Hope this Blog entry finds you well! On Sunday, Mercury will be turning retrograde in the sign of Taurus for 3 weeks. The Sun will also aspect Neptune giving us a fuzziness (not a great day to make big decisions). On Monday the Sun will be forming a difficult aspect with Saturn, time to concentrate on self-discipline. Helping to ground us, will be the Sun entering Taurus on Tuesday. However, Chiron will move into the sign of Pisces on Tuesday possibly bringing up old wounds. Chiron hasn’t been in this sign since the 1960’s! Wednesday and Thursday will mainly consist of Moon Transits, with Thursday being the quietest day of the week. Friday will be a very active astrological day with Venus aspecting both Neptune (idealism) & Uranus (change & the unexpected)...I suspect if you have been idealizing someone or something, things may come crashing down around this time. You see, Venus is actually highlighting the Saturn/Uranus square that will be coming into exactitude again on 4/26. This may have us questioning the structure of our relationships on Saturday when Venus aspects Saturn. Have a great week!
Current Planetary Positions:
Please reference the Blog entry on the date the planet went into that sign for an explanation.
Sun: Taurus 4/20-5/20
Moon: Changes signs (approximately) every 2 ½ days.
Mercury: Taurus 4/2-6/9
Venus: Taurus 3/31-4/25, Gemini 4/25-5/19
Mars: Leo until 6/7
Saturn: Virgo 4/7-7/21
Jupiter: Pisces until 6/6
Uranus: Pisces until 5/27
Neptune: Aquarius until 4/4/11
Pluto: Capricorn until 1/20/24
Chiron: Will go into Pisces 4/20-7/20, then back into Aquarius until 2/8/11
Current Retrograde Planets:
Please reference the Blog entry on the date the planet went Retrograde for an explanation.
Mercury Retrograde in Taurus 4/18/10-5/11/10
Saturn in Libra 1/13/10-5/30/10
Pluto in Capricorn 4/6/10-9/13/10
Coming up: Neptune Retrograde 5/3-11/7, Chiron 6/4-11/5
Did you ever feel like the energy in your home is stagnant? Some of you may or may not know that I have had an interest in energetic-space clearing of homes and businesses (and have been doing Space Clearings for some time now). I have also been studying feng shui for the last few years and just became a Reiki Master recently. After selling Real Estate for the last 9 years now (and being intuitive and sensitive to energies), I feel this is a natural and logical next step. I will come to your home or business and perform a ritual/blessing to clear away the negative energy. I try to schedule it during a time that is in alignment with beneficial planetary aspects/lunar phases. I am adding this as an additional service that I can offer to my Vermont clients and my rate is $60 per hour (the time depends on the size of the structure). There may be an additional fee for travel time depending on your location. Feel free to call or email me with questions! Namaste!
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 (or longer). 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 4/18/10)- Today may be a bit confusing; between Mercury turning Retrograde and the Sun aspecting nebulous Neptune. These two are not exactly conducive to clear thinking. If at all possible try to keep things light and try to avoid heavy decision making. Today favors right-brain activities like imagination, film, creativity, music, etc.
Well it is here, Mercury in Taurus turns Retrograde just after midnight (exact at 12:06am EST). Usually Mercury (The God of Communication & Transportation) goes Retrograde for 3 weeks, 3 times per year. 2009-2010 are unusual because it will go Retrograde 4 times this year! This will be the 1st full Retrograde cycle. We actually started 2010 with Mercury Retrograde. (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 Eart
h. 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 Taurus 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 miscommunications or breaking down of equipment. 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). If you absolutely need to sign something important during this phase, take the time to re-read the document and pay attention to the fine print. 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 had a friend jokingly say that she was going to re-lax in her re-cliner with a glass of re-d wine!) 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 miscommunication.......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. This is fine; just remember an ex is an ex for a reason! While Mercury is in Taurus, the emphasis will be on beauty, comfort, wealth, patience, material possessions, reliability, greed, practicality, and stubbornness. We can all look forward to Mercury going "Direct" again on Tuesday, May 11th at 6:27pm. (Remember the planets don’t just stop and change direction with 100% speed, we will feel the effects lingering of this a few days before the start of Retrograde and after it turns Direct again).
Early in the morning, the Sun in Aries will form a positive sextile with nebulous Neptune in Aquarius (exact at 4:16am EST). Remember, this is a planetary transit and its effects will be felt much longer than a Moon transit. All aspects of music, film, arts, creativity, abstract thought, dreaminess, intuition, escapism, and idealism will be highlighted. This is a good time to follow your gut feelings, as intuition will be high. We might be more introspective and contemplative. Serendipitous moments abound! Being near water may be soothing and regenerative. We may suddenly feel attracted (romantically) to a friend or a friendship could become a more spiritual connection. We may have trouble getting out of bed this morning!
In the afternoon, the Moon in Gemini will form an uncomfortable square with Jupiter in Pisces (exact at 4:11pm 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. Dealings with groups of people or legal matters are unfavorable around this time.
(Monday 4/19/10)- There will be a lot of planetary activity overnight! If you are a Moon sensitive person, you may have trouble sleeping or have a very active dream state tonight. It starts with the Moon in Gemini forming a flowing trine to Neptune in Aquarius (exact at 4:31am EST) causing our imagination/creativity to soar. This transit is also beneficial for daydreaming, idealism, intuition, romance, music, poetry, abstract ideas, mysticism, etc. It is possible to be more charming (or to meet charming people) around this transit. If you are sleeping while this event occurs, it may be possible to have prophetic or “visitation” dreams around this time. Then, the Moon in Gemini uncomfortably squares Uranus in Pisces (exact at 4:49am EST). This is a time where someone around you may challenge tradition. You may also want to buck the system. An unexpected event or surprise could catch you off-guard. It is possible to experience issues with technology or mechanical issues. This could cause disturbed dreams and/or sleep (possibly inspirational or vivid dreams). Just after, the Sun in Aries will quincunx Saturn (R) in Virgo (exact at 5:06am EST). Remember, this is a planetary transit and its effects will be felt much longer than a Moon transit. Quincunxes often present themselves with obstacles or delays. We may find it very hard to get anything accomplished during this time. Possibly making us feel rundown and lethargic. Ugh, not a great way to start Monday morning! The Moon will go onto highlight the Sun/Saturn quincunx when the Moon in Gemini will form an uncomfortable square with Saturn (R) in Virgo (exact at 6:15am 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. The Moon in Gemini will positively sextile the Sun in Aries (exact at 6:21am EST). This is an ideal time to be with friends & loved ones. This transit is conducive for feeling supported. Maybe it’s time to do something nice for your sweetheart? This will begin a short 1+ hour void-of-course Moon cycle that will last until the Moon transitions into domestic Cancer. 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. Then, the Moon in Gemini will form a (minor) flowing trine with (the “Wounded Healer”) Chiron in Aquarius (exact at 7:36am EST). You may be presented with an opportunity to heal or to be healed. Holistic and alternative medicine is especially favored. Serendipitous moments abound! The Moon will transition into Cancer (exact at 7:39am 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. Wow, that was a lot of planetary activity before 8am!!
Later, the Moon in Cancer will form its monthly opposition to Pluto in Capricorn (exact at 5:05pm 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.
(Tuesday 4/20/10)- I will be doing Astrological Readings at Spirit Dancer today between 2-5pm (I take my last reading at 5pm). This is a great opportunity to get an introductory reading from me at a discount. 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. The store’s number is #802-660-8060.
Just after midnight, the Sun in Aries forms a flowing sextile with Chiron (the Wounded Healer) in Aquarius (exact at 12:24am EST). Remember, this is a planetary transit and its effects will be felt much longer than a Moon transit. This is a great time to heal past hurts (especially with siblings and friends). We will be feeling positive about the future. Even if you have been feeling down lately, there will be a light at the end of the tunnel. 
Just after, the Sun will shift into stable Taurus (exact at 12:30am EST). Happy Birthday Taurus!! Now the Sun, Mercury, and Venus are in Taurus (symbol is the Bull). Words and phrases to describe Taurus are: “I Have!”, Fixed/Earthy, reliability, stubbornness, possessions, determination, slow and steady progress, possessiveness, (sometimes) laziness but usually hard-working, pleasure, tactile, good/rich food, aesthetics, physical, sensual, and prosperous. Its physical associations are the ears, throat, lower jaw, neck, and thyroid gland. The metal is Copper. Stones: Emerald, Sapphire, Amber, Rose Quartz, Turquoise, and Azurite. We are moving away from a time of bold, impetuous behavior (Aries) and moving into a time where we will be more thorough and steady (Taurus). Over the next month we should be concentrating on spending time finishing all of the projects that we started when the Sun was in Aries. Not to mention, Mercury is also Retrograde in the sign of Taurus. The ruling planet of Taurus is Venus and is associated with beauty and luxury. Taurus’ tend to work hard and play hard. This sign is associated with rich food, luscious fabrics, and comfortable lifestyles. Yes, Taurus’ have a need to look good, but aren’t ones to wear itchy sweaters or tight shoes…they need to feel good too! Taurus is also associated with wealth and material possessions. Not that all Taurus’ are wealthy, but they usually have a good degree of knowing how to budget and to stretch the dollar. Now is a good time to get your finances in order and to determine what possessions you value. You know the rule, if you haven’t touched it in one year; it’s time to donate it to the Good Will! I can’t write about Taurus and not mention the notorious trait that this sign has…stubbornness! Over the next month try to avoid opposition, “just because”. Make sure we pick and choose our battles. Discern what is important to you and let go of the rest. Some famous Taurus are: George Clooney, Jay Leno, Renee Zellweger, Salvador Dali, Stevie Wonder, Carol Burnett, Florence Nightingale, Billy Joel, Shirley MacLaine, Al Pacino, Willie Nelson, Stevie Wonder, Bono, Cher, James Brown, Sigmund Freud, Pierce Brosnan, Debra Winger, Robert Browning, David Beckham, Chow Yun-Fat, Jack Nicholson, Daniel Day-Lewis, William Shakespeare, Janet Jackson, Jerry Seinfeld, Uma Thurman, Katherine Hepburn, Kelly Clarkson, Dennis Rodman, Cate Blanchett, George Lucas. Barbra Streisand, Fred Astaire, Pope John Paul II, and Charles Mingus. The Sun will remain in Taurus until May 20th when it will transition into Gemini.
Also overnight, Chiron (a “planetoid”) will enter the sign of Pisces (exact at 2:58am EST). Chiron is often called “the Wounded Healer”. Words and phrases to describe Pisces are: “I Believe!”, dreamy, idealistic, caring, sympathetic, creative, artistic, tender, sensitive, drifter, psychic, impressionable, escapism, and charitable. Neptune is the ruling planet and it’s associated with feet, veins, fluids, lymphatic system, & glands. Its metal is Tin. Stones: Jade, Coral, Aquamarine, Bloodstone, Rock Crystal, and Sapphire. This “planetoid” is slow moving and the last time it was in the sign of Pisces was 1960-1969 (it is in each sign for roughly 9 years). In astrology, Chiron is associated with healing, medicine, the mind/body/spirit connection, teaching, reoccurring problems in our life, and music. Looking back to the 1960’s can give us a small glimpse as to what to expect from Chiron’s energy. Interestingly the Saturn/Uranus opposition (will be coming to exactitude again on 4/26) last occurred in the mid 1960’s (which we are currently in the middle of). Civil rights, drastic changes in society, casual sex & the development of the birth control pill, drugs (yes, Pisces escapism tendencies), musical revolution, “Make Love Not War” (Pisces idealism & dreaminess), several important assassinations took place in America (John F. Kennedy, Martin Luther King, Malcom X to name a few), feminism, space exploration (isn’t Obama pushing for that now?), etc. Ironically, 1960 was the Valdivia Chilean earthquake which is to date the most powerful earthquake ever recorded (9.5) that also caused few tsunami’s. Although the Saturn/Uranus opposition is more about moving and shaking, Chiron is about healing on a deep soul level. It will be interesting to see what will happen over the next 9 years as Chiron un-covers and then heals old wounds. I am personally hoping that there will be important medical discoveries and treatments during this time (like the 1st heart transplant surgery in 1967). After the big financial crisis, housing market tumble, and Middle Eastern wars; we certainly have a lot of wounds to heal! Chiron will only be in the sign of Pisces until 7/20/10, then will return to Aquarius because if being in a Retrograde cycle.
Then, the Moon in Cancer will form a positive sextile to Mercury (R) in Taurus (exact at 5:19am EST). This will make us want to reach out to friends and family to chat. This transit helps with the flow of communication. It will be easier to express how we feel around this transit.
Later, the Moon in Cancer makes a flowing trine with Jupiter in Pisces (exact at 9:29pm 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.
(Wednesday 4/21/10)- There will be lots of Moon transits today. Four out of the seven may be difficult. Just remember that Lunar transits are shorter in duration than planetary transits. Overnight, the Moon in Cancer will form a positive sextile with Venus in Taurus (exact at 3:33am 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. The Moon in Cancer forms an annoying quincunx with Neptune in Aquarius (exact at 8:44am EST). Neptune’s influence can cause us to be fuzzy and idealistic. It is therefore, not an ideal time to make bold moves and big decisions. It is possible that we may have trouble accessing our intuition around this time. If sleeping, it would be possible to have prophetic dreams. Then, the Moon in Cancer will form a flowing trine with Uranus in Pisces (exact at 9:08am EST) helping us to step up to the plate and do the right thing, even though it may be somewhat unconventional. We could get a sudden revelation or idea, so write them down! 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). Next, the Moon in Cancer will form a positive sextile to Saturn (R) in Virgo (exact at 10:07am EST). Time to tap into our inner discipline, goal setting, organization and attention to details. We may want to make long term plans in our close relationships. This will start a 1+ hour long void-of-course Moon cycle that will last until the Moon transitions into dramatic Leo. The Moon will transition into Leo (exact at 11:42am EST). Good activities to do when the Moon is in Leo are: anything to do with performing or theater, seeing a show, dressing up & looking nice, managing, feeling proud, entrepreneurial endeavors, gambling, playing games, routing for the underdog and taking care of children. Things to avoid are being too bossy, acting egotistical, and going over the top. All of these themes will be highlighted over the next 2 ½ days. The Moon in Leo forms an annoying quincunx with Chiron in Pisces (exact at 11:49am EST). Past issues may resurface at this time. It may be hard to forgive & forget around this time. Remember that forgiveness gives you peace within yourself and is not necessarily for the other person.
In the afternoon, the Sun in Taurus will form an uncomfortable square with the Moon in Leo (exact at 2:20pm EST). So, toward the afternoon, 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. Lastly, the Moon in Leo will make an annoying quincunx with powerful Pluto in Capricorn (exact at 8:51pm EST).Certainly this can bring up jealousy issues, power struggles, hidden fears, and obsessions. It is best to keep things a little superficial. This transit could cause frustrations on blending work and family time (especially if you have children).
(Thursday 4/22/10)- Happy Earth Day!! There will be only two Lunar transits today and the remainder of the day will be under the influence of the Leo Moon. Don’t forget that Lunar transits are shorter in duration than planetary ones. Overnight, the Moon will form its monthly conjunction with Mars both in Leo (exact at 3:18am EST). As with most Mars transits, I usually will recommend some form of physical exercise (yes, that includes gardening, working on the car, housework, etc.). This can increase physical vitality & health (and passion too). It is important to properly channel the excess energy; otherwise arguments and nitpicking could result. Of course it may be difficult to have this extra energy while you are sleeping! The Moon in Leo forms an uncomfortable square with Mercury (R) in Taurus (exact at 7:43am 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.
(Friday 4/23/10)- It starts with the Moon in Leo forming an annoying quincunx Jupiter in Pisces (exact at 1:18am EST). This is a time where you could feel disconnected from the group. Someone could challenge your beliefs around this time. Our optimism or self-confidence may be a little low. This is not a time to rely on luck. Don’t worry, this will be temporary! Then, the Moon in Leo will square Venus in Taurus (exact at 11:11am 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. Next, the Moon in Leo will form its monthly opposition with Neptune in Aquarius (exact at 11:35am EST) causing our imagination/creativity to soar. I wouldn’t make a big decision around this time. Especially since this will also enhance escapism (people with drug or alcohol issues will have trouble around this transit). This will start a 3 hour long void-of-course Moon cycle that will last until the Moon transitions into service-oriented Virgo.
In the afternoon, the Moon in Leo forms an annoying quincunx with Uranus in Pisces (exact at 12:05pm 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. The Moon will transition into detail-oriented Virgo (exact at 2:24pm). Good Virgo Moon activities are: organization, being detail-oriented, service to others, health improvement, intellectual pursuits, practicality, research, and really anything that requires precision. Things to avoid are: being overly perfectionistic, excessive worry, analysis paralysis, criticism, and being too caught up in the details that we can’t see the forest through the trees. All of these themes will be prominent in the next 2 1/2 days… Then, the Moon in Virgo forms its monthly opposition with Chiron in Pisces (exact at 2:40pm EST). Past issues may resurface at this time. It may be hard to forgive & forget around this time. Remember that forgiveness gives you peace within yourself and is not necessarily for the other person. 
Then, Venus in Taurus will form an uncomfortable square with Neptune in Aquarius (exact at 3:54pm EST). Idealism, love, & escapism all rolled up into one big rose-colored package! It is possible to meet charming people (or to be charming ourselves) around this time so, wait until another day before serious declarations of love or before signing on the dotted line (hopefully you have the day off)! Creativity, music, art, films, etc. will be favored. It is possible this could make us a little dreamy, sleepy, or fuzzy around this time. People with drug or alcohol issues could experience some issues. Next, the Sun in Taurus will form a beautiful trine to the Moon in Virgo (exact at (8:39pm 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! Then, Venus in Taurus will form a positive sextile to Uranus Pisces (exact at 10:06pm EST). Remember, all of these are planetary transits and their effects will be felt much longer than a Moon transit. Routine is so boring! Desire for independence and freedom. Looking for your muse? If you are single and looking for someone that is different from the usual types, then go out tonight! You might be up for anything that is progressive and new. Strange and unusual artwork or music may catch your attention. If you are in a relationship, take a break from your rut. Do something exciting with your partner! The Moon in Virgo will form a flowing trine to Pluto in Capricorn (exact at 11:19pm 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 Virgo & Capricorn are earth signs, so this is a good time for gardening or connecting with nature.
(Saturday 4/24/10)- Overnight, Venus in Taurus will form a flowing trine with Saturn (R) in Virgo (exact at 3:44am EST). Remember, this is a planetary transit and its effects will be felt much longer than a Moon transit. Discipline and organization are required. This transit will be permeated by seriousness. This probably won’t be a time of busy social activities. But the invites that you do get, will most likely be from your oldest and dearest friends. If you are willing to put in the hard work around this time, you have the will to accomplish a lot! Any delays that are experienced will be for the better (but you might not feel that way at the time). This is an auspicious time for finances, business endeavors, strategizing, etc. This may be a good time to sit down with the boss (or with someone with authority over you) to hammer out long-term goals. They will appreciate your proactive attitude, which may benefit you financially. It is best to acquiesce since folks are prone to digging in their heels. This is a beneficial time to make a deeper commitment in a relationship (love or business relationship). Work on building foundations! Then, the Moon in Virgo makes a flowing trine to Mercury (R) Taurus (exact at 8:27am 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.
Mark your calendars! The Saturn/Uranus square will be coming to exactitude again on Mon 4/26 and the Full Moon in Scorpio will be on Wed 4/28!!
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
No comments:
Post a Comment