Decode Your Uranus Opposition by House

1st House (Identity and Self-Image)

When Uranus opposes from the 7th house, relationships act as a mirror, showing you where your sense of identity may have grown stagnant. This is a wake-up call to embrace your authentic self, even if it means shaking up how others perceive you. Partners, friends, or even rivals might call attention to the ways you’ve been holding back. You could feel an overwhelming urge to make external and internal changes—revamping your wardrobe, switching careers, or even redefining what "success" or "self" means to you.

This transit often brings an "I can’t live like this anymore" moment, where the need for freedom outweighs the comfort of familiarity. You may face conflicts with others, especially if they resist the new, more authentic version of you. But that’s okay—this is your journey, and it’s meant to be revolutionary.

Example: After years of conforming to societal or familial expectations, you may finally decide to leave a stable but uninspiring career to start your own business or dive into a passion project. Or, you might change your look completely, going from understated to bold and unapologetically "you."

2nd House (Values, Finances, and Resources)

With Uranus opposing from the 8th house, your relationship with money, self-worth, and possessions is under scrutiny. You might experience financial surprises, like an unexpected expense or inheritance, but these moments are catalysts for a deeper transformation. This transit challenges you to rethink what truly makes you feel secure—is it material wealth, or something less tangible, like emotional resilience or creativity?

It’s also a time to release attachments to outdated values or possessions that no longer serve you. While this can feel destabilizing, it often leads to breakthroughs in how you earn, spend, or save money. You might explore unconventional income streams, such as freelancing, investing, or turning a hobby into a business.

Example: You might leave a corporate job to launch an online shop selling handmade jewelry or find yourself drawn to minimalist living, decluttering your life to focus on what truly matters.

3rd House (Communication, Learning, and Community)

When Uranus opposes from the 9th house, your everyday life gets a major shake-up. You might feel restless in your local environment, leading you to move to a new neighborhood or travel to far-flung places for inspiration. New ideas and philosophies could arrive suddenly, disrupting your usual ways of thinking and communicating.

You might become obsessed with learning something new, especially if it challenges traditional perspectives or broadens your horizons. This is also a time when relationships with siblings, neighbors, or close friends may shift unexpectedly, for better or worse.

Example: You might start a podcast, write a book, or take up an online course in a subject that completely reframes your worldview. Alternatively, a chance encounter or conversation could inspire you to question old beliefs and adopt a more open-minded approach to life.

4th House (Home, Family, and Foundations)

With Uranus opposing from the 10th house, changes in your public life ripple into your private world. You might feel called to redefine “home”—whether that means moving, downsizing, or creating a space that feels more aligned with your current self. Issues around family dynamics or unresolved past experiences may come to the surface, demanding attention and healing.

This transit often shakes up your sense of stability, but it’s also an opportunity to build a more authentic foundation. Your definition of “family” might expand to include chosen relationships, or you might finally release limiting patterns rooted in your upbringing.

Example: You might leave a big suburban house for a tiny home off the grid or decide to renovate your living space to reflect your unique tastes. On a deeper level, you could uncover family secrets or decide to break away from generational cycles that no longer serve you.

5th House (Creativity, Love, and Self-Expression)

When Uranus opposes from the 11th house, there’s tension between your personal passions and your place in the collective. You might feel pulled to focus on creative pursuits or a love affair that challenges societal norms. This transit urges you to embrace spontaneity, rediscover your sense of play, and break free from rigid expectations around love or artistic success.

Romantic surprises, like falling for someone unconventional or experiencing a whirlwind romance, are common. On the creative side, you might suddenly find yourself drawn to a new art form or hobby that feels like a truer expression of who you are.

Example: You could leave a long-term relationship that feels stagnant to pursue a bold, unconventional romance—or dive headfirst into a creative project, like writing a screenplay or starting a band, that pushes you out of your comfort zone.

6th House (Work, Health, and Daily Routine)

With Uranus opposing from the 12th house, this transit shakes up your daily routines and work-life balance. You might feel trapped by repetitive tasks or rigid structures, prompting a desire for more freedom. Changes in your health, job, or schedule may seem sudden, but they’re often a response to an internal need for alignment.

This is also a time when hidden fears or subconscious habits may surface, challenging you to let go of self-imposed limitations. The key is to experiment with routines and habits that support your well-being without feeling restrictive.

Example: You might quit a corporate job to work freelance or adopt a new health regimen, like intermittent fasting or yoga, that feels transformative. Alternatively, a health scare could prompt you to reevaluate how you prioritize self-care.

7th House (Relationships and Partnerships)

When Uranus opposes from the 1st house, your close relationships are in the spotlight. You may feel an urge to redefine what partnership means to you, leading to unexpected shifts in your love life or business collaborations. If a relationship has been stifling, this transit often brings things to a head, with decisions about whether to stay or part ways.

If single, you might meet someone who’s completely outside your usual type—a relationship that feels liberating and transformative. The key is to find balance between your independence and your need for connection.

Example: You might end a long-term marriage that no longer feels aligned with your values or, conversely, meet someone who challenges you to grow in unexpected ways.

8th House (Transformation, Shared Resources, and Intimacy)

With Uranus opposing from the 2nd house, sudden changes in shared finances or deep emotional ties can occur. You might receive an inheritance, finalize a divorce settlement, or confront fears around vulnerability and intimacy. This is a deeply transformative time, pushing you to release old patterns and embrace a more empowered approach to emotional and financial partnerships.

Example: You might start a healing journey through therapy, uncovering hidden fears about intimacy, or radically shift how you share resources with a partner after a financial shake-up.

9th House (Beliefs, Travel, and Higher Learning)

With Uranus opposing from the 3rd house, your worldview is due for a major shake-up. This is the classic "expand your horizons" transit—one that often arrives with a healthy dose of restlessness. You might feel an undeniable pull to explore new belief systems, dive into unfamiliar academic studies, or pack your bags for a life-changing trip. What’s unique about this transit is that the changes often begin close to home: a chance conversation, a book that lands in your lap, or a sudden realization could set you on an entirely new path of discovery.

You might also find yourself questioning the traditions or teachings you grew up with. The values and philosophies you’ve leaned on may start to feel restrictive or outdated. While this can be unsettling, it’s also an invitation to rewrite your own narrative.

Example: You could leave behind a career path rooted in practicality to pursue a calling in education, activism, or spirituality. Alternatively, you might decide to spend a year traveling abroad, immersing yourself in new cultures that challenge your way of thinking.

10th House (Career and Public Life)

When Uranus opposes from the 4th house, your professional world is in for a dramatic overhaul. If you’ve been playing it safe or sticking to a career that doesn’t light you up, this transit could be the wake-up call you need to realign with your true ambitions. Sometimes, this shows up as an external event—a surprise promotion, an abrupt job loss, or a public shift in your reputation—that forces you to reevaluate your path. Other times, it’s a more internal process, where a growing dissatisfaction leads you to say, “I’m ready for something different.”

What makes this transit so impactful is the tension between your outer and inner worlds. Changes at home or within your private life may catalyze shifts in your career, and vice versa. You may feel torn between focusing on professional success and finding stability or comfort in your personal life. But ultimately, Uranus pushes you to redefine your version of "success" and make bold moves that feel authentic.

Example: You might quit a high-pressure job to pursue a creative or entrepreneurial path, surprising everyone around you. Or, you could find yourself drawn to a public role that challenges societal norms, like advocating for a cause or starting a nonprofit.

11th House (Friendships, Groups, and Goals)

With Uranus opposing from the 5th house, this transit disrupts your social world and long-term aspirations. You may feel like the groups, friendships, or communities you’ve aligned with no longer fit who you are becoming. If your social circles have been defined by obligation or convenience rather than genuine connection, this is your chance to break free and seek out people who inspire and challenge you.

New friendships or alliances could form seemingly out of nowhere, often with individuals who are unconventional, eccentric, or forward-thinking. At the same time, you might find yourself reevaluating your larger goals—are they still meaningful, or have you outgrown them?

This is also a time when you might become more socially active or engaged with causes that matter to you. Uranus often brings a desire to contribute to something bigger than yourself, and you may feel drawn to groups or movements that align with your evolving values.

Example: You might leave a long-standing social circle to join an environmental activism group or take on a leadership role in a progressive community organization. Alternatively, you could experience a sudden falling out with friends that opens the door to new, more authentic connections.

12th House (Spirituality and the Subconscious)

When Uranus opposes from the 6th house, your inner world is undergoing a revolution. This is one of the most profound and deeply personal transits, often bringing unexpected spiritual awakenings, psychological breakthroughs, or encounters with the hidden parts of yourself. If you’ve been running on autopilot, Uranus jolts you awake, forcing you to confront subconscious fears, desires, or patterns that have been holding you back.

This transit might manifest as a pull toward solitude or introspection. You could feel a sudden need to retreat from the hustle of daily life to focus on your inner growth. Therapy, meditation, or other forms of spiritual practice may become essential tools for navigating this period. Alternatively, external events—like a health crisis or a shake-up in your work routine—might push you to reassess your priorities and create more space for self-care.

It’s also a time when intuitive or creative insights can arrive unexpectedly. The more you allow yourself to lean into the unknown, the more Uranus works its magic, helping you break free from old limitations.

Example: You might take a sabbatical to attend a spiritual retreat or find yourself drawn to practices like dream analysis, energy healing, or astrology. Alternatively, you could have a sudden epiphany about how your subconscious fears have been shaping your relationships, inspiring you to make transformative changes.

February 2025 Astrology Story - Jack and Emma

Chapter 1: A Dream Takes Shape

It had been a month since Emma and Jack’s first kiss on New Year’s Eve—a moment that shifted something within them, like the soft turning of a page in a book they hadn’t yet finished reading. Now, as February settled in, the air between them felt different—charged with anticipation, but also with a quiet certainty that something real was unfolding. It wasn’t just the connection they shared; it was the space they were carving together.

Emma, who had always been a dreamer, found herself seeing the world through a new lens. With Jack, the boundaries of what was possible seemed to stretch, like a canvas just waiting to be painted with both their hopes and fears. She had always believed in the power of dreams, but with him, she was beginning to believe that dreams could shape the real world—not just the one that lived inside her mind.

Jack, on the other hand, had spent years building things with his hands—real, tangible creations. But with Emma, he was starting to understand that there was room for something more: a kind of dreaming that lived in the spaces between words and silences, in the pauses and the glances that said more than language ever could.

The Valentine’s event at the bookstore, “A Love Written in the Stars,” was still two weeks away, but already the excitement was building. The event wasn’t just another day on the calendar—it felt like a culmination of everything they had been working toward. Poetry readings, music, exquisite food, and Jack’s handmade trivets stamped with celestial symbols—they were all part of the evening’s delicate choreography as if everything was slowly falling into place, like the pieces of a puzzle they hadn’t even realized they were solving.

Standing back, Jack watched as Emma guided the final touches on the decor. Even though the event was still some time off, there was a tangible sense of magic in the air, like everything was moving toward something they both knew would be unforgettable.

“It’s all coming together perfectly,” he said, his voice low but filled with wonder.

Emma looked up, her eyes sparkling in the soft glow of the lanterns. “It is,” she agreed. “Feels like this whole thing has found the right rhythm, doesn’t it?”

Jack smiled back, “Couldn’t have said it better myself.”

In that moment both of them knew—this was only the beginning. Something bigger was unfolding.

Chapter 2: Sparks of Passion (Venus Enters Aries – February 4th, 2025)

Venus, the planet of love, beauty, and relationships, moves into Aries—a sign known for its boldness, passion, and a thirst for immediate action. Unlike Venus in Pisces, which dreams of soft, fairy-tale romance, Venus in Aries is direct, fiery, and unapologetically bold in matters of the heart. This transit sparks desire, urging us to make decisions and take risks—perfect for embracing change in relationships.

For Jack, Venus in Aries ignited a burst of energy. The stillness of the past few months was giving way to an undeniable urge to move forward, his actions both thrilling and unpredictable.

As they locked the door to The Storyline, Jack turned to Emma, his expression more serious than she had ever seen it. The warmth of their friendship was still there, but now there was an undercurrent—something deeper, more intense.

“Emma,” he said, stepping closer, his voice low but firm, “What if we stopped waiting?”

She raised an eyebrow, sensing the weight of the moment. “Waiting for what?”

“For the perfect moment,” he replied, his eyes meeting hers with a mixture of challenge and vulnerability. “What if it’s already here?”

Her pulse quickened. She knew exactly what he meant. There had been something between them these past few weeks—a shift that neither had been ready to name until now.

She smiled, her heart racing with anticipation. “Maybe it is,” she whispered, stepping closer. “Maybe we just need to trust it.”

Without another word, Jack leaned in, his hand brushing against her cheek before cupping it gently. He closed the distance, and their lips met in a kiss that spoke louder than anything they’d said before.

When they finally pulled away, breathless and wide-eyed, there was no question in either of them. The moment had arrived.

Jack smiled, a mix of relief and excitement in his eyes. “So… are we doing this?”

Emma’s heart swelled, her voice steady with newfound certainty. “Yeah,” she whispered. “We’re doing this.”

It was simple, yet profound—the two of them, in this moment, deciding to leap forward together. No more waiting, no more wondering. Just now, and everything it held.

And it felt like everything. Jack and Emma were officially a couple.

Chapter 3: The Moment of Truth (Full Moon in Leo – February 12th, 2025)

The Full Moon in Leo brings with it an undeniable surge of energy—emotions, desires, and unspoken truths all coming to the surface. With Uranus in Taurus square the Moon, the energy is charged with the potential for breakthroughs, sudden realizations, and deeper understandings.

Emma and Jack had been busy for weeks, preparing for the bookstore’s Valentine’s event, and now the space was filled with the scent of fresh flowers, the soft glow of candlelight flickering from every corner, and the quiet hum of anticipation as the final touches were being made. Actors portraying famous love poets were booked, the wine had been carefully chosen, and Emma had draped the tables with elegant cloths, giving the space a warm, inviting glow. Everything was ready, but as the event drew closer, Emma couldn’t shake the feeling that something else was being set into motion between them—something deeper, though still undefined.

The night of the Full Moon arrived after a long day of final preparations. Emma and Jack, feeling both excited and drained, decided to take a break and go for a walk by the river. The cold air nipped at their skin, but the quiet of the night was grounding, almost sacred. The world around them seemed still, save for the distant rustling of leaves and the soft splash of water.

As they walked side by side holding hands, Jack was the first to speak. “You know,” he began, glancing at her, “I’ve been thinking a lot about this event. It’s not just about the bookstore or Valentine’s Day. It feels like it represents something more. Like it’s a bigger step for us.”

Emma smiled softly, her heart swelling with affection as she looked up at him. “I know exactly what you mean,” she replied. “It’s like... we’ve been building something together without even realizing it. And now that everything’s falling into place with the event, it feels like a shift in us too, like we’re stepping into something different, but in a good way.”

Jack nodded thoughtfully, his gaze fixed ahead, his hand brushing hers. “I don’t want to rush anything... but at the same time, I don’t want to pretend I’m not thinking about the future.”

Emma stopped walking and turned to face him, her breath puffing out in the cold night air. “Jack, I don’t think we’re rushing. We’re just letting things happen. Honestly, I think we both feel it, but we’re not forcing anything.”

He smiled, the weight of the moment settling between them. “Yeah, that’s exactly it. I don’t know what the future holds, but I’m in it with you. Whatever it looks like.”

Her heart warmed at his words. “Me too,” she said softly, squeezing his hand.

For a few moments, they simply stood there, their hands entwined, feeling the quiet strength of the connection growing between them. There was an unspoken understanding in the air—the acknowledgment that something was deepening. They resumed their walk, side by side, the soft glow of the Full Moon casting a silvery light over their path, a reminder of how far they’d come—and how much more there was to discover, both in their relationship and themselves.

Chapter 4: Words from the Heart (Mercury Enters Pisces – February 14th, 2025)

Mercury’s shift into Pisces brought with it a sense of tenderness and introspection. Words became more fluid, poetic, and emotional, creating an environment ripe for deeper conversations.

The Valentine’s event was in full swing with the bookstore alive with the hum of guests, the clinking of glasses, and the soft sounds of poetry being shared. The tables were expertly set with candles, books, roses, and Jack’s exquisite hand-made wood trivets. The event had turned out even better than they’d expected—a total success, filled with laughter, meaningful conversations, and a feeling of connection.

Emma moved through the room with an energy that was as warm as the glow from the table lanterns.

Jack watched Emma move through the room with an energy that was as warm as the glow from the table lanterns. His heart swelled with pride and something more. He had never imagined that this little bookstore would feel so much like home.

As the evening came to a close, Jack approached Emma, a soft smile tugging at his lips. “You did it, Emms…” he said.

A wave of emotion flowed over Emma as she whispered, “We did it, Jack.”

Jack’s heart fluttered—a feeling he wasn’t used to at all.

Emma’s smiling eyes locked with his. “And I’m really glad we’re doing this together.”

Chapter 5: A Quiet Shift (February 18th, 2025 – Sun Enters Pisces)

After the Valentine’s event, the bookstore was quiet, almost reverential, as though the space itself was still basking in the glow of the romantic energy. After closing the Storyline, Emma lit some of the remaining candles, casting soft shadows on the old wooden shelves. Jack closed up his shop for the night too, and joined Emma for a night of reading. They snuggled up side by side on the beautiful loveseat Jack had made. 

Though it was only a couple of weeks since they’d started officially dating, it felt like much longer. The chemistry between them was undeniable now—strong, natural, impossible to ignore.

Emma felt Jack’s eyes on her, the weight of his gaze lingering as she pretended to focus on the words in front of her. Her breath caught when his fingers grazed her wrist, a touch so light it almost felt like a question. She turned to look at him, meeting his gaze with a slight smile, and there it was—the unspoken connection that had been growing between them, electric and undeniable.

Without breaking eye contact, Jack gently placed his hand over hers, his thumb tracing a slow, deliberate circle over her skin. The simple touch sent a ripple of warmth through Emma’s body. 

"You're distracting me," she whispered, her voice low, teasing, with an edge of longing that made Jack’s heart race.

A confident smile spread across his face as his hand moved from her wrist to the side of her neck, his thumb gently tracing the curve of her skin. 

She closed her eyes, overwhelmed by the intensity of the moment, and the way his touch made everything else fade away. The room, the books, the world outside—all of it seemed distant. When she opened her eyes again, she found him leaning closer, the heat of his body radiating against hers. His lips were just a breath away, the magnetic pull between them undeniable.

Jack looked at her with a tenderness, his gaze intense but filled with reverence. Without a word, he kissed her. 

The kiss was deliberate and full of passion—tender yet filled with a hunger that neither of them could deny. His hand moved to the back of her neck, drawing her closer as if he needed to feel the closeness, the depth of what was unfolding between them.

When they pulled apart slightly, their foreheads resting together, the silence was thick with the unspoken understanding between them. The world outside of Jack and Emma didn’t exist. The Sun had just entered Pisces, and there was a quiet surrender in the air—an invitation to let go, to trust, to deepen the bond that was already strong between them.

“You feel it too, don’t you?” Emma asked, her breath warm against his skin.

“I do,” he said, his words grounding them both.

They settled back together on the couch, their fingers still intertwined. Their feelings were unfolding naturally —passionate, beautiful, and deeper than either of them had imagined. It was a quiet intensity that felt like a dream, but one they were both awake in together.

Chapter 6: Momentum Returns (Mars Goes Direct – February 24th, 2025)

By February 24th, as Mars turned direct after its long retrograde, there was an unmistakable shift in the air. The energy that had felt uncertain, began to loosen its grip. For Emma and Jack, the hesitation that had lingered since their first kiss on New Year's Eve seemed to dissolve, replaced by an excitement for the future. Mars in Cancer had kept them in limbo for weeks, but now, with the planet of action moving forward again, it was clear: the next chapter of their story was unfolding.

In the days that followed, Emma and Jack found their rhythm. The bookstore was thriving, and Jack had landed a new contract to restore the woodworking in the historic district. Though the world around them continued its inevitable spin, their connection felt like a secret they shared only between themselves. Evenings spent reading together on the couch had become a shared sanctuary. Emma found herself drawn to his presence in a way she hadn’t expected—a hum of energy that soothed and electrified her in the same breath. Jack, too, found a quiet joy in the mundane, as if the world around him had grown richer, more meaningful simply because she was in it.

“You know,” Jack said one night, “I was thinking about that night by the river when we talked about the future.”

Emma closed her book and turned to face him, her pulse quickening at the memory. “I remember,” she said softly, her heart beating faster at the thought.

His gaze was steady, deep. “I thought I would want to move slow... but now I…I don’t know. This is real, Emms.”

“Real is good,” Emma whispered, her voice thick with the weight of what they were building. “Real is everything I’ve ever wanted.”

The words lingered between them as Jack leaned in and kissed her, a soft press of lips that held them both in place, grounding them in the quiet present. As the room grew darker, they sat in companionable silence. Emma could feel it, deep in her bones—there was no more need to question what they had. Their connection was steady now, and the passion between them, once a spark, was now a steady flame, flickering with the promise of everything that could be.

Chapter 7: Destiny Takes Form
Mercury Conjunct Saturn – February 25th, 2025

The day was colder than Emma had expected, the wind biting at her skin as she walked downtown, carrying a warm coffee cup in her hands. The construction site was just a few blocks away from the bookstore, and she had been thinking about Jack all morning.

With Mercury in Pisces, her thoughts felt a bit scattered today—her mind drifting in and out of dreams and half-formed ideas. But with Saturn joining the mix, there was a rare clarity, a sudden sharpness that focused her attention. It wasn’t just the whimsy of daydreams anymore; there was something solid here. Her feelings were no longer just fleeting thoughts; they had shape, and they had weight.

She’d always loved seeing Jack work—, the way he moved with purpose, always thinking about the next step. But today, as she approached the site, the feeling was stronger. Maybe it was the Mercury-Saturn conjunction that brought everything she had been feeling into focus. Saturn’s discipline infused her emotions with structure, giving her a sense of purpose about where this was going. She wasn’t just coming to visit him because it felt right in the moment—she was coming because it was what she wanted, needed, to do.

Emma ducked under the low gate and made her way to the area where Jack was overseeing some of the restoration work. He was up on a scaffold, focused on the intricate details of some antique woodwork. Emma stood off to the side for a moment, watching him, the low hum of the site filling the air around her. She felt the pull of something deeper than just casual affection.

After a minute, Jack looked down and saw her standing there, coffee in hand. His face softened with a smile. “Hey, Emms! What are you doing here?” he called down, his voice carrying easily over the sounds of the site.

Emma lifted the cup slightly. “Brought you some coffee,” she said, her voice light but her heart steady. “Thought you could use a break.”

Jack’s smile widened. He carefully made his way down from the scaffold, stepping around the workers who were busy with their tasks, before he reached her. He took the coffee from her, his fingers brushing hers for a second longer than necessary.

“Thank you,” he said. There was something about the way he looked at her, something both intense and gentle.

“How’s it going?” she asked, her voice a little softer than usual, a little more vulnerable.

He took a sip of the coffee, savoring it for a moment before answering. “It’s good. We’re making progress.” His eyes held hers, and something unspoken passed between them. “But I’m glad you came by. I’ve been thinking about you.”

“Thinking about me?” Emma said, feeling her heart flutter.

Jack laughed softly, running a hand through his hair. “Yeah. I keep wondering what you’re up to. I don’t know… it’s just hard to concentrate on anything else when you’re on my mind.”

His words landed differently today. They didn’t feel like passing flirtation or idle thoughts. They felt grounded, and steady. There was an intentionality about them, as though Saturn had brought structure to what had been free-floating emotions.

“I’ve been thinking about you too,” Emma confessed, her voice soft. 

They stood there for a moment, a few workers walking past, their voices breaking the silence between them. But it didn’t matter. Everything felt quiet, just between the two of them, even amid all the noise. The Mercury-Saturn conjunction had anchored their feelings, made them real in a way that couldn’t be ignored.

Jack shifted a little, setting the coffee down on a nearby ledge, his hand brushing hers again as he stepped closer. “Emma,” he said, his voice low and steady, “I can’t ignore how much I feel for you.”

The words seemed to hang in the air between them, like a promise, like a declaration of intent.

She wanted to say something—something big, something that matched the intensity of what was between them. But maybe it was too soon…instead, she simply smiled, her eyes meeting his. As the sounds of the construction site continued around them, she allowed herself to lean in slightly, closing the distance between them. 

Chapter 8: A New Beginning February 28th, 2025 – New Moon In Pisces

The New Moon, square Jupiter in Gemini, was pushing them to rethink their perceptions, to challenge old beliefs. The energy in the air urged them to break free from the mental constraints they had built, and that shift felt powerful, even in the stillness of the night. With Mars in Cancer trine the New Moon, action was called for—a quiet courage to trust, to take that first step forward.

After a quiet dinner, the couple decided to walk along the river under a dark sky full of stars. Emma glanced at Jack, his face softer than usual, his steps slower, as if the weight of the evening had settled on him too. She had never felt so connected to him—his presence felt deeper, more grounded. There was something inevitable about the night, pushing her toward something she’d been holding inside for far too long.

Taking a steadying breath, she turned to face Jack. Her heart was racing, but she knew this was the moment. “There’s something I have to tell you,” she said.

Jack felt a pang of concern. Emma had been acting a little different tonight—more thoughtful, more distant. “What’s up, Emms? Is everything okay?”

Emma let out the breath she’d been unknowingly holding. Remember to breathe, she told herself.

“Yes... well, I think so. It’s just that I’ve never said this to anyone before...”

Jack met her eyes, and there was no hesitation in his expression. He stepped closer, gently taking her hands in his. “You can tell me anything, you know that.”

“Okay...” Emma said, taking a deep breath, feeling her courage building. “Jack, I love you.”

The words hung in the air for a moment—heavy but soft.

Jack’s smile spread slowly, a deep and knowing, traveling to the very depths of his soul.

“Emms, I love you too.”

He took her into his arms, and neither of them ever wanted to let go. At that moment, the truth of their feelings was all that mattered—the unspoken bond they had built over time. It was a quiet recognition of everything that had brought them to this point, and a shared courage to move beyond their old fears. Together, they felt a deep certainty that whatever came next, they were ready for it.

Astrology for January with Jack and Emma

Recap of December

Emma hosted The Storyline’s first community storytelling event, an evening that strengthened her ties to the neighborhood and reaffirmed her passion for stories and connection. Jack, invigorated by building the stage for the event, recommitted to his woodworking craft, embracing it as a source of stability and creative fulfillment.

On New Year’s Eve, under the warm glow of string lights in the bookstore, they shared a cautious yet meaningful kiss—a quiet acknowledgment of something special worth building slowly. They were now on the same path, even if they didn’t have all the answers yet. That evening, as they closed the shop together, Emma turned to Jack with a quiet smile.

“You’ve helped me more than you know,” she said softly.

Jack looked at her, his voice steady but warm. “You’ve helped me too, Emma. Maybe more than you realize.”

The weight of the moment lingered, not with pressure, but with possibility.

January 3 – Mars (retrograde) in Leo opposite Pluto in Aquarius

After their first kiss on New Year's Eve, Emma and Jack decided to take things slow. Both felt a quiet but undeniable connection, something that might be special, but they were cautious. Emma had just started to stabilize The Storyline, and Jack was still figuring out his next steps after returning to town. 

The first week of January was marked by tension for Jack and Emma, as the external world seemed to push them both to their limits. Jack received a call from a former client who had previously stiffed him on payment but now wanted to "reconcile" and commission new work. The temptation was there—he could use the money—but Mars retrograde opposite Pluto brought a tug-of-war between ego, pride, and integrity. Jack spent a day brooding in his workshop, sanding down a rough plank of wood as if trying to smooth out his own inner turmoil. Emma sensed something was off.

"You've been quiet today," she said, leaning against the doorframe of his workshop.

Jack glanced up, sawdust in his hair. "Just figuring some things out."

"You don't have to do everything alone, I’m here..."

The words hung in the air, and for a moment, Jack almost told her. But Pluto opposite Mars had a way of making vulnerability feel like a risk too big to take. Instead, he nodded and changed the subject. 

The same energy subtly pressed on Emma, too. She was trying to finalize the schedule for the new improv night series at The Storyline, but every time she thought she had it settled, another delay or miscommunication popped up. When a few volunteers canceled at the last minute, she was tempted to do it all herself—until Jack, with that same steady calm, smiled and said, "You don't have to do everything alone, I’m here..."

Emma nodded and smiled back. Having someone there to help was new to both of them…

Later that night, after the successful and silly first Improv community show at the Storyline ended, Jack told Emma about his former client, and how that brought up feelings of being cornered, feeling like he didn’t have a choice but to do what the guy who stiffed him wanted. 

Emma took his hand and said, “You don’t have to make a decision now, but you should go with your gut, Jack. If it doesn’t feel right, maybe it isn’t.” 

January 13th, 2025:

The full moon in Cancer hangs like a beacon above, its light casting long, clear shadows, illuminating the night with an ethereal glow. The moon's light holds the potential for emotional truths to emerge, intensified by Mars's retrograde, revisiting past hurts with courage.

As she closes up the shop, Emma's phone buzzes with a text from Jack. "Want to go for a walk? I could use some fresh air."

"Sure. Meet you out front," Emma texts back.

They meet outside The Storyline, the moon's light illuminating their path. Jack grapples with his decision about his former client, feeling the tug of Mars' retrograde energy urging him towards introspection rather than impulsive action.

"I've been thinking about this a lot, and I've decided," he says. "I'm not going back to that client."

Emma's smile is one of understanding and support. "I think you're making the right choice, Jack. It's time to move forward now."

With this revelation, there's a moment of peace, their shadows merging under the moon's light. "You know," Emma ventures, inspired by the clarity of the night, "maybe we could collaborate on something. I know you usually do big woodworking projects, but what about branching out with smaller artisan products too? Like those amazing trivets you were playing around in the woodshop with the other day. Maybe you could make some of those for the Valentine's event? It could bring attention to your work in the community. They really are special, Jack."

Jack feels a sense of alignment with this suggestion, the moon's illumination coupled with Mars' introspective energy guiding his path forward. He knows exactly what's in his heart now. "Yeah, I actually like that idea."

They stand there, the moon's light not just on them but through them, revealing paths not taken and the potential of those yet to be explored. This moment under the full moon is about seeing what is truly important, about making decisions from their higher, most authentic selves rather than from wounded impulsivity.

"Let's do it," Jack agrees, the decision under this moon feeling like the beginning of something meaningful. “Thanks, Emms.”

January 14 – Venus in Pisces square Jupiter in Gemini

The energy of this transit was expansive but scattered. It brought out the dreamer in Emma—and maybe a little too much of the "big picture, no details" kind of thinking. She woke up with the idea to host a Valentine's Day-themed poetry night at the bookstore. Her enthusiasm was contagious, and Jack found himself agreeing to help build additional seating before he even realized what he’d signed up for.

But Jupiter in Gemini was tricky—it made everything seem possible until you were in the weeds. By noon, Emma’s plan had gone from "a simple poetry night" to a "Valentine's Day extravaganza," complete with live music, food, and decor. 

"I thought this was supposed to be simple," he says with a lopsided grin, tapping the hammer against the seating bench he's building.

"Simple... but magical,” she says, gesturing vaguely toward the air as if simplicity floats somewhere in the ether. 

Jack noticed her exhaustion and set down his hammer, "Emma, I think you need a break."

She looked up at him, her eyes tired but grateful. "I don’t have time for a break, Jack. There’s too much to do."

He raised an eyebrow, a soft smile tugging at his lips. "That’s exactly why you need one. How about we go to that new movie we both want to see? Just... take your mind off things for a while."

Emma hesitated, the stress of the bookstore’s future weighing on her. But something about Jack’s suggestion, his presence, made her pause. She let out a long breath, then smiled, albeit a little reluctantly.

"Thanks, Jack, a little break may be just what I need," she agreed.

January 19 – Venus conjuncts Saturn in Pisces (Mercury sextiles Venus and Saturn)

With Venus meeting Saturn, reality hit. After weeks of floating in possibility, Emma was forced to deal with her budget for the Valentine's Day event. It was tighter than she thought. The light, dreamlike energy of Venus in Pisces met Saturn’s cold hard facts, and it felt like waking up from a pleasant dream into a gray, wintry morning. After closing the shop, Emma sat in the cramped office in the back of the store, calculator in hand, papers all over the desk, frowning at the list of expenses.

Jack walked in, carrying a box of hand-carved wooden trivets to show Emma for the Valentine’s Day event. He saw her face and raised an eyebrow. "That bad, huh?"

She sighed, rubbing her temples. "I didn’t think table linens would be so expensive. It's... discouraging."

He set the box down on a pile of books, and tilted his head, looking at her like he was measuring how much he should say. Finally, he sat across from her. “You know, you don’t have to do it all at once. The whole 'magic' thing? It’s still magic even if it’s a little messy.”

His words echoed the grounded wisdom of Mercury and Saturn working in harmony. Emma exhaled, some of the tension leaving her shoulders. "You're right," she admitted, glancing at him with a smile. 

"Don't worry," he grinned. "It will all work out, just the way it’s supposed to."

The past few weeks had been full of tension, but tonight felt different. With Venus in Pisces conjunct Saturn, the weight of their unspoken feelings seemed to settle into something more solid, more real. 

“Want to hang out for a bit?” Emma asked Jack.

“Of course, but not in the office,” Jack reached out his hand and led Emma to one of the new comfy love seats Jack built for the Event.

Jack turned toward Emma, his voice quiet. "You know, I admire what you’re doing here. The way you’re putting everything into this place... it’s inspiring."

Emma felt a warmth spread through her chest. She hadn’t realized how much she needed to hear those words. She smiled, looking down at her hands before meeting his gaze again. "I don’t always feel like I’m doing enough, but... thank you. I guess I’ve been so focused on making this work that I forgot what it means to have someone in my corner."

Jack’s eyes softened. "I’m here for you, and you’ve been there for me too."

They sat in comfortable silence for a moment, the weight of the past few weeks finally lifting.

“I have an idea that may help,” Jack said. “What if we put the Valentine’s trivets for sale in the shop now? It could build interest for the event, and help you cover some of the costs of the… tablecloths right?” 

Emma is overwhelmed for a moment by his kindness and nods in gratitude. They spend the rest of the evening coming up with ideas to make the magic happen. 

January 21 – Sun conjunct Pluto in Aquarius

A day of raw truth. This transit brought something to light that changed the way Emma and Jack saw themselves—and each other. The bookstore had been bustling, and the trivets Jack made had been selling out each day since they shared them on the Storyline’s Social Media page. More than enough to cover some of the costs, and pay for Jack’s artisan work. To celebrate, Emma and Jack went out to a local bistro for dinner, then took a walk back towards the shop afterward. 

"You know, Jack," she said, her voice barely above a whisper. "I’ve always had these doubts about myself. About whether I’m capable of doing this... making The Storyline something real. Something lasting."

Jack turned to her, his expression serious. "Emma, you’ve rebuilt that place from the ground up. It’s already real. And I’ve seen what you’re capable of."

Emma shook her head. "I know, but I’ve always second-guessed myself.”

Jack reached down to hold her hand. They stopped in front of the StoryLine and turned towards each other.

"I understand, Emma - I’ve had the same feelings about making a go of it with my work too. But you’re not alone in this, remember?"

The weight of his words settled into Emma’s chest, and for the first time in a long while, she felt the stirrings of hope.

January 26 – Venus in Pisces trine Mars in Cancer

The Valentine's Day event was only a few weeks away, and the collaboration between Jack and Emma had brought a ton of interest. All the tickets sold out as soon as they were released. That night, as snow fell softly outside, Emma finished rearranging the biography section. Jack had dropped in to fix the wobbly leg on one of the antique reading chairs, and when he was done, Emma invited him to stay for a drink.

They chatted about silly things for a while. Favorite songs, least favorite songs. Their stories wove together like threads in a tapestry. They found out they both had read the entire Goosebumps books series when they were kids.

"Remember 'Be Careful What You Wish For'? That one creeped me out," Jack said.

"The whole idea of a wish coming true but hurting others..." Emma shook her head, her voice trailing off.

"Exactly! I always think about it when I'm making a wish. I add all these mental disclaimers, just to be safe," Jack laughed.

"You know what? After reading that when I was a kid, I vowed to not make any more wishes. Just in case."

“You mean you don’t wish?” Jack asked, puzzled.

“Never, not since I was nine.”

Jack couldn’t believe it. His voice was quiet when he said, “You ever think about what you’d do if you weren’t afraid to wish?”

Her eyes met his. “All the time.”

“Maybe it’s time to let that go, Emms. Wishes are beautiful,” Jack suggested gently.

“Maybe you’re right…” Emma nodded, a moment of clarity passing between them. It was as if a weight had lifted, the idea of reclaiming the simple joy of wishing now seeming like a possible new beginning.

January 29 – Mercury conjunct Pluto in Aquarius, New moon in Aquarius 

The New Moon in Aquarius at 9° infuses the night with a sense of liberation and innovation, the air buzzing with the energy of four planets conjunct in this sign. Pluto, just a degree away, adds a transformative depth to the night, making it a powerful time to set intentions aligned with their highest ideals and long-term aspirations.

As the day ends, the bookstore quietens, the last customer leaves, and the subtle influence of Mercury conjunct Pluto at 1° Aquarius begins to sharpen their thoughts. There's an insistence on clarity, a refusal to settle for the superficial. Jack and Emma, feeling this energy, sit on the stage he built at Christmas, surrounded by an atmosphere that encourages deep communication and transformation.

"Can I tell you something?" Emma asks, her voice tentative yet filled with the honesty the night calls for.

"Of course," Jack replies, his gaze steady on her.

She looks down at her hands before meeting his eyes again. "I almost didn't do this. Any of it. The store, the fundraiser, letting you help me last month. I almost just… gave up."

Jack leans forward, his expression one of understanding. "Why didn't you?"

Her breath hitches, the truth illuminated by the New Moon's transformative light. "Because I knew I'd regret it more if I didn't try."

Silence settles between them, not uncomfortable but charged with the weight of their confessions. Jack nods, absorbing her words, feeling the pull of Mercury and Pluto's alignment urging them to cut through mental clutter to the heart of what matters.

"I've realized something," Emma continues, her voice stronger now.

Jack raises an eyebrow, intrigued. "What's that?"

"I've been so afraid to wish for anything because of what might go wrong, but you're right, it's time to wish for something beautiful. To let go of that fear."

Jack raised an eyebrow, intrigued. "What's that?"

"I've been so afraid to wish for anything because of what might go wrong, but you're right, it's time to wish for something beautiful. To let go of that fear."

Jack takes her hands in his.

"Let's make a wish together…"

Emma looks into Jack's eyes. She takes a deep breath, her voice barely a whisper as she says, "I wish for a story that unfolds between us, one that's full of surprises, where each page reveals something new and unexpected about who we could be together."

There is a space of silence before Jack speaks.

He smiles, and says, "I wish for a love that writes its own chapters, one where every twist leads us closer, and any ending is the beginning of something extraordinary.”

“Jack, what are you saying? Are you saying that you're falling in love with me?” Emma asked as tears filled her eyes.

"I'm saying I already am, Emms."

Emma doesn’t hold back her tears anymore, she lets them fall down her face, as she says, “I love you too Jack.” 

The Full Moon in Cancer: Clair De Lune

The Full Moon in Cancer illuminates the emotional landscape, calling attention to our roots, home, nurturing instincts, and the nurturing parent, most often mom. Cancer, ruled by the Moon, reflects our relationship with the past the emotional patterns we've developed and the need for a deeper understanding of where we seek emotional security. How we react to emotional vulnerability.

Why so vulnerable? Mars is conjunct with this moon, and it’s going retrograde in Cancer. Mars in Cancer is typically challenged as it’s in exile in that sign. 

This tension can bring up past issues that need to be addressed. All of this is pointing an emotional spotlight on a potentially sensitive spot, and one way to deal with it is to process it through your creative expression, whatever that may be. 

One excellent example of someone who did just that was Claude Debussy who once said, “Music is the silence between the notes”. "Clair de Lune" is probably his most famous composition.

I went on YT and found this performance by Artist Pascal Rogé, a master of French piano repertoire, who performed Debussy‘s “Clair de Lune” at New York City’s Steinway Hall. 

Debussy‘s suite was inspired by the poetry of Paul Verlaine which we are going to explore, but before we do, I have to share a few stories that touched my heart from the comments of this video. 

@stephenkeye267

My entire life, my dad played blues and jazz. One day we took my brother to the airport.  There was a grand piano in the middle of the airport.  Dad had gotten old 86. I heard this beautiful music I turned around a crowd surrounded the piano.  Daddy was playing this. My mouth dropped open. We never had heard him play classical ever. I was so impressed. Thanks for the memory

@ryanstrohbeck7515

My mother played this at the piano in my house when very young. Not this well but it didn’t matter. It annoyed me as a child when she played bc I couldn’t hear the TV or Nintendo or other useless thing I was doing. Now it is the fondest memory I have of her. The song always makes me pause when I hear it and reflect. Tears at times. I hope everyone can have something in their life that not only is so soothing like this is to me but brings their parents to life like this does for me.

@dianacaa

10 months ago (edited)

I haven’t heard this piece in years—eight, to be exact. When I was little, my mom played it every single day. It never got old. I’d fall asleep on the couch, listening to her, and wake up in bed, tucked in so carefully, like she was still there with me. The music wasn’t just a song; it was her way of telling me a story, of saying, “I’m here.” Even when she started teaching me to play the piano at four, I could never make it sound the way she did. Hers was warm and alive, while mine was just... practice.

Then everything changed when I turned nine. My parents’ fights turned into silence, and out of nowhere, she filed for divorce. The last day she spent in our house is burned into my mind. She played that piece over and over, all day long, from morning until the sky turned dark. When I woke up the next day, she was packing. I remember standing there, confused, asking where she was going. She said, “I’m going away for a while, be a good girl and don’t get in trouble, alright?”

I didn’t get it. I watched her put her things in the car and drive away, convinced she’d come back. But she never did. That night, when my dad came home, I asked him where she was, and he just shrugged and told me to get ready for bed. But how could I? I needed her. I needed that lullaby. It didn’t hit me until later that she was really gone. I cried for hours.

I kept playing the piano, trying to hold on to that piece of her. Last week, I logged into my old Facebook account—the one my parents used when I was little to post my photos, it never occurred to me that my mom is still friends with me on Facebook (I never logged in to this account)—and the first thing I saw was her, at a piano recital. She had remarried two years after the divorce, and now she had two kids—a 7-year-old girl and a 4-year-old boy—and was expecting another.

When I saw that post, something inside me broke. I was mad. I couldn’t stop crying. I scrolled through more posts, saw videos of her with her kids, and then, there it was: a video of her playing the piece she used to play for me. Except now, she was playing it for her daughter.

And then today, the YouTube algorithm decided to throw me a curveball and played a video of that piece. As I'm typing this right now, I'm listening to this piece, with all these memories crashing over me. I’m 17 now, studying at a music institute in Austria, but somehow, I’m still that kid waiting on the couch, hoping to hear my mom’s lullaby one more time.

***

"Clair de Lune" (which means "moonlight" in French) came out of a tough time for Debussy in the late 1800s. His marriage had ended badly - his wife, Lilly,  was a beautiful fashion model but didn’t share his interests in music or intellectual things, which led to dissatisfaction for both of them. Debussy eventually fell in love with another woman, and when Lilly found out about it, she attempted to take her own life. She survived. This caused a huge scandal for Debussy, leaving him feeling lost and despondent. In this emotional chaos, he turned to music to express his feelings.

The composition was inspired by Paul Verlaine's poem "Clair de Lune", which evokes longing and melancholy. The poem describes a moonlit scene, bringing both beauty and regret:

Clair de Lune

By Paul Verlaine

Your soul is like a landscape fantasy,

Where masks and Bergamasks, in charming wise,

Strum lutes and dance, just a bit sad to be

Hidden beneath their fanciful disguise.

Singing in minor mode of life’s largesse

And all-victorious love, they yet seem quite

Reluctant to believe their happiness,

And their song mingles with the pale moonlight,

The calm, pale moonlight, whose sad beauty, beaming,

Sets the birds softly dreaming in the trees,

And makes the marbled fountains, gushing, streaming—

Slender jet-fountains—sob their ecstasies.

The soul is like a magical place where feelings run wild, like in a dream. dancers wearing masks doing the Bergamask dance (The Bergamask, or Bergamasca, is a traditional dance that originated in the Bergamo region of Italy) is a metaphor for how we all have public faces and private hearts, celebrating love and life while also hiding parts of who we are. Reluctant to believe happiness because it is often fleeting, due to the human condition…

The music and dance he describes are in minor keys, which give off a subliminal feeling of how life can be sweet yet tinged with sadness. The composition "Clair de Lune" is technically in D♭ major, but it has this dreamy, sad vibe that feels a lot like a minor key. It's not all minor, but the way it uses notes and changes can make you feel like it's touching on those sad, reflective tones that you'd expect from a minor key.

This poem expresses how moonlight changes the mood, making everything feel reflective and a little more magical. Even nature gets in on it, with birds dreaming and fountains expressing joy and sorrow- all are connected in this night-time world. Some of the best moments in life are those with a bit of melancholy built into the beauty.

The music of "Clair de Lune" echoes this, mixing beauty with longing, showing how complex it is to look back on the past while dealing with the here and now. 

Music critic and writer of the late 19th century, Lawrence Gilman said 

"Clair de Lune is Debussy’s most perfect piece of impressionism; it is the quintessence of the art of suggestion, of the revelation of what lies behind the veil of sound."

Linking the Astrology

The full moon in cancer is a revelation of what lies behind the veil as well - illumination, revelation - and this may be a time to dive into your emotional history, confronting a sense of loss by exploring melancholy beauty in one way or another. Mars retrograde in Cancer helps us rethink how we've handled emotional pain in the past, revisiting that experience, and hopefully seeing a path forward.

A Uranus-Sun trine is embedded in this full moon, with the moon in an exact sextile to Uranus which offers brilliant creative freedom that can be harnessed into something that makes it into the material world. This could come unexpectedly or in an unfamiliar form, but it can be used for you to express yourself more genuinely, more authentically.

There is also a Neptune-Mars-moon trine that deepens emotional exploration because it opens up supportive energy and fresh ways to deal with sensitive or painful feelings. You may be feeling deep compassion for others, for your younger self, forgiveness for hurts of the past, or perhaps you aim this at a heartfelt drive toward a forward-facing dream. 

Reflection and Healing: A Time to Let Go

Moonlight shows us the beauty in our complexities. The past, with all its ups and downs, isn't just about the tough times; contemplating our deepest wounds and feelings can be a foundation to build growth upon. It can be a place of universal connection to others, sharing your story, your creative expression, and your unique human voice. 

Let’s Dance: Jupiter Square Saturn (Second Pass, 12/24/24)

Jupiter Square Saturn: Let’s Dance to the Rhythm of Change

Exacting for the second time on December 24, 2024, the Jupiter-Saturn square requires us to dance between two seemingly opposing energies: Jupiter's boundless optimism and Saturn's wisdom through boundaries and discipline. This tension between expansion and structure plays out in the stars and our personal lives. Because of the retrogrades and speed of the two planets, the initial square between our two largest planets in the solar system occurs three times. 2024, Aug 19, 2024, Dec 24, 2024 and Jun 15, 2025.

Jupiter Square Saturn: A Dance Between Desire and Discipline

The Jupiter-Saturn square challenges us to navigate the tension between expansion and restriction, optimism and realism. The square symbolizes a clash between the urge to grow and explore versus the necessity to slow down, take stock, and face our limitations. We are going to go on a journey to explore this dynamic starting with David Bowie’s song “Let’s Dance” 

On the surface, “Let’s Dance” beckons us to dance with joy, to lose ourselves in movement and connection. But as we dive deeper, we uncover a deeper undercurrent—the tension between outer exuberance and inner melancholy. 

David Bowie: A New Chapter in the Dance of Life 

In the early 1980s, David Bowie wanted to try something entirely different. For years, he had been at the cutting edge of avant-garde music, creating groundbreaking works like the Berlin Trilogy—a series of albums that explored the complex terrain of electronic music, ambient sound, and existential themes. But as 1983 began, Bowie felt a creative shift coming on. He was ready for change, and what better way to shake things up than to head in a new direction entirely?

On vacation in the South Pacific, Bowie found himself listening to a new genre of music that would forge the path for his next album. R&B, blues, and the smooth grooves of artists like James Brown and Albert King captivated him. In a moment of introspection, Bowie mused, "I asked myself, 'Why have I chosen this music?'" He found it was "very non-uptight music, and it comes from a sense of pleasure and happiness. There is enthusiasm and optimism on those recordings."

This newfound love for the soulful and infectious rhythms of R&B was a world away from the somber, experimental sound of his Berlin Trilogy. Bowie wasn’t just about making music anymore; he was ready to move and dance, and he wanted the music to reflect that—a sense of joy and freedom, something unencumbered by the intellectual weight of his past works.

This led him to Nile Rodgers, a legend of Chic who had defined the disco-funk sound of the late ‘70s. They met in a New York nightclub, and Rodgers immediately recognized that this was an opportunity to work with an artist who was willing to break free from the past.

Bowie shared a demo of a song he had written, a folky number that would eventually become Let's Dance. Rodgers, however, was not impressed. "I come from dance music," he later said. "You can’t call that thing you just played 'Let’s Dance.'"

Rodgers had no intention of crafting another ethereal, avant-garde track. Instead, he wanted something bold and accessible—a statement for the masses. With his guidance, they took the song, and bigger drums, bigger vocals, bigger chords, and even a touch of delay were added to make it feel larger than life. As Rodgers recalls, “I always started my songs with the chorus: 'Ahhh, freak out!' and 'We are family!' and then, of course, there's 'Let's Dance.'”

For Bowie, this was a revelation—a new way to create music, one where joy and abandon could coexist with the serious craft of composition. As he later reflected, "I really wanted that same positive optimistic rock 'n' roll, big-band sound that was very impressionistic for me back when. It’s got a hard cut – it sears through."

Side note - songs that Rogers produced, co-wrote, and or played on:

"Le Freak" – Chic (Co-written by Nile Rodgers and Bernard Edwards)

"Good Times" – Chic (Co-written by Nile Rodgers and Bernard Edwards)

"We Are Family" – Sister Sledge (Co-written by Nile Rodgers and Bernard Edwards)

"I’m Coming Out" – Diana Ross (Co-written by Nile Rodgers and Bernard Edwards)

"The Reflex" – Duran Duran (Co-written by Nile Rodgers and Duran Duran)

"Let’s Go" – The Cars (Co-written by Nile Rodgers)

"Private Dancer" – Tina Turner (Co-written by Nile Rodgers, Terry Britten, and Graham Lyle)

"The Right Stuff" – New Kids on the Block (Co-written by Nile Rodgers

The Tension of Jupiter-Saturn Square: Optimism Meets Reality (April - August 2024)

As we experience the Jupiter-Saturn square in 2024, the dynamics between expansion (Jupiter) and limitation (Saturn) come into play, much like what Bowie faced during the making of Let’s Dance. Jupiter, the planet of optimism, growth, and excess, pulls toward freedom and excitement, urging us to celebrate and take risks. Meanwhile, Saturn presents a reality check, asking us to acknowledge our limitations and put in the work to back up our dreams. 

For Bowie, Let’s Dance wasn’t just about making popular music; it was a balancing act between his desire to expand and reach a larger audience and the discipline of staying true to his craft. But once the song was made, there was no turning back. “I tried passionately hard in the first part of the '80s to fit in, and I had my first overground success," he later admitted. "I was suddenly no longer 'the world’s biggest cult artist' in popular music." The overwhelming success of Let’s Dance was both a triumph and a trap. It put Bowie in a place where the world saw him as an icon of pop music, but that very mainstream success made it hard for people to see him as anything more than the figure in the suit who sang “Let’s Dance.”

***(Let's dance) Put on your red shoes and dance the blues

(Let's dance) to the song they're playing on the radio

(Let's sway) while colour lights up your face

(Let's sway) sway through the crowd to an empty space

This is a reference to the 1948 film based on a Hans Christian Anderson fairy tale, - the red shoes

In both the Red Shoes fairy tale and the 1948 film, the red shoes symbolize the dangerous pull of obsession and unchecked ambition. In the fairy tale, a young girl becomes fixated on a pair of magical shoes that make her dance uncontrollably, and she ends up dancing to her death, unable to escape the curse. 

In the film, Vicky Page, a ballerina, struggles between her love for dance and her romantic life. She gets so consumed by her career and ambitions that it eventually leads her to a tragic end, much like the girl in the fairy tale. Both stories show how excessive optimistic pursuit over beauty, fame, or success can bring challenges, leading to self-destruction if we lose sight of balance.

The red shoes represent something exciting and desirable—it’s like the pull of Jupiter, which is all about growth, optimism, and seeking bigger and better things. The shoes seem like they’ll bring the girl and Vicky everything they want, just like how Jupiter makes us feel like anything is possible when we follow our dreams. But, much like the Jupiter-Saturn square, things go wrong when we get too caught up in the excitement without considering the consequences or put reality blinders on. 

Saturn is the reality check. 

Once the characters in the Red Shoes recklessly give in to their dream desires, Saturn steps in and forces them to face the harsh consequences. The red shoes, which once symbolized beauty and freedom, turn into a curse, pushing them to dance uncontrollably until they face disaster. A Jupiter-Saturn square forces us to confront what happens when we don’t respect the limits and discipline that Saturn brings to the table. Saturn's energy in Pisces, in particular, is about making sure we stay grounded, even as we dream big. It’s about saying, “Dream big, but don’t forget the hard work and the reality of the situation.”

The real takeaway here is that if you can balance your dreams with some realistic planning, you can avoid the downfall. It’s about learning to “dance” with ambition but knowing when to pause, take a breath, and re-evaluate the plan so you don’t burn out or go off course.

Let’s Dance: The Metaphor of Movement and Melancholy

Ultimately, “Let’s Dance” is a metaphor for resilience in the face of inner conflict. It speaks to the necessity of moving forward—even when the emotions might not fully match our steps. Bowie’s call to dance through the night is not just about revelry; it’s about continuing to move despite the shadows that may follow us. It’s important to acknowledge that there will be moments of darkness or friction where we feel as though we are dancing against our will, or putting on the red shoes of joy and dancing the blues. The dance may not always be easy, but the Saturn part of this duo can help us find a way to keep moving while remaining grounded—a balance of expansion and limitation, dream and reality, optimism and melancholy.

Stevie Ray Vaughan: The Guitarist Who Could Dance the Blues (April - August 2024) side note

One of the most unexpected collaborations on Let’s Dance came from a then-unknown guitarist named Stevie Ray Vaughan. Bowie had seen Vaughan perform at the Montreux Jazz Festival and was immediately struck by the guitarist’s raw energy. Bowie felt that Vaughan could “become a midwife” to a new sound that combined the bluesy grit of American music with the European sensibility that Bowie had cultivated over the years.

Vaughan, who had previously worked as a delivery guy, soon found himself playing on one of the most famous albums of the decade. His blues-infused guitar helped shape the sound of Let’s Dance. While Rodgers and Bowie were making everything bigger, Vaughan added the bluesy soul that grounded the track, helping to marry the surface optimism and exuberance of the song with the emotional depth of the blues.

The collaboration between Bowie and Vaughan is kind of like the Jupiter-Saturn square in action. Jupiter's all about pushing boundaries and going big, while Vaughan’s soulful, earthy style brings things back down to earth. Together, they let Bowie move forward with that same sense of growth and excitement, but without losing the emotional depth and grounding that made his earlier work so special.

The Personal Struggle: The Price of Success (1983 - 1984)

Despite the success of Let’s Dance, Bowie soon found himself trapped by the very success he had worked for. The Jupiter-Saturn tension wasn’t just external—it was deeply personal. “I’ve listened to him talk about it, and it really was uncomfortable for him," Rodgers explained. "Because it put him in a world that even he had never experienced before.” The immense popularity of Let’s Dance put Bowie in the spotlight, taking him far away from the artistic freedom he once enjoyed.

"I had started appealing to people who bought Phil Collins albums," Bowie admitted, reflecting on how his foray into mainstream pop made him feel like he had boxed himself in creatively. Saturn's influence of restriction manifested in how difficult it became for him to escape the image of the Let's Dance artist. Despite expanding his popularity, it became harder for him to maintain his avant-garde edge, and he became frustrated.

 "‘Let's Dance’ was such a big hit, it threw him and he lost his center."

Side note - his next album was his nadir or lowest point, and After Let’s Dance (1983), David Bowie released Tonight in 1984. This album followed the commercial success of Let’s Dance, but it didn’t have the same impact. Tonight featured a mix of pop, reggae, and dance music, and while it included some collaborations with Tina Turner and Iggy Pop, it didn't match the energy or success of Let’s Dance.

His next move was to become the Goblin King in Labyrinth in 1986, so that was more about fantasy and acting, showing a different side of Bowie’s creativity. So, while the two aren’t directly linked musically, they’re part of the same period where Bowie was exploring different artistic expressions.

The classic tale of be careful what you wish for, or you may get it. Bowie had to figure out how to embrace his success while staying true to his essence. Put on the red shoes and dance the blues…but also take off the red shoes and give those tired toes a break. 

Overall, this is a potentially tense period, but the tension brings visions of how to move forward in a more healthy and balanced way. 

Understand Winter Solstice

The Solar Analemma & The Symbol of Infinity

If you’ve ever seen an image of a figure-eight-shaped path traced by the Sun over the course of a year, that’s the solar analemma. It’s the Sun’s movement through the sky, captured at the same time every day for a year. At the very bottom of that figure-eight is the Winter Solstice—the Sun’s lowest point. This moment of stillness, where the Sun seems to "pause," becomes the base of the infinite cycle of the year.

This is a profound symbol. The Winter Solstice isn’t just a low point—it’s the foundation for everything that follows. Just like the bottom curve of the analemma, it’s a place of depth, rest, and reflection. And from that still point, the energy begins to rise again. This mirrors the Solstice's energetic shift from darkness back to light, a reminder that every low point holds the potential for an upward turn.

Be the Architect of Your Own Solstice Intentions

The Winter Solstice on December 21, isn't just a seasonal shift—it’s a powerful threshold moment where endings turn into beginnings. With the Sun at its lowest point in the sky, we experience the longest night and shortest day of the year. But from this stillness, the light begins its slow, steady return. It’s a pause point—a chance to reflect on the past, honor the present, and map out intentions for the year ahead.

If that sounds a little abstract, think of it like this: Imagine you’re designing a house—not just any house, but one that reflects your values, dreams, and the life you want to live. This is where Frank Lloyd Wright’s architectural philosophy comes in.

Frank Lloyd Wright & The Art of Intentional Design

Wright wasn’t just an architect of buildings—he was an architect of experience. His most famous home, which wasn’t perched on top of a hill to dominate the landscape, but built it into the “brow” of the hill, integrating it with the natural world. 

Following family custom, he gave the site a Welsh name, “Taliesin” (pronounced Tally-ESS-in), which means “shining brow.” The name symbolized Wright’s intention to create a home that was “of the hill,” not on it.

He believed human structures should work with nature, not against it. This idea of living with natural forces instead of trying to control them aligns perfectly with the energy of the Winter Solstice. 

“Local farmers helped Wright move stone from the yellow limestone quarry nearby, which he then mixed with sand from the river to create Taliesin’s walls. Plaster for the interior walls was mixed with sienna, providing a golden hue reflective of the pastoral setting. Taliesin features many architectural elements that became Wright’s trademarks: the cantilever roofs, wide windows, and an open floor plan.”

Much like the Sun “pauses” at its lowest point, Taliesin was a space designed for presence and reflection. Its wide windows let in natural light, allowing the changing arc of the Sun to cast shifting patterns of light and shadow throughout the year. The design incorporates noticing the passage of time—the very thing we’re encouraged to pause, and do at the Solstice.

Capricorn Energy: Patience, Mastery, and Building Something That Lasts

Astrologically, the Winter Solstice marks the Sun’s entrance into Capricorn, a sign ruled by Saturn, the planet of time, structure, and discipline. If you’ve ever started a long-term project—like writing a book, learning a language, or planting a garden—you’ve tapped into Capricorn energy. It’s about slow, deliberate progress toward something meaningful.

The winter Solstice functions like a “New Moon” for the entire year. New Moons are moments to plant seeds of intention, and this is like the biggest one because metaphorically represents the new moon as it is the longest, darkest night of the yearly cycle. That has some powerful manifestation potential. 

It’s a time to pause, reflect, and ask yourself: What do I want to build in the year ahead? What foundations do I need to lay now to make that happen? What kind of house do I like, what does it look like, how does it feel?

Capricorn doesn’t do shortcuts, and neither did Frank Lloyd Wright. His work reminds us that things worth building take time, patience, and care. To take this metaphor of Talesian a little further, FLW rebuilt it several times, and it has had many purposes. 

Wright would rebuild the house twice, following significant fire damage in 1914 and 1925. The property grew and expanded over time, with buildings to house its various functions as a home, a studio, a school of architecture, and a self-sufficient working farm. Taliesin, like all the homes that Wright designed for himself, continued to evolve over the nearly five decades that he lived there. Wright treated the home as a laboratory of sorts, continually altering it with the help of his apprentices whom he called “the fingers of my hand.”

This is encouraging to think about the malleability of a house, of our architectural blueprint for our lives, that it is not static, and it can be a laboratory of sorts, to fit our needs as we grow, learn, and evolve. 

Designing Your Solstice Blueprint

If you think of your life as a house, this is your chance to be the architect of what comes next. Like Wright, you don’t have to bulldoze everything and start from scratch. Instead, you can work with what’s already there, building something that feels rooted, intentional, and in harmony with your surroundings. 

Here are some ways to work with this energy:

• Map Your Blueprint: Take a moment to reflect on the past year. What worked for you? What didn’t? Are there areas of your life that could use a little freshening up? You can do this in a journal, by writing a letter to your future self, or even just by quietly thinking about how the lessons of the past year can guide you forward.

• Set Your Foundation: If you think of your life like a house, to stand strong, it needs a solid foundation. So, as the year begins, consider what long-lasting habits or structures you want to build. Focus on things that will support your growth in the long run, not quick fixes.

• Honor the Light’s Return: Light a candle to celebrate the return of the Sun. As you do, think about what you want to grow in your life as the days start to get longer again. What seeds do you want to plant for the months ahead?

• Create a Winter Altar: Set up a little sacred space to honor the solstice. You can decorate it with things that represent renewal—evergreen branches, crystals, or seasonal fruits. This can serve as a reminder of winter’s quiet wisdom and the returning light, helping you stay grounded through the colder months.

• Integrate Nature into Your Blueprint: Winter is a time when nature slows down, resting to prepare for new growth. Take a walk in the cold air, notice the stillness of trees, or just sit outside for a while. Let nature’s rhythms inspire your plans for the year ahead, embracing the cycles of growth, rest, and renewal.

A Final Thought

Frank Lloyd Wright’s philosophy wasn’t just about houses—it was about how we live within the natural rhythms of life. At the Solstice, we’re reminded to do the same. This is your moment of stillness, your chance to design the year ahead with patience, precision, and presence. Instead of rushing toward resolutions, take this moment to pause, reflect, and ask: What kind of life am I building? Like FL Wright’s home, Taliesin, your life doesn’t have to sit on the highest peak to be great—it just needs to be rooted in intention and in tune with the world around you.

Gemini Full Moon December 2024

The Parent Trap Full Moon: Gemini’s Game of Switched Roles

On December 15, 2024, the Gemini Full Moon lights up the sky like a scene from The Parent Trap, but instead of twin sisters swapping places, it’s Mercury and Jupiter playing the switcheroo. Mercury, the planet of logic, communication, and details, is retrograde in Sagittarius — a sign that prefers sweeping visions over fine print. Meanwhile, Jupiter, the planet of big-picture thinking, philosophy, and faith, is retrograde in Mercury’s home turf of Gemini — the sign of quick thinking, facts, and endless curiosity.

This "role reversal" creates a mental tug-of-war where both planets are out of their element. Imagine two kids pretending to be each other — Mercury is now the "big dreamer" in Sagittarius, exaggerating every detail, while Jupiter tries to keep up with the rapid-fire pace of Gemini, spinning every idea into a wild story. The result? A lot of bold claims, confused logic, and people thinking they know something when, in reality, they don’t. In The Parent Trap, it takes a while before everyone notices that something is off. That’s the vibe of this Full Moon. One thing to keep in mind here is the astrological concept of mutual reception. This means that the two planets are in each other signs at the same time, and they can communicate helpful advice to each other, hints, and clues on how to ‘behave’ and make the most of their journey in that sign. 

The Foggy, Frenzied Energy of the Gemini Full Moon

The Moon in Gemini is known for fast thinking, clever communication, and the exciting feeling of discovery and curiosity. But this time, it’s not all fun and games. The Full Moon faces off against the Sun in Sagittarius, and together they form a T-square with Neptune in Pisces — the planet of dreams, illusions, and fog.

According to astrologer Renn Butler, this energy can create confusion, disorientation, and longing. It's that feeling of being caught between worlds — trying to figure out what’s real and what’s just a mirage. You might find yourself questioning your intuition, doubting your choices, or realizing you were under a false assumption all along. It’s like you’re watching a magic show, and for a moment, you believe in the illusion — until you spot the magician’s trick.

Thomas Deininger: an artist who is a master of illusion: In a barn studio brimming with creative chaos, Thomas Deininger redefines the boundaries of art by transforming discarded materials into colorful narratives. With a childhood shaped by ADHD and dyslexia, Deininger found solace in drawing and building, laying the foundation for his unique artistic approach. His pieces, often revealing different facets from various angles, invite viewers to experience a range of emotions and engage with pressing environmental issues. Despite the challenges of working with non-traditional materials, Deininger views obstacles as opportunities for innovation, creating art that evokes a range of emotions. 

With the Moon and Sun both squaring Neptune, clarity is hard to come by. Miscommunications are everywhere. People might promise more than they can deliver, or facts could be twisted to fit a narrative. You might misinterpret someone’s intentions or over-idealize a situation, only to feel disillusioned later. This is not the time to make big, life-altering decisions — or to believe everything you hear.

Mercury Stations Direct: The Plot Twist We’ve Been Waiting For

Here’s where things start to shift. On the same day as the Full Moon, Mercury stations direct in Sagittarius. If the past few weeks have felt like a spiral of delays, crossed wires, and miscommunication, Mercury's shift into direct motion is like a reset button for your mental clarity. But stationing days can be weird. It’s like waking up from a confusing dream where you’re still half-in and half-out of sleep. It may take a moment before everything "clicks" back into place.

During this time, information that was previously hidden or misunderstood might suddenly come to light. If you’ve been waiting on an answer, you might finally get it. But because Neptune is still tangled in this Full Moon, it’s possible the "answer" you receive could be murky at first. Give yourself space to process things before making any bold moves.

The Bigger Picture: Jupiter and Saturn Square Off on Christmas Eve

As if the Full Moon wasn’t enough, the larger backdrop of December features a building square between Jupiter and Saturn, which will go exact on Christmas Eve. This aspect represents a tension between expansion and contraction, optimism and realism, belief and fact. Jupiter wants to dream big, while Saturn forces you to face limits and consequences. It’s like having a wild party planned, only to realize there’s a strict noise curfew. You have to get creative about how to keep the celebration going without crossing the line.

This square asks us to balance hope with pragmatism. If you’ve been chasing a big idea (Jupiter), Saturn might step in to remind you of the fine print, the deadlines, or the resources you’ll need to make it happen. It’s not here to crush your dreams — it’s here to keep you from overextending yourself. If you can stay focused and patient, you might be able to build something lasting from your big ideas. But if you push too hard or try to skip steps, you’ll hit a wall.

How It Feels: Tips for Navigating the Full Moon Energy

This Full Moon is like being caught in a whirlwind of thoughts, ideas, and misunderstandings — while also trying to decipher a riddle. It’s fast, confusing, and full of plot twists. Here are five ways to stay grounded:

1. Stay Curious but Skeptical: With Mercury and Jupiter in their swapped roles, it’s easy to get swept up in exaggerated ideas or stories that sound too good to be true. Fact-check before you believe. If someone says, "This will solve all your problems," proceed with caution.

2. Pause Before You Speak or Decide: Neptune’s influence means we’re not seeing everything clearly. Big promises, bold claims, and impulsive decisions are risky right now. If you can delay your response, do it. Let the fog clear first.

3. Expect the Unexpected: Mercury’s station direct is like a sudden U-turn. You might think things are moving in one direction, only for new information to change the course. Be flexible.

4. Watch Out for Burnout: The mental buzz of Gemini can feel like too much coffee and not enough sleep. Try not to overbook your schedule. Rest is just as important as "doing."

5. Remember Jupiter vs. Saturn: As the Jupiter-Saturn square tightens, you might feel torn between chasing big ideas and facing the reality of limits. Both are necessary, and both have value. The goal is to find balance.

The Takeaway

This Full Moon is a time to hold contradictions with grace. Logic and intuition, certainty and doubt, dreams and reality — they’re all in play at once. You might feel pulled to make sense of everything right away, but the message here is to let some things stay unresolved for now.

With Mercury shifting from reverse to forward motion, a sense of progress is on the horizon, but stationing days are slow and strange. Conversations that felt stuck may finally move forward, but don't expect instant clarity. Neptune’s influence makes it easy to misread signals or chase illusions, so try to be patient if you can. 

If you’re feeling like you’re caught in the plot of The Parent Trap — where what looks familiar suddenly feels different — you’re not alone. Roles are shifting, perspectives are flipping, and it may feel like you’re seeing the world through someone else’s eyes. It’s disorienting, but it’s also a chance to see things from a new angle. The fog will clear, and when it does, you'll see that the "switch" — whether in thinking, beliefs, or direction — was exactly what needed to happen.

The message of this Full Moon is simple: Be patient. Clarity is coming.

Mars Retrograde 2024-2025: The Call to Confront Your Desires

On December 7, 2024, Mars turns retrograde at 6° Leo. This reversal lasts for nearly three months, with Mars resuming direct motion on February 24, 2025, at 17° Cancer.

Mars retrograde is a rare event, occurring just once every 26 months. For comparison, Mercury goes retrograde three times a year, while the outer planets do so once annually. The infrequency of Mars retrogrades makes them potent periods of transformation.

This is not a time to dismiss or downplay. Mars retrograde demands attention, action, and reflection.

What Does Mars Retrograde Mean?

When Mars goes retrograde, the familiar drive that propels you forward suddenly takes an unexpected turn. Imagine driving a car with no power steering.

In a modern car with power steering, every movement of the wheel feels smooth, effortless, and responsive. You can make a sharp turn with just the flick of a wrist. But when you’re driving a car without power steering, every turn of the wheel requires physical effort. It feels clunky, heavy, and unresponsive.

That’s the essence of Mars retrograde. The momentum is still there, but every action requires more effort, and simple maneuvers that used to feel instinctive now feel awkward or laborious. You may doubt your ability to “turn” in the right direction, and every shift feels like it takes too much energy.

This retrograde isn’t a period of pure stillness. You’re still moving—but it will feel like you have to fight for it. And that struggle is the whole point. Mars retrograde doesn’t want you to move on autopilot. It wants you to feel every inch of that wheel turning in your hands, every degree of effort it takes to shift course.

If Mercury retrograde is about "pause and reflect," Mars retrograde is "pause, reassess, and then pursue with precision."

Mars Retrograde 2024-2025 Timeline

Here's the key timeline for this particular Mars retrograde:

• October 5, 2024 – Mars enters its shadow at 17° Cancer

• November 3, 2024 – Mars opposes Pluto at 29° Cancer/Capricorn

• December 7, 2024 – Mars goes retrograde at 6° Leo

• January 3, 2025 – Mars opposes Pluto at 1° Leo/Aquarius

• January 6, 2025 – Mars re-enters Cancer

• January 15, 2025 – Mars opposes the Sun

• February 24, 2025 – Mars goes direct at 17° Cancer

• April 27, 2025 – Mars opposes Pluto at 3° Leo/Aquarius

• May 2, 2025 – Mars leaves its shadow at 6° Leo

This timeline tells a story. Pay attention to events or themes that arise around these dates. They often reflect interconnected threads that build on each other over time. The moment Mars enters its shadow, the story begins. When Mars turns retrograde, the plot twist occurs. When Mars goes direct, the resolution is in sight.

Mars Opposite Pluto: The Clash of Wills

One of the most intense features of this Mars retrograde cycle is its opposition to Pluto, an influence that stretches from November 2024 to April 2025.

If Mars symbolizes the raw, untamed force of personal will, Pluto symbolizes deeper, hidden power structures. This dynamic can be compared to a lion and a lion tamer.

• Mars (the lion) is raw instinct, courage, and ferocity. It is driven by hunger and desire, acting on impulse. It has the natural power to take what it wants, but its energy can be wild and unpredictable.

• Pluto (the lion tamer) represents the force that seeks to control and dominate raw power. The lion tamer uses strategy, fear, and psychological influence to "master" the lion, though this mastery is fragile—one wrong move, and control can be lost.

When Mars and Pluto oppose each other, it’s like watching a lion grow restless in the arena. The tamer (Pluto) holds the whip, but the lion (Mars) knows its own strength. At any moment, the balance of power could shift.

This opposition often manifests as external power struggles or internal conflicts about control, dominance, and autonomy. Who is holding the whip in your life? Is it a boss, a partner, a family member—or perhaps an old version of you that still plays by outdated rules?

Sometimes the "lion tamer" isn’t a person at all but a belief system or internalized expectation. The "impossible situation" may be one where you feel caught between needing to assert yourself and fearing the consequences of doing so.

This period offers a chance to reclaim power, but it won’t come through passive reflection. It may require bold action, confrontation, or finally standing your ground in the face of control.

From Leo to Cancer: The Lion Becomes the Crab

Mars begins its retrograde at 6° Leo and ends it at 17° Cancer.

This isn’t just a shift in degrees—it’s a symbolic transformation. Leo and Cancer are two vastly different creatures.

At the start of the retrograde, Mars is a lion, bold, loud, and unapologetically seen. The lion roars to assert dominance and claim its territory. It hunts in the open, stalking its prey with dramatic flair.

But as Mars backs into Cancer, it becomes a crab—armored, sideways-moving, and far more cautious. The crab doesn’t roar. It retreats into its shell and moves indirectly toward its goal, side-stepping instead of charging head-on.

This shift reflects a fundamental change in approach. But it’s not just about strategy—it’s about exile. Mars is in exile in Cancer, which means its fiery nature is at odds with Cancer’s emotional, protective qualities. The driven, direct pursuit of Mars becomes emotionally tangled. Desires are no longer straightforward.

When Mars is in Cancer, actions are guided by feeling rather than logic. Decisions become less about "what’s efficient" and more about "what feels right." Frustration builds when emotions override logic, leading to defensiveness, hesitation, or passive-aggressive responses.

In Leo, Mars is proud and assertive. In Cancer, it must confront its own vulnerability. This shift forces Mars to contend with the emotional roots of desire. What do you really want—and why? Is it pride, protection, or something deeper?

Jungian Perspective: Confronting the Shadow Self

Jung believed that the "Shadow" represents the parts of the self that are unconscious, repressed, or socially unacceptable. These hidden parts of ourselves often show up as projections—we see them in others but fail to recognize them in ourselves.

Mars retrograde can include a confrontation with the Shadow, especially the parts of ourselves that relate to anger, desire, and control. The situations you face during this retrograde may seem like they’re caused by other people (bosses, partners, authority figures), but they’re often reflections of unresolved inner conflicts.

For example:

• If someone in your life is being overly controlling, where are you controlling yourself too rigidly?

• Where are you resisting emotional vulnerability or softness if you’re feeling blocked by an external force?

• If your frustration with others feels unbearable, is it possible that they’re reflecting something within you that you’re unwilling to confront?

This process is not about blame—it’s about integration. The lion must recognize that it, too, has been tamed by unseen forces (internal or external). The crab must face its fear of exposure and learn to navigate life’s waters with greater emotional intelligence.

When Mars goes direct on February 24, 2025, you will have faced parts of yourself that were too "wild" to confront before. But instead of banishing the lion or crab, you learn to coexist with it. You become both predator and protector.

Reflection Questions for Mars Retrograde

1. Where do you feel "tamed" by unseen forces?

2. Are you approaching your goals like a lion or a crab—and does that approach still serve you?

3. What parts of your Shadow are revealed in your frustrations, desires, or impulses?

Mars retrograde is a time to work with your Shadow, not against it. By the end, you will understand that every crab carries its home on its back. You don’t need to chase power. You are the power.

Conclusion: From Crab to Lion — An Emotional Reclamation

Mars retrograde from Leo to Cancer strips away pride and exposes raw emotional truths. In Cancer, Mars is in exile, forced to confront its motives with emotional intelligence rather than brute force. This period calls for patience, reflection, and a willingness to face vulnerabilities.

When Mars stations direct on February 24, 2025, the emotional weight lifts. Lessons learned in Cancer—about protection, patience, and the roots of desire—shape a more self-aware Mars. By the time it re-enters Leo on May 2, 2025, it returns as a lion with deeper purpose. No longer driven by impulse alone, it moves with clarity and heart.

This journey from crab to lion isn’t just about reclaiming power—it’s about understanding the emotional currents that shape it.

The Threshold of December: A Story of Second Chances with Astrology

It’s December 1, 2024. Emma, a former high school drama teacher turned small-town bookstore owner, is struggling to revive her shop, The Storyline. The rent has gone up, and the New Year’s Eve deadline to renegotiate her lease looms. As the New Moon in Sagittarius at 9° rises—square Saturn in Pisces and trine Mars in Leo—Emma debates taking a risky step: hosting a big community fundraiser. Sagittarius whispers of optimism, but Saturn’s doubts gnaw at her. Is it worth it? “Plant the seed,” she mutters as she starts sketching out her event plans, her pen tapping nervously against the page.

On December 7th, as Mars stations retrograde in Leo, the stakes deepen. Emma’s fundraiser idea collides with her rekindled friendship with Jack, a former classmate turned carpenter. Jack has just returned to town after years away, looking to rebuild his life after his business collapsed. When he steps into the bookstore, Emma’s heart skips, though she quickly buries the feeling under a polite smile.

Jack offers to help renovate the shop for her event, but his energy is different—more reserved than Emma remembers. Mars retrograde seems to pull him inward, forcing him to confront old failures. Emma notices his hesitation as they sketch out plans together late one evening. “You’ve got this,” she says, placing a hand on his arm. He meets her gaze, something unspoken flickering between them before he clears his throat and changes the subject.

While Emma pushes forward with the event, Venus enters Aquarius the same day, bringing an inventive twist to their collaboration. Jack suggests a quirky fundraiser idea: a storytelling night where people share their most cherished memories of the bookstore. “It’s a little… unconventional,” Emma teases, trying to ignore how his grin softens her resolve. Venus whispers, Why not take a leap?

On December 8th, Neptune stations direct at 27° Pisces, heightening emotions and blurring boundaries. A heartfelt chat over coffee stirs something in Jack. He confesses how much he’s missed the creative spark that building things for a purpose once gave him. His voice cracks slightly, and Emma feels a pang of recognition—she knows what it’s like to doubt yourself.

“You know,” she says softly, “you’re not the only one trying to figure things out.”

Jack’s eyes linger on hers, his expression a mix of gratitude and something deeper. For Emma, Neptune’s influence brings waves of nostalgia, making her question not just her shop’s survival but also her reasons for keeping everyone at arm’s length.

By December 15th, the Full Moon in Gemini at 23° brings clarity—but not without complications. A local business owner offers a generous donation in exchange for branding the event, but the idea doesn’t sit well with Emma. “It feels… off,” she admits to Jack, pacing the shop as she wrestles with the decision.

“Then don’t do it,” Jack says, leaning on the counter. “You’ve always been about integrity. Don’t let someone else define what this place stands for.”

Emma shakes her head, frustration bubbling over. “It’s easy for you to say. You’re not the one who’s about to lose everything. I can’t let this place fail. I can’t be a failure.”

The word lands like a stone between them. Jack’s expression hardens. “You think you’re the only one who’s ever failed?” he says quietly.

“That’s not what I meant,” Emma stammers, realizing too late how her words cut deeper than she intended.

“Doesn’t matter,” Jack replies, his voice tight. “I know what failure feels like, Emma. And I also know it doesn’t define you—unless you let it.”

Before she can respond, he grabs his coat and leaves, the door closing with a soft thud that feels far louder in the silence.

The argument weighs on Emma through the night, the Moon’s duality forcing her to confront the fear she hasn’t voiced. The next day, Jack shows up at the shop with the idea of accepting the donation but using it discreetly for practical upgrades. “We’ll make it work,” he says, his voice steady.

Emma nods, grateful but still shaken. “I didn’t mean to—what I said yesterday—”

“I know,” Jack interrupts gently, his gaze softening. “But don’t sell yourself short. You’re stronger than you think.”

His words linger, their tension easing as they refocus on the event.

As Mercury stations direct on December 16th, everything starts falling into place. Invitations are sent out, volunteers rally, and Jack finishes crafting the perfect stage for the storytelling night. Working side by side, their partnership begins to feel effortless, though the tension between them lingers—small moments where their hands brush or a glance lasts too long.

On December 24th, the Jupiter-Saturn square brings a pivotal test. A winter storm threatens to shut down the event entirely. “It’s over,” Emma sighs as cancellations roll in, her voice breaking.

Jack doesn’t hesitate. “We’ll go online,” he says firmly. His calm steadies her, and together they pivot, streaming the event live for the community. As the stories pour in, Emma watches Jack adjust the camera and handle tech glitches with ease. “You’re good at this,” she says, a soft smile breaking through her exhaustion.

“So are you,” he replies, meeting her eyes. This time, neither looks away.

The New Moon in Capricorn on December 30th seals their transformation. With the fundraiser’s success, Emma secures the lease, and The Storyline becomes a renewed hub for the town. Jack starts sketching plans for a small woodworking shop next door, inspired by their collaboration.

On New Year’s Eve, Chiron Stations Direct, and Emma invites Jack to celebrate their accomplishments with a quiet toast in the now-renovated bookstore, fresh with the new stage Jack built. Emma plans to host fun community improv classes and poetry readings in the new year. Strings of soft fairy lights cast a warm glow, and the scent of pine lingers from the small tree they decorated earlier in the day.

“To the bookstore,” Jack says, raising his glass.

“And to new beginnings,” Emma replies, her voice soft but steady, a flicker of something unspoken passing between them.

The conversation drifts as they talk about the event, the year, and the challenges they’ve faced. They sit close , the warm lighting drawing their faces into focus as they steal glances at each other. Outside, faint sounds of the town's celebration begin to stir—the countdown edging closer.

Emma hesitates, her voice quieter now. “I don’t think I could have done any of this without you.”

Jack tilts his head, a soft smile breaking through his usual stoicism. “You would’ve figured it out. But I’m glad I could help.”

She searches his face, her heart pounding with an unspoken question she can no longer keep inside. “Jack…”

Before she can finish, the muffled sound of the townsfolk erupts outside—the cheers and fireworks signaling midnight. Neither notices right away, too caught in the charged stillness between them. Without thinking, Jack leans in, and Emma closes the gap.

Their lips meet in a kiss that feels unplanned but entirely right. The noise of the world fades as they lose themselves in the moment, the weight of the past year melting away.

When they finally pull back, slightly breathless, the reality of the celebration outside filters in. Emma blinks, her cheeks flushing as she realizes. “It’s midnight.”

Jack grins, his hand lingering at the edge of her jaw. “Guess we just found a better way to celebrate.”

Emma laughs softly, her voice full of warmth. “Happy New Year, Jack.”

He brushes a strand of hair from her face, his grin turning tender. “Happy New Year, Emma.”

Through Emma and Jack’s journey, December’s astrological transits weave a tale of perseverance, creativity, and the undeniable pull of a second chance—both for love and life. 🌟

Do You Know Your Daimon Yet?

Big question: Is there a connection between our SOUL, and the classic concept of the Daimon, to the Lot of Fortune in our birth charts? I’d like to invite you on a daring adventure to try and figure out the answer to that question. Read on, if you accept!

(If you haven’t seen my video all about this Daimon idea, it’s linked here).

First off, what is a Daimon anyway? Let’s consult with a few guys who have been on the trail of the answer to that question for some time.

1. Plato (Classical Philosophy) AKA Play-Doh

In his dialogue Symposium, Plato describes the daimon as a bridge between gods and humans. It acts like an inner voice or conscience, helping people find knowledge and wisdom.

Key Quote: "The daimon is a kind of spiritual guardian, a divine messenger between humans and the gods."

2. Carl Jung (Psychology) AKA Carl Copperpot

Psychologist Carl Jung looked at the daimon in a psychological way, linking it to his ideas about the anima (feminine aspects of the self) and the shadow (hidden parts of the personality). Jung believed that confronting your daimon is essential for personal growth, as it shows both your potential and your internal struggles.

Key Quote: "Everyone carries a shadow, and the less it is embodied in the individual's conscious life, the blacker and denser it is."

3. James Hillman (Archetypal Psychology) AKA Two-Eyed Hilly

James Hillman, a student of Jung, expanded on the daimon in his book The Soul's Code. He argued that everyone is born with a unique daimon that defines their purpose in life. Hillman uses the "acorn theory" to illustrate that just like an oak tree is contained in an acorn, our potential is already within us at birth. The daimon guides us toward fulfilling our life’s purpose.

Key Quote: "You are here to be something. There’s an image inside of you, trying to express itself. This image is your personal daimon."

In my Youtube video, three additional Daimon wisdom dudes are referenced, but we will end with this mic drop quote from Plotinus above. The Daimon IS part of the path to knowing ourselves, which is ultimatly individuation, and understanding that makes us truly beautiful.

Secondly, what is the lot of fortune exactly?

The Lot of Fortune, or Part of Fortune, is a point in astrology that represents where you can find luck, abundance, and happiness in your life. It is calculated using the positions of the Sun, Moon, and Ascendant (the rising sign). Overall, it highlights where you might thrive and feel fulfilled in life.

Let’s look deeper into your LOF to see if this tracks…

The first step is locating the Lot of Fortune in your chart, which is marked by a circle with an x inside…X marks the spot, matey.

What house is it in? What sign is it in?

Instead of putting all those details in the email (it would be even longer than the intro to Baba O’Riley by the Who), you can check out this analysis of the LOF sign, houses, and aspects in this PDF from Astrology Basics here:

https://drive.google.com/file/d/12g6PMSq6UGMVBP-HaPADgU_JWeFjGY5b/view?usp=sharing

The next part of my theory for unpacking the LOF is to understand what planet rules it, what sign it’s in, what house, aspects, etc. I use traditional planetary rulers, but if you wanna use modern, that’s up to you of course. What resonates with you tends to work best.

Connecting the Dots…

So what do you think?

There are a lot of similarities between the Daimon and the Lot of Fortune, but I don’t think they are the same. My thought is that the LOF works like a clue, or a treasure map, to help you learn more about your Daimon.

The Daimon serves as an inner guide that helps connect with your true purpose, while the Lot of Fortune indicates areas in life where you may find luck and fulfillment. Both concepts emphasize self-awareness and personal growth, pointing to paths that lead to greater happiness and success, but that’s just the beginning.

It’s a work in progress, and I’d love to hear your thoughts on the subject if you wanna share.

BONUS: How about a Mixtape for our adventurous journey to understand the Daimon/LOF?

There was a ‘secret’ scene at the end of the Daimon video where I was listening to a song list with songs that apparently have correlation with the Daimon. Here’s the full list for you. All titles link to the music video on Youtube:

1. "Baba O'Riley" by The Who - Warning very LONG intro, but it’s a classic.
   This song captures youthful energy, purpose, and the journey toward meaning, symbolizing the daimon as a force pushing you toward your higher calling and inner drive.

2. "Running to Stand Still" by U2 - Possibly one of the best U2 songs ever
   The haunting, reflective quality of this song portrays the struggle of feeling trapped yet striving for transcendence, a symbolic push from the daimon to break through limitations.

3. "The Unforgiven" by Metallica - Starts with acoustic before the metal - neat!
   A powerful exploration of repression, personal struggle, and the desire for freedom, this song reflects the inner battle of aligning with one’s daimon against external or self-imposed constraints.

4. "Street Spirit (Fade Out)" by Radiohead - Typical Radiohead Awesomeness
   The existential and almost otherworldly tone of this song evokes the tension between surrender and transcendence, symbolizing the daimon’s guidance through darkness and the pursuit of deeper understanding.

5. "Hallelujah" by Jeff Buckley - Is it over played? Yeah, is it still awesome? You decide. I say, mostly yes, in the right context it can move ya to tears. Did you know there are like 27 or so verses to this song?
   A spiritual and emotional exploration, "Hallelujah" touches on the connection with something higher and deeper, echoing the daimon’s role as a guide toward inner wisdom and transcendence.

6. "Climbing Up the Walls" by Radiohead Wait, another Radiohead song? They must have been pretty hooked up with the Daimon vibe
   This song speaks to the darker, hidden aspects of the psyche and the confrontation with inner demons, much like working with the shadow side of the daimon and its transformative power.

7. "Heroes" by David Bowie He opens the song with a lyric about wanting to swim like a Dolphin. Pure genius. We could be heroes, forever and ever!
   An anthem of hope and transcendence, "Heroes" captures the feeling of rising beyond limitations and connecting with a greater purpose, embodying the daimon’s push toward transformation.

8. "Shadowplay" by Joy Division Ooooh this one starts out super cool, very 80s
   The song represents the dance between light and shadow, symbolizing the daimon’s darker, elusive aspects. It’s about searching for meaning within chaos, embodying the daimonic struggle for self-awareness.

9. "Wake Up" by Arcade Fire Some serious sing a long anthem action in this one - and excellent lyrics
   This anthem of awakening and transformation embodies the daimon as a force that pushes you to rise above complacency and align with your higher purpose.

10. "Man in the Mirror" by Michael Jackson Classic MJ keepin it real - this music video kinda goes hard to be honest…whew!
    A reflection on self-awareness and the power of change, this song captures the essence of the daimon as an inner prompting toward personal evolution and alignment with one's true self.

Well, that’s the end of this adventure, but maybe just the start of your adventure learning more about yourself.

Till next time, my fellow Goonies!

Your pal,

Lindsay (aka L Natale)

PS If you want to book a reading with me, I’d love to meet you:

Click to Book a Reading

Aries Full Moon October 2024 Rising Sign Horoscopes

Aries Rising

This Full Moon sparks a fire of ambition and action. It’s a time to embrace boldness and tackle any obstacles that have been holding you back. Much like navigating the winding paths of the Labyrinth, clarity and determination will lead the way to success. Trust in your ability to take the lead and forge ahead.

Taurus Rising

As the Full Moon illuminates your sector of dreams and inner desires, it prompts reflection on what truly matters. This is an opportunity to confront fears and release anything that no longer serves you. Just like traversing the murky depths of the Bog of Eternal Stench in Labyrinth, confronting your emotions can lead to transformative healing.

Gemini Rising

The spotlight shines on your friendships and social circles during this Full Moon. It's a great time to reassess connections and consider what brings joy and support. Like finding allies in Labyrinth, seek out those who uplift and inspire you to reach your potential. Collaboration may lead to exciting new adventures.

Cancer Rising

This Full Moon emphasizes your career and public image. It’s a call to action, encouraging you to pursue your ambitions with confidence. Much like the challenges encountered in Labyrinth, embracing obstacles can reveal hidden strengths and opportunities. Step into your power and showcase your unique talents.

Leo Rising

A sense of adventure washes over you during this Full Moon, inspiring a quest for knowledge or new experiences. It’s an ideal time to embrace exploration, whether through travel or learning. Just as the journey in Labyrinth showcases fantastical worlds, this energy invites you to expand your horizons and break free from routine.

Virgo Rising

The Full Moon highlights your sector of intimacy and shared resources, prompting a reassessment of emotional connections. Now is the time to let go of anything that hinders growth. Like the intricate relationships navigated in Labyrinth, understanding the depth of connections can lead to healing and renewal.

Libra Rising

This Full Moon focuses on partnerships and relationships, urging reflection on dynamics in your closest connections. It’s a moment to communicate and resolve any lingering issues. Much like the evolving interactions in Labyrinth, finding balance and understanding can lead to more harmonious relationships.

Scorpio Rising

Health and daily routines come into focus with this Full Moon. It’s a time to evaluate what nurtures you and what might need to be changed. Just as navigating challenges in Labyrinth requires adaptation, embrace this moment to realign with what supports your well-being and goals.

Sagittarius Rising

The Full Moon brings a playful energy, highlighting creativity and self-expression. It’s a wonderful time to indulge in hobbies or artistic pursuits. Like the imaginative journey in Labyrinth, let your inner child guide you toward joy and inspiration. Expressing yourself can open doors to new opportunities.

Capricorn Rising

This Full Moon illuminates your home and family life, encouraging a reassessment of personal foundations. It’s an opportunity to create balance and harmony within your living space. Much like the quest for belonging in Labyrinth, fostering a supportive environment can lead to deeper connections and fulfillment.

Aquarius Rising

Communication and self-expression take center stage with this Full Moon. It’s a time to share thoughts and ideas that have been brewing beneath the surface. Just as the journey through Labyrinth involves articulating desires and fears, expressing yourself authentically can lead to meaningful connections and breakthroughs.

Pisces Rising

The Full Moon emphasizes your values and financial stability, prompting reflection on what truly matters. It's a great time to evaluate resources and make any necessary adjustments. Like navigating through Labyrinth, understanding your worth and priorities can lead to newfound clarity and direction.

October Rising Sign Horoscopes - Eclipse and Pluto

Aries Rising

As Libra season casts its gentle glow, your relationships take the spotlight, illuminating both connections and conflicts. With Venus diving into your 8th house, deep emotions and power struggles could bubble up to the surface. This is a moment to confront what you've avoided in your closest partnerships, a chance to bring hidden dynamics into the light. The solar eclipse on October 2 whispers of revelation, urging you to unearth truths about how you share resources and trust others. It may expose patterns that require your attention. As Pluto stations in your 10th house, unresolved career tensions may surface, demanding your introspection. Remember, like Inanna, you’ve journeyed through trials before—use your wisdom from past struggles to navigate your way through this transformative phase.

Taurus Rising

With Venus, your chart ruler, gracing your 7th house of relationships, intensity surrounds your partnerships. This underworld descent calls for you to confront the shadows lurking in your connections. Expect challenges as power dynamics shift and evolve. The solar eclipse in Libra, a powerful harbinger of change, highlights your daily routines and how you care for yourself. It’s a moment to balance work with well-being, reassessing habits that may no longer serve your highest good. As Pluto’s direct motion in your 9th house nudges you to transform your worldview, you’re invited to strip away outdated beliefs. Like Inanna facing her sister, this is your call to grow through the darkness.

Gemini Rising

Venus enters your 6th house, encouraging a profound reconsideration of how you nurture yourself in everyday life. Like Inanna shedding her layers, this is a time to let go of habits that no longer serve your well-being. The solar eclipse on October 2 activates your 5th house of creativity, romance, and joy—a time to reassess what truly lights you up. This eclipse may prompt you to rediscover forgotten passions or re-engage with your inner child. With Pluto stirring in your 8th house, deep emotional waters rise, bringing old fears into your consciousness. It’s not the first time you’ve faced these challenges, but now, you possess the tools to confront them head-on, emerging with newfound strength.

Cancer Rising

As Venus moves into your 5th house of love and creativity, passion ignites, yet the need to address lingering power struggles in your relationships intensifies. Like Inanna venturing into the underworld, this is a time to explore the depths of your desires and creative impulses. The Libra eclipse on October 2 illuminates your 4th house of home and family, signaling significant shifts in your foundations. Expect revelations regarding family dynamics or emotional patterns that require your attention. With Pluto in your 7th house, unfinished business in partnerships may bubble to the surface, calling for resolution. This is a transformational time, and you have the strength to navigate it with grace and insight.

Leo Rising

Venus enters your 4th house of home, inviting you to confront emotional baggage and unresolved family dynamics. Like Inanna surrendering her symbols of power, you may need to relinquish control to find peace in your personal space. The solar eclipse in Libra lands in your 3rd house of communication, bringing clarity to old conversations and tensions, especially with siblings. This may manifest as a chance to articulate feelings that have long been suppressed. As Pluto stations direct in your 6th house, changes in your daily work environment are inevitable—be prepared for shifts that challenge your status quo. Stay grounded; you’ve faced these challenges before, and now, you can navigate them with renewed insight.

Virgo Rising

With Venus moving into your 3rd house, communication and your local environment come into focus. Prepare for deep conversations or potential power struggles with those close to you. Like Inanna facing her dark counterpart, you may have to confront difficult truths about how you express your needs. The solar eclipse on October 2 impacts your finances, nudging you to reconsider your relationship with your resources. Shifts in how you earn or value your assets may come to light, encouraging you to embrace a more empowered perspective. Pluto in your 5th house stirs old fears around creativity or romance, yet this descent into emotional depth holds the key to your rebirth.

Libra Rising

With Venus entering your 2nd house of values, you're invited to reassess your relationship with money, self-worth, and possessions. Like Inanna stripped of her power, you may need to release attachments that no longer serve you, creating space for new beginnings. The solar eclipse in your 1st house acts as a powerful reset for your identity, giving you a chance to redefine who you are and how you present yourself to the world. This may spark insights about your power and self-expression. Pluto in your 4th house brings unresolved family dynamics or deep-rooted fears to the surface. Yet, like Inanna, you’ll emerge from this transformative period stronger and more self-aware, ready to shine your light.

Scorpio Rising

As Venus enters your 1st house, personal transformation becomes your guiding theme. You embody Inanna’s descent into the underworld—a time to shed outdated identities and embrace a more authentic version of yourself. The solar eclipse on October 2 invites you to release subconscious fears or hidden burdens that have long held you back. This eclipse may reveal deep insights into your inner workings, prompting you to let go of what no longer serves your highest self. With Pluto stirring in your 3rd house, unresolved communication issues or sibling relationships may demand your attention. This isn’t your first journey into the underworld; use the wisdom you've gained from past descents to navigate this transformative phase with confidence.

Sagittarius Rising

Venus flows into your 12th house, the realm of solitude and spirituality. This is your underworld season—like Inanna, you’ll be called to confront your shadow self. The solar eclipse on October 2 illuminates your 11th house of friendships and social circles, prompting shifts in your connections. Old relationships may fade out, making room for new, more aligned ones to enter your life. This eclipse encourages you to reflect on your social ties and the impact they have on your personal growth. With Pluto in your 2nd house, financial issues may arise, but this is also an opportunity to transform your relationship with money. Like Inanna, you’ll rise from this season of introspection, empowered and renewed.

Capricorn Rising

As Venus graces your 11th house of friendships and long-term goals, it’s time to reassess your social circle. Power struggles could surface, urging you to reflect on who you align with and why. Like Inanna, shedding what no longer fits becomes essential for your rise. The solar eclipse on October 2 highlights your 10th house of career, signaling shifts in your public image or professional path. This eclipse may unveil new opportunities or redirect your ambitions in unexpected ways. As Pluto stations direct in your 1st house, deep personal transformation beckons. Embrace this descent into self-discovery, for it is the precursor to your rebirth—step into your power with courage.

Aquarius Rising

Venus enters your 10th house, prompting you to confront issues in your career or public image. Like Inanna descending into the underworld, you may find yourself shedding an old role to step into a new one, forging a path toward authenticity. The solar eclipse in Libra activates your 9th house of beliefs and higher learning, urging you to reevaluate your worldview. This eclipse may spark profound insights that challenge your perspectives, encouraging growth and exploration. With Pluto in your 12th house, subconscious fears or past karmic patterns may resurface. Yet just like Inanna, you’ll emerge from this period clearer and more empowered, ready to embrace your unique path.

Pisces Rising

Venus flows into your 9th house, inviting you to explore deep spiritual truths and distant horizons. This is your time to dive into the unknown, much like Inanna entering the underworld in search of deeper understanding. The solar eclipse in Libra lands in your 8th house of shared resources, signaling transformative shifts in how you share with others—whether that’s finances, emotional vulnerability, or intimate connections. This eclipse encourages you to examine your bonds and how they serve your growth. With Pluto in your 11th house, unresolved issues in friendships may come to the fore, but this is part of your journey toward authentic connection. Embrace these changes as stepping stones toward a deeper understanding of your relationships and self.

Pisces Eclipse Rising Sign Horoscopes: Looking Ahead

Aries Rising

The eclipse highlights a significant chapter of emotional closure that has been brewing beneath the surface for some time. You may feel old wounds, unconscious fears, or unresolved issues rising to the surface, begging for release. It’s like turning a spotlight onto the dusty corners of your subconscious, asking you to confront what’s been left in the shadows. This is a time to let go of internal baggage that’s been holding you back—whether it’s anger, guilt, or self-doubt.
Spiritually, this is a profound moment of surrender, where you’re learning that true strength doesn’t always come from action but from allowing yourself to rest, reflect, and simply be. As you face this inner landscape, you might realize how much lighter you feel once these emotional burdens are lifted.
Looking Ahead: As you release these hidden emotions, consider rebuilding your inner peace. Look ahead by incorporating grounding practices like journaling, meditation, or working with a therapist. Spiritually, this is the time to reconnect with your intuition and trust the quiet wisdom within. As you clear away the old, you’re making room for a deeper sense of inner resilience that will guide you moving forward.
Journal Prompt: What thoughts or emotions have I been avoiding? How can I create space to process and release them in a way that strengthens my sense of peace?

Taurus Rising

This eclipse signals a turning point in your social world, where you may feel the need to release friendships or connections that no longer resonate with your values. Some relationships, particularly those within your broader network or community, may naturally come to an end. It’s not necessarily about conflict but more about outgrowing certain dynamics as you evolve.
Spiritually, this is an opportunity to realign with people and groups that support your higher purpose. As you move forward, ask yourself whether your connections inspire growth or drain your energy. Letting go of outdated affiliations will open space for new, like-minded individuals who resonate more deeply with your soul’s path.
Looking Ahead: Now is the time to reflect on how you can create a stronger support system that reflects the person you are becoming. Consider joining groups, communities, or workshops that align with your spiritual and personal values. You’re being called to build connections that will inspire and support your spiritual journey moving forward.
Journal Prompt: Which relationships or communities no longer align with my values, and how can I create space for connections that nourish my soul?

Gemini Rising

Career and professional identity come into focus during this eclipse, bringing closures or transitions in your work life. If you’ve been feeling disconnected from your career path or uninspired by your current role, this could be the time when things start shifting. You may finally close the door on an outdated professional identity that no longer reflects your evolving self.
Spiritually, this eclipse asks you to realign your career with your deeper purpose. Are you pursuing work that fulfills your soul, or are you just following a path of obligation? This is a chance to reimagine your professional life in a way that not only supports your material needs but also nurtures your spiritual growth.
Looking Ahead: Consider where you want to go next in your career. What kind of work lights you up? Think about ways to align your professional goals with your inner calling. Even small steps toward a career that feels spiritually fulfilling will set you on the right path.
Journal Prompt: What would my ideal career look like if it were fully aligned with my spiritual values and personal growth?

Cancer Rising

The eclipse shines a light on your beliefs, values, and long-held perspectives. You may find that you are ready to release certain outdated beliefs that no longer serve your spiritual journey. Perhaps you’ve been holding onto a rigid worldview or philosophy that’s kept you feeling limited or stuck. This is the time to let those beliefs go and make space for new, more expansive perspectives to enter.
Spiritually, this is an awakening moment for you. You may feel called to explore different belief systems, spiritual practices, or philosophies that broaden your horizons. It’s a reminder that growth comes from being open to new ideas and experiences.
Looking Ahead: Start exploring ways to expand your mind and your spirit. Whether it’s through travel, education, or spiritual exploration, look for opportunities that stretch your understanding of the world. This could be the perfect time to start studying a new spiritual practice or dive deeper into a subject that intrigues your soul.
Journal Prompt: Which belief or worldview am I ready to let go of, and how can I invite new wisdom that supports my spiritual growth?

Leo Rising

This eclipse may bring to light emotional entanglements, financial obligations, or debts—both material and emotional—that are ready for resolution. It’s a time to reflect on shared resources, intimate relationships, and the ways in which you’ve been investing your energy. You may find that certain financial or emotional ties need to be released in order to free up space for healthier connections.
Spiritually, this is a transformative time. By releasing what no longer serves you, whether it’s an old financial burden or emotional baggage, you make room for more profound intimacy and deeper connections. It’s a reminder that true power lies in letting go.
Looking Ahead: As you step out of these entanglements, think about how you can build stronger emotional and financial foundations moving forward. This might involve creating clearer boundaries in your relationships or finding new ways to manage your resources. Spiritually, this is a moment to connect with practices that empower you, like meditation, shadow work, or energy healing.
Journal Prompt: What emotional or financial burdens am I ready to release, and how can I create healthier boundaries in my relationships?

Virgo Rising

Relationships are under the microscope during this eclipse, especially significant partnerships. Whether in love or business, this is a time to reassess the balance within these connections. You may experience the closure of a partnership that no longer aligns with your personal growth, or you might find that it’s time to transform a current relationship into something more authentic and aligned.
Spiritually, this eclipse offers you a mirror through your relationships. How you engage with others often reflects how you engage with yourself. Letting go of dynamics that no longer work will allow for healthier, more spiritually fulfilling relationships to enter your life.
Looking Ahead: Moving forward, focus on relationships that offer balance, mutual respect, and support. This is the time to nurture those connections that align with your personal and spiritual values. Whether through deepening an existing relationship or opening up to new ones, you’re creating space for meaningful bonds that reflect your inner growth.
Journal Prompt: How do my relationships reflect my spiritual journey, and what changes can I make to create more balanced, fulfilling connections?

Libra Rising

Your daily life and habits are in the spotlight during this eclipse. If you’ve been caught in routines that drain your energy or have neglected your physical well-being, this is the time to detox and release what’s no longer working. You may feel called to make significant changes in how you care for your body and manage your time.
Spiritually, this eclipse reminds you that your daily routines are a reflection of your inner life. By releasing old habits, you make room for practices that nourish your body, mind, and spirit.
Looking Ahead: As you step into a new phase, think about how you can incorporate practices that support both your physical health and spiritual growth. This could mean adopting a new wellness routine, starting a meditation practice, or simply becoming more mindful of your daily habits.
Journal Prompt: What habits or routines no longer serve my well-being, and how can I replace them with practices that support my mind, body, and spirit?

Scorpio Rising

Creative projects or romantic endeavors that have felt stuck may begin to come to a close. If you’ve been pouring energy into something that no longer feels fulfilling, this eclipse is your cue to release it. The same goes for any romantic connections that aren’t aligning with your true self.
Spiritually, this eclipse marks the beginning of a creative and emotional rebirth. Letting go of old blocks allows your authentic self to shine through. Your creativity and passion are deeply linked to your spiritual growth, so as you release what no longer serves you, you’ll find yourself stepping into a more inspired and aligned version of yourself.
Looking Ahead: Look forward by finding new ways to express yourself creatively and emotionally. Whether it’s through art, a hobby, or a romantic connection, focus on what brings you joy. Spiritually, this is the time to reconnect with the things that make you feel alive and allow your creativity to flourish.
Journal Prompt: What creative outlets or romantic connections bring me joy, and how can I nurture them in a way that supports my spiritual growth?

Sagittarius Rising

Your home life and emotional foundation come into focus during this eclipse, which may bring closures related to family dynamics or even a move. This could be a time of emotional release as old wounds connected to your family or past resurface for healing. Whether it’s letting go of a physical home or an emotional pattern, this eclipse is about creating space for something more nurturing.
Spiritually, this is about finding a sense of inner sanctuary. You are being called to create a home environment—both internally and externally—that supports your emotional and spiritual well-being.
Looking Ahead: As you move forward, focus on creating a space, both physically and emotionally, that feels like a sanctuary. This could involve decluttering your home, creating a sacred space for spiritual practice, or working on emotional boundaries with family members.
Journal Prompt: What does a nurturing, emotionally safe home look and feel like to me, and how can I start creating that space in my life?

Capricorn Rising

The eclipse illuminates how you communicate and process information. You may find that old ways of thinking or speaking no longer align with who you are becoming. Perhaps you've been stuck in a pattern of overthinking or have been holding back from expressing your truth. This is the time to release mental clutter and patterns of communication that limit your growth.
Spiritually, this is an invitation to cultivate clarity and authenticity in your communication. How you speak to yourself and others is a reflection of your inner world, so clearing out old patterns will help you align with a more intentional, spiritually centered approach.
Looking Ahead: Moving forward, focus on how you can communicate more clearly and authentically. Whether it’s through writing, speaking, or simply being more mindful of your thoughts, this is a chance to align your inner voice with your higher purpose.
Journal Prompt: What old communication patterns or limiting beliefs am I ready to release, and how can I express myself with more authenticity and intention?

Aquarius Rising

This eclipse highlights your relationship with money, values, and self-worth. You may find that old financial obligations or material attachments are ready to be released. Whether it’s a debt, a financial partnership, or a belief about your own worth, this eclipse is about letting go of what no longer serves your sense of security.
Spiritually, this is a time to reflect on how your material resources align with your deeper values. Are you spending and investing in ways that reflect your soul’s purpose? This eclipse asks you to reassess what abundance really means to you on a spiritual level.
Looking Ahead: As you move forward, think about how you can align your financial life with your spiritual values. This could mean making investments—both material and emotional—that support your long-term goals.
Journal Prompt: What do I truly value, both financially and spiritually, and how can I align my resources with these deeper priorities?

Pisces Rising

With this eclipse happening in your sign, it’s a deeply personal time of transformation. You may feel a significant shift in how you view yourself and your identity. Old versions of who you thought you were may begin to fall away, making space for a more authentic expression of your true self. This is a powerful time of spiritual rebirth.
Spiritually, this eclipse offers you a chance to reconnect with your true essence. Letting go of old identities or labels that no longer resonate allows you to step into your higher self. This is a moment of profound self-discovery.
Looking Ahead: As you move forward, focus on embracing the person you are becoming. What practices or routines can help you stay connected to your authentic self? This is the time to nurture your spiritual growth by exploring practices that help you stay grounded and aligned with your higher purpose.
Journal Prompt: What aspects of my identity no longer resonate with me, and how can I embrace the next version of myself in a way that feels spiritually aligned?

Astro-Retreat: Solar Return in the Mountains

Hello :)

It’s incredible to think of all the ways people are creative. In the ‘art’ category alone, I could make a list that goes on forever like Bubba in Forrest Gump with shrimp recipes: writing art, painting art, woodworking art, drawing art, digital art, sculpture art, knitting art, bead work art, singing art, needle point art, culinary art…ok, lol, I’ll stop there, but the list goes on and on, as you know.

So what is your favorite way of being creative?

This past week I had the opportunity to be immersed in a creative retreat experience in the foothills of the Rocky Mountains in Colorado. I was invited by Heather Matthews, owner of Kestrel Fields Studio and Art Residency in Fort Collins, to collaborate on some videos, and experience my own personal creative retreat in the residency.

The photo below is where I stayed. The Kestrel Fields Studio building rests on the edge of a stunning nature preserve with walking trails surrounding an organic farm.

Look at this breathtaking sunrise…

One morning, I went for a walk around the field, and I never wanted to leave this magic. Several of my next astrology videos on Youtube will feature this special place and Kestrel Fields Studio :).

So what does any of this have to do with astrology?

My genuine perspective is that everything is astrology, and life is a continuous metaphor of the archetypes coded into the zodiac and planets. More personally, Heather has been getting yearly astrological readings from me for the past several years around her birthday.

It’s been a privilege to see Heather explore the energies in her chart and co-create with them. One of her biggest dreams - supporting creative people, while simultaneously providing space for nurturing and genuine community - refused to be ignored right around Heather’s Uranus Opposition transit. In this period of time, she took the leap to follow her most authentic desires, and created the Kestrel Fields Studio and Art Residency.

What is a Uranus Opposition anyway?

The Uranus Opposition is when transiting Uranus comes into an opposition aspect with your natal Uranus position. Everyone has this Opposition (Genius Transit) sometime between ages 38 and 44, depending on their chart. It is a time of authentic rebellion and a reckoning with some roads less traveled.

Wanting to explore and talk about the U.O. was why I went deeper into astrology and took the leap to start a Youtube channel. At the time, I was reckoning with my own U.O. and NOBODY seemed to be talking about it. There are three big outer planet transits everyone gets around this time of life which are eloquently lumped together as the ‘mid-life crisis’ transits. Most of them are still not talked about much.

Anyways, learning about this once in a lifetime transit just as it was coming onto my horizon made all the difference in the world in my path forward. It pointed me towards authentic personal expression, and opened unexpectedly beautiful doors when I took the risks required.

This retreat space is designed for all types of artists, crafters, and creators. You can paint, print, or write poetry. You can dance, sing, draw, or make videos. Really the artistic options are beautifully up to you, but this space can do it all. It is like the Room of Requirement in the Harry Potter stories, if you know what I mean - whatever you need it to be, this space easily becomes.

Besides collaborating on Youtube videos with Heather and editing adventures, my personal goal for this creative retreat was to contemplate and create a new vision board for my upcoming solar return in September (AKA my birthday).

The past several years I have been honing in on my practice of using the astrology of a solar return chart, the sabian symbol of the SRC ascendent, and the Hellenistic astrology technique of Annual Profection houses/planetary rulers to guide this manifestation board. After analyzing these elements, I turn to intuition for the images, colors, and words to fill out the board. Included in the final product are symbols of things I want to embody, incorporate, or accomplish over the year to come.

This year was different than the others because I took deliberate time away to become one with my astrological creative process. The practice of creating this visual totem for the next year blossomed with a luscious sacred tone here, and I saw clearly, that life is art.

This was my very first retreat experience, and after having it, I KNOW it won’t be my last.

If this is something that speaks to you, and you would like to learn more about booking a creative or artistic retreat, Heather has generously offered a discount for your retreat, which is already priced at an incredible value for what you get.

Just mention you heard about Kestrel Fields Studio Art Residency and Retreat from L Natale in your contact form on her website, and it shall be done. https://kestrelfieldstudio.com/

Also, if you would like to book an astrological reading with me, I have bookings open starting late October and into the new year. I am offering a Solar Return discount code for you.

Just click here, LNatale.com, and put in the code Kestrel in the redeem coupon box to get the discount. The Code is valid until October 6th, 2024, but you can book a reading for anytime in the future with this code.

With tons of gratitude,

Lindsay

PS - This is a little video Heather and I worked on while I was in residency at Kestrel Fields Studio :) Cheers to creativity!

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Virgo New Moon Stoic-Style Horoscopes

Aries Rising:

Stoic Analogy: "A fire tests gold, suffering tests brave men." – Seneca

With the Virgo New Moon highlighting your daily routines and health, consider this time an opportunity to refine your habits. Just like Seneca’s analogy of fire purifying gold, this phase is about making small adjustments that strengthen your daily life. Focus on practical changes—improving your diet, organizing your space, or sticking to a workout plan. These efforts might seem challenging, but they’re building resilience and strength.

Embrace these changes as a way to enhance your daily routine. It’s not just about checking tasks off a list; it’s about creating a more balanced and fulfilling life. By focusing on these incremental improvements, you’ll emerge stronger and more resilient.

Taurus Rising:

Stoic Analogy: "Wealth consists not in having great possessions, but in having few wants." – Epictetus

The New Moon in Virgo is spotlighting your creativity and pleasures. Epictetus’s wisdom about wealth highlights that true contentment comes from appreciating what you have rather than acquiring more. Use this time to focus on the simple joys and creative pursuits that genuinely make you happy. It’s about finding satisfaction in the little things rather than chasing after big, flashy goals.

Instead of seeking external validation or material gain, find joy in the everyday moments and meaningful experiences. This New Moon invites you to embrace simplicity and appreciate what you already have, leading to a deeper sense of fulfillment.

Gemini Rising:

Stoic Analogy: "The happiness of your life depends upon the quality of your thoughts." – Marcus Aurelius

With the Virgo New Moon affecting your home and family, it’s an ideal time to clear mental clutter and focus on what matters. Marcus Aurelius’s insight about thoughts shaping happiness is particularly relevant now. Think of this as giving your mind a good cleanse—eliminate negativity and make room for positive, constructive thoughts.

Creating a peaceful and organized home environment will support mental clarity and overall well-being. By focusing on positive thinking and aligning your thoughts with what brings joy, you’ll transform your daily life and enhance your sense of happiness.

Cancer Rising:

Stoic Analogy: "No man is free who is not master of himself." – Epictetus

The Virgo New Moon is highlighting your communication and learning. Epictetus’s advice about self-mastery is essential at this time. This is a great opportunity to refine how you express yourself and manage your thoughts. Whether it’s through improving communication skills or diving into new learning experiences, focus on aligning your words and actions with your core values.

Use this lunar energy to take control of your self-expression and intellectual growth. By mastering how you communicate and think, you’ll gain greater freedom and clarity in your interactions and personal development.

Leo Rising:

Stoic Analogy: "It is not what happens to you, but how you react to it that matters." – Epictetus

The New Moon in Virgo is focusing on your finances and self-worth. Epictetus’s perspective on reaction versus circumstance is especially relevant. This phase is a chance to reassess your financial situation and self-esteem. Remember, it’s not about the external events but about how you handle them.

When challenges arise, approach them with calm and wisdom. Make smart decisions about your resources and focus on maintaining a positive outlook. Your responses and choices will shape your financial stability and self-worth in the long run.

Virgo Rising:

Stoic Analogy: "Waste no more time arguing about what a good man should be. Be one." – Marcus Aurelius

With the New Moon in your first house, this is your time to focus on personal growth. Marcus Aurelius’s advice to embody virtues rather than just discuss them is perfect for this moment. It’s a great opportunity to make practical changes that reflect your highest self. Instead of getting bogged down in debates about what you should be, start living out the qualities you admire.

Use this New Moon to make tangible progress toward becoming the best version of yourself. It’s all about taking action and making meaningful changes, rather than overthinking. Embrace this phase to improve yourself and live authentically.

Libra Rising:

Stoic Analogy: "He who is brave is free." – Seneca

The New Moon is illuminating your inner world and hidden fears. Seneca’s wisdom about bravery and freedom fits perfectly here. Use this time to confront and release any fears or emotional baggage. It’s like doing a deep clean of your emotional space—facing what’s been holding you back will help you grow.

Approach this process with courage and openness. By tackling your inner challenges, you’ll find a new sense of freedom and clarity. This is a powerful opportunity to let go of what no longer serves you and make way for personal transformation.

Scorpio Rising:

Stoic Analogy: "The best revenge is not to be like your enemy." – Marcus Aurelius

With the New Moon focusing on your friendships and goals, Marcus Aurelius’s advice to rise above negativity is spot on. If you’re dealing with tricky social situations or conflicts, don’t let them drag you down. Instead, focus on building positive relationships and pursuing goals that inspire you.

This New Moon is an opportunity to surround yourself with supportive people and maintain your integrity. Concentrate on aligning with those who uplift you and avoid letting negativity influence your path. Stay true to your values and focus on your aspirations.

Sagittarius Rising:

Stoic Analogy: "Luck is what happens when preparation meets opportunity." – Seneca

The New Moon in Virgo is energizing your career and public life. Seneca’s thoughts on luck and preparation are perfect for this phase. Use this time to get your professional goals and strategies in order. It’s all about being ready so that when opportunities come your way, you’re prepared to seize them.

Focus on planning and preparation now, as this will set you up for future success. By staying organized and proactive, you’ll create your own luck and open doors to new achievements. Make the most of this New Moon to lay the groundwork for your career growth.

Capricorn Rising:

Stoic Analogy: "To live a good life: We have the potential for it. If we learn to be indifferent to what makes no difference." – Marcus Aurelius

The New Moon is highlighting your higher learning and belief systems. Marcus Aurelius’s advice to be indifferent to what doesn’t matter is especially relevant now. Use this time to refine your philosophies and expand your understanding, while letting go of distractions and irrelevant concerns.

Focus on what truly aligns with your values and ignore what doesn’t contribute to your growth. By staying focused on what matters most, you’ll gain more clarity and direction. This New Moon is an opportunity to align your beliefs with your personal growth and let go of anything that doesn’t serve you.

Aquarius Rising:

Stoic Analogy: "Begin at once to live, and count each separate day as a separate life." – Seneca

The New Moon is energizing your transformation and shared resources zone. Seneca’s call to live fully in each day is a great guide for you right now. Use this time to tackle personal transformations or financial changes with a fresh perspective. Don’t wait for the perfect moment—start now.

Each day offers a new chance to make positive changes and embrace transformation. By focusing on living fully and making the most of each day, you’ll set yourself up for meaningful progress and growth. Embrace this New Moon as an opportunity to create the future you want.

Pisces Rising:

Stoic Analogy: "The whole future lies in uncertainty: live immediately." – Seneca

The New Moon is shining on your relationships and partnerships. Seneca’s wisdom about embracing uncertainty is perfect for this phase. Instead of stressing about what might happen in the future, focus on being present and nurturing your connections.

This is a great time to strengthen your relationships with honesty and authenticity. By living in the moment and fostering genuine connections, you’ll build a solid foundation for the future. Embrace the present and let go of future anxieties, focusing on creating meaningful and supportive relationships.

Pluto - One MORE Time Horoscopes

Capricorn Rising:

Analogy: “Your foundation is being upgraded—think of it like renovating your dream home while still living in it.”

As Pluto makes its last stand in your first house, Capricorn, it’s like that final push to finish a major home renovation. You’ve been tearing down walls, rebuilding, and restructuring your life for years now, and this is the moment when you see the results. But just when you think the dust has settled, there might be a few more unexpected twists. This period is all about solidifying the changes you've made—whether it's your identity, your career, or your long-term goals. Prepare to put the finishing touches on your personal transformation, ensuring that your new foundation is rock solid before Pluto moves on to your second house and shifts its focus to your finances and values.

Aquarius Rising:

Analogy: “Imagine you’re on the cusp of launching a revolutionary new app, but first, you’ve got to deal with the final glitches in the old system.”

For Aquarius Rising, Pluto’s final days in Capricorn occur in your twelfth house, the realm of the subconscious, endings, and hidden matters. It's like you’ve been debugging the old software that runs in the background of your mind, clearing out the glitches that have held you back. This is the time to confront any last bits of unfinished business—whether it’s past fears, old habits, or even lingering secrets. Think of it as a cosmic detox. As Pluto prepares to enter your first house, the energy will shift dramatically, bringing you into a phase of personal empowerment and transformation. But before that can happen, you need to wrap up the old chapter, ensuring that you’re truly ready to step into the spotlight.

Pisces Rising:

Analogy: “You’re about to set sail on a new adventure, but first, you need to choose your crew wisely.”

Pluto’s final run through Capricorn lights up your eleventh house, which governs friendships, social networks, and long-term aspirations. Imagine you’re preparing for an epic voyage—you’re finalizing the crew, plotting the course, and making sure everyone is on the same page. This is a time to review your connections and the groups you associate with. Are they aligned with your true goals? Are your aspirations reflective of who you’ve become? You may find that some relationships or alliances no longer serve your higher purpose, and it’s time to make some tough but necessary decisions. Once Pluto moves into your twelfth house, you’ll begin a more introspective journey, but for now, focus on setting the stage for the next big chapter in your social and professional life.

Aries Rising:

Analogy: “You’re the hero of your own epic movie, but before the grand finale, there’s one last battle to win.”

With Pluto making its final push through Capricorn, it’s lighting up your tenth house of career and public reputation. It’s like you’ve been on an intense quest to establish yourself in the world, facing challenges that have tested your strength and determination. Now, as you approach the climax of this journey, you might encounter a final test. This is the time to solidify your legacy—whether it's a career milestone, a public achievement, or a significant leadership role. As Pluto prepares to move into Aquarius and your eleventh house, the focus will shift to your broader goals and social circles, but first, you need to conquer this last challenge and cement your place in the world.

Taurus Rising:

Analogy: “You’ve been on a long educational journey, like earning a degree in the school of life, and now it’s time to write your thesis.”

Pluto’s final stretch in Capricorn occurs in your ninth house, the domain of higher learning, travel, and philosophical beliefs. Think of this as the culmination of a long period of study and exploration, where you’ve been gathering wisdom, expanding your horizons, and challenging your worldviews. Now, it’s time to synthesize everything you’ve learned and apply it to your life. This might involve making a big decision about your future direction—whether it’s related to education, a long-distance move, or a major belief system. As Pluto moves into Aquarius and your tenth house, your focus will shift to putting this newfound wisdom into action in your career and public life, but for now, concentrate on wrapping up this important chapter of personal growth.

Gemini Rising:

Analogy: “You’ve been deep-sea diving, exploring the depths of your emotional ocean, and now it’s time to bring those treasures to the surface.”

For Gemini Rising, Pluto’s last pass through Capricorn takes place in your eighth house, the realm of transformation shared resources, and deep psychological processes. It’s like you’ve been on an intense dive into the hidden parts of yourself, facing fears, desires, and deep emotional truths. This is the time to bring those insights to the surface and integrate them into your life. You might need to address any lingering financial or emotional entanglements or finalize a transformative process that’s been in the works for some time. As Pluto moves into Aquarius and your ninth house, you’ll be ready to expand your horizons and explore new ideas, but first, make sure you’ve fully processed and resolved what’s been uncovered in the depths.

Cancer Rising:

Analogy: “Your relationships have been like a garden—you’ve been weeding, pruning, and now it’s time to see what blossoms.”

With Pluto’s final moments in Capricorn affecting your seventh house of partnerships, it’s like you’ve been tending to the garden of your closest relationships, removing what no longer serves and nurturing what does. Now, it’s time to take a step back and see what has flourished. You might face a final challenge or decision in a significant partnership—whether it’s romantic, business-related, or a close friendship. This is your moment to solidify the relationships that are built to last and release those that aren’t. As Pluto moves into Aquarius and your eighth house, the focus will shift to deeper emotional connections and shared resources, but first, make sure your garden is in full bloom.

Leo Rising:

Analogy: “You’ve been perfecting your craft like an artist working on a masterpiece, and now it’s time for the final touches.”

Pluto’s final transit through Capricorn occurs in your sixth house, which rules daily routines, work, and health. Imagine you’ve been diligently working on a detailed masterpiece, refining your skills and perfecting your craft. Now, it’s time to put the finishing touches on this creation. This period might involve a final push to improve your health, streamline your work processes, or make necessary changes in your daily life. It’s about ensuring that your routines are sustainable and that your hard work pays off. As Pluto moves into Aquarius and your seventh house, relationships will come into focus, but first, make sure you’ve mastered the art of your daily life.

Virgo Rising:

Analogy: “Your creative project has been like raising a child—now it’s time to let it out into the world.”

Pluto’s last journey through Capricorn activates your fifth house, which governs creativity, romance, and personal expression. It’s like you’ve been nurturing a creative project, a romantic relationship, or even a new passion, much like raising a child. Now, it’s time to see if it can stand on its own. You might face a final challenge in bringing something you care deeply about to fruition or deciding how to best express your true self. This is a moment to step into your creative power and let your light shine. As Pluto moves into Aquarius and your sixth house, the focus will shift to refining your daily life and work habits, but for now, enjoy the spotlight and let your creative efforts take center stage.

Libra Rising:

Analogy: “You’ve been renovating your inner sanctuary, and now it’s time to ensure it’s a place of true peace and security.”

For Libra Rising, Pluto’s final pass through Capricorn highlights your fourth house of home, family, and emotional foundations. Imagine you’ve been renovating your inner and outer home, making it a place where you can truly feel safe and secure. This period is about finalizing those renovations, whether it’s healing old family wounds, solidifying your living situation, or strengthening your emotional foundations. You might need to confront any lingering issues related to your past or your home life, but once you do, you’ll be ready to move forward with a sense of stability and peace. As Pluto moves into Aquarius and your fifth house, your focus will shift to creativity and personal expression, but first, make sure your inner sanctuary is truly a place of comfort and strength.

Scorpio Rising:

Analogy: “Your words have been like seeds—now it’s time to see what’s grown and what needs replanting.”

Pluto’s final stretch through Capricorn illuminates your third house, which rules communication, learning, and your immediate environment. It’s like you’ve been planting seeds with your words, thoughts, and ideas, nurturing them to see what takes root. Now, it’s time to review the results. Are there conversations you need to revisit, ideas that need refining, or connections in your local community that need strengthening? This is your moment to ensure that what you’ve been cultivating in your mind and environment is aligned with your deeper goals. As Pluto moves into Aquarius and your fourth house, the focus will shift to home and family, but for now, make sure your mental garden is flourishing.

Sagittarius Rising:

Analogy: “You’ve been investing in your future like planting a financial orchard—now it’s time to harvest.”

Pluto’s final days in Capricorn take place in your second house of finances, values, and personal resources. Think of this as the culmination of years of financial and value-driven decisions, much like tending to an orchard where you’ve carefully planted and nurtured your resources. Now, it’s time to see what’s ready for harvest. You might need to make final adjustments to your financial strategies, reassess what truly holds value in your life, or make important decisions about how you manage your resources. As Pluto prepares to move into Aquarius and your third house, communication and learning will come into focus, but first, ensure that your financial and personal values are on solid ground.

Pluto's Shift and Five Powerful Questions for Transformation

Pluto is the planet of ultimate control, power, and transformation.

Pluto moving into a new sign is one of the more significant markers of major change in our human world, and it doesn’t happen very often. Pluto has an asymmetrical orbit around the sun, so it spends more time in some signs than others. Pluto has been in Capricorn since 2008, about 15 years, and it will enter Aquarius fully, with no more retrogrades, in November 2024. It will be there until 2043, which is about 19 years, so this will open a new chapter in what Pluto is working on radically transforming.

Looking back, Pluto in Capricorn has been process of deconstructing authority figures, social order, and conformity - and it ain’t over yet - the grand finale is coming up as we look ahead into 2024. As for the Capricorn story, there has been a desire to hold on to some consensus about what is real, important, and acceptable - letting go of the ties that bind our strong practical ideals has been part of the story. Lots of fighting, and people want to hold on to their ideas and ideals of what makes them feel grounded.

Let’s look back in time a bit and consider the timing of Pluto entering Capricorn in 2008…that was the year of the great recession, the subprime mortgage bubble burst, and the bailout of the banks, and when all of that happened, it was considered too big to fail, so a bandaid was put on many problems and institutions that were overbloated and outdated. They weren’t allowed to die, so they were fed the essence of something innocent, like the Skesis eating souls in the Dark Crystal movie. Anyways, as Pluto is at end degrees of Capricorn, we are at the very precipice of another major economic event, bank closures, and the effects of that last major real estate bubble that has priced most Americans out of buying a property of their own, and of course a lot of instability in global politics. There is a divide so deep between so many people, and it’s almost impossible to comprehend anything other than adversity when someone disagrees with another person’s idea of reality and right.

This is what Pluto does - it is a complete breakdown of our set-in-stone reality. There have been things happening in our world that most of us would have never imagined happening, but they did, and there’s more to come.

Pluto ending its run in Capricorn, and opening up Aquarius has been marked by several major breaches of the old system - of course, we had the 1776 revolution in the USA, where the colonists broke away from England. In the cycle before that, the British Monarchy parted ways with the Pope and the Catholic church which was very significant, In 1279, the time before that, Kubli Kahn, the son of Mongolian leader Ghengis Kahn, defeated the last resistance of the Southern Song dynasty, making Kublai the first foreign conqueror to rule all of China.

It’s a time of big moves, big reversals, and doorways into new realities. So our strongholds are getting transformed and because we can see the writing on the wall, looking at major patterns of historical significance, we can start to prepare ourselves for the transition.

How, you ask? Well, it is going to be a conscious effort, and for some of us, it will be more difficult than others. That’s the essence of plutonic experiences - they are custom-made to disintegrate and degrade things each of us individually needs to let go of in some way or another. When we are particularly distressed, the conceptual part of our brains tends to turn off, this is called cognitive shock. It makes it very hard to think clearly, so the ‘older’ part of our brain based on survival and defense becomes the captain of our ships. Now this is a captain that has something to protect, something to fight for, so when it is in charge we are more likely to lash out, attack and argue, or protect the ship by withdrawing, going numb, and checking out. Either reaction is not helpful to get your ship righted again.

That being said, I have a set of five powerful questions I am going to share with you that I learned from Zen Teacher Ezra Bayda. These are like the ax behind the glass - do they even have those anymore? The break in case of emergency, the kind of thing that you can deploy when things get particularly intense, when you feel ungrounded and helpless, when you come to a point of thin ice, that feels like it is cracking, and you need a hand up, a way out of the danger of falling.

Before you even ask yourself question one, I want you to take several deep breaths, 4x4 breathing technique - breathe in through the nose for four seconds, hold it for four seconds, exhale through the mouth for four seconds, then wait four seconds before you take your next in breath. Repeat that four times. This alone can put you back into contact with your cognitive mind.

When you are ready, start with question one.

What is going on right now?

This one requires you to be honest about dissecting your emotional response with the objective situation - the facts that you can pull out. Bayda says, “For example, when we experience the panic of losing our job or seeing our investment disappear overnight, it is easy to get caught up in our fears that we lose all sense of perspective. But what is happening in the present moment? Are you projecting and adding thoughts such as homelessness or hunger rather than experiencing homelessness or hunger? Seeing our believed thoughts - often based in negative imaging about the future - allows us to come back to an objective reality of what is happening”

If we get caught up in emotional distress, feeling like something is wrong in general, or wrong with someone else, or wrong about ourselves, we will try to think about how to escape the distress or fix it by analyzing or blaming. So basically, to see clearly, we need to ask ourselves what is going on right now, objectively, and be aware of what we are adding to the situation through our emotional reactions possibly escapism. This question, What is going on right now, will help you break a toxic loop of projection and story.

Can I see this as my path?

This question opens up a space to see our distress as an opportunity to grow or awaken further because oftentimes distressing plutonic situations are exactly what we need to experience to become freer. They can suck, yes, but they can also help us get UNSTUCK.

Bayda says, “It is fundamental that we learn when difficult situations and feelings arise, they are not obstacles to be avoided; instead these very difficulties are, in fact, the path itself. They are our opportunity to wake up out of our little protected world and awaken into a more authentic way of living.”

So that’s easier said than done, isn’t it? When we are in the middle of something awful, to just go all zen, and say, this is a part of my path to awakening. Why is that? Because we want a problem-free life, we want safety and comfort, and we can seek it as shelter, pushing away the reality of the situation, to protect ourselves, when in fact this has come to you for a purpose. Strategies like exerting control or fighting, blaming or escaping, do not make the situations or problems disappear. At some point, there is no logical reaction but to stop resisting facing the difficult experiences we all inevitably have in our lives, because the alternative is to stay stuck in the slow sinking sand.

What is my most believed thought?

This is a question that is tempting to skip over - the middle child of these five questions, lol…

If we take our opinions as truth, which can be influenced moment to moment by a myriad of things - how you feel physically, an experience with something similar from years ago, whatever, the weather even can alter an opinion - then we are living a super subjective experience. That can isolate us to a surface level of living, not able to see the vast truth beyond our little backyard - that leads to a lot of unconscious behaviors dictating your life.

Bayda shares these examples: “deeply believe thoughts about our insecurity may not be evident on the surface in a given situation; truthfully we’re often unaware of their presence. But their toxic footprint often manifests itself in our anger, blame, depression, and shame. These deeply believed, yet well-hidden thoughts of insecurity thus act like a radar, and we often seek out experiences that confirm our beliefs are true.”

This is confirmation bias - the tendency of people to favor information that confirms or strengthens their beliefs or values and is difficult to dislodge once affirmed. When that radar is constantly going, we are living in the past, not in the present moment.

Let’s go a bit further here -

If you have a surface thought of ‘nobody should have to deal with this,’ this is a thought of protective anger and frustration, but deeper down, there may be the deep-seated belief that “ I can’t do this”. Another big one is ‘I’m not worthy’ ‘I’m not smart enough’ or you know, the list is long of these kinds of traps. Whatever it is, is likely something that goes way back, a pattern you can track, and when you shine the light on your most believed thought, it becomes way less powerful. It becomes something predictable - oh there’s that again, I think I can’t do this, but I’ve done a lot of things. I make it through, and then the investment in the deep-seated beliefs starts to have diminishing returns.

What is this?

This question requires you to turn off the thinking mind, and go straight into the immediate physical experience of the moment - what is this? What sensations are you feeling in your body? Where are you feeling tension - in your face, shoulders, stomach? What is your environment like around you - what is the temperature, what sounds do you hear, what do you see? This is a practice of focusing on the ‘whatness’ rather than the ‘whyness’ of any given situation that is distressing you. It is beyond thought. What is this?

Bayda says, “Admittedly, it is difficult to maintain awareness of the present moment when distress is present because truly experiencing the present means we have to refrain from our most habitual defenses such as justifying, trying to get control, going numb, seeking diversions, and so on. Until we can refrain from these defenses and feel the physical experience directly, we will stay stuck in the storyline of ‘me’ and remain unaware of what life is in this moment.”

It’s natural to want to avoid our distressing feelings, so we busy ourselves, distract ourselves with things, and maybe try to analyze why we feel this way, but when we ask the question what is this, we can be in the moment - this is not asking what this anxiety is about, we are asking what it is.

It doesn't mean we like the experience or even accept the feeling of it. It means we are willing to pay attention to it, to explore with curiosity what the heck this feeling even is, without resistance to it. Only then can we open a door for a different experience with this distressing experience - to help us understand what is going on?

Is it hard? Yes. Both roads are hard though, and only one leads to some potential relief when you have a heart that is focused on the road to a more awakened and evolved state, a heart for peace and love, not one controlled by fear of the future, or of pain of the past.

We may have to face a lot of moments where it will be difficult to come back into a heart-centered experience. When everything seems dark and challenging, take a moment aside to breathe deeply into the center of your chest breathing in, and in the out-breath focus on compassion and warmth. Staying with the fear, with the uncomfortable feelings, asking what is this, even for a few deliberate breaths into your heart, takes a lot of courage and strength. That is what we need to lean into and cultivate. This is where the truth lies, beyond the experience of our me-ness, the separated self - that is who we are.

Can I let this experience just be?

This is a really hard question to grapple with, and that’s why it’s last. It is human nature to want to fix or remove the experience that is troubling us, but ‘just letting it go’ or trying to FIX ourselves, or even worse, someone else, just doesn’t work - oftentimes that is just plain unrealistic, impossible, or unneeded.

At some point, after enough critical understanding, we come to a point where we need to try something else - something drastic. This may be the point where allowing the experience to just be whatever it is or was, that you see pushing the pain away is more painful than feeling it. Having deep feelings flow through you and around you, being hyper-aware of what they are doing in your body, being the observer in a spacious container having a human experience.

Bayda says, “The final question - can I let this experience just be? - allows the quality of mercy or loving kindness to come forth because we are no longer judging ourselves or our experiences as defective. We’re finally willing to experience our life within the spaciousness of the heart, rather than through the self-limiting judgments of the mind.”

Five questions

What’s going on right now?

Can I welcome this as my path?

What is my most believed thought?

What is this?

Can I let this experience just be?

Working your way through them when you are feeling emotional distress can help open up a door to reality, putting your mind in a more objective observational rational state, feeling the body, feeling the emotions, and seeing the truth behind all of it - behind the self-imposed prison walls of anger, fear, confusion - that keeps us from authentic connectedness.

Truthfully, there may be things coming into our world that are going to eclipse a lot of the things that have been the progenitors of anxiety for us in the recent past - it is going to get very real, and I don’t like dwelling on that, and I certainly do not want to scare you, that is not my intention. The opposite is what I want for you. I want you to feel strong loved and accepted. I want you to be yourself. I want you to shine your love and light on other people and bring your goodness and beauty to build our collective. The truth is, that the higher on the path to awakening in our love and unconditional acceptance we go, there will be the equal but opposite power to match it. That is the nature of duality and the rules of this material plane. It is built into the game fundamentally as a foundation.

When you start looking deeply at predictable patterns marked by the planets in our solar system as the great clock, you start to see that even the most horrific events in history are part of the human condition, part of the deal you seal when you incarnate. These challenges are the markers, the points where you either take on the end-level boss, or you keep playing that level forever. There is just so much more to this human experience than meets the eye, and we have a really hard time understanding the underlying purpose or meaning of the things that cause us distress and pain.

They must fundamentally exist for there to be a choice, within the confines of our fate, we have free will to choose good, to choose love, to choose compassion, to choose judgment, and to refuse the lie of separation.

Not saying it’s easy…but what are the alternatives?

~L