Capricornucopia!

Welcome to 2008! Wow! A brand-new year just brimming with possibilities! Have you determined your objectives yet for the months ahead? I’ve settled on a few reasonably joyous ones, and am holding the intention that this will be our best year yet!

Now that the Jupiter-inspired extravagance of the holidaze are finally tucked in for the time-being, January usually signifies a period of putting away our party hats, rolling up our sleeves, and getting down to the business of organizing our finances and lives for the coming year. It’s no accident that this is also the time of decidedly industrious Capricorn to be highlighted. While we can choose our approach to the aforementioned duty, finding joy in the process, Capricorn can inspire us to become quite serious, facing the task at hand with a grim, potentially overly-serious determination.

The Sun transits the sign of Capricorn once a year, usually from December 22 to January 19. Being the tenth sign of the zodiac, Capricorn naturally resides in the Tenth House of professions, public status, and how we rise above, or fall below the social or economic station that we were born into. Ruled by Saturn, the stern disciplinarian of the zodiac, it’s easy to see how your Capricorn loved one arrived at her or his sober disposition honestly. As an Earth sign, we tend to rely on most Capricorns to be stable, solid and practical -- however, I have personally known a couple of Capricorns with Sagittarius rising that will at least occasionally become exceptions to that rule! These individuals, while retaining many of the recognizable Capricornian traits, seem also to challenge the boundaries of their sun sign’s typical behaviour. Famous Capricorns who may be seen as fitting this seemingly nonconformist profile include Nick Cage, Marilyn Manson, Janis Joplin, Patti Smith, Al Capone, and Diane Keaton.

This brings me to a significant point: In reading up on the Sun sign of friends, loved ones or your current romantic interest, it’s important to remember that our Sun signs, while a major inspiration for us, are also merely a part of what is potentially a vastly diverse whole. Other factors include the ten known planets, their placement in the twelve houses on the zodiac wheel, the sign that inhabit each house, and the relationships between the planets and houses that work as important energies in signifying our complete selves. For this reason, the horoscope section in your local paper, while interesting and entertaining, may not be entirely accurate to every person sporting each sign.

Capricorn is a Cardinal sign, which denotes a character that is forceful and dynamic, initiating action and providing leadership. When Cappy is in a position of management, it’s like watching a duck in water. One of the many great qualities of Capricorn is their ability to be hardworking, shrewd and practical individuals who exhibit responsible, persevering behaviour within the workplace, as well as without. They make excellent, reliable workers, and exhibit an extraordinary stick-to-it-ness that is beyond compare. They carefully finish projects begun by the more pioneering signs, and quickly become an integral part of any company they work for.

Capricorn is a very ambitious sign, and those who exemplify its qualities will work tirelessly to climb the ladder of success. On their way up that ladder, they can become resourceful, determined managers who set high standards for themselves and others. They respect discipline from their superiors, and in turn expect it from their staff. Their ambitious nature is profound, often leading to a measure of wealth, and can inspire them to endure personal hardship for the sake of their families and careers. Business owners in need of someone who can spearhead a project, while seeing it through to fruition, would do well to hire a Capricorn for the job. As careful planners with tremendous organizing ability, they are thorough and frugal; often achieving great results with just a modicum of effort and expense, and can be quite adept at handling several projects at once.

One of the challenges that Capricorn faces is the tendency to get into a self-imposed rut. They are so steadfast in the direction they choose, that even when this path becomes challenging to their health and/or happiness, they will continue trudging along the same lines regardless of how they feel about it. I’ve actually seen this in action, and it sometimes hurts just to watch. A Capricorn in this state will fret and moan, kick the cat, as it were, and yet continue to stay in an unhappy relationship, job or living situation, rather than make the changes necessary to insure their own peace of mind. The reason is at minimum two-fold; on the one hand, the acquisition of income is vital to our goat-like friends, and many of them will endure great hardships to insure they make it to the top. On the other hand, they tend to settle into the ‘known’ so deeply, that the prospect of change, or facing the unknown, literally frightens them.

In this case, what Capricorn can choose to develop in order to grow beyond this fear-based behaviour is a healthy level of curiosity and adventure. Yes, I know; the mere thought of this is causing some Cappys out there to break out in a cold sweat. Trust me, you will survive, and even thrive, if you allow yourselves to walk off the proverbial cliff or two on occasion. I’m sure that there are many souls around you who love you and will be there to see you through; that is, after they’ve gotten over the shock of actually witnessing you doing something so uncharacteristic. I should think the stunned, gape-mouthed look on their faces would be worth at least half the price of admission for you! There is a Cappy friend of mine who I love dearly, and watching him slave away year after year in a job that he was miserable in was difficult at best. Words can’t describe how elated I felt when he gave up his security and started his own business! As an Aquarian who has walked off several cliffs in my day, I can assure you that sometimes there’s an owie waiting for you at the bottom, and sometimes the change you initiate could be the best thing you could ever do in your life, one that you will thank yourself for over and over.

Another challenge that Capricorn can face is her/his innate discomfort with emotions – theirs and others. This is likely due to Capricorn’s need to always be in control, and emotions tend to be fluid, transient, and sometimes unpredictable. This could make Capricorn’s head spin right off its axis, and cause them to run screaming for the door. I know one Cappy friend who will actually get belligerent if someone is upset about something he feels powerless to fix. With this in mind, the growth-minded Capricorn individual will choose to brave out these emotional episodes with loved ones, looking past their own personal issues and reaching out to the other in support. It’s important for Capricorn to understand that the other person’s pain and suffering is solely the responsibility of that particular person to take care of, and not up to Capricorn to fix. Once that sense of accountability is released, one can then be fully there with the person going through trauma, in support and solidarity, without adding to the stress of the situation with their own issues. Facing an emotional situation is risky for anyone, and especially uncomfortable for Capricorns. However, the rewards of extending outside your own personal comfort zones can be profoundly rewarding in so many ways, and those around you will respond well to the efforts you’re making on their behalf, and to your newfound valor!

So set your jaw, lovely Capricorn, and bravely step off that ledge into your own liberation. Taking risks is a part of our evolutionary growth, and there’s a chance that you just may learn to fly!

Happy New Year, everyone! Make it fabulous, enjoying blessings of good fortune as well as your greatest joy!

Namaste.

This Sagittarian Season of Joy

Is it really December already? Wow, that’s a difficult one to wrap my brain around, even on a cold, blustery day like today! Sometimes the passage of time can be challenging to reconcile within ourselves and this just happens to be one of those times for me. It seems only a few weeks ago that we were walking around in shorts and exclaiming how we were being treated to such a long summer. Wait a minute…come to think of it, that was a few weeks ago!

December’s astrological focus will be on the fun and frolicking sign of Sagittarius, who happens to be throwing a party for most of this month, with a few key planets in esteemed attendance. Sagittarius is the 9^th sign on the zodiac wheel, and therefore resides naturally in the 9^th house of long-distance travel, higher education, philosophy and religion. Sagittarius is occupied by the Sun from November 23 to December 21, which inspires us to be more indulgent and expansive, lighthearted and optimistic during the holiday shopping season. Its symbol is the archer and centaur, who is ever aiming his arrow upward and outward. Positive, masculine, and extroverted, those who have chosen Sagittarius as their Sun sign are people who can be the life of the party, and it’s a good idea to have at least one of them in attendance as you move through this mortal existence.

Throughout my life as an Aquarian, I’ve had the (mostly) delightful pleasure of knowing several persons sporting Sagittarius as their Sun sign, and I have to say, it’s been quite a romp! It’s rarely a dull moment with these lively characters around, who will entertain you as the class clown or funny girl during school, woo you with a uniquely quirky charm in the dating arena, and may inadvertently break your heart if you venture too close, wagon hitch in hand, at too early an age for them to even consider commitment. You see, Sagittarians are the perpetual Peter Pans of the zodiac, flitting around from one adventure to another; restless for ever more exotic experiences to fill their insatiable appetites for discovery.

Many of these spontaneous souls continue this pace long into adulthood, without even a passing concern for where they left their shadow. They’re much too busy slaying (or befriending) dragons, exploring uncharted dimensions, and tasting as many flavours of human experience as they can find to simply settle down and do something as mundane and boring as, like, grow up! I’m serious. Some of them will look at you quizzically, head cocked and hands on hips, like you’d just grown a second head straight out of your third eye if you even suggest such a ridiculous thing. To put it in simple terms, these people virtually invented Never-Never Land.

Even those reserved archers who choose to adopt the more conventional standards of adulthood may do so quite loosely, altering and integrating them a bit with their own personal, pleasingly peculiar style of moving through their days. Ever restless, Sagittarius needs some form of departure from the norm, just to add a little spice to the mix. For example, the staunch businessman may occasionally raise some eyebrows by doing something seemingly out of character, like humming a few bars of “Maxwell’s Silver Hammer” under his breath at the back of a board meeting. Or the outwardly prim and proper librarian who occasionally dons a dress with a neckline just low enough to let the shockingly brazen tattoo she wears on her chest barely peak out and say hi. If you happen to know that rare, conventional Sagittarian, don’t be fooled; underneath the starched shirt and grey flannel is a forest green tunic just itching to be uncovered.

Ruled by Jupiter, the indulgent planetary father, Sagittarians are seemingly allowed to run around doing and saying whatever it is they like, without any form of restraint being imposed upon them. I’ve often grumbled to a close Sagittarian friend of mine, who milks his lack of restrictions for all they’re worth, that Jupiter merely pats him on the head and lets him run amok while the rest of us have to atone for everything we do – even if it’s remotely naughty. He just beams at me, happily enjoying his unhampered, tactless self-expression, and lobs another zinger at me. I then remind him not to get too cocky; for the laws of karma also apply to Sag’s…they just don’t have to worry about it ‘til next lifetime.

In matters of love, it would appear that timing and motivation are both vital ingredients to anyone considering merging households with their freedom-loving Sag. If attempted too soon, heartache could ensue, with the Sagittarian hopelessly sabotaging everything in a blind, panic-inspired race for the door. Don’t take it personally, honey. Your fun-loving archer soul-mate likely loves you dearly, and merely fears a frightening loss of freedom if he commits too soon. The prospect of committing to one person eternally in the mind of a yet to be evolved Sagittarian can make them break out in a cold sweat. You see, one thing they haven’t figured out yet is the innate understanding that absolute freedom includes the ability to love and be loved, without the need to possess. The more evolved archers understand this, and can make for ardent, sincere and straightforward lovers, passionate and faithful spouses, and devoted parents. They are the fortunate Sagittarians who find divine freedom and joy in loving another, who have released themselves from the limiting notion that love has to involve possession, because ultimate love is without possession. They are the ones who have discovered that the adventures are much more fun when there’s another kindred spirit around to share them with.

There are a few key planets in attendance at the party I spoke of earlier in the article, who are currently transiting the playful, ever-questing Sagittarius, and contributing their unique energies to the festivities. Of course, there is the Sun, who during this transit inspires us to reach outward in the world to connect with something larger than ourselves. Our awareness of the idea that there’s more to life than the mundane is expanded, and we become courageous and optimistic enough to focus on that which is beyond ourselves; the “big picture,” if you will. With this influence, we now have the energy to nurture our faith, hope and dreams.

Jupiter will end his thirteen month transit in Sagittarius on the 19^th, so we still have time to open up and really feel the wonderful sense of optimism and growth that he has indulged us with during this expansive time. Jupiter’s transit has been inspiring us to open our collective consciousness in matters of foreign relations and cultures, law, global standards, religion and spiritual values. As individuals, we’ve likely experienced his influence through the desire for expanding one’s knowledge using such vehicles as reading, higher education, long distance travel, and the pursuit of philosophical or religious study. Overall, Jupiter has been encouraging us to learn about our own greater potential through providing elevated experiences of other viewpoints and ideals.

Mercury joins the party on the 2^nd, adding to the intellectually expansive spotlight by inspiring us to broaden our mental faculties and inner wisdom, rather than relying on external knowledge. With Mercury here, we learn to trust our innate ability to be in the present, allowing higher wisdom to flow through us. Our desire, then, is to share our inherent wisdom with the world, and to let go of the belief that we need credentials and degrees to be qualified enough to teach others. We are all teachers everyday, and we are all qualified, and encouraged, to do so.

Pluto has been in Sagittarius for quite some time, and his own unique contribution to the energies can be more thoroughly examined in the May 2007 issue of Conscious Mind Journal. Saturn will shift into retrograde motion in Virgo on the 19^th, and requests that while we’re enjoying the indulgent energies of Sagittarius, we integrate that with common sense, taking care of our physical needs and getting some good quality rest in the interim. Venus arrives fashionably late to the party, helping us to ring in the New Year with style, grace, and overflowing optimism. Flirtatious and friendly, we’ll mingle together nicely with an abundance of interesting people to bounce our ideas off of, and we’ll flow through any crowd, absorbing what we wish before moving on to the next interesting topic.

This is a light-hearted, joyous time of year, made all the more magical by the presence of so many planets in Sagittarius. Be sure to take advantage of these energies, and open yourself to allowing joy and abundance this holiday season.

Namaste.

Entering Scorpio’s Lair

As I sit writing this month’s article, the climate cools, the trees shed their colorful mantle, and my thoughts become introspective and deep. The Sun has moved into Scorpio and winter looms ahead, bringing the opportunity to cozy up to those around us and celebrate the good fortune of being in each other’s company for another year. I have been blessed throughout my life to be in the presence of several Scorpios, both Sun and Rising Sign, and since we have moved under this powerful sign’s influence, I would like to pay homage to them and to the delectable spirit that Scorpio embodies.

Scorpio is co-ruled by Pluto and Mars, and individuals can display powerful Plutonian influence, dominant Martian energy or more often both at varying times. Scorpio is a water sign, and therefore intuitive and emotional by nature. However, unlike Cancer and Pisces, this water sign holds its emotions close; feeling them, but not revealing them fully. The Sun meanders its way through the sign of Scorpio once a year between October 23 and November 22, making it very fitting that Halloween, the time of year when the veil between the world of the living and the world of the dead is thinnest, falls within the scope of Scorpionic influence. Scorpions love to delve deep into the farthest reaches of understanding to uncover the secrets held within.

Those individuals with this Sun sign have Topaz as their personal stone, and resonate well with the colours black and deep red. The evolutionary degrees of Scorpio are represented by three creatures respectively; the snake, the scorpion, and the eagle, with the eagle being the most highly evolved of the three. They are fixed in nature, and therefore very stubborn and persistent. Once a Scorpio has made a decision, it very rarely wavers, and they will strive to fulfill their perceived destiny with a resolute passion that is beyond compare.

Those of us who have had the opportunity to know a Scorpio personally will likely nod their heads knowingly as I describe the uniqueness of those who personify the traits of the eighth sign of the zodiac. There is a deep, quiet intensity to these people, and they can make the meeker of us a bit uneasy with their penetrating gaze and shrewd annotations to our conversations. Scorpios possess great knowledge – while the rest of us are busily revealing our stories, they simply observe, offering little of their own inner world.

I know one particular Scorpio who moves coolly through every party like an arrestingly beautiful, silent, dark mist, feigning boredom until he finds a far off corner to inhabit for hours, quietly studying those around him. He’ll briefly speak, or merely nod, to those who venture up to make idle conversation, until each one eventually wanders away in pursuit of a more active participant in the merry-making. You see, Scorpio does not engage in “chit chat.” When this particular Scorpio deigns to talk, the words must be deep and meaningful. And when a person wants to converse with him, she or he had better have something interesting and intelligent to convey if they want to keep his attention. Otherwise, they may just be treated to a scornful, knowing smirk, which generally reduces the other to about one sixteenth their original size.

This man embodies the more mysterious, somewhat snobbish distain for others that some Scorpios have been known to adopt. It’s a lonely undertaking, but he doesn’t seem to mind. He occupies himself with what he deems to be higher matters; his work, his music, and his intellect. The latter of the group holds more seduction for him than the prior two, and he embraces his ponderings with far more passion than he does his long-frustrated wife. Ah, but to paint some color into our perception of this man, lest I leave you with too negative a taste…if one manages to win his favor, he will become a great help to them whenever there is a need. Anyone who has succeeded in holding his interest will be considered an insider by him, for as long as his interest is held, and could be given the honor of an invitation into his inner sanctum, a.k.a. his den, to partake of the latest installment to the wonderful wall of sound he’s constructed and will be an occasional guest at his table. If the person should have a particular talent that this gentleman finds interesting or useful, all the better for them.

Of course, Scorpios are as varied in personality as any of us, and the traits of their sign will be presented according to each one’s unique style, as well as to the rest of their own personal horoscope. I’ve known some to be effusive, talking my ear off about their latest endeavor, and exhibiting a charm that can be quite disarming. Others I’ve known can be deeply introverted, guarding their inner secrets from all, except for an occasional trusted soul who manages to slip through the iron gates of Scorpionic caution. Yes, it is possible to charm a Scorpio; and if you do, make sure you have the best of intentions. Scorpios have long memories, and if they’ve suffered a slight, real or imagined, woe to the offender who will have to watch his back against the Scorpion’s sting for the duration. And boy can they sting! Definitely not pretty by any stretch of the imagination.

There are still other Scorpios, who at first glance seem normal enough, but on closer inspection the Plutonian/Martian influences begin to emerge. It’s in the eyes. Look closely at a Scorpion’s eyes…I dare you. They can be as fathomless as inky pools, and as piercing as a lightning bolt, all at the same time. Their eyes can display a probing, discerning quality that makes one feel as if they’re pinned to a board, squirming under a microscope. I’ve also seen them suddenly become brazenly sexual in nature, undressing a person with their eyes so completely – as if the threads of the intended’s garments have disintegrated within seconds.

While I’m on the subject, there’s something powerfully sexual about these people; sometimes dangerously so. The impulse can come on swiftly, deliberately, like the vampires in a really good Anne Rice novel; taking the hapless target completely by surprise, and not letting go until they’ve had their fill. Are you intrigued yet? You should be. If these people are anything, they are immensely intriguing. They can be the most intense, profound and overwhelmingly powerful people in the zodiac. They can be the most unnerving, and the most seductive people you’ll know. One thing’s for sure; when one encounters a Scorpio, it can be one of the most memorable experiences of one’s life.

When the Sun transits Scorpio, the mood becomes intense. This intensity infiltrates our interaction with everything, from work to romantic play. Unlike the intensity that Leo or Aries can generate, Scorpio is a smoldering, cunning sort of intense. We are all affected in one way or another, and can expect to experience periods of insightful, deep focus and a desire to probe into matters that run beneath the surface of things. We become inspired to delve into matters that are significant and meaningful to us, and we are able to get to the heart of things more easily at this time. The underlying motivations of those around us are revealed, and masks become transparent to us. Our propensity for excitement is powerful, and we’ll likely approach physical love with an unusual fervor, force and possessiveness during this passage of the Sun. Be mindful of the possibility of jealousy and vengeful feelings during this time, as the intensity of our emotions inspire us to act out these extremes a bit more than usual. Good activities during this period include solving riddles and mysteries, delving into scientific work, and thoroughly exploring topics of interest.

Mercury enters Scorpio on November 11, making our thoughts more probing and intense than usual. We will be inspired to seek hidden truths and deeply held understandings. We will want to probe deeply during our communications, observe our daily experiences more closely and focus our thoughts on matters of Scorpio’s influence. Intellectual needs will become manifest through our probing for deeply buried motivations behind the actions and beliefs of others. Superficial niceties will take a back seat to more evocative communications, and our thought processes will tend to be narrower in focus and sometimes even obsessive in nature.

With that said, you may wish to utilize this time to really get to the heart of matters of significance in your life, and above all else, enjoy the ride!

Namaste.

Finding Balance with Libra

This month, I’d like to focus your attention on the sign of Libra. The Sun occupies Libra every year from September 23 to October 22. As an air sign, Libra is more cerebral than emotional; it's interesting to note that Libra is the only sign of the zodiac that has an inanimate object as its symbol, and many astrologers feel that this is symbolic of Libra's tendency to disassociate itself from its emotions.

I have had the distinct pleasure, and occasional sorrow, of knowing several Libras in the course of my life. I can honestly say that I greatly value the contribution that each one has made in my evolutionary path.

Libra is all about partnership. This means romantic, business, and social affiliation. It is difficult for Libra to feel truly complete without a partner, and I’ve personally known some hapless Libras that have endured a few costly marriages before finally hitting the jackpot...as well as some who haven't quite made it there yet. The compulsion that drives Libra to seek out partnership has its share of pitfalls, as Libra is known to settle into an unhappy relationship or affiliation in an effort to maintain that balance of partnership that they so desperately desire, for better or for worse. Libra will do well in seeking to find the balance within, and when this is accomplished, only then go out into the world to find that perfect partner to balance their outer selves.

Libras are generally gifted in the area of diplomacy, and therefore make excellent mediators, as long as they are not personally involved in the issue at hand. In such circumstances, they happily play devil's advocate, presenting the opposing view as being equally valid, while suggesting effective methods of resolving the situation. Disliking crudeness, they strive to keep emotions at an even keel, practicing refinement and dignity in all their associations, and fully expect the same from others.

Being ruled by the lovely and socially artful Venus, Libra appreciates beauty, attempting to immerse themselves in pleasant surroundings while accompanied by equally attractive people. They possess a profound love of art in all its forms, and are often found at leisure time blissfully absorbed in the offerings of art galleries, concerts, scenic vistas, and other places of beauty. Individual tastes vary, of course. One particular Libra that I happen to know well, while seemingly unappreciative of traditional forms of art and literature, is a master at creating beautiful gardens that are not only show pieces, but also harmonious places of refuge and serenity.

Many people believe that since the symbol for Libra is an image of balancing scales, they are consequently the most stable and rational sign in the zodiac. This isn’t quite accurate, however. The truth is that Libra requires balance, and so actively seeks it out in an effort to feel complete, or to become self-actualized. Libra is associated with the Greek goddess of Justice, Themis, which can help explain Libra's reluctance to make snap decisions, choosing instead to weigh the options and influences carefully before proceeding. Because fairness is imperative to those with Sun in Libra, it can be quite frustrating for others to deal with them while faced with making a final verdict, often no matter how simple it may be. While looking up the word indecision in the dictionary, one could almost find the concerned visage of one's closest Libra loved one peering imploringly back at them. Aside from shying away from conflict, being decisive is likely the most vexing challenge Libra must face, and the most difficult for their loved ones to tolerate.

Libra detests unpleasant confrontation, to the point where they can become visibly disturbed, or even physically ill in the aftermath of a particularly negative encounter. For this reason, Libra can be known to stick their heads in the sand when faced with anything unpleasant, which is akin to Scorpio's method of "denning it" when there's something they wish to avoid. This can be another source of frustration for those close to them who desire a resolution to the problem, the result being endless conflict. The key here is for Libra to learn to manage their sensitivities while bravely treading the narrow precipice of challenging relations. If they learn the value and growth benefits of peace after conflict, or of employing their innate abilities at diplomacy in conjunction with a strong desire to reach happy resolution within their relationships, they find that everyone benefits. It may help if Libra can learn that conflicts and difficulties do not define them personally, and that the ability to face them head-on is an art that can be accomplished easily once they put their minds to the task.

Its important to remember that it isn't necessary to have Sun into Libra to possess some of its tendencies. Libra, as well as every other sign in the zodiac, has a modicum of influence in every astrological chart. Depending on which house it resides in your personal chart, and whichever planets, if any, have chosen to keep it company is where its level of influence for you can be determined. For instance, if you have Libra in the Seventh House of partnership, the natural placement for Libra, you require your associates to be fair, balanced and harmonious. Your life partner must be quite adept at the social graces, display a witty intellect, and be pleasing to the eye. Affection or passionate exchange with your partner may not be as important to you as the ability to create a relationship together that hums steadily along with very few, if any, bumps in the road.

As the Sun moves through Libra this month, you may find yourself desiring of more harmonious, aesthetically pleasing surroundings and relationships, and may become inspired to seek out the company of others who share your personal ideals and temperament. Working in partnership may be highlighted, and projects initiated with this in mind should flow very well toward fruition. Be sure to put a little fun into the mix, so you remember that joyous living is the name of the game.

Namaste.

What’s Your Motivation?

There are many reasons for wanting to know what motivates us. Perhaps we’re trying to find our career path in life, and may be continually frustrated by our efforts thus far. Or maybe we’re wondering why we interact with others the way we do, and why all of our romantic relationships seem to start out unique, but end up walking the same old path. We may want to learn more about our family dynamics, and how we, as individuals, contribute our own unique spin to the events that take place within them.

Since our primary objective for being alive is to evolve beyond ourselves by striving to reach our full potential, it’s important to discover the things about ourselves that keep us running on that hamster wheel, and to gain insight into what we can do to finally stop spinning, step off the wheel, and start moving forward on solid ground.

Astrology can serve a very beneficial role in our quest for greater understanding into our own personal motivations, and the motivations of others who are in close relationship with us.

Astrological chart analysis is a complicated process with many nuances to look for that can change the flavor and direction of any horoscope. While there are many motivating factors in an astrological chart, this article will highlight a few simple, but key elements in determining the overall motivation of a person’s birth chart. A qualified astrologer can provide you with insight into the specific patterns your personal chart indicates that propel you toward your experiences, any possible pitfalls in the dynamics of these patterns, and suggest possible strategies to re-pattern your tendencies in these directions.

When a client who is searching for direction in life presents his or herself to me, I begin by looking at key patterns in the planetary placement of their chart, including the locations of their major personal planets, and their chart ruler. I look for Mars as an important indicator of where they focus the most energy. If Mars is located in their Second House, for example, most of their energy is likely to be directed toward financial endeavors, and according to whatever sign Mars is in, the manner in which they direct this energy, and anything that they may place personal value upon. I then look for any relationships that Mars may have with the other planets in their chart in an effort to determine how Mars’s energy can find its most effective expression.

Since your Fourth House is the pivot point on which you build your life upon, and is likely where you feel most at home, I focus upon which sign is on the cusp, and any planets that may reside within. For instance, if Libra is on the Fourth House cusp, I know that this individual is seeking personal expression through partnership and cooperation, and is also striving to create balance within the realm of home, family, and anything he or she places as their foundation. If Pisces is on the cusp, I know that spiritual endeavors are a focus, intuition is highlighted, and that the individual feels most at home in activities related to charitable, artistic, and divinely inspired pursuits. Any challenges associated with Fourth House issues can be helped by other influences in the overall chart, and if not, I can serve my client further by suggesting possible strategies they can employ to help assuage any problems that may arise.

An example of this can be the person with Pisces in Fourth in the above example. While the individual is interesting, mystical and has a direct and easy connection with Universal energies and knowledge, he or she may lack the proper grounding in order to function effectively in the realm of mundane existence, especially if Mars resides here. Without other powerful grounding influences in the chart, such as a few well-placed planets in Earth signs, this person will appear to float through life, going with the tide and never quite anchoring themselves. This person likely experiences confusion and detachment when it comes to personal relationships, and is possibly feeling frustrated in her or his efforts to exist in the everyday world. He or she may choose to retreat, existing for the most part in the spiritual realm, because that is where they feel most secure. I may therefore counsel this person to utilize the strengths in their overall horoscope, and to find practical applications for their unique gifts. It’s likely that this individual has the ability to present wonderful ideas and information to humanity, and finding practical, down-to-earth expression for these ideals will serve to benefit us all.

Please note that the information within this article is by no means comprehensive, as there are many nuances in each individual chart that serve to compose the entire symphony of our lives. An astrologer can help by analyzing these influences, helping us to discover where our energies are most effectively expressed, and inspiring us to listen to the inherent melodies that exist within. With deeper understanding of our individual gifts and motivations, we can apply them most effectively in our lives, thereby best serving ourselves and humanity as a whole.

Namaste.

Loving Your Solar Opposite

Romantic love can be an amazing, wonderful, somewhat complex, dizzyingly delicious, profoundly transformative experience that is filled with a myriad of qualities that offer spice and opportunities to jazz up our lives. It can be whatever we desire, actually, depending upon the intentions that both individuals bring into creating a relationship together. Remembering that each experience is tempered with choice, we can choose to proceed with a sense of happy anticipation of what is to come.

In astrology, there are many factors that indicate romantic compatibility between two people, and a good astrologer can help you to determine these factors. While traditional astrology contains some hard and fast rules when determining the compatibility of two people, I'm of the Aquarian school of thought where most rules go out the window, and intentions set the tone! That is to say, it's good to have an idea of the basics of astrological compatibility, and it's also good to have an attitude of allowing things to flow with whatever feels good. So many times I've encountered someone who had fallen in love with another, only to have their elation deflated because some well-meaning friend mentioned that their Sun signs weren't compatible, or it was pointed out that there would be problems down the line due to such-and-such aspect in their chart. Setting limits upon experiences such as these can do a grave injustice to the potential gifts this type of relationship can offer a couple. It helps to understand that while it's good to have deeper insight into the dynamics of a relationship, care should be taken not to pinch off the opportunity for growth through this experience just because there may be a few bumps in the road up ahead.

Take Solar opposites for example. There are some who believe that two people coming together with opposing Sun signs are in for a tumultuous ride that consists of severe emotions and calamitous battles of will. While there may be potential for such extremes, there is also greater opportunity for a profound and uplifting love that creates balance and harmony between the couple as a whole, and within each individually. The difference comes down to the basics; choice and intention. Those who desire it can create a relationship with each other where individual differences are embraced, and the opportunity to learn and grow is nurtured and fully utilized. Let's take a look at one factor in the Leo/Aquarius connection, for instance. Leo tends to be fully in tune with self, while Aquarius is focused outward toward humanity. Can you see the opportunity for each individual in this example?

If Leo chooses to become inspired by Aquarius's example, he can learn to expand his inner focus outward a little more, sharing the abundant love he feels within with humanity as a whole. In doing so, he can learn to embrace all the gifts that such expansion brings, which includes unlimited vitality achieved by profound knowledge of Universal connection. This knowledge can become much more than mere intellectual knowing, but a deep, inner feeling of connectedness with All That Is. Conversely, if Aquarius chooses to become inspired by Leo's example, she can learn to channel some of her expansive, outwardly-directed humanitarian instincts inward, savoring the energies created, and utilizing them to gain deeper knowledge and compassion of self. She can also achieve profound inner healing, at the soul level, by learning that love must begin by loving oneself. What amazing gifts these two have to teach each other, and then to share with the world!

There is much to be gained by exploring unfamiliar territory, and embracing the experiences that being with your Solar opposite can bring. Opposing Sun signs have an elemental advantage that can also be utilized, as complementary element combinations are Water/Earth, and Fire/Air. Each sign of the zodiac is associated with one of four elemental qualities; Earth, Air, Fire and Water, and by looking at the charts below, you can see how Solar opposites can compliment each other on this level:

Solar Opposites:
Aries & Libra (Fire/Air)
Taurus & Scorpio (Earth/Water)
Gemini & Sagittarius (Air/Fire)
Cancer & Capricorn (Water/Earth)
Leo & Aquarius (Fire/Air)
Virgo & Pisces (Earth/Water)

Element Compatibility:
Fire -- desires freedom.
Earth -- needs security.
Air -- like fire, but with a different emphasis, desires freedom.
Water -- like earth, but with a different emphasis, needs security.

As I've mentioned in some of my previous articles, there are a myriad of factors other than Sun sign resonance that help to determine the romantic compatibility between two people, although looking at Sun sign potential can be a fun place to start! Bearing in mind that even the most challenging chart comparison in the world can yield happy results if the couple involved are willing to work with each other toward a common goal, it's a good idea to have a chart comparison and/or composite chart done by a professional, positive-minded astrologer when you meet that special someone who you think may have some long-term potential. An astrologer can indicate the strengths and opportunities for growth in your union, assisting you in choosing the emphasis of your alliance with each other. In this way, you both can start out on solid ground with a good idea of how to create the most harmonious, open-hearted relationship possible.

Here's to happy loving, everyone!

Relationship Astrology: Is this Experience Right for Me?

Let's face it, we'd all love to get through life as unscathed as possible, right? While intellectually and spiritually we know that we're here to learn and to evolve, our emotional natures may inspire us to duck and cover from the very situations that provide us with the most growth opportunity: Our relationships. These can range from familial, romantic, friendly, and work-related associations and every one of them are important to us for very specific reasons.

Let's observe a few scenarios:

You've just met and connected with this really great guy - or gal - and your body, mind and heart are singing a chorus of happy anticipation for what is yet to come. You can't recall ever experiencing such a strong initial attraction before, and you feel as if something within you has awakened from a long, lonely slumber. At this point, the possibilities are endless, and you find yourself adrift amid happy mental images of true connection that you hope will become an enduring reality.

What is it that has inspired this initial attraction? You know, the one that gets your whole being blissfully buzzing? How long will it last? What are the benefits of intimacy with this person? Is there a soul-connection? A karmic link? Would co-mingling with this individual provide the perfect chemistry for what your life resonates right now?

How about this one:

You love almost everything about your job, trained hard to reach your career goals, apply yourself diligently to your duties, and yet there's a big, fat, hairy fly in the ointment: your boss. Nothing you do seems to satisfy this person, and try as you might, you just can't seem to rise above the deep emotion her/his disapproval evokes within you. You are continually subjected to petty reprimands, overloaded with more than your fair share of projects, and given impossible deadlines. What is the nature of the challenge here? Have you contracted with this person prior to your birth to provide you at this time with an opportunity for growth? Will you ever be able to measure up to his/her standards?

Let's try another one:

All your life, your sister has tormented you. From the moment your shining face appeared within the loving embrace of your mother's arms, your elder sibling's mean-spirited countenance sneared back at you, attempting in any way possible to make you go away. If she couldn't manage it physically, she was determined to do it emotionally. She tripped you during your first efforts to walk, bullied you in the school yard, humiliated you at family functions, and to this day attempts to undermine all your efforts at establishing yourself as a confident adult. Is this simply a classic case of sibling rivalry, or is there a deeper matter at hand? What needs to happen between you and your sister to rectify the situation?

Do any of these circumstances feel familiar? Have you asked yourself these or similar questions about your own relationships? It is very likely that you have, and may still be looking for the answers, which can be discerned with the help of your friendly neighborhood Astrologer.

Since no one is an island -- no, not even Scorpios, though some may fancy themselves to be -- we benefit from connection with others as we move through our lives. We have the opportunity to learn so much about ourselves through our relationships, even the perceived "bad" ones. They can mirror us, showing both our negative and positive traits, while inspiring us to move forward, and to change through personal growth.
Many of us have been wounded through our experiences with various groups and individuals, and some of us may still have scars that block us from thriving or experiencing certain joys as a result of previous conditioning. Since everything happens for a reason, it is through understanding the true purpose behind these experiences, how and why we have personally contracted them, and how they can prove to benefit us when we accept the opportunity for growth and expansion they offer us, that we can begin to heal these wounds, and to move forward into our highest soul purpose.

Relationship Astrology, or Synastry, offers us a profound opportunity for understanding the inner mechanisms of all our personal and social connections. It can show us why some relationships are easy and flowing, while others seem to trip us up at every turn. It can also indicate where we block the easy flow of our own close relationships through fear and unconscious patterning, and suggest alternative attitudes and behaviours that can inspire us to allow these connections to flourish once again.

A qualified Astrologer can assist your efforts by casting various charts that can include your own natal chart, which will indentify any karmic or subconscious behaviours you have generated within your own psyche; a composite chart of your relationship to another, which can indicate the benefits and/or challenges that such a relationship provides each of you; and/or compile a report that compares your natal chart to that of another to determine what type of spiritual contract you both have with each other. It is important, and self-empowering, to remember that Astrology is a very effective tool in gaining deeper insight into ourselves and our circumstances.
Your astrologer is there to assist you by pointing out specific challenges that could be interfereing with your creation, and acceptance of harmonious relationships, and by suggesting possible alternatives. Since free will is the name of the game, it is up to you as an individual, or the two of you together, to determine what course of action you will utilize, based upon the information provided, to bring about constructive resolution to the challenges you face, or to determine whether this relationship should even continue at all.

We instinctively reach out to others because we innately recognize the value of such connections. Each person we meet has something to teach us, and we have something to teach them. Why we sometimes engage in destructive knee-jerk reactions and attempt to pinch off those very connections, or why the individuals we attempt to relate to are blocking the flow of harmonious exchange through their own counter-productive tendencies, is often the cause of a great deal of confusion and distress in our lives. It is through understanding the origin of these inclinations, gaining insight as to how these particular situations serve us, and determining a more constructive method of handling these circumstances that can allow us to continue moving forward in our own personal evolution.

Best wishes for your healthy relating!

Namaste.