Saturn

If you missed my post on the Jennifer Lopez/Marc Anthony split of 2011, you can find it here

And my post on the Heidi Klum/Seal split is available via Yasmin’s website here

What do both these celebrity divorces have in common? Saturn’s seven-year cycle, aka the seven-year itch. Check out the links above for more details.

First up is a square to serious Saturn. A Mercury/Saturn link invites serious contemplation of facts and promises, such that one weighs the responsibilities before signing on that proverbial dotted line.

This is an aspect of boundary setting, as well as reinforcing limits. Promises can be slow to finalise under this influence,

Saturn

but once they’re made, you can consider them set in stone. This aspect is active on Friday (through Australia) and Thursday from early afternoon (in North America, the UK and Europe).

Then, Mercury changes signs, leaving behind the safety first focus of Capricorn, and entering the free thinking sign of Aquarius. Right as this sign change is made, Mercury creates a supportive sextile to unconventional Uranus. Aquarius is a humane sign, and with the thinking planet, Mercury, there for the next 2 and a bit weeks, applying logic to life’s situations should be easier.

The Mercury/Uranus sextile, in play Saturday (in Australia) and from Friday afternoon (North America, the UK and Europe), brings exciting ideas and radical breakthroughs. The impossible can be considered possible now, helping bring unusual perspectives and developments into stagnant situations.

Virgo Mosaic

As you’ve probably gathered, energy planet Mars has hit the brakes and turned around, and is now moving backwards (retrograde) through Virgo.

I’ve got my writer hat on today and am deep in research for some features based around the topic of happiness.

As part of exploring that subject, I came across this article online, from Sydney’s Dr Happy. It’s titled ’De-clutter and De-tach for Happiness’, which to the astrologer in me, sounded a lot like one of the key influences of the extended Mars in Virgo visit - simplicity and order.

Virgo is the sign in which the wheat is sorted from the chaff: any planet placed in Virgo is constantly weighing up usefulness vs excess, form vs function.

From Dr Tim Sharp aka Dr Happy’s blog: (coincidentally posted on Jan 24 – right when Mars went retrograde!) -
” I recently received an email in which the sender stated her satisfaction following de-cluttering but her difficulty in doing this more often due to her attachment to sentimental objects. 

How, she asked, could she overcome this conundrum? 

Well, let me begin by noting that for some this is not an easy issue to resolve and that as always, this balancing act requires slightly different approaches by different people. At the same time, however, let me state that achieving the right balance will, quite simply, lead one along a simple path to simple (and genuine) happiness.” Read the rest of this post on his blog here

In total, Mars spends 6+months in Virgo, a period in which the energy planet highlights passion for cleanliness and order. Virgo is easily the most fastidious sign, and every one of us has at least one area of life that could use a good spring clean, de-clutter and release.

Progress may be slow and require reflection or repetition, but aiming to physically have less – or more efficient - stuff in your space by mid April (when the Mars retrograde ends) is a cosmically sanctioned goal right now.

Wishing you the powers of analysis and release as you seek to ditch baggage – inside and out – and re-order at least one major area of your life.

I’ve also written about the Mars in Virgo influence here

January 23, New Moon 3 degrees Aquarius

Exciting new beginnings and enlivening breakthroughs are possible, as this New Moon falls in the inventive sign of Aquarius. Both innovative Uranus and expansive Jupiter aspect the New Moon, suggesting the month ahead is one in which getting out of your comfort zone is key.

Uranus’s influence dares you to experiment with life, and break traditional taboos. Anything goes, and unexpected encounters help you radically shift perspective. Authenticity and honouring your truth are key. Travel and study adventures are highlighted as uniquely inspiring experiences for growth this month.

Chinese New Year
The Chinese celebrate their New Year on the second New Moon after the December solstice – this one! Happy New Year of the Water Dragon.

The New Moon in Aquarius occurs at:
6.39pm in Sydney
2.39am in Toronto/New York
7.39am in London

Planet Tracks:
Mercury in Capricorn, January 8 – 27
Mercury in Aquarius, January 28 – February 14
Venus in Pisces, January 14 – February 8
Mars retrograde in Virgo, January 23 – April 14

Every New Moon is a great time to align your wishes with the energy of the cosmos. Find out more about New Moon Wishing here.

Find out more about your 2012 in a personal astrology chart session.

Venus in Pisces and Your Sign’s Prospects For Love

The recent Cancer Full Moon’s impact on your domestic life

Which area of your life is most affected by Mars Retrograde?

Boosting your wellbeing in winter by your sign

How to refocus after the holidays by your element

Balancing your desire for excitement (Moon in Sag) with needs for security and stability (Jupiter in Taurus) are key now.

Upon entering Sagittarius, the Moon links to Uranus, making Wednesday night/Thursday morning (depending on your timezone) rather dynamic indeed. Be flexible, expect change and experiment.

The Moon is moving into the balsamic phase now as we head into next Monday’s New Moon – (which is also Chinese New Year). A great time to wind down and focus on bringing current projects to completion.

Next week, New Moon and for the Chinese a New Year, brings new focus and direction.

Betty has a Leo ascendant, with the Sun in Capricorn just inside the 6th House. Fixed sign risings are known for their stamina, and Capricorn is an energy that just gets better with age.

Interestingly, Betty’s bio on astrodatabank.com describes her active involvement in animal causes, something we may attribute to the animal focus of Leo (her ascendant sign, traditionally know as both bestial and feral), as well as the placement of her ascendant ruling planet – in Betty’s case the Sun – just inside the 6th House, one of the two chart sectors associated with animals. (The other being the 12th House.)

As far as I can tell (today is wiki black out day!), Betty didn’t have her own children. Looking at the astro behind fertility for her, some factors that confirm low fertility are present. Betty has Sagittarius on her 5th House cusp, with ruling planet Jupiter placed in Libra. Neither of these signs have any fertility whatsoever, if anything they’d fall on the semi-barren end of the astro fertility spectrum.

The other planet which gives clues to fertility is the Moon. Betty’s Moon is in Virgo, one of three barren signs. (This doesn’t mean if you are a Virgo you won’t be able to have kids – Virgo needs to be connected directly to one of a number of chart factors symbolising fertility for that to be the case.)

Of the two most important chart factors re fertility/conception, there are no fertile influences for Betty. Thus she didn’t have kids. She had step kids, and with the strong animal connections in her chart, that’s where her energy has flowed.

Love takes on a glossy, fairytale-like sheen now, which can make everything seem pretty perfect. For some, (especially those with planets at 1/2 of either Pisces, Taurus, Virgo or Scorpio) this weekend’s heightened Venus link (enhanced by a positive sextile from Jupiter) brings luck, growth and abundance in love.

For others, the expanding nature of love helps you focus on something that doesn’t quite feel right about a close partnership. For Venus in Pisces is nothing if not intuitive, and aware of the subtle ebbs and flow of feeling. 

Venus remains in Pisces until early February, and trusting your instincts – about love, self-care and others is a must.

Dealing with relationship reality may be less appealing now, as Venus in Pisces is turned on by the divine, spiritual and creative aspects of love. This can manifest as devotion to spiritual ritual or the practice of art/creativity in any form. Love takes on a compassionate, selfless tone whilst Venus treks through Pisces.

Express the depths of your heart through song or poetry now. (Rilke, Rumi, Neruda and Kahlil Gibran are my prose poet faves.) Mostly, let the love inside you flow out into the world around you in new and ever expanding ways.

If that all sounds a bit soppy for you, stay tuned for when Venus moves into independent Aries by mid February.

This one – Venus in Pisces – is for the romantics.

Aries

An extended visit from your patron planet Mars through health conscious Virgo – lasting until June – helps you get organised and focus on details. Digestive health is in the spotlight so consider supportive enzymes or a probiotic for maximum wellness. Tone arms and improve breathing with Pilates or active yoga. Pluto’s influence mid-March gives you the power to make major transformations.

Taurus

Your creative energy peaks between Jan 15 – Feb 8 so consider dance and art classes then. Swimming or spa sports are ideal too, and since you’re feeling social, include your friends. Time out for rest and rejuvenation is key late February. Splurge on quality food and pampering between March 6 – April 3. Manage sugar or carb cravings with chromium and lots of fresh fruit.

Gemini

You’re restless between January 28 and February 13 and will want added excitement then. Spice up your workouts with an exotic new technique or class. Neptune makes you romantic February 14 so be sure to show your feelings then. Having freedom is important under Uranus’ influence March 6 and 18 – keep your schedule flexible and be spontaneous with wellness.

Cancer

Jupiter helps you expand your social circle and connect with a wider variety of people this season. Social connections that emerged in late 2011 now develop into new friends and positive support networks. Group training appeals as you’ll want to carry the social energy as far as possible. Under the Sun’s influence from March 21 – April 19 work must come first.

Leo

Mars invites you to overhaul your finances. Revise and redo your budget and savings plans for maximum impact. Relationships are in focus under the Sun’s influence January 21 – February 19 making it important to put significant others first then. Water sports are ideal under Neptune’s influence mid-February, but you’ll resist routines as Uranus brings out your independent side on March 25.

Virgo

With Mars now retrograde in your sign you have a rare opportunity for second chances. Make peace with your past and accept the present. Energy levels are high so think high intensity training and an assertive attitude. Venus boosts romantic prospects from Jan 15 – February 8, while Jupiter encourages travel, adventure and study plans. Trying new things brings you luck!

Libra

Rest and relaxation is key between Jan 15 and Feb 9 so allow yourself time to unwind. Gentle stretching or meditation is ideal then. You’re focussed on love through February but Mercury’s retro influence in March indicates misunderstandings are likely with loved ones. Double check details and repeat yourself to ensure your message is heard. March 14 brings luck and opportunities your way.

Scorpio

You’re focussed on reorganising and dealing with details this season, which also means you’ll want to sort out a sustainable health routine once and for all. Practicality is key so consider short workouts you can do regularly. Diet is also in focus as you strive to purify your body from the inside out. Consider digestive supports like enzymes, magnesium or fresh lemon in hot water before meals.

Sagittarius

Mars helps you overhaul career, though you may have to deal with professional delays. Use unexpected extra time to consider if where you’re headed is really where you want to go. Second chances are possible. Your metabolism could be sluggish so cut down sugar, fats and starches. Consider weights for extra energy and improved circulation. March 14 is your lucky day.

Capricorn

February 6 and March 14 represent turning points, where slowing down to reconsider your options is worthwhile. By mid-March, you’ll have extra power and influence so plan major decisions for then. Kidney and thyroid health is spotlighted by Saturn so make sure you’re getting plenty of good quality water. Manage sweet cravings with iodine or chromium and aim for better life balance in all areas.

Aquarius

The Sun in your sign gives you charm and confidence from January 21 – February 19. Heart health is in focus so consider circuits for circulation and ensure you’re getting enough iron. Growth and expansion is possible at home and with family as Venus helps sweeten your domestic life and relationships through March, which is also a great time for redecorating.

Pisces

Mars’ extended visit to your relationship sector helps you reorganise key relationships. Take charge to get what you want. With sensitive Neptune in your sign from February 4 you’ll seek inspiration. Staying grounded is key and regular gentle exercise like walking, yoga and stretching helps you focus on practical reality. Confusion is likely under Mercury’s influence late March so avoid making decisions then.

Virgo Mosaic

The Moon has entered Virgo, a sign of service, but also of analysis. There is a humble tone to Virgo that can remind you to offer support to others, rather than seek glory or attention for your own achievements. (Different from the past 48 hours, where the Moon in Leo spotlights success!)

Whilst in Virgo, the Moon will align first with Mercury, (by trine) adding insight to the mental vibe. Shortly afterwards, Mercury himself aligns with Pluto. Which all adds up to a very intense, analytical and investigative mental energy.

At the very least, details matter now, as the truth seeks release. Mercury/Pluto helps you plump the depths of what’s really going on in a given situation. analytical functions are in overdrive, so if you’ve got planning or organising to do, now is an excellent time to do so with maximum efficiency.

After meeting with Mercury, the Moon adds her weight to the Sun’s focus on action planet Mars, who’s moving v-e-r-y s-l-o-w-l-y in preparation for his upcoming retrograde. With both lights, the Sun and Moon, energising Mars in quick succession, this may bring a last chance push to create progress on current projects, before the cosmic energy asks you to stand back.