As you may have seen from my other Blog entries, Mars (currently Retrograde) will be residing for an extended-stay in the sign of Virgo until July. Usually, Mars is only in each sign for 2-2 ½ months. It is interesting to me because, there has been an intestinal virus/stomach flu going around and spreading like wildfire. This has even been affecting cruise ships that had to dock and be disinfected due to the spread of the norovirus! Mars does influence inflammation and Virgo rules over the intestines and digestion. I also have several personal friends & acquaintances that are having flare-ups of their colitis and IBS issues. I was wondering if this was going to occur when Mars was in Virgo?! I would love to hear feedback from you, and you can leave comments at the bottom of the blog entry. I hope you enjoy your week!
My Schedule:
Monday & Thursdays – Phone/Skype. Intuitive Astrology Readings, Life Coaching, Hypnosis, & Remote Reiki Sessions.
Tuesdays & (1-Saturday Per Month) – Introductory Astrology Readings at Spirit Dancer 125 S. Winooski Ave in Burlington, VT.
Wednesday & Fridays – Intuitive Astrology Readings, Life Coaching, Hypnosis, & Reiki Sessions at 161 North Street in Burlington, VT. I have appointments between 2-7pm, so please give me a call to schedule. It is a two-story white house and there is ample parking in the back.
Current Planetary Positions:
Please reference the Blog entry on the date the planet went into that sign for an explanation.
Sun: Pisces 2/19-3/20
Moon: Changes signs (approximately) every 2 ½ days.
Mercury: Aries 3/2-3/23, Pisces 3/23-4/16
Venus: Taurus 3/5-4/3
Mars: Virgo 11/10-7/4/12
Jupiter: Taurus 6/4/11-6/12/12
Saturn: Libra 7/21/10-10/6/12
Uranus: Aries 3/11/11-5/16/2018
Neptune: Pisces 2/3/12-3/31/25
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.
Mars Retrograde in Virgo 1/23/12-4/13/12
Saturn Retrograde in Libra 2/7/12-6/25/12
Coming up: Mercury Retrograde in Aries 3/12/12-4/4/12
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 3/11/12)- Daylight Saving Time Begins (Spring Forward!) 
Today will be a busy astrological day (like much of this week). There will be 8 Moon transits; 4 out of the 8 Moon transits will be pleasant. Watch for intensity when the Moon slips into Scorpio. Just after midnight, the Moon transitions into Scorpio (exact at 12:24am 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. Then, the Moon in Scorpio will form a flowing trine to Neptune in Pisces (exact at 3:38am 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. Next, the Moon in Scorpio forms an annoying quincunx with Uranus in Aries (exact at 7:31am 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. This could cause disturbed dreams and/or sleep (possibly inspirational or vivid dreams). Then, the Moon in Scorpio will form a flowing trine with (the “Wounded Healer”) Chiron in Pisces (exact at 11:34am EST). You may be presented with an opportunity to heal or to be healed. Holistic and alternative medicine is especially favored. Serendipitous moments abound!
In the afternoon, the Moon in Scorpio will form an annoying quincunx to Mercury in Aries (exact at 12:28pm 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? Just after, the Moon in Scorpio forms its monthly opposition to Venus in Taurus (exact at 12:31pm EST). It’s not good to shop or decorate during this transit. Someone could offend your sense of good taste! Our feelings could be at odds with love relationships right now. Then, the Moon in Scorpio makes a stressful opposition with Jupiter in Taurus (exact at 4:13pm 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! Next, the Moon in Scorpio will make a supportive sextile to Pluto in Capricorn (exact at 4:38pm 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. Lastly, the Moon in Scorpio will form a positive sextile with Mars (R) in Virgo (exact at 6:33pm 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!
(Monday 3/12/12)- Overnight, Mercury in Aries turns Retrograde (exact at 3:46am EST). Usually Mercury (The God of Communication & Transportation) goes Retrograde for 3 weeks, 3 times per year. Mercury will only be in the sign of Aries for 11 days before returning to the sign of Pisces. (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 will 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 Gemini/Virgo/Aries/Pisces 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, cell phone issues, 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 close attention to the fine print. This is an auspicious 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-connecting, 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, finish 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 Aries, the emphasis will be on physical activities (like sports or working out), dynamism, leadership, competition, and action. We can all look forward to Mercury going "Direct" again on Wednesday April 4th at 6:11am EST. (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). Remember, Mercury will transition backwards into dreamy Pisces on 3/12/12.
In the afternoon, the Sun in Pisces will form a beautiful trine to the Moon in Scorpio (exact at 2:30pm 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! This will also be the beginning of a long 12+ hour void of course cycle that will last until the Moon transitions into adventurous Sagittarius 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.
(Tuesday 3/13/12)- I will be doing Astrological Readings at Spirit Dancer today between 3-6pm (I take my last reading at 5:30pm). 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.
Today will be the beginning of a Grand Earth Trine that will involve for planets: Venus, Mars, Jupiter, and Pluto. Astrologers are saying that this may be the most beneficial time during 2012. There will be lot of astrological energy over the next few days! This positive planetary alignment may even last throughout the weekend. Please feel free to watch the YouTube video that I posted to get a more in-depth description of these planetary energies…..
After midnight, Jupiter in Taurus will form a positive trine with Pluto in Capricorn (exact at 12:43am EST). Remember, this is a planetary transit and its effects will be felt much longer than a Moon transit. (The effect of this may be felt up to a week.) Power in beliefs! Now is the time to have faith and inspire others. There can be a lot of power in words…especially if you are selling something. You may find yourself being very influential. Travel and international dealings will be favored. Be honest in your dealings, otherwise you may get “called out”. This is not a good time for underhanded tactics. In fact, if there has been something going on under the surface, now is a great time to bring it out into the daylight. This could be a good time for financial dealings (only again, keep it honest….otherwise you could be facing a very big, public, downfall). This is a good time to ask yourself…What are my beliefs? Am I open minded? Did I base my opinions on what someone else said/wrote? Is there another way to look at my position? Of course, the downside to all of this is that we could encounter fanatical beliefs, opinions, or religious convictions around this time. As with all Pluto transits, great transformation can take place…so harness these energies for the positive! Then, the Moon transitions into adventurous Sagittarius (exact at 2:54am EST). It is said in Astrology that the Lunar transition between Scorpio and Sagittarius is the most stressful of all the Moon transitions. 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. Next, the Moon in Sagittarius forms an uncomfortable square with Neptune in Pisces (exact at 5:19am) 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. 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 Sagittarius will form a flowing trine with Uranus in Aries (exact at 9:25am 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 could cause disturbed dreams and/or sleep (possibly inspirational or vivid dreams).
In the afternoon, the Moon in Sagittarius forms an uncomfortable square with Chiron in Pisces (exact at 1:38pm 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!). Next, the Moon in Sagittarius makes a flowing trine to Mercury (R) in Aries (exact at 2:09pm 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 it is highly beneficial for all kinds of relationships. Then, the Moon in Sagittarius will form an annoying quincunx with Venus in Taurus (exact at 6:30pm EST) possibly causing a monkey wrench in the love department. It could be that the object of our affections is somewhat inaccessible around time…. unfortunately the same could be true with our finances too! Double-check your bank account before making a big purchase. Just after, the Moon in Sagittarius will quincunx Jupiter in Taurus (exact at 6:58pm 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 Sagittarius will form an uncomfortable square with Mars (R) in Virgo (exact at 7:23pm 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. Lastly, Venus in Taurus will form a flowing trine with powerful Pluto in Capricorn (exact at 9:27pm EST). Remember, this is a planetary transit and its effects will be felt much longer than a Moon transit. Trines are harmonious, with no opposing energies. This is power in love, pure and simple. This will 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/finances. As Pluto, even when positively aspected, is still prone to having a dark side.
(Wednesday 3/14/12)- Today will be the bulk of the Grand Earth Trine transits. Please reference yesterday's description and also the YouTube video entry for more complete description of these energies. I will be listing them individually so you can get a breakdown of exactly what is happening and when it is happening. Added to the mix, the Moon will be in the optimistic sign of Sagittarius. Even though all of these astrological energies are very positive we may be inclined to bite off more than we can chew around this time and in the days to come we may need to rein back in some of that energy.
It starts overnight when, lovely Venus conjuncts lucky Jupiter both in Taurus (exact at 1:54am EST). Remember, all of these are planetary transits and their effects will be felt much longer than a Moon transit. This is one of the most beneficial transits; make sure you utilize its energy! This will be beneficial for group gatherings and social events. If I were a betting woman (which I am); this would be a good time to buy a lottery ticket. (Sorry, but I am not responsible for any losses nor am I condoning gambling-LOL). Venus transits also encourage us to: get outside & be close to nature, beauty, music, and the arts. This is also a great time for publishing, law/legal matters, religious pursuits, large animals (especially horses), marketing, and sales. Then, Venus in Taurus will form a beautiful trine with Mars (R) in Virgo (exact at 3:27am EST). Remember, this is a planetary transit and its effects will be felt much longer than a Moon transit. Wow, Venus the planet of love meets up with the planet Mars that influences physicality and sexuality! Needless to say we may be feeling friskier around this time! We will enjoy being social, so get out and enjoy the day! We will want to act on our feelings around this time. I always advise doing some sort of physical activity whenever Mars is involved because Mars’ energy will want to get out one way or another. This is also a good time to look within and find your “heart’s desire” whether that be a person, vocation, hobby or otherwise. Next, Mars (R) in Virgo will form a beautiful flowing trine to optimistic Jupiter in Taurus (exact at 5:51am EST). Remember, this is a planetary transit and its effects will be felt much longer than a Moon transit. Physical energy should be high today. This is a beneficial transit for any type of physical activity, exercise, physical therapy, and (especially) group sports. This is a day for action! This transit will also be favorable for career endeavors involving sales, law or legal issues, international dealings, organized religion, entrepreneurial endeavors, planning to further one’s education, humanitarian efforts, and possibly speculative endeavors. Relations with friend, siblings & groups of people will go smoothly. Be on the lookout for opportunity today!
In the evening, the Sun in Pisces forms a slightly uncomfortable semisquare with Jupiter in Taurus (exact at 5:14pm EST). Remember, this is a planetary transit and its effects will be felt much longer than a Moon transit. Try to avoid compulsive shopping. It is possible to over-promise or to be overly confident (bravado). There may be a conflict between family and friends. We may be inclined to do everything big right now (including overindulging). Mostly, we will feel optimistic and sunny with this transit. Next, Mars (R) in Virgo will form a positive trine with Pluto (R) in Capricorn (exact at 8:24pm EST). Remember, this is a planetary transit and its effects will be felt much longer than a Moon transit. If you are goal oriented and really know yourself well, this could present an awesome opportunity coming your way. For folks that are wanderers, directionless, and really don’t know what they want from life…well this could give you the confidence & spunk you have been looking for. It is also possible to feel a strong need to change some area of life (most likely it will pertain to business with the association of Taurus/Capricorn). This will also give us increased energy, vitality, and possibly sex drive! All types of physical exercise are encouraged. Careful not to over-do it, because this can create a “weekend warrior” type of syndrome. Lastly, the Sun in Pisces will form an uncomfortable square with the Moon in Sagittarius (exact at 9:25pm 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.
(Thursday 3/15/12)- Today will be all about the Moon! There will be seven Lunar transits today; 5 out of the 7 will be positive. Keep in mind that the Grand Earth Trine astrological energies will still be influencing the day. Overnight, the Moon in Sagittarius will form a positive sextile to Saturn in Libra (exact at 3:34am 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 also be the beginning of a short 2+ hour void of course cycle that will last until the Moon transitions into hardworking Capricorn (exact at 6:24am EST). Themes that will be prevalent over the next 2 ½ days are: business endeavors, discipline, work, goal setting, drive, public ambition, and tradition. Try to avoid: workaholic tendencies, coldness, and using people for personal gain. Today seems like a day that is going to present an opportunity for healing. The situation may initially be upsetting, but the end result will be a growing experience. Next, the Moon in Capricorn forms a positive sextile to Neptune in Pisces (exact at 9:04am 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 around this transit. Anyone have rose-colored glasses? If you are sleeping while this event occurs, it may be possible to have prophetic or “visitation” dreams around this time.
In the afternoon, the Moon in Capricorn uncomfortably squares Uranus in Aries (exact at 1:26pm 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. Then, the Moon in Capricorn forms an uncomfortable square with Mercury (R) in Aries (exact at 4:53pm 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. Next, the Moon in Capricorn forms a positive sextile with (the “Wounded Healer”) Chiron in Pisces (exact at 5:52pm EST). You may be presented with an opportunity to heal or to be healed. Holistic and alternative medicine is especially favored. Serendipitous moments abound! Later the Moon in Capricorn forms a flowing trine with Mars (R) in Virgo (exact at 10:18pm 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. Lastly, the Moon in will be making its monthly conjunction with Pluto in Capricorn (exact at 11:00pm EST) adding emotional intensity to the mix. This may help with insights pertaining to business and financial endeavors. Helping to “pick up” on the undercurrent of a situation. This is also beneficial for therapy, cathartic experiences, passion, and ferreting out secrets.
(Friday 3/16/12)- Today will only consist of two (positive) Lunar transits. Even though both of these transits will be positive in nature, they will still be occurring in the sign of Capricorn which tends to err on the side of caution. Exactly at midnight, the Moon in Capricorn makes a flowing trine with Jupiter in Taurus (exact at 12:00am 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. Then, the Moon in Capricorn forming a flowing trine with Venus in Taurus (exact at 3:11am EST). 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! The remainder of the day will be under the influence of the Capricorn Moon….
(Saturday 3/17/12)- Happy St. Patrick's Day!
“When Irish Eyes Are Smiling, sure 'tis like a morn in spring.
In the lilt of Irish laughter you can hear the angels sing,
When Irish hearts are happy all the world seems bright and gay,
And When Irish Eyes Are Smiling, sure, they steal your heart away.”
Chaucey Olcott and George Graff, Jr.
I will be doing Astrological Readings at Spirit Dancer today between 2-5:30pm (I take my last reading at 5:00pm). 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 morning, the Moon in Capricorn will positively sextile the Sun in Pisces (exact at 7:12am 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? Then, the Moon in Capricorn will form an uncomfortable square with Saturn in Libra (exact at 9:00am 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. This will start a 3+ hour void-of-course Moon cycle that will and when the Moon transitions into unique Aquarius.
In the afternoon the Moon will transition into Aquarius (exact at 12:11pm 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. Later, the Moon in Aquarius will form a positive sextile with Uranus in Aries (exact at 7:45pm 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. Next, the Moon in Aquarius will form a positive sextile to Mercury (R) in Taurus (exact at 8:46pm 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.
Mark your calendars! Next Tuesday (3/20) the Sun transitions into Aries which is also the Spring Equinox, and on Thursday (3/22) there will be a New Moon in the sign of Aries…
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 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
Master NLP (Neuro-Linguistic Practitioner) Hypnotherapy Life Coach
Ordained Minister & Certified Spiritual Healer (Inter-Faith)
#(802)-999-4677
