WildSeed Astrology

Full Moon October 2014

2014-10-07T23:37:00.002-04:00

October 8^th, 2014

Full Blood Moon in 20 degrees Sidereal Pisces

6:51am EDT

may the tide

that is entering even now

the lip of our understanding

carry you out

beyond the face of fear

may you kiss

the wind then turn from it

certain that it will

love your back may you

open your eyes to water

water waving forever

and may you in your innocence

sail through this to that – Lucille Clifton

The shadow may very well be the symbol of this time, as the Autumnal period is the season of ancestors, going inward and thanksgiving for reaping the bounty of the seeds we harvested in Spring. We have several shadowy influences creating dynamic forces around us at current: an full lunar eclipse- indicating the moon’s passing through the umbral shadow of the earth, Mercury’s retrograde- where it appears to stand still, forces us to look back and examine our own shadows, and Mars in Ophiuchus- who recently returned to our psyches, our astrology and the reemergence of female power. This is the second in the tetrad of blood moons that began in April. For those who subscribe to the Abrahamic traditions, this tetrad may signify the end of times and refer to the prophecies of the four blood moons- for us who subscribe to the cyclical, never-ending nature of time, it represents the end of an age. We are now in the Age of Aquarius (again referencing that backward/forward movement, as we went from Pisces to Aquarius in terms of astronomical age), as the pit of emotions exemplary of the Piscean age has come to it finale. We move from the irrational ambiguity that comes with a surplus of feeling into the age of higher mind. This blood moon in Pisces is magnified by its involvement in a grand aspect- a Kite- making its influence all the more pronounced.

During the major shifts that we are currently experiencing and will continue to see through the end of the year, now is the optimal time to rethink our relationships to our bodies and how we care for ourselves. With the North Node in the second decanate of Virgo, we have seen disease and infection spread around the world (the blood moon in Pisces adds to the wide spread paranoia, as evidenced by the media’s handling of the Ebola “crisis”). In Virgo, we focus on diet, health, hygiene, healing, self-care and mind/body awareness. Focus on how you take care of yourself and family. Be careful of infections and hygiene, particularly things that are contagious. Raw, unfiltered, unprocessed coconut oil is a wonderful thing to have in the kitchen right now. Here is a little tip: to help prevent inhaled airborne pathogens from entering the body, rub a bit of coconut oil on the inside of your nostrils daily.

In the spirit of maintaining health, I am sharing my recipe for Fire Cider (a classic staple in the herbalist community). This can be used as a preventative by taking a teaspoon or two daily. Should you become ill, take 1-2 tablespoons ¾ times daily. This can be added to tea, soups, salads or whatever else if you would like to incorporate it into your cooking:

1 whole bulb garlic
1 large white onion
1 organic horseradish
1 whole ginger root
½ cup of astralagus root
2 tsp elecampagne (I use the powder)
¼ fresh scotch bonnet pepper
1 teaspoon raw, unfiltered pure honey
Apple Cider Vinegar with the Mother (I use Bragg) to cover

*I use organic ingredients as much as possible. Also, I order from Mountain Rose Herbs for great prices.

Peel and mince the garlic, onion and ginger. Chop the horseradish and scotch bonnet pepper. Add all of them to a 1 qt mason jar along with the astralagus root and elecampagne. Cover the ingredients in Apple Cider Vinegar and add the honey. Close tightly and shake. For those who need a visual reference, check out Herbalist Goddess Rosemary Gladstar making her recipe here.

Shake daily for 2-4 weeks, then strain. Your tincture is ready! Some people prefer not to strain but that can get funky and your mix can start to get too thick. But hey, if you like it, run with it!

Now back to this moon

Lunar eclipses are known by many names within the astrological community. Personally, I like to call them the Revealers and End-bringers. Lunar eclipses tend to bring out all the stuff we’ve been hiding- collectively and individually- while simultaneously bringing about endings. Sometimes those endings are rough, sometimes bittersweet, but always necessary.

The energy of this moon is hyper-sensitive, psychic and erratic. Under stress this could manifest as paranoia, neurosis and drama. It is conjunct Uranus- the dynamic, unpredictable revolutionary- and the South Node, both retrograde in the sign of Pisces and in opposition to the North Node in retrograde, Mercury retrograde (which again, has been in effect since the 4^th and has been taking no prisoners) and Venus all in Virgo. Venus here is weakened in the sign of its fall, which could bring relationship issues to the fore and make for some dramatic exchanges in the midst of all this stuff happening. Uranus’ involvement could mean sudden surprises and revelations, or even the ending of relationships with women or female-figures in our lives (Moon). Uranus, the Moon and South Node are all opposite the Sun- meaning, it’s time to let go of what doesn’t work for US and our ultimate goals. Black Moon Lilith makes her way into this narrative as well, as she is in Leo and also trine the Moon in Pisces, adding the fiery, ego-focused sensitivity of that sign to this combustible mix. Things may seemingly happen out of nowhere causing distrust and confusion. With all these major shifts that sense of anxiety and discomfort is almost inescapable but this ultimately is a good thing. Within the next 30 days, life will completely transform.

Drawing down this energy

There are many prophecies around this blood moon and it is not hard to see why many spiritual traditions choose to perform special ritual in honor of Her eclipse. Beaming bright with Her fiery red glow she bears the name “Ruler of the Stars”. Stationed in the watery feminine of Pisces, her glow casts rays on all that we need to see. The trine involving the Moon in Pisces, Mars in Ophiuchus and Jupiter in Cancer – brings ether/spirit and the power of water in harmonious rhythm, opening the gate to communications of a spiritual and philosophical, higher-minded nature- from the sacred feminine forces. If we can silence the noise in our heads and hearts long enough to listen very carefully and tune in, our spiritual instincts will be keen- albeit super emotional- and if we can direct these instincts through empowering and self-affirming methods, we can develop by leaps and bounds. Or, if we give into the negative shadowy side as represented by Mars in Ophiuchus, “The Warrior”, which gives her the powers of mind control, mesmerism and manipulation, we can engage in deceit, delusion and vibrations that rid us of our true power. As always, there is choice.

Black Moon Lilith, another vehicle of revelation and change agent, gives us the opportunity to grow. Here she challenges us to push our own boundaries and stop fighting for the wrong things. We cannot fight change but we can shape and direct it for our highest benefit. Adding to the feminine energetic influences around the Moon at 20 degrees of Pisces is the star Markab, located in the constellation of Pegasus. In Greek mythology Pegasus, is born of the blood of Medusa, after Perseus had cut off her head and was then tamed and ridden by Bellerophon. Being weary of earthly affairs Bellerophon attempted to fly to heaven but fell off, and Pegasus continued his course, entered heaven and took his place among the stars. [Robson, p. 56.] This star is said to give an influence similar to Mars and Mercury, and the constellation helps us gain ambition, intuition, and sometimes, bad judgment. [Robson, p. 56.]

Now is the time to harness this energy through water. Pray over a bowl of water and set it out under this moon to catch the fullness of this energy. Add some of that water to a spiritual bath consisting of:

Sea water
Blue or white flowers
Jasmine or bergamot essential oil
Fresh basil

Scrub the basil leaves in the in the water/oil mixture well to extra the essence. As you prepare your sacred bath, pray for clarity, calm and peace. Pray to be assisted and uplifted by your guides and to be released from anything that no longer serves you. Allow the Ruler of the Stars to bring your true desires to the surface by removing the superficial blockages that cloud your vision.

When it is time to take your bath, be sure to smudge your space (advice on scents below) and create a sacred environment for your cleansing. This can be added to your bath water as you sit in, soak and pray.

Additional stats:

Herbs/Plants: basil, lemon balm, irish moss
Scents/Oils: bergamot, jasmine, ylang ylang
Stones: lodolite, moonstone
Tarot: 9 of Cups
Color: greens, browns, burnt orange

For additional information on how these things will directly affect you look to your first house and where the moon falls in your chart. Also look to where Pisces may fall in your chart. If you would like your 13 sign chart drafted just contact me.

As always, I leave you with a musical offering to mellow the vibe and ride this wave. Enjoy!

Until next time Beloveds.

-Ty Shaw

*Star info lovingly sourced from "The Fixed Stars and Constellations in Astrology" by Vivian Robson
**These images are not mine and sourced from google.com. If you are the owner I would love to credit you. Just shoot me a message and I'll get that info up!

September New Harvest Moon

2014-09-22T21:46:00.001-04:00

Your teachers

Are all around you.

All that you perceive,

All that you experience,

All that is given to you

or taken from you,

All that you love or hate,

need or fear

Will teach you---

If you will learn. -Octavia Butler

September 24^th, 2:14am EST

4* Sidereal Virgo in the third house

After a summer full of super-moons culminating in the intense and emotionally charged full moon in Sidereal Pisces (the same day Mercury was squaring Pluto) the fall equinox greets us with a new moon in Sidereal Virgo. Interestingly enough, my last post on this blog was on the new moon in Tropical Virgo of September 2013, and here I am coming back full circle, just in time for the new moon of Sidereal Virgo, 2014. Can’t make this stuff up!

Heavy September

Since the onset of tumultuous energies that were activated by the Grand Cross back in April, this year has been no walk in the park. At that time the foundations were set when the Uranus- Pluto squares set off and now in September we are here again. And while I really wish I could deliver some light, happy news for the month, alas, such is not the case. These are the times we are living in folks: just look at the news or your Facebook feed. This month is no different, with its volatile energy ready to pop at any moment. There are some pockets of light though…let’s make the very best of them. Virgo season in the sidereal zodiac is upon us. As I said in last year’s post, the Earth signs are having heavy influence (Sun, Moon, Rahu all in earthy Virgo) and themes around practicality, perfectionism, and artistry abound. It’s a time when we are being pulled to hone the intellect and become more precise as we prepare to go back to school, back to work and into autumn. That summer feeling is gone and the seriousness of the earth signs ruling this period bear the weight of that energetic vibration. The Grand Cross that went into effect on September 5^th pushed into a cross roads and when everything is all said and done, it will all look vastly different.

There is an overall heaviness to the month of September. Mercury and Saturn give us a feeling of tension and urgency from the Grand Cross, and Mars transit through it will form a T-Square. While we can easily see this play out all over the world- from the Middle East to Ferguson- individually we could experience this as a feeling of being pushed to our limits, demanding to unravel us at the seams. It’s an exhausting tension because this interesting cocktail of dynamic forces pull away at us and the only way out of it is through it. We have to stay focused and not get sucked into the whirlwind before us.

This new moon is in the third house which deals with communication, our immediate environment- siblings, peers, colleagues- primary and secondary education and apprenticeship. It beckons us to discuss our feelings and become aware in order to plant new seeds for what we’d like to see come to fruition by the next full moon and beyond. This new moon in Virgo rules our health and our analytical processes. Virgo wants to apply what it has learned- the information that it has acquired through practical means in a way that serves itself and the whole.

According to Kemetic astrology this time of year is ruled by Tehuti (Greek: Thoth). This Neter of wisdom brings us into alignment with our capacity for learning and retaining information, bring balance between the one and the many. This is a time to intuit the parts in order to truly see how they fit within the whole. This is a time for organization and making use of our practical skills. Do not give into rash decisions, impatience and hasty moves. At 4 degrees of Virgo, the moon is in the first decanate, ruled by Mercury. This is the most pronounced aspect of the sign as a whole and relates it to its Mercurial cousin, Gemini. All of this Mercury gives those born in this season a critical nature, making them able to separate and compartmentalize life’s experiences and information, and they attract practical tangible benefits from doing so. This gives this decanate the keyword “achievement”. Virgo checks all the details and nuances to anything to scope out the best possible outcomes. The issue is to not become obsessed with understanding these small parts and continuously apply them to the best resolution for the whole. Because the mind is so expansive in Virgo, each new insight leads to another, and another perspective…soon Virgo is lost in its own mental machinations. Virgo must learn not to get so hung up on each and every tree that it loses sight of the entire forest. The higher expression of Virgo energy brings high ideas down to earth and makes them accessible. It brings practicality to any situation. The lower vibratory expressions in Virgo see the negative in everything and critique it accordingly.

There is a bright side to all this heavy, earthy energy and that’s found in the presence of Venus and Jupiter. Jupiter is exalted in Cancer which is a very happy place. In this position Jupiter brings unification, understanding and a focus on home, marriage, humanity etc. Venus enters Virgo on the day of the new moon. When Venus is in Virgo it’s a time where we express our love through practicality. We take care of our responsibilities, run errands, handle the minutia or simply become present for our lovers. Here love needs to make sense in a grounded, accessible way. Venus in Virgo adds an element of desire and purification, softening the tension and giving us a way to find enjoyment through it all. Focus on your artistic and creative endeavors as means of self-expression. When things get tense, go inward and create. Come together in groups for philosophical discussions and share meals together. Create together. The mutual support will lift everyone’s spirits.

The Autumnal Equinox

The fall equinox is on September 22^nd at 10:29pm EDT here in the Northern Hemisphere. Understanding how time moves, there are two equinoxes a year that bring light and dark into balance and usher in a period of time where either light will begin to take over the dark- vernal equinox leading into the summer solstice- or the dark will begin to engulf the light- autumnal equinox leading us toward the winter solstice. The ancients celebrated these markers in numerous ways as each has its importance. The fall equinox begets a time of increased darkness as the Sun continues its descent (which it began at the summer solstice) bringing us into longer nights as we move towards the cold depths of winter. These times serve as markers that point towards the types of spiritual work we can do when we move with the seasons and the cosmos. The autumn equinox is a celebration of the harvest not that summer has finished bearing its fruit. The onset of fall’s darkness points us towards the work of spiritual transformation, the worship of the dark and aging Goddesses, death and rebirth along with the realms of the ancestors. Honoring the equinox helps us to understand that light and dark are inseparable and necessary for the existence of each other.

Sun Conjunct Moon; Mars Squares Neptune

During the time of this transit we can benefit from asserting ourselves in a more confident manner and be clear on our goals in life. Take time to dig into your roots- family, ancestry and you home. Doing spiritual cleanings with herbs for the season (see below) will ground us as well as smudging with fresh tobacco to bring in that earthy energy. Emotions will run high so try not to reach rashly or make any last minute decisions. Everything should come from a clear, peaceful, grounded place.

Our physical energy may seem low and our normal work may be hard to get through. We may become more irritated by small things than normal and there is a tendency to feel apathetic with this transit (Mars square Neptune). Be wary of deceiving or being deceived when Neptune is in this position. Use your intuition and trust yourself. Be as honest and transparent as possible. Do not get involved in business ventures that do not seem practical or have unrealistic goals.

Power Flow: Solving problems with facts, grounding routines, supporting individuals, paying attention to details, reading the fine print.

Meditation: During this year, what have I learned? How can I channel all that I have learned into a practical plan that will help me move to the next step? How have my family and my siblings/peers/colleagues influenced my perspective? What are my plans for the rest of the year? What seeds would I like to plant to see come to fruition by the full moon? The third house speaks to communications and siblings but also the goddess on a base level. The moon in the third house wants to express its feelings- namely around themes of what do I truly believe at my core? How do I express that? Is what the world sees in alignment with how I truly feel? With my family and siblings or even peers how do I express my feelings? These are great things to meditate on during the dark moon.

Additional stats:

Herbs/Plants: millet, corn, wheat, barley, oats, rye, skullcap (Virgo); benzoin, grains, honeysuckle, marigold, milkweed, passion flower, tobacco, thistle (autumn equinox)

Scents/Oils: myrrh, sage, rose

Stones: jasper, agate (especially yellow), marble, topaz, aquamarine

Tarot: Eight of Coins

Color: Red, orange, russet, maroon, brown, and gold.

In the meantime, here's a little FKA Twigs loveliness to help mellow out your vibe. I'm not sure why, but these Neptune transits always make sounds like hers much more attractive and healing to me. Perhaps it's the energy of surrendering into a dreamy abyss that Neptune brings...

On a final note, please be sure to check out my good friends over at Udja Temple Ministries! They are doing fabulous healing work and offering Oracle Readings that are wonderful. They can certainly help you navigate the energies of this September and beyond. Also, check out their radio show on Sundays for more information on African Matriarchy, Black Goddess Consciousness and Spirituality. Let's support our own!

Until next time Beloveds.

- Ty Shaw

Transforming this Space

2014-09-22T21:32:00.005-04:00

Changes.

The galaxies move through space.

The stars ignite,

burn,

age,

cool,

Evolving.

God is Change.

God prevails- Octavia Butler

It’s been a while but I am back and currently resurrecting this blog. I took some time off in order to reconcile some questions and concepts I had within my own mind and spirit. I was also busy riding the huge waves of this tumultuous year- Whew! So much has changed…and now here we are. This past Uranus retrograde has affected us all in profound ways whether we realize them or not. For me, it brought me to question and revolutionize the way I thought about everything, including this blog.

Going forward I will be reporting to you using a 13-sign, sidereal zodiac. This was a monumental decision for me because astrology is an art and I needed to carve out my own unique genius; my own approach based on what makes sense to ME not the establishment or popular thought. Flow with me on this one.

My approach to spirituality in general has always been about acknowledging and respecting the traditional (no need to reinvent the wheel) while taking full advantage of our ability to evolve and transform. My astrology, in my mind, is where past and future meet. Time is a relative shape-shifter in my world, waiting for us to realize how malleable and subjective She is…which brings me to this change.

My approach weaves together traditional renaissance astrology (lunar mansions, astrological magic, fixed stars, decans and other fun stuff) with sidereal, constellational, 13-sign elements to create what I call WildSeed Astrology. All the magical, fused with the modern preoccupation with what we can see. They both have their value.

The case for the change- Sidereal vs. Tropical

Chris Warnoc (over at Renaissance Astrology, which is a fantastic site) divides the orientations in astrology into three approaches to the zodiac: tropical, sidereal and constellational. The Tropical system is derived from Ptolemy's ephemeris, which he wrote around 120 A.C.E. The problem here is that he didn’t factor in the progression of the equinoxes which would cause all his calculations to skip ahead about one degree every 75 years. Now, 1900+ years later, that’s created a difference of about 27 degrees which put the planet’s positions almost a complete sign back. To many, this is the main reason why the science of astrology is no longer respected because tropical astrology’s seasonal zodiac isn’t necessarily astronomically correct.

According to The Siderealist (another fantastic site), since the sidereal approach it is based on fixed stars and those stars are found in constellations (and are used as markers within the constellation), it would seem to me that sidereal and constellational astrology are one in the same. While a case can be made for either approach (and trust me, there are TONS of sites that elaborate on that debate…it’s a pretty old one)- seasonal or star-based (sidereal comes from the latin ‘sidus’ meaning star), in the end it’s about what beliefs you subscribe to and what works best for you. Since the tropical zodiac is measured by the position of the sun against the Earth’s horizon at whatever place in on the planet, it uses the seasons as its reference to track time. The sidereal zodiac is the position of the Sun as referenced against a stellar background. And while tropical astrology is a seasonal astrology, marking 0 degrees Aries at the Vernal Equinox, I still prefer to use astronomical calculations for my astrology because in my opinion the astronomical stellar background brings astronomy and astrology back together as one.

And then there’s Ophiuchus.

No need to reinvent the wheel so, take a look at what the great folks over at The Siderealist have written and why Ophiuchus needs to make Her way back into our minds and our astrology:

“The constellations and the houses, were truncated to a 12-sign and 12 house system. Thirteen is a number associated with women, witches and Shamans, and is part of a lunar matriarchal society that presaged the Roman empire, and was ruled by the Moon goddess. The Romans destroyed this legacy by fire and steel, and Ptolemy likewise enslaved her astrology in service of Roman aggression and bloody atrocities…

The true ecliptic includes the constellation Ophiuchus which really completes the 360 degree ecliptic. The Romans officiated a brutal, murderous backlash against women that included removing Ophiuchus from the eponymous Zodiac. Ophiuchus is the shaman, the snake-handler, possessing the secret female wisdom. Shamans were ALL females, until men started disguising themselves as women in order to secretly practice shamanic lore. The rejection of Ophiuchus from Zodiac calculations and the downfall of the lunar-based matriarchy occurred at the same time, and for the same reasons: men wanted to usurp the power of strong women…They wanted to change astrology to eliminate the 13-month, 28-day of the calendar, and replace it with a Solar, 12-month calendar... Female deities Aries, Leo and Taurus were changed to animals to further make women irrelevant. The powerful female Ophiuchus was completely eliminated from the Zodiac and the female symbol of the snake-handler was transmogrified into an old man, a dystopian opinion based on Roman efforts to destroy female power in the tribal areas.”

So there we have it folks. The Mama is back, with her medicine, visions, potions and cult. We welcome Her and her ancient teachings. I’ll still offer all the classic WildSeed goodies: deities, spirits, herbs, tarot correspondence, etc.- just with a different flava. Trust- I think it’ll be a good fit. And feel free to message me with your thoughts and comments! I’m always open to learning and exchanging.

Your new sign

Tropical astrologers have given you your sign based on their seasonal zodiac that doesn’t actually match what’s happening in the sky. Take a look up at the sky and see for yourself. The planets and luminaries aren’t where they say they are. Now that we are using 13-sign, sidereal zodiac you will notice that your sign may have changed depending on your birthday. Don’t panic. Here’s a list of dates that will help you find your correct sign. For your free13-sign chart drawing feel free to message me or order a reading.

13 Sign Dates

Aries: 4/19- 5/13

Taurus: 5/14- 6/19

Gemini: 6/20-7/20

Cancer: 7/21-8/9

Leo: 8/10-9/15

Virgo: 9/15- 10/30

Libra: 10/31- 11/22

Scorpio: 11/23- 11/29

Ophiuchus: 11/30- 12/17

Sagittarius: 12/18- 1/18

Capricorn: 1/19- 2/15

Aquarius: 2/16- 3/11

Pisces: 3/12- 4//18

My next moon report is coming soon…stay tuned!

New Moon September 2013

2013-09-05T22:52:00.001-04:00

Voodooman, chicken bone chicken bone
I can make a thunderstorm from a light rain
My ears start ringing, My nose get bloody
I feel a lil' bit of pressure on my right brain
Intermission transmission
Put me in submission
Glistening trapped in the light prison whistling
The Christ told me come closer to the light man
I went blind woke up in front of a mic stand -Voodoo Man
Jay Electronica, Tropical Virgo, born September 19, 1976

New Moon in 13* Virgo
September 5^th, 2013
7:36am EST

Virgo season in the tropical zodiac is upon us. Earth signs are ruling and themes around practicality, perfectionism, and artistry abound. It’s a time when we are being pulled to hone the intellect and become more precise as we prepare to go back to school, back to work and into autumn soon. That summer feeling is waning and the seriousness of the earth signs ruling this period bear the weight of that energetic vibration.

We have the Sun, Moon and Mercury all in the sign of Virgo, the Virgin Perfectionist. All of those planetary bodies are in critical degrees of this sign. All of that activity is happening in the twelfth house (the moon, Mercury, Part of fortune, Sun and Ceres are all in the twelfth house, all in Virgo- whew!) bringing up lots of challenges but also the possibility of transformation.

The term zodiac translates to “circle of animals”, but there are several prominent archetypes that represent other forms of creation. Virgo, the virgin maid, is one of those. The mythology of Virgo is rich. She represents the Celestial Lady, Goddess of Harvest. Wearing her own bejeweled crown- the Diamond of Virgo (a four-star constellation comprised of the star Denebola [tail of Leo], Spica, [also known as the The Pearl], Arcturus [a bright golden star] and Cor Caroli [a double-bodied white and lilac star]), this refined aspect of the Goddess knows her worth and applies them practically in order to create a life in which her fully potential can be explored and taken advantage of (Oken, page 100). At thirteen degrees of Virgo this moon is influenced by the star Cor Caroli. This star is said to “gives a love of hunting and a penetrating mind, making those born under it faithful, keen, clever and fond of speculation” (Robson, page 34).

The new moon falls into the 11^th Nakshatra: Hasta- the hand or fist. Ruled by the deity Savitri or Surya (the Sun), Hasta represents manual skill- meaning, aptitude and ability within crafts or the arts. Those born under this Nakshatra use their hands for healing- whether they are doctors, sculptors, massage therapists or whatever else. They are sociable, likeable and usually possess great wit.

Mercurial dichotomies: what do you truly desire?

Mercury’s energy is running a lot this cycle. As the ruler of Virgo, and the sign in which the Sun, Moon, Part of fortune, and Ceres all find themselves this lunation, it’s agency is compounded. Mercury rules how you process information and how you communicate. In its shadow, it can lead to judging, being overly critical and subscribing to a consciousness that compresses every and anything into rigid boxes and dualities. Instead of thinking and judging in terms of right vs. wrong, good vs. bad, et al., the challenge will be finding that balanced middle ground, seeing things for what they are – Virgo also blesses us with the gift of discernment- and seeing how we can work things such that they serve our highest purpose(s) and/or goal(s). Rigidity in our thinking can lead us to limit ourselves, our power and miss opportunities right in front of our faces. In a very Eshu-like fashion, sometimes what we consider bad may be good for us and vice versa. In order to get to a place of clarity we have to ask ourselves several poignant questions:

1- What do I truly want?

2- What understandings have I gained during the course of this year?

3- How can I use my talents in practical ways to provide stability for myself?

4- What does balance look and feel like to me?

5- What do I really believe?

This new moon beckons you to find the practicality in your life. After the dog days of summer have passed, take stock see what you’ve harvested, plan your next move, clarify your priorities and desires, and bring order to all that you seek to accomplish in order to be as organized and productive as possible under the auspices of this new moon.

Finances, Emotions and Processing

With Venus squaring Jupiter in the second house, now is not the time to delve into emotional spending. Temper your habits, stick to the budget and do not using spending as a way to assuage negative feelings. Venus and Chiron are both in the sign of super sensitive, psychic Pisces, stirring up our need for connection, longing and fears of loneliness- especially where our passions and hearts are concerned. We are healing from deep within and we will either push past pain- and find better ways of processing/dealing with it- or embrace whatever form of escapism available. The choice is ours.

Oftentimes when we discuss the concept of health we focus solely on the physical. Mental and emotional health are especially important now, as we also have the dark moon is in opposition to Chiron in Pisces, which intensifies our feelings and ability to experience pain. Do you have a creative outlet? How do you express yourself? Take a cue from Jay Elect, who works out his struggles lyrically in this track:

Have you ever ever ever been depressed so bad
It was a struggle every day not to regret your past
Feeling cursed like you never ever get your swag
And you was speeding down the highway when your threshold pass
When you cried all your tears out
And one page of your diary can tell you what your year 'bout
That's a lonely place- Dear Moleskine, Jay Electronica

Power Flow

The power flow of the Virgo New Moon lies in organization. Clean up emotional, spiritual, physical and mental clutter. Focus on your complete health- energetic, spiritual, mental and emotional. This is the best time all year to really take action around improving your health. Virgo specifically rules the bowels, intestines, constipation, diarrhea, digestion and the solar plexus chakra.

Meditations

The symbolism of Virgo is often misunderstood. Her virginal archetype has little to do with chastity in any repressive, patriarchal sense- it is about her autonomy and self-actualization. She is embodied and draws her power from her ability to ground herself and channel her celestial knowledge.

With everything that is going on in the world right now- from another potential US invasion of Syria to continue the endless world-wide war mongering this country exalts to water scarcity in some parts Africa to the endless barrage of attacks on our collective psyche on a daily basis, it is easy to want to tune out, space out and numb ourselves. The new moon in Virgo opposing Chiron in Pisces, the grand water trine still fizzling out in the background, and our north node in Scorpio also trining Chiron makes it easy for us to escape to our fantasy worlds, retreat and shut down.

During this time work on being fully present in each moment and really becoming aware of your body. Ground yourself into a firm, exact vision of where you want to go next and align your spiritual forces with that vision. Use the gift of embodiment to heighten your awareness of self and surroundings. Relax any fallacious notions of perfection you may be holding on to and embrace precisely what you are- perfection in your own right, imperfections and all.

Additional stats:

· Herbs: pine, mar pacifico, tartago, valerian

· Flowers: Lily

· Scents/Oils: pine, cedar, sweetgrass

· Crystals: citrine, apache tears

· Trees: pine, cedar

· Animals: snake, jackal

· Tarot: 6 of pentacles (coins)

· Color: brown, red-orange, earth colors

I leave you with a soundtrack to ride out this Virgo season with. Check out DJ Lynnee Denise’s Emotional Migration mix…definitely an end of summer vibe.

If you would like to receive more personalized information please contact me here for a natal chart interpretation. As always, your comments and thoughts are always welcomed.

-Ty Shaw

Full Harvest Blue Moon in Aquarius

2013-08-21T15:45:00.000-04:00

Here we are-

Energy,

Mass,

Life,

Shaping life,

Mind,

Shaping Mind,

God,

Shaping God.

Consider-

We are born

Not with purpose,

But with potential. – Octavia Butler, Parable of the Talents

The Full Moon took place yesterday at 9:45pm EDT (my apologies for getting this report out late...it's been crazy!). This Harvest Moon in Aquarius conjures our higher, wider thinking abilities. Ruled by Uranus, Aquarius invokes our deep desire and need for freedom. It demands that we come together for the benefit of all and embrace a more expansive vision that can extend beyond our individual pettiness, self-interest and need for evolution. The energy of this full moon also brings an extra flare of creativity and magic. This is an optimal time for us to tap into our hearts and create new opportunities for ourselves. We are emerging and our true shapes are taking form. Seeds that have been planted deep within us are coming to harvest and we now have to decide what we will do with our desires. Trust your inner compass. We cannot allow these changes too simply happen to us; we must actively participate in the shaping of our lives.

Modern society defines the blue moon as two full moons in a [Roman] calendar month. In antiquity, however, since most calendars were based on celestial events and for a number of cultures, a 13-month, moon based calendar, it doesn’t apply. A Blue Moon is more about there being two full moons in the same sign- and in that regard this moon fits the bill to a tee. This changes how we are affected by the energy of that moon and how we process that energy and is an event that on average only happens once every 3 years (about 33 months).

Aquarius, the Water Bearer, is located in the portion of the sky that Euphratean astronomers call “The Sea” (Oken, page 149). This name comes from the multitude of water constellations in this portion of the cosmos. Governing the circulatory system, Aquarius, an air sign, governs the waters of consciousness and mind. What we can see and feel intuitively is embodied in the higher consciousness of Aquarius’ air. From a Vedic perspective, this full moon in 20 degrees of Aquarius falls in Nakshatra 24, Shatabhisha, known as The Divine Healer or A Hundred Healers.

Associated with the deity Varuna, God of the cosmic waters, sky and earth, this Nakshatra is the large group of faint stars in the constellation of the Water Bearer. The water that flows from this vessel is the nectar of immortality. In mythology, Varuna is the deity that pours out the waters of life that heal all illness and bestow immortality. This Nakshatra is also called “The Veiling Star”, and is associated with healing the human condition both spiritually and physically. Those born under this Nakshatra are apt to become doctors or healers. They are profoundly mystical, philosophical and visionary, but can also be very secretive and reclusive.

Still moving through Leo season as we prepare for Virgo season, the Sun is conjunct the star Regulus, the Heart of the Lion in the constellation of Leo. This is the star of fame, popularity, royalty and leadership. Regulus is one the four royal stars of Persia, considered to be intimately connected with humanity’s creation. Aquarius moon in decan 2 is also ruled by the star Castra. Located in the constellation of Capricorn, this star ties us back to our sidereally-oriented galactic center. Astrologically, this star is often of a beneficial influence, although some modern astrologers mistake this star as a malevolent one located in the belly of the goat (Castra is actually on the fishtail of the water-goat). It is of the nature of Saturn and Jupiter, and can bless as much as destroy (Noonan, page 36).

Power flow of the Aquarius Harvest Moon:

The power flow of this Full Moon is found in directing our energies toward harvesting, gathering and appreciating. We can use this energy to restore vitality to ourselves and our lives, focus on our health and reinvigorate our friendships. We can also develop new and exciting ideas that work in groups.

Meditation for this new moon

“There is always a place where, if you listen closely in the night, you will hear a mother telling a story and at the end of the tale, she will ask you this question: 'Ou libéré?' Are you free, my daughter?"

My grandmother quickly pressed her fingers over my lips.

Now," she said, "you will know how to answer.” ― Edwidge Danticat, Breath, Eyes, Memory

Where Leo teaches us who we are as individuals and what our individual creative spark is, Aquarius teaches how that spark adds to the larger collective and changes the game. It reminds us that it is our unique creative genius that supports the collective. It dares us to break free, and really decide what liberation looks like to each of us. The Aquarius Blue Moon challenges you to ask yourself- Will you be the sheep or the shepherd? What do you offer your community? Do you have the ability to creative and stick to a vision and inspire others? Can you be a source of inspiration and an agent for change? Are you free? Are you sure?

As you work through your full moon meditation, here’s a theme song for you:

Additional Stats:

- Herbs: Basil, Cotton, Marjoram, Sage, Chamomile, St. John’s Wort,

- Colors: White Blue

- Flowers: White roses

- Scents: Myrrh

- Stones: Cat’s eye, Jasper, Blue Sapphire, Onyx

- Trees: Hazel, Cypress

- Animals: Mermaid, Cat

- Birds: Crane, Falcon, Eagle

- Tarot: 7 of Swords

Western Lunar Mansion (retrieved from the Lunar Mansion Ephemeris here):

26: Al-Farg al-muqaddam: To safeguard travelers.

Additional cosmic influences

“won't you celebrate with me
what i have shaped into
a kind of life? i had no model.
born in babylon
both nonwhite and woman
what did i see to be except myself?
i made it up
here on this bridge between
starshine and clay,
my one hand holding tight
my other hand; come celebrate
with me that everyday
something has tried to kill me
and has failed.” ― Lucille Clifton

In the back drop of this Aquarian Moon we have a cardinal cross and a kite formation in play. The squares involved in the grand cross are sources of tension and dynamism where Pluto, Jupiter, Mercury and Venus are involved. We’re still working through the watery deluge of the Grand Water Trine, and the grand cross adds the action necessary to ignite the dormant potentialities hidden with the kite. Look out for my upcoming report on these aspects for more information.

To find out what areas in your chart will be most affected, look to your fifth house and wherever your moon is falling. If you don’t have a copy of your chart you can obtain a free one here.

If you would like to receive more personalized information please contact me here for a natal chart interpretation. As always, your comments and thoughts are always welcomed.

New Moon in Leo- 6 August, 2013

2013-08-04T14:37:00.003-04:00

6 August 2013 Tuesday

5:51pm EST, 21:51:57 UDT

New moon in 14 degrees Leo

James Baldwin, Artist Unknown

“Love takes off the masks that we fear we cannot live without and know we cannot live within. I use the word "love" here not merely in the personal sense but as a state of being, or a state of grace - not in the infantile American sense of being made happy but in the tough and universal sense of quest and daring and growth.” ― James Baldwin, The Fire Next Time (Tropical Leo, Born August 2, 1924)

The new moon is here again, bestowing the opportunity for new beginnings, fresh starts and the commencement of new projects. When the moon is new it is not visible in the night sky and is useful for creating a vision or setting an intention. The energy of the dark moon (new moon, no moon) is in effect from Day 1 to 3 ½. This Leo Moon gives us the chance to utilize its beneficial energies with ease because it rules the heart. Under the favorable conditions of the Leo New Moon we set the stage to return back to love, starting with ourselves.

Lion of Judah, Artist Unknown

Leo, the cosmic cat, has a rich mythology and history. It is represented in the Lion of Judah, King of Kings, which still appears among the titles of the emperors of Ethiopia. It is believed that this- the oldest existing monarchy- consisted of kings descended from the union of King Solomon and the Queen of Sheba. She, as Daughter of the Sun, was the empress of Ethiopia at the time of their meeting (Oken, page 94).

Leo is a fixed fire sign and seeks to stabilize that which has come before it- which makes the past, lineage, ancestry and heritage paramount. From a Vedic perspective, this moon is located in Nakshatra (lunar mansion) 10 known as Magha, The Forefathers. Maha means great, and those born in this lunar mansion are generally regal, proud and conservative. This Nakshatra is considered “the gateway to the ancestors” and there is a sense of wanting to follow the traditions of the ancestors in some manner.

New Moon in Leo directs our attention back to our innermost self. Moon conjunct Sun- both in Leo- lifts the veil in order to for to accurately assess how we are perceived in the world. It facilitates the balance of our inner and outer interactions. Leo needs to express itself creatively and we need only look to wherever Leo is found in our natal charts in order to understand where we need to focus the higher octaves of the energy of our Sun Signs in order to capitalize on this New Moon. This is the time to bring out our talents and put our best foot forward.

The New Moon in 14 degrees Leo is ruled by the star Dubhe, in the constellation of Ursa Major. Dubhe is a yellow star on the back of the Greater Bear, more commonly known as The Big Dipper. This modifies the energy of the Leo new moon in that it further compels us to go inward and embrace self-control in order to not have our egos run amuck.

On the ego of Leo New Moon:

In its lower octaves Leo exhibits traits that don’t service its more precocious spiritual nature. Its other side- the cowardly lion who can hide behind its ego and need for validation- can also rear its head. The North node in Scorpio advises us to come together and embrace partnership as the support will help us to navigate lapses in energy and focus during this time. We have the opportunity to support one another and take advantage of fruitful partnerships but the Sun and Moon conjunct in Leo bring about a surplus of self-involvement and self-centeredness that have the ability to destroy our agreements and alliances. Willow from Willow’s Web Astrology explains this well:

“Big personalities, big egos, and big creative power are coming together, with a particular gel point this fall under the Saturn-North Node-Venus conjunction at 8 degrees Scorpio.

This requires a careful understanding and distribution of power. It also requires the careful, proactive honing of our personalities and egos. We have to drop a whole lot in order to achieve the things we need to achieve, in order to fit through the slim doorway to Aquarius. Coming out of this Leo New Moon, square the Scorpio North Node, we're determining the essentials of our personalities from the non-essentials, the benefits of a strong ego versus the pitfalls of an oversized one.

We're purging any potentially detrimental ego bloat coming out of this Leo New Moon with an eye toward long-term gains. The more honest we can be with ourselves, the better, though this will not necessarily be easy. We can expect some ego burns and bruising around this New Moon as we are stripped down, charged up, and positioned for the long term.”

During the Leo New Moon, make every effort to rise above pettiness and the trappings of an un-evolved ego. Embrace the help available to you and navigate your relations accordingly.

Completion and Follow-through

This new moon also brings the opportunity to expound upon the energies and intentions set in July. This gives you the opportunity to really apply yourself to your goals and creations in order to see them through. Review the details, pay attention to the nuances and put the final perfecting touches on those outstanding projects. Allow spirit to support you in manifesting your goals by simply submitting to calm, being receptive and accepting the process. Pay attention to the signs around you and the messages that come in whatever form. Integrate that advice into real day to day praxis in order to see tangible change. Remain steadfast in the face of delays, blockages or resistance. Channel your confidence and manage your time and efforts well.

Power Flow of the Leo New Moon

The power flow of this Leo New Moon is found in creativity, courage and individuality. Honing these gifts and offering them to the group bring us to a place where we can embrace completion and the enjoyment as a result. Create what you love, be yourself and follow-through! Temper your arrogance.

Meditation for Leo New Moon

Self-assured and progressive, New Moon in Leo calls you to be yourself and assert your right to self-define. The masculine in Leo seeks to impregnate the world with its unique creative genius; its fingerprint, its ego. Cultivate and refine your desires and find out what they offer to the collective. Define yourself- for yourself- and do not allow anyone else to dictate who or what you are. What is your unique offering to your world? Are you growing and standing proud- like the King of Kings - or are you cowering, running away from yourself- like the scared cat? How do you show your love? Are you being yourself or exemplifying the characteristics of some personality construct imposed upon you- whether by society or by your own self-promulgated limitations? What do you know? Who are you? Are you what “they” say you are? Will you give “them” their problem back? Tropical Leo James Baldwin explains it best and he brilliantly self-defines and questions the intentions of those who seek to tell us who we are and give us names we’ve not chosen:

Passion and Enjoyment

“It’s a sweet life and somebody has to live it”- Jalylah, Crunk Feminist Collective

Opening the last month of summer, Leo blesses us with that loving, flirtatious feeling in the air (and we still have that grand water trine in effect, pushing that flowy, psychic feeling into the ethos, making these connections seem karmic and otherworldly, eerily familiar, and über-sexy). Leo New Moon along with the Sun in Leo preps us for the upcoming Full Moon in Aquarius- the second in a row. As you ride out this last leg of Leo before we enter Virgo season, be loving to yourself and those around you. Enjoy the company of others and love on somebody. And while you do it, here’s a soundtrack for you to bump to on the way.

For those of us who use the moon for our work, here are some additional stats:

· Herbs: Dandelion, Rue, Fennel, Rompe Zaraguey, Paraiso

· Flowers: Sunflower, Marigold

· Scents/Oils: Heliotrope, Geranium

· Crystals: Yellow Sapphire, Citrine, Amber, Aventurine

· Trees: Cedar

· Animals: Lion, Phoenix, Bear

· Tarot: 5 of Wands

· Color: Yellow, Gold, Orange, Purple

Lunar Mansion (retrieved from the Lunar Mansion Ephemeris here):

On August 6^th- Mansion 6: Al Hana. To bring friendship

To find out what areas in your chart will be most affected, look to your fifth house and wherever your moon is falling. Also look at what Leo is doing in your chart. If you don’t have a copy of your chart you can obtain a free one here.

If you would like to receive more personalized information please contact me here for a natal chart interpretation. As always, your comments and thoughts are always welcomed.

-Ty Shaw

Full Thunder Moon- July 2013

2013-07-21T15:04:00.002-04:00

Chaos

Is God’s most dangerous face-

Amorphous, roiling, hungry.

Shape Chaos-

Shape God.

Act.

Alter the speed

Or the direction of Change.

Vary the scope of Change.

Recombine the seeds of Change.

Transmute the impact of Change.

Seize Change.

Use it.

Adapt and Grow. – Octavia Butler, Parable of the Talents

Full Thunder Moon in Aquarius, Sun in Leo

According to the Farmer’s Almanac, the month of July is when thunderstorms are most frequent; as a result its full moon is called the “Thunder Moon” (the Blessing Moon and Hay Moon are some of its other aliases). This is the third consecutive Super Moon of the season and it comes to us in 0 degrees of Aquarius on 22^nd July. This is the first of two consecutive Aquarius Full Moons, making August’s moon the rare “Blue Moon”.

Uranus, which transforms one’s sense of freedom, individual purpose and personal uniqueness (Arroyo, p. 25) is the planetary ruler of Aquarius (traditionally Saturn) and is very involved in the changes ushered in by The Full Thunder Moon. At the full moon it is in 0 degrees of Aquarius (decan 1), ruled by the star Altair, whose energy adds another layer of tension to the vibe of the Aquarius Moon. Altair is associated with difficulties and challenges of all sorts, and with the Uranus-Pluto square still in place (and the difficult aspect Mars in Cancer will be making to it in a few days) things are bound to heat up.

The Sun is in 0 degrees of the fixed sign Leo (decan 1) which is ruled by the star Talitha. Talitha is part of the constellation Ursa Major which has an effect similar to that of Mars, compounding that frenetic feeling in the air. Ursa Major is said to give an uneasy spirit and great anger and revengefulness when roused [Robson*, p. 65]. Our fuses may be short and our emotions ready to blow.

As the sun moves into exaltation in the sign of Leo which it rules it will conjunct our Aquarius Thunder Moon, compounding each other’s influence. Leo holds our divine individuality; our unique imprint that illumines our core self and longs for expression. It wants to be praised and acknowledged. Being loyal to our individuality as opposed to shrinking ourselves in order to be accepted becomes necessary and the inner dimensions of rebellion are brought to the forefront. Interacting with Aquarius- the fiercely independent game-changer- it moves us into a place where we are motivated by larger concepts around the collective and the future as well. The concerns of the community become paramount and take precedence over the needs of the individual, while recognizing that the cultivation of the gifts we as individuals have to offer will lay the right foundation.

With this moon comes a feeling of restlessness- we are ready to move, our emotions are ready to boil over but we still have to exercise temperance and planning (Saturn in Scorpio is still in play). Our buried demons and toxic emotions are coming to the surface and we must deal with them in order to move forward. It may be any number of lower-self emotions- from jealousy to rage- all things we’d much rather not have to feel. We can choose to avoid them, but that Uranus-Pluto square will simply bring them back again. Are we ready and willing to do the work? The build-up of fiery emotions is real and requires our attention. We can see examples of this in the reactions to the injustice of the Trayvon Martin case, where the ills of the [in]justice system were brought to light and resulted in the outpouring of public anger. We can also see how fiercely the machine and its agents (those who remain asleep and unaware) will work to invalidate and nullify the anger of oppressed people by stripping them of their right to express anger over injustices committed against them. We see the effects of the revolutionary Uranus-Pluto square continuously playing out around the globe; look to Egypt, Venezuela or any number of other places to see the proof in the pudding. How will we handle our potent emotions and they find their way out? Will we implode? Or will we use the visionary potential of Aquarius to design a new way of life- one that is in alignment with our ultimate spiritual truth and gifts? Will we/can we focus our anger, our emotions, transform them, and create something that works towards our collective evolution through our personal evolution?

Power flow of the Aquarius Thunder Moon’s energy

“Knowing how you actually want to feel is the most potent form of clarity that you can have. Generating those feelings is the most powerfully creative thing you can do with your life. And not only do we have to put our feelings at the heart of our ambitions, we have to pursue our desires in a way that is life-affirming, rather than soul-depleting.”- Danielle LaPorte, The Desire Map

The power flow of this moon is found in intention, emotional intelligence, dream-work, divination and meditation on goals and plans, particularly those of a spiritual nature. Inspiration and focus on our feelings and how they affect our thinking come to impart wisdom and profound insights regarding our future and our way. Keeping the sacred as our center, now is the time to live intentionally, decide what we want to create and actively participate in its design. Are you clear on your core desires? Have you confused your wants with your needs? Emotions are the roadmap to personal power and awareness gives us the ability to choose which emotions we want to experience in order to create and achieve our goals. While society and most things new-agey have us believing that we have to seek the goal in order to generate the desired emotional state, it's actually quite the opposite and the grand water trine supports this notion by challenging us to use our spiritual sight, emotional map and transformational abilities to manifest our desires. Use the energy of this moon to marry your true emotional desires. Rededicate yourself to yourself and live with consciousness and intention in order to reclaim your genius. With the Sun in 0 degrees Leo conjuncting our Aquarius moon, using ingenuity can help us access our ancestral memories and traditions in order to create processes and structures that will outlive us. It is time to think of posterity, what our needs are (by having the perspective needed to assess our current state) and what we need to create. We can create it on our own or we can support/participate in its creation but it needs to benefit the collective and the bigger picture.

Our collective Karma during this moon cycle is guided by the North Node is Scorpio in the first house and South node in Taurus in the 7^th. Here the Moon’s node tells us that we must continue to develop our sense of initiative and our personal power. We have to carve out our own destiny. Through our efforts and actions we will gain the confidence and self-reliance we need. Scorpio north node needs to transform and be reborn, while the Taurus south node shows us that our focus has to shift. The world has to shift from the materialism that is destroying it and relinquish its need for dominance.

In addition to all the watery energy brought on by the Grand Water Trine, we have Chiron in Pisces, adding more to this brew of energies and keeping the spotlight on our emotions. Chiron is in 13 degrees of Mutable Pisces, ruled by Achernar. This star has the effect of Saturn and Mercury, and is said to gives a love of knowledge and science, travel and change [Robson*, p.46.]. Chiron in Pisces in the fourth house, trine the north node- says we need to heal the past in order to create a new future. Chiron seeks to align the whole person- mind, body and spirit- and working through Pisces it tackles those issues through the emotions.

Grand Water Trine

“The series of Grand Water Trines that began in early June have helped all of us find

appropriate emotional vehicles to navigate this time of tremendous feelings. Once we find the right “emotional intelligence,” then the more we care, the more we become sensitive to, the easier the flow through the crosscurrents indicated by Uranus square Pluto. We cannot avoid the crosscurrents, but we do not have to feel helpless in navigating them. Again, we are learning to trust the process.”- Robert Wilkinson, Aquarius Papers- Global Astrology

The much talked-about Grand Water Trine is still working in the background with Mars in Cancer adding more movement and action to the mix. We have to be conscious notice when things come together in synchronicity despite whatever setbacks we may experience. With the hard square Mars is about to form against Uranus and Pluto, this water trine provides the necessary comfort in navigating the last days of July.

Mercury goes direct; Mars gets active; Venus in her fall

Mercury finally went direct on the 20^th, lightening this last tough stretch as he played with our speech, communications, ideas and electronics. Now he moves on to enter 13 degrees of Cancer (decan 2), ruled by Canopus. Under the influence of this star Mercury become has to work not to become too stubborn or headstrong, as this star is said to make one rash [Robson*, p.150.]. At this critical degree, Mercury’s intensity is heightened and our minds start to run a mile a minute. Use this energy to bring completion to outstanding projects and to get really focused on the details that require our full attention. These things will also give us some much needed distractions from all the other energies at play right now.

Venus is in 0 degrees of Mutable Virgo, its fall. A planet in the sign of its fall is in an uncomfortable position and is weakened and influence lessened. Venus is unhappy in the sign of Virgo and this sentiment is doubled because she is conjunct the fixed star Regulus, which is said to bring “many disappointments, unexpected happenings, violent attachments, trouble through love affairs” [Robson*, p.196.]. Being in a critical degree compounds this affect, so now is not the time to plan a wedding or embark on a new relationship.

Mars is in 6 degrees of Cancer (ruled by Furud, a star in the constellation of Canis Major). The Mars-Jupiter conjunction will also be exact when the moon is full. These planets are in rough aspect to Uranus and Pluto, so the energy can be volatile. Mars in 6 degrees of Cancer (it’s fall) squares Pluto and Uranus for several days and that energy is problematic and brings the potential for tension and conflict- particularly with regard to authority and power structures. Mars will continue on- it’ll be in this position from the 27^th to the 31^st- but that small patch has the potential to set off fireworks.

Uranus goes retrograde in Aries

Uranus goes retrograde in Aries for 5 months just as the water trine reached its height a few days ago. My astrology mentor calls Uranus “The awakener”. She likens its energy to an earthquake, with all of its revolutionary electricity and high-minded proclivities. In thinking about Uranus going retrograde and entering Aries, it seemed that the Great Awakener is here shaking us loose from the illusion that we are separate from one another and from this planet. It is waking us up to see how asleep we’ve truly been.

Uranus (as well as Neptune and Pluto) are normally spoken of with the group and certainly they are about generations and groups- Uranus stays in a sign for seven years so we’re each part of a Uranus generation- but we still experience these planetary energies very personally in our charts and lives. Uranus effects change through the individuals that comprise the group. It’s time for a new perspective and time to see the bigger picture. Uranus supports revolution all around the world. Uranus is the planet of genius and trailblazing. With Uranus we shake free of societal impositions on behavior. We have to reclaim our individual fire- our self- in the midst of global machines designed to keep them dormant and hidden. Suppressed and conditioning the leads us to perpetuate our oppression but the Uranus-Pluto square dares us to get free.

Aquarius Thunder Moon Meditation

Imagine your future and fill it with intention. Imagine that your particular gifts are pivotal in the creation of that future. Consider the notion that your ancestral memory is pulling you towards grounding yourself in a new reality; a reality that truly reflects your innermost desires- the individual- and the manners in which they affect the whole- the group, represented by Uranus. Will we continue to be herded like sheep, or are we brave enough to be liberated? What beliefs [dogmas] will we have to give up for the sake of autonomy? Accept the notions that not only are the spiritual and material worlds blending but the lines between the two are quickly dissolving altogether. How will you cultivate your gifts in a way that is supportive of a better future? Will you gather with your kin- those who share similar gifts and paths- in order to support one another?

The paradigm shift heralded by Uranus is exemplified in this work by the brilliant artist collective The Black Constellation, in their Ode to Octavia Series. Take a look, feel it and my message to you will click.

http://www.tumblr.com/tagged/danielleboodoofortune

For those of us who use the moon for our work, here are some additional stats:

· Herbs: honeysuckle, agrimony, lemon balm, hyssop, wild lettuce

· Flowers: lotus, water lily, jasmine

· Scents/Oils: frankincense, jasmine, spearmint

· Crystals: pearl, white agate, snow quartz, ocean jasper, nebula stone

· Trees: oak, acacia, ash

· Animals: crab, turtle, dolphin, whale

· Tarot: seven of wands

· Color: sea blue

Lunar Mansion (retrieved from the Lunar Mansion Ephemeris here):

On July 22- Mansion 24: Sa’d al-su’ud, The Star of Fortune, 25* Capricorn 42’ to 8* Aquarius 34’. Signification: Favourable for marriage, enterprises and friendships. Cast spells for the realisation of a wish.

To find out what areas in your chart will be most affected, look at where the moon and Aquarius fall. Also, look to your third house. If you don’t have a copy of your chart you can click here.

If you would like to receive more personalized information please contact me here for a natal chart interpretation.

As always, your comments and thoughts are always welcomed.

As you get ready to declare your intentions and gain more clarity during this moon I leave you with some poignant lyrics from Laura Mvula that exemplify the rebellious energy of the Aquarian Thunder Moon. Let’s let this vibe guide us…

“I will never be what you want and that’s alright,
Cause my skin ain’t light and my body ain’t tight.
And that’s alright.
But if I might, I must stand and fight.

I will never be what you want and that’s alright,
I play my own damn tune, I shine like the moon.
And very soon, I’ll soon fly over you.
And what you gonna do when I fly over you?”

- Ty Shaw

Additional References:

1. Moon Magick by D.J. Conway

2. Metu Neter Vol. 1 by Ra Un Nefer Amen

3. Christian Astrology by William Lilly

4. The Book of Stones by Robert Simmons and Naisha Ahsian

New Moon in Cancer July 2013

2013-07-07T00:53:00.001-04:00

Hello everyone!

Welcome to my first blog post! Each month I will post a write-up on the New Moon and the Full Moon. So let's jump right into the thick of things...this new moon cycle comes with some heavy emotional impacts.

“The child in each of us knows paradise.
Paradise is home.
Home as it was
Or home as it should have been...
Yet every child
Is cast from paradise-
Into growth and new community,
Into vast, ongoing change.” ― Octavia E. Butler, Parable of the Sower

Dark Moon in Cancer and Sirius

This Dark (New) Moon on July 8th, 2013 at 16* of Cancer magnifies the intensity of the Uranus-Pluto square. Cancer is the sign connected to mothering and nurturing in the Zodiac. It represents the home, the womb, and protection. New Moon in Cancer deals with themes around financial and emotional security, the need for nurturance and intimacy, our relationships with our mothers, and our emotional intelligence. This is a good time to be honest about whatever you’re feeling, share your emotions with someone you trust, get to the bottom of fears and limitations and explore the artist within. Create something that reflects your innermost feelings. This moon also supports your inner guidance system and intuition. The energy it brings nourishes creative, artistic and intuitive abilities. Chiron in Pisces supports the balanced energy flow with the Moon in Cancer. The New Moon brings us the opportunity to plant seeds for the things we wish to manifest and with Chiron in Pisces supporting our healing, we can use this time to work on the things that need to be healed in order to manifest our desires in the future. Pluto and Uranus are squaring the moon, pushing us to make tangible changes in our lives. Falling in the second decan of Cancer (which it rules), this New Moon is also owned by the star Sirius, the brightest in the night sky. Sirius historically has been associated with fame, honors and riches. Representing Auset (Ast; Greek: Isis) in the heavens, it has the qualities of Jupiter and Mars, it gives passion, wealth and faith. Also known as the Dog Star, it marks the onset of the Dog Days of Summer. With this moon Sirius brings: success in business, influential friends of the opposite sex, good health, beneficial changes in home or business[i].

This new moon also has it's North Node in Scorpio in the 6^th house and it's South Node in Taurus in the 12^th house. The North Node represents your path in life and oftentimes points towards karmic patterns that need to be resolved in this one. The South Node represents your past, what you are shedding and what needs to be left behind. Here the North node tell us that we must come out of isolation and work through our self-undoing. Fulfillment can come through service and connection. The South node tells us that we must transform ourselves. By embracing the divine will and submitting to spirit we can cultivate the gifts of our higher selves and the highest good. Releasing the weight of the past or the mistakes that make us ashamed of who we’ve been will guide us toward regeneration.

Mercury Retro to July 20th

We can’t forget that Mercury is retrograde in 18 degrees of Cancer until July 20^th. Cancer-a cardinal sign, fixed sign- is prone to flare up with all this emotional upheaval, especially in the face of continued miscommunication issues. With Mercury being influenced by Wasat in the second decan of Cancer. Of a Saturine nature, this star lends itself towards pessimism. Aside from that, it gives the quality of being able to speak with clear authority when others are wavering[ii]. Together, this combination could lead our perspectives to be jaded, and our feelings affect the way we see things. This is the time to do more listening than speaking, to go inward and stay in alignment with our truth.

Water Trine:

Jupiter is in Cancer as well, in the first decan, owned by the star Tejat Posterior (in the constellation of Gemini). It is forming a powerful trine to Neptune and Saturn- all in water signs. With all of this very emotional, watery energy, our best bet is to ride it out by just flowing with it and not trying to work against it. Surround yourself in beauty and inundate your mind with things that move your emotions and your spirit. Tejat Posterior (also known as Dirah or Al Han'ah)[iii] has the energy of Venus, pulling us further towards the arts and self-expression. With Neptune is retrograde until November. Our senses are high and we are intuiting everything. This is good because now we can see through the fog of Neptune a bit more clearly.

Saturn:
Saturn tells us where our deepest learning is and shows us where our challenges are. Expressing itself through Scorpio- Saturn shows us what we’ve been denying, hiding, and where the power struggles are. Here we find questions of ego, self-delusion, and psychic ability. With the new moon under the influence of Sirius, how will we connect to the water element- the feminine, the brightest star in the northern hemisphere- in order to chart the course back the wholeness? What are we willing to sacrifice? This begs us to ask ourselves: how will we transform? Are we willing to trust yourselves enough to follow our instincts? How are we caring for yourself? Does our speech reflect your feelings? At what point do we cease the process of intellectualizing the spiritual, and return to the work? And what will transformation (Uranus-Pluto square) look like after we've purged?

For more information on how this moon relates to you and what areas of life it affects, look to your second house and/or where your moon falls in your chart. Also, check your water signs to see what will be impacted. You can view your chart for free here.

Readings are available for more detailed information.

Additional Stats:
Lunar mansion: 9 Al-Tarf(a)[iv]
Associated Stars: Sirius, The moon is also squaring two stars in the Carina (Keel) of the Argo Navis constellation: Miaplacidus (Squ 0°15',s) and Foramen (Squ 1°31',s). The influence of the whole constellation of Argo Navis, the Great Ship, is that of Saturn and Jupiter: it is said to give prosperity and strength of mind and spirit.
Tarot Card: The High Priestess
Associated Crystals: Lapis Lazuli, Seraphinite

[i] Robson, p.209 The Fixed Stars and Constellations in Astrology by Vivian E. Robson (Author)

[ii] The Living Stars, Dr. Eric Morse, p.45.

[iii] http://constellationsofwords.com/stars/Stars_in_longitude_order.htm

[iv] http://starsandstones.wordpress.com/mansions-of-the-moon/lunar-mansions-ephemeris/