Cosmic Potentials

August Horoscopes

2011-07-29T17:03:00.008+01:00

The Cosmic Backdrop

It is impossible to remain emotionally oblivious to the recent global catastrophes, from the Norwegian attacks to Amy Winehouse’s sudden demise, and closer to home personally, the train collision in China. The common thread linking these tragedies is death. When mortality is involved of that magnitude, it surely makes us ponder on the fragility of human lives. How are these worldly concerns affecting you internally?

Astrologically, we have Uranus, the planet of sudden changes, and Pluto, which governs profound transformation, at 90 degrees from one another, i.e. a square. To embellish the picture further, Mars will square the former and oppose the latter a few days before the full moon on 13^th August. This may be experienced as intense anger over events which are beyond our control. The full moon, with the Sun in Leo and the Moon in Aquarius, is waking us up to the fact that no man is an island; we are individuals within a social network. With all these planets dancing away together, fun-loving Venus will conjunct the Sun in Leo, allowing us to value our true self and see our inner beauty, regardless of external influences.

Be warned though, trickster Mercury will retrograde from 2^nd August to 26^th August. Ask for second opinion where possible, as this Leo influence may inflate confidence when caution should be exercised. Avoid signing contracts and other official documents within this period, unless it is for a renewal. If it cannot be avoided, then go through the small print with a fine toothcomb to minimise future misunderstandings. Always have a contingency plan when travelling, just in case the inevitable should occur.

Aries

The full moon this month allows you, Aries, to focus on yourselves – something you do on a regular basis, but with a spin this time. Instead of merely thinking about ‘me me me’, you wonder who you truly are so you can contribute to the wider community. In a nutshell, you want to reach out to other people by gaining an understanding of yourself first.

Taurus

The full moon this month highlights the beauty on display around you. You are proud of your heritage, your family background and simply being ‘you’. You would like to immerse this newfound sense of pride and love of life into your professional life. How can I function more effectively at work with my innate skills and talents?

Gemini

Have you been invited to a school reunion? Are you thinking of visiting your folks who are still living in the house where you had spent your childhood? A catch-up session with your long-lost pals or siblings may highlight the fact that Geminians could travel to the edge of the world to satiate their needs for variety, but at the end of the day, home is where the heart is.

Cancer

The full moon this month is a great time to re-evaluate your assets. Financially, you could review your investments and see if there are alternative ways to make your cash grow more. Physically, how can you make your inner beauty shine through your flesh? Spiritually, what do you value? What is important to you and is that shared by your partner?

Leo

This month’s full moon turns your thoughts on relationships. We are not just flesh and bones but encased within are our inner charm and deep-seated beliefs. We tend to attract individuals who can deliver a great life lesson. No matter how annoying the person or situation may seem on the surface, try to extract the underlying meaning and move on.

Virgo

You are stirring from your hibernation from last month and are ready to mingle and face the world. Feeling rejuvenated, you are now contemplating on ways to incorporate your newly discovered spiritual understanding into your everyday life. Can you practise what you preach?

Libra

Librans like to sit on the fence and be as diplomatic for as long as they can get away with. This month, you are exerting your energy at work in order to fulfill a wish which is likely to benefit a huge audience. You enjoy this project immensely and pride yourself in giving something back to the community.

Scorpio

Your muse pays you a visit and you are feeling rather inspired to go where no man has roamed. It may be uncomfortable at first, but what the heck, the world is changing around you as we speak, even if you do not budge, the Universe will find a way to kick you into motion. Show the world what you are really made of.

Sagittarius

Questioning on the meanings and purposes of life may come naturally to you but not everyone understands the lingo. How can we make it more practical and relevant to the average person? Thinking philosophically energises you. Wouldn’t it be great if this is shared by all?

Capricorn

Under this month’s full moon influence, ambitious and conscientious Capricorns may consider expanding their knowledge to aid in the climbing of their career ladders. Attending a course in a higher education institution could be the answer, but the wise counsel from a mentor can also do the trick.

Aquarius

It is unlikely that you will be bored this month. Your social life is packed to the brim but watch what you say, express your thoughts clearly to avoid misunderstandings. When in doubt, just close your mouth.

Pisces

Without a healthy body, nothing can be achieved. This month, thoughts turn to caring for your physical body and appreciating its beauty. Tone up those muscles with a new exercise regime and put yourself on a wholesome diet. After all, we are what we eat, a healthy body means a healthy mind.

July 2011 horoscopes

2011-06-26T03:46:00.004+01:00

Aries

Your mind is buzzing with ideas on ways to improve your living environment - to the dismay of your family or housemates. Watch how you spend your hard-earned cash; listen to the wise advice of those around you. This is a time where you can do with some ‘me’ time and retreat into your own sacred space - occupy yourself with activities which can be carried out in the comfort of your own home.

Taurus

The New Moon ushers in a sense of determination to make a fresh start, which can be achieved by releasing old habits and changing your old ways of thinking. Your creative energy is high and you may want to tap into your feminine side. Your social life is likely to pick up speed this month. Watch out for unnecessary spending. Having that new outfit or the latest gadget that your friend has may boost your self-esteem, but true happiness emanates from the heart.

Gemini

What do you value in life? With this month’s new moon, you are likely to invest quite a bit of time pondering over what is important to you. This is also an ideal time to research into possible ways to manage your finances – is there another bank account offering a more competitive rate? Is it time to re-mortgage your home? Use your contacts and ask lots of questions.

Cancer

Enjoying the company of friends and having a good time with them appear to feature significantly this month. You would like to allow your logical side to rest and be in touch with your feelings and emotions. This could also be a time to explore a new image to present to the world. You may have fun getting a new hair cut with your friends or go shopping with them.

Leo

This is not a time to be a hermit. Get out there and mingle with people. Through relating to others, you may re-acquaint with a wish or dream that you have forgotten about. Is there something you have always wanted to do or are passionate about but have never taken it further for whatever reason? It may be a project which benefits a large audience.

Virgo

This month is likely to be a time when you would like to be alone to think things through. You may be feeling rebellious and not want to follow the crowd. There appears to be a focus on your career so perhaps you are exerting your mental energy on a work project. Conflicts with co-workers and/or authority figures are likely. You understand the importance to be nice and courteous to others, however, during this time, unless they share the common goal(s) with you, you seem to have little patience to entertain them.

Libra

This is a time where you are likely to get on well with people in your professional life. Your work environment is relaxing and harmonious. You could even fall in love with someone at work! There are opportunities to meet like-minded people and working with them towards a common goal. A balance needs to be reached between optimism and realism. Be open-minded and not limit yourself with what you can or cannot do, but at the same time, to exercise caution and not let arrogance rule the game.

Scorpio

Travelling abroad appears to be on the cards. Whether it’s a personal or professional trip, it is likely to be a pleasurable experience. This trip will broaden your horizon and expand your social circle. Even if you are staying put where you are, it is probable that the universe will bring foreign experiences into your life e.g. meeting individuals from a different culture, attending lectures from an international speaker.

Sagittarius

Watch your temper this month as there is an increase likelihood of conflicts with others. This may occur at work with a co-worker or a significant other. They may not see eye-to-eye with your optimistic way of thinking. You are feeling rather open-minded and receptive to foreign experiences, which may be the start of something intense and unforgettable.

Capricorn

You may love your job or whatever you do for a living, but there comes a time when you feel the need to receive recognition for your effort. You are putting in a lot of time and energy into your work and all you ask for is some encouragement, preferably from an authority figure. You are feeling friendly and sociable and are likely to get on amicably with the people you meet.

Aquarius

You crave some change at work, whether it be more challenges or simply making a mark in what you do. Injecting the ‘wow’ factor in your ideas but making it realistic will be hard to achieve, but with your determination to succeed, anything is possible. In your intimate relationships, you are feeling comfortable enough to speak your mind. Your easy-going nature helps you to communicate your feelings to your object of affection and win over their heart.

Pisces

A new way of working may find itself to your workplace. Your creative muse may pay you a visit and inspire you to take your work to a different level. Though caring and selfless by nature, you are toying with the idea of allowing a bit of an ego to come through your work. You enjoy what you do and like to make things beautiful, but all of a sudden, you feel it is time to let your true self stand under the limelight. You are the star of the show and it doesn’t hurt the world to know that.

Proud to be British!

2011-04-29T09:03:00.010+01:00

Huge congratulations to Will and Kate!

What a breath of fresh air! It's so uplifting for the world to share their happiness after witnessing a series of disastrous events occuring across the globe, from the Libyan protests to the Japanese Earthquake, to name but a few.

I was tempted to analyse their charts and synastry but as Kate's birth time is still unknown, I thought it best to leave the delination until that piece of information becomes available.

Though thousands of miles away from London, I am now following the royal wedding live on TV. I cannot describe this warm feeling I'm experiencing in my heart - maybe it's the fact that a third of the population in the world (as it is allegedly claimed by the BBC!) is expected to watch this joyous event, and so I feel it is the opening of our heart chakras as we sincerely bless this couple a wonderful future together.

Case Study: Sir Richard Branson

2011-04-21T04:42:00.003+01:00

The birthchart is often referred to as a map of potential pathways for one to live out. In a given lifetime, one tend to explore a few possible routes depicted in the chart. That is why it is important to have an interactive consultation with a client, as a way of discovering which potential has been chosen. I feel in the case of Sir Richard Branson, his ceaseless appetite for adventure has motivated him to live out many of his astrological potentials. From the depths of the ocean to the far-reaches of outer space, he wants a piece of every action (Uranus in Cancer in 11th house trine Jupiter in Pisces in 8th house; Uranus ruled by and sextile the Moon, of which oppose Jupiter).

Known to be shy in private (Sun in Cancer locked up in 12th house), this man has accrued an immense amount of cash and power with his global enterprises (Pluto rising in Leo; Saturn-Jupiter opposition across 2nd-8th house axis). Though not always successful, Branson displays his keenness to live life to the full by dabbling into a myriad of investment opportunities (Venus in 11th trine Mars in 3rd but square Saturn in 2nd), from travelling (Virgin Atlantic Airways) to music (Virgin Megastores), telecommunications (Virgin Media) to beverages (Virgin Cola).

With his Mercury in Leo, he communicates with flair and has a knack for grabbing attention. His 3rd house is ruled by Virgo, which naturally co-rules communication, a conjunction pair between Neptune and Mars in Libra further adds another layer to his style of thinking - creative and bold. He has the determination to transform his ideas into reality. A highly self-motivated individal (eastern hemisphere and cardinal fire emphases), Branson has the confidence and assertion to find his own niche in the public arena (Aries MC). If he can dream it, he can make it.

Case Study: Bruce Lee

2011-04-05T14:08:00.002+01:00

A local documentary series on Bruce Lee has spurred me onto the path of unrivalling this kung-fu legend's astrological constituents.

A Sagittarian with his Sun conjunct the Ascendent, Lee had a philosophical approach to life. Lee's wife recalled her husband's passion in martial arts and how he injected his life philosophy into his work (Sun trine and rules Pluto in Leo in the 8th house). As a guest on The Pierre Berton Show, Lee compared the movement of martial arts to the mutability of water. 'Be formless, be shapeless like water. [...] Be water, my friend.' With his Neptune in Virgo in the 10th house and Pisces on the 4th house cusp, Lee had creatively and comfortably immersed the idea of fluidity into his kung-fu work.

'Don't think, feel.'

Looking at Lee's chart, it is interesting to note the conjunction between his Moon (feelings) and Mercury (thinking) in Scorpio, with the former in detriment. Thinking and feeling are merged and undistinguishable. His emotions ran deep, as did his thinking. He was likely to be incisive and precise with his mental power. With both these planets ruled by Pluto and further receiving a square from it increases the intensity. Luckily, this intensity is ameliorated by the trine to the Sun. Therefore, Lee knew it was his destiny to carry out his mission in life without the extra heaviness. His perfectionistic tendency was likely to have stemmed from his MC in Virgo and Mercury oppose Saturn in Taurus. Being perfect and asthetically pleasing were likely to be what he sought in his work.

Lee's iconic image changed the way westerners perceive Chinese people back in the 60s (Moon, Mercury, Venus & Mars in Scorpio packed in the 11th house, all received a square from their ruling planet Pluto in Leo in the 8th house). His success was earned through his sheer determination and diligence (Jupiter-Saturn Taurus conjunction in the 5th house oppose the 11th house bundle; fixed T-Square in 11th-8th-5th houses). Lee was the first Chinese to play a significant role in a Hollywood movie. In the TV series 'The Green Hornet', his chaffeur-like outfit caused a westerner to mistake him for an insignificant worker on the set. Lee shrugged off the insult in a typical Saggitarian manner, and explained he wasn't upset by the incident because he was Bruce Lee.

When Coco met Douglas

2011-03-20T07:30:00.018Z

My astrology tutor said studying charts of famous people is an effective way of honing one's astrological skills. Work commitment mixed in with a sprinkle of procrastination has delayed me in carrying out this task. However, if something is meant to happen, it will, no matter what excuse is being presented. Almost a year ago, I was invited to a Chanel event which sparked my interest in analysing the chart of Coco Chanel. Attending the event allowed me to learn a lot about the fashion icon without needing to do much of my own research. http://cosmicpotentials.blogspot.com/2010/04/coco-before-chanel.html

Last week, I had the great fortune of attending yet another Chanel event. It began with a photo exhibition of Coco Chanel, taken by Douglas Kirkland. In the summer of 1962, Kirkland, an American photographer, was assigned by Look magazine to shadow Chanel for three weeks. I was given an extensive tour of the exhibit by Amy Lai (Customer Relation Management manager, fragrance & beauty division). Amy was able to provide an impressive amount of information on each photo because she was lucky enough to have met the photographer a few days before.

Chanel was in her 70s when she met the 27-year-old Kirkland. From an astrological veiwpoint, the transit picture included a grand cross in fixed signs. The period in question is likely to have been significant to Chanel, which may or may not be unrelated to the encounter with Kirkland (further research needed here as there may have been something else going on in her life at the time in question).

Idealistic when it comes to creating beauty in her life (Moon in Pisces in 2nd ruled by Neptune in Taurus in 4th, which in turn is ruled by Venus. This natal Venus conjunct her Sun in Leo with an orb of 9 degrees. Her natal Moon oppose the methodical Mercury in Virgo, which in turn trine Neptune, repeating the theme of beauty and idealism, not to mention the Libra MC), Chanel was apparently a perfectionist. She would wear a pair of scissors round her neck so impromptu alterations could be made to her models' garments. Furthermore, to ensure he was good enough to take pictures of her, Chanel asked Kirkland to do a trial-run on her models before allowing herself to pose for his camera.

During the three-week period, one could see that Chanel's solemness gave way to a more relaxed demeanor as she gradually felt more comfortable in Kirkland's presence. Photography was not allowed at the exhibition, but I chanced upon the photo in a magazine, I call it 'Cheeky Chanel' (photo taken by me from East Week Magazine):

I was surprised to learn that Chanel was very much into the occults. Her displays of crystals and lion ornaments in her private office inside the House of Chanel, Paris reflected this interest. A leo, Chanel naturally had many ornaments of lions and the colour gold in her private office. This practice is still evident in some of the shops:

Thinking of you all

2011-03-13T13:02:00.003Z

As an astrologer, my automatic response to any world disaster is to analyse the cosmic factors behind the catastrophe. However, with the recent Japanese earthquake, I found myself unable to do so straightaway. I have spent three years of my life living in Japan and it absolutely pains me to see the news coverage of the disaster. I began to get in touch with all my friends still living there, and luckily, they are all safe and sound.

We take life for granted. Those hundreds and thousands of Tohoku inhabitants were going about their lives, oblivious to the imminent danger. In the blink of an eye, their lives were turned upside down. I can still recall when my Japanese friends were reporting the news on Facebook, I had a few 'problems' playing on my mind. However, those 'problems' disappeared completely when I discovered the magnitude of the quake and what now lies ahead of Japan as a nation.

My thoughts go out to you all in Japan.

Hoppy Chinese New Year - it's the Rabbit's turn

2011-02-05T16:01:00.003Z

Happy Chinese New Year to you all. It's the Year of the docile Rabbit, ushering in a different kind of energy from the Tiger, but just like a bunny, it's still full of vigour.

Astrologically, we are at another new moon, which symbolises a new cycle, a new start. This time, the Sun and Moon are conjunct at 13 degrees Aquarius, the sign of unconventionality and suddenness. To add to this mix, we also have Mars, the god of war, bringing aggression and vitality. In mundane astrology (astrology of world events), Mars signifies war and violence. Globally, we have the Egyptian riots. More locally, and personally, I have encountered the police on several occasions this past week. Once at the local wet market, a couple of uniform officers were taking notes of an incident of property damage, where a butcher had to cease business for the day due to having red paint splashed all over his stall. Butchers and the colour red are governed by Mars. Then, the next day on the train, some police and train officers were trying to settle a dispute between a Hong Kong Chinese lady and a family of tourists from Mainland China, where the latter had allegedly pushed the former onto the floor in order to get seats on the train. Verbal insults ensued with lots of anger hanging in the air - all ruled by Mars again.

Thanks for all the excitements Mars!

Capricorn Solar Eclipse

2011-01-02T08:15:00.006Z

2011 is finally here. Have you reviewed 2010 and made a wish list for 2011?

Four days into 2011 is a Solar (or New Moon) eclipse in Capricorn. It also happens to be my friend, Natalia's birthday - Happy Solar Return Nat!

The Sun and Moon are conjunct at 13 degrees Capricorn. New Moon is the time to start afresh, which is highly appropriate as we have just stepped through the threshold of 2011. We are reminded to leave the old behind - all that no longer work, and embrace the new. What do you need to get rid of and make a clean start on? This solar eclipse happens to fall in my 6th house of workplace, daily routine and health. Perhaps I need to consider starting a new exercise regime and watch what I eat? The house where this eclipse falls in is the area of life you may like to consider some changes. Why not take advantage of this solar eclipse energy and create a plan of action?

It is also important to note that Saturn in Libra squares this solar eclipse. If you are feeling lethargic about making a target list for 2011, perhaps people around you may somehow urge/force you to evaluate the area of life in question.

Happy New Year!

2010-12-31T14:07:00.003Z

Here we are on the eve of another year - where did the 365 days go? I'm thankful for all that I have achieved and am looking forward to another 'clean slate', where I can make a new list of targets for 2011. On that list, I should begin with 'I will put more time in astrology and update my blog more regularly'!

What are your hopes and dreams for 2011?

Mercury Retrograde in Gemini

2010-12-21T13:52:00.005Z

A month ago, Susan Miller, one of my favourite astrologers, wrote in her monthly horoscopes that the Mercury retrograde in December would cause havoc in anything related to communications. Therefore, she recommended that Christmas shopping should best be completed by the end of November. Watching the news today, I totally agree with Susan. Christmas deliveries are being delayed due to the heavy snow across the UK. Not to mention countless travellers facing the prospect of spending their Christmas at the airport.

It is interesting to note that Mercury is currently retrograding in the sign of Sagittarius - foreign travels. This planet of communication has just come out of a conjunction with the Sun, which opposed the Moon in Gemini just yesterday (i.e. Full Moon & lunar eclipse). This is a time when a culmination point is reached and we are faced with a need to clear away all the things that no longer work, and to make room for a fresh start. The full moon in Gemini, a sign ruled by Mercury, may denote a time to take an inventory of our lives (an apt time with the approach of 2011 just coming round the corner), and to let go of any emotional attachments which may be clouding our rational judgement. Perhaps an injection of objectivity and logic could help to stabilise our emotions and to help us think more clearly.

I hope the airport staff will be able to overcome their stress (Moon) and put on their thinking caps (Mercury) in order to ease the congestions in the airport lounges across Europe.

Astrological aspects on a painting

2010-10-09T15:14:00.010+01:00

Besides the plaques showing the zodiac signs, I also came across another painting with an astrological association:

Can you see it? Let take a closer look:
Let's zoom in further at the tower:
Can you see the twelve glyths of the zodiac within the circle? Also the different aspects in the next inner layer:
Conjunction is show by the new moon; square by the square shape; trine by the triangle. However, opposition looks more like the sextile symbol.

Here's some background info on the painting:

Astrology inside V & A (1)

2010-10-09T00:01:00.002+01:00

It's been a long time since my last post (again!). I've been meaning to share my find at Victoria & Albert Museum during my summer visit to London. I managed to squeeze in a trip there with a friend and was surprised to find traces of astrology in some of the exhibits.The first exhibit was a set of twelve roundels depicting the agricultural year.

On closer inspection, I noticed that besides showing the length of daytime and night-time (upper light blue and lower dark blue arcs respectively), each plaque also has a zodiac sign on top of the sun:
January - Aquarius:

February - Pisces:

March - Aries:

April - Taurus:

May - Gemini:

Astrology inside V & A (2)

2010-10-09T00:00:00.001+01:00

June - Cancer:

July - Leo:

August - Virgo:

Astrology inside V & A (3)

2010-10-08T23:59:00.000+01:00

September - Libra:

October - Scorpio:

November - Sagittarius:

December - Capricorn:

Quotes from Wild Love

2010-07-24T19:40:00.002+01:00

'Wild Love' by Gill Edwards:

'Any negative emotion is an opportunity to grow. It is to be welcomed...[........]...It is a sign from our deep Self that there is work to be done, that we are not currently aligned with our desires. We need to choose new thoughts that move us into more positive emotions - beyond fear, beyond judgement...[.....]...If we reach inner peace, we are attracting what we want much more easily. And if we are vibrating at the level of unconditional love and joy and freedom, the world is our oyster!'

'If it feels good, we can simply enjoy it. If it feels bad, we can learn and grow from it - and perhaps help others as a result. Whatever happens, all is well.'

'Whenever we try to be good, or try to please others, or see anyone else as bad or dangerous, we disconnect ourselves from Source. We disconnect from who we truly are - which is love.'

'The deepest darkness can elicit the greatest light.'

Words from Beyond

2010-07-20T09:36:00.004+01:00

I've always been fascinated with the reincarnation stories uncovered under hypnosis. In 'Many Lives, Many Masters' by Dr Brian Weiss, the patient under hypnosis was able to relay messages from the wise masters, appearing in between lives. I found a few of the messages very insightful and would like to share them here:

'Everybody's path is basically the same. We all must learn certain attitudes while we're in physical state. Some of us are quicker to accept them than others. Charity, hope, faith, love......we must all know these things and know them well. It's not just one hope and one faith and one love - so many things feed into each of these. There are so many ways to demonstrate them. And yet, we've only tapped into a little bit of each one...'

'Patience and timing....everything comes when it must come. A life cannot be rushed, cannot be worked on a schedule as so many people want it to be. We must accept what comes to us at a given time, and not ask for more. But life is endless, so we never die; we were never really born. We just pass through different phases. There is no end. Humans have many dimensions. But time is not as we see time, but rather in lessons that are learned.'

'Energy.....everything is energy. So much is wasted. The mountains......inside the mountain it is quiet; it is calm at the centre. But on the outside is where trouble lies. Humans can only see the outside, but you can go much deeper. You have to see the volcano. To do it you have to go deep inside.'

'We go through many stages when we're here. We shed a baby body, go into a child's, from child to an adult, an adult into old age. Why shouldn't we go one step beyond and shed the adult body and go on to a spiritual plane? That is what we do. We don't just stop growing; we continue to grow. When we get to the spiritual plane, we keep growing there, too. We go through different stages of development. When we arrive, we're burned out. We have to go through a renewal stage, a learning stage, and a stage of decision. We decide when we want to return, where, and for what reasons. Some choose not to come back. They choose to go on to another stage of development. And they stage in spirit form.....some for longer than others before they return. It is all growth and learning.......continuous growth. Our body is just a vehicle for us while we're here. It is our soul and our spirit that last forever.'

Summer Time

2010-07-07T17:56:00.003+01:00

I had the shock of my life when I discovered that it has been almost two months since I last updated my blog. Tsk tsk, I've allowed my lazy bugs to overtake me again. Since my last blog entry, Jupiter and Uranus have finally entered into the realm of Aries. I wonder if anyone is feeling this energy shift? I certainly do, otherwise I wouldn't have the urge to change my blog to a pink background!

Arian Energy

2010-05-21T18:08:00.003+01:00

In my last post, I pointed out that Uranus is about to enter Aries next Friday. As the cloud of confusion lifts from my mind (I blame the previous Mercury retrograde, which we are still under the influence of since we are yet to come out of the shadow period), I noticed another astrological movement - Jupiter is also due to enter Aries in a few weeks' time.

With more than one outer planet in Aries, I would expect the Arian energy to activate the 'me first' attitude, a time to think about who you really are and what you really want to achieve. You may feel courageous and want to try something new. The exact nature of how this Arian vibration may affect you would depend on where Aries is in your chart.

Personally, I feel the Arian energy as pure anger. It doesn't help that my part of the world is getting hot and humid - not a good combination for me as I get highly irritable when the temperature rises. My temper flares up and my patience is almost non-existent.

Uranus in Aries

2010-05-15T01:46:00.016+01:00

Since becoming an avid astrologer, I have been keeping a close watch on the planetary movements above and so any planets going retrograde (appearing to be moving backwards from earth's viewpoint) I would be fully aware of . However, I had a shock when I discovered Mercury went direct on 11th May - when did it go retrograde?! How did I miss it? I vaguely remembered one was coming, but this is the first time I actually missed it totally. Accompanied with this revelation was the realisation that transiting Uranus is a degree away from conjunct my natal Mercury. How did I miss that too? This then made me pick-up my paperback ephemeris and found that Uranus will soon leave Pisces and will enter Aries in two weeks' time. Uranus has been in Pisces since 11th March 2003 with an interlude in Aquarius between June to November 2003. Therefore, for the past 7 seven years, the planet of sudden change and unpredictability has been residing in Pisces, a rather soft and gentle sign and is now approaching towards the more feisty and energetic Aries. It will be under the influence of this bold and courageous sign from 28th May until 15th May 2018.

With Uranus, expect the unexpected. It is easier to go with the flow and be flexible. Uranus is about shaking out the old and welcoming the new. Depending on your house cusps and planetary placements in your chart, Uranus in Aries will carry a different message for everyone. But here is the general focus for the next 7 years:

Aries: Uranus passing through your first house of physical appearance may bring on a sudden desire to have an image change, or to start a new exercise regime. You may be forced to change the way you see the world.

Taurus: With Uranus tucked away in your 12th house of secrets, hidden talents and the Universal unconscious, you may discover a side to you that you didn't know existed. Feelings of instability may arise without knowing the reason. Old problems may resurface, requiring you to clear them away from your system.

Gemini: Uranus in your 11th house of friends, community and hopes may denote a period of reaching out and joining forces with those in society who are not afraid to challenge traditional values. New goals, new lifestyle and new friends are likely to be the main theme during this time.

Cancer: Uranus stomping into your 10th house of career and public status is likely to be accompanied with some radical changes in your profession. You could change your job or a change in your social status is likely. During this period, you feel empowered with the energy to trot down the unbeaten path and stand up to authoritative figures.

Leo: Uranus in your 9th house of higher learning and foreign travel may denote opportunities to travel. Having an open mind could help you to accept and incorporate a new way of viewing the world.

Virgo: With Uranus in your 8th house of shared resources, sudden changes in your joint finances with your partner is likely. Intense and fateful events may open up past wounds; deal with them face-to-face and release them from your psyche.

Libra: Uranus in your 7th house of partnership may signify unexpected changes in your existing relationships, from starting or ending a partnership abruptly to having more arguments and conflicts with others.

Scorpio: With Uranus spending the next 7 years in your 6th house of workplace and daily routine, you are likely to find yourself with new challenges and responsibilities in your job, or even totally change your place of work, possibly to acquire more freedom. You may adopt a new attitude to how you work.

Sagittarius: With the planet of sudden change transiting in your 5th house of self-expression and creativity, you may be inspired to be more adventurous with your romantic relationships. In general, you tend to be drawn to new experiences and may take on a new approach in your creative work. Your children, if you have any, may be going through a rebellious stage.

Capricorn: With Uranus bounding into your 4th house of home, family and ancestral roots, you may be planning on a change of scenery in the home front, e.g. moving house, renovating your existing home. Changes may also occur with your family members.

Aquarius: With Uranus in the 3rd house of communication and mental attitudes, changes are likely to occur in your way of thinking. This may also be the time where you break away from old habits.

Pisces: Your finances may go through a period of instability with Uranus in your 2nd house of material possessions, earnings and self-values. This is likely to be the time when old values are thrown out of the window, particularly on how you view material goods.

External World Versus Internal Space

2010-05-08T01:14:00.011+01:00

Since becoming acquainted with New Age spiritualism, 'The Secret' in particular, I have wondered how to accommodate two areas of my beliefs which appear to be at opposite poles.

As an astrologer interested in various teachings of divination (e.g. palmistry, face reading, Chinese astrology etc), I have wondered how positive thinking could turn one's life round when it is not 'written' in your life contract to begin with. The art of free will plays a huge part, in that, something that is 'pre-destined' can be overridden by one's free will. However, if something is meant for the highest good, then one will continue to encounter that on one's life path, i.e., we have the power (or free will) to push it away, instead of embracing it, but it will keep on coming back to you. For example, if being a fashion designer is your natural talent, opportunities will be thrown your way to explore and expand that potential. If this individual is tempted by other reasons, (e.g. money, status) and decides to stray from this path, then s/he has the free will to do so. However, true happiness awaits those who are following the path which is for their highest good.

The other day, I was watching a fortune-telling TV programme. The Chinese astrologer was asked if one undergoes plastic surgery, would the person's fortune be changed? The answer is no, not unless it is accompanied by internal changes. Facial features (and also lines on palms) are a reflection of one's internal world. For example, for a female to have a raised bump on the bridge of her nose denotes someone who tends to have turbulent relationships because of her paranoia towards her partner/spouse. If this person removes the bump, would she become more trusting of her partner? No, not unless she makes a conscious effort to self-reflect and then cultivate trust in her partner. This is the link I have been seeking. So just because we are 'born' with certain facial features/palm lines/patterns in birthcharts, we are not destined/doomed, we still have the power to exert conscious control. Through your own choice of spiritual faith (or not), erroneous thinking can be corrected, thus achieving a cleansed internal state.

Life Analogies

2010-04-30T14:41:00.004+01:00

Often, I hear people around me complaining about their wishes not coming true. They have 'sent' their wish list to the Universe and eagerly await for the results to deliver. Besides the fact that the wish may not be for the highest good, there are other factors to consider.

While listening to Doreen Virtue's radio show last week, I picked up some useful analogies which I want to share them with everyone here.

Telling the Universe what you wish for is like sending a letter. You must letter go of the letter in order for it to be delivered to its designated recipient. If you hold onto the letter (i.e. not letting go), then the letter won't get delivered.

Communicating your wishes with the Universe is also liken to ordering in a restaurant. You make your order then sit back and relax while you wait for your food. You do not give your order to the waiter, then march into the kitchen to tell the chef how you want your food cooked exactly. Just like you do not tell the Universe in specific details how you want your wish to be granted, perhaps a few general criteria could be helpful, e.g. for the highest good, to feel happy, so in the restaurant analogy, it would be like requesting to have your steak served medium/rare/well done.

Give the Universe time to set your wishes in place. Your wish may involve another person, and unless that individual is ready, the wish cannot be fulfilled. Divine timing is the key. Having patience is another important factor - I'm the worst person to preach this being such an impatient soul! But this is like gardening, where the seed has germinated in the soil but our eyes cannot detect this minute growth. I remember back in primary school, everyone in my class was given a seed by our teacher. She told us to get a pot, water it as necessary and bring it to school in a few weeks to see how everyone had done. Being impatient, I dug up the seed everyday to check its growth! Needless to say, my seed did not germinate at all because I was not able to let it do its own growing. We simply need to have the patience to wait for the shoot to push through the soil and into the light.

Coco Before Chanel

2010-04-18T10:29:00.010+01:00

I find it rather amazing that the same stimulus could elicit a myriad of responses in different individuals.

You and I may smell the aroma emanating from the wooden furniture in our bedroom or the woods by our house and thought nothing much of it. Perhaps we would feel relaxed to breathe in those scents? But who would have thought to capture and transfer that smell to a perfume bottle? That was one of the interesting facts I acquired from my recent invite to a perfume exhibition courtesy of Chanel.

Being an astrologer, I couldn't help but wonder the astrological factors possessed by Coco Chanel.

Using my Solar Fire Gold program, I discovered that Chanel was a Leo with a Pisces Moon and Sagittarius rising. This interesting fire-water mixture is likely to create an individual with an urge to express one's individuality and put oneself under the spotlight (one of her quotes being 'In order to be irreplaceable one must always be different.'). Life is like one big adventure, waiting for brave souls to explore ('Success is often achieved by those who don't know that failure is inevitable'). There is a conflict between asserting one's identity and striving for personal recognition, and wanting to be gentle, feminine and selfless. Her Sun conjunct Venus is also another factor which allowed her to stitch her name into the bible of fashion.

Liberating women from tight corsets by introducing 'comfort' into garments for ladies, Chanel made her mark with her signature 'little black dress' and 'Chanel suit', bringing out beauty without discomforts. Being the first perfume to bear the name of the designer, the olfactory creation 'Chanel No. 5' perfume endowed Chanel with timeless fame. These achievements certainly had satisfied her Leo Sun. Her Pisces Moon could also be glimpsed by the fact that her textile products allowed women to show-off their femininity without physical discomfort and restriction.

Chanel remained unmarried in her 87 years of mortal life but had numerous affairs with influential and powerful men (Sun conjunct Venus in Leo in 8th; Jupiter in 7th). When asked why she did not marry the Duke of Westminster, her replied was 'There have been several Duchesses of Westminster, but there is only one Chanel!'

Be the Change

2010-04-17T00:58:00.004+01:00

My recent trip to my local hair salon endowed me with an entertaining concept.

Six months ago, I finally had the urge to invest time and money on revamping my appearance (not the permanent kind!). I changed my wardrobe and even attended make-up classes. On consulting my chart, I discovered that my first make-up class coincided with transiting Mars conjunct my Ascendant in Leo. So I expended energy on 'me', in particular, my appearance. I also spent a lot of my time exercising to tone up my body (the first house rules our physical body and appearance). With Mars in retrograde, the effect of my egocentric focus was prolonged (and currently still in effect).

Practice makes perfect. As a student, I focused my entire energy on my academic work, therefore, I was less than a novice when it came to beautifying myself. Being an all or none person, I decided to speed up my learning process by giving myself plenty of opportunity to practice by waking up an hour early every morning to put on make-up (this 'mask' is also a first house symbol!). My current work colleagues noticed the change and some of them disapproved of me wasting my time on 'painting' my mask. Instead, I was advised to spend that time in bed. 'Who are you trying to please anyway?'

'Me,' was my reply, come to think of it, that is also a first house concept! Not to mention very Leo too. I explained that I did not like what I saw in the mirror and besides, I just felt the urge to do it. It felt right. I have learned long ago to follow my heart.

I shared this with my hairstylist. The first thing he said to me was 'Don't let your environment influence you. Be the one to influence your environment.' He then shared a psychological experiment involving the placement of an expensive car in a deprived area of New York and in a more affluent residential area. The car was completely taken-apart in the former setting but was left unscathed in the latter. The psychologists then repeated the experiment by replacing the cars with a cracked window. The same outcome occurred in the former case, i.e. dismantlement of the vehicle. However, in the latter case, having a crack in one of its windows caused a different result - the car was disassembled as well. This simple experiment illustrates that one can influence one's surroundings. You can be that change. My hairstylist commented that instead of listening to my colleague and be affected by her advice, I should continue to do what I do and begin to notice changes in them instead. Thinking back though, I think they also played a part in changing me - I remember feeling like a rag initially, so perhaps I was affected by my environment after all?

Happy Easter

2010-04-04T14:08:00.003+01:00

It is too easy to forget the true meaning of Easter, hidden behind all those chocolate eggs and fluffy white bunnies. In the Christian faith, Jesus died on the cross for all us sinners. His resurrection three days later symbolises hope and rebirth. Perhaps after indulging in all the goodies, we could spend a moment to ponder on things we could release/give up, just like Jesus had given up his mortal life for us. Life is cyclical, as one door closes, another opens, what do you need to welcome into your life?