Astro-Update! Saturn Retrograde! Week of 1/23/11

I hope this week’s blog entry finds you well! This is the week of Saturn! Saturn turns Retrograde this week and both Venus & Mercury aspect it during the week. Time to work on keeping commitments, building foundations, and goal setting! Take things slow and work methodically now. This is not a good time to skim over things or to be in a rush. Remember the story of the tortoise and the hare? Well, this week is about being the tortoise. Working alone is favored right now. So if you feel inclined to take some time for yourself, go ahead and do it…you have the planets blessings!

From now until the first two weeks of February, I will be featured on a local public TV show being interviewed by Gwendolyn Evans about astrology. It will be airing: Wednesdays 11AM, Thursdays 9PM & Saturdays 8:30 AM. This show airs on the Comcast Cable network, Chanel 15, in the Greater Burlington & Vergennes areas (and just was added to Colchester). Gwendolyn Evans does Spiritual Counseling, Intuitive Readings & Reiki Healing and you can check her out at website: www.lovingself.net or her Blog: www.gwendolynscauldron.wordpress.com

The 13^th Sign? Your Astrological sign changed? I feel the need to re-run this in case anyone missed my Blog entry from last week: I have to start right out of the gate talking about the 13^th Sign and how there was a news story two weeks ago stating that everyone’s astrological sign changed. I just want to go on record as saying it is NOT true! Western Astrologers use the Tropical Zodiac (which is the most common type of astrology that people use in the US) which is based on the cycles of the Sun and seasons. Western astrologers don’t use constellations; therefore our system would not be affected. The only astrological system that may be affected is a type of Hindu Astrology called sidereal. It is interesting because this “new” information is actually 2000 years old but because of the viral nature of the internet, the story got way more publicity than expected (and deserved). I spent all last week texting, emailing, and taking calls from clients and friends that had questions. I am actually very excited that this many people are talking Astrology right now and that this has inspired some towards self-reflection (for instance: am I more like Gemini or Cancer?). For your convenience I included a link for you to check out: http://www.tarot.com/articles/astrology/wrong-sign-and-ophiuchus-the-13th-zodiac-sign?code=fb-tarot There is space at the bottom of this blog to post a comment & create dialogue. I would be happy to answer questions. So, if you were an Aries last week, the good news is that you still are an Aries!

Current Planetary Positions:

Please reference the Blog entry on the date the planet went into that sign for an explanation.

Sun: Aquarius 1/20-2/18

Moon: Changes signs (approximately) every 2 ½ days.

Mercury: Capricorn 1/13-2/3

Venus: Sagittarius 1/7-2/4

Mars: Aquarius 1/15-2/22

Jupiter: Aries 1/22-6/4

Saturn: Libra 7/21/10-10/6/12

Uranus: Pisces 8/13/10-3/11/11

Neptune: Aquarius until 4/4/11

Pluto: Capricorn until 1/20/24

Chiron: Aquarius until 2/8/11

Current Retrograde Planets:

Please reference the Blog entry on the date the planet went Retrograde for an explanation.

Saturn turns Retrograde in Libra 1/26/11-6/12/11

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 1/23/11)- In the afternoon, Venus in Sagittarius positively sextiles Saturn in Libra (exact at 2:19pm 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. 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 your partner to discuss long-term goals. If you are single and meet someone during this transit, the new romance may have promise of being long-term. This will also be a beneficial day to: start a new beauty regimen, connect with nature, cook, and/or do work around the house! Then, the Moon in Virgo forms an annoying quincunx with Neptune in Aquarius (exact at 2:49pm 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. Next, the Moon in Virgo will make its monthly opposition to Uranus in Pisces (exact at 3:08pm EST). This is not an ideal time to break from the tried and true. Even with the best of intentions to stick with details & organization, an outside event may steer you in a different direction. This will start a 3+ hour void-of-course Moon cycle that will last until the Moon transitions into relationship-oriented Libra. 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. Just after, the Moon in Virgo forms an annoying quincunx with Chiron in Aquarius (exact at 5:17pm 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. The Moon transitions into relationship-oriented Libra (exact at 6:59pm EST). Activities that are favorable during a Libra Moon are: fairness, beauty (did I say beauty?), partnerships, joint enterprise, aesthetics, harmony, graciousness, cooperation, justice, peace, and romance. Things to avoid are: indecision, dependence, fickle, and lying (to avoid confrontation). Libras make great judges and counselors because they are often able to see both sides. Its physical associations are: the kidneys, lumbar area of the back, buttocks, and adrenal glands. All of these themes will be accentuated during the next 2 ½ days. The Moon in Libra makes a stressful opposition with Jupiter in Aries (exact at 7:22pm EST). Sometimes this can zap our self-confidence. Conversely, we could also feel a little too confident and over state our abilities (possibly over promising). Just remember you won’t always feel this way and there are only so many hours in a day….it is OK to say no! Lastly, Mercury in Sagittarius will form a slightly uncomfortable semisquare with the “Wounded Healer” Chiron in Aquarius (exact at 10:11pm EST). Remember, this is a planetary transit and its effects will be felt much longer than a Moon transit. Past memories may come flooding in around this time. Reminiscing? Forgiveness (or the need to forgive) often accompanies this transit. This can increase sensitivity, so please choose your words carefully.

(Monday 1/24/11)- Today will consist of Moon transits. Keep in mind that Lunar transits are shorter in duration than planetary transits. Overnight, the Sun in Aquarius will form a beautiful trine to the Moon in Libra (exact at 1:25am 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, the Moon in Libra will square intense Pluto in Capricorn (exact at 5:07am EST) possibly throwing a speed bump in our path. Someone could know how to push our buttons and really get under our skin. It is important to have good boundaries with others and remember not to overstep yours. Just after, the Moon in Libra forms a flowing trine with Mars in Aquarius (exact at 5:59am EST). Our actions will be in harmony with how we feel. We may crave action around this time or have more energy. People will be inclined to fight for what they believe is right.

Later in the day, the Moon in Libra forms an uncomfortable square with Mercury in Sagittarius (exact at 8:19pm 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. Then, the Moon conjuncts Saturn both in Libra (exact at 11:36pm EST). This is an all work no play transit. Best to concentrate on: work, organization, gardening/planting (connecting with nature in general especially soil, woods, & forest), and details. This would also be an ideal time to start a new health or exercise regime.

(Tuesday 1/25/11)- 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-$30 ½ hr. 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.

Another day of Moon transits. Keep in mind that Lunar transits are shorter in duration than planetary transits. Overnight, the Moon in Libra will form a positive sextile with Venus in Sagittarius (exact at 2:22am 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.

Later, the Moon in Libra will form a flowing trine to Neptune in Aquarius (exact at 5:04pm 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. (I wouldn’t make a big decision around this time). This will also be the beginning of a 4+ hour void of course cycle that will last until the Moon transitions into passionate Scorpio Moon later today. Just after, the Moon in Libra forms an annoying quincunx with Uranus in Pisces (exact at 5:23pm 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. Then, the Moon in Libra will form a flowing trine with (the “Wounded Healer”) Chiron in Aquarius (exact at 7:43pm 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 intense Scorpio (exact at 9:15pm EST). Favorable Scorpio Moon activities are: anything related to research, occult, detective work, self-discovery, digging below the surface (both figural & literal), passion, mysteries, secrets, etc. Things that are not favored or exacerbated during the Moon in Scorpio are: jealousy, anger, intensity, and surgery (it can delay healing time). These will be themes over the next 2 ½ days. Later, the Moon in Scorpio will quincunx Jupiter in Aries (exact at 10:20pm 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!

(Wednesday 1/26/11)- Welcome to the day of Saturn! Saturn turns Retrograde today ending our peaceful 3+ weeks of no planets going Retrograde. Then Mercury will square Saturn possibly causing communication issues especially with authority figures. The Moon will highlight Pluto while squaring Mars and the Sun (also bringing tensions and power struggles). Whenever there is this much cosmic activity, try to stay grounded.

Well, it is that time again! Saturn in Libra turns Retrograde (exact at 1:10am EST)!! Saturn is the planet that rules: obstacles, delays, long-term goal setting, hard work, discipline, responsibility, father or authority figures, Karma, life lessons and building foundations. Saturn is the “ruling” planet of Capricorn, which also influences: knees, teeth, falls, chronic health problems (like arthritis), and the skeleton. While Saturn can create many obstacles, frustrations, and delays it can also bless us with great rewards (usually after much hard work). (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). Saturn is a slow moving planet. It is in each sign for an average of 2 ½ years and is generally Retrograde for almost ½ of the year (140 days to be exact). Retrograde periods are a time of reflection and often present a time where lessons appear that we are supposed to learn from. A lot of our lessons will revolve around relationships and partnerships. Now is the time to examine; are we selfish, do we really know the true meaning of being a partner, do our relationships satisfy our needs, etc. People may be seeking more permanence in their relationships. Unfortunately this may also be a time where folks may call it quits in their relationships. There may be resurgence in reconciliations and/or the use of counselors, arbitrators & mediators will be increased. Speaking of the justice system (btw, the Tarot card association for Libra is Justice), I feel that there may some sweeping changes to laws under this influence. Our democratic system may come under scrutiny during this time. Whatever is not working during this time will leave our lives. Whatever is meant to stay will go through some sort of process (usually in the form of a test) and come out stronger than it was before. Remember the key word for Libra is BALANCE, and many of us will be tested on that level. If your life is out of balance and has been for a while, this may come to a breaking point during this time. If you don’t find a way to resolve this in a positive, constructive manner, than Saturn will provide the way (and it most likely won’t be the way you desired)….so it is best to address this issue ASAP! In order to know how this will affect you on a more personal level, you will need to know where in your birth chart Saturn/Libra falls. Saturn then turns direct 6/12/11.

In the early morning, Mercury in Sagittarius forms an uncomfortable square with Saturn in Libra (exact at 4:58am EST). Remember, this is a planetary transit and its effects will be felt much longer than a Moon transit. This will not be a good time for communication or travel. There may be delays or obstacles with both. It is possible to experience solidarity. Stick with the facts if you need to communicate. Don’t try to tackle too many things around this transit. A slow and steady approach is called for. Focus on one thing at a time, otherwise there is a good chance mistakes will be made or it will need to be done over anyway. It may be possible that we are slower than normal in learning something (people with learning disabilities may have trouble around this time). Then, the Moon in Scorpio will make a supportive sextile to Pluto in Capricorn (exact at 7:57am EST). This will be a favorable time to look below the surface and have in-depth conversations or counseling. This is a time that we could be feeling passionate or intense. This transit will amplify the Scorpio Lunar traits. Simultaneously, the Sun in Aquarius will form an uncomfortable square with the Moon in Scorpio (exact at 7:57am EST). 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. In the late morning, the Moon in Scorpio will form an uncomfortable square with Mars in Aquarius (exact at 11:48am EST). 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. The reminder of the day will be under the influence of the Scorpio Moon…

(Thursday 1/27/11)- I would love to schedule an appointment with you! I am able to rent a private room for Astrology Readings, Reiki Sessions, Life Coaching or Hypnosis at Candles & Creations. They are now located at 132 Church St in Burlington VT. I am working there by appointment, so please give me a call to schedule!! Check out their link: http://www.candlesandcreations.net

Then, between 6:30-8:30pm, they will be hosting their monthly Sixth Sensory World Meeting. These meetings are based on the teachings of Sonia Choquette. Her link: http://soniachoquette.com Come and “play” with your intuition!

Today will consist of three (pleasant) Moon transits. Keep in mind that Lunar transits are shorter in duration than planetary transits. In the early morning, the Moon in Scorpio will form a positive sextile to Mercury in Sagittarius (exact at 5:50am 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 Scorpio forms an uncomfortable square with Neptune in Aquarius (exact at 9:39pm) telling us to not believe everything we are told. Illusion, escapism and deception will be prevalent. On the positive side, creativity will be high around this transit. Then, the Moon in Scorpio will form a flowing trine with Uranus in Pisces (exact at 10:01pm EST) helping us to step up to the plate and do the right thing, even though it may be somewhat unconventional. We could get sudden revelations or ideas, so write them down! Technology (like computers), inventing, New Age ideologies, and friendships are favored around this transit. This will also be the beginning of a 3+ hour void of course cycle that will last until the Moon transitions into adventurous Sagittarius Moon tomorrow…

(Friday 1/28/11)- Today will consist of three (pleasant) Moon transits. Keep in mind that Lunar transits are shorter in duration than planetary transits. The Moon in Scorpio forms an uncomfortable (minor) square with Chiron in Aquarius (exact at 12:32am EST). Past issues may resurface at this time. It may be possible to run into someone that will tell you how to do something (even if they have never done it themselves….annoying!). The Moon transitions into adventurous Sagittarius (exact at 1:55am EST). It is said in Astrology that the Lunar transition between Scorpio and Sagittarius is the most stressful of all the Moon transition. So use caution around this time and allow for (minor) setbacks. Activities that are favored during Moon in Sagittarius are: sports, horseback riding, outdoors/nature, spiritual aspirations, higher consciousness, honesty/bluntness, law/legal, higher learning, education, travel (especially international), and getting out to meet people. It is best to avoid taking too strong of a stance and not being open to others opinions, as people will usually defend their beliefs rigorously at this time. These themes will be prevalent for the next 2 ½ days. Then, the Moon in Sagittarius makes a flowing trine with Jupiter in Aries (exact at 3:48am 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.

Next, the Moon in Sagittarius will positively sextile the Sun in Aquarius (exact at 5:35pm 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? Later in the day, the Moon in Sagittarius will form a positive sextile with Mars in Aquarius (exact at 8:34pm EST). 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!

(Saturday 1/29/11)- In the morning, the Moon in Sagittarius will form a positive sextile to Saturn (R) in Libra (exact at 9:17am 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.

Later, the Moon will conjunct Venus both in Sagittarius (exact at 10:18am EST). We will want to experience love on a visceral level. This is a great time to: pamper ourselves, decorate, shop (because we will have an “eye” for things that look good), artistic endeavors, creativity, and be in the company of loved ones. Sometimes this transit can have us feeling a little indolent; it is actually a favored time for finances.

Mark your calendars! Next week: New Moon in Aquarius Wed 2/2, Mercury moves into Aquarius Thurs 2/3, and Venus enters Capricorn on Friday 2/4.

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, over the phone, or via Skype. 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, Reiki Master, Gem/Crystal Work

NLP (Neuro-Linguistic Practitioner) Hypnotherapy Life Coach

#(802)-999-4677

DreamHomes@GretchenRealtor.net