Astro Tasseomancy

Below is a brief rant on a reading I did today, be warned I am somewhat tired so this post will be far more disjointed then usual :)

ill ignore a long recourse into the vast majority of actual symbols and polarities that came up but I was pleasantly surprised by the force and clarity of the reading – so much so I'm sharing it with anyone that cares to read :)

In regards to my health over the last while I have being somewhat off form – so with todays Moon in Capricorn, the earthly sign of corporeal manifestation being in a sharp conjunction with Lilith the guise of a silent knowing, I felt it was an especially beneficial time to do a reading in search of insight, recollection and the deeper reflections such a configuration can bring.

I decided to use Tesseomancy, the art of tea leaf reading as my main guide – not that drawing up a chart, or spreading the cards was out of the question; but sometimes a different hands on approach seems appropriate, and if anything precisely what's needed.

Playing upon the associations of my current state of health, the present emotional and horoscopial array, the prevalent astrological health positions of my natal chart, as well as the goal of seeking “practical steps to recovery” I mixed up a blend.

After a bit of pondering, and recording the blends ingredients I eventually named it Mishli Berno, meaning “The way forward”.

Misli Berno
Equal parts of:
Green tea
Jasmine
Dandelion root
Vervain
Set with a freshly blessed Aventrine crystal.

Brewing the tea I had a real sense of fixation on the goal, pouring my thoughts and ideas, intentions and feelings into the brew as it stirred in the pot. I left it astir for nine or so minutes, which is the traditional time assigned for readings in gaining practical steps forward as well as being the numerical association of the Moon, the main astrological instigator of the reading.

The resulting tea was light, aromatic and quite sweet to the taste (A pleasant and welcomed surprise!)

With limited time and the days waning physical energy I decided not to scry on the surface or study the steam for its own omens, instead I opted to use the Nelros saucer design as the medium of the tea. The set's among my favourite and although it's a bit tricky to track down these days it's certainly worth the effort for those wanting a quick reading (ah go on!).

The resulting spin of the cup:

Crescent moon/ Boomerang – Leo
Letters E. N. - Libra
Face/Smile – Sagittarius
Angel with curled wings – Aquarius
Number seven/ Shoe – Taurus/Gemini
Gathering of tea on the Fire aspect of the Pentagram

Starting with the current sun sign of Leo I interpreted the tea leaves in it's section as the dual manifestation of a boomerang and a crescent moon. This indicates and reminds me that the health issue is a recurring one, but also one in a state of natural flux – the first symbol is one of will, of the psychosomatic principles in play while the second reflects that, although my will indeed had it's part to play in the current affairs; it is also one of divine order. Allowing the opportunity to grown, evolve and come to a deeper (albeit a shallow one) understanding of the power of intention and repression, as well as the beauty of compassion.

Libra the Airy domain of justice and equilibrium carries with it the letters of E.N. - which reflects for myself an offer of healing from a friend, who is heavily and authentically involved with a system that bears those letters prominently. Giving much thought to the idea that although I have much anxiety in regards to that particular field of study it is never the less still worth further consideration.

Sagittarius is aligned with a clear distinctive smile. Seeing as it was the first symbol that originally took form it is highly indicative of the eventual outcome – one of happiness. Which is not only reassuring, it in itself makes me smile :) Hopefully, as I suspect, when applied to linear time (by the solar rise of Saggi.) much of the current strands of chaos will have found renewed order.

Aquarius offered up the image of an angel with curled wings, not only in confirmation of Libra's insight but a protective reminder that in these fresh experiences and times of trial, that I am very much protected and cared for. The water bearer is one of emotional release and seemingly eccentric behaviour – with a calling to resurge away from the apathy of the moment and become more empowered by my own voice of being, rather then the silence of my physical situation.

The Taurus/Gemini divide brings with it the Numerical personality of seven, which when employed intuitively to my situation calls for more in-depth working on my Chakras. On a very basic level seven is the number of remembrance and a new manifested form, born out of the transition of the five and the gestation of the six. What I feel to be a clear indication of success through more advanced work and developing technique of the LBRP, Middle Pillar and so forth.

The secondary form of this sign is the shoe. Both symbols are quite clear to my eyes, perhaps somewhat reflective of being on the cusp of two signs – so that it can easily, without much focus, embody two separate concepts at the one time. The shoe reminds me of an array of ideas I have being pondering over – such as the developing understanding that “grounding” isn't an act in itself, but a process. One that can take quite a lot of time, in grounding and neutralising the generated and stored thought-forms, ideas and energy matrix within the body and Aura. To ground is to initiate or reinforce the process, but the actual grounding is a continual and ever changing process in itself.

I have also, time and energy allowing being on many nature walks, and have returned home with a deeper sense of renewal – such a configuration I feel encourages to continue this practice, and if possible increase – which will also help to offset some of the more physical consequences of therapy and an increasingly sedentary lifestyle.

The cluster of tea on the Pentagrams elemental aspect of fire is an association calling for more action, attention and spirit in challenging this situation – burning away the gathering apathy to release the form renewed.

To prevent boring you all any further, by decending into the lenghty discriptions of the main symbols, as well as unpenned secondary ones and there associated Zodiac signs being applied to my natal and present chart etc this is what, in shirt I feel are the readings highlights.

The situation is one of dual creation, of both a life lesson and the repressed emotional state of some of my own darker instincts. There is a definite indication to re-examine the offer of healing from another, even if it is something I would otherwise not of chosen – the signs are clear that although I possess a degree of anxiety over the subject I am never the less cared for beyond any overly negative consequences.

The rise of Sagittarius will bring with it much joy, so if I continue to work on my body energetically as well as caring for it through the physical practicalities such as exercise and a continued connection with nature then there is little resistance to the return of health.

Unusually, although there are far more symbols seen and interpreted none indicated ay direct negative influence, but more indicative of voids of force – making the situation all the more willing for change. All in all a very empowering and refreshing reading.

Please excuse the poorly formulated and expressed post – the day has being long, my body weary and my mind just about ready for bed :)

Until next time!

Celtic Astrology

In modern Astrology the Celtic Zodiac is a thing of great debate, from the origins of it's form, the tools of its practitioners and the reasonings of it's regents of power – all have at one time or another found themselves either exposed to great question or simply overlooked.

Although the Celtic lunar based zodiac is thought to have been the one used by the Druids it was not until "Tree Zodiac" was, according to some, rediscovered by Robert Graves in his famous book, The White Goddess [1949]. Others, however, accuse Graves of being at best gravely mistaken and at worst contriving the Zodiac.

As I understand it ,uch of what Robert Graves put forward as the Tree Calendar and Tree Zodiac relies on modern interpretations derived from the book Ogygia, seu rerum hibernicarum chronologia [1685], a chronological account of Irish events, by the seventeenth century bard Roderick O'Flaherty [1629 - 1718].



O'Flaherty had claimed that his information was gained from a Duald MacFirbis [1585-1670], the great Irish scholar, clan bard of the O'Briens. Modern scholars, however, have placed seriously doubts upon these interpretations, and as the Bardic schools were essentially Christian, it is very unlikely that they preserved Druidic knowledge long into the Christian era.


It is also worth noting that according to the 'Camden's Britannia' the word Ogygia comes from Latin. It is quoted in Plutarch as the Roman's name for Ireland.


The most modern derivative of Graves lunar zodiac which is most commonly cited on the net comes from the work of Helena Peterson in her Handbook of Celtic Astrology [1995].
Joseph Monard, a Celtic scholar has described her work in the following terms: "Her lunar zodiac only makes the ancient Druids look like senile lunatics." and the zodiac as "phony." [According to my version of Celtic Astrology: A modern Hoax [2002] Centre Universitaire de Recherche en Astrologie].



It is certainly notable that the astrological system as outlined includes Uranus, Neptune and Pluto which were almost certainly unknown to the Druids and would thus have no place among their interpretations or system of analysis. It also appears ignorant of the ancient Celtic names of several planets and Gods.


Also the zodiac starts on December 24th whereas the Coligny Calendar shows us that the Celtic year started in October/November with the doorway of samhain.


However, the Graves and Patterson models are but two of several competing attempts at a Druidic Zodiac.


Others which I feel are worth a mention are:


Friedrich Hageneder's Tree-signs;
Carol Carnac's Celtic Astrology;
Edgar Bliss's Gaulish Astrology;
Kaledon Naddair's Shamanistic Calendar.


These approaches offer wildly different Tree Zodiacs, some 13-sign lunar, some decanated solar with 36 divisions. Whilst the Hageneder approach is also based on Ogygia, the others possess little in the way of exposition of how precisely each author determined that this was the zodiac used by the Celts and their Druids.


It is best to remember that the idea and thought that there was a comprehensive Celtic astrology is in little doubt. Classical writers, such as Strabo, Caesar, Diodorus Siculus, Cicero and Pliny, comment on the Druidic knowledge and experience of astrology. There was even a school of thought amongst some of the Classical Greek astrologers based in Athens that their astrology had been borrowed from the Celts.

For example, Caesar in the Conquest of Gaul [Conquest of Gaul, VI.18] writes:

"The Gauls claim all to be descended from Father Dis [a god of death, darkness and the underworld], declaring that this is the tradition preserved by the Druids. For this reason they measure periods of time not by days but by nights; and in celebrating birthdays, the first of the month, and new year’s day, they go on the principle that the day begins at night."


Caesar was not exactly known for his pro-Druidic sympathies. However, his comments do preserve some idea of the difference and complexity of real Druidic astrology.


Unfortunately for us, the Druids left us nothing about their side of the story. They left absolutely no written records to the effect of their teachings. Irish and Welsh written literature does not begin until about the 6th century AD so all known knowledge of them arise from culturally external perceptions of by the whispers of the ancestral lines.

By the 6th century when records came about the standard appears to be a variation of Western Astrology, based on a Babylonian/Greek model of interpertation – having entirely replaced the native system.


Aside from the references of the Classical authors, there is some other evidence that remains for the existence of Celtic astrology, especially the Coligny Calendar.

This is probably the best preserved example of a Celtic calendar. It embodies a number of engraved copper-alloy fragments were discovered in 1897 in ancient woodlands fifteen miles north-east of Bourg-en-Bresse, in France.


They were pieces of a single, large bronze tablet, which originally would have measured some 1.5 x 1 metres. The French archaeologist J. Monard has dated the fragments to the 1st century AD.

Several points of interest can be noted from the Coligny Calendar:


The calendar took into account the problem of the lunar month not being an exact fraction of the solar year by inserting an extra month on a regular cycle. This method of intercalation meant that most years contained twelve months, and approximately every third year contained thirteen months. This extra month was called Mid Samonios, and was intercalated between Cutios and Giamonios in the calendar.

The Celtic month started at the full-moon, rather than the new-moon. Each month alternately contained 29 or 30 days, making a Celtic year 354 days in length.


The month was divided into two parts, a 'light' half, and a 'dark' half, each approximately of two week's duration; the division marked by the word Atenoux 'returning night' on the Coligny fragments. This indicates that the new-moon also played a part in the Celtic calendar. This also bears-out the impression we get from the traditional Celtic folk-stories which maintain that the normal period of Celtic timekeeping was the fortnight.

By extrapolation, the calendar also confirms that the Gallic druids maintained a thirty-year cycle of timekeeping, comprising five cycles of 62 lunations and one cycle of 61 lunations, during which period, eleven intercalary months would be added.



The months of the Celtic calendar were as follows:



Celtic names -Modern months-Meaning*

Samonios-October-November-Seed-fall
Dumannios-November-December-Darkest depths
Riuros-December-January-Cold-time
Anagantios-January-February-Stay-home time
Ogronios-February-March-Ice time
Cutios-March-April-Windy time
Giamonios-April-May -Shoots-show
Simivisonios-May-June-Bright time
Equos-June-July-Horse-time
Elembiuos-July/August-Claim-time
Edrinios-August/September -Arbitration-time
Cantlos-September/October -Song-time



*Translations based on the work of Caitlin Matthews in The Celtic Tradition. (Which if you have not read, is most certainly worth the time!).


Two major Celtic religious festivals, Beltain and Lughnasadh, were marked on the Coligny calendar by small sigils. Each year started with the month of Samonios, during which period the festival of Samhain was celebrated.



Many terms of astrological reference or importance have survived into modern times. The Gaelic language has many words and concepts that stand witness to the thoughts and understandings of the past.


In old Irish itself there were at least six words for an astrologer.


Rollagedagh [one who gains knowledge from the stars].
Fisatóir [one who gains knowledge from the heavens].
Eastrolach [one who gains knowledge from the moon].
Fathach [one steeped in prophecy].
N éladoir [one who divinates from the sky, or clouds].
Réalt-eolach [one versed in astrology].



It must be said though that although the modern take on Celtic Astrology is just that. Modern. It is not without it's own virtues, style and insights. Age is not always a virtue that installs wisdom and truth as such things need to be earned, and while Celtic Astrology is still very much a reborn source of divination, it is well on the way to earned its standing


References:
Caitlin Matthews in The Celtic Tradition.
Robert Graves, The White Goddess.
Dr Sheperd Simpson, Celtic Zodiac.
Ogygia, seu rerum hibernicarum chronologia.
Joseph Monard, Celtic Astrology.

Karmic Astrology - whispers in the winds of time

Today a neighbour not four doors away was laid to rest, I did not know him well but the words of his family struck a deep cord with me, and left me thinking much about my own mortality, life and ultimate passage from this realm of being to the next.



I hope that when the tides of life come to wash away my footprints in the sands of time, that I have being as lucky to leave a trail as half as beautiful as the one he had left entwined in the hearts of his family and friends.



The burial itself was later then most, at eight in the evening when the sun has set and the arms of night had curled around the city, with cloudy breath and frost touched toes I walked to the church, the path was lit with amber street lamps that shone like candles in the chill of night, and as I sat on the wooden chair hearing the words of sorrow for a life lost and tales of joy for a life truly lived, I just couldn't help but ponder how the celestial bodies watch over us in life, and when the earth comes to reclaim its lost children they would shine all the brighter for the future stardust that would course through the veins of eternity.



This has led me allot to the idea of this blog: Karmic Astrology.



Karmic astrology is a branch of astrology based on the concept of the cycle of rebirths and the law of cause and effect. And from such ideals comes the belief that the horoscope can help us recognise the effects of past actions in the present life and how our present may in return affect future lives as well as the future of our present lives.



It is probably one of the closest branches of Astrology linked to religion and spiritual teaching and his highly subjective to the experiences of those that follow such a path of self understanding.



There are a few generally valid guidelines for interpretation:



- A particular emphasis on the importance of the fourth, eighth and twelfth houses which are associated with the water element.



- The eighth house is thought to reveal past Karma, the fourth house present Karma and the twelfth future Karma.



- The planet Pluto, ruler of the eighth house together with the sign of Scorpio, are also thought to reveal the nature of past Karma.



- The Imum Coli (cusp of the fourth house) is thought to reveal the nature of the tasks an individual will have to face in the present life.



- There is also a great significance granted to the Moon and Saturn (which is often known as the "lord of karma")



Finally, the Moons Nodes also play an important role.



-The Moon's South Node:
Represents our karmic ancestry and we are probably familiar with the themes indicated by the South Node.



-The North Node:
Shows our karmic aim in the present life, something which is likely to cause feelings of anxiety because we cannot always rely on past experiences to help us progress there.



Merit Karma


This is the reward for all the things you got right in your past lives, all the lessons you learned, all the insights you put into practice. It is money in your Karmic piggy bank, it often manifests as a talent in the present life.

Chart Indicators:Easy aspects or specific planetary placements, especially linked to the Second House.



Recompense Karma


Recompense Karma is a reward or recognition for all things that you got right in the past, or for the sacrifice you made to help others. If for example, you put your ambitions or a relationship on hold to care for someone who needed your help, then that person could well come back as a good friend who helps you out in the present incarnation.

Chart Indicators:Helpful planetary placements and smooth, harmonious aspects and interaspects.



Redemptive Karma


Some people incarnate to help others or to do something for the world. Other people take on tasks that will help to clear collective karma.

Chart Indicators:People with strong redemptive karma often have an emphasis on the planet Neptune or the twelfth house. Clearing collective karma is often shown in a twelfth house placement of the north node.





Retributive Karma


Karma that boomerangs. The classic "eye for an eye, a tooth for a tooth" doctrine that says, for instance if someone chopped another persons hand in a former life, they are likely to have a paralysed hand in the present life, or lose the use of their hand in some way. In other words, what you have done comes back to you.

Chart Indicators:Extremely challenging aspects and planetary placements, emphasis on the sixth to twelfth axis.



Attitudinal Karma


Attitudinal karma has usually been present during several lives. An intransigent attitude, ingrained behaviour, or an intractable or habitual emotional stance results in some form of dis-ease, often at the physical level, during the present incarnation. So believing there would "never be enough" could manifest as an addiction. Arterial or heart problems could develop from "hard-heartedness" or a broken heart. Having an attachment to an ideal may also create karma.

Chart Indicators:Reflected in fixed planetary aspects and the sixth house.



Organic Karma


Organic karma is rather like attitidinal karma. It reflects injuries or conditions from previous lives .Overindulgence for instance could manifest as obesity or liver problems in the present. If you died by too much blood-letting, you could now suffer from anemia. A past life back injury could underlie a chronic back problem, tuberculosis could result in present life lung disease.

Chart Indicators:The sixth house



Karmic Treadmill


Destructive patterns that have not been outgrown are like the karmic treadmill. The same old things go around and around. Alcoholism is one example, relationships can provide many other examples.

Chart Indicators:Difficult aspects and a preponderance of planets in a fixed sign.



Work Karma


How you were employed in the past can have repercussions in the present, and some people incarnate to continue their previous work (vocational Karma) Someone may have been a healer or a doctor and bring with them into the present life the urge to heal. A former monk or nun would feel that they have a religious vocation in the present life, a musician the urge to continue with music.The karma of work arises from several different life causes.





Previous lack of integrity, for instance would manifest as someone who is cheated in this life, is cheated by someone. Having been a factory owner who's inadequate safety measures were responsible for many deaths could underlie an urge to be a safety or fire officer in the present life.Positive work karma could indicate skills to be drawn on in the present life. Technological karma stems from having had to make ethical decisions, about the use or misuse, of technical -or fighting against the introduction of new technology. It can relate to all periods but may go back in time as far as Atlantis or, more recently, to the Industrial and Technological Revolutions and their effects on people's lives.

Chart Indicators:Sixth and Tenth houses. Technological Uranus, especially in the Sixth and Tenth houses are particularly relevant to vocations.



Symbolic Karma


Not all karma is immediately obvious, symbolic karma can take some unravelling. The present life condition symbolizes what was done in the past. A witch ducker in a previous life might be incarnated as a bed wetter, for example.

Chart Indicators:Aspects to the appropriate planets and placements of planets in signs and houses delineate this karma.



Communication Karma


How and what you choose to communicate can lead to karma. Gossiping over the fence, spreading scandal or untruth of all kinds, slandering or criticising people, difficulty in communicating thoughts, feelings, and beliefs can create situations in this life. Included in communication karma are ideology hypocrisy, and mockery.





Attachment to a belief no matter how worthy, can create ideological karma. Imposing beliefs on other people can also create this karma. The beliefs may be religious, philosophical, or purely secular. But the karma has to be met in the current life.Having said or done things a certain way, while believing something different, gives rise to the karma hypocrisy, so does the "anything for a quiet life" approach. Hypocrisy rises from a lack of spiritual conviction and inner truth, or betrayal of truth.





A life arises when that inner foundation has to be regained.Mocking other peoples afflictions, thoughts and beliefs, or actions gives rise to the karma of mockery, it is based on not valuing that another persons beliefs. One such example is when you debase or make fun of someone else so that you can feel superior. The person who mocks often finds him or herself living out in the present life the circumstances he or she despised so much in a past life.



Chart Indicators:Aspects to Mercury and it's house placement point to the source. The ninth house has to do with ideology. The third house with gossip, and the twelfth with slander.





Sins of Omission and Commission


What you do not do can be as karmically significant as what you do. If you have always behaved in a certain way, or consistently refused to take action or learn a lesson, then the karma comes around and around, again and again until you get the message.

Chart Indicators:Difficult fixed aspects or an emphasis on sextiles. Relationship





Karma Relationship


Karma has many aspects. A couple may be brought together by true love, but this is not always so. Some people will not let go of someone they "love" and have come back with that person until they can do so. The lesson can be painful especially when the other person doesn't recognize the "love."


Retribution can be part of relationship karma, as can be recompense and reparation. It operates in families, groups, and work situations.

Chart Indicators:Fifth seventh and eighth houses and aspects to Venus.



Pacts and Promises


The pacts and promises you made in a past life can strongly affect the present. They may involve another person or be personal. If you promised to always be there for someone, you might have to deal with the resulting relationship karma. If you once made a vow to celibacy it could strongly affect your sexual life in the present incarnation and a vow of poverty could seriously affect your material wealth in the present.

Chart Indicators:This depends on the vow for example celibacy, Saturn in the eighth house, difficult mars or Venus aspects, poverty Saturn in the second or eighth house, or in Taurus or in aspect to Jupiter. Relationship promises involve personal planetary interaspects with Saturn and Neptune.



Karma in Suspension


As not all karma can be dealt with at once, some of it remains in suspension to be dealt with at some other time- which may or may not occur during the present life.

Chart Indicators:Wide connections between planets may indicate karma in suspension, especially if they will "catch up" and come into close orb at some point during your life.



Karma in the Making


What goes on in the present time creates future karma. Remembering that each of your thoughts, deeds, actions and beliefs creates what you will be is away to bring positive karma into your next life.

Chart Indicators:Cardinal squares and one -way interaspects between charts



Karma of aggression


Chart indicators: square's in cardinal signs ( Aries, Cancer, Libra, Capricorn ), with Mars and it's superior octave, Pluto.





This type of karma shows that the person in the past lifes had a bad use of energy like: instinctive behaviour, aggression, violent impulses, domination and manipulation tenderise used in tiranic ways ( bad leaders ), egocentrism, irrational motivations that led to scandal, wrong canalization of energy, cruelty etc.





Mars in the chart show's how the person manifested this type of karma and it's possible to repeat it worsens in the actual life( still showed by the squares and Mars ). Pluto in the chart shows how this karma can be burned and to use the energy in good way, fighting yourself to beat the instincts and the aggressive impulses, learning the lesson of peace, calm, meditation and love.





Usually this karma gives in the actual life negative events like: frequently occurring accidents, injuries and burns ; being victim of violent and cruel persons; fast and violent breaking of relationships; sexual problems, painful health disorders etc..If a person has square's, T-Square's or Mystic Square's in cardinal sign's this type of karma is enabled.





Karma of possessive attachment.


Chart indicators: squares in fixed signs ( Taurus, Leo, Scorpio, Aquarius ), with Venus and it's superior octave, Neptune. This type of karma shows that the person in the past lifes had been excessive attached to money, persons and possessions.





Most of the time this karma show's that in past life's, the materialism and satisfying owns desire's was something important, the person was to attached to something that led making the loved ones unhappy because of selfishness.Venus in the chart show's how the person manifested this type of karma and it's possible to repeat it worsen in the actual life( still showed by the squares and Venus ).





Neptune in the chart shows how this karma can be burned and to learn the lessons of detachment, acceptation, compassion, spirituality and to love without asking in return.





Usually this karma gives in the actual life negative events like: losing someone you love, poorness, losing objects you are attached, being victim of selfish persons, lots of personal illusions, long health disorders etcIf a person has square's, T-Square's or Mystic Square's in fixed sign's this type of karma is enabled.Karma of ignorance:hart indicators: squares in mutable signs ( Gemini, Virgo, Sagittarius, Pisces ), with Mercury and it's superior octave, Uranus.





This type of karma shows that the person in the past lives had been to ignorant, to rebellious, he/she wanted to be free and have no duties doing all what he likes even if he/she breaks the freedom of others.





They refused duties, they lie often, sometimes breaks laws by ignoring the consequences and usually this karma is manifested in the most forms in cruel teasing ( laughing on Someones mystakes or physical defects ) or bieng to chaotic and influencial.



Mercury in the chart show's how the person manifested this type of karma and it's possible to repeat it worsen in the actual life( still showed by the squares and mercury ). Uranus in the chart shows how this karma can be burned and to learn how to be disciplined, responsible on duties, practical and to learn the lesson of respect.





Usually this karma gives in the actual life negative events like: errors, bad luck, loosing exams on school, high-school and university, bad luck on social life and career, speech and nervous disorder, being victim of cruel teasing, being victim of lies, bad friends etc.If a person has square's, T-Square's or Mystic Square's in mutable sign's this type of karma is enabled.




While this is not of my own personal perception and allignment when it comes to astrology and its study I still never the less find it a most fascinating topic - worthy of study, review and for some implementation.


References: The wildly witty MsSaturn and the wonderfully gifted Borx.

Lunar phrases - The lady of many faces.

The cycle of the aspects formed by the Moon to the Sun from a geocentric perspective is known as the lunation cycle. It lasts on average 29 days, 12 hours, 44½ minutes, a unit of time called the synodic month which because the Sun is also moving in direct motion through the tropical zodiac takes over two days longer than the sidereal month, which is the measure of the time the Moon takes to orbit the earth.

The lunation cycle is divided into eight units called 'phases', each covering 45º of the geocentrically viewed cycle of the Moon's application to and separation from the Sun. Astrologers have studied the effects of the natal and progressed lunar phases.

In the natal figure, for every Sun sign there are three possible Moon signs for each lunar phase.The lessons of each phase and the soli-lunar aspects within apply equally to natal phases and to those of the progressed Moon to radical Sun, and radical Moon to progressed Sun.

New Moon

The New Moon phase lasts from the Moon's exact conjunction with the Sun until its separation by 45º from the Sun, forming a separating semisquare. It emphasises instinct and oblivion of the past. Individuals born under the New Moon phase are impulsive, instinctive, and inclined to self-dramatise and self-project, rendering them very noticeable to others.

They are more inclined to follow their instincts than analyse their behaviour or apply forethought; and have a strong inclination to impose their personal vision on the world.Under the progressed New Moon, individuals reorientate themselves inwardly and experience a major change in life that may be more apparent with hindsight but that is typified by a free, open response to a new guiding power.

In this phase, a conjunction of Sun and Moon is characterised by intensity, concord between the emotions and ego needs, and a highly subjective outlook, with little awareness of the results of their actions.

A semisextile can indicate a latent, raw talent that is frustratingly imperfect, leaving the personal ego dissatisfied, but with potential through persistent endeavour to render the talent effective.

A semisquare brings slight difficulties and mental irritations that frustratingly restrict the individual from full self-projection.

Crescent

The Crescent phase lasts from 45º until the separating square at 90º from the Sun. It is characterised by exertion and breaking away.

Those born under the Crescent phase are likely to be closely emotionally connected to their families, but inwardly moved to break with their family values or tradition, both materially and philosophically, struggling to establish their own values and criteria and means for self-worth, and to self-assertively challenge the established order and influence the collective direction.

The focal point of their restlessness or avenue for expression of this drive will be shown by the placement of the Moon and by the house on whose cusp Cancer is found in the nativity.

Under the progressed Crescent Moon, the new direction adopted subjectively under the New Moon is at first exposed to resistance by the external world, followed later by opportunities to develop it in more substantial form.In this phase, a semisquare causes irritation and discomfort, often relating to personal communication or educational objectives, motivating the individual to seek to self-develop to a more contented, tranquil condition.

A sextile brings opportunities for advancement from restrictive situations into more productive ones, through their own choices taken.

A quintile shows a perfected talent whose activation transforms the individual's situation, as though helped by a higher force.

A square shows an energetic struggle to take action to achieve a step forward toward some goal.

First Quarter

The First Quarter phase lasts from 90º to the separating sesquisquare at 135º separation. It is characterised by energy and forward motion with courage and action.

Those born under the First Quarter phase are good at learning to relate to others objectively, responding to crises and concretising new ideas that represent their own beliefs. They have a a pressing will to act; eagerness to experience life; executive and organisational abilities; and an attraction to liberating change. They are inclined to enlarge and expand their scope in the world and philosophy of life.

Under the progressed First Quarter, the capacity for the establishment of the new life direction in reality and renouncement of the past becomes the driving force over which the individual must take control, especially after the turning point of the square, committing courageously and confidently to the challenges of integrating the new life direction.

In this phase, a square between Sun and Moon produces an energetic urge to take action that will lead to the manifestation of their beliefs in the outside world, but a risk of conflict with others arising from insufficient objectivity, and sometimes a requirement for higher education.

A trine motivates to growth through education, philosophy or religion, and brings expansion in these areas relatively easily at the possible expense of it being far-reaching, while showing easily outwardly expressed earned talent, which may require disciplined application to overcome its inherent laziness.

A sesquisquare shows well-developed self-awareness that is difficult to express outwardly, leading to feelings of solitude in belief, but bringing identification with those of similar beliefs, and aptitude for teaching objective awareness of higher truths.

Gibbous

The Gibbous phase lasts from 135º separation to the opposition at 180º. It is characterised by discrimination, and learning to perceive and contribute to value.

Those born under the Gibbous phase are accepting duty and responsibility; seeking areas of value in the outside world in which to involve themselves; rendering their behaviour answerable to a specific purpose or reason; and eliminating from their lives whatever does nothing to support this system of values.

The placement of Saturn and the house on whose cusp Capricorn falls will indicate the focus of their value and sense of responsibility. They are relatively introspective and questioning, and concerned with expressing their intellectual talents

Under the progressed Gibbous Moon, productivity is great, and the individual struggles to persevere commitedly to the commitments established in the previous phase, while retaining flexibility in the face of everyday realities.

In this phase, a sesquisquare shows lonely self-awareness and earned power requiring disciplined application if it is to be harnessed constructively as opposed to destructively.

A biquintile indicates a unique talent requiring self-discipline to be expressed productively, rather than simply being held within introvertedly, leading to disillusion.

A quincunx shows the need to take an important decision, make adjustments, and dedicate oneself to the realisation of a seemingly karmic personal or social goal which otherwise tends to seem always to be elusive.

An opposition indicates the attainment of success through acting responsibly (in an area of life indicated by the house placement of Saturn) on awareness of others (the nature of the work for whom will be shown by the house on whose cusp Capricorn is found); but with the requirement for dedication and compromise in order to resolve opposing influences and attain fulfilment as opposed to separation.

Full Moon

The Full Moon phase lasts from the opposition to the applying sesquisquare at 225º. It is characterised by fulfilment and the perception of opposite poles.Those born under the Full Moon phase have open, clear minds, seeking personal fulfilment mediated by inner illumination, and demanding of themselves thought and understanding prior to action.

They are considerate of others and learning self-expression to a partner or to a greater cause than themselves, seeking the perfection of an ideal relationship and an existence integrated with the colllective and defined through what lies outside themselves.

Under the progressed Full Moon, the efforts made to establish the new direction begun at the progressed New Moon are reflected in a clear light, which may manifest as deep fulfilment or disturbance and defeat, depending on the success or failure of meeting the challenges along the way; and objective consciousness of the progress of the cycle so far should be cultivated in order to prepare the way for the ensuing search for meaning.

In this phase, an opposition between Sun and Moon brings a requirement for applied awareness of the needs of whoever or whatever is being related to, in order to reconcile opposing views, using the mind to consider all options before acting and to communicate.

A quincunx requires mental adjustment to a spiritual attitude in order to attain fulfilment or concord that appears otherwise to be karmically elusive.

A biquintile brings creative potential whose expression is impeded by its obsessive or potentially hallucinatory quality.

A sesquisquare brings a talent or mental awareness that is difficult to communicate, requiring effort to be presented into a form readily understood by others on a verbal and emotional level.

Disseminating

The Disseminating phase lasts from 225º to the applying square at 270º. It is characterised by love, and giving something of value.

Those born under the Disseminating phase have a need to share and an aptitude for the dissemination of a cause or the distribution of information, whether through writing, broadcasting, or any other means.

These people assimilate and evaluate their ideas, perceptions and insights then promote the conclusions to others. The placement of the Moon will indicate what has to be disseminated; and the houses on whose cusps Taurus and Libra are found will hold clues to the outcome.

Under the progressed Disseminating phase, there is a need to connect with others and demonstrate one's recently developed capabilities and awarenesses to wider society, which may include reforming drives, and the development of a practicable life philosophy and ideology in the light of understandings integrated from what has been observed previously within the cycle.

In this phase, a sesquisquare between Sun and Moon brings mental awareness that is strongly and deeply felt, as though its origins lie in an unearthly source or past time, yet whose ease of verbal expression is relatively limited until the individual is motivated by the love of an activity pursued to develop that awareness further.

A trine brings easy, seemingly perfected talent for the expression of a duty, love or value, something learned as though from a past incarnation.

A square shows the expenditure of great effort in a particular direction to attain success that requires the surmounting of obstacles.

Last Quarter

The Last Quarter phase proceeds from 270º to the applying semisquare at 315º. It is characterised by rebellion, and breaking free from external expectations into individuality.

Those born under the Last Quarter phase experience a crisis characterised by mental awareness of their due destiny of difference, in their desire to forge a socially unusual individuality and liberate themselves from the expectations of others.

They are motivated by integrity and commitment to a progressive ideal they feel responsible for embodying and demonstrating publicly.

Under the progressed Last Quarter, meaning is gathered from the consciousness developed over the cycle; and the individual is inclined to dispose of obsolete areas of life and thinking that do not harmonise with this awareness.

In this phase, a square between Sun and Moon brings conflicts requiring a new kind of action in response; as though in a newly enlightened state the individual, dissatisfied with bygone ways, suddenly and unexpectedly seems finally to initiate new paths that respond to the stored up internal need for changes and depart completely with the modes of the past.

A quintile brings a special new talent that requires to be combined with the roots of the old, and may manifest in artistic areas and in the handling of people and society, the attracting of their assistance, and their awakening to new modes of thought.

A sextile shows a relatively easy opportunity for change and reorientation of the ways of old, often mediated by other individuals encountered.

A semisquare brings slight, irritating problems in everyday affairs, requiring control guided by the individual's awareness of them, since the smooth functioning of such matters is needed for the achievement of longer-term and more far-reaching goals.

Balsamic

The Balsamic phase completes the cycle, from 315º back to the conjunction at 360º. It is characterised by commitment and the development of a new level of consciousness.Those born under the

Balsamic phase are complex, pioneering in their involvements, and poorly integrated into mainstream reality, needing to make a major adjustment to their lives, and perceiving a different meaning of life from that perceived by most people.

They experience deep, intense relationships, but are inclined to forget whatever lies in the past once it is over, training their eyes on the future, into which they have the capacity for exceptional insight, if they are open to channeling intuitions from higher sources.

They bring to the world something that lives beyond their death, and feel compulsively drawn to social action and the communication of visions.

Under the progressed Balsamic phase, individuals are inclined to withdraw into relative introspection and separate from their followers, tuning into new needs arising from the summation of the consciousness brought by the outgoing cycle, needs whose fulfilment will be sought in the cycle to follow.

In this phase, a semisquare between Sun and Moon brings minor frustrations and irritations, often projected onto others but arising from within, that build up, stifle the individual, and block major achievement until they are wilfully forced aside or employed constructively.

A semisextile brings co-operation between ego and emotions that can give rise to a latent workable talent, often exposed only after a process of internal transformation, and requiring channeling in a productive direction, which may depend on more energising aspects or transits being tied into the configuration.

A conjunction brings complete concord between the ego and emotions, with a unified direction to efforts that favours the attainment of prominence in fields indicated by the sign placement.

The moon, our closest planetary power beyond our own earth can be a tool of great personal insight as well as guidance for once the relationship to our own chart and lunar positions is known we are far more equipped to transcend the present conflict to a greater assimilation of higher goals, making it more then just a lady of the night but a ethereal light in the darkness of our own ignorance.

References: Philip GravesBernice Grebner, Leyla Rael Rudhyar, Haydn Paul

Channelling a Sun - Moon square aspect

For those that have a Sun square Moon it can be quite the stressing astrological aspect to possess but one that also thankfully possess an extraordinary potential for prompting evolution.The square aspect (or as it is sometimes known as; quadrature) between two planets shows us the existence of a strong internal conflict between the energies of the involved elements.

Any square to the Sun in a person chart is easily interpreted as a very weakening aspect for the persons sense of self because the person primary of source of energy (projected and assigned as the sun) is blocked or is not in resonance with the other planet energy.

This alignment presents itself with a resistance to self communication and expressions The Sun-Moon square is even more weakening than any other square because of the direct connection between those two elements.

With the Sun as our inner self, the consciousness, which is seen as the primary resource of our corporeal energy and the Moon represented by the subconscious in direct opposition to one another's flow the result is that the person with this aspect tends to be permanent unhappy and nothing that is doing bring her peace and happiness.

There is most often a sense of being trapped and bound in a situation that seems without exit or release: when they decided to do something in a willed Solar manner, knowing that this action is the best possible way to progress there is still a inner emotionally in-tune voice that resists this.

The same is also applicable if the person, utilising there Moon based intuitions is feeling something from the emotional point of view, the mental aspect of that person most often at first denies or delays realisation of it.

This situation may lead to destructive reactions and delayed actions...the person may project his internal conflict to the outside world and with the resistance to the emotional and mental cooperation they are most likely to present themselves as a rebel without a cause.

There is also a tendency to think that this internal problem may be caused and of blame to the external factors of friends, children, co-workers etc – which not only gives length to the conflict but guarantees that without review that the situation will remain unresolved. Like myself when

I first started this journey you may feel overly happy and secured that in your chart you don't have this aspect – but alas we may all never the less experience its lesson for a duration of a year through the medium of our solar return.

If you are among those that have the challenge of a Sun-Moon square in a SR chart then it is best to deal with this internal conflict as soon as it is known, or at the very lest make motions and preparations for engaging the challenge and transmuting it to something warmly in your favour.

I'm currently awaiting my own Solar Return with this aspect in is, so hopefully these words of received guidance will be more then just words but a remembrance that regardless of the flow of light the inner illumination is both a sun and lunar reflection onto itself.

The solution seems to consist of becoming increasingly more conscious about your self and about this inner conflict.

First thing to do is to accept it and becoming aware of which is an internal issue and what is a external conflict.

Any reflection of sorrow or stress is within us and not in itself of the outside world but more a by-product of our egos encounter of it. Therefore if we are to overcome such things we need to release any blame on others and remember that the domain of such emotions depends entirely on ourselves.Secondly; focus and concentration is a vital tool of ascending above this challange.

It is most often advised that we set our targets and priorities, making our decisions and not allowing ourselves to waste any more time on this process.

With any done action there is no way that they can be undone, so in assuming the responsibility of our actions and resisting the long and endless debate of "Would I of, Should I of, could I of" you ease the lunar and solar conflict and allow the true will to rise through the fluidity of motion.

This is of course not to say that debate and review is not important (as it it) but only when it is about growth and adjustment and not the self torture of endless second guesses.

And finally by starting to use the positive side of this aspect we can not only prevent it from being a burden but turn it into a beacon of future light.

The main strategy for this is to use any internal anger and lack of satisfaction on improving your situation (both spiritual and material).

The secret is to focus it on the productive area of your life and to apply with a sense of control.
Setting targets before starting something and not allowing yourself to divert from them until they accomplish the goal may be a frustrating idea – but in encountering such an aspect is one that unless encounters rare situations should be for the better part kept to.

Initially by denying the initial battle and conflict of Lunar and Solar energies we can win the war.
This ensures that the self can be allowed to grow to a more empowered state, which at a later stage will be far more established onto itself and secure in the engaging of this aspect – by turning a bane into a beauty we can not only tap into a deep sense of power and energy but can end a sense of conflict that undermines a potentially deeply rewarding life.

Health and Astrological indicators.

This week I've being shaking off the lingering tail of a cold, and here prompt on my bed, amongst fallen tissue soldiers, victims in the battle of a man against his germs (yes darn it, it's dramatic! lol) I started to think about how astrological aspects can indicate more long term illnesses and personal weaknesses in immunity.

Within a natal chart there is allot of information that can tell us of a persons predisposition to certain health problems, through my own review I've confirmed a lot of them for myself over the years (which of course you are more then welcomed to debate for yourself) but there's still many that I cant help but question due to the planetary relationship and elemental constitution.

Before I start into a new rant on the planets and the illnesses associated with them, it may be best to keep in mind that although the aspects may be in the natal chart it does not means that are in effect.

At some point in time, the transits or progressions will trigger the aspects for the expected health problem to occur, or at the very least stir the symptoms.

Of course after saying that it is also possible that these illnesses may never occur, or individuals die from other illnesses or accidents before they can be initiated – some people through diligence and precaution may even successfully challenge the planetary influence sufficiently enough on the internal plane to avoid it's lesson from being manifested physically.

I suspect and find plausible that there are other indicators that also determine how serious an effect an illness will have on an individual, mostly depending on the degree on the ascendant and the longitude of the planets and the signs in detriment or debility.

While looking at a chart in search of health it is suggested that one looks first at the riling planet.

That's is of course to say look at the planet that rules the sign on the ascendant. If you are looking at a Taurus ascendant, look at what is happening to Venus etc

While this is being held in mind look for the Aspects.

Squares = Difficult and strongest effect.
Oppositions = Difficult but open to early engagement.
Conjunctions = Effect is noticeable but changeable.
Minor aspects = Most changeable, except semisextile (30 degree's) which continually portray a difficult effect.

It is also important to take into consideration the combination of planets that are involved in an aspect to the ruling planet. Each will have some deeper correspondence with the health problems.

Here's a rundown of some of the traditional health problems most associated with such aspects:

Pluto: (That which consumes)
Contagious disease
Polio
Paralysis
Severe disability

Uranus: (That which is strange)
Genetic disorders
Lupus
Albino
Irregular chromosomes
Brain damage
Cerebral Palsy
Seizures
Epilepsy
Deformities

Neptune: (That which wastes)
Glandular imbalance
Cancer
Lethargy
Leukaemia

Jupiter: (That which is excess)
Blood disorders
Varicose veins
Phlebitis
Circulation
Diabetes
Obesity
Enlarged heart

Saturn: (That which diminishes)
Skin conditions
Asthma
Arthritis
Allergies
Bone diseases
Gauntness
Hearing
Dwarfism

Mars:(That which inflames)
Inflamatory disease
Scarlet fever
Rheumatic fever
Yellow fever
Encephalitis

Venus:(That which is stillness)
Kidney disease
Throat ailments

Mercury: (That which keeps silent)
Respiratory ailments
Lung problems

Moon:(That which flows)
Hydrocephelus
Edema
Lymphatic ailments
Poor constitution

Sun:(That which sees)
Blindness
Heart ailments

**When dealing with the aspects:

Moon = Cold
Mercury = Minor injuries / digestive problem
Venus = Virus / sore throat / injury by glass / laryngitis
Mars = Fever / Headache
Jupiter = Swelling and infection / abscess
Saturn = Asthma attack / weight loss / stress / backache
Uranus = Nervousness
Neptune = Loss of energy / sleepiness / dizziness
Pluto = Contagious diseases.

To note though that the Moons aspect depends on the phase that aspects your natal Sun.

If it's not a Moon phase it doesn't have an effect. For an example, if the first quarter Moon is at 27 degrees of Virgo it will square my Sun and you'll be highly susceptible to getting a cold. If the first quarter Moon is at 1 degrees of Virgo, when the Moon moves past 27 degrees it will have little or no effect.

I hope this has illuminated the determining of susceptibility to various illnesses. As when the arena of illness is located and the planetary power is drawn to attention much can be done to correct the situation and aid healing by channelling the aspect through it's more dignified setting.

Mercury Direct - Fresh winds in the sails

Yesterday Mercury the celestial power of communication moved back to its forward progression. If like myself and countless others you've been plagued with frustrated misunderstandings, communication problems, computer issues, or transport or travel difficulties (people of the passport office you shall see me AGAIN shortly!) thankfully now everything will be in the process of adjusting back to a flow of normality.

**Enter chorus of joyful angels singing**

Mercury rules the mind, thought and all forms of communication; as the immortal wing-footed messenger of the gods he also rules transport, transmission and travel. Mercury is also a relatively small planet who spins around the sun in a tight orbit and stands as the passing medium between the earth and that of the sun. Mercury represents the speed of thought and the mental gifts: that of analysis, reason, logic, knowledge, learning, education and even intelligence itself.

Mercury is the power that restlessly chatters behind Gemini's reputation for witty, lively, amusing conversation as well as there passion for the technological age. In today's world where communication, transport, travel and swiftness are so important, Mercury is a god with greater influence and recognition than he had in ancient times.

Although a patron of the technological age Mercury still presides over none-technical forms of communication like conversation, gossip, speeches, all forms of writing, comics, people watching and has sway in documentaries and even movies. It is said that even the ways we 'speak,' personally and culturally, are within his domain.Where the sign Mercury was visiting at the moment of our births reveals our personal style of communication, the ways in which we think and learn.

For example, if you have Mercury in Scorpio you would be an intense communicator who gets to the heart of the matter with sometimes brutal and unbridled directness.

While a Mercury in Cancer might try to communicate all the shifting emotions and thoughts that course through their mind by being somewhat intimate and revealing allot of there emotional sensitivity in order to create a sense of empathy.

If you were born with Mercury retrograde your style of communication is often quite different from those around you, which is often interpreted as eccentricity but also gives you the benefit having an startlingly unusual array of interesting ideas along side the challenge of having those ideas understood and appreciated by others around you.

Mercury makes this transit three times a year, for three weeks at a time. To the ancients it was because of his swift fast pace and huge responsibilities and demand that a regular period of rest and rejuvenation was in order. Whenever possible, we should try to adjust to work with his rhythms, as such cosmic currents set to serve us well.

The retrograde Mercury is a change in course; it seeks to make the demands of reassessment, review and reappraisal. In order to get our attention and therefore promote our positive action, Mercury is said to disrupt communications which force us to notice things that were done haphazardly or undisciplined and to set them right.

If you've experienced communication issues with loved ones or co-workers the Mercury retrograde is a time of review that revealed where you need to correct matters or at the very least acknowledge problems.

If you haven't had time to reflect on how Mercury has revealed what need to be addressed, now with the fresh transition is the perfect time to do so.With Mercury again available to get communication going clearly and effectively; he lends all his quickness and clarity to fix any areas that were affected. If these times are used properly, in which we at first during the retrograde slow down and notice problems, then afterwards correct the problems, communications year 'round go more smoothly.

The problem is that in the modern world of ours we hate to stop moving forward - all the time. To plan for a Mercury Retrograde, schedule time with as little important communications and travel as possible; and then afterwards make necessary readjustments.

This careful use of Mercury will put you into touch with the natural astrological rhythms - the Music of the Spheres and make such knowledge of a fresh direct a welcomed continual initiation into being a more whole'istic person.

The Synastry of physical attraction

Synastry is the art of relationship Astrology. It is a somewhat fascinating and illuminating study of how individuals interact with one another, how the factors of there natal chart find conflict and companionship.

Many of us are familiar with the study of Sun Sign Compatibility and often ask akin to "Does a Cancerian get along with a Leo?" and while these comparisons have some value, they are very general and often just based on a elemental correspondence between the signs.

For a more accurate and overall impression of compatibility between two people many other factors are involved in the evaluation.

Although Synastry itself is a very complex system, we can all (with a little effort) turn to some especially useful methods of studying relationships that will help shed light on our interactions.

With the upcoming Valentines in mind below are some of the traditional pointers of physical compatibility.

When somebody's Mars falls in your 5th house, heart-pounding reactions and strong romantic/sexual desires and crushes can be activated. You want each other, although the attraction may not last long unless there are other stable aspects and positions in your synastry.

When somebody's Mars falls in your 8th house, that person inspires deep sexual urges and physical desires in you.

A conjunction of someone's Mars to any angle (that is, the Ascendant, Descendant, Midheaven-10th cusp, or IC - 4th cusp) in your natal chart will pull out gut reactions and intensity of desire--although the feelings can go either way.

Mars-Sun conjunctions, squares, and oppositions usually inspire a need to make the relationship physical and generate a sort of "buzz" of energy between the two people involved. Trines generate some physical attraction, but of a more pleasant kind.

Venus-Mars conjunctions and squares can inspire quite a bit of fuss and sexual interest, while Venus-Mars sextiles and trines offer a more pleasing, less in-your-face attraction.

Venus-Pluto conjunctions, squares, and oppositions are one of the most potent cross-aspects for sexual and emotional attraction. Although both people are generally attracted to each other, it is the Venus person who is the most enthralled and even obsessed with Pluto—Venus is consumed with the attraction. Ultimately, it is the Pluto person who has the upper hand in terms of whether the relationship is going to endure.

Moon-Mars aspects can generate strong feelings that are often both physical and emotional at once, with the Mars person involved taking most of the initiative in the relationship, which can be very attractive to the Moon person (at least at the outset of the relationship).

Venus-Uranus conjunctions and squares can generate so much interest to the point of enthrallment, and often result in sexual activity between people before they know each other well.

This can be a confusing and destabilizing contact in the long term, but these aspects generally inspire initial attraction. When these relationships last, the Uranus person is often seen as inconstant by the Venus person and there can be many ups and downs.

Mars-Pluto conjunctions and squares are often powerful indicators of initial attraction and sexual intrigue. Trines don't necessarily draw people together, but once together, they are some of the most powerfully sexual aspects between two charts.

Ascendant-Ascendant conjunctions, sextiles, and trines, while not as strong as the indicators above, give a pleasing sense of physical harmony.

When someone's 8th house planet or ruler of their 8th house forms a strong aspect with one or more of your planets, you are likely to ignite passion in that person.

The asteroid Eros also plays a role in sexual attraction as well. Most potent are Eros-Venus, Eros-Ascendant, Eros-Psyche, and Eros-Mars links. Conjunctions, oppositions, and trines are often seen as best.

A couples guide for surviving Valentines day

Today after drifting pass a battle like march of waving Valentine balloons I had myself a bit of thinking (yes, I too can have my moments) that with all the fuss of Valentines day and the fierce spirit of expensive romantic restaurant meals and hallmark cards in love full bloom, that we can all, all to often allow the focus of intrigue and Eros to blind us to the daily supplication and maintenance of what we already possess.

So much so that I did a little bit of tinkering about the astro chart in an attempt to tap into the essence of the day and to stir some thought on what may help to maintain a sense of unity and harmony with the other half in the year to come -

Here are the points that came to me – they may be worth the ponder!

Venus in Aries and the first house;
Have realistic expectations for your relationship.

The teaching of this aspect is direct in its intention for people to realise that their relationship will be different than they had planned and thought it would be. Unrealistic expectations can ruin and undermine the hopes and aspirations of what is really just a normal stage of getting to know each other better.

While at first those dreamy eyes of your beloved may excuse the fact that they are regularly late to go out to dinner, or deny the annoyance of having to watch a game of footie or soapy and those magical kisses can dismiss a messy house that later makes you want to kick down a door and attack the place with a vacuum (ok, ok I've being there! lol) but when we remember ahead of time that we will have growing pains throughout a relationship it will help when us to notice these little things bothering you and therefore more enabled to overcome them. The Moon in

Libra enters the seventh house;
Commit to lifelong relationship:

Although this seems to inspire a sense of horror in most people to making this decision can help us when we faced with disappointing times in your relationship or allow us to remove ourselves from something we do not feel is worth it.

A strong union is not build only on happiness (although there will be much of that... thankfully), it is built on a commitment to one another. All unions are going to go through a change physically and emotionally and we ourselves will also change in their eyes. Making a commitment to the other to help them through the sicknesses, financial stresses, disagreements and unforeseen issues can end up doing far more then just strengthening a loving bond as you tackle them together.

Saturn in opposition to Uranus;
Realize you were made differently;

Such a fundamental idea is easy to see from our physical differences. From our very features to the clothes that we wear, however, in a relationship we can get mixed up into thinking we should each want to snuggle, kiss, socialize, spend money and look at situations the same which can lead to great frustration, confusion and agitation.

In understanding and remembering that we we are different and that we are therefore to some degree made to think and act differently, when we encounter a differences of opinions a friendly lets just agree to disagree attitude can be all that is needed to lighten the air.

Jupiter and Mars are aligned in Aquarius in the twelfth house;
Have a plan to resolve conflict.

It is important when faced with a conflict to have a workable tool designed to help us through
our issues. Even though I only go dancing occasionally (thankfully... and much to the horror of those who have to endure my near seizure like dance on the dance floor) I believe it it to be a great example.

While dancing most dance as a team, (just like in a union) using each other’s rhythm to flow with the music. The same is true in compromising. Both throw out ideas and motions and both use it to move to new actions rather then continue to replay the same old rigid routine of self construction. When we come to a workable compromise, we both win, no matter who came up with the idea. We don’t win by challenging each other; we win by working off each other’s strengths. Either both win in a union or you both lose.

Mercury aligned with Pluto;
Spend quality time together:

This is the basic logic of Mercury that is often overthrown by Pluto but as we live in a busy hectic world in where we are kept busy with work, tv, the Internet, blog reading, spending time with friends and family, our hobbies, chores, commitments... along with so many other things to occupy our time. How many of us had best friends that are now past acquaintances because we didn't stay in touch?

The same can come to pass in relationships; while of course there's no expectations to be joined at the hip (and in truth he'd probably of muffled me by now) but spending some quality time together, heading out for dinner, a movie, a drive, going for a romantic walk, kiss and cook together, or just simply do something that will lighten the communal load.

When we refuse to let other less important things get in the way of the relationship, and if we come to feel they are more important than perhaps we should re-evaluate what is really important to ourselves and our loved one.

I believe the old saying is still true: we don’t realize what we have until it’s gone. Relationships are a great and rewarding gift to be shared with those that we love, but it is also one of the hardest things we will ever experience. Staying together takes work, and as it should – as a loved one should never be overlooked or taken for granted.We can mistake love as a magical thing; it simply happens because it’s love.

Yet we have been told over and over again by speakers and on plaques: “Love is kind, patient, doesn’t envy and doesn’t seek its own way.” which certainly sounds like there is allot for us to consider in our own behaviour for the success of the union.

A sign of the times...

For the last few weeks now it seems that my own personal horoscopes has been setting me up for some disappointment. Although it has successfully promised success at work and in my personal life, and extolled the virtues of patience and humility while these blessings come to fruition. If the early stargazers knew anything about the variations of Cancarian they would realize that patience in the promise of reward is not an attribute that characterizes our often stubborn, type-A personalities.

I'm making my way though Gay Astrology by Michael Yawney (I thought it best that after such a earlier rant and large amount of quotation of older sources that it was about time that I explored more modern takes on Gay astrology as well as review the given theories) and I must admit that in a partial defiance of all I said that I have never felt more closely defined by my primary sun sign of Cancer.

Sometime ago I noticed that gay men seem to be more adherent to the principles and practices of astrology than others, something that has always intrigued me. For all around our world, our country, our family, even with our government we seem to be guided by social and interpersonal influences to a predetermined particular religion or path; but the zodiac is all encompassing and quite arbitrary. It requires no initiation to be an Capricorn, no special ceremony to declare ourselves a Sagittarius, it’s as simple as the range of dates your birth falls on and yet as complicated as the way the stars aligned at that special time to determine what course our fate would travel and our personality would develop.

So do we gays love the inclusiveness, the idea that our star sign, like our sexuality, was gifted at birth, another trait out of our control? Or the fact that its most often used system of belief not only fails to dominies our sexual behaviour, but also doesn’t bother to overtly state or even consider that we are to be accepted?

In my earlier collage days a strong willed Taurus house mate could tell a Leo before they ever share their sign with him, his resentment for these late summer birthday celebrators runs so deep. I myself too on occasion sometimes shudder when I discover a boy I’m interested in shares the sun sign of certain exes. I may even, like many others out there think better of allowing the relationship to continue without some serious review.

Debating as we all do in the trusting of a greater force or the denial of there possibility, for trusting in something does not mean one remains blind to the pondering's that it is all our minds, and in saying that the debating of the credibility, despite years of example of the stars really dictate our fate is something I find grounding – like a spinning compass the stars direct, but we alone choose the path, and as a astrologer and follower of the ways of astrology it is all to easy to forget that people are more then the titles we give them.

In slow accordance to exploring the book I still hadn’t recompiled a list of my best lovers and cross-referenced with their particular sign (as although I have a deep seated passion for Astrology, when it comes to my personal life I have decided that I would rather explore openly the possibilities of others as individuals rather then begin my own process of preempting there motions, I've being there once and to be honest it's quite addictive and while it can provide a very informative and reliable platform for information allowing a passion to consume is rarely in benefit of the art itself) but from what I can remember I wasn't at all surprised of the similarities emerging.

For now I recall it was a nasty Sagittarius that took my virginity, a slippery Pisces who first captured my imagination, the forward Taurus who first took my breath away in bed, and the proud Leo who first stole my heart. Each as different as his sign, and I still can’t help but wonder what each says about my sexual appetite.

Like always (for some things may never change) I still don’t think Gay Astrology or any of the books on astrology can answer this in definitively for me, for what astrology teach us is about ourselves, our love lives, our passion, our essence in perpetual motion and that the stars are constantly changing.

One night Mars may rise in Venus’s house and the next he’s going down on Uranus. Our many loves and lovers may be born under the house of Saturn or the banner of fall, but it is up to us to listen to own inner astrologer and chart our course for what makes us feel ecstatic.

While listening to and interpellating the flow of a sign is of great importance in making yourself aware of the possibilities ahead, they do not always limit or define the situation – as they are simply not meant to, and while horoscopes and natal charts have being in recent times moved to the entertainment section, there link with the deeply mysterious and wildly divine divinational process remains constant and a willing bedfellow for anyone willing to explore there place in the living world.

“What’s your sign?” is a pick-up line that is in recent times seeing a sort of resurgence, well at least in the life of my friends. And although we may not always be happy with the response, it is best to try to keep an open mind, just like that the way stars may change, the planets realign and you can find yourself in heavenly bliss.

It may fade when the stars disappear with the sun, but as long as the universe continues to shift and adjust, our possibilities for love and lust remain as endless as the skies above. And that’s something you could never say about a fortune cookie.

Horoscopes - the week ahead

Aries - March 21 to April 20 - "I am"With Aries in the 4th house and Venus, the planet of love and romance, not due to return to your sign until early next month, it is best not try and push or force things too soon. Your focus needs to be on finding the right balance between work and play, so that you can have it all. Don't worry about the how or the when, just make sure that when it comes, you're ready. Kindness beings its own reward.

Taurus - April 21 to May 21 - "I possess"With Taurus and Vesta in the 8th house, you can be assured that passion and the setting of romantic goals will come into a greater focus. Later this week Jupiter also makes it's visit to your domain, making the seeds sown at this time one's that will carry far more auspicious potential the usual. With such a combination you should be far more open to embrace the concept of positive change.

Gemini - May 22 to June 21 - "I think" You begin the week with Mercury in a retrograde motion in your financial sector, causing some communication breakdowns, but more importantly giving the past a voice in order for your future to be heard. On Wednesday, Mercury leaves that aspect, and on ending his retrograde phase ignites the flow of financial progression and stability. Fulfil the choices you have made by action on them.

Cancer - June 22 to July 22 - "I feel"The new solar year beginning on Monday will be one that's destined to open up a whole new future, with life's Wheel of Fortune finally turning your way. At the same time the doors to the past will for now remain open, allowing you to pick and choose what you want, with second chances and new opportunities both there for the taking. The question do you truly know what you want...

Leo - July 23 to Aug 23 - "I shine"Not only do you have Mars, planet of drive, urging you to move beyond the wounds of the past, you also have Saturn is in retrograde motion in your relationship sector, stirring doubts and anxieties of where you are and where you wish to be. Let this be a lesson well learned, as no words or actions will ever convince you of anything other then what you want to believe. You are enough.

Virgo - Aug 24 to Sept 22 - "I critique"This week with Virgo and Pisces in opposition it reveals just how many different layers and varied opportunities there are on the professional front, giving you an early indication of the positive year that awaits ahead Take responsibility for past mistakes, knowing that it's by looking back and seeing what you could have done differently, that you'll learn not to make the same mistakes again.

Libra - Sept 23 to Oct 23 - "I choose"With Libra in the 12th house you are more then overdue a fresh start, and the current stillness is the dawn about to break. Something has been worrying you for several days and it's about time it gets sorted out. As your aspects move back into a familiar pattern you will get the chance to discuss the matter with people you trust. Be honest with them, and with yourself. Travel calls but adventure answers.

Scorpio - Oct 24 to Nov 22 - "I desire"With Scorpio Rising and Pluto in Sagittarius it reveals a need to cleanse, revise, and expand your beliefs about the nature of life. Dogmatism, zealous and one-sided convictions need to be shed in order for you to fulfil your deeper desires. You need to believe enough in yourself in order to succeed otherwise you will never grow beyond the doubts sowed by those that know little about you.

Sagittarius - Nov 23 to Dec 21 - "I aspire"With the Moon in Sagittarius there is a greater sense of sensitivity and a focus on your own reactions, habits, and emotions that influence the conduct of your private life and family relationships. Astrological aspects suggest that you are resisting the change you have called for, denying your very own sense of freedom by accepting things as they are. Fight for you.

Capricorn - Dec 22 to Jan 20 - "I build"With fiery Mars in the more orderly sign of Capricorn, this position will subdue and control how you are approaching life. Mostly you won't come across as particularly enthusiastic; rather, more of a low-key but determined force. Right now your emotions and personal biases are apt enough to cloud your objectivity, so a realistic guide of self reflection may be of great benefit.

Aquarius - Jan 21 to Feb 18 - "I know"With the sun moving into Aquarius now is your time to shine, the renewed energy and enthusiasm will be a great for the days ahead. But be careful not to take on more then you can handle, as you may find yourself burning the candle at both ends. Be sure to put some of your energy into soul-searching – for now more then ever its the seeding of an important future harvest.

Pisces - Feb 19 to March 20 -"I care"Putting aside the lingering effects and confronted memory of the Venus's force of wayward want within your family unit, the abode of Pisces is somewhat quiet. This may be in direct reflection of not truly communicating and discussing the problems, issues and complaints that are in earnest need of rectification. Speak your mind and lay your worries to rest, as its about time!