* mutual reception period is problematic; the trickiest days will be circa Nov 19th as Mars squares Pluto and at the very end of the month near Nov 30th as Mars opposes Uranus just as this mutual reception comes to a close. Think of it more as prevailing scenery that sometimes interacts with us; like the apple-throwing trees in The Wizard of Oz.  😝

11/07/2017

Jupiter In Scorpio: The Joy Of Sex

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One of the many perks of Jupiter’s year-long passage through Scorpio is that it does herald a boost for bedroom-related matters! There’s an intimate openness about Jupiter in this sign that encourages exploration and helps us truly (re?)connect with the Joy of Sex.  I don’t just mean the purely mechanical biological components of it, either – we’re talking the total, erm, package. Forgive the unintentional pun, but I mean to convey it encompasses so much more than the physiological part of the equation; we’re talking everything – sexual politics, views, beliefs, philosophies, paradigms, the honesty with which we approach sexual matters; all our naked Truths about sex & sexuality, basically. It also presents an opportunity for stripped-down candor where we can disrobe in every sense of the word, so promotes true intimacy *beyond* the mere corporeal.  This, in turn, may create a positive feedback loop that can serve as a natural bedroom enhancement – when there’s deeper layers of trust, understanding, & tolerance, we’re certainly apt to be more generous in the sack.

It’s important to understand that Jupiter in Scorpio correlates to psychological growth as well, and if there’s been something buried in our psyche that prevents a happy and fulfilling sex life, the therapeutic process can be an enormous benefit to us during this time. Initially this may present as the trauma in question being magnified for us in some way – for example, in the wake of the  recent huge Jupiter-in-Scorpio news about high-profile sexual predators like Weinstein & Toback et al,  a massive glut of unpleasant stuff has indeed been blown up in the collective psyche regarding such matters.  As triggering and disturbing as it may be for these kinds of horrible truths to come to light, Jupiter always offers the opportunity for improvement. So if we’ve been hiding a Truth that has deeply and perhaps perniciously impacted our most private and intimate beliefs about sex and sexuality, there’s a chance for us to also transmute this through understanding into a lighter, less dense state.  Through no fault of our own, sometimes the soul becomes infected with malicious operating scripts that taint our enjoyment and happiness – with Scorpio being the sex sign, this is especially so in the bedroom. However, this passage presents an opportune moment to open up regarding taboo subject matter such as this in order to offer us renewed hope and optimism.  It’s important to remember that even out of evil circumstances, something powerfully good can emerge.  So if something has psychologically contaminated the Joy of Sex for us, it behooves us to explore how we might enhance this area of our lives for the better.

11/02/2017

Jupiter In Scorpio: Out Of “Evil”, Something Powerfully Good Emerges

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The next few weeks may have some bittersweet blessings in store as Jupiter in Scorpio is joined by the Sun on October 26, 2017 and then Venus on November 13, 2017. The first 10 degrees of Scorpio are going to see some action, affecting not only those with planets or points in this area of the zodiac but also anyone who has placements within this degree range of any of the other Fixed signs (Taurus, Leo, Aquarius), Water signs (Cancer & Pisces), or Earth signs (Taurus, Virgo, Capricorn). There’s something for just about everyone it seems, and although the circumstances arising near these times may seem ill-fated it will be important to bear in mind the larger anchoring influence of Jupiter in Scorpio underpinning these conjunctions means that even out of something “evil”, something powerfully good can emerge.

In just a few days’ time the Scorpio Sun will join with Jupiter right in between the 3 and 4 degree mark of this sign, signifying an opportunity for some deep and possibly psychologically-oriented growth to occur. While this energy may indicate it happening as the result of some kind of loss (because Jupiter in Scorpio will tend to magnify losses and endings), this alignment does have a “let go to gain” kind of feel so it will be important *not* to be consumed by the perspective of what is gone/passing from our lives now. Believe instead that it all works out for the best in the end – sometimes, even a craptastic ending can be better than stagnation. If something in our lives is/has become toxic, it’s better that it be allowed to pass from our lives so we can devote more of our energy to moving onward & upward. As a general FYI, legal matters, collegiate issues, religious/moral/political concerns, as well as in-law relationships (if applicable) tend to take on increased emphasis during this time and may indeed be where this “letting go” is called for. Mind you there certainly *can* be more outright positive manifestations of this energy, as any Sun/Jupiter conjunction brings the phrase “I’d rather be lucky than good” to mind and sometimes we don’t have to choose because we’re blessed to be both. However, the turbulent nature of Scorpio – though incredibly insightful – tends to bring a darker hue to this conjunction’s blessings, cloaking them and perhaps causing them to seem invisible to those who don’t know where to look (Hint: Inward is always a good direction when Scorpio is involved).

The conjunction of Venus with Jupiter in Scorpio happens just a few weeks later at 7 degrees of this sign. Even with Venus debilitated in the sign of her Detriment it’s hard to deny the positive facets of both benefics being teamed up like this, though the vibe may indeed carry a rather “bittersweet” flavor overall. Venus in Scorpio is the magnetic Feminine, attracting complex but enriching, growth-oriented scenarios when it comes to relationships or finances. From a fiscal point of view Venus/Jupiter pairings can be lucrative, though again because we are dealing with Scorpio energy there can be a loss/ending theme prompting this. Some examples of this can run the gamut from a large inheritance to a sizable divorce settlement or anything else that would involve taking a loss for greater material gain. Another facet of Venus/Jupiter pairings is its gluttonous vice for extravagance, and the underlying Scorpio vibe can bring a covetous feel to the equation; like someone maxing out their credit cards or going into debt with a big (balloon??) loan for some kind of massive expenditure. An actual investment that has calculated ROI is one thing, but we must remember that with these planets all ruled by Pluto in Capricorn, taking on any kind of “dumb debt” is a definite “no”!

As far as the love end of this equation goes, things can get complicated when Venus is in Scorpio and even moreso with Jupiter boosting this. On one hand this pairing can magnify dysfunctional relationship dynamics with the hope of improving the alliance as we increase our level of insight, especially around areas involving sharing, fairness, money, possessiveness, and/or power/control issues. This conjunction may also facilitate an opportunity for us to put our chips “all in” regarding a partnership and help us uncover the true meaning of “intimacy” in a union. It won’t be easy but the right synergistic alchemy between partners can facilitate massive growth, empowerment, and transformation for both parties, though again this may come at some kind of expense. Perhaps it will entail letting go of a (toxic?) union to facilitate greater, more fertile space for a better one to enter in the future. At its best this conjunction can attract a partner/partnership that intimidates us in a *good* way; where we are more *together* than just the sum of our parts and share the philosophy that leveling up means we must “root down to rise up” from deep within. But first it may well entail getting intimately acquainted with our more dysfunctional beliefs about love…

10/22/2017

Your Jupiter In Scorpio Playlist

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Queue up the NIN; this 13-month long passage of Jupiter through Scorpio totally has a “Heresy” feel to it in my mind!

“He sewed his eyes shut
Because he is afraid to see.
He tries to tell me
What I put inside of me.
He’s got the answers
To ease my curiosity.
He dreamed a god up
And called it Christianity.

God is dead
And no one cares.
If there is a hell
I’ll see you there.”      -Heresy, by Nine Inch Nails (NIN)

 
Why do I say this?  See the following excerpt from my October 2017 newsletter:

“…there is a polarizing dynamic regarding this placement that tends to express as zealot or heretic with little-to-no in between – it’s a placement of passionate intensity as it pertains to religious, political, and cultural views that can veer toward rather extreme philosophies or, conversely, deeply resentful of dogma/conservatism/fundamentalism. Jupiter in Scorpio represents the metaphorical (moral or philosophical) “hill” we are willing to “die” on, and one thing is for sure while we’re under its influence: We’re not apt to be lukewarm about what we believe at all…”

Now do you see why I deliberately chose the song above, LOL? Regardless of whether or not Nine Inch Nails is your preferred cup of tea, one facet of Jupiter in Scorpio is indeed sacrilegious; it’s where we hold the Sacred Cow up for slaughter. We may indeed be tempted to preach some taboo Truths during this transit, and certain sects will be threatened by the publication of these “secret gospels” – just ask sexual predator-at-large Harvey Weinstein.  It may be ugly, but that doesn’t mean it’s false – those shouting “Blasphemy!” do well to remember this.

10/17/2017

Welcome, Jupiter In Scorpio!

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Grab your popcorn & turn off all the lights; we’ve got a real Thriller of a 13 month-long astro-passage on our hands starting…now!

Jupiter amps things up; in Scorpio it magnifies the “Halloween” vibe and extends it for an entire year+. If you read my October newsletter, then you already know some of the key themes you might expect from this energy. If you didn’t….well, you’ll just have to find out; hopefully *before* it’s too late, mwahahaha! 👿 😉  I’m joking, BTW (in case it wasn’t obvious) – nothing terrible will befall you & this transit is actually more “Creepy Comedy” (à la The Addams Family) than straight-up Thriller, though it will certainly have its moments!

10/10/2017

Repost: The Mercury/Venus Mutual Reception

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The Mercury/Venus Mutual Reception: Mercury will be in Libra; Venus in Virgo.
The Mercury/Venus Mutual Reception: Mercury is in Libra; Venus in Virgo.

NB: The following is an updated repost outlining some themes that will be relevant for the next week and a half while the mutual reception of Mercury and Venus continues to play out.

Just a head’s up that we have a mutual reception in play until October  14th – Mercury & Venus are currently playing the role of exchange students by occupying each other’s home signs!  Mercury and Venus mix and mingle their energies; playing off each other for a total period of about 3 weeks – a period that began on September 29th when Mercury entered Libra.   Here are some highlighted themes you may notice in play as a result of this combo:

Discrimination involving our choice of partners; combining work and love; saying nice things; the health of a Significant Other or biz partner; being conscious of our dietary sugar intake; talking about partnerships; sibling relationships; diplomatic conversations; discussions that involve fair give-and-take; kidney health; finding love in the workplace; tactful choice of words; mental equilibrium; love at the gym; getting along w/ your coworkers; appreciating your employees; criticism from a spouse or Significant Other; evaluating the health of a partnership; looking at relationship routines; the girl next door; married to your job; a balanced diet; relationships with neighbors; intestinal flora and the enteric balance; analyzing how we earn/spend money; assessing financial health; a job we love; lazy co-workers/employees; working on our relationship; making the everyday luxe; beauty routines; discriminating taste; relationships on the brain; making money with our hands or communication abilities; working with your Sweetie; relationship news; agreements in writing; a love of cleanliness & organization; helpful & pleasant; service with a smile; whistle while you work; the equal distribution of chores in a partnership; money made in service trades; picking lovely & perfect words; improving relationships by talking things out & via soft, kind criticisms; say it with flowers.

10/03/2017

Venus In Virgo, Pictorially

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Behold; the Garden Goddess!  The fruits of her (many!) labors lay lusciously upon the vine as she luxuriates in the gifts her own efficiency and productivity have begotten.  A Vestal Virgin’s pleasure she takes in a job well-done and in the financial independence she has as a result!

The 9 of Pentacles, courtesy of the RWS Tarot.

Sometimes, though, Venus in Virgo feels more like:

I’m rather fond of referring to this placement as “Cinderelly Venus” at times – Venus is located in the sign of her astrological Fall in Virgo, meaning this planet has a difficult time expressing herself in a manner that’s truest to her intrinsic nature. Rather than refined and elegant, she is relegated to mere “Serving Wench” status when in Virgo – the ball gown becomes an apron and the sparkling tiara naught but a humble kerchief.

Complicating this even further is the fact that Venus is currently palling around with malefic Mars; a further coarsening influence upon this genteel lady.  And once this conjunction w/ Mars perfects on 10/5 (Thursday), she’s also besieged by a square to restrictive Saturn. Translation: This is likely to be a tough week overall on the love & money fronts; both domains which Venus rules. Cease any carping, general fussbudgeting, and stinginess and instead invest considerable mental and physical energy into something you love doing – busy yourself in wholly immersive work and you won’t have time or energy to sweat petty stuff.  Other areas of particularly productive micro-focus can also include nutrition, exercise, health & wellness, and cleanliness – Venus in Virgo loves all these areas and its prolonged contact to Mars gives us the drive to do something about it!

10/02/2017

Jupiter Opposite Uranus

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The vibe du jour, pictorially and lyrically – this alignment perfects for a final time tonight!

Courtesy of the RWS Tarot: Jupiter (represented by the Wheel of Fortune) and Uranus (represented by The Fool).

“Left a good job in The City,
Workin’ for The Man every night & day,
And I never lost one minute of sleepin’
Worryin’ ‘bout the way things might have been.

Big wheel keep on turnin’…”

– Proud Mary by CCR

09/27/2017