New Moon in Pisces: A Shift in Consciousness

On the morning of March 6th at 8:04 PT, the new moon arrives centered in the sign of magical Pisces. The sacred fish is both fluid and free as it moves about the dark sky above. This particular new moon is perhaps the most otherworldly I have yet observed, as it is conjunct the dreamy Neptune in its home of the 12th sign. We are beckoned to the extremes of Pisces at this juncture as we plant the seeds for the next moon cycle.

Pisces is the sign of the mystic and the enchanter. Because it is the last sign of the zodiac, there is a supernatural element to this energy. Pisces is mutable and a water sign, thus the boundaries are unclear or perceived limitless. We may feel a stronger connection to spirit, as well as a heart felt empathy for those in need.

The day before the new moon, mercury stationed retrograde in Pisces. For the next few weeks, we are cloaked in an extra layer of this Pisces aura. We will experience some of the annoyances of any Mercury retrograde cycle assuredly, including miscommunications, travel mishaps and technology glitches. This particular retrograde cycle is playing an important role, however, in setting us up for how events will unfold in the next six months and beyond. 

Mercury retrograde, combined with this new moon in Pisces, is offering us a different perspective on our lives. An inner shift of consciousness is allowed to unfold. You may find that the dreams and visions that you have for your life take a different direction at this time. You may find that your actual dreams are intensely vivid in fact! My advice is to let yourself reflect and dream. Be open to new inspiration and allow yourself to discover a new way of viewing the world around you. 

Because this is Pisces retrograde season, I would also advise not to commit to one particular path until after Mercury stations direct on March 28th. Finding clarity will take time. During the next couple weeks our emotions may be running higher than usual as well. Give yourself time and space for inner contemplation and to be able to process these heightened feelings. If this feels like a difficult time, know that you are not alone. Sharing your thoughts and feeling with someone you trust will be extra helpful during this period.  

The day after this new moon, Uranus makes its final arrival into the sign of earthy Taurus. Though we may be 'slowing down' during this Pisces season, there is simultaneously much constructive momentum pulling us forward. For the past 7 or so years, Uranus has been liberating us in the Aries sector of our lives. We have been strengthened where we feel most independent and inspired in our lives. With Uranus moving into Taurus, we are now being'shaken up' where we are most solidified in our lives. Taurus, being a fixed earth sign, does not always willingly want to be freed from its chains! It will be interesting to see how we all experience this Uranian shift collectively and individually. 

The Pisces season, although it may be confusing at times, is setting us up for success for this grand movement of Uranus into the sign of Taurus. Journeying through waters of Pisces will give us the shift of consciousness we need in order to move forward in the next season with more inner confidence and success. May you find strength and wisdom on your journey.  

Virgo Full Super Moon: Blessed by the Sacred Goddess

Pisces season starts with a bang with the assistance of the powerful earth goddess: a super full moon in the sign of Virgo. Upon the sun entering the sign of Pisces on February 19th, we have the full moon in Virgo at zero degrees at 7:54AM PT. Virgo is the sign of the dutiful perfectionist and the sacred servant.She inspires within all of us to find sacred purpose in our work, our mission and our calling. The recent Aquarius new moon brought some exciting opportunities or ideas, and now we can begin to see the results in the earthly realm. 

This full moon is especially wonderful because it will be closest to the earth and will be conjunct the magnificent fixed star Regulus.  Regulus, living at zero degrees Virgo, indicates valiant courage and supreme success.  Because it is the moon joining this star, women will be feeling especially successful, ambitious and independent. Wherever zero degrees Virgo occurs in your own personal chart will indicate where honor, wealth and feminine wisdom exists for you. To use this full moon to the best of its capacity, however, our intentions must be pure. With Virgo, success only comes when our desires are of a high vibration and are for the good of all. 

Mars and Uranus make a trine to this full moon, ushering in even more bravado. These two planets may be motivating us or inspiring us to go further than we thought possible. At this time there may be unexpected breakthroughs and moments of genius. Harness this upbeat energy to further communicate an important message or to finally complete a large project.

Enjoy this glorious full moon energy while it lasts, as the tone will be changing a bit in the coming weeks.  As we move into March, our momentum may be slowed by Mercury stationing retrograde in the sign of the fish. Mercury will station on March 5th, and will be in Pisces for a total of two months. For some, this may mean plenty of confusion in communication or travel plans. All in all, however, I'm excited for the opportunity to go deeper with this Piscean energy. This is the perfect time to deepen a spiritual practice and get in touch with our intimate selves. Perhaps we may reach a new height in spiritual understanding, deepen our meditation practice or begin a new area of study in the realm of the occult. This time may also be packed with dreamy creativity, but we must harness our strength in our dedication to bring our Neptunian visions into reality. 

In Pisces, our options are limitless and our dreams are boundless. 

Capricorn New Moon + Year of the Empress

Tarot artwork by Starchild Tarot. Available for purchase on our website.

On Saturday, the moon joins the sun exactly centered in earthy Capricorn at 5:28PM PT. This first new moon of the year is a partial eclipse, giving it some extra intensity. We are ushered into a brand new series of eclipses taking place in Capricorn and Cancer, which will take place throughout the year. What we put forth at this Capricorn new moon will bear fruit in many ways throughout the entire year. Where Capricorn and Cancer occur in your natal chart, will tell you much about how these eclipses will affect you personally.. 

Sandwiched between such serious players as Saturn and Pluto in Capricorn, the new moon is summoning us to come up with a plan for 2019. What do you wish to accomplish this year? 2019 is looking to be a mighty eventful year, and the more you can feel grounded in your own 'vision', the better off you will be.

The year 2019 is a collective numerology year '3', and this is an auspicious number for manifestation and creativity. It's no wonder that when I pulled a tarot card to represent the New Moon, I pulled the 3rd Major Arcana card.. theEmpress herself! The Empress represents the power of the divine feminine and our ability to create an abundant life. She is the divine mother of the Tarot, and she has special powers for creating and nurturing new life.

The north node in Cancer, the sign of 'the Mother', further shifts our collective focus towards this divine feminine. It seems no coincidence that 100 years ago, a woman's right to vote was passed in the United States congress. And on this very day, we have a record number of women sworn into U.S. congress. It looks as though women will be having a major impact on world change this year and for years to come.

The South Node, Pluto and Saturn will all be in Capricorn all year long. There is much to process here.. and to release. On a collective level, Capricorn represents the long established patriarchal systems and governments in our society. As old and broken structures are let go, we should expect to see much shifting and changing in these areas around the globe. The North node, in loving and compassionate Cancer, is our beacon as we move through these changes.  Now is the time to recognize the power of feminine wisdom. 

Before we proceed, however, we must return to this Saturday's new moon in Capricorn. We receive a beautiful sextile to Neptune, which expands our awareness and imagination. Jupiter squares Neptune, even greater expanding the scope of this influence. As we make plans for 2019, we are called to dream BIG. These are the types of dreams that we know we are not likely to accomplish this year, but they allow us to think with extra creativity. It gives us the extra push we need to get out of our comfort zone. 

As we expand our imaginations, we may discover a new talent or attract an exciting new project. One way to tap into this Neptune magic is to have a regular spiritual or meditation practice. Also, spending quality time with dear loved ones and friends can expand our thinking. Find ways to get our of your 'head' and connect with your heart. 

In summary, January will tell us a lot about our year to come. Our spirituality and intimate relationships are a big part of this story, as well as the 'work' we are called to do in this life. As we embrace the year of the Empress, I wish you all immense growth, abundance, creativity and love. Happy new moon!

My Four Top Favorite Tarot Decks of All Time

During this time of year, we are often searching for that special one of a kind gift for someone who has 'all the things'. I have always believed a special tarot deck is the supreme gift for anyone who is looking to develop their intuitive or psychic talents. A tarot deck can also be a special gift to give yourself; an intention set for moving into the new year with a more open and clear 6th chakra or 3rd eye. 

When I was fourteen, I had my first introduction to tarot. My best friend's mother would give us readings on occasion and teach us things like what 'intuition' meant. At that time in my life I was eager for any information on the occult, and I was immediately drawn to using tarot as a tool for connecting with a wisdom beyond my own conscious judgement. 

As you did in the mid 90's, I visited my local bookshop in search of a tarot deck for myself. I had heard the old fable that you are not supposed to gift yourself a deck, but I had a feeling that was nonsense. I also knew I wasn't going to wait around for a tarot deck to appear! 

Out of the few options that were available, I chose a contemporary Celtic style deck. The images were vibrant, and I connected with some of the symbolism. Over the years, this deck did me well. Eventually, I outgrew this first deckand I've purchased many new decks of a wide variety since then. 

I don't wish to bad talk anyone's personal creation, but I have purchased several decks that I later regretted. Sometimes the picture on a cover of a deck does not give you the whole story. Also, I don't know that I truly love a deck until I've worked with it for a good amount of time. I've purchased decks that I will use for three to six months, then all of a sudden I don't pick it up again. 

I'm often asked by beginning tarot readers for recommendations on tarot decks. I thought it might be helpful if I wrote about some of my all time favorite decks. Of course, my favorite tarot decks may not be your favorite decks. You should always be aware of what you are being drawn to, and give yourself some time to figure out what you like. 

Any of the following four decks I believe to be amazing choices for a first time reader or a seasoned expert of tarot... 


1.  Rider Waite Smith Tarot
This deck was first published in 1910, and it is the classic that all modern day decks are based from. The cards were drawn by illustrator Pamela Colman Smith from the instructions of academic and mystic A. E. Waite, and published by the Rider Company. Hands down, this is the deck that I recommend to any beginner of tarot. The artwork is beautiful but simple. The chosen symbols are thoughtful and meaningful to the interpretation of each card. Also, the traditional symbolism will easily translate to most any other tarot deck you are using. The deck is widely available, but be aware that it does come in different versions. An image of the Empress card, one of my favorite in the deck, is shown below:

 

2.  The Starchild Tarot
I have been using this deck since its birth in 2013, and it is the highest vibrating deck I've ever worked with. This may seem cheesy, but I find the other-worldly imagery so uplifting and transformative. Sacred geometry anyone? If you are the type of person that finds some of the traditional tarot card artwork 'scary', you will love this deck. For example, the Death card is labeled 'Transformation' and the Hanged Man card is labeled 'Perspective'. Thus, the meaning is the same, but there is a shift toward the enlightened viewpoint.

You'll also find that this deck has an additional card, called the Akashic Records. This card does not exist in the first edition, so it is still a bit mysterious to me. But I do love the concept of this additional card. There have been several editions of this deck over the years, with slight evolvements each time. All in all, I am still partial to my original deck for sentimental reasons, but I'm planning to work more with the newest version in 2019.

We are happy to announce we are now carrying this beautiful deck atChariot. If you are interested in purchasing this deck for yourself, or as a gift for a loved one, you can purchase in store or online: The Starchild Tarot 

The Starchild Tarot and companion guidebook are pictured below:

3.  The Aquarian Tarot
This deck was first released in 1970. I love the 'flower child' aesthetic that reflects the time, as well as the Art Nouveau influences. David Palladini, the artist, was an art school student attending Pratt Institute when he started creating this deck. The artwork and simple symbolism stand the test of time, and it is a true tarot classic.

Whenever I use this deck with clients, they are somewhat surprised to find out it comes from 1970. There is a certain timelessness to the design. If you are partial to the color palette of this era, you will certainly love this deck. For any artist or creative type, this is a great addition to their collection.

The Aquarian Tarot's Moon card is pictured below:
 

4.  Pagan Otherworlds Tarot
Though I have not been using this tarot deck near as long as the rest, I have a feeling I will be using it for many years to come. This deck is a true masterpiece, with each card masterfully hand painted with multiple layers of detail. The artwork is executed in a traditional Renaissance style, using such classic techniques as 'Chiaroscuro'.  Yes, I remember something from art history class!

First released in 2016, the deck somehow emanates an authentic 'old world' feel. There are small touches of a contemporary design, however, that make the overall deck feel fresh and very 'now'. What makes this deck utterly unique is all the extra cards included: 5 'holographic' moon phase cards and one extra major arcana card. With my knowledge of astrology and the moon phases, the use of these extra cards has come very natural to me. 

This deck is ideal for any tarot reader who honors the old traditions, but who also wants to dip into something brand new. Chariot is now carrying this deck, along with the beautifully written companion guidebook. You can purchase the tarot deck in store or online: Pagan Otherworlds Tarot

The Pagan Otherworlds Major Arcana and Lunar Phase cards are shown below:

Assuredly, there are many more beautiful tarot decks out there that I have yet to work with. I look forward to continuing my own search for powerful tarot decks here and in the future. It is my hope that everyone who is a lover of the occult knowledge and tarot has more than one deck that connects powerfully with them. It is also my hope to powerfully assist others on their personal journeys to connecting with their intuition and the Tarot.

Please don't hesitate to reach out to me for assistance this December and in the new year of 2019. Many blessings to you.

New Moon in Sagittarius: Dare to dream big.

Artwork by Renee Staeck

Tomorrow, the moon joins the sun at 11:20pm PT in the exact center of fiery Sagittarius. What I find most interesting about this new lunar phase is we are learning about how Jupiter in Sagittarius will be influencing our lives over the coming year. As I stated in the previous newsletter, Jupiter entered its home sign of the mighty 'archer' last month. Jupiter in Sagittarius is an exciting transit for working with manifestation, as Jupiter will be more optimal for granting us gifts and blessings this year. 

Sagittarius is a mutable fire sign. The mighty archer gives us a feeling of inspiration and will power to go after our dreams. We discover what it is that we desire and we take aim. We may not always hit the mark, so we adjust and take aim again. This mutable energy lends itself towards having a 'flexible' attitude. We may need to adapt to our ever changing conditions and surroundings as we travel over the next few months.

Mercury has been retrograde for the past few weeks. On the very same day as the new moon, Mercury stations direct at 27 degrees Scorpio. Whew! This is probably a welcome shift for many. If you have been frustrated by travel delays, technical glitches or communication mishaps, you should soon be feeling some relief. The actual day of the new moon may be tricky as Mercury stations, but we will experience smoother sailing in the next few days.

Since the beginning of the month, Mars has been squaring the sun. I sense that many people have been pushing themselves hard this past week in order to complete a task, deadline or goal of some kind. With this extra 'push', we may be feeling extra irritated. There is a tension building as we approach the new moon. We are probably feeling extra motivated (or pressured by others) to keep up this strenuous pace, but this does not look to be a sustainable method. 

On the day of the new moon, Mars conjuncts Neptune in Pisces. The watery and calming nature of Neptune dissolves the fiery flames of Mars. The tension that has been building is released somehow. At this time we may be feeling more low energy or perhaps even become sick. On a more upbeat note, we may be shown the larger perspective about a situation and feel more empathy. The day of the new moon would be an excellent time to take a break. Allow yourself to slow down enough to catch your breath. 

Many of us battle regular anxiety. Something about this new lunar phase is highlighting how we deal or cope with our anxiety. I'm sensing that whatever anxious feelings come up at this time are acting as an opportunity for discovering our actual selves. This can be a moment for real spiritual growth. Neptune in Pisces activates us towards returning to self care practices or learning new calming techniques. If you have a meditation practice or are interested in meditation, this would be an excellent day to deepen your connection with this practice. Take a moment to breath and reconnect with the self. 

Despite whatever challenges we currently face, Jupiter is connected with this new moon and offering some of its potent magic. What we put forward now will produce impactful and joyous results six months from now at the time of the full moon in Sagittarius. But these gifts won't simply be given to us, we must put in the work. At this time and through the rest of December, we are called to reflect on what we hope to manifest in 2019.


Here are some questions we can ask ourselves to help initiate our goals and dreams: 
 

• What projects am I finishing up in 2018?

• What goals did I reach in 2018? 

• What is no longer a goal or important to me?

• What am I still working towards? 

• What will make me feel more prosperous or abundant?

• What do I want more of in 2019?

• What is something brand new I'd like to manifest in 2019?

• Is there one word that reflects my intention for the new year?

As we approach the winter solstice, we are wrapping up a lot at the end of 2018. This is the darkest part of the year, and much like the energy of a new moon.We are called to go within and dream. This is often one of the busiest times of year, so schedule some down time if you can. Our intuition works best when we give ourselves a little bit of peace and quiet. 

Blessings to you on this new moon and the new year! 

New Moon in Libra: A Beacon of Hope

Artwork by: Cosmik Dust

Yesterday evening, at 8:47 PT, the moon joined the sun in the sign of the scales. We are now at the heart of Libra, and experiencing the beauty of autumn and harvest season. Libra is all about our relationships, beauty, harmony and balance. We may assume this new moon is about how we bring 'balance' into our lives, but I see a much more nuanced message here. 

The moon is in difficult aspect to Pluto, making a square to this slow moving planet in Capricorn. This tells me we are experiencing the beginning of some BIG changes in our society, but these changes will take time and effort to reach fruition. It can take more than 12 years for Pluto to transit one sign, and thus we may not see the huge results for another decade. Still... our small efforts put forward now will be mirrored by the collective, and positive societal shifts are eventually possible. At this moment we are able to see with more clarity where imbalance and unfairness still exists in our communities, our governments, and the structures that have beenlong standing. With this clarity, comes some distress, but also hope that change is possible. The scales of Libra yearn for justice. 

Our biggest challenge is perhaps being able to face these current challenges with continued optimism and with hope. We do have some assistance from another air sign Aquarius. The new moon is in positive aspect to Mars in Aquarius. We are motivated to put our thoughts and actions out into the world, and in an authentic and powerful way. 

Libra is ruled by Venus, so we have much more to add to this story. On October 5th, Venus stationed retrograde in the sign of Scorpio. She is traveling in the shadows now, and this may feel a bit uncomfortable. This Venus transit will last till November 16th. During this time, we may be struggling with some internalized emotions. Feelings of jealousy, obsession, power struggles or betrayal may be coming up for us now. We may even have a secret that becomes all consuming. 

During this Venus retrograde time, it is helpful to make this energy constructive somehow. What truths are our emotions telling us? Bottling up these feelings would be harmful, but being overly reactive would not be helpful either. Think of ways to process any difficult emotions in a constructive manner, whether through journaling, therapy or your art. This has the potential for a powerfully creative time. 

Venus in Scorpio, in an empowering sense, makes me think of the High Priestess in tarot. The wise female sage of the tarot. This energy is inward but powerful. Dark and mysterious. The High Priestess exerts her feminine power only when necessary, and her words and actions are thoroughly planned. She is willing to peer into the darkness and face her fears, knowing this is the only way to positive transformation. As we approach Halloween, Venus seems to be going full witch!

In an aesthetic sense, because Venus rules beauty and design, we may find ourselves drawn to darker colors. We may find beauty in what is normally scary or unnerving. I like to think Venus in Scorpio is the perfect time to connect with our inner 'Goth'. It's time to plan an extra extravagant costume and go deep with this Scorpio mood. 

Here is a mantra to welcome this new moon in Libra and for manifestation. If these words resonate with you, you are welcome to use them in your own ritual:


I welcome beauty, harmony and love into my life. 
I am a loyal friend and I cherish my friendships.
I welcome exciting new opportunities and adventures. 
I feel love deeply and I express my love authentically.
I can overcome any challenges with ease and wisdom.
I do not need to strive for perfection and I embrace all sides of myself.

New Moon in Virgo: an Earth portal awakens..

Photo/Artwork by: JINGNA ZHANG

This Sunday, the sun and the moon join once again, in the sign of the Earth Goddess. The new moon in Virgo occurs precisely at 11:01AM (PT), and there is much to say about the beginning of this new lunar cycle.

Virgo shows us the importance of connecting with the earthly realm: our bodies, the mother earth and our physical spaces. This goddess teaches us the vitality of organizing our lives, living healthy and clean, not shying away from our responsibilities, and being of service to ourselves and others. On this new moon, may we perform great healing in the earthly realm of our lives. 

The new moon trines Pluto, motivating us to transform our lives in powerful ways. We may be able to better recognize our negative habits and release them with passion and conviction. If you are thinking about starting a healthier diet, a new exercise routine, quitting smoking, or beginning a healthier lifestyle of any kind -- this is an excellent time. You will find more willpower than usual to bring about positive changes.  

Neptune is in direct opposition to the new moon, which gives us a clue as to how we should best harness the magic of this time. In order to access our intuition and powers of manifestation, we should make time for quiet reflection or meditation type practices. There is a need to quiet the mind to truly receive the inspiration and needed clarity in how to move forward with this Virgo energy.

With the moon sextiling Jupiter as well, there is a great opportunity for creativity and exciting new opportunities to expand our horizons. 

A grand earth trine appears at the time of the new moon as well. This grand trine acts as a magical portal, allowing us to manifest our dreams into physical reality.  Mercury in Virgo gives us the ability to pay attention to necessary details. Saturn in Capricorn gives us the discipline to do the work and be patient with the outcomes. Then finally, Uranus in Taurus is allowing us to break free from our old and tired routines with brand new opportunities. With this mighty trio, we are able to make great and lasting changes in our lives. We feel ready for new and exciting challenges.

There may be opportunities for us to take risks at this time, in order to achieve long term rewards. We could be looking at opportunities for investments, changing jobs, remodeling a home, growing our family, or looking to start a new business. Now is the time to look at what structures we have outgrown, and where can we re-direct those energies. How can we build a new foundation that is more fitting of who we have become?

On the very day of the New Moon, Venus enters the water sign of Scorpio. We may find that our passions are heightened, and we desire our relationships to go deeper. There is a sensual nature to Scorpio, where we can't help but 'feel' the intensity of our longings. Venus is joining Jupiter, making the next month or so an extra fertile time for love and creativity. 

If you have been feeling hyper critical of yourself in the past couple weeks, you are not alone. There has been a mounting pressure of 'internal doubt' making us perhaps ask why we have not achieved certain goals yet or accomplished a certain level of status. As Saturn moves forward in Capricorn, we should feel more productive -- despite what challenges surface along our path. May this new moon re-inspire us to to connect with our goals in a more productive way and to live our lives with purpose and in good health.

Take a moment to tap into this grand earth magic and manifest some dreams. 

Pisces Full Moon: Letting faith be our guide.

Image source unknown.

Early Sunday morning, at 4:46AM (PT), the moon will reach her peak fullness in the sign of the wise fish. This watery full moon is an especially welcome energy right now, as we have had a rather difficult August. Several planets have been retrograde this summer, including Mars, causing many challenges and fiery circumstances.

If you have been suffering from insecurities and frustrations more than usual, you are not alone. When Mars is retrograde, the dark side of Mars energy gets amplified. We may be feeling more of the 'heat' and extra challenges when interacting with others. Retrograde periods teach us we can no longer live our lives per usual. Alterations must be made and mind sets shifted. Through our difficulties, however, we learn a more meaningful path to a greater joy. 

The full moon occurs at 3 degrees Pisces, exactly conjunct the noble fixed star 'Fomalhaut'. This magical fixed star lives in the eye of the fish itself, and foretells a story of magic and spirituality. At this time we can access a stronger source of faith, through the extra sensitive lens of Pisces. We may be feeling more optimistic than usual, or perhaps we are able to find extra strength in our spirituality. Fomalhaut reminds me of the tarot card the Knight of Cups. He is a dreamer with lofty ideas. He can be a bit spaced out at times and disconnected from reality, but sometimes a full moon needs to take us to greater heights. Imaginary heights or real ones. 

We can breath a little easier, as this is the first moon in some time that is not eclipsed. In fact, this moon has no negative aspects whatsoever. The moon sextiles both Saturn and Uranus within a grand earth trine. This is both a grounding and innovative energy. We can think creatively and expect long term positive results. There is a renewed faith that all things will work out. May we take this energy into next week, as Mars turns direct on the 27th. We may still have some bumps in the road, but we can see the path clearing ahead. 

This would be an excellent time to access your creativity, especially in music and writing. I would also suggest taking an epsom salt bath or visiting the ocean or other body of water if you are able. Pisces teaches us to trust our creative process, our intuition and to simply let go. This is not a time for ego or monetary rewards; we can set our intentions on a higher vibration. Be like water and flow towards where your heart takes you. This weekend, do something to feed your soul. 

The following horoscopes are based on the wisdom of this Pisces full moon. First read your ascendant sign, and follow with your sun and/or moon sign. 

ARIES:  Find space and time for relaxation and solitude on this full moon. Treat yourself with the utmost kindness, and give yourself a special gift. You are learning what you need in order to stay inspired and keep from feeling depleted. Great inner wisdom is accessed through meditation and dream-work.

TAURUS: You are finding confidence and clarity within the role within your community or friendships. Long term hopes and dreams may feel more accessible now, as you move forward with more defined goals. Have faith in your leadership and decision making. 

GEMINI: You may find great support in your professional relationships. There could be a partnership giving you renewed faith in your career path. You are learning to align yourself with other like minded souls who want to see you succeed. Look for ways to be creative with others and for collaborative opportunities.

CANCER: You may be experiencing a renewed vigor in your higher purpose. Remain focused on those lofty dreams, but meanwhile grounded in your present reality. You are learning how to remain inspired, through the ups and the downs. Keep learning and honing your craft, as you prepare for your next big adventure. 

LEO: How you invest, share, or simply view your finances may be adjusting at this time. There could be a new source for additional wealth through a creative endeavor. You are learning to have a fresh new perspective on how you use your money. Missed opportunities or past mistakes will lead to new and better options. 

VIRGO: Your close relationships or partnerships may be improving. Rather than avoiding conflicts, you are learning how to have more open and honest communication. You are feeling a need to create more balance and equality in your relationships. Approach others with kindness and ask for what you need from them. 

LIBRA: You are learning ways to heighten your joy in daily ritual. Perhaps you are trying a new schedule or incorporating a new routine into your day. Look for ways to get more out of your morning or evening time. Your health and happiness will repay you. 

SCORPIO: You may have been experiencing some conflict within your romantic relationships or within your creative expression this past month. The full moon is showing your ability to release the tension you have been feeling. This stress has been limiting your creative potential, and the connection you truly wish to have with others. Moving forward you can unlock your passions to new heights, as you are especially 'fertile' over the next couple months. 

SAGITTARIUS: The full moon is bringing your attention to your home and family. Over the past couple weeks, you may have felt some tension within your household. Perhaps you are undergoing a stressful home remodel or perhaps you have felt unhappy with the actions of a family member. You are learning how to release this stressful dynamic somehow and create sacred sanctuary within your household again. Look for ways to create peace, harmony and beauty in your home environment. 

CAPRICORN: As the moon approaches fullness, you may be drawn to creative writing or using your voice in a unique way. Let the mystery of the moon inspire you to express yourself creatively. Your intuition will be your guide as you access deeper ways to communicate your feelings. Learn to trust your curiosity at this time.

AQUARIUS: There have been some hard lessons recently in your sense of self worth and your feelings of abundance. As with anything in life, you are experiencing the ups and downs in this area. You are learning to love yourself, no matter the circumstances. Any set backs you are experiencing now are temporary or simply not properly aligned with your authentic self. Let the Pisces full moon renew your faith in yourself -- that you are valuable and prosperous now and always.

PISCES: Dear Pisces, this moon speaks to you most personally of all. You may be experiencing a radical shift in how you see yourself, and how you wish to present yourself to the world. You are learning how to let go of what no longer aligns with your identity. Perhaps you feel inspired to 'reinvent' yourself somehow in order to live a more authentic life. Let the magic of this Pisces moon speak to you at your deepest core. 

New Moon Eclipse in Leo: Living through the heart.

Artwork from the Morgan-Greer Tarot deck.

Late last evening evening, or early this morning, (Pacific Time) we welcome the new moon in the sign of mighty Leo. And yet again, we have another solar eclipse in the sign of the regal the lion. 

This is the last Leo solar eclipse we will see until the year 2027. So what does this particular solar eclipse mean for us now? We can look for clues if we look back at what was occurring on the last Leo solar eclipse, which occurred August 21st of last year. This was the 'Great American Eclipse', as it was visible in much of the United States. 

Think back to what events were taking place in your life at that time. Were there any surprises? Big shifts? At this time, events may mirror what we were experiencing last August. We may be concluding a 'story' that began at that time. Or perhaps we have some unfinished business to attend to. 

As with any new moon, we look to fresh new beginnings and what we are hoping to manifest in our lives. With this particular new moon, the energy is a bit unusual in that we have six planets retrograde. When Mercury and other planets are in a retrograde motion, it is often not a good time for starting something new. So what can we do?

I think this is an excellent time to both reflect on the past and simultaneously dream about our futures. All the while, pay attention to subtle queues from the universe. Eclipses are often bringing events, people and circumstances into our lives outside of our control. Thus, we must remain somewhat flexible in our planning. We can certainly dream, but know that the universe will want to have a say in your plans. Pay attention to the messages and be open to a path that is truer and better than you can imagine on your own. 

The New Moon is opposing a retrograde Mars and squaring a retrograde Uranus. Thus, our plans may not go as smoothly as we would like at this time. We are offered a few obstacles to either test us or to put us on a better path. A word that comes to mind is patience as we move forward with any new plans. 

One planet that seems to be offering divine help at this time is Venus, whom recently entered her home sign of Libra. Venus LOVES Libra, so this is a lovely energy all around. She is sextiling this New Moon, offering loving assistance. We may find that our closest partners, lovers and friends are able to help us to cultivate our visions at this time. Relationships seem to be especially important all around in helping us to overcome obstacles and to give us strength. 

Venus in Libra may also be allowing us to find balance within our being. Leo represents the Sun, our sense of self, and our ego. On the bright side of Leo we celebrate our unique self expression, our leadership skills, and our sense of play. The shadow side of Leo gets lost in the ego, and can be burdened by the need of constant adoration or recognition. I believe one of the lessons we are all learning right now is how to balance the ego and the spirit. 

Leo also represents the heart. Our passion for life would not exist if it were not for our meaningful relationships, and Leo knows this. The union of our hearts with our families, our loved ones, and our communities is where we can find true joy during the Leo season. 

In case you are wondering, Mercury will turn direct on the 19th, along with Mars later in the month. Our plans will be put into action much more easily at that time, and communication should be much better all around! 

 


Happy New Moon!

CANCER NEW MOON

A PARTIAL ECLIPSE NURTURES NEW BEGINNINGS

Photo by NASA.

On July 12th, at 7:45pm, we welcome the Cancer New Moon. This is a particularly active New Moon, as it is a partial solar eclipse and opposes transformational Pluto in serious Capricorn. Eclipses act as gateways to new chapters in our lives. I often think of them as 'leveling up' somehow on our life path. Changes and opportunities can come suddenly, but the entirety of the event will be felt over the next six months or so. Because this is a partial eclipse, I'm thinking of it as a light appetizer to the entire meal that is to come. 

With the sun and moon joined in watery Cancer, we are deeply connected to our emotions at this time. Retrograde Pluto and Mars may be triggering some fear or frustration, and it's important that we find healthy ways to process these emotions. The sign of Cancer is the mother of the Zodiac, and she wishes to nurture and to heal. Her sensitivity may be seen as a weakness to some, but she is mighty and strong in her reserve. The sign of Cancer is cardinal, and is good at solving problems creatively. 

There is an opportunity at this time to clear the air and start anew. If conflicts arise, approach resolutions differently than you have in the past. This does not mean being a push over by any means, but be wary of feeding into any drama that surrounds you at this time. Be clear in your priorities, set clear intentions, keep a clear head, and create any necessary boundaries. The priorities for Cancer are always their family, home and loved ones. 

This New Moon also has a lot of positive manifestation power working for it, as it trines joyful Jupiter and dreamy Neptune. Jupiter is now finally going direct, and is ushering in some good fortune wherever it lies in your chart. Despite some other challenging aspects, this is a very promising start to this lunar cycle!

We also have a grand earth trine occurring between loving Venus, serious Saturn and radical Uranus. I love this blend of energies in the earth signs, as it helps to materialize our dreams into the physical. Uranus brings exciting opportunities and Saturn makes it real. There is real opportunity to realize a dream with some work and practical planning.

In summary, this is an exciting time for many. We may be feeling more motivated to move in a new direction, and the universe will be presenting an opportunity or two for us to evolve immensely. There will likely be some bumps in the road along the way, and they will test our reserves. We may question our path at times because it feels too challenging. The advice I'm hearing is to stay focused on your long term goals. Know that it will take time and work, but that it will all be worth the ride.