astrologer

Astrology Lecture by Donna Greco: AS ABOVE, SO BELOW: A Stargazer’s View

AS ABOVE SO BELOW:
A Star-gazer’s View – Donna Greco
Sunday, April 23 at 1:30 PM 
Room F117 in Falk Hall on the campus of Chatham University 
 
Astrologer Donna Greco will discuss the significance of current planetary events and the messages we are being graced with both personally and collectively. The emphasis will be on Chiron, The Wounded Healer as it continues to travel through Pisces, as well as the ongoing Jupiter-Uranus-Pluto T-Square which is greatly affecting the political climate. The challenges, opportunities, themes and elements of transformation which are upon us, as well as global events as mirrors for personal reflection will be discussed. And, there is always the unexpected inspiration that strikes just before the talk! There will be opportunity for open discussion.
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NEW MOON IN ARIES: “To Thine Own Self Be True”

The New Moon arrives at 7 degrees of Aries on Sunday, March 27 at 10:57 PM EDT. 

New Moons offer us a three day window of time in which to embark upon a new emotional cycle.  As life unfolds before us each day, our emotions like the Moon,  wax and wane; like the ocean, ebb and flow. We are after all, liquid beings. Our physical bodies are 50-65% water. The Moon is the harbinger of oceanic tides as well as the steward of human emotions.

Our emotional body is an entity unto itself, exerting influences which bare great significance upon each and every area of our lives. Attuning to the lunar cycles coupled with astute awareness of where they appear in the natal chart, greatly assists us on our soul’s journey. The Moon is a prolific reminder that life is in a continuous state of flux. During each New Moon, we are washed ashore to a new landscape which offers us a new horizon yet unseen. Upon our arrival, we are filled with aspiration.

As the Spring Equinox is the astrological New Year, the Aries New Moon is a prolific time in which to embrace one’s nascent self. We are now as seedlings, pushing up through the earth, emerging as a new life form. Aries is the instinctual life force! Aries is the will to exist.

Aries The Ram is a cardinal fire sign embodying the archetypes of The Pioneer, The Warrior, The Daredevil, The Loner and The Survivor. Aries exudes the qualities of individuality, assertiveness, innovativeness, independence, courage, aggression, passion, ferocity and leadership. Keep in mind, that often times an Aries person does not naturally possess these characteristics, but rather, has come into this incarnation to explore and learn them. As with every sign, there is an evolutionary scale. While we possess the inherent potential and soul knowledge, some of the qualities and characteristics of a sign are still in process. We strive to bring those hidden areas of ourselves, both the flawed and the virtuous, into consciousness; for consciousness itself is the great emancipator.

Along with the Sun and Moon in Aries, these luminaries are accompanied by Venus, Mercury and Uranus, also in Aries. Thus we are endowed with a potent infusion of the fire element providing an optimization of our life force in which exuberance, determination, optimism, faith, confidence and courage are ever present as we embark on the next leg of the journey. Follow the path. It is a road not yet taken. It is solely your own.

We must be true and brave to the core of our being. Our own unique instinctual brilliance is our vital life force. When we deny our true nature, when we ignore our instinctual knowledge, anger explodes as lave from a volcano. While we may believe we are angry at a person or a situation, we are in fact really angry at the self.

Where have you been untrue to yourself? Aries challenges us to face this awareness as an impetus for change so that we may purely express our true nature from the core of our being.

Light your torch. Shed your own light.  There is nobody such as you.

Aries New Moon Blessings Upon You

“To thine own self be true.”- Polonius in Hamlet, William Shakespeare

“Two roads diverged in a wood, and I- I took the road less traveled by, And that has made all the difference.

– Robert Frost –

“If I have the belief that I can do it, I shall surely acquire the capacity to do it even if I may not have the capacity  at the beginning.” – Mahatma Gandhi

” Whatever you do, you need courage. Whatever course you decide upon, there is always someone to tell you that you are wrong. There are always difficulties arising that tempt you to believe your critics are right. To map out a course of action and follow it to an end requires some of the same courage that a soldier needs. Peace has its victories, but it takes brave men and women to win them.”

– Ralph Waldo Emerson –

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PISCES NEW MOON SOLAR ECLIPSE: Swimming The Sea of Life

The New Moon Solar Eclipse arrives at 8 degrees of Pisces on Sunday, February 26 at 9:58 AM EST.

During a New Moon, we are offered the sacred conjunction of both solar and lunar consciousness. It is here where we blend and merge aspects of our psyche which may at other times be quite estranged from each other. Something within us awakens from an ancient slumber propelling us to embark upon a nascent journey.

Solar Eclipses always happen upon a New Moon, impressing upon us a heightened impetus toward a new beginning. Somewhere, within some dimension of our multi- layered lives, a spotlight shines forth. The stage is set. Herein lies heightened subjective awareness. Wherever the New Moon Solar Eclipse falls in your natal chart, wherever Pisces resides, there will be a marked change. Whether upon some exterior level, or within an interior realm, the life we have known is forever altered. As our interior world is the facilitator for our outer experience, we will most  likely see the changes both within and without. As Pisces is the most imaginative of the signs, these images are evermore potent and powerful thus exerting greater influence upon our lives.

Each lunar cycle forms a grand assembly of planetary participants who interact with each other, thus propelling us to commune with the different and sometimes opposing aspects within and of ourselves. There is complexity. We are assembling our own unique puzzle, searching for the missing pieces, finding that they were right in front of us in clear view all along. The Moon in Pisces is accompanied by Mercury, the  South Node, the Sun, Neptune and Chiron. Themes of communication, karma, essence, God and the wounded healer emerge and merge, huddling together as a cosmic team.

Prominent archetypal themes for this sign include The Dreamer, The Poet, The Mystic, The Martyr and The Redeemer. Pisces embodies the qualities of compassion, sensitivity, imagination, creativity, dreaminess, other-worldliness, changeability and attunement to the Divine.

As Neptune is the ruler of Pisces, it’s immersion within this Pisces cluster  imbues it with even more mystery, spirit, emotion, depth and sensitivity.

At this time, Pisces The Fishes is awakening within us deeper contemplation of where we belong in the grandeur of life. We find our ourselves, like The Fishes, swimming in opposite directions only to find that we come full circle.  As a mutable feminine water sign, Pisces adeptly circumvents the turbulent waters embracing duality.

We cannot escape the intensity of emotion that not only is reflective of our personal experience. We listen and hear the cries of the world as well. Collective consciousness looms large. There is a desire to expand the source of our spiritual awareness, thus facilitating healing for ourselves and each other in a world that is at the same time both consumed by and longing for compassion.

Wherever Pisces resides within our chart, we will encounter heightened sensitivity,  psychic expansion and experience of our oneness with life in its myriad forms. As the last sign of the zodiac, Pisces is a sign of karmic completion. We may be revisiting old themes, relationships and experiences that we felt we had processed and released. Now, they hauntingly return, requiring us to dive head on into the oceanic depths of emotional awareness.

Amidst this climate of swirling emotion and quiet softness, sudden change is afoot. Mars, Jupiter and Uranus are stirring the cauldron of our personal world as well as the world at large. The illusion is being shattered by this fiery trio. Courage is called upon as we face the unknown territory of three dimensional reality. The world we have known has become chaotic. Life is becoming stranger and thus a stranger unto us. As tectonic plates within the depths of the earth, the paradigm is shifting.

It is only by navigating our own interior with full awareness and personal responsibility that we can contribute authentic presence and mindful action to this ever changing and evolving earthly habitat. Despite all appearances, we are healing.

Emerging from the depths, we discover gold in the shadows. As we awaken to a society of dreams, we discover a soft tender spot wrapping ourselves and each other in love.

Pisces New Moon Blessings Upon You.

It is the belief in a power larger than myself and other than myself which allows me to venture into the unknown and even the unknowable. – Maya Angelou –

When we quit thinking primarily about ourselves
and our own self-preservation,
we undergo a truly heroic transformation of consciousness.
– Joseph Campbell –

One can give nothing whatever without giving oneself—that is to say, risking oneself. If one cannot risk oneself, then one is simply incapable of giving.
-James Baldwin-

www.cosmicconsultations.com

CANCER FULL MOON: MOTHERING THE SOUL

The Full Moon arrives at 22 degrees of Cancer on Thursday, January 12 at 6:33 AM EST.

Full Moons are often accompanied by an entourage of other planetary players who both color and influence the sign the Moon embodies. While the sign the Moon occupies imbues the collective mood with the qualities of that particular sign, other planets involved in formation with the Full Moon will stir up a great deal more than what the sign represents.

 This Full Moon is included within a dynamic and stressful aspect called The Grand Cardinal Square including the Sun, Jupiter, Uranus and Pluto. Thus, the deep, emotional and quiet sensitivity of Cancer will be ignited by the vitalizing qualities of these planets. In the midst of  Cancer’s quietude, there is an instinctive drive for self-expression, expansion, revolution and transformation. 

At this time, Cancer the Crab is stirring the deep cauldron of emotion wherein lies the magic potion for emotional awakening and the nurturing of our soul.

Cancer is a cardinal water sign ruled by the Moon. Therefore, this moon is right at home within its own rulership. The significant themes of this sign are emotions, tenderness, home, family, children, tradition, mothering, healing, connection and the nurturing of self and others. Cancer’s archetype is The Mother.

The natal Moon speaks to the manner in which we need to be nurtured, as well as the style in which we nurture others. Our distinct emotional needs will surface during this lunation. This fervent emergence could present a few surprises, some of which may even prove to be somewhat shocking.  During this time, the Cancerian emotion is fueled with intensity, power, rebellion and expansion; a recipe for extremism, both personally and collectively. The Full Moon Grand Cardinal Cross offers us potential and opportunity, acting as a catalyst for emotional breakthrough leading to proactive engagement with our inner and outer world.

Wherever Cancer resides in your natal chart is an area of heightened sensitivity, maternal instinct, tenderness and vulnerability. Tremendous feeling accompanies the house in which Cancer occupies. It is here that this Full Moon will fall. This is the territory where the Full Moon will illuminate that which has been hidden from emotional view. The sign that your natal Moon is in will instruct you as to how to nurture and fulfill your deepest needs through this emotionally challenged upcoming three days. For all of its complexity, there is profound opportunity for emotional awakening, healing and greater awareness of how we can nurture ourselves as spiritual beings.

Are you in need of emotional release? How can you express these emotions with both integrity and tenderness? How do you nurture yourself? How do you nurture others? In which areas of your life do you experience a natural maternal instinct? Do you recognize and honor the Divine Feminine? How can you fulfill your own real needs?  Are you mothering yourself? Are you mothering your own soul?

Cancer reminds us of  The Mother, both personal and divine. This may be a time in which you reflect upon your own mother and the ways in which she has become a part of you. Revelations of the maternal lineage may abound providing an empowering perspective accompanied by renewed love and respect for your origins.

We are primed for the eruption of the smoldering lava of our inner volcano.

No matter the appearance, all is love. There is nothing to fear.

Cancer Full Moon Blessings Upon You.

 

www.cosmicconsultations.com

 

 “The best and most beautiful things in the world cannot be seen or even touched. They must be felt with the heart” 
– Helen Keller –
“Your emotions are the slaves to your thoughts, and you are the slave to your emotions.” 
 – Elizabeth Gilbert –
“But feelings can’t be ignored, no matter how unjust or ungrateful they seem.”
Anne Frank

 

Sagittarius New Moon: The Road Less Traveled

The New Moon arrives at 7 degrees of Sagittarius on Tuesday, November 29 at 7:18 AM EST.

We are imbued each month with an auspicious time frame in which to begin anew in a specific realm of our interior being. When we activate this area, we begin to see changes in our immediate world as well. The new moon is a sacred portal, which upon entering can introduce us to a yet undiscovered dimension of the self. Each new moon offers a propitious juncture in which there is opportunity.

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Just before the new moon phase, we are in a completion phase known as the balsamic moon. We are integrating and synthesizing that which we began at the last new moon. These final three days of the moon phase are deeply psychic and interior oriented.  We are visited upon by ancient karmic issues. There can be a sense of exhaustion. Astrologers call this “the bottom of the moon.” We are best served by solitude, contemplation and rest. Our dreams may be more vivid during this time. When the new moon arrives, there is a distinctive shift in our energy. We are ready to begin anew.

At this juncture, Sagittarius the Archer is beckoning us to hear our truth. We are being called to follow our path, honor the nature of our truth and explore the unknown. We are at a crossroads.

Sagittarius embodies the archetypes of Gypsy, Student and Philosopher. They are the great seekers; high minded, idealistic and visionary. Sagittarius longs for journeying and exploration, both without and within. They will wander to the ends of the earth, to the brink of their psyche, in pursuit of greater meaning. There is tremendous restlessness accompanied by an inherent need for personal freedom.

As a mutable fire sign, there is enthusiasm, spontaneity, optimism, and buoyancy. Sagittarius thinks on a grand scale. Therein lies the wound of the Sagittarius spirit. For the idealist, life can often bear pain and discontent; there is no place on earth that can measure up to the visionary’s desire for utmost quality of life, where everyone is expressing from their most evolved state of being. Herein lies the breeding ground for intolerance, one of the most prominent characteristics of the Sagittarius shadow. As Sagittarius embodies the domain of belief systems, higher education, spirituality, religion and political ideologies, other aspects of the shadow express as arrogance, fanaticism, intolerance, opinionatedness and superiority.

Sagittarius has an inexorable desire for knowledge, persistently seeking to understand the laws of the universe amidst the struggle to be human.

These are strange times. We all feel it. The unfamiliarity of these times is being experienced not only in the outer world, but in our personal lives as well. In the midst of tremendous energetic transformation, there is often confusion and a sense of feeling lost. And yet, there is a strand of hope that leads us on. We are at the very core, spiritual beings.

We are striving toward understanding. We understand by standing under ourselves, beside ourselves, above ourselves.

In what area of your life are you longing for freedom? How can you cultivate freedom within your very being no matter what your circumstances are? Are you speaking your truth? Are you engaging with life beyond the physical realm? How can you engage more as an adventurer? What is your deepest longing? Where are you being called to break out of the familiar and travel a new path? Can you nurture tolerance and understanding for those whose opinions differ from your own? Where have you reached a real crossroads? Can you see yourself beyond this human existence?

I once heard an interview with one of the greatest pianists of the 20th century, Artur Rubinstein. He was and still is one of the most beloved concert pianists of all time. His playing was purely transcendental. Rubinstein spoke of his soul’s freedom. He expressed that he felt such freedom in his soul, that even if he were locked in a cell without a piano, he would always know his soul was a bird whose flight would never cease. While I was only in my teens at the time, he made an indelible impression upon my heart. It was the first time as a young performing artist in which I realized that the outer expression of our lives is completely reflective of what lies within. Rubinstein is always with me. I can still see his face as he spoke those words; a face entirely revealing that he was indeed, free. He has served as a quintessential instructor of inner freedom; the only freedom.

I wish you multitudes of Sagittarius blessings!

Dispel a belief. Design a personal quest. Entertain possibilities. Compose your own prayer. Set yourself free.

Launch a flaming winged arrow into the sky and follow it to it’s bull’s eye landing as it soars smack to the center of your heart’s desire.

As Tolkien said; “Those who wander are not lost.”  Let us also ponder that those who wonder are not confused.

“We are not human beings having a spiritual experience, but rather, we are spiritual beings having a human experience.”Pierre Teilhard de Chardin –

“Two roads diverged in a wood, and I – I took the one less traveled by, And that has made all the difference.”  – Robert Frost –

Donna Greco, astrologer

www.cosmicconsultations.com

412-422-4628

 

 

 

 

The New Moon arrives at 7 degrees of Scorpio on Sunday, October 30 at 1:38 PM EDT. 

During a New Moon cycle, the Moon and the Sun are aligned in the same sign. New Moons present a gift of subjective insight within a specific realm of our psyches, thus offering to us within this very realm a new beginning imbued with fresh awareness. As the Moon is hidden from view, this newborn perspective is deeply internalized. Unaffected by influences outside of the self, it is a time in which to trust oneself. New Moons offer some of the most intimate moments we can ever have with ourselves.

This begins a 29-day cycle in which we have opportunity to initiate growth in some realm of our being or particular area of our lives. It is a time in which heightened subjective awareness is more readily available to us. Seeds of nascent consciousness stir anew. We can watch the growth, fruition and completion of whatever we discover throughout the entire lunar cycle.phoenixnewmooninscorpio

At this juncture, Scorpio the Scorpion is inviting us to dive into the deep well of inner darkness, for it is within these depths of consciousness that transformation of the highest order awaits us.

Scorpio is a fixed water sign, ruled by Mars and Pluto. The qualities of death, depth, darkness, intensity, power, passion, faithfulness, bravery and focus are ever present to us as we embark upon the inner quest.

Wherever Scorpio resides in our natal chart is where we fully embody the darkness. It is an area of profound personal power. This realm of our deepest wounding offers tremendous opportunity for transformation within this lifetime. And yet, it can act as a blind spot that lives in exile from our greater wholeness. At this time we have the will,  the vision, the capacity and the courage to face our darkness, our human shadow: that which we deem unlovable.

This place is one in which we have perhaps neglected to inhabit. It is a realm of difficult psychic, emotional, psychological and spiritual matter. While it is an area of the psyche that we have neglected, for it can feel like just too much to face and feel, this very area of trepidation is powerful beyond measure. When these emotions are faced and felt, we rise from the ashes like the phoenix, a powerful mythological symbol closely aligned with Scorpio. We die in order to be born anew.

We may find ourselves undergoing deep alchemical processes whereby transformation, transmutation and transfiguration are means for transport from the uncomfortable inner complacency which has been longing for recognition and release. Herein, beneath the darkness, lies the true gold of our inherent nature, our divine essence; the purest and highest expression of the true self.

What areas of your life have reached a place of completion? Do you feel a kind of death to your old self? Can you release people, places and situations which no longer serve your highest good to the light? Where do you need to take a risk? How can you best recognize the dark emotions through the lens of love? Where are you meeting the shadow in the outer world and with whom? Can you behold your deepest wound as the source of your greatest gift?

As we celebrate the beauty of nature in her death cycle, let us celebrate the beauty of our nature.

The darkness is a sacred chamber.

New Scorpio Moon Blessings Upon You.

“Every moment of light and dark is a miracle. ” ~Walt Whitman ~

Darkness cannot drive out darkness; Only light can do that. Hate cannot drive out hate; Only Love can do that. ~ Martin Luther King ~

“I must also have a dark side if I am to be whole.” ~ Carl Jung ~

www.cosmicconsultations.com

412-422-4628

 

 

ARIES FULL MOON: BE THE CHANGE YOU WANT TO SEE

The Super Full Moon arrives at 23 degrees of Aries on Sunday, October 16 at 12:23 AM EDT.

A supermoon is a term coined in modern astrology to define an event in which a full moon or a new moon makes the closest approach to the Earth on its elliptical orbit. During such events, these already powerful lunation phases are intensified by the astrological themes which accompany them. As this Supermoon is forming a partnership with Uranus,  the passionate and volatile nature of Aries is accompanied by a fierce drive to break out of stagnated areas of our lives driving us to break through to a higher expression of our soul’s inherent authenticity.

ariesfullmoonAt this juncture, emotional momentum builds toward heightened states of feeling and visceral awareness. This particular moon is prickly to say the least, However, it is a lunation which will catapult us from our proverbial comfort zone into new and daring territory that has been longing for our unique inhabitance.

At the fore; anger, passion, intensity and anxiety are prime indicators that our world both personally and collectively is being shaken to the core. We are on the brink of leaving behind myriad aspects of the life we have intimately known. There is palpable electrifying anxiety. Our nervous systems are exhausted.

What is most needed at this time? Courage.

Aries the Ram dares us to recognize the places within us where we stand entirely alone. Along the way, we may encounter some turbulence and butt a few heads. This is a moon of the fierce inner warrior. We are the foot soldiers of our interior world as we meet the arduous territory of exterior life while the familiar ground of the current paradigm shifts incredulously before our eyes.

Aries is a cardinal fire sign, ruled by Mars. Courageous in nature, Aries instructs us in the areas of our lives where we need to act alone, thus affecting change that only we can bring about through the unique expression of our authentic selves.

Wherever Aries resides in your natal chart is where you embody the deepest sense of the existential dilemma.  It is where your most sensitive trigger points are regarding stimulus from others and the events of the outer world. This realm is where your optimal instinct resides. It is where the most heightened sense of the survival instinct emerges, where the fight or flight instinct acts out and where at the same time you embody deep levels of courage. It is a place of high energy, passion and consummate life force. Wherever Aries lives in you, is where you will meet the qualities of faith, optimism, daring, inspiration, excitement and pioneering.

Where in your life do you long for change? Are you being who you really are? Are you angry? From where has this anger originated?   How can you navigate this anger in a manner that does not hurt you or others, and yet ultimately allows for the provocation of the necessary changes you are striving to make? How can your own personal courage inspire, motivate and assist others as they face the fears of their own self-imposed limitations? What are your most inspiring characteristics?

Over the next 3 days, and especially tonight, the energy is high. Excitement is in the air. Ultimately, all change offers the potential for a positive shift in life direction.

This is a time of breakout, breakthrough and prolific self-expression. A new freedoms is upon us. It is time to draw the curtain and allow our light to shine forth.

Be brave.

Aries Full Moon Blessings Upon You.

www.cosmicconsultations.com

412-422-4628

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PISCES FULL MOON ECLIPSE: EMOTIONAL ILLUMINATION

The Full Moon Eclipse arrives at 24 degrees of Pisces on Friday, September 16 at 3:05 PM EDT.

At this time, a pinnacle moment of powerful and immense emotional depth is upon us in which we are imbued with heightened awareness and the ability to embrace irrevocable change. During a full moon cycle and most especially during a lunar eclipse, our psyches are primed for bringing into consciousness that which was hidden from view. We discover hard truths. This recognition paves the road to our expansion and evolution.

subcosmic-full-moon-pisces-september-2014-supermoon

Pisces the Fish is beckoning us to dive deeply within our emotional life. What appears as pain, complexity and turbulence is serving to awaken us. This is a moon of deep and intricate emotional healing.

Feelings abound. In order to heal, we must feel.  While intense emotion can seem overwhelming, it is paramount to find the time and space in which to feel and express our emotions, for this Moon is clearing out ancient emotional imagery which has only served to block us on our path to happiness and fulfillment. We emerge from a realm of fear to a place of faith. A new emotional milieu is on the horizon.

The self is comprised of multiple dimensions. No sign is better able to speak to this than Pisces, the quintessential sign of emotion, cosmic consciousness, multi-dimensional reality and spiritual expansion.

Pisces is a mutable water sign, ruled by Neptune. Oceanic in nature, Pisces encourages and inspires us to dive deeply into the sea of emotion.The qualities of compassion, empathy, sympathy, sensitivity, creativity and spirituality resonate for us. We are endowed with receptivity and the ability to see where grace shows up in our lives, where we enact grace upon others and where the magical threads of humanity weave an intricate pattern of perfection.

Wherever Pisces resides in your chart is where you are especially otherworldly. There is exquisite sensitivity and tenderness. It is an area of boundlessness. There may be uncertainty and confusion within this realm, for it is not a worldly realm. It is an area in which self-compassion is essential. This exact spot speaks to the nature and quality of our spiritual life. The full moon eclipse will illuminate this sector.

What area of your life is deserving of compassion? Are you treating yourself with kindness and sensitivity? Are you extending these qualities to others? Can you forgive yourself? Can you forgive another?  Do you need to express your feelings to yourself? Do you need to express your feelings to another? What is your relationship to God, The Divine, Source, Higher Power?

Pisces’ realm is quite mystical. Boundaries of time and space disappear as we commune with cosmic consciousness. When Pisces is about, we are called upon to dialogue with The Divine. Our hearts are more fully open at this time. We recognize our own vulnerability as well as the vulnerability of others. In essence, we resonate with the human condition while embracing ourselves as spiritual beings.

As Pisces has a proclivity for carrying the weight of the world’s sufferings, we are imbued with heightened sensitivity. The woes of the collective are most readily heard and felt at this juncture. Most challenging for Pisces is walking with an open heart, while not allowing oneself to become inundated with the sorrows of the planet.

Pisces reminds us that genuine compassion for self is paramount to walking compassionately in the world. By cultivating compassion for self and others we contribute peace and healing to humanity at large.

We are ready to heal. We are ready to evolve. It is time to lighten the load.

Pisces Full Moon Blessings Upon You.

www.cosmicconsultations.com

…we are luminous beings. We are perceivers. We are an awareness; we are not objects; we have no solidity. We are boundless.
– Don Juan Matus, quoted by Carlos Castaneda –

Mercury Retrograde: Life Goes On

desc_head_mercuryretrograde (1)

 

It seems that even for those who do not commune deeply with the language of astrology, Mercury retrograde cycles make a distinctive impression. During chaotic, confusing, disorganized and turbulent times, when there is no logical reason for the unexpected occurrences of one mishap after another, “Mercury’s retrograde!” is often the exasperated phrase upon the lips of those trying to make sense of it all. Mercury the Trickster is indeed recognized as the culprit.

Mercury turns retrograde on August 30, 2016 at 29 degrees Virgo. Mercury turns direct on September 22, 2016 at 14 degrees Virgo. The houses which embody these degrees in your natal chart will be significantly affected. The manifestation of Mercury’s influence is can be potentially challenging and enlightening.

Let us consider the definition of retrograde motion; retrograde is a “planetary condition characterized by an apparent backward motion through the sky.” This perceived backward movement is a result of Mercury slowing down in its elliptical orbit around the Sun. The Earth continues spinning on its axis, thus moving ahead of the slowed planet. Against the backdrop of other celestial bodies, a slowed planet appears to be moving in the opposite direction.

All of the planets have retrograde cycles throughout various times of the year. As each planet represents different realms of human consciousness and activity, these retrograde cycles will offer each it’s own unique instruction.

Either a planet is direct or retrograde. Particular points in time and space before the planet resumes either condition is referred to as stationary. Thus, when the planet stations, either before turning retrograde or turning direct, it offers an even more potently challenging effect upon us. For this reason, the allowance of several days before and after a Mercury retrograde cycle before refraining from or proceeding with matters at hand is advised.

The Mercury retrograde cycle occurs approximately 3 times per year, lasting 3-1/2 weeks in duration. There is no escaping Mercury’s unruly influence. However, embracing and understanding this challenging cycle rather than resisting and avoiding it, will facilitate a more benevolent experience, one which may even produce benefits.

Upon our awareness of accurate time frames for this cyclical event, we are given the proverbial heads up in anticipation of it’s arrival, thus allowing for the necessary emotional, mental and psychic preparation for our intended navigation. A Mercury retrograde cycle will proceed more smoothly if we abide by the essential Do’s and Don’ts that this challenging period of time demands. Via the astrologer, we have the distinct advantage to observe and outline the planetary cycles and their potential influence upon humankind.

There is ample information regarding the specific time lines of Mercury retrograde cycles. Take note of these and write them into your personal calendar. As you plan ahead throughout the year, pay specific attention to these intervals of time. Strive to work around them. Consider the necessary aspects of your life which may need particular attention. Strategic planning can greatly inhibit the encounter of obstacles upon the arrival of a retrograde cycle.

Mercury represents the distinctive way in which we think, learn and communicate. Also included within Mercury’s domain are written communication, language, study, appliances, travel, siblings, the immediate environment in which we live, contracts and agreements. These areas are more vulnerable to mishap and misunderstanding when Mercury is retrograde.

Our immediate impression and understanding of each encounter and experience resonates with Mercury’s particular activity. The way in which we assimilate these experiences will depend upon the nature and condition of Mercury’s influence. While planetary cycles will always affect us collectively, the direct experience of such a cycle will pertain to us individually as well. This of course depends upon which area of the natal chart it traverses.

As Mercury rules thought, the retrograde cycle creates an inverted intellectual function. While creative and abstract thought may flourish at this time, our capacity to reason regarding the more tangible and practical matters in life seems to elude us. We become clouded with confusion and frustration. As a result of this, misunderstandings, mistakes and misjudgments are more likely to occur.

Becoming knowledgeable of Mercury’s specific cycles and it’s areas of influence within your own nativity, offers more detailed assistance in planning ahead, setting the stage for the avoidance of such turmoil. There are distinct activities and engagements which must be avoided when possible. As we never have complete control over our lives, there are going to be times when one must forge ahead no matter what. After all, the world does go on during Mercury retrograde cycles. Knowledge of this time will at the very least, help us to become more mindful and attentive of our goings about. Keeping that in mind, let us see what we can avoid when possible, making the most of educated foresight.

The following is an inventory of what to avoid and where to proceed with caution while Mercury is Retrograde:

Signing of contracts
This includes areas of employment, business, mortgaging and real estate closings.

Elective surgery, diagnostic testing and dental work
If your condition is not critical, choose a time when Mercury is direct for optimal treatment and healing. Keep in mind that accidents and health crises can arise at any time. It is important to remain positive. Do not fear or neglect any necessary treatment. Consider the appearance of your condition as a gift, for sometimes during these cycles, hidden conditions come to light offering opportunity for bodily repair, healing and restoration.

Travel Planning
Traveling one way or another is necessary to daily life. It is the planning of an extended trip during these cycles which can lead to errors resulting in frustration and inconvenience later while travelling. Confirm and reconfirm travel reservations. Take note that there are more car accidents, airplane crashes, traffic jams, delays and inconveniences when traveling during retro cycles as well as in the day to day commute. Extra caution is warranted.

Beginning a new endeavor or venture
This includes jobs, relationships, projects, classes, diets and exercise plans etc. All matters in which the desired outcome is lasting would be best initiated during Mercury Direct.

The purchase of new or used vehicles, appliances and computers
The Lemon Law was invented for times like these; but who needs the hassle?

Computer maintenance
Back up your files and tend to other customary maintenance prior to the retro cycle. Avoidance of making any changes to the computer is also recommended; even if it is something that is quite basic.

Making and finalizing important decisions
Thorough consideration of such decisions during this time is beneficial. This is an opportune to in which to process. However, final decisions regarding important life matters are bound to backfire on you.

Conversations and confrontations
If something is on your mind regarding a loved one or co-worker, let it wait if at all possible. Take this time to process your thoughts and feelings, so that when the time is right you can proceed with clarity and sensitivity. When Mercury is direct, there are fewer occurrences of misunderstandings.

Household Maintenance
Do not install new electrical or plumbing systems, hire contractors, or initiate major home improvement projects. Make sure the stove is off, the iron is unplugged, the candle is out.

Pet Care
Mercury also rules small animals. Postpone spaying and neutering or other procedures that can afford waiting. Take extra care to make certain that your beloved pet is safe; gates fastened, leash secured, doors closed etc.

The following is an inventory of opportunities and positive engagement while Mercury is Retrograde:

Self-reflection, introspection and attunement
As the retro cycle lends itself to introversion, allowing greater access to the inner self, one has opportunity for sorting out matters and issues which may be difficult to sort out and balance under ordinary circumstances.

Journaling thoughts, feelings and plans
This is an excellent time in which to process your desires, intentions and plans, as more insight is afforded. When Mercury goes direct you can put those plans into action with greater awareness of details and thorough direction.

Slowing down and getting grounded
As everyone is struggling with disarray regarding one matter or another, we are highly susceptible to distraction which leads to accidents, mistakes and lost items. Take your time.

Attention to details
Check, double-check and triple-check as the necessary matters of everyday life are easily overlooked. Examples include blowing out the candle, locking the door, setting the alarm clock and turning off the stove. Overlooking small matters often has consequences.

Meditation
Mercury retrograde cycles are stressful. A sitting practice will facilitate relaxation and mindfulness.

Unfinished business
Incomplete tasks can include just about anything: cleaning out drawers, finishing a painting, editing an essay, revisiting a musical composition, reorganizing your address book.

Keep track of appointments
This is a time in which forgetfulness can take hold. Do not rely upon your memory for your daily schedule, particularly if you have a profession which keeps appointments. Remind clients of their scheduled times. Don’t take it personally if someone misses your lunch date!

Manage Banking Activity
Checks often bounce, deposits are not made etc. Make sure your financial records are accurate and in good order.

As Mercury rules Gemini and Virgo, these signs, particularly Gemini, are greatly affected by the retrograde cycle displaying heightened sensitivity and disorganization.

Those who are born with Mercury retrograde, often function at optimal levels during this time.

The gift of astrology is awareness. While we do not want to hide beneath the bed covers during the more turbulent planetary cycles, we can cooperate more consciously with them. When we befriend a challenge we grow and expand. Our lives flow more smoothly. We find that each challenge is an opportunity.