Every 20 years, these two visible planets line up with one another, but this year is precise. Since the closeness of Jupiter and Saturn sparks the beginning and end of a cycle, we might see this astronomical highlight as the harbinger of a true new age… the acceleration of which is dependent on our willingness to release the patterns of the past.

The week of the 2020 Winter Solstice is an auspicious week in many ways. As we say adios to 2020, you don’t need me to tell you that this has been a year for the ages. Although this has been grueling, it has been appropriate, because for decades we have hovered on the entrance to the Aquarian Age. With the Jupiter Saturn conjunction on December 21, 2020 those who cling to the past will lose their grip with increasing alacrity.

The 2020 celestial phenomena that we’ve experienced through synastry of Earth’s interpretation has created irrevocable shifts. Regardless of your political alliance, the slogan “Make America Great Again” mirrored the Saturn in Capricorn allegiance to past patterns. Whatever is ahead with “Build Back Better” seems to recognize that old infrastructure has got to go; this is the natural segue as Saturn enters Aquarius but with Jupiter also in Aquarius the impetus magnifies.

The December 14 Solar Eclipse / Sagittarius New Moon set the stage for the denouement of 2020, how we build the foundation and move forward in 2021. That doesn’t mean on January 1, 2021 everything magically is better — but it does mean that energetically we have passed through what has felt like for many like the gates of Hades or Inanna’s journey into the Underworld. In mythology, when people go into the underworld they don’t typically come out again as mortal… if they can come out at all.

Yet a descent to Hell/Hades/Underworld is a metaphor for going into the very darkness within and being reborn. What’s so pivotal with the pandemic is that legions of humans are having this experience in tandem. The experience is different depending on their class, country, personal life, beliefs, but most people have been changed in some way during 2020. The more work and self-reflection they’ve done, the greater the transformation.

So here we are at this winter solstice which is so symbolic of birth and new beginnings. The winter solstice marks roughly three days of darkness until the light starts to come back in; this dovetails of course, with the christian story of the Christ’s birth on Christmas day (an intentional pairing from the early days of the church).

On the winter solstice the northern hemisphere is at the shortest day of the year (a different story in the southern hemisphere). Regardless of hemisphere, we are at a time when the relationship of the sun and the earth moves into its next half. The solstice points occur when the sun is either as far north or as far south as it gets from the equator; it appears to stand still and then come back. Therefore it marks a point when from our perspective we “reset” for another half of the year — and ideally clean out whatever clogs growth.

So the solstice points are very charged; we have come to the end of the zip line… as we kick off, reset and come back, we have the opportunity for a new orientation and fresh perspective. How have we have viewed all this?

A solstice always offers a point of reflection.

The December 21, 2020 Solstice is major because of the Jupiter Saturn conjunction. The Solstice point of 0° Capricorn occurs at 5:03 AM ET. The Great Conjunction of Jupiter and Saturn are in exact alignment at 1:21 PM ET. These planets don’t move as fast as Mercury, so you will still see that bright point in the night sky on a clear night.

This conjunction is a big deal with astronomers because not since 1226 has Earth been able to observe such a close alignment of Jupiter and Saturn.

For those fortunate enough to see it, it may appear as though you can see a star point as the planet Jupiter steps in front of Saturn’s orbit. This bright light in the heavens after such a challenging year does seem to signify hope. It does symbolically light the way for our future.

More about the astrology of this Great Conjunction

Work in tandem with the 2020 Winter Solstice and welcome the future. The past is a foundation but will not stay. The air sign Aquarius embraces youthful energy; it doesn’t mean those of us who are over 30 become obsolete, but it does mean that the opportunity for young voices, youthful ideas and exuberant experimentation ushers in possibilities that have not been encouraged prior to this point in time.

This is different than simply pushing products to capture the young. Jupiter Saturn in Aquarius can incubate and encourage bold and brave concepts for a new world.

The day of the solstice has nebulous energy: clean up, deconstruct, put things in order and set the stage for the next scene.

When the exact alignment of Jupiter Saturn happens the Pisces moon is void of course, which suggests that what takes form is inchoate and sensitive to mass consciousness. It’s imperative that those of us who welcome innovation, change, experimentation, creativity, youthful endeavor, imagination and possibilities — hold that space over this span of time because of the opposing forces. There are people who feel lost, unmoored and even dread the future, so the more energy that’s directed into hopefulness and exuberance, the higher the boat floats in the sea of confusion… and that boat is capable of unlimited possibilities.

The Great Conjunctions correspond with shifts in society, culture and finance. In 1226 it was also in the sign of Aquarius, and the beginning of many interrelation shifts that occurred into the 14th century. As people moved around and traded more, systems of trade were modified; Marco Polo brought the concept of paper money from China. There was tremendous aggression to build empires, affecting Russia, Europe, Asia and Africa and Mexico… and many of them dissolved by the end of the cycle. Yet in spite of the denouement of the Crusades. architecture solved ways to seek light and the sky for cathedrals.

In the area that was to become California, indigenous tribes communicated through a common language: Athapascan, while keeping their own within the tribe. Zen Buddhism was brought to Japan… but so did the Inquisition under Pope Gregory IX.

There were temperature fluctuations, commonly known as the “Medieval Warm Period” which should hasten our commitment to eradicating pollutants that exacerbate this. If climate fluctuations are a natural process of the Earth, humans need to work with this instead of thinking we can tame it.

There was another Great Conjunction of close alignment in 1623, but it was not visible here on Earth since the planets also aligned with the Sun. It seems fitting since 1623 began a fire cycle, It is worth noting, that also dovetailed with the Jamestown settlement that eventually led to the USA. Born of a fire cycle, the USA came to be the world power during an earth cycle and now with the air cycle — how will the States shift?

Saturn in Aquarius = responsibility to the community and the future… let’s make it happen!

Master Healer Suzy Meszoly and I, offer our ActiveSpirituality weekly podcasts for free at this time. Go to ActiveSpirituality.Life and sign up for a weekly astrology forecast and Suzy’s activation meditation.

Aquarius Jupiter Saturn — The Great Conjunction is a post from: Insight Oasis

Astrology Musings for Election 2020

This USA election season is far too volatile to predict with accuracy. Let’s discuss the importance of each vote. The USA heads for its Pluto Return in 2022.

Whichever party wins this election will be at the helm during this period of irrevocable transformation.

We already experience the return to some of the themes that lead up to 1776: the division of those who objected to “taxation without representation” and those loyal to the Crown. 

Of course there are many variables in the groups who feel overtaxed and underrepresented; the spectrum includes Libertarians who believe everyone should pay their own way and dwellers of Blue States who feel they pay the most tax yet have the least voice.

Those in power know that every vote counts. With Mars Retrograde, the GOP in Texas fights to toss votes made through a drive-in option. Their argument is that it’s UnAmerican… but the concept of “drive-in” a distinctively American signature.

Regardless of who wins this election, the USA heads for upheaval and change. 

The Donald Trump presidency has created four years of high alert. Tempting as it may be, one man cannot be blamed for this country’s reckoning. Had Hillary Clinton won in 2016, the USA would still be at a crossroads — but how and why we got here would have been a different passage. Because it was Trump, a large body of more moderate voters may be willing to risk more progressive action.

Trump’s message was that he was going to dismantle the bloated government and run it like a profitable business to benefit the people. His message resonated with many because the Pluto Return demands economic and institutional overhaul. Dismantle structures and tailor new ones to suit today’s nation. However, grand gestures with no concrete foundation allow opportunists to seize the vacuums and propel their own agenda.

Trump’s nodal return is lit up Election Day 2020. The Nodal Return happens about every 18-19 years. The Nodal Return provides opportunities to realize what are you here to strive for in this lifetime; this requires effort and a willingness to learn unfamiliar territory. Since Donald Trump was born at the Lunar Eclipse, the experience is deeply personal for him. Both his ego and emotional reactions get activated. He responds to the call to lead, succeed in his chosen profession and to be the authority, that’s the North Node in his 10th House. But there’s more to it than that.

Ego and emotional reactions don’t necessarily help us grow into our destiny. Especially when the Sun (ego) and Moon (emotions) are challenged as they are in Donald Trump’s horoscope. We need a great deal of self-awareness and reflection to climb out of childhood blocks or we perpetuate an arrested psychological development. Donald Trump is not a person who put any work into confronting his issues; he would view to do so as a sign of weakness.

Trump’s North Node is in the sign of Gemini. That means this lifetime is about listening, partnerships, sharing ideas, gathering information, community involvement and playful curiosity.

Donald Trump is to be a leader AND a team player — the latter is where he seems to have trouble. He has the potential to tease out the other side’s POV and dance together. Yet it’s very difficult for Donald Trump to embrace this energy; because of his need to be right, he can sabotage the give and take required for sustainable success. 

As my old friend, marriage counselor, Melinda Martin used to say: “do you want to be right or do you want to be in a relationship?”

Donald Trump seems far more comfortable to slip into old behaviors of the Sagittarius South Node. Unfortunately, this unconscious habit emphasizes the negative traits of the south node sign. We can use our South Node strengths as a foundation to spring into the North Node destiny. But when we cling to the “default” behaviors, it stunts our growth. In the habit of Sagittarius, this reflects as arrogant, immoderate, foot in mouth, shoot from the hip, spread all over the place and loutish. 

In order for Trump to succeed at this time he’d do well to open into his keen desire to gather knowledge and widen his community. This would mean talking to people in other media networks, the other party and the citizens who he serves.

If he wins the presidency for a second term without doing this, he has no incentive to deepen into his North Node. This would not only be unfortunate for the USA, but for his own spiritual development. Every nodal return is an opportunity for growth, but it requires a desire to accomplish the harder task, in this case, reciprocal partnerships and communication.

If he doesn’t win, he still benefits from broadening his communication and listening skills. It certainly is possible, but the older one gets the more attached to past behaviors. He’s had this opportunity before, every 18-19 years.

Both candidates are affected by Mars Retrograde in Aries. When Mars is retrograde, it’s harder to move forward, especially for people with strong natal Mars placements. Donald Trump puts his Mars rising front and center; he plows in like a tank and stays behind its armor. With Leo Rising and Leo Mars he acts the part more than he’s actually invested in the fight. Hence his tendency to bail or shut the other down if they don’t bow to his blunt weaponry.

In spite of his public persona, Joe Biden is a very private man. With a stellium in Scorpio he plays the long game. Joe Biden’s Scorpio planets, including Mars, map out strategy for the stealth attack.

Mars in Scorpio cannot be deterred from its course of action. Biden will figure out another route if the original one doesn’t work. One should not underestimate the ferocity under the genial surface. In a way, the retrograde may be working to an advantage for Biden to curb his unfettered verbal gaffes.

Biden’s Taurus Moon indicates tenacity, loyalty and with Scorpio emphasis stubborn persistence. The transiting Capricorn planets of Jupiter, Saturn and Pluto stimulate his Scorpio planets in a harmonious sextile. This bodes well for him; of the two men’s Election 2020 transits, this may be more indicative of a Biden win. 

With Biden’s North Node in Virgo, that long goal has been to serve. He has used his South Node in Pisces to draw on his strong faith. This faith has allowed him to come to terms with profound loss and then utilize those losses as connective tissue for the service he’s here to do. 

Because Mars has been retrograde in the sign of Aries, anyone on the attack stands to receive a boomerang consequence of their own aggression. In other words, this is not a time to go on the offensive. Although this is a challenge during a presidential campaign, we can look at who has been the more aggressive candidate or where a fight started. 

Perhaps the biggest assault has been on the right to vote and for votes to be counted.

The irony with Mars Retrograde is that denying counts of mail and limiting poll access could also affect the party that has demanded those limitations. Unfortunately, as Mars goes direct on November 13, violence and unrest continue regardless of who wins. 

Because Mercury goes Direct on Election Day 2020, as it did in 2000, it seems inevitable to expect public outcry and demands for recount. Aside from Mars Retrograde, another big difference in 2020 is the Gemini Moon. This emphasizes the need for a message to be heard. Gemini is the sign that relates to youthful expression. The votes of young people stand to be clear and because of the Mercury station direct, tip the election.

The other person with a strong Mars in this picture is Kamala Harris. She has an Aries Moon and Leo Mars which shows that she knows how to grab attention.

Like Biden, Mars Retrograde may be helping her in spite of feeling held back; yes, she shines on stage or as she sprints across a tarmac, but she has toned it down to complement her running mate.

Harris is a Libra and like Trump, has the Gemini North Node. However, Kamala Harris seems to have utilized her Sagittarius South Node to develop her legal expertise. She has gone on record to take responsibility for judicial decisions that did not always reflect how she felt but that she asserted because that was her job.

She does not hide behind pompous South Node retorts (even though they may play in her head). Listening skills are how knowledge can be transmitted in ways the recipient can understand — she hears where someone comes from and then works to find a way to connect. That’s the Gemini North Node in action.

Kamala Harris is not easy to paint in the usual negative tropes, although her adversaries try. They know that she’s a torpedo under a deceptively calm persona. With Venus in Virgo, she favors a neat tailored look yet doesn’t shy from a bit of glam (Mars in Leo). The Leo/Virgo merge lends itself to a sphinx aura, but since she was born at the Uranus/Pluto conjunction her capacity to orchestrate transformational change should not be underestimated. She has the ingredients to make the waves that those entrenched in the status quo fear.

Biden and she share Mercury in Scorpio which allows them to communicate with depth. It also allowed them to bridge differences and come to an understanding as running mates. She aims for that Gemini North Node by recognizing the value of listening, humor and partnerships. 

An example of how she has used her expertise to connect with humor occurred in 2014 when she said young people were “stupid”. It’s important to know the context of that remark. Her adversaries use that one word as an attack, when actually she sought the need to provide initiatives to reduce recidivism rates for young, low-level offenders.

I don’t know about you, but I certainly made some stupid decisions before the frontal lobe of my brain was fully developed. Harris connected with her audience by reminding them of their own youth as she appealed for empathy within the criminal justice system. This is an adroit use of south node experience for the Gemini North Node desire to give voice for a community.

Harris also has connections with the USA chart that indicate she can be a champion for the people. Joe Biden has been the long-distance runner and Kamala Harris stands to grab the torch for the sprint. This can be pivotal in 2024 when Uranus is in square to the USA Moon… but more about that when we see what happens over the next month.

As the country experiences so much division from seeming opposite camps, it’s of interest that these three people are all born at the time of full moons, when the sun is in the opposite sign. A major lesson of the full moon is integration.

Biden and Harris as a ticket have stronger transits for a win. If Donald Trump were to get the presidency once more, I would not refer to it as a win. Sometimes winning is to lose.

If you have the right to vote in the US election, please do so — a strong turnout reflects the majority and this election determines how the USA processes its Pluto Return of irrevocable transformation.

Astrology and Election 2020 is a post from: Insight Oasis

The chart of the death announcement has Aries Rising with the Gemini North Node in the 3rd house (this is Gemini’s natural house with its emphasis on communication). Her granddaughter reported that RBG said “My most fervent wish is that I not be replaced until a new president is installed”.

Since Mars (symbolizes action, desire, aggression, drive) is at present retrograde in the sign of Aries, the passions unleashed with her death know no bounds. The president questioned the veracity of her last wish. Since Mercury (planet of communications) goes retrograde in mid October, we can expect continual undercurrents and eruptions that stem from her death.

RBG died right before the Autumn Equinox, when we look back at what sparked the Spring Equinox (the zodiacal start of the New Year). At that time, NYC turned the lights off on Broadway because of COVID-19 and the city shut down. NYS drew a hard line to save lives while so many parts of the US called COVID-19 a hoax.

As we reflect on these 6 months, there are 200,000+ deaths in the USA. How will we integrate this information as we look forward to gage the next 6 months? The Libra Sun at 0° opens the Autumn Equinox; Libra is the sign symbolized by the scales of a balance because it seeks reciprocity, equality and the exchange of ideas. At the time of this equinox, the Moon was in Sagittarius, which symbolizes among other things, justice and the legal system. The Moon equals the mood of the people, so many recognize this time as critical. 

RBG was asked on NPR about enlarging the SC: “Nine seems to be a good number. It’s been that way for a long time. If anything, [it] would make the court look partisan. It would be that — one side saying, ‘When we’re in power, we’re going to enlarge the number of judges, so we would have more people who would vote the way we want them to.”

Perhaps she recognized the value in an equal number of justices with conflicting views. There is wisdom in a balanced SC; she held a friendship with Scalia which reflected that.

The exact time of RBG’s birth is unknown, but we do know she was a Pisces Sun with a Scorpio Moon. Venus was also in Pisces, which emphasized her love for style and the arts. Her North Node in Pisces conjunct Ceres speaks to a lifelong journey to craft greater justice, especially for those overlooked because they held up domestic needs.

RBG had absolutely gorgeous eyes, a feature of those with strong Pisces. A diminutive woman, she nonetheless wielded the classic Piscean soft hammer. She quietly pounded her point and when it was not taken into account she drafted a compelling dissent; an Aries Mercury with Mars in Virgo does not require many words, yet hits her mark.

Ruth Bader Ginsburg’s love of opera hits several points in her chart, Pisces, Scorpio and the strong Pluto influence.

When asked in 2017 what she thought about the moniker Notorious RBG, Ginsburg replied “People ask me, ‘don’t you feel uncomfortable with a name like the Notorious RBG? Why should I feel uncomfortable? We have a lot in common. First and foremost, we were both born and bred in Brooklyn, New York.”

Ginsburg also told Charlie Rose she was fully aware of who Notorious B.I.G. was and thought the comparison “seems altogether natural.” This reaction makes sense in regard to her Scorpio Moon which indicates a long memory and allegiance to NYC’s immigrant population. She enjoyed the edge the name gave her. The Scorpio Moon and her Sun trine Pluto are planetary positions that cemented her deep commitment to lasting legacy.

This commitment reflected in the sharp blade of justice and provided her tenacity of dissent.

I looked at Ruth Bader Ginsburg’s natal horoscope and death chart to understand the timing of her loss. This is a big discussion. But to touch on small bites, RBG outlived health conditions that put far younger people out in far less time. Her Scorpio Moon gave her tremendous regenerative ability, as did the Sun trine Pluto.

Some people faulted her for not retiring during Obama’s presidency, but when we look at the Garland debacle, we know that her retirement might have been met with the same brick wall in the Senate.

Timing is everything in astrology and although a shock to many and an opportunity to others, the death of RBG demands a response. She has been freed of the human toll that she carried for so long. She was proud to be an icon and her light is bright. Those who honor her legacy must pick up the torch that she laid down.

Although we don’t know the exact degree of RBG’s Scorpio Moon, the noon time places it at 12°22’. Since Mercury goes retrograde at 11°Scorpio 40’, it seems likely that this coupled with retrograde Mars is going to keep passions high through the election.

Election 2020 stands to reach epic proportions to rival any operatic drama.

Ruth Bader Ginsburg Astrology: Death and Dissent is a post from: Insight Oasis

To see how Aries Mars Retrograde affects you, go to your Sun sign + your Rising Sign AKA Ascendant (if you know it) – the two in tandem provide more dimensional information. This Mars Retrograde period runs from September 9 through November 13, 2020. Keep in mind the weeks leading up to and succeeding this period may carry similar effects depending on your natal horoscope.

ARIES  You may feel like a ram on a train car; a lot of fiery energy held in check. You are moving forward but with restrictions.  Authority figures or power struggles squash your movements resulting in: one step forward, two steps back. You may encounter finger-pointing to declare you the instigator — don’t take the bait! You may need to lick your wounds and see where you can help. The reigns tighten towards the end of September; it may be helpful to see any delay as ways to ensure your best work. Avoid the trap of confrontation in October. You can meet strategic goals and achieve a sense of success by late November when you balance your passion with solid commitment. 

TAURUS Much as you’d like to keep a placid countenance, you seem unable to keep the peace. Others may see you as disruptive or wonder why you keep changing plans. This is not your usual MO, but things have been upside down for awhile. You may feel impatient at times and it’s important to develop flexibility. Not everyone has your back and you may be caught by surprise. You don’t have to play offense, just be sure you protect yourself. Legal situations can present new information when you go over contracts, which can include publishing. If you teach or study, you can find new ways to make that happen once resistance is released.

GEMINI You may be striving to realize your deepest wish, but have experienced limited resources. Although this seems as though it has gone on forever, this period presents a direction you’d not considered. Someone in your network comes back into focus of their own volition or can be revisited. Watch social media. This can lead to reassessments and support from a doorway that had been closed. As long as there is a conversation, there’s a possibility. Fire up your optimism. By the end of the retrograde the barricades start to lift and optimism soars. The turnaround can happen quickly as we approach the end of the year. Have your system in place to go the distance once the light turns green.

CANCER  Your career sprint or it may slow; whatever the velocity, there’s something that needs another look. It’s possible you’re been running on empty, if this is the case it’s best to consider ways you can recharge and still get work down. Often this has to do with delegating or farming out. If you take this time to reassess, your momentum gathers for when Mars is Direct. Otherwise you may have to switch gears in spite of your intentions. This period can also be a reckoning time in partnership or marriage. A defensive response is not your friend. If you’ve been driving towards an achievement, make sure you have the support required to go the distance. If you’ve been on a job-search, go back over roads that seemed to go nowhere because something may have been missed.

LEO If travel plans had changed for you, rebooking or planning may occupy your thoughts. This can be a good time to shop options, If you book, avoid doing so October 14-November 3 when Mercury is Retrograde (yes, Mercury stations on the day of the US Election, more on that to come). Leo writers benefit from editing and republishing. This can also be time to go over legal contracts. If you or a friend’s health has been less than stellar, research and study brings fresh perspective. Ease into any exercise or diet with care. Routines can help with consistent energy flow but its important to stick to the schedule, especially when it seems tough. It’s not how hard you work it, but listen to your body and you are consistent.

VIRGO This is so not the time for speculation, unless you are aiming for the long haul; investments slide. On the other hand, you can explore investment opportunities for the future. If romance feels stagnant this is the perfect time to experiment with ways to stoke desire. You may be focussed too much on pleasing your partner if you get no response. Self-intimacy can jump-start options and creativity.  If ways that you used to play have been curtailed, plan an activity at least once a week that can stimulate you. The retrograde may also awaken intuition and psychic messages.

LIBRA  It may seem as though arguments and disagreements have heightened over the past month. This is not your happy space. Whatever seemed to be the issue needs more exploration. Keep in mind that if someone seems to direct a lot of anger at you, it is valuable to see if you’ve got some dormant anger of your own. Librans do not usually like to own anger unless they can channel is as a force to wield justice. Anger can be useful when we dialogue with it and plan strategies for appropriate discharge. Not everyone deserves the benefit of your conversation. Sometimes they are simply a catalyst to perfect your art of persuasion. How much you engage with another depends on your expectations for the particular relationship. Regardless, real growth can accelerate at the retrograde’s end.

SCORPIO Tweak the exercise and your work routine, especially if you’ve felt limited in your ability to interface with community. There are ways to stimulate your brain and fire the muscles even though the old rituals are kaput. Many of us have to create new realities in order to respect the parameters of COVID-19. Because of your unflinching ability to see something as it is, you know the world has changed. You don’t like these changes since most are out of your control, but no one can shapeshift as well as a Scorpio. Once you accept the new landscape, you can forge infrastructures to facilitate transitions. You can use the retrograde period to come to terms with this and help those around you acclimate and adapt.  By mid November, all systems are “go” and your engine pulses forward with a new dynamic.

SAGITTARIUS An old flame may resurface and demand attention. However, there is a lot of baggage along with this entrance. Of course, reevaluation of the ghosts of loves past can be valuable to process. In some cases this can bring passion which may be welcome or disruptive depending on your present relationship status. Or you may reassess a desire that you’ve shelved, especially if it involves a creative art. You may restring a dusty guitar, audition in the community theater or open a box of paints. If you are motivated to do the work involved and plow through the hard bits, dormant talents reawaken. If you’ve been loathe to take on the responsibility of commitment while you cling to Peter Pan resistance, this period may demonstrate the value in expecting more from yourself. By late November only your dedication to it allows a passion to endure. 

CAPRICORN Ordinarily a home provides shelter and respite from the outside world, but the spring tightens and diminishes comfort. Your ability to recharge at home may be thwarted at present. Find ways to exercise if this has been denied you; youtube offers many options for small spaces. If you’ve been wanting to change locations, use this period to prepare. Even if a move is not the outcome, your home may experience a makeover. Clutter and stuff that prevents movement and fresh perspective is on its way out. Many households have occupants in temporary status and there may be people within your home that long to leave, if not you. Capricorns thrive on heading towards goals and if you’ve been derailed, start smaller DIY projects to stave off depression. Prepare for movement by the end of the year, or if you’re already on the journey, the tweaking involved enables strides at the year’s end.

AQUARIUS Powerful forces make you feel unable to move with the freedom you’d like. Although someone or something may prevent you from doing what you want when you’d like to do it, the real prevention comes from within you. You can gain awareness of deep parts of your unconscious that inhibit your freedom of movement and even success. This is not a quick fix exploration, but the retrograde period can awaken an awareness that allows a new orientation. This can be a time for therapeutic work, analysis of the past and even dream interpretation. It’s helpful to decipher what holds you back. Many times we think we’ve done the work and all is clear, but life presents us with continual opportunities for self-individuation when we pay attention. Writing or a journal can illuminate shadow enemies that block your brilliance. Write without censor and you can unlock the force that holds you back.

PISCES If you’ve been burning a hole in your shopping accounts, the retrograde slows the hemorrhage. In spite of the limitations of social gatherings, you can activate connections and find ways to meet; your choice. It’s also possible that it’s time to find a new fishbowl. Absence can crystallize whether our network of friends truly reflect the values you hold dear. Look into your heart to determine which friends are a fit and which ones have drifted away. You may seek a new network that shares ideals you’d like to emphasize after this time of reflection. Your ability to lighten another’s load is something you may want to strengthen now. Reach out to lift another up. Tighten your belt, limit spending but invest in overtures of love, connection and song. Once you start to make a difference through volunteering and/or reciprocal human connection, you are back in flow.

For the general forecast of Aries Mars Retrograde…

Aries Mars Retrograde 2020 and How It Affects My Sign is a post from: Insight Oasis

The Atlantic published an article at the Pisces Full Moon; The Atlantic reported Donald Trump had said  “Americans Who Died in War Are ‘Losers’ and ‘Suckers’” The president has repeatedly disparaged the intelligence of service members, and asked that wounded veterans be kept out of military parades, multiple sources tell The Atlantic.

As I wrote previously, Mars Retrograde challenges Trump due to his Rising Mars; often he burns off those low energy periods once direct. Since Mars is Retrograde through the US election season, this latest controversy will most likely be one of many situations that undermine his appeal. Whether that affects his run remains to be seen. I will write more about the election in the next month.

Just a few hours before The Atlantic article, Dwayne Johnson The Rock posted on his Instagram. He and his family are recovering from a heavy bout of COVID-19. The Rock is an ideal of Mars energy, so for him to advocate mask protocol might carry weight for some men who’ve not wanted to be labeled “sissies”.

 

View this post on Instagram

 

Stay disciplined. Boost your immune system. Commit to wellness. Wear your mask. Protect your family. Be strict about having people over your house or gatherings. Stay positive. And care for your fellow human beings. Stay healthy, my friends. DJ 🖤 #controlthecontrollables

A post shared by therock (@therock) on Sep 2, 2020 at 3:26pm PDT

More Mars Retrograde examples are sure to come!

Mars Retrograde 2020 Update is a post from: Insight Oasis

Mars Retrograde 2020…. Mars in Aries!

When planets go retrograde, we have the opportunity to deepen into the expression of their symbolism. This is a psychological and emotional journey, which not everyone welcomes. It depends on other factors at play and our personal situations. At times we can react with projection, blame and resistance because conscious growth is not easy. 

The slower moving planets are retrograde for long periods so their stations (turning points from retrograde to direct and vice versa) call the most attention. 

Challenging effects of the personal planets (those with faster orbits) Mercury, Venus and Mars, are more obvious when retrograde — because we see results in our responses and personal relationships. The degree of which this occurs has to do with your sensitivity and if the planet makes direct connections to your natal horoscope.

The planet Mars goes retrograde about every 26 months; in 2020 Mars will be in the sign of Aries for six months. That is a boatload of time for the planet that symbolizes desire, action, libido and aggression to be in one of its simpatico signs Aries: cardinal fire.

In its essence, Mars in Aries is upfront, dynamic, bold, spontaneous and decisive. It does not hesitate or over-think an impulse. It doesn’t get hung up by a misfire; it moves on. By the time an apology may be expected, its already on to the next enticement. Mars in Aries likes to start something, but follow-through — not so much.

A natal placement of Mars in Aries indicates you like to be inspired by the task or captured by the moment. This is great for someone who goes in to set up a business and then leaves the keys for someone else. 

Because of the retrograde, Mars in Aries colors the second half of 2020 with fiery strokes. When Mars in Aries is direct, we feel a push to get out and go — at odds with the pandemic. Those who practice safe protocol feel a need to move, but do so with a warrior’s precision: shield, tools, ready! Those who ignore or disbelieve the concerns of COVID, move with increased singularity of purpose. The “in your face” meltdowns that go viral are the “me, my way or the highway” expressions of an untethered Mars.

When one is born with a prominent or challenged Mars placement, the native needs to learn from an early age how to control that engine… otherwise it invites conflict, implosion and even danger. In its ideal, Mars reflects how we assert ourselves, express desire, what stokes our passion and drive. Anger is a vehicle of Mars and our understanding of what triggers us and how to channel that anger makes or breaks effective dialogue and response.  

An example of dominant Mars in a horoscope is Donald Trump with Mars in Leo on his Ascendant. Leo Rising people like to be noticed; they call attention to themselves with no effort. This coupled with Mars gives Trump an impatience and assertiveness.

Since Mars makes a picture with his Gemini Sun and Sagittarius Moon, Trump is impulsive and needs to talk. Everything we see about this man is reflected in his chart. The person is always reflected in the chart, but it’s not always visible to all.

In mid-August, the op-ed columnist Maureen Dowd wrote: “Trump represents the last primal shriek of retrograde white men afraid to lose their power. He’s a dinosaur who evokes a world of beauty pageants, ‘suburban housewives’…”  Dowd wrote retrograde in reference to white men afraid to lose their power while Mars moved through the shadow of the upcoming Mars Retrograde.

Whether or not Dowd is aware of astrology, she has called out a very real symbolic battle that affects more than the USA. Fortunately, not all white men are retrograde, but those that are would do well to consider their dinosaur status.

When Mars is retrograde, we look to where it travels through the natal horoscope; it’s sign and if it engages with any planets in the sky today and/or an individual’s natal planets. 

We assess what has happened in the past when Mars is retrograde and marry that with where it travels today. This paints a picture of how delayed, frustrated, focused or effective this period will be in general but also for a person, country or business.

Looking back at Donald Trump’s presidency and the last two Mars Retrogrades: from late June 2018 through late August 2018, themes involved the Kavanaugh hearings, his questionable meeting with Putin in Helsinki, Stormy Daniels and the embezzled NY charities. Prior to that, mid April 2016 through late June 2016, his polling numbers were low in the race and documentation shows that his campaign had regular discussions with Russia.

Let’s look at what gives this particular Mars Retrograde so much force. 

Mars goes Retrograde on September 9, 2020 at 28° Aries and appears to travel backward until November 14 at 15° Aries. Yes, Mars will be retrograde during the USA election (as will Mercury), so US citizens need to vote early and prepare for delays — especially when the vote is by mail.

I will write about this more, but please note that Mercury stations direct on November 3, so we can expect controversial results. To gain perspective on this, the 2000 election also had the Mercury station.

I will stay away from the election for now and focus on you, although keep in mind, one of the lessons of the pandemic is that we are all intricately connected to the whole.

Since Mars is in Aries, it already has and will square with the 3 planets in Capricorn: at present Jupiter, Saturn and Pluto. These are challenging configurations and indicate action/reaction depending on what they trigger. Because the Saturn/Pluto conjunction occurred in early January and Saturn moved on from that point, other planets revisit that energy through geometric configurations.

Rhea and Saturn

In mythology, Saturn was the god of time, so he symbolizes limits, responsibility, structure and fear. Time is running out! Fear of mortality plagues many humans. One of the most famous tales about Saturn was how he devoured his children when they were born, so afraid was he by being usurped by one. Yet a vice-grip on power and authority makes one brittle, guarded and unable to enjoy life. It becomes a prison of one’s own making.

When Saturn comes in conflict with Pluto, the god of Death and Irrevocable Transformation, time runs out. Those who sense this and resist will hold on in spite of signs of the inevitable shift. The belief that power and authority is held by sheer force of will is an illusion. To swallow the potential of fresh ideas and deny growth denies Life; that is a sobering lesson of Saturn.

Saturn’s mate Rhea gave him a rock wrapped in swaddling after she birthed Jupiter. A creature of habit, Saturn devoured it.

She hid her newborn and when grown, Jupiter tricked his father to disgorge his full-grown siblings. United at last, the siblings vanquished Saturn. This myth suggests that when we move past the limitations of fear, we meet so many aspects of our psyche — which can be a lot to digest! Yet this is the only way to become a fully dimensional being. Jupiter symbolizes knowledge, justice and wisdom.

Jupiter became the King of the gods and his brother Pluto, god of the Underworld.

Saturn’s gluttonous response to preserving his power identity is a warning tale about how Fear implodes… and a reminder that no one rules forever. At present, these three planets, Jupiter, Saturn and Pluto travel in the sign of Capricorn. Although an earth sign, Capricorn is cardinal which means it starts and leads. It is significant that Jupiter and Saturn have aligned with Pluto before they move into Aquarius in late December. More on this here.

For today, our focus is on Mars. As with most myths, there are different versions of the origins of the god of war and desire.

His mother Juno sought to have a child without insemination after her husband Jupiter “birthed” Athena, who sprang from his head in full armor. Anger and competition are qualities linked to Mars. Juno used a magical flower which did the trick, with Mars the fruit. A goddess of childbirth, Juno was not interested in child-rearing, so Mars grew up raw, wild and self-sufficient.

The Greeks called him Ares; their version was coarse, a war-monger and disagreeable. However, the patriarchal Romans venerated the male ideal of Mars as rugged and handsome with superhero strength, agility and courage. 

When we consider the archetypal qualities of our inner Mars, it’s desirable to hone the blade of the sword. A warrior’s courage, passion and direction point to the positive side of this spectrum. Revenge, anger, cruelty, bullying and violence are the negative side. Each of us has specific ways that we express desire, go after what we want, react in anger and get in motion.

When Mars is direct, we move without thought towards goals and routines. When Mars is retrograde, we have an opportunity to evaluate strategy (or the lack of), go over past actions when appropriate (even in some cases, get a “do-over”) and slow down. Sometimes it feels as though the blocks in our path, delays and detours are done to us. Yet however the retrograde presents itself, we get better results when we work with the situation rather than against it.

On one hand, there’s certainly an appeal if Mars Retrograde meant that war would go away, but unfortunately, that doesn’t historically happen. Mars Retrograde does offer a time to reevaluate strategy, so hopefully our leaders take note. In astrology, Mars symbolizes action, passion and desire. When retrograde, people are less likely to feel a motivation to get involved (unless they are already). Since we’re in the period leading up to Mars retrograde which begins September 9, the lethargy may be setting in.

How do we take advantage of the Mars retrograde? We work on projects already in motion. This is an excellent time to revitalize the passion in both business, exercise routines and romantic relationships. Sometimes no matter how much we love what we do, something gets stale. It may be time to reengage someone or something that you’ve put on the shelf. If things seem to slow down, then you have the opportunity to “get under the hood” and see what is needed for maximum performance.

The one thing that is essential to keep in mind with the Mars retrograde is that it is best to avoid being the initiator in a situation. That’s why it works best when we stay with what’s already in process, or go back to an overture already made. If you’re in sales, you can show product but let the potential buyer initiate discussion; your job is to ask questions that invite disclosure.

If you drive a lot, baby your car and don’t delay maintenance. Familiar destinations glean more fruit than new horizons. It’s not recommended to buy a car, although there are exceptions if you must.

If you’ve been procrastinating on a creative project, this can be an ideal time to battle through the inner demons that have kept you stalled.

This may not be comfortable with Mars in Aries, because in general, we want to burn through whatever course we are on. As I write this, we have already passed some points of extreme discomfort. 

We can expect frustration and rebellion as Mars squares Saturn on September 29 and Saturn goes Direct (25 Capricorn°). The US Census has an accelerated deadline scheduled to end the month of September, so this may be part of the friction and grievance against authority.

Mars is closest to the Earth when the Sun appears opposite; expect volatility on and around October 13. 

When Jupiter conjuncts Pluto approaching November 12, anticipate a resurgence of pandemic pandemonia and racial unrest. How extreme this is has everything to do with if the fires are tempered beforehand. The drive for conquest is strong with Mars in Aries. When Mars is retrograde, it’s essential to remember that the aggressor or instigator does not win. If you feel frustrated, angry or have a blind desire to intrude, pursue or drive, it’s better to burn off the energy through exercise, martial arts or a self-improvement project.

The last time Mars went Retrograde in Aries (without going into Pisces before it went direct) was September 1941 through November 10, 1941. The Nazis began to label Jews with yellow stars and began their mass-murders at that time. They plowed into Russia during the increasing cold as the Japanese made plans to attack Pearl Harbor. Mars in Aries can be brutal, selfish and raw. This is an extreme reminder that those who attack and pursue during Mars Retrograde become the losers. 

Unless you are born with Mars Retrograde, set goals and start projects before September 9. Once Mars Retrograde is activated, accept setbacks with grace. View it as an opportunity to rework concepts or to shelve them for awhile.

Avoid starting ANYTHING of importance while Mars Retrograde is happening. Whoever initiates is not the one who succeeds. If you start something, the odds are someone else profits from your action.

This is a powerful time to contemplate how you get angry or take action. You may go over situations in the past to solve a more effective way in the future. If someone instigates something at this time, do not lash out. Decide the best way to respond and do so. Do not let the anger or grievance fester, or when Mars goes Direct, you most likely erupt. 

Mars Retrograde is a valuable time to encourage appropriate manifestations of anger, assertion and desire. It can be a highly beneficial time to work these engines in a more productive way.

Forgo ambivalence or any tendency to shortchange your desire. You can truly use this time to forge a blade of decisive intention that has the right combination of hardness, strength, flexibility and balance. Those are the four components of a great sword. Swords symbolize justice — the blade that cuts through deception, prejudice, greed and confusion.

We cannot maintain structures that have lost their integrity. Many existing structures are not appropriate for this fledgling millennium. Because of its squares to the Capricorn planets, the transit of Mars symbolizes challenges to the status quo.

Think about the California forests that we struggle to maintain in ignorance of the sustainable model that indigenous people designed long before the European conquest. As a small part of land has gone back to stewardship by the Esselen Tribe in CA, we see an opportunity to learn and create new structures in tandem with ancient wisdom.

We can design systems that accommodate all people and creatures. We can create institutions that serve and support people rather than control and limit them. Instead of lashing out against perceived limitations, this Mars retrograde gives an opportunity to strategically consider how to move forward anew.

For how Aries Mars Retrograde affects your sign and you…

News articles related to Mars Retrograde

Mars Retrograde 2020…. Mars in Aries! is a post from: Insight Oasis

Let’s start with the Leo New Moon 2020. New Moons offer a fresh start, clean slate, new outlook – especially when we are willing to approach it this way. The moon goes through its phases over a span of 28-29 days and then presents a reset when it cycles once again.

Before the moon is new, we are in the Dark of Moon.

Hecate is an ancient powerful goddess and archetype — but when patriarchal conquests triumphed, they reshaped the gods/goddesses to better suit their message. Hecate became the old crone, capricious, ugly and vengeful. Their intent was to dilute her power and the power of women and the feminine.

To go back to the root, we discover that Hecate represents is the infinite realm that is the portal of transformation. She stands legs-wide and arms akimbo to the sky; the gateway between Heaven and Earth. Hecate stretches beyond linear time, the spiritual midwife of birth and death and everything in between. At this juncture of the waning moon soon to segue into waxing, she invites potential while closing doorways.

What passage are you ready to move into and from? Something must go to embrace the new. When we do this with conscious awareness, a lot can happen. Finish up, purge and/or reflect. Get quality sleep as old cells slough away and new bloom. You may be surprised at what presents itself; messages, dreams, upsets and/or inspiration erupt. Keep your balance and creative curiosity.

It can be helpful to write down 1-3 things you’d like to accomplish this lunar cycle. You can make a longer list of wishes and intentions, but to hone the power of the New Moon intention, it’s best to focus on priorities. Don’t put these into action until AFTER the New Moon is exact for maximum efficiency. Choose one thing you need to do and get out of the way. Once you accomplish this, it boosts your confidence.

It’s also nice to write down something that may be a work in progress or just the germ of an idea. You give attention to it like a new planted seed. Over the lunar cycle, you may work on it or let it sit in the rich soil of your imagination… it depends how big an intention it is. Your New Moon intentions can be on anything, although they get extra juice when they are related to the energy of the sign.

In the sign of Leo, the emphasis is on creativity. This is a big topic. Creativity jazzes artists of all disciplines. For many people, it can awaken the desire to remodel a room, work in a garden or play with recipes. Play ignites essential creativity so if play has limited time in your life, how to initiate play may be part of this.

Children is another theme. For some parents this can be a new phase in what’s happening with their children. It could be about considering parenthood. Or perhaps you need to reorient yourself with your childhood story. There may be a beloved story from your past that takes on new meaning today.

Romance and risks are also part of Leo’s realm. I’m not one to endorse gambling, and yet that’s exactly what we do when we stick our neck out to love. Artists take risks when they perform or show their work. A parent takes a risk to have a child; there are no guarantees. This is why the Heart and Courage are attributed to Leo, because it takes courage to love.

So what do you love enough to take a risk for at this New Moon? Or perhaps the risk is to invite love? Just remember to keep playfulness engaged. And to wear your mask and social distance when appropriate.

The Leo New Moon is exact at 10:42 PM ET on August 18, 2020. This is a well-aspected new moon, which means that endeavors and commitments that take root have excellent outcomes. Take this opportunity for creative refreshment and take initiative over the next couple of days

There is a strong action momentum with this New Moon for a message to be delivered. Since the US Democratic Convention takes place over the New Moon energy, it supports the broadcast and impact of their message.

With this time set for the USA, the New Moon falls in the 5th house. The 5th house for a country symbolizes entertainment, gambling, children and speculative finances through the Stock Market). I’m not a financial wizard, but it’s important to remember that the US Federal Government injected $1.5 Trillion to lifeline the crashing markets in March 2020.

As to what the New Moon means to the USA, look to President Trump’s horoscope. With the Leo New Moon conjunct his natal Mars and Ascendant, he may feel a renewed rush of enthusiasm to express himself. With Mars Rising in Leo, his persona projects: “look at what I’m doing!”  This is an opportunity for him to evaluate and plan what he’d like to put out there because it will have an impact.

During this Dark of Moon period, he can strategically determine what he needs to put to rest in order to actualize his message. Mars does go retrograde before the next lunar cycle, so he would do well to temper his impulses and use this time for self-reflection. Yet this is unlikely due to his personality.

I use his chart as an example off how one could work with the lunar cycle but also, in the case of the leader of a country — his intentions affect the country.

Use this Leo New Moon to ignite your creative spark with full knowledge that where you put the fire of desire can expand a message.

For the complete forecast of this week….

Leo New Moon 2020 is a post from: Insight Oasis

Pay special attention to what happens over this weekend insofar as how the country expresses itself (the leader of the country is that mouthpiece). This reveals a truth that may be hard to digest. Yet anyone who has ever transformed their life after an addiction, toxic relationship or limiting belief knows that they first had to become conscious of it, embrace it as truth — before they could choose to discard their identification with it.

Any ultimatums, declarations or decisions at an eclipse have an unpredictable outcome. A lunar eclipse is a time for endings.

Depending where you are in the US, you might watch the eclipse to make up for a lack of fireworks. It won’t be a dramatic eclipse, but it’s always nice to gaze at the moon if weather permits. The exact alignment is 12:44 AM ET on July 5.

Of course, many people have and will be streaming “Hamilton” (the Capricorn Moon falls in Lin-Manuel Miranda’s 10th house of career near his midheaven). There will be those who go to firework displays in spite of warnings for safe protocol. One thing about eclipses, what they ignite tends to manifest over the next month or so. The last time we had these same degrees of summer eclipses was 2001. We can expect volatility to continue into Autumn 2020, especially as Mars goes retrograde.

If you’ve seen my video on the summer 2020 eclipses, you already know they mirror the volatility we experience. I will create another for autumn, but if you’ve not yet seen this one, here it is —

I refer to the 1619 project which provides perspective that has not been offered to many US students in their history class.

It is not an accident that the 13th Amendment, so pivotal to where our country is today was worded with care: “Neither slavery nor involuntary servitude, except as a punishment for crime whereof the party shall have been duly convicted, shall exist within the United States, or any place subject to their jurisdiction.”

Consider the inordinate number of black and brown people incarcerated in the United States for crimes that white people don’t suffer…. possession of marijuana, petty theft, DWI and more. 100% of able-bodied prisoners are a work force in the US; they make less than $1/day. The USA, land of the free has more people in prison per 100,000 than any other country in the world.

The United States needs to roll its sleeves up, explore its history, meet its present and embrace its future. The only way we do is through a revolution over the next couple of years. 2020 is the breakdown year — the statues that have toppled are symbols of the structures in finance, education, government that we walk by every day without observation of their punitive impact on the growth of our society.

A graceful and peaceful revolution is only possible when all people feel included. This seems impossible, but the eclipse indicates that through responsible commitment we can get there. Each of us has a responsibility to act in ways that support it. We have to move past our tribal separation and listen to the other without disgust and rejection. This is a practice.

If you know where Capricorn falls in your horoscope, you can see the area of life triggered by this eclipse. This is where your commitment may increase, in your work or to what you feel responsible. Often we confront a fear or hesitation as we step up. Since the moon is being lit by the Cancer Sun, our roots want to inform this responsibility. We want to integrate what is most important to our sense of home with how we work and achieve.

For the USA, this is a reckoning. In the ideal, a democracy aligns itself with the will of the people. For an individual, how or if you work may have shifted with the pandemic. The bottom line is the USA is poised to create a more sustainable status in how it operates in the world. As it heads towards its Pluto Return, where will it choose to put its wealth and power?

You might be at home in quarantine and thinking — oh I can’t do anything — I care about all this but what can I do? Unless you’ve lost your job, even small donations to groups that empower the voices of youth and the disenfranchised can help. Prayer and meditation, energy healing and support for a cause, either financially or through letters and phone calls are all ways to expand the vibrations of conscious evolution.

Let’s build up non-violent messages. Each of us can work to control that in ourselves. Those behind the comfort of their blinders can experience them burned off with these eclipses.

On July 5th, the asteroid Vesta is right there at 13 degrees Cancer. We often see Vesta, goddess of the hearth, in event charts with fire or explosions. Fireworks will go off, but does that have to lead to an extreme?

The goddess of the hearth wants everyone to be invited. She feeds the hearth and heart of country and home. Vesta’s symbolism is to provide warmth, access to food and clean water. Those who surround her hearth gain basic comforts and community.

That is what she nourishes. When she’s not heard and some are denied her warmth or reject her message, it flares up and gets very hot. An untended hearth is no longer a comfort but a danger.

A virus feeds on fear and denial. Right now the USA grapples with the virus of racism. It’s critical that we emphasize the rights and respect for all people in work, access to water, food, education and financial reward.

Global economy is changing; it’s not going to be based on the same economic paradigms. The United States clings to slave labor through the guise of prison labor. The USA is a nation in denial. If you don’t want to be part of the dysfunctional family that the July 5, 2020 eclipse shines a harsh light upon, then be part of the change.

These viruses will be here as long as we need until we receive the message. It’s not an accident that the endemic toxin of prejudice in the United States has come to blatant awareness at the same time as COVID-19. This coronavirus continues to morph and scientists say we cannot know the long-term consequences it will have on the body for some time. If you had chicken pox as a kid, you may know the pain of shingles as you’ve gotten older. The ramifications of COVID-19 on the body can be far worse, perhaps even for those with a mild or asymptomatic case.

Consider the virus of racism, how it has morphed and the effect and trauma it has had on generations. When I look at Vesta in the eclipse chart set for Washington DC, she burns in the 4th house — the very roots and inception of the USA. It’s time to burn away the denial of the faults of the nation. All must be welcome at the hearth.

It’s not an exaggeration to state that this is about the very survival of humanity and what is it we want to be as human beings — at least for the USA.

Capricorn Full Moon Eclipse, July 2020 is a post from: Insight Oasis

Tools of Transformation is a post from: Insight Oasis

Weekly forecast is available at www.InsightNow.podbean.com 

Tools for Transformation is a post from: Insight Oasis