Wednesday, March 30, 2011

Astro-Update! Mercury Retrograde in Aries! Week of 3/27/11

I hope this Blog entry finds you well! On Sunday Venus will move into Pisces where it can be romantic and dreamy over the next month. One of the toughest days this week will be on Monday when the Sun squares Pluto and Jupiter opposes Saturn. This could give us a heavy feeling and it may be hard to get motivated…to put it bluntly, people could be cranky. Unfortunately it is that time again; Mercury turns Retrograde on Wednesday in Aries. I am an Aries (with Mercury and Chiron also in Aries) and I started feeling this last week when my desktop computer crashed. To continue the Aries theme, both Mars and the Moon will move into this pioneering sign on Saturday. That will mean that 6 planets will now be in Aries! Whenever there is this much energy in one sign, it is best to concentrate on energies of the opposite sign…Libra. As we know, Libra is the scales, representing a need for BALANCE! 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: Aries 3/20-4/20

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

Mercury: Aries 3/9-5/15

Venus: Aquarius 3/1-3/27, Pisces 3/27-4/21

Mars: Pisces 2/22-4/2, Aries 4/2-5/11

Jupiter: Aries 1/22-6/4

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

Uranus: Aries 3/11/11-5/16/2018

Neptune: Aquarius until 4/4/11, Pisces 4/4/11-3/31/2025

Pluto: Capricorn until 1/20/24

Chiron: Pisces 2/8/11-4/18/2018

Current Retrograde Planets:

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

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

Coming up: Mercury turns Retrograde in Aries 3/30-4/23

Pluto turns Retrograde in Capricorn on 4/9/11-9/16/11

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 3/27/11)- Today will consist of mainly Moon transits. Keep in mind that Lunar transits are shorter in duration than planetary transits. The only exception is when Venus drifts into dreamy Pisces overnight. Just after midnight, the Moon in Capricorn will form an uncomfortable square with Jupiter in Aries (exact at 12:01am 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. Then, the Moon in Capricorn will form an uncomfortable square with Saturn (R) in Libra (exact at 1:04am 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 beautiful planet of Venus (ruling over love, beauty, romance, and finances) will transition into dreamy Pisces (exact at 2:53am EST). 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. Stones: Jade, Coral, Aquamarine, Bloodstone, Rock Crystal, and Sapphire. As far as love is concerned, we are moving away from a time of being friendship oriented and somewhat impersonal (Aquarius) to a time of being romantic and idealistic (Pisces). If you are single this is a time where you may find yourself drawn to a person that is artistic and romantic, but maybe a little bit of a drifter. If you get an invitation to go to an art gallery show or music event…say yes! If you are in a relationship, try to rekindle the romance and have a date-night! Maybe write your partner a poem or paint them a picture?!? This is certainly a great time to tap into your inner creativity in general. Venus also rules over finances..and well, Pisces’ unfortunately are not known for their financial discipline. Notice I didn’t say that they weren’t good with math? Albert Einstein was a very famous Piscean. He obviously excelled at abstract theories and that is a Piscean gift…. innate understanding of the intangible. They tend to (at least somewhat) live on an ethereal level. Venus will stay in this sign until 4/21/11 when it moves into Aries.

In the evening, the Moon in Capricorn forms an uncomfortable square with Mercury in Aries (exact at 7:00pm 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. Lastly, the Moon in Capricorn will form a positive sextile with Mars in Pisces (exact at 11:17pm 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! This will also start a 7+ hour void-of-course Moon cycle that will last until the Moon transitions into unique Aquarius tomorrow. 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.

(Monday 3/28/11)- In the early morning, the Moon will transition into Aquarius (exact at 7:00am EST). Activities that are favored during Moon in Aquarius are: social endeavors, friendship, technology, humanitarian efforts, politics, inventing, and New Age ideologies. Things to avoid: are getting too caught up in the greater good and masses that you forget the individual & their feelings, and being overly fixed in your own unique way of doing things that you can’t consider someone else’s good ideas. endeavors, creativity, and be in the company of loved ones. Then, the Sun in Aries will form an uncomfortable square with transformative Pluto in Capricorn (exact at 8:13am EST). Remember, this is a planetary transit and its effects will be felt much longer than a Moon transit. Power, power, power…did I say power? This one will draw power struggles to us like a magnet. If someone wants to fight, don’t bite…just walk away. They can’t fight with themselves! I would avoid heavy discussions, confrontations, especially if you know things could get heated. It may be hard to balance relationship and work obligations. There may be a boss (or someone in authority) that is making things difficult right now. Just remember, fair play is what is important. There is a way to diplomatically explain things without cutting to the bone. Then, the Moon in Aquarius will form a positive sextile with Uranus in Aries (exact at 8:50am 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.

In the evening, Jupiter in Aries will form a stressful opposition with Saturn (R) in Libra (exact at 5:55pm EST). Remember, this is a planetary transit and its effects will be felt much longer than a Moon transit. These are the two giants of our solar system, and they aren’t on the same page right now. This is also a big planetary event that is tying into the larger “Cardinal Climax”, which also involves the Saturn/Uranus opposition and the Saturn/Pluto square. The height of this event will occur three times: 5/23/10, 8/16/10, and March 29th 2011. This cycle occurs every 20 years. The last time this event occurred was 1989-1991 (it actually came to exactitude 5 times during that period). Expansion and contraction! Optimism and pessimism! Radical and traditional! Feel like you are being pulled in two directions? You are not alone! Jupiter is optimism and the future and Saturn is the past, foundations, & long term goals. I think that the tearing down of the Berlin Wall was a great example of what can occur during this phase. We may hear about issues pertaining to banking/finance, housing/construction, foreign affairs/policies, justice/law, teaching and education around this time (more than the usual). Like the last time this event took place and the student democratic revolution in China occurred resulting in the Tiananmen Square killings. It will be very difficult to do goal setting right now or to have forward motion. Use positive thinking and keep a smile on your face if a few speed bumps appear right now. Any delays may be fortuitous. This opposition will bring about change. If you are the type of person that is flexible and rolls with changes, then this period won’t be as traumatic as it would be if you have the opposite personality traits. Keep your sights set on the large picture (Jupiter) but Saturn will remind you not to forget the details either. We will be working toward BALANCE…especially as we experience this opposition in for the 3rd and final time during this cycle. Lastly, the Moon in Aquarius will positively sextile the Sun in Aries (exact at 10:52pm 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?

(Tuesday 3/29/11)- I will be doing Astrological Readings at Spirit Dancer today between 3-6pm (I take my last reading at 5:30pm). *Please note the time change* 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.

In the late morning, the Moon in Aquarius will make a flowing trine to Saturn (R) in Libra (exact at 11:12am EST). This is a great time for organization, house cleaning, filing, recycling, and being disciplined. This is also beneficial for starting 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 assist! Just after, the Moon in Aquarius makes a positive sextile with Jupiter in Aries (exact at 11:40am 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, higher or continuing education, horses, law/legal matters, advertising, sales, and publishing.

In the evening, Venus in Pisces will form a stressful opposition with Chiron in Pisces (exact at 7:15pm EST). Remember, all of these are planetary transits and their effects will be felt much longer than a Moon transit. This could bring up past pains & past loves. Use this time to heal old wounds. This will be beneficial for artistic endeavors (especially if you have strayed from doing them for a while).

(Wednesday 3/30/11)- Early in the day, the Moon in Aquarius will form a positive sextile to Mercury in Pisces (exact at 7:16am 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.

Mercury in Aries goes Retrograde (exact at 4:48pm EST). Mercury (The God of Communication & Transportation) goes Retrograde for 3 weeks, 3 times per year. In 2011 the cycle will occur in all of the Fire Signs…Aries, Leo, and Sagittarius. (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 Aries or Libra (by opposition) 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). 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-connecting, 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 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. Which is fine; just remember an ex is an ex for a reason! While Mercury is in Aries, the emphasis will be on leadership, managing, independence, motivation, anger-issues, and speaking up too quickly. See Blog entry from 3/9/11 to read more about Mercury in Aries. We can all look forward to Mercury going "Direct" again on Saturday April 23rd at 6:04am EST.

Then, the Moon makes its monthly conjunction with Neptune both in Aquarius (exact at 6:21pm 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. Because idealism & escapism can be enhanced with this transit, I wouldn’t make a big decisions or sign contracts around this time. This will also start a very short void-of-course Moon cycle that will last until the Moon transitions into dreamy Pisces (exact at 6:38pm EST). Activities that are favored during Moon in Pisces: creativity, intuition, spiritual aspirations, higher consciousness, connection with feelings, counseling, music, art, photography, nature and especially being near water, and charitable work. Things to avoid are: getting so caught up in others feeling that you put your aside, excessive escapism, and acting like a martyr. These are all themes that will last the next 2 ½ days. Lastly, Jupiter in Aries will form a slightly annoying semisquare with Neptune both in Aquarius (exact at 8:41pm EST). Remember, this is a planetary transit and its effects will be felt much longer than a Moon transit. This is a favorable time to explore different cultures and religions. We would do well working with a group for a greater cause that is bigger than ourselves. This transit is about self-sacrifice and service to others. Use caution with putting friends or an organization up on a pedestal. You know what happens when they fall!? The late, great astrologer Linda Goodman used to say: “Aim straight, shoot higher than man can see-past the stars-to the place all dreams were really born”.

(Thursday 3/31/11)- “Eve of Fools” Event for the Lund Family Center. I will be doing mini-Astrology readings at this fundraising event from 7-9pm for Vermont’s oldest and largest private non-profit adoption agency. http://lundfamilycenter.org/eveoffools.html

Overnight, the Moon forms its monthly conjunction with Chiron both in Pisces (exact at 1:18am EST). You may be presented with an opportunity to heal or to be healed. Holistic and alternative medicine is especially favored. Serendipitous moments abound! Then, the Moon will conjunct Venus both in Pisces (exact at 4:29am 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 Sometimes this transit can have us feeling a little indolent; it is actually a favored time for finances. Next, the Moon in Pisces will form a positive sextile with Pluto Capricorn (exact at 9:44am) helping us to connect with what is going on under the surface. During this time it would be beneficial for: cathartic experiences, deep conversations, and all forms of counseling are favored during this transit. This will also start a very LONG void-of-course Moon cycle that will last until the Moon transitions into pioneering Aries on Friday. This is an unusually long void-of-course cycle!

Lastly, the Moon in Pisces will form an annoying quincunx with Saturn (R) in Libra (exact at 8:00pm 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…

(Friday 4/1/11)- April Fool’s Day! It is the ability to take a joke, not make one, that proves you have a sense of humor.” ~Max Eastman

This is no joke! There are no astrological transits today. This day will be under the influence of the Pisces Moon. The Moon is also in an unusually long void-of-course cycle until tomorrow. This day may have a dreamy quality. You may find yourself looking at the clock often only to realize that 5 minutes went by…

(Saturday 4/2/11)- Mars (the God of War) will transition into adventurous Aries (exact at 12:51am EST). Mars influences our actions, expression of anger, aggression, ego (both in and out of power), energy, courage, confidence, self-reliance, boldness, violence, destructiveness, cruelty, and often dictates the type of person that we will be sexually attracted to. Its medical associations are: red blood cells, tolerance for pain, muscular energy, inflammation, and fevers. Mars is like our engine…it makes us go, go, go! Aries is the 1st sign of the zodiac and is ruled by Mars (the God of War). Some words/ phrases to describe Aries are: “I AM!”, Cardinal/Fire, passionate, head strong, adventurous, honest (often blunt), independent, enthusiastic, dynamic, selfish, courageous, energetic, enthusiastic, and easily bored. It rules over the head, face (not the nose), brain, eyes, upper jaw, fevers & inflammation. The metal is Iron. Stones: Amethyst, Diamond, and Bloodstone. There are now 5 planets in the sign of Aries and shortly the Moon will be entering this sign also. When it comes to our actions, we are moving away from a time of dreamy idealism (Pisces) and into a time of self-starting energy (Aries). Aries is known for being able to start many things, but isn’t great at finishing. Try to exorcise patience (it will be hard). There will be a strong desire to start new projects (just remember that Mercury is Retrograde right now)! People will be straightforward and direct around this time (maybe even a little blunt). This would be a great time to put a fresh spin on an old, outdated method. You may find people being a little too demanding and bossy right now (“take no prisoners”!). We may find ourselves moving a little faster (literally), so careful with speeding and fast moving vehicles. If you have been reading my Blog, you will know that Mars energy needs to get out one way or another. This may be why Aries tend to be athletic and have trouble sitting still. I won’t sugar coat this; a bored or unhappy Aries can be quite grumpy. This would be a great time to start a new exercise regime, start physical therapy, or buy a piece of exercise equipment. Make sure you invest in a good protective helmet (remember Aries rules the head area). Over the next two months, we may be more: adventurous, competitive, gallant, physical, and daring. On the down-side, Aries are known for their tempers! We could hear of an increase in fires, explosions, acts of aggression (either coming from or towards) leadership, war, or even possible attacks on US soil. Just look at what happened when Uranus entered Aries on March 11th…the day of Japan’s earthquake and nuclear crisis. This is a very passionate (Fire) sign and sometimes it can bring out unhealthy forms of passion and intensity. Mars will be in this sign until 5/11 when it transitions into stable Taurus!

A few hours later, the Moon transitions into pioneering Aries. Aries Moons are similar to New Moons (actually the New Moon will be in Aries tomorrow!). It is considered to be a favorable time to start new projects, physical activities (like sports or working out), dynamism, leadership, competition, and action. Things to avoid are being too bossy, arrogant, and insensitive during the next 2 1/2 days. Aries rules the head, so pay attention to stress; especially of you are prone to tension headaches. Just after, the Moon will form its monthly conjunction with Mars both in Aries (exact at 7:43am 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. Then, Venus in Pisces will form a positive sextile with powerful Pluto in Capricorn (exact at 8:30am EST). Remember, this is a planetary transit and its effects will be felt much longer than a Moon transit. This is power in love, pure and simple. This transit will actually be beneficial with both love and finances. If the energies are harnessed properly, there could be true transformation in these areas. The only caveat is possibly obsessing (or being too intense) about love/sex/finances. As Pluto, even when positively aspected, is still prone to having a dark side. Next, the Moon will form its monthly conjunction with Uranus both in Aries (exact at 9:45am EST). The Uranus connection can bring us unexpected inspiration/ideas & can enhance clairvoyance & channeling. This can highlight technology, electricity, inventing, and unexpected events.

Later, the Moon in Aries will square intense Pluto in Capricorn (exact at 10:46pm 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.

Mark your calendars! Next week: New Moon on Monday 4/3, Neptune moves into Pisces on 4/4, Pluto turns Retrograde on Sat 4/9.

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, via Skype, FaceTime on the Iphone, 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, Reiki Master, Gem & Crystal Work

NLP & Hypnotherapy Life Coach

Non-Denominational Ordained Minister & Certified Spiritual Healer

(802)-999-4677

DreamHomes@GretchenRealtor.net

No comments:

Post a Comment