Sunday, September 6, 2009

Astro-Update! Mercury Retrograde & Pluto Direct! Week of 9/6/09

Hope this entry finds you well! This will be a fairly active astrological week. On Monday Mercury will start it’s Retrograde cycle. On Tuesday use caution with matters of the heart. Wednesday could have us feeling fuzzy. Thursday should be fairly mild with only Lunar transits occurring. Another big planetary shift will occur on Friday when Pluto will leave its Retrograde cycle and turn direct. Try to take the day off from work on Saturday when Saturn quincunxes Neptune. Have a great week!

I wanted to add a footnote to my entries. I include the time that a transit will be exact so that you can see when it waxes and then when it starts to wane. However, the effects are often felt sometimes even as long as a day or two. The energy is usually felt more strongly during the time leading up to the height and then it slowly starts to dissipate after. Keep in mind that Moon transits tend to last a shorter period of time than planetary transits.

(Sunday 8/9/09)- We start the day with the Moon in Aries making its monthly opposition with Mercury in Libra (exact at 10:00am EST). If you have been reading my Blog, you will know that tomorrow Mercury goes Retrograde. Mercury is now virtually motionless. You may find that you are not able to express yourself as easily or someone may cut you off from saying something. It will be hard to put your thoughts into words. This is a time where someone may oppose your thoughts or feelings. The key is to integrate the two (thoughts & emotions), although it may not be easy. Then, the Moon in Aries will form an uncomfortable square with Mars in Cancer (exact at 12:25pm). As with all Mars transits, I recommend doing something physical or exercising around this time (gardening, housework, working on the car, etc. all count!). Sexuality can be enhanced around this transit. Did you ever have a moment where circumstances seem like they are conspiring against you? Often, this transit results in a culmination of things that can be annoying. Sometimes small irritations or quarrels can result.

Lastly, Mars in Cancer sesquisquares Chiron (R) (the wounded healer) in Aquarius (exact at 5:51pm EST). Remember, this is a planetary transit and its effects will be felt much longer than a Moon transit. If channeled in a positive way, this could present a very real opportunity to heal old wounds. However, we may be so wrapped up in our own busyness that we hardly take the time to pay attention. This would be a disservice to your emotional well being, as these opportunities really present themselves. The short-term pain that may be experienced will just be part of the healing process.

(Monday 9/7/09)- Happy Labor Day! Just after midnight, the Moon in Aries forms a flowing trine with Venus in Leo (exact at 12:14am EST). Too bad this happens so late because the influence of this is quite pleasant. You could find your thoughts with friends or loved ones. It is possible to receive a compliment on how you look. Love, beauty, art, creativity, and aesthetics will be favored (and because of this reason, shopping too). Pamper yourself!

Well it is upon us, Mercury in Libra goes Retrograde at 12:45am EST). Usually Mercury (The God of Communication & Transportation) goes Retrograde for 3 weeks, 3 times per year. 2009 is going to be unusual because it will go Retrograde 4 times this year! This will be #3. This Retrograde period will start in the sign of Libra but on 9/17/09 will go back into the sign of Virgo. (Retrograde meaning: As all planets orbit around one another, they do so at different rates. Long ago Astronomers/Astrologers believed that the planets seemed to slow down and eventually reverse their orbit. This in fact, is an optical illusion caused by different orbit speeds, when viewed from Earth. This process is called a Retrograde in Astrology. In interpretation it means that the planet is somewhat weakened and the energies are harder to access).

We all feel the effects of this influence, but you will feel it more strongly if you are a Mercury-ruled person (Gemini & Virgo), if you have strong Libra placements in your chart, or if Mercury was Retrograde when you were born. Astrologically, this causes small things to happen that may be considered to be "bumps in the road". Mercury heavily influences technology (how we stay connected to others). So an example of this could be computers crashing, copiers breaking down or jamming, faxes not transmitting, etc. Communication is another thing affected by Mercury retrograde. It's a good idea during this time to save fax transmittal sheets, postal receipts, and documenting important conversations. Delays with travel can also occur because of miss-communications or breaking down of equipment (the crash of “Air France” 447 took place at the end of the last M.R. and the plane landing in the Hudson took place during the M.R. previous to that). Make sure you confirm all reservations and allow extra travel time. This is not a good time to start anything new or to sign contracts (like getting a loan, buying a house, buying a car, etc). This is a good time to strategize and do your homework on projects that you may be planning.

On the up side (yes, there is an upside) this is an excellent time for the following: re-uniting, re-organizing, re-establishing, re-arranging, re-financing, re-negotiating, etc. Are you noticing a pattern? I personally, look to these 3 weeks as a good time to get filling done, finishing up tasks that I have been putting off, tightening up details, etc. I look forward to this time because it's excellent for re-connecting with people in general. This seems to be a time when people you haven't heard from just call "out of the blue" or you may "randomly" run into someone while out shopping. You can see that in business, this would be an excellent time to follow-up with past customers or clients. Just remember, if you are in a relationship, try to be understanding with your lover if you have a miss-communication.......these things will happen with Mercury Retrograde, it's not the end of the world! Sometimes old flames will try to come back during this time. Which is fine, just remember an ex is an ex for a reason! In fact while Mercury is in Libra, the emphasis will be on relationships. When it goes into Virgo it will be on organization and health. We can all look forward to Mercury going "direct" again on Tuesday, Sept 29th at 9:13am EST.

Still overnight, the Moon in Aries will form an annoying quincunx with the Sun in Virgo (exact at 2:05am EST). It may be hard to feel supported around this time. Accomplishments may go unrecognized. It is possible to clash with someone younger than yourself (like a parent child relationship). Sometimes all of this planetary activity while we are trying to sleep, can make it difficult to get “shut eye”. Later in the morning, the Moon makes a positive sextile with Jupiter (R) in Aquarius (exact at 10:17am EST) helping us to feel optimistic and/or lucky. This is an ideal time to be with friends or to work with a group of people. It is also beneficial for spirituality/religion, high education, horses, law/legal matters, advertising, sales, and publishing.

In the evening, the Moon will form another annoying quincunx this time with Saturn in Virgo (exact at 6:50pm EST). It may be hard to complete everything on our “list” or to get organized. It’s also possible that our emotions could make it hard to work around this time. Luckily, this influence will be short… Lastly, the Moon in Aries will form a positive sextile to Neptune (R) in Aquarius (exact at 8:12pm EST) causing our imagination/creativity to soar. This transit is beneficial for imagination, creativity, daydreaming, idealism, intuition, romance, music, poetry, abstract ideas, mysticism, etc. It is possible to be more charming around this transit. Anyone have rose-colored glasses? This will begin a long void-of-course Moon cycle that will last until tomorrow morning when the Moon transitions into stable Taurus. When the Moon makes no major planetary aspects to another planet, before it switches into the next sign, is call “void of course”. It is best to not do anything new during these times because it has a decreased chance of working or will have delays.

(Tuesday 9/8/09)- I will be doing Astrological Readings at Spirit Dancer today between 2-5pm. This is a great opportunity to get an introductory reading from me at a discount ($25.00 per ½ hour). They are located at 125 S. Winooski Ave in Burlington, VT (across from the fire station). Walk-ins are welcome or you can call me for a time.

We start the day with the Moon transitioning into Taurus (exact at 6:17am EST). Positive Taurus Moon activities are: focusing on organizing your finances, clipping coupons, decorating, designing, sensuality, cooking & eating luscious foods, organizing your home, massage, singing, and comfort. Try to avoid: laziness, relaxing too much, stubbornness, obstinacy and being too stuck in your ways. These will be the lunar themes over the next 2 days. Then the Moon in Taurus will form a flowing trine to Pluto (R) in Capricorn (exact at 7:30am EST). This will greatly assist us in processing our emotions and is beneficial for all types of counseling & cathartic experiences. It will be hard to be superficial around this time. Both Taurus & Capricorn are earth signs, so this is a good time for gardening or connecting with nature.

In the afternoon, Venus in Leo will form a slightly uncomfortable sesquisquares with powerful Pluto (R) in Capricorn (exact at 1:53pm EST). Remember, this is a planetary transit and its effects will be felt much longer than a Moon transit. This one could bring love/passion up close and personal. It could take the form of sexual tension, teasing in the form of flirtation (remember those school days?), jealousy (an unhealthy form of passion), etc. Pluto brings intensity and there is a possibly of obsessing (or being too intense) about love/finances. Try not to engage in power struggles with our loved one or indulge in ultimatums (it would most likely blow up in our faces). We may be able to look below the surface and discover things about ourselves, others, or even our finances that we may have over-looked or not noticed previously. If the energies are harnessed properly, there could be true transformation in these areas. Then, the Moon will form an annoying quincunx to Mercury (R) in Libra (exact at 5:23pm EST) possibly causing blocks in communication. It may be nearly impossible to express ourselves. You ever had a time that you couldn’t put your thoughts into words? Later, the Moon will form a positive sextile with Mars in Cancer (exact at 10:38pm). As with all Mars transits, I recommend doing something physical or exercising around this time (the energy will need a constructive outlet). Sexuality can be enhanced around this transit. Our feelings will be in alignment with how we act. Make sure to put your actions toward positive pursuits!

(Wednesday 9/9/09)- In the afternoon, the Moon in Taurus will square Venus in Leo (exact at 12:47pm EST). Although we will have a drive to be with others around this time, it would be best to avoid heavy conversations pertaining to love. Sometimes the object of our affections is just out of reach (or otherwise detained) around this transit. The is not a good time to go shopping or work on beautification because what we think looks good now may seem like a bad idea at a later time. Just after, the Sun in Virgo will form a beautiful trine to the Moon in Taurus (exact at 1:25pm EST). This is beneficial for all kinds of relationships (especially with children) and assists in making us feel loved and supported. This is also an ideal time to be close to pets or nature. Very pleasant indeed!

Later, the Moon will make an annoying square with Jupiter (R) in Aquarius (exact at 4:35pm EST). Someone could challenge your beliefs at this time. It’s possible that you could find out someone within your group has been acting behind your back or is at odds with the greater good. Lastly, Mars in Cancer will form a slightly uncomfortable sesquisquare with nebulous Neptune (R) in Aquarius (exact at 6:24pm EST). Remember, this is a planetary transit and its effects will be felt much longer than a Moon transit. The energies of these two planets don’t normally blend easily. Mars is about fire and passion. Neptune is water and emotion. But blending them is exactly what is called for! Dancing, yoga, meditation, boating (in fact all water sports) are recommended around this time. We may feel fuzzy, dreamy, sluggish or unmotivated around this time. It’s best to focus on inspiration and creativity.

(Thursday 9/10/09)- We have another active evening as the Moon in Taurus will make a flowing trine to Saturn in Virgo (exact at 1:44am EST). This is a great time for organization, house cleaning, filing, recycling, and being disciplined. Also a good time to start a diet or health regimen (like quitting smoking). Sometimes others will ask for help around this transit, but it won’t be burdensome, we will be happy to help! Then the Moon will form an uncomfortable square with Neptune (R) in Aquarius (exact at 2:27am) telling us to not believe everything we are told. On the positive side, creativity will be high around this transit. This could cause disturbed dreams and/or sleep (possibly inspirational dreams). Next, the Moon will form a positive sextile with Uranus (R) in Pisces (exact at 3:17am EST) helping us to break out of our rut and even do something that may be somewhat unconventional. Technology (like computers), inventing, New Aged ideologies, and friendships are favored around this transit. This could cause disturbed dreams and/or sleep (possibly inspirational or vivid dreams). This will start a 9 hour void-of-course Moon cycle that will last until the Moon transitions into chatty Gemini. Use that time to finish old business and projects.

The Moon will transition into the communicative sign of Gemini (exact at 12:17pm EST). Good Gemini Moon activities are: communication (including talking, emailing, faxing, writing, etc), working with your hands, interaction with others (especially siblings and teachers), learning something new, diversified interests, mental agility, inquisitiveness, travel, and reading. Things to avoid are: fickleness, information overload, starting too many things & not being able to finish them, hyper activity, talking too much, and indecisiveness. These are all themes that will last the next 2 ½ days… Just after, the Moon in Gemini will make an annoying quincunx with powerful Pluto (R) in Capricorn (exact at 1:26pm EST). Certainly this can bring up jealousy issues, power struggles, hidden fears, and obsessions. This transit could cause frustrations on blending work and social time. Lastly, the Moon makes a flowing trine to Mercury (R) in Libra (exact at 9:50pm EST). This transit will assist us to express how we feel. It will be much easier to speak with friends and loved ones during this time. We may have an urge to be social around this transit and is highly beneficial for all kinds of relationships.

(Friday 9/11/09)- (Please take a moment to honor/acknowledge the victims and their families that lost their lives during the senseless 911 attacks).

Jupiter is the major planetary player today. Now is not the time to rely on luck. We may be overly optimistic or feeling expansive. Overnight, Venus in Leo will form its annual opposition with Jupiter (R) in Aquarius (exact at 3:54am EST). Remember, this is a planetary transit and its effects will be felt much longer than a Moon transit. We may feel like being social around this time, but there might be something getting in the way of joining the group. Avoid impulse buys around this time; it will cost you! You may have grandiose ideas about the direction of a love relationship. This would not be a beneficial time for trying to get a loan (especially for education) or legal matters. Now is the time to asses: What am I giving and what am I getting in return? Then the Sun in Virgo will quincunx Jupiter (R) in Aquarius (exact at 5:17am EST). Although we will feel sunny and optimistic around this time, use caution with over confidence. Again, it might not be good to work with groups around this time. There may be a hindrance pertaining to a friendship. Family and friends may be at odds right now.

Even though Mercury went Retrograde this week. The (dwarf) “planet”, Pluto in Capricorn going Direct today (exact at 12:57pm EST)!! Pluto is not a light-n-fluffy type of “planet”. Known as the Lord of the Underworld, Pluto (ruling “planet” of Scorpio) rules over: secrets, obsessions, adoption, power, transformation, forcefulness, intensity, restructuring, destruction, anarchy, sexual influences, and detective work. It’s associated with reproductive organs, rectum, obsessive behavior, prostate gland (root-chakra issues) and allergies. Pluto has been associated with Phoenix Rising, death/rebirth, etc. Powerful stuff! As you may remember, Pluto went into the sign of Capricorn at the end of November 2008 where it will reside for the next 24 years. Pluto also rules over world leadership on a global level (not just the US), terrorism, nuclear-atomic energy, and bankruptcy. Capricorn rules over business endeavors, establishment, and structures. Many CEO’s and heads of companies were affected by this transition along with many people facing bankruptcy/foreclosure. Retrogrades are a time for reflection. (Retrograde meaning: As all planets orbit around one another, they do so at different rates. Long ago Astronomers/Astrologers believed that the planets seemed to slow down and eventually reverse their orbit. This in fact, is an optical illusion caused by different orbit speeds, when viewed from Earth. This process is called a Retrograde in Astrology. In interpretation it means that the planet is somewhat weakened and the energies are harder to access.) We should now be able to make forward progress in these areas. It is a slow moving planet and it may take a week or two to get moving. Wherever Pluto falls within your chart, will show where the transformation will take place on a personal level. Just remember, this time of transition/reflection was necessary. I use the analogy of a forest fire, out of the destruction comes nutrient rich soil and new growth……

Much later in the day, the Moon will highlight the former Jupiter associations. This time it will be a little more positive. The Moon makes a flowing trine with Jupiter (R) in Aquarius (exact at 8:58pm EST) helping us to feel optimistic and/or lucky. This is an ideal time to be with friends or to work with groups of people. It is also beneficial for spirituality/religion, higher education, horses, law/legal matters, advertising, sales, and publishing. Later, the Sun in Virgo will form an uncomfortable square with the Moon in Gemini (exact at 10:16pm EST). So, toward the evening we may experience some tension between friends or loved ones. This won’t be conducive to feeling very supported. Sometimes this transit brings (minor) squabbles. This will be a rather mild and pleasant day astrologically speaking. Lastly, the Moon will form a positive sextile with Venus in Leo (exact at 10:43pm EST). It is likely that we could receive compliments on how we look or dress. It will be easy to interact with others. This transit is positive for both relationships/love and finances.

(Saturday 9/12/09)- Overnight, Mercury (R) in Libra will form a slightly uncomfortable sesquisquare with Venus in Leo (exact at 1:32am EST). Remember, this is a planetary transit and its effects will be felt much longer than a Moon transit. Artistic and social endeavors are favored. The only caveat could be a foot-in-mouth situation or uncomfortable silences. Your idea of what is beautiful might not be the same as your friend/partner. Your friend may actually love that bright orange shag carpeting! If you’re single, you could meet a slightly awkward yet intelligent & witty person. Have fun laughing with your partner!

In the morning the Moon will highlight a confusing quincunx between Saturn/Neptune that will occur later in the day. The Moon in Gemini will form an uncomfortable square with Saturn in Virgo (exact at 6:38am EST). Luckily the duration of this event is short. Sometimes this can give us a feeling of loneliness or isolation. We may feel passed over or possibly not getting the recognition that we deserve. It is better to work on organization around this time. Just after, the Moon will form a flowing trine to Neptune (R) in Aquarius (exact at 6:45am EST) causing our imagination/creativity to soar. This transit is beneficial for imagination, creativity, daydreaming, idealism, intuition, romance, music, poetry, abstract ideas, mysticism, etc. It is possible to be more charming around this transit. (I wouldn’t make a big decision around this time). Then, the Moon uncomfortably squares Uranus (R) in Pisces (exact at 7:30am EST). This is a time where someone around you may challenge tradition. You may also want to buck the system. An expected event or surprise could catch you off-guard. This could cause disturbed dreams and/or sleep. This will start a 9 hour void-of-course Moon cycle that will last until the Moon transitions into sensitive Cancer. Use that time to finish old business and projects.

The Moon transitions into Cancer (exact at 4:19pm EST). Good Cancer Moon activities are: anything to do with home and family, cooking, maternal/mothering, being emotional, crafts, sensitivity, empathy, finances, savings, and care-taking. Things to avoid are: holding grudges, feeling slighted (possibly with little or no cause), over sensitivity, emotional eating, stubbornness, and being grumpy. All of these themes will be highlighted over the next 2 ½ days. Later in the afternoon, the Moon will form its monthly opposition to Pluto (R) in Capricorn (exact at 5:27pm EST). This can signify a (short) period of intensity. Someone could challenge you in an area where you are sensitive. Another possibility is that you may spend too much time analyzing instead of acting. Avoid underhanded tactics because someone will be more apt to notice. Next, Saturn in Virgo will form an uncomfortable quincunx with nebulous Neptune (R) in Aquarius (exact at 6:58pm EST). Remember, this is a planetary transit and its effects will be felt much longer than a Moon transit. Quincunxes usually present themselves as a block or an obstacle. This is really a right brain vs. left brain moment. Saturn requires discipline, planning and organization. Neptune is abstract, creative, and ethereal. These two aren’t on the same page right now! We may feel inclined to get work accomplished, but have our head in the clouds. If you find yourself feeling fuzzy or disoriented, it would be best to take a break from work related activities and let your imagination soar. This would be a good time to enjoy a movie and forget about reality for a little while. Lastly, the Moon forms an uncomfortable square with Mercury (R) in Libra (exact at 11:41pm EST) possibly causing miscommunications. You may find that you are not able to express yourself as easily or someone may cut you off from saying something.

MARK YOUR CALENDARS! Next Tuesday (9/15) Saturn will oppose Uranus for the second time this year and Venus will oppose Neptune on the same day!

The above transits are often felt collectively but you would need to know where within your chart that they would fall. As always, I am available for a professional astrological reading. I now have a variety of charts to choose from (relationship, life path, time-line, etc). I can do readings in-person or over the phone. Or if you’re not into having a reading I can just supply a chart. Please feel free to contact me for more information! Have a great week! Bye for now……

Peace & Light,

Gretchen A. Hidell, Astrologer

Intuitive Counselor/Gem/Crystal Work

(802)-999-4677

DreamHomes@GretchenRealtor.net

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