Starman Astrology Update with Astrologer, Joseph Mina

Capricorn Super Full Moon July 2023: Human Evolutionary Acceleration

2023-07-04T00:15:00.002+02:00

"You never change things by fighting the existing reality. To change something, build a new model that makes the existing model obsolete." Richard Buckminster Fuller - (1895-1983) American Architect, Inventor, Philosopher, and Futurist

“Look around you. Everything changes. Everything on this earth is in a continuous state of evolving, refining, improving, adapting, enhancing, and changing. You were not put on this earth to remain stagnant.” Dr. Steve Maraboli (1975 - ) Author and Philanthropist

Greetings from the Big Island of Hawaii

Full Moon plate by Joseph Mina

I'm taking a tropical break now from South Africa's winter. That means reorienting myself to a very different night sky, and an equally different seasonal vibration. Nonetheless, astrological themes, regardless of location and climate remain global in nature, applying their compelling themes across societies and cultures. And so we evolve. This Capricorn Full Moon is a vivid reminder of human society's quickening evolution.

Where and when: Capricorn Full Moon at 11° arrives today (July 3rd) across the globe. This is the very last Capricorn Full Moon that includes a Pluto transit in the sign of the goat. There won't be another such Capricorn Full Moon with Pluto in this astrological sign until 2254! While there will be two Capricorn Full Moon in July 2024, by then, Pluto will be in very early degrees of Aquarius. Symbolic? Indeed. Quite evolutionary, and given the historical context of Pluto's last passage over this late degree/early degree ground some 250 years ago in 1776-1778, perhaps revolutionary too.

This is the first of four successive Full Moons occurring close to the time of lunar perigee (closest to Earth), with the two August Full Moons closest of the four. A lunation close to perigee is considered a Super Moon, i.e. an amplified lunar vibration due to the symbolic nature of it being visually closer. This particular Moon is almost 30 hours before perigee. While one can make an argument about its "superness", it nonetheless is the least super of the group. Personally, sleep did not come easily last night. The intensity of the Full Moon in Hawaii was palpable.

Pluto entered Saturn-ruled Capricorn in 2008. And the Capricorn-fueled realms of politics, rules, law, business, and overall structural organizations have been rapidly transforming ever since. It's the age-old transformative process which fuels human evolution. When it comes to Pluto's transformative cycle, the astrological sign of Pluto's transit augurs a prolonged period of significant alterations, collapses, temporary expansions, and ultimately freedom from an outdated archetype. The ultimate rising from the ashes of the mystical phoenix is one of Pluto's hallmarks.

I arrived on the Big Island of Hawaii back on the evening of June 6th. Just 9 hours later, Kilauea volcano erupted for the second time in 2023, remaining active for 12 days. Quite exciting to witness the movement of lava in person (image below). Volcanic eruptions are vivid mirrors of archetypal Pluto's methodology. Pressure builds, energy expands, eruption occurs, transformation takes place, and new life eventually emerges.

Pele Dance by Joseph Mina

Overall themes of this 28-day lunar cycle: Restructuring reality - the way of the heart. Purging the unessential, while attuning to your heart's desires. The evolutionary flow aligning with your connection to yourself, personal connections, and the greater collective of humanity becomes stronger now.

Commencing with the second Aries New Moon back in April, the Full Moon became the primary theme setter for each 28-day lunation cycle. This flip of the astrological script continues through July 2024. Then, the lunar cycle will shift once again, back to the New Moon becoming the primary theme setter. This lunar shift occurs every 16 to 18 months.

Significant archetypal players over the next 28 days: Mercury in Cancer and later into Leo, Venus/Mars in Leo, then Mars in Virgo, Jupiter and Uranus in Taurus, Chiron in Aries, Saturn and Neptune in Pisces, and Pluto in Capricorn, all further amplified by the Super Moon effect.

Energetic patterns at play: Mercury has just completed its superior conjunction of the Sun, where the fleet-winged messenger is on the opposite side of the Sun from Earth's perspective. This phase of Mercury's transit has had all the makings of a Mercury Retrograde, albeit a very quick one. Recent communication and transportation snafus in the news during the last week of June through now underscore this effect. As Mercury has been transiting the sign of Cancer during this period, matters involving home, family and community vis-a-vis Capricorn's rules, laws, and business matters have been highlighted. Anyone who recently had their airline flight cancelled due to weather and understaffing issues will attest to this challenging theme. This is particularly amplified for anyone with placements in early to mid-degree cardinal signs (Aries, Cancer, Libra, Capricorn).

Meanwhile, Pluto's recent return to Capricorn on June 11th, after 80 days at 0° Aquarius, has further amplified the tumultuous nature of life-altering events since the onset of the 2020 pandemic.

Synopsis: With Pluto in Capricorn now coming back into close aspect with Neptune in Pisces, this lunation reminds us that amplified physical and emotional fire and water related events through next January are going to be part of life's day-to-day occurrences. This includes matters driven by climate, politics, migrations, and business and finance. Particularly affected will be those with late degree placements in Cardinal and Mutable (Gemini/Virgo/Sagittarius/Pisces) signs.

What's easy: Both the Moon in Capricorn and Jupiter in Taurus form a sextile (60° angle) with Saturn in Pisces, with a resulting trine (120° angle) connecting expansive Jupiter and the pragmatic Moon. This combination can somewhat soften the otherwise challenging components of this lunation if you partake in the natural world, stay grounded, and loosely plan your day-to-day focus and emphasis.

What's challenging: a change in the lunar nodes is underway during this lunation from Taurus/Scorpio to Aries/Libra (nodes change from sign-to-sign every 18.6 months). The shift to Aries/Libra will immediately create a nodal square (90° angle) with Pluto in Capricorn, and a nodal semi-sextile (30° angle) with Neptune in Pisces. One's individuated desires vs the compromises of relationship will come under the spotlight in the coming months, particularly in the realms of Capricorn's rules, laws, politics, the courts, and business matters, and Pisces penchant for mystical, dream-like or even delusional perceptions of reality. Further, Chiron in Aries, and its focus on reclaiming one's individuated sense of self, will move retrograde through December, having a strong influence on matters of health, especially for those around 19, 27, 33, 50, 70, 78 and 83 years of age, or having cardinal-sign placements between 14° and 20° Aries/Cancer/Libra/Capricorn.

Meanwhile, Venus and Mars in Leo will continue in lock-step until mid-month, when Venus' movement slows as it nears its coming epic retrograde on the 23rd. Here, Mars continues its forward transit into health-conscious Virgo. This tight Leo combination poses strong challenges around emotional matters of the heart. The last time these two transited Leo together was in the summer of 2021, when the world was coping with pandemic fallout. Particularly affected are fixed sign placements from 12° to 29° in Taurus/Leo/Scorpio/Aquarius.

Venus Plate by Joseph Mina

Venus Retrograde: every 18 months or so, Venus moves in retrograde motion from Earth's perspective. Here, Venus moves between the Sun and Earth, shifting from the evening to the morning predawn sky. The previous Venus Retrograde was in January 2022, when Venus, and in conjunction to Pluto, remained in Capricorn for over 3 months.

This particular retrograde is quite significant for several reasons:
- stations retrograde at the same Leo degree (29°) as the grand total eclipse of August 2017, that bisected the United States.
- Venus will create a yod configuration with Pluto in Capricorn and Neptune in Pisces at station retrograde. A yod is a paradoxical geometry, encouraging you to think/act differently in the realms of trust and unusual alliances. All late degree placements in Cardinal, Fixed and Mutual signs will be influenced by this configuration
- given the Pluto/Neptune outer planetary nature of this yod configuration, a stronger emphasis and encouragement is placed on soul searching relative to matters of the heart, what you value in your life, your sense of self-worth, and the balance of material possessions versus your actual, practical needs
- Venus retrogrades 5 times every 8 years, returning to its original placement 8 years earlier, but one degree offset. This configuration creates a star pentagram. At this retrograde, Venus begins a 100+ yr movement in its retrogrades through the sign of Leo. That's a significant shift in energy.
- this retrograde period is not a time to enter into a marriage commitment
- towards the latter stages of the retrograde, Mercury too will begin a retrograde on August 23rd (21°) through Sept 15 (8°) in the sign of Virgo, adding matters of health and service to the overall Venus mix. That will include an opposition with Saturn in Pisces on August 1

- timings for this Venus retrograde: entered the retrograde shadow on June 18th at 12° Leo; stations retrograde on July 22/23 at 29° Leo; stations direct on Sept 3/4 at 12° Leo: leaves the retrograde shadow Oct 7 at 29° Leo

Suggestions for this lunation:
- receive bodywork
- focus on physical exercise and matters of health
- avoid, or at the very least minimize, conflicting mental ad hominem debates
- attune to the natural world
- be creative either alone, or with others - dance, draw, create, play
- find quiet, daily reflective time - particularly true for nurturing the inner feminine parts of your psyche.

Suggested questions for reflection:
- What does it mean to me to follow the desires of my heart?
- Am I experiencing passion and expansion in my intimate relationships?
- What am I ready to restructure in my life to better align with my heart's desires?
- What am I ready to let go of?
- How can I better nurture myself?
- How do I perceive myself in an evolutionary sense as part of the evolving Aquarian mythos?

Hubble Deep Field via NASA

Conclusion:
Planetary cycles are part of a web of experiences. No planetary cycle is island unto itself. While a cycle will eventually come to an end, its influence is woven into the evolutionary fabric of humanity, continuing its rippling effect in concert with all that has come before it.

As I shared in part this past April at the second Aries New Moon, "a prime opportunity exists to delve deeper, discover or reinvigorate your passion, and rededicate yourself to making a difference in this world of massive change and exponentially growing inter-connection and collaboration." This is particularly true during this building Venus retrograde phase.

As I look ahead, the coming months augur a challenging time for humanity. Pluto will remain in late degrees of Capricorn in sextile to Neptune until January 20, 2024, and one last time between early September to mid-November 2024. Outer planetary transits at 0° or 29° of any sign amplify the transformative nature of that transit.

We are just two years from July 2025, when Saturn, Uranus, Neptune and Pluto come into aspect to each other in early degrees of air and fire signs (Aquarius/Aries/Gemini). That's a significant shift from the current earth/water influences of Pluto in Capricorn, Saturn/Neptune in Pisces, and Uranus in Taurus.

This now building two-year period will prove preparatory and challenging for a human society going through the throes of a massive evolutionary shift in connection and technology. Yet remember, diamonds and other similar crystals undergo enormous pressures to fashion their extraordinary beauty and grace. It's no different for humans. We are here to evolve, and in turn, support the evolution of humanity.

Such are the powerful, transformative times in which we live. May your evolving growth serve the greater good and evolution of humanity.

Please leave any comments below (moderated before appearing)

Aloha from Big Island, Hawaii
Starman, Joseph Mina
July 3, 2023

Aries New Moon April 20: Endings and Beginnings

2023-04-19T17:14:00.010+02:00

“Never underestimate the power you have to take your life in a new direction.”
Germany Kent (1975- ) Author and Journalist

“When the winds of change blow, some people build walls and others build windmills.” — Chinese Proverb

Winds of change, indeed!
Greetings from the Western Cape of South Africa

plate creation by Joseph Mina

In this blog, I will cover the coming Eclipsed New Moon in Aries, and its implications. This is a north node eclipse, which augurs a period of growth, stretching, or a building energy. Something wants to emerge for all to see. And that includes a few images of mine, with their backstory. These images will speak to the eclipse theme of Endings and Beginnings. Also, I'll offer some suggestions for reflection and meditation at this powerful New Moon window.

About this New Moon:

We arrive at the most potent of New Moon's. This one at the very end degrees of Aries (29.5°) and eclipsed too. That's quite a rare combo. A solar eclipse in Aries stirs inner courage and passion for life, or brings to awareness where such is lacking or deficient. It implies something new wants to emerge, which also means something may need to end in order to make space for the new.

Both solar and lunar eclipses are inward, reflective periods, whose chart dynamics are expressed through the coming six months. Solar eclipses point to a time of transition. Lunar eclipses point to breakdowns or breakthroughs. This particular New Moon in Aries strongly points to a time of "Endings and Beginnings". It transits my 9th astrological house of the higher mind, self discovery, and long distance travels (I'm off to the USA for a visit in early May). Which astrological house does this New Moon transit in your natal chart?

If you have late degree natal planetary placements in a cardinal sign (Aries, Cancer, Libra and Capricorn), or early degree fixed sign placements (Taurus, Leo, Scorpio, Aquarius), you will be especially in the thick of these shifting New Moon transformational currents.

First about the eclipse itself:

New Moon timing occurs on the 20th just after midnight from the East Coast, United States, then on the same day east to the International Date Line. Universal Time is 04:12. Here in South Africa at 06:12a, And going in the other direction, from the Central USA, New Moon is just after 11 pm on the 19th, then an hour earlier for each time zone west to the International Date Line.

Eclipsed New Moon
courtesy of Guy Otwell

At New Moon, Luna will pass directly in front of the Sun as seen from the southeastern Indian Ocean. This passage will initially create an annular eclipse (ring of fire). Then as it approaches Australia, the eclipse will shift into a total eclipse of only a minute or so. That's quick, and quite Aries like.

First landfall in Australia falls upon a very small sliver of land in the northwest, west of the fabled Kimberly Mountains. That sparsely populated area just last week endured a category 5 cyclone with winds in excess of 150 mph or 240 km/h!. And today (19th) Papua New Guinea recorded a 6.3 earthquake, which also happens to be quite close to the eclipse path. Talk about sweeping the front porch for an eclipse! Uncanny how a building or waning eclipse energy triggers geophysical and weather events, Scientist have learned an enormous amount about our Day Star, yet there remains much that is not scientifically understood about the Sun's energetic influence on the Earth's atmosphere and inner structure.

Once clear of Australia, the Moon's shadow sweeps near East Timor, onto eastern Indonesia, and lastly moves across the vast stretches of the southern Pacific Ocean. At this stage, the Moon's shadow will shift back to its annular phase just before sunset local time.

Astrological significance of this eclipsed Moon:

Here's the annotated chart:

That large circle points to an abundance of Aries energy (1), the Mercury/Uranus connection (2) and Mars/Chiron square (3).

This New Moon's late degree position is of particular importance. The last degree of any zodiac sign is its most intense expression (also referred to a the "anaretic degree"). Since Feb 11, when transformational Pluto moved to 29° Capricorn, the full effect of this 29° placement was set in motion for the ensuing 600 days, or until later November, 2024. This period marks Pluto's crossing back and forth across the threshold between the signs of Capricorn and Aquarius. My last blog highlighted this contrast.

At the same time, dream-like Neptune is edging ever nearer to 29° Pisces and its own transition to a new sign.That shift occurs between Pisces and Aries from May, 2024 to January, 2026. And ever quick, out-of-the-blue Uranus, transitions from Taurus to Gemini between June, 2025 and April, 2026.

Combined, that's a rather extraordinary shift in generationally-triggered outer planetary energy. This is a rarity to have major planetary archetypes shifting energy around the same time from one sign to the next.

Nonetheless, remember these outer planetary shifts are slow in their unfolding. Outer planetary transitions between signs are inevitably strong. The slow shift from one elemental vibration to another has broad implications for our societal flow. Yet, faster moving transitions, such as this New Moon, serve a purpose too. Straddling the Aries/Taurus boundary, twelve minutes after New Moon, Luna enters body-centric, value-driven Taurus, creating a square angle with Pluto in Aquarius at 0°. The Sun follows four hours later to create that same angle.

A square or 90° angle implies challenges ahead. Taurus points to possessions, money, values, self-esteem and the strength of the body. The Moon/Sun square with Pluto at an eclipse asks the question "how do my lifestyle choices and values align with the progressively-driven values of Aquarius?" That question pertains to both external (Sun) and internal (Moon) reflections.

Taurus likes stability and certainty. Beauty fills it field. Aquarius desires progressive change, social equality and interaction, and social justice. It points to the future, where technology becomes even more integrated in societal functions and behaviors. This contrast in energy between stability and change will be particularly vivid during July's Venus Retrograde in Leo. (more on that in a bit).

In essence, this second Aries New Moon since the March Equinox reminds us change is in the air, whether we welcome it or not. And to have a solar eclipse occurring at such a late degree in Mars-ruled Aries is quite the exclamation point.

Two other significant placements occur at this Aries lunation.
(you mean there's even more??? 😱).

The day after New Moon, Mercury now transiting Taurus, moves (you guessed it!) retrograde. We have just crossed the "now, that's just plain piling on!" portion of this lunation.😉 At that station retrograde point, Mercury is almost at the same degree as Uranus in Taurus. That means Mercury, ruler of information exchanges, movement, ideas, and communication channels, will bring Uranus' unpredictable vibration into this coming retrograde period. In other words, "expect nothing, be prepared for anything."

By May 15th, Mercury positions at 6° of Taurus, stationing direct at that degree for a few days, and almost at the same degree as the lunar north node. Such placement indicates potential turmoil during this retrograde in financial markets, including crypto currency. It also further highlights issues coming to the fore now involving societal values, i.e. what is valuable, acceptable, or has no further redeeming value to society. Also, look for unexpected events or breakthroughs involving the Earth's climate, as Taurus reflects the power and beauty of nature.

The other chart dynamic getting attention is Mars, ruler of Aries in square to Chiron (wounding) in Aries. First, no Aries new or full Moon conversation would be meaningful without including this planetary ruler into the exchange.

As you may recall, Mars retrograde in Aries between September and early November 2020, was quite the intense period of time. Pandemic was on no one's 2020 bingo card. Continued lockdowns, turmoil in schools, social disruptions, US Presidential election, rebellion in Europe, and unrest in many other places around the world marked this very intense retrograde cycle..

Well, that Mars retrograde began at 28° Aries (essentially the same degree as this lunation), and created challenging angles with Saturn, Pluto and Jupiter in Capricorn. So that establishes linkage between these two cycles. More so, back in 2020, the North Lunar Node positioned at 25° Gemini when Mars stationed retrograde. So energetically, a good dose of Capricorn's rigid structure, Aries spontaneous fire, and Gemini's unpredictable behavior prevailed. That's a formula for societal chaos. And it did not disappoint..

Mars' most recent retrograde cycle, just completed in early January of this year, began in October, 2022 at 25° Gemini. That linkage with 2020 is important to note also, as Gemini adds a strong air of unpredictability to this current mix, courtesy of Venus in Gemini. At 9° Gemini at this lunation, Venus will cross over 25° Gemini on May 3rd. Mark that week in your calendars as a time for heightened awareness, especially with Mercury in retrograde and Mars in square to Chiron (see below, last paragraph in this section).

To summarize: add Mars' 2020 influence into this New Moon theme, plus a good dash of Mercury Retrograde, and a quick dash of Gemini, and voila, a cosmic soup for the ages. Honestly, there is no telling how this mix is going to spin. It seems rather chaotic to me. Yet, in such chaos, there is opportunity. Also, heightened creativity. Where the attention goes, so does the energy. Nonetheless,, this unusual period will be noted by many astrologers for future reference. We are on some very new ground here..

Lastly, As briefly mentioned above, Mars position at this lunation is 13° Cancer, which creates a building challenge with Chiron in Mars' home sign of Aries The most intense phase will be between April 26th to May 4th. Mars in Cancer can be quite protective and insular. Its square angle to Aries/Chiron highlights where such behavior diminishes or impinges on one's individuation and sense of self. Also, depending where transiting Mars positions relative to your natal chart, it can highlight instances where your individuation ran counter to Cancer's family or community oriented tribal values. The remedy here is to nurture your mind, body, and spirit in the coming months. Be proactive.Take the time now to strengthen yourself for the days ahead.

Suggested reflections for this New Moon period:

What wants to end, or begin in my life? Am I resisting or supporting this flow?
What does stability mean to me? Is it more important than freedom? How do I find balance?
How can I create greater internal strength in the coming days?
And a special one for those with Aries placements in their natal chart: Do I follow the impulses that come to me, or do I hesitate? How does that behavior affect my choices?

Endings and Beginnings

Imagery can be an evocative catalyst. Its development can even prove quite cathartic. Such was the case during a two-week landscape photography workshop in Africa's Namibia. During the workshop, we traveled to the now-deserted German diamond mining town of Kolmanskop near the coastal city of Luderitz. Our photography lesson: reflect on times life was falling apart. Convey that feeling through imagery.

Endings

This first image shows the entire town, which I photographed from our plane as we were landing. Each of these buildings is in a state of significant disrepair, which makes for a evocative photography lesson. The relentless drift of sand dunes in the area has filled its many buildings over the past 75 years.

(if on a computer or tablet, click or tap on the image to see a larger version)

The now deserted mining town of Kolmanskop, near Luderitz, Namibia

This now deserted mining town was built in the early 1900's to create a secure location for the processing of plentiful diamonds found in the area. No one entered or left without passing through the first metal detector brought to Africa's south. By 1930, a significantly larger cache of diamonds was discovered hundreds of kilometers to the south. This led to the town's German workers deserting this once thriving town, literally overnight . Since that fated day, the relentless drift of the nearby Namib desert, second largest in the world, has turned this once bustling mining town into a very sandy grave. The relentless decaying cycle of the natural world is a vivid reminder of endings.

As I walked from building to building, I reflected on how my life had seemingly imploded at significant points of my life journey. This second image is the interior of a home, now claimed by the forces of nature. The play of sunlight streaming through the ceiling of the buildings I explored (there were way too many to see in just one afternoon) made for compelling perspectives, each requiring time to simply process the inevitability of a structure falling apart. It was also a poignant reminder that life always follows death.

This particular scene I found both disconcerting and fascinating. To think, a thriving community filled with workers once existed here. But no more. The song "Dust In The Wind" by the group Kansas started playing in my head after a few hours at this mining town.

The Sands Of Time

The third image, a self-portrait, was taken when I simply stopped and reflected on the endings of my two marriages. Little did I realize in that moment that cathartic, internal forces within me had already awakened, setting the stage for the next 24 hours.

Reflective Endings

At first, my throat felt raspy. By the time we reached our hotel later that afternoon, I was feeling quite feverish. Instead of joining the group for a celebration dinner, I spent the entire night into the next morning bed ridden with chills, muscle ache, a 103°F (39.5°c) fever, and a pounding headache. I thought this might be the unexpected end of my trip. Some in the group thought a doctor ought to be called. Yet, I knew from other inner work I've done, my body was purging quite a bit of sorrow from my depths. By the next afternoon I felt different and much more alive. Others in the group were astonished at the quick turnaround. The downside: I missed a great dinner party, plus a morning trip back to the mining town. The upside: I felt so much lighter and energized.

Beginnings

Here, my thoughts turn to Zimbabwe. As part of another photography group, this time touring Botswana and Zimbabwe, we were invited as guests to a large celebration gathering (over 600 people) from four local villages in Zimbabwe's southeast corner, which borders western Mozambique and northeastern South Africa. This area includes the massive national park of Gonarezhou.

The festive celebration was a year in the making. The day included demonstrations of dance, gardening, medicine, basket weaving, food preparation, and archery. By western standards, the lifestyle here might be considered "primitive". As I would learn from these lovely people, the qualities of faith, simplicity, efficiency, connection to nature, cooperation and collaboration serve as the foundational pillars of their village life. It was akin to watching the book The Continuum Concept come to life. The joy on young and older faces alike reflected the beauty of this existence.

Our group of eleven had such an enjoyable and inspiring time. Everyone felt welcomed and embraced by everyone there. Through many demonstrations, I learned how the various village life creates a sustainable existence. Touring a bountiful community garden, which thrived despite an intense drought at the time, was eye-opening. The most memorable highlight was witnessing how the children played together in joyful, respectful and engaging and creative ways.

Unquenchable Curiosity

At one point, my friend Jonatas from Brazil took a picture of these children in the above image. This was the first time they saw a picture of themselves taken with a digital camera. Their eyes say it all. The wonder, the mystery, the unquenchable curiosity and enthusiasm, and their kindness was startling, refreshing and inspiring to witness.

This trip followed the ending of a meaningful relationship in South Africa a few months earlier. At that juncture I thought I was finished with Africa. Yet this trip, which I learned about rather serendipitously while in Philadelphia that August, was filled with the energy of massive animals, heart-felt people, joyful children, starry nights, and soulful connections. Four years later, I realize Africa was just beginning with me back then. And it simply will not let me go.

Beginnings do not need to start with fanfare. In the Aries mold of beginnings, courage to face fears, and determination to pursue a path, opens one to life's spontaneity, serendipity, and beauty. Inevitably one door leads to another, then another etc. And to quote Tolkien's character Bilbo in the Hobbit, "and wither then, I cannot say."

Conclusion

During a recent astrological consultation, a client marveled I was able to interpret his chart in such a vivid fashion. "You bring this information to life", he told me.

Astrological charts reveal energetic cycles in a myriad of ways. Interpreting such is an art form requiring insight, imagination, persistence and child-like curiosity.

Today, I find it heartening to witness so many people not only discovering the depth of astrology for the first time, but looking for ways to use its guidance in their life. As I have shared with clients, the quality, intensity and uniqueness of any natal or event chart is quite the guide for deeper knowing, soul growth, and heightened, conscious participation in life. That process embraces the past for its connections, lessons, and understanding; welcomes the present for invention, creativity, opportunity and collaboration; and looks to the future for inspiration, vision, and greater service.

Over time, many people in the field of Astronomy have come to consider astrology as flawed or woo-woo for a variety of misaligned or misunderstood reasons. Nonetheless, the study of astrology is a vastly different understanding than astronomy's quest. While both use the same cosmic pallet, Astrology adds significant depth, archetypal understanding, and spiritual connection for those who gaze skyward at our home galaxy and beyond for greater soul understanding, growth and integration. I'm glad I can bridge both of these worlds, Both fields of discovery and learning are so valuable.

On a personal level, I've been fortunate to view four total and three annular eclipses during the last 30 years, a host of total and partial lunar eclipses, and many other celestial events. These experiences fill my soul like no other. I'm vividly reminded at times such as these, the human race is on an evolutionary track, guided by forces beyond our human comprehension.

"Sky Church" is the ultimate cathedral for me. Yet, the pervasive glow of the heavens touches everyone indiscriminately. This highly-energized Aries New Moon is a powerful moment in time to receive from these Universal forces via whatever spiritual practice is meaningful to you. A prime opportunity exists to delve deeper, discover or reinvigorate your passion, and rededicate yourself to making a difference in this world of massive change and exponentially growing inter-connection and collaboration.

On New Moon day, Elon Musk's Space Exploration Technologies Corp plans to launch the largest rocket ever. This launch is a precursor for future lunar landings, and even eventually a manned transport to Mars. Launch was planned for this past Monday, but was scrubbed due to an equipment malfunction. Seems symbolic that this first of its kind rocket will launch on this potent Aries day. Beginnings!

And, in two weeks time, the Full Moon in Scorpio will be a partial eclipse, and almost opposite to Uranus in Taurus. This will be the precursor for Jupiter's entrance into Taurus on May 19th (last there in 2011-12). Jupiter's expansiveness will get a good dose of Taurus' practical nature during its year's journey in Taurus. Perhaps a good dose of grounding would benefit everyone.

Lastly, this past Saturday, I co-hosted a 90-minute astrology presentation about the coming eclipses and Venus Retrograde with astrologer Maurice Fernandez of Sedona, Arizona. This was the first time we worked together, despite knowing each other for the past 10 years.. We did this through the technological wonder called Zoom. It was quite the energizing event connecting people from many parts of the world. Over 30 attended. Others who could not make it, registered nonetheless for later viewing. If you would like a video recording of the presentation ($20 USD), please contact Maurice. A lot to be gleaned from our back and forth exchange.

As always, your comments below are most welcomed.

Many blessings for this New Moon day from the Autumn grace of the Western Cape.

Sat Nam
Starman, Joseph Mina
Stellenbosch, South Africa
April 19, 2023

Collective Ignition 2023: Equinox, Aries New Moon and Pluto into Aquarius

2023-03-21T03:05:00.003+02:00

“Humanity faces…the deepest social upheaval and creative restructuring of all time. Without clearly recognizing it, we are engaged in building a remarkable new civilization from the ground up. This is the meaning of the Third Wave.”
Alvin Toffler, author of Future Shock. (1931-2018)

“History doesn't repeat Itself, but It often rhymes” – Mark Twain

Creative Design by Joseph Mina

So true, the succinct words of Mark Twain.

Greetings Lovers of the Cosmos,

The Autumn vibe now builds in these South African parts while the northern hemisphere awakens to the warmth of spring and its vast potential.

This week, an “Astrological Trifecta” (my term) takes place featuring the Equinox today (20th), a very engaging/potent New Moon on the 21st, just 20 hours later at that, and the first of three ingresses of Pluto into progressive Aquarius, this one lasting 80 days.

Quite the lineup, each of which will be the primary focus of this blog. In my last (January) blog about the Cycles of 2023, I mentioned my next entry would feature some of my more recent photography. I’ll send out another blog soon doing just that. Given their historical and energetic implications, these cycles are first in line.

Astrological Trifecta:

Vernal Equinox - whether you live in the northern or southern hemisphere, the astrological significance of the March/Aries equinox is the same, i.e. creating/starting something new. Aries vibe exudes novelty. Highly creative. Boundless energy measured paradoxically in short measures. Fearless and courageous. Each quality exemplifies what makes Aries so individuated and unique.

At this solar alignment point, you can prepare for the coming 3-months by reinvigorating, realigning, and/or rebalancing priorities. That includes, if you haven't done so, setting in motion an intention for where you want to place your focus in the coming season. To help you in that regard, each Equinox or Solstice lays out a specific theme based on chart dynamics for the coming season. Such is described below.

Significant to this Equinox timing:

Equinox occurs later today at 23:24 in South Africa, and to all points west, while it all be the 21st for Eastern Europe east to the International Date Line. For specific time zone conversion, Universal Time is 21:24.

Below is the astrology chart for the Equinox for those interested in its construction, or are drawn by its inherent mandala-like geometry. It is unusual, yet certainly indicative of these times, for such a strong compression of various archetypes to appear in one quadrant of the chart (lower right). Resembles an arrow ready to launch.

In that regard, imagine you are pulling back on a bow. Here, the direction of the arrow points towards 11 o'clock and the asteroid Ceres at 0° Libra. Ceres placement in your natal chart highlights the importance of nurturing yourself. In Libra, this feeling of being nurtured pertains to friends, co-workers, as well as how you value and nurture yourself. See my previous blog for a more comprehensive understanding of Ceres in 2023.

Equinox Theme - strong elements of completion (Pisces), beginnings (Aries), and grounding (Taurus), dominate this day’s vibration, along with a very strong transformational vibe courtesy of Pluto at 29 Capricorn, just about to enter Aquarius on the 23rd.

Mars still navigating unpredictable Gemini (3 o'clock on chart), now in its late degrees, imbues this theme with a strong sense of unpredictable, seemingly random, spontaneous events, including weather and geological influences.

Further, with a waning Moon in Pisces today, close to late degree Neptune, a soulful component is added to the overall seasonal theme ahead. This represents a time to sow new initiatives borne out of your life purpose (soul essence reflected in your natal chart), and further strengthen your desires for living a fruitful life in service to the human family’s evolution (so many possibilities in that realm). Acts of meaningful kindness, compassion and empathy will be integral to this seasonal expression.

Courtesy of Sky & Telescope

Aries New Moon
Each year has an Aries New Moon, in either later March, or sometimes April. This particular New Moon happens to station at the 0° mark, which is a very strong exclamation point for something new. As I mentioned, this timing is just 20 hours after the equinox. An Aries New Moon further reinforces the previously described equinox theme.

As seen in the above illustration from a Northern Hemisphere perspective, on the 22nd, be sure to look westward for the thinest of waxing lunar crescents. It will be positioned about 10 degrees (a fist held at arm’s length) above the horizon point where the Sun disappeared, approximately 40 minutes or so earlier at sunset. You may need binoculars. You will definitely need a clear horizon. Jupiter will be immediately below the Moon. This is a great opportunity to reinforce and anchor the "as above, so below" experience. Some sort of related ritual adds even more meaning to the experience.

Given the astrological year begins at 0° Aries, a strong lunar placement at 0 degrees points to Aries raw emotional power of novelty, impulsive actions, creative juices flowing, and some sort of demonstrative action.

Having an Aries New Moon coinciding with the Vernal Equinox has only happened twice in the last hundred or so years (1909 and 1985). There have been six other near occurrences, but on the other side of the equinox fence at 29° Pisces in 1920, 1939, 1958,1977,1996, and 2015 for a very late degree Pisces New Moon. The 2015 event included a total solar eclipse over the north pole and northern Europe. How special, yet challenging too.

Eclipses, most especially those occurring at an equinox or solstice point, augur strong waves ahead in the coming months. For example, 2015's New Moon solar eclipse underscored the societal tumult that ultimately evolved into 2020's chaos and its ongoing globally-spread rippling effects.

Given this current lunation is only 20 hours after the Equinox, the aforementioned equinox theme continues, with the Moon, now in Aries, bringing a strong emotional "I'm ready" component into this quick changing and very fluid energetic landscape.

More so, the alignment of the solar (Equinox) and lunar (New Moon) cycles blends the archetypal power of these two occurrences at a time when the directed solar energy shifts its emphasis from water (Pisces) to fire (Aries). In that regard, on the external, our day star has been very active of late as it nears its solar maximum in 2025. Space Weather website can provide you the specifics.

An active Sun translates into very active weather patterns and geophysical reactions, such as earthquakes and volcanic eruptions. There's been quite a few strong earthquakes of late around the Pacific ring of fire (strong one in northern Peru/southern Ecuador the other day) and the massive one in Turkey in early February..

The solar wind moves the atmosphere. It pulses its solar intensity in a variety of ways, further amplifying its interaction with everything in the solar system. And sometimes with much more strength than expected.

While Uranus continues its 8-year transit across Earth-like Taurus, these type of stronger weather events may persist through 2026. For example, the longer than expected la Nina weather pattern, that brought copious amounts of rain to Australia and eastern South Africa over the last 3 summers, recently abated, only to be replaced by enormous weather systems crossing the northern Pacific, bringing record levels of rainfall into what had been a very drought-stricken California.

Here in the Western Cape, a very changeable, turbulent weather system arrived overnight for this equinox, filling the morning with intense 30 minute or shorter showers, very gusty winds, and brilliant sunshine dancing in and out of the clouds. Quite the Aries start. i'll share more about the equinox magic here in my concluding remarks near the end of this blog. And now....

Pluto Ingress into Aquarius:

Pluto's first Aquarius ingress since 1778, when a fledgling United States battled England for its sovereign rights as a nation, will be just 80 days (March 23 - June 11) while remaining n at the 0° mark. This is the exact degree where Jupiter and Saturn positioned at the 2020 December solstice. Placements at the 0 or 29° of a sign, amplify all expressions of that sign. So expect a noticeable start to this epic change in sign and related elements (Earth to Air).

Further, this short 80-day period will create context for what to expect from Pluto during its 20-year transit in Aquarius. Children born during this transit will have a heightened desire to associate with others at a group level, especially as adults. Technology and the cosmos will excite and influence their social choices and engagements. And social justice/equality initiatives will be their fuel and power.

Pluto-cycle transitional years from one sign to the next have historically proven to be quite intense over the course of this transition, but transformative too. At a minimum, shifting from a Capricorn to an Aquarian vibration will signal the beginnings of a significant realignment of social, governmental and corporate power structures around the world. Already there's evidence of such a shift from recent mass protests in France, Peru, and a number of other countries, including the United States over the past two years.

Also, it will be a time where technology becomes a more integrated and influential aspect of our reality. For example, the now rapid rise of artificial intelligence (AI) is proving a highly disruptive force to the older Capricorn structured ways of creating informational content. The sudden emergence of ChatGPT and other similar AI tools are forcing schools to reevaluate how pupils create content through their writing, as well as the structure of their learning processes. It's also being discussed in conversations across all aspects of society. Three years ago, discussion of such in most social circles was rare. No longer.

Other Aquarian effects will include producing more advanced/sophisticated technological products, designed to expand our awareness of each other and the Cosmos. The James Webb Space telescope (JWST) is a prime example. This image taken of a vast star nursery dubbed "Tarantula Nebula" for its spider like features, is found in a neighboring galaxy some 165,000 light years away. The level of detail here is far beyond anything previously seen.

James Webb Space Telescope Tarantula Nebula

Back to this Pluto cycle, this transformative transit will also possibly evoke a more progressive approach toward societal challenges around the globe, which would include addressing and seeking resolution for issues such as homelessness, forced migrations, income disparity, and human trafficking.

The shadow element here is equally daunting, and one requiring heightened awareness as to its implications. Its extreme shadow includes efforts to effect dark governmental control (dystopia) over the masses. Books/movies such as The Hunger Games and The Handmaid's Tale are two of many media examples of a potential dark future; Aldous Huxley's renowned 1932 literary work Brave New World, is another."

Next year, Pluto will reenter Aquarius on January 24 for 8 months, with one last Capricorn transit (the culmination of Pluto's Capricorn transits since 2008) for approximately 2 months, before returning to Aquarius, where it remains for the next 19 years.

Yet, an abrupt, massive change from Capricorn’s steadiness/reliability to Aquarius progressive initiatives will likely not take place during the first 80 days, but become more evident as this Pluto transition matures through November of next year. Akin to a pot of water being heated, the temperature will rise slowly at first, but by 2025, the more dynamic effects of this 20-year transit will be much more evident.

The fixed signs of Taurus, Leo, Scorpio and Aquarius will undergo a Plutonian transformation during this 20-year period. For now, any significant placements in your natal chart that fall in the 0 to 5 degree range of these fix signs will start to feel this building pressure on and off until late 2024. Thereafter with more intensity as Pluto remains in Aquarius.

And one more:

Action-oriented Mars, and ruler of Aries, and co-ruler of Scorpio, will finally enter the sign of Cancer on March 25th. This follows a rather protracted time in Gemini courtesy of the recent Mars retrograde, which commenced last October. Its transit in Cancer concludes May 20th.

In Cancer, Mars focus will be family/community oriented, perhaps offering a softer or more sensitive expression towards others struggling, or in need of support. Internally, a feeling of caution and safety may be prevalent during this time as family and community-related issues dominate. This is particularly true for anyone having strong natal placements in the cardinal signs of Aries, Cancer, Libra, and Capricorn. More to come….

Reflections for this new season:

To what pursuits do I now feel drawn and why?

What is my current soul vision for this life path I walk?

How can I integrate/ground that vision in a meaningful way?

What steps are necessary to create a more meaningful connection to the natural world?

How can I strengthen and express my core values in an affirming, inclusive fashion?

Concluding Thoughts:

Whale Meditation Circle by Joseph Mina

To celebrate my recent birthday, I joined Sacred Sites researcher and geomancer Dean Liprini and a group of 15 on a day journey to the quartz caves along the upper mountain slopes above Kalk Bay, which is near Simon Town on False Bay. Near the top, (about 700 meters or 2,000 ft), the landscape is an amazing pharmacy of native, medicinal plants, caves, and stunning rock formations.

Eons ago, when sea levels were much higher on the planet, this mountain area bordered an inland sea navigated by whales and other sea life. Whale bones have been unearthed in this area. Sea sand can be seen throughout the upper slopes. So remarkable.

At the top, a very large, tripod-like rock was somehow placed there long, long ago by bushmen tribes, who thrived in these mountainous areas. The openings of this tripod-like rock structure aligns with the Solstice and Equinox points. Below, and circling the mountain slopes, you'll find quartz cave-like shelters offering protection from the elements. At one of these caves, Dean led us in a whale meditation (image above).

This was my 2nd trip to that location. And as with the first time, the experience was quite profound and inspiring. My inner Aquarius thrives in these type of experiences. This and a solo mushroom journey I did on my birthday two days later were the perfect combination for expanding awareness, and attuning to the current vibrations emanating from the Earth at this most sacred and profound times of change we now experience.

Like a teapot in the early stages of boiling, the ethers in which we live are now exhibiting new pressures. It was just 38 days ago Pluto moved to 29 degrees of Capricorn: its most intense placement in that earthly sign. Capricorn-driven financial markets since have been quite unpredictable. Only last week, 3 significant bank failures occurred in rapid order, reminiscent of the early days of 2008 when Pluto first entered Capricorn. As witnessed and experienced over the past three years, the very structural components of how nations are organized on a national and international basis are seemingly falling apart in the Capricorn areas of rules, laws, business, politics and organizations. Life can appear quite fragmented and chaotic at times like these, especially when it is quite a challenge to discern what's on the other side of this massive energetic shift.

Structural aspects of a more egalitarian, interconnected world society are pervasively replacing these “old ways” of the 20th and prior centuries.This shift offers us an opportunity to pen a new chapter in humanity’s annals based on societal rules that are significantly more equitable and inclusive.

As I have shared in other blogs, this accelerated shift in consciousness, awareness, and humanitarian pursuits comes imbued with great responsibility, calling for meaningful, collaborative actions amongst people, regardless of national origin or societal status. At the same time, it is important to remember such progressive actions require accessing a higher frequency of energy to effectively function on all levels of consciousness.

Recent astrology consultations have each highlighted the importance of congruency, developing a stronger inner core, and employing greater self-awareness to navigate these profound cycles. We are moving across virgin ground here. One step at a time, yet full speed ahead too. Potent Aries would not have it any other way. A collective ignition has begun.

Comment section below is available for feedback and insights.

Next blog - my evolving photography.

Coming events this new season: Mercury Retrograde in Taurus - April 21; Solar eclipse at the very end degrees of Aries - April 20; Scorpio lunar eclipse May 5; and Jupiter enters Taurus May 16; Quite a lineup. The education continues.

Sat Nam

Starman, Joseph Mina

Stellenbosch, South Africa

March 20, 2023

The Evolving Astrology of 2023

2023-01-17T04:59:00.008+02:00

" We are souls dressed up in sacred biochemical garments, and our bodies are the instruments through which our souls play their music." Albert Einstein

“As the cells in our bodies are influenced by our earthly weather, our bodies and minds are also influenced by the weather of the cosmos. We are subtly influenced by the physics of our cosmic environment.” Hendrith Smith, Author

Greetings from South Africa.

It has been quite the January around the world. Yet, the month was forecasted to be unpredictable with wild swings of energy thanks in part to the combined retrogrades of Mercury and Mars. And in that respect, it has not disappointed. And it's only mid-month....

Continuing from my previous blog, where I set out the potential influences of this unusual retrograde cycle through the next Equinox, below is both a synopsis of this emerging year and what it offers as possibilities and challenges. For those wanting to dive deeper, you'll find those details too.

This update has taken quite a bit of time to research and construct. I did so because I consider this year a significant tipping point for what's emerging over the next 8 years. How this unfolds is dictated by cosmological events beyond our control or understanding, combined with conscious or unconscious choices we make as individuals, or as part of a collective.

Younger generations know this all too well. See my concluding remarks at the end of this blog for a very timely video called "Wake Up" that was created 11 years ago. It's as relevant today as it was in February 2012, when it was released.

And closer to home: While I continue to offer on-line astrological consultations upon request or referral via Zoom or Skype, moving forward I will not advertise for such. I've stated this a few years ago in a 2015 blog, but slowly forgot this commitment...until I reread the other day some of my earlier blogs while researching the year ahead. And then, once again I remembered. 🤦🏻‍♂️ Nonetheless, I do intend to continue using this blog format in the coming months for my photographic and other artistic creations, plus life insights too. That will include a Voyager Tarot card spread on occasion. And if and when the astrological intensity warrants, I'll briefly weigh-in with my astrological perspective. Powerful times are ahead!

Thanks for coming along on this on-going cosmic ride. Please consider making a donation via PayPal for the time/effort to produce this content. I appreciate your sharing it with others too. Mahalo!

Now to the "Astrological Nuts and Bolts" for 2023:

2023 Vibration by Joseph Mina

A lot to cover here. The following is quite lengthy, as it covers many facets for the coming year. I suggest reading it in parts, i.e those sections pertaining to the personal, social and generational aspects.

Besides an awkward beginning (Mercury/Mars retrogrades), the Astrology of 2023 augurs an expanding change of energy by the coming equinox, and an overall stronger vibrational influence for the remainder of the year. Such will provide forward movement, yet with periods of introspection. Also, strong challenges to the status quo continue for the year, reflecting the tumultuous state of personal, social and political realms worldwide.

Planetary cycles are like flavors of ice cream. Each has its own qualities. Hence, each influences us in unique ways. The specific vibration they impart in the personal, social and generational realms is varied and dependent on a number of factors influenced in part by the overall dynamics of your natal chart, as well as events that affect you and others on social and generational levels.

Depending on the geometry of your natal chart, some cycles will carry added emphasis, where one or more natal aspects are amplified by one or more cycles. These energetic influences are what shape your human experience throughout your life, and define and influence the evolutionary personal, career, relationship and family choices you make.

Some cycles are expansive; others, transformative, integrative, ground-breaking, or quite constrictive. It's quite a mashup of energetic influences that pulsate as wave forms from the heart of our massive galaxy. These energetic waves are transformational across all levels of reality. Their influence affects climate, atmospheric and ocean weather dynamics, physical Earth changes, and in turn the behavior, movements and existence of all living things. A grand cosmic symphony unfolds. Hence, the quotes above.

NASA James Webb Telescope - Galactic field

2023 Synopsis: significant changes, fueling transformation, novelty and reorganization underscore this emerging year. Three notable planetary transits into new signs, plus a sign change in the lunar nodes, frame this ongoing human evolution.

Of particular significance, Pluto, the archetype of transformation, makes its first of three transits into progressive Aquarius from traditional Capricorn on March 23. Pluto's last transit of Aquarius occurred between 1777-1798, which marked the fledgling days of the United States and the social upheaval of the French Revolution. This three-month ingress (between March and June) will be a helpful indicator for what to expect in the coming twenty years in this expansive realm. The rallying cry of Aquarius is "freedom" from tyranny and oppression.

Meanwhile, Saturn, ruling energy of Capricorn, enters watery Pisces on March 7th for the first time since its last entrance in1993-96. Its social counterpart Jupiter, ruler of Sagittarius and co-ruler of Pisces, enters earth-fueled Taurus on May 16 for a twelve-month transit.

Pluto's shift from Capricorn to Aquarius (earth to air element) adds strong emphasis to the emergence of technological marvels, such as space travel, orbital telescopes covering the wide spectrum of light, artificial intelligence (AI), faster computers, and robotics, digital currencies, and stronger social initiatives across the world. Such shifts will transform how we think, communicate, financially exchange, and socially interact in much more dynamic ways than ever envisioned during Pluto's last passage through Aquarius in the 18th century.

A recent image (above) from the James Webb Space Telescope (JWST) revealed thousands of galaxies from unimaginable distances and spans of time. And this focusing on an extremely small part of the sky. This outer space engineering marvel is indicative of the rapidly evolving technological sophistication being created now within a higher frequency energy field. More available energy = more heat = faster shifts = greater collaboration.

The Saturn and Jupiter's change of signs into water (Pisces) and Earth (Taurus) underscores a strong archetypal intention to ground/integrate (Saturn) new and more expansive-type approaches (Jupiter) for realigning and attuning to Earth's rapidly changing energetic and environmental fields.

Four eclipses in 2023 (solar/lunar combination in both May and October) signal a powerful nodal shift from Scorpio/Taurus (April/May) to Aries/Libra in October. This is an archetypal change of the nodes, one that occurs approximately every 18 months. Individual creativity supported through collaboration will mark this nodal migration from July through January 2025.

And lastly, once Uranus stations direct on the 23rd of this month, all major planetary bodies will be moving in direct motion from Earth's perspective until the next Mercury Retrograde on April 21. While such forward-moving alignments are not extremely rare, this collective shift occurring at this point in time is a strong indicator of a noticeable uptick in the overall energy field for the next three months.

If the above synopsis is sufficient, skip to the bottom for questions for reflection and concluding summary. Otherwise....

2023 Details

The Personal Planets: Mercury, Venus, Mars move relatively fast in there orbits around the Sun. These three are the planetary archetypes having their greatest impact on your personal daily events and choices.

Mercury and its well-known Retrogrades

This winged messenger brings our focus to all matters of communication, ideas, the transmission of information, and movement. The planet itself orbits our star every 88 days. And with each rapid orbit, we are able to further define/refine the ebb and flow of Mercury's communicative properties.

In 2023, (including the current retrograde that began at the very end of December), there are four such re-evalution cycles in 2023. The first three are expressed through Earth signs (Capricorn (now), Taurus (April/May) and Virgo (August/September). By year end, the last cycle will start in an Earth sign (Capricorn), and finish in a Fire sign (Sagittarius) in early 2024.

Because communication matters are undergoing a re-evaluation and reorganization, Mercury retrograde periods are not beneficial for finalizing details, such as agreements, legal documents, major purchases. By contrast, it represents a powerful period to (notice the RE) reflect, redo, reassess, replenish, recharge etc.

For this current series, Earth energy is grounded, practical and consolidating. The current financial concerns expressed by many governments and business' world-wide (Capricorn realm) is one indication of this Earth-type energy at work. By contrast, Fire is the elemental fuel of ideas, creativity and sometimes rancorous intensity. And in that respect...

...2024 will be the year of the Fire Mercury retrogrades. Expect communication fireworks, heightened creativity, and unexpected outcomes (fires are unpredictable) during these Mercury periods.

(Station R = the point from Earth's perspective where a planetary body appears to move backward relative to the sky background; Station D = that point in time where the reverse movement ends and direct movement begins)

#1 - Station R - Dec 29, 2022 at 24° Capricorn; station D - Jan 18 at 8° Capricorn

#2 - Station R - April 21 at 15° Taurus; station D - May 15 at 5° Taurus

#3 - Station R - Aug 23 at 21° Virgo; station D - Sept 15 at 8° Virgo**

#4 - Station R - Dec 13 at 8° Capricorn; station D- Jan 2 2024at 22° Sagittarius

Note: #4 station retrograde occurs at the same degree where the current Mercury Retrograde now station's direct. This implies linkage between these two periods, with the latter bringing Sagittarius' quest for the truth and its fire-like nature into the on-going conversation.

**transiting Virgo, one of Mercury's home signs (Gemini being the other) adds extra emphasis to this cycle. As this cycle occurs during the latter stages of the Venus retrograde in Leo (see below), I expect this cycle to be one of the stronger and most introspective Mercury Retrograde cycles of the year.

The following explanation of station retrograde/direct applies specifically to the personal planets here. When a personal planet stations retrograde, or stations direct, the energy around that stationary point intensifies for 4 days before/after. We are currently in that zone for both Mercury and Mars, which continues to month-end.

This intensification is akin to boiling a pot of water in a sealed container. Pressure builds, and sometimes erupts. In the direct phase, it usually takes a couple of weeks (Mercury) and up to 8 weeks (Mars) for the building energy to fully resolve and organize. And it's during the direct phase that productive, externally directed energy becomes available once again, albeit slowly at first.

By contrast, slower orbiting planetary bodies (Jupiter and on out) also station retrograde and direct. However, their pervasive social and generational effects at these stationing points can be both subtle, and ironically more transformative.

Venus

Archetype of the feminine and ruling energy for Libra and Taurus, Venus brings its focus to relationships (Libra) and areas of worth/value, such as beauty/aesthetics, possessions, money, the sensual body, self-worth and self-esteem (Taurus). Venus began the current year close to Pluto and Mercury (in retrograde), which has brought an intense focus into these various Libra/Taurus themes. Do you know where Venus is positioned in your natal chart? Its glyph is on the left here.

Every 584 days, Venus moves in retrograde motion from Earth's perspective shifting from the evening to the morning sky or vice versa. The last Venus retrograde began in late 2021 into 2022 in Capricorn. In retrospect, this cycle was a strong indicator of economic stresses in the coming year.

The next Venus retrograde, this July, will be in the sign of Leo. This brings your inner focus to the realms of leadership, fun, creativity, children, romance, passion and pleasure. Leo types include celebrities, leaders in entertainment, tech, and nations, and also royalty.

[Note: for anyone contemplating marriage, take note of the retrograde dates below. This, as well as Mercury Retrograde, are NOT beneficial period to formally deepen a relationship, such as becoming engaged or deciding to marry].

Venus Star Pentagram

This retrograde cycle is a time for the realignment and reorganization of the inner feminine in the areas mentioned above. It's perfect timing for attending a spiritual retreat, instructional or growth seminar, learning a new creative craft or further perfecting it.

As the middle sign of the season, Leo is considered one of the four fixed signs: Taurus, Scorpio, Aquarius are the others. If you have strong fixed sign placements in your natal chart between 12° and 29° Leo, then this retrograde phase will take on added/heightened significance for you.

Any 29° placement, either natal or transit, represents the most comprehensive and intense expression of a particular sign. The start of this retrograde at 29° will prove to be quite a powerful time for further aligning your daily flow with the passion/desires of your heart. Look for a lot of flux and unexpected changes in the aforementioned Leo realms this coming July/August, especially due to three exact square angles between Venus and out of the blue Uranus in Taurus. Sudden romances either beginning or ending would be one indicator of these three interactions at play.

Powerful questions during this Venus cycle:

What lights me up in my passionate pursuits?

What changes do I need to make to further enhance my passions for life?

How can I share my passionate gifts/talents with others?

July 23 - Stations retrograde at 29° Leo.

Sept 4 - Stations direct at 12° Leo

The three-week period before and after the above dates will be the build-up and unwinding, respectively, of this cycle's most intense phase.

Mars

Archetype of the inner masculine, and ruler of Scorpio and Aries, Mars brings its heightened focus to the qualities of achievement, action, desire, and competition. In its planetary movement, Mars moves into retrograde every 2-1/2 years or so.

We begin the year with Mars in retrograde in unpredictable, spontaneous Gemini, and in square to a heightened Neptune in Pisces. This combo epitomizes the heightened polarity and surge of misinformation evident around the globe (recent US political mayhem in the US House of Representatives, or the storming of Brazil's Governmental buildings under the belief the Presidential election was stolen from its now former President (sound familiar?), are two of many examples spawned by this Mars vibration since it began this retrograde cycle this past October.

Presently, Mars now stations direct at 8° Gemini. This is a few days before Mercury's station retrograde at 8° Capricorn on the 18th. The angular association between these two archetypes (called a quincunx - a paradoxical combination of otherwise incompatible elements that somehow works), will continue in lockstep through the end of the January. Given the unpredictable Gemini energy here (Mercury rules Gemini), all I can say is "expect nothing; be prepared for anything".

The next Mars retrograde takes place in late December 2024 in the signs of Leo (station retrograde) and Cancer (station direct).

The Social Planets

Jupiter & Saturn Glyphs

Next orbits out are Jupiter and Saturn. The archetypal qualities, associated with these massive worlds influence your interactions with others, especially in your social and group engagements.

Jupiter, ruler of Sagittarius and original ruler of Pisces, brings its optimistic and expansive energy to any social encounter. By contrast, Saturn, ruler of Capricorn and original ruler of Aquarius, brings a sense of discipline, responsibility, limitations, and down-to-earth actions. This contrast is akin to a new relationship. At first, it's all Jupiter with "bells and whistles". Pure excitement/euphoria. However, once the feel good hormones dissipate in the ensuing months, Saturn takes over. This is where the responsible and much less passionate inner work begins.

As mentioned in the synopsis, three major sign changes occur this year. Jupiter and Saturn make up two of the three vibrational shifts into a new astrological sign signaling noticeable behavioral/structural shifts across world cultures.

Jupiter

This archetype's expansive, optimistic, and success-oriented vibration is quite uplifting. It's the engine of good fortune. In its shadow, Jupiter fuels excessiveness and ungrounded optimism. In transit, Jupiter spends about 12 months total in any specific sign. Hence, you will experience your Jupiter return to your natal Jupiter every 12 years. As now, 1999-2000 and 2011-12 were the last two times Jupiter transited from Aries into Taurus.

Last May, Jupiter entered Aries instilling a sense of impatience and eagerness to start something new. By early October, Jupiter migrated back into very watery Pisces until late December. Many water events filled the news. The recent blockbuster hit Avatar: The Way of Water, made its debut during the latter stages of Jupiter's short return to Pisces. Also, floods and droughts around the world took on a heightened energy as Earth changes intensified (remember, Jupiter expands).

In 2023, Jupiter will complete its Aries transit by May 16th, when it enters the grounded, sensual sign of Taurus. In Taurus, Jupiter amplifies Taurus qualities through dedication, perseverance and being practical. During this 2023-24 transit, Jupiter will create a 60° sextile angle with Saturn in Pisces in mid-June. In astrology, a sextile represents an easier and more available energy for productive exchanges. Here, Saturn in more compassionate Pisces will throttle (temporarily) Jupiter's Taurus-filled optimism. Perhaps this will allow for a more meaningful, productive and substantive work to be undertaken in matters affecting environmental issues (Taurus), and mental health concerns (Sagittarius/Taurus). Also, this particular June period is an excellent time to nurture your body via bodywork, massage, etc.

Saturn

The planet Saturn is known for its massive rings. Symbolically, this represents a sense of honoring and knowing one's boundaries and limitations. It's the container/cauldron within which you experience life.

On March 7th, Saturn enters the empathic, watery realm of Pisces. Last time Saturn transited this sign was 1993-96. In the sign of the fishes, Saturn brings a more sobering/grounding energy into this otherwise very fluid, nebulous and changeable vibration. In this latest rendition, Saturn will transit Pisces between 2023 and February 2026, with a brief and powerful Aries entrance with Neptune in 2025. The last time Saturn and Neptune both were both transiting Pisces was 1523-25. That's 500 years ago! The energetic background of fire/Aries implies something grounded, spiritual and novel wants to begin a new phase of purposeful inspiration and conviction within the human mythos.

Saturn Return: Of the varied planetary cycles,"Saturn Return" is one of the more recognized, and ironically, perhaps one of the least understood transits. Saturn's orbital period covers 29.4 year. Archetypically, this Saturnian period is divided into 4 segments, each serving as a meaningful benchmark for how much a person has matured since the last checkup seven years earlier. When Saturn returns to its natal position, that marks the end of the cycle and the beginning of a new one. Maturity and lessons learned are the measurement of any Saturn Return period. Also, a new mandate emerges for the coming 29.4 years.

The first Saturn Return (SR) at around age 29/30 is a time to mature into full adulthood. The second SR poses the question "What do I want to do with the rest of my life?". While the third much later in life not only offers a period of reflection about what has been accomplished, but creates a resolve to be of greater service to others.

Whose affected? Just completing, or starting to experience a Saturn Return this year: completed - those born in 1993 (1st SR); 1963/early 1964 (2nd SR); and 1934 (3rd SR). For those born in 1994, 1964, and 1935, your Saturn Return year now unfolds in 2023. Re-evaluation and restructuring are important considerations in any Saturn cycle. Experiencing some degree of limitation is also a tension builder for effecting change.

Stations retrograde at 7°Pisces on June 17

Stations direct at 0° Pisces on Nov 4

In addition to those under the Saturn Return spotlight, anyone with natal placements between 0° and 7° in Gemini, Virgo, or Sagittarius will also have a Saturn-type year. If that includes a Saturn Return, a major reorganizational year lies ahead for you. Otherwise, the year will be one of taking stock relative to the natal planetary energy being aspected and further defined by its natal house placement.

The Outer Planetary Influences - Uranus, Neptune, Pluto, Chiron and Ceres

Uranus, Pluto, Neptune glyphs

These outliers dwell in a realm beyond naked-eye visibility. Their movement along the zodiac, compared to the inner planets, is tortoise-like slow. From a generational perspective, each of these outer archetype provides a specific fuel for one's transformation and awakening.

Uranus associated with revolution, radical change, independence and freedom is the unpredictable one of the lot. Its vibration is electric (think of lightning: sudden and fast). Its shadow points to rebellion, disruption, chaos etc. Currently in Taurus, this 7-year transit that began in 2018 is altering the way we energetically attune to the Earth's vibration, and initiate progressive environmental changes. Also, its influence now spawns a new perspective and associated behavior in the use of money, possessions, and how you value yourself.

Uranian gifts come and go quickly. Rarely do they last. Yet, their impact is long remembered.

On the personal level, the fixed signs of Taurus, Leo, Scorpio, and Aquarius between 14° and 25° will be under the Uranian spotlight. This will specifically influence those with natal Uranus in Scorpio born between December 1977 and October 1979, who will now complete their Uranus opposition, Those born between November 1979 and September 1980 will begin their Uranus opposition (completed in 2024). Uranus opposition is a major turning point in life; choosing a new path/direction due to an unforeseen, "out of the blue" event. For me, I made a significant career change during my Uranus opposition in the early 1980's.

Stations Direct - Jan 23 - 15° Taurus

Stations Retrograde - August 29 - 23° Taurus

Neptune, as ruler of Pisces, this watery influence is strongly associated with spirituality, compassion, dreams, imagery, and lofty ideals. In its shadow, and in varying degrees based on the overall dynamics of one's natal chart, effects such as delusion, escape, addiction, mental health, viruses (the unseen) and vagueness can prove challenging at times. This shadow element has been particularly strong since 2011, when Neptune entered its home sign for the first time in 150 or so years.

Because Neptune orbits the Sun much slower than any of the closer planets, only up to two generational Neptune cycles will occur in your life: Neptune Square (age 41) and opposition (age 82). The square is a time of reimagining your life; seeing it from a fresh perspective now that your thirties are behind you. The opposition, many years later, is a time for stimulating a deeper spiritual and functional change. Many senior citizens relocate under this transit. Also, a stronger desire can suddenly arise from within you to be of greater service to others.

Those born in 1981-83 (square to Sagittarius) and 1939-42 (opposition to Virgo) will experience these Neptune cycles in 2023. The earliest year in each range will be completing their Neptune cycle, while the latest year will be beginning their 3-year mystical sojourn.

Neptune cycles can be highly inspirational, imaginative and soul satisfying. An amplification of one's empathic and/or psychic abilities represents one of its potential gifts. However, this Neptunian influence can prove to be quite challenging in very subtle ways. A persistent feeling of uncertainty, uneasiness, or exhibiting scattered thinking, or wanting to be alone out of fear, are some of the challenges to our logical way of thinking and our rationale for security and safety.

Neptune's now transiting the highest degrees of Pisces (25 to 28°). This archetypal passage will further amplify these expansive/constrictive possibilities until Neptune enters Aries in later 2025/ very early 2026.

For example, my recent transit of Neptune across my Mercury in 2015-17 (conjunction), opposite Saturn in 2016-18, and Sun in 2020-22 (conjunction), left me at times with a strong degree of uncertainty about direction, purpose etc. It was like being in a rowboat in the middle of a lake surrounded by fog. Whenever I energetically looked ahead all I saw was a blank. And until I understood there was profound meaning in this empty perspective, I experienced frustration about seemingly not being able to anticipate what was unfolding around me. In retrospect, "a blank" about the year ahead in 2020 was an especially poignant observation I had prior to the pandemic crisis. Given the immense changes rapidly unfolding around the world in 2020, that blank feedback was quite prescient about the days ahead. Hence, I learned Neptune insights usually come in veiled, or not so obvious ways.

This past year, during the most potent phase of my Pisces Sun being aspected by Neptune, I felt clear on occasion. I also experienced a deeper sense of trust in my sentient and psychic abilities. However, this energy quickly oscillated at unexpected times, creating periods where I found it difficult to make a choice, act decisively, stay focused, or even create some type of plan to follow.

And like a pendulum, this clear/vague experience is common in a Neptune cycle. It was once described to me as walking around with an empty glass, letting the Universe fill or empty it as it deemed fit. Pure trust, leading to a more soulful appreciation of life and its myriad of expressions, is a major ally of a Neptune cycle.

And in that vein, Neptune cycle always bring these spiritual and compassionate gifts, especially through mammals, birds, and sea life. In 2021, one of a number of magical, natural world connections I experienced involved two mystical water interactions with approximately one-hundred spinner dolphins. In part, this would point to Neptune's hand in the script. That would include a high frequency download from the dolphin pod's sonar emissions. Quite a moment of grace and ecstasy. And inspiration too. Checked all the Neptune watery boxes.

Stations Retrograde - June 30 - 28°Pisces

Stations Direct - Dec 6 - 25° Pisces

Pluto

Phoenix Rises!

This is one potent archetype. While Neptune, rather quietly, augurs the dissolving of reality as you once knew it, this mighty archetype dismantles/melts down reality. Think "big, gigantic etc" when you imagine Pluto's influence.

Pluto, co-ruler of Scorpio (Mars is the other), brings renewal and rebirth after a dark passage. Its archetype is associated with the underworld. In 2023, anyone between 41 and 43 years old will experience transiting Pluto in square to their natal Pluto. This is a powerful and quite challenging generational experience. It evokes significant change. Certain aspects of one's life falls apart (relationship or job endings are possibilities), but renewal follows.

Pluto is pure alchemy. The insect larva entering a cocoon, then emerging as a butterfly is a classic example of a Pluto transit.

** Pluto follows a highly eccentric orbit. Back in the 1980's as Pluto reached perigee to the Sun, it transited Scorpio over a period of just 12 years. That's Pluto's fastest transit of a sign. Currently, Pluto's coming Aquarius transit will cover 20 years. This year-span by sign will continue increasing until Pluto reaches its Taurus apogee in 2095. There it will take 31 years to transit the sign of the Bull. Depending on which astrological sign Pluto transited at your birth, the Pluto square can be experienced between 36 and 61 years old!

Also, in 2023, anyone between 88 and 91 will experience transiting Pluto opposite natal Pluto. This is a profound transit that is transformational and reflective about one's life, plus an important time of preparation for your remaining years.

Currently, Pluto now nears the end of Capricorn. This coming March (23rd) for the first time in 225 years, Pluto will once again transit the progressive sign of Aquarius. The last time Pluto was at this 0° was Jan 1778. Then, a fledgling United States was attempting to find its way. George Washington, the country's 1st President spent a harsh winter at Valley Forge with his troops in late 1777 into 1778. His young country was at war with England. Meanwhile across the Atlantic, France acknowledged and defended this new upstart. 12 years later the French Revolution significantly changed France. Pluto's Aquarian journey mirrored to the world the Plutonian archetypal social upheaval for the times.

Fast forward to 2023, Pluto's first Aquarius ingress will be for just 80 days (March 23 - June 11) and remain at the 0° mark before returning to Capricorn’s late degrees on June 11. This is the exact degree where Jupiter and Saturn positioned at the 2020 December solstice. Placements at the 0 or 29° of a sign, amplify all expressions of that sign. So expect a noticeable start to this epic change in sign and related elements (Earth to Air).

Further, this short 80-day period will create context for what to expect from Pluto's 20 year transit in Aquarius. Children born during this transit will have a heightened desire to associate with others at a group level. Technology and the cosmos will excite and influence their social choices and engagements. And social justice/equality initiatives will be their fuel and power.

Pluto-cycle transitional years have proven to be quite intense, but transformative too. At a minimum, shifting from a Capricorn to Aquarian vibration will signal a realignment and a new designed empowerment of social, governmental and corporate power structures around the world. Already there's evidence of such by protests in France, Peru, and a number of other countries.

This transformative Plutonian transit will also evoke a more progressive approach toward societal challenges around the globe, which would include addressing and finding resolution for issues such as homelessness, forced migrations and human trafficking.

The shadow element here is equally daunting, and one requiring heightened awareness. Its extreme shadow includes efforts to effect dark governmental control (dystopia) over the masses. Books/movies such as The Hunger Games and The Handmaid's Tale are two of many media examples of a potential future; Aldous Huxley's literary work Brave New World, is another.

Enters Aquarius - March 23

Stations Retrograde - May 1 - 00° Aquarius (this will further amplify Mercury's retrograde of Taurus)

Reenters Capricorn - June 12

Stations Direct - Oct 11 - 28° Capricorn

Pluto will reenter Aquarius on Jan 24, 2024 for 8 months, with one last Capricorn transit (the culmination of Pluto's Capricorn transit since 2008) for approximately 2 months (Oct/Nov, including the US national elections), before returning to Aquarius, where it remains for the next 20 years. Significant societal issues, changes, and technological advancements or controls are in the offing during this two-decade Aquarian sojourn.

Ceres/Chiron glyphs

Ceres and Chiron - Astrology is a varied field. Layers upon layers of specialized interest cover a wide spectrum of archetypes and mythological associations. One can delve quite deeply into the psyche through these mystical representations, and their associated inter-relationships. A part of this varied mix are two groupings called Asteroids/Minor Planets. These smaller-than-planet-size members further define the human experience. I've chosen these particular two for this 2023 review.

Ceres is associated with self-nurturing. In manners of health, it is associated with Virgo.

Ceres was the first of many asteroids discovered. The year was 1801. Its orbital period covers approximately 4.6 years. In your birth chart the sign placement will provide clues how to self-nurture. When aspected by a transiting planet, this quest will take on added significance. At the beginning of the year, Ceres positioned at 3°Libra. By year end, Ceres will have migrated to the middle degrees of Sagittarius.

Chiron is the better known of these two. As the mythological "wounded healer", this archetype symbolizes the healing path you experience your life. Its 50-year orbit around the Sun is quite eccentric too, At its closest distance to the Sun (fastest passage through a sign - Virgo/Libra), Chiron's orbit is actually inside of Saturn's. And at its farthest distance (slowest passage through a sign - Pisces/Aries), its orbit is much closer to Uranus. So in one sense, Chiron would represent the energetic healing bridge linking more conservative/predictable Saturn and much more progressive and unpredictable Uranus.

Chiron, now at its farthest orbital location in Pisces/Aries, is slowly transiting Aries over a period of 8 years. It begins the year at 12°. By station retrograde on July 23 it will have moved to 20°. And by year-end (Dec 27), Chiron will station direct at 15°. Since Chiron is closer to Uranus' orbit, this healing cycle will have stronger Uranian influence. That implies quick changes, even unexpected health concerns. Cardinal signs affected in addition to Aries include Cancer, Libra and Capricorn. Natal placements relative to transiting Chiron would be particularly influenced here in matters of health and healing.

Chiron Return: Around age 50, a year, and even up to two year are spent addressing core health issues from energetic wounds of the past, especially within your family. This year, those born in 1972-74 will have Chiron-return years, with the earlier year completing the cycle while the more recent year just beginning it. Sometimes, a healing crisis ensues during this transit. Seeing a counselor, therapist, bodyworker are common strategies during this healing cycle.

Lunar nodes, Eclipses and Super Moons

Nodes and Eclipses

The Moon's orbit is slightly askew to the Earth's orbit (by 5 degrees). Hence, as the Moon revolves around the Earth, there are only 2 points where the two orbits match up each monthly cycle. These are imaginary nodal points.

The North Nodal point sign (NN) is considered part of your life lesson, or an opening gateway. By contrast, the South Nodal point (SN) is energetic ground that seems quite familiar, like an echo from the past. It is considered a closing gateway. My NN is in Aries, which is the individuated walk. Where's your north node placed? How does it fuel or challenge you?

As mentioned in the synopsis above, a change in the lunar nodes from Taurus/Scorpio to Aries/Libra occurs come July 17. The karmic winds are shifting once again. Nodal changes occur every 18 months. The shift from Taurus (a focus on all Taurus qualities) to Aries (a much faster vibration) will be a significant part of the overall energetic themes for 2023 and 2024. Aries' qualities of individuation, fast, impulsive, and novelty will define this period. By contrast, the Libra SN will point to a significant shift in 1:1 relationships across cultures, including diplomatic alliances.

Under the Taurus/Scorpio nodes, the shadow element of large-scale war has been prominent. Currently the war in the Ukraine, started under this node combination, now commands world attention. 19 years ago, the Iraq war was unfolding during the same nodal placements.

By contrast, the shadow element of Aries/Libra points to dictatorships and significant changes in alliances. The post-Iraq war period changed many relationships between countries. The same holds true today as the global community deals with the adverse economic and social ramifications of Russia's actions.

When either node lines up with the New or Full Moon, a solar or lunar eclipse occurs, respectively. And this alignment usually comes in pairs, although 3-eclipses, each two-weeks apart are not that uncommon. The closer the node degree to the New or Full Moon, the more dramatic the eclipse cycle.

This year two eclipses come April/May (annular/total Solar/penumbral Lunar) will occur along the Scorpio/Taurus axis. The second pairing comes in October under Aries/Libra (annular solar/partial lunar).

Eclipses invoke the shadow element of our psyche. A time to look introspectively at the coming six months and what it offers relative to one's on-going transits to their natal chart. Eclipse timings relative to your location can be found here.

Super New Moons

In addition to nodes, a rather recent focus has been those occasions where the New or Full Moon occurs within 24 hours of the Moon reaching perigee in its Earth orbit. Symbolically and energetically, a closer Moon magnifies its gravitational influence on Earth's fluids, including the physical body. Super New and Full Moons this year occur:

Super New Moon:

January 21 - 2° Aquarius (closest)

Feb 20 - 1° Pisces

Super Full Moon:

Aug 1 - 1° Leo

Aug 30/31 - 7° Pisces (closest)

One more thing

The coming Super New Moon in Aquarius on January 21/22nd positions essentially at the same degree as Pluto's Aquarius entrance in March. The New Moon chart contains strong Aquarius influence (Sun/Moon/Venus/Saturn) This line up will amplify existing challenges and initiatives in the realm of social interconnections, technological developments, and progressive initiatives and challenges during this coming 28-day lunar cycle. This activity will highlight those areas ripe for transformation during Pluto's coming transit of this higher-vibrational realm through 2043.

Reflection Suggestions for 2023

In what areas of my life do I see opportunity and challenge this year?

What am I ready to let go of that no longer serves me?

How can I better strengthen my body, and nurture my soul in the coming days?

How can I participate with others to support a more inclusive reality?

Conclusion: Preparing this update during Mars and Mercury retrogrades has been a poignant reminder about surrender, breathing, and allowing. My Capricorn Moon wanted to see the article completed as efficiently as possible, and no later than January 8th. "Not so fast" replied the Universe. Guess who won out? 😉

As I reflect upon the past eleven years, I marvel at the rapid, on-going evolutionary shifts occurring in culture's around the Earth. Within this sea change, the heightened polarity continues to build tension throughout the consciousness, inspiring younger generations to courageously step forward much earlier in their developmental years to make a noticeable difference in actions, behaviors and social mores. At the beginning of this blog, I mentioned the video "Wake Up", which was first released in February, 2012. This was the exact day Neptune entered Pisces, while leaving Aquarius for the last time until the year 2161. Have a look....

Quite telling how environmental and societal concerns expressed 11 years ago have become much more amplified in 2023. Meanwhile one billion more people inhabit the Earth since that video was released. Have we reached a critical tipping point?

Regardless, another strong and more powerful wave of the younger generations are now entering their teen and adult years to further bolster the generations ahead of them. Will it make a difference? I say yes. Never underestimate the power of the human collective to effect meaningful change, especially in times of crisis. The Aquarian age is now upon us. Pluto's Aquarian transit through 2043 will redefine life in ways that simply cannot be foreseen from 2023.

And as I have shared quite a few times here over the past eleven years, this remarkable time in which we live, despite its many challenges, is the very foundation upon which future generations will remember those of our time, both young and old, who made a meaningful difference in our human quest to create heaven on Earth.

May the year 2023 unfold in alignment with your highest purpose for being on the Earth NOW!

Next update: My photographic creations from 2022.

Please share your comments below. We all learn from each other's perspective.

Sat Nam

Starman, Joseph Mina

Stellenbosch, South Africa

January 17, 2023

Solstice December 2022: Transitioning from 2022 to 2023

2022-12-20T13:54:00.188+02:00

"And one has to understand that braveness is not the absence of fear, but rather the strength to keep on going forward despite the fear." Paulo Coelho, Author (1947 - )

"History doesn't repeat itself, but it often rhymes." Mark Twain

Greetings from the Western Cape of South Africa

Before starting this blog, I had a read of my last two entries here (Dec 2021 and April 2022). I know, it's been awhile. Blame my Aries North Node. 😉

Last December, then again in April, I wrote 2022 would be an intense year, literally building on the very intensity spawned in late 2019 through 2021. Intensity always implies growth, increased heat, and unforeseen challenges. Without tension, nothing grows; nothing evolves. The next three years will add to this intense period, as Pluto and Neptune move through the final degrees of Capricorn and Pisces, respectively. How that energetically unfolds depends on how humanity responds. Surprises abound in this Universe.

More immediate focus here is the coming Solstice followed 2 days later by the Capricorn New Moon. Ready to dive in?

At the Sun standstill (Solstice), in this case the Sun's most southern point along the horizon, the Sun rises and sets around the same time for 3 days. In an "as above, so below" sense, it's a time to standstill, i.e. reevaluate, renew, and as needed, redirect your creative and/or organizational pursuits for the next steps on your life journey in this coming new season.

And with every change of season, the natal chart for that changeover becomes a helpful guide for navigating what is now a fast moving energy field. In that respect, Gemini, the sign of the playful trickster and spontaneous shifts, will add more unpredictable mojo to this period.
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Life Path Astrology Consultations: As 2023 rapidly nears, deepen your understanding of your natal birth chart along with a look ahead to 2023 and how to best navigate the planetary cycles of the coming year. I am available on a limited basis for private one-to-one consultation sessions via Skype or Zoom (audio recorded). Gift certificates for family and friends are available too!

Great changes present life changing opportunities. My personal astrological counseling session helps you create meaningful strategies for adapting and shifting with the current powerful planetary cycles. Schedule TODAY your appointment!

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Helderberg Mountain Gold by Joseph Mina

Here's the big picture:

Second Solstice of 2022 arrives UT 21:48 on December 21 (Hawaii 11:48 HST, 13:48 PST) east to South Africa/mid/western Europe 23:48 SAST), and on the 22nd from Moscow east to International Date Line.

Capricorn New Moon positions at 2° Capricorn on the 23rd, just 2 days after the Solstice, just 16 minutes past the midnight hour in Hawaii. Then on the US East Coast EST 05:16; W Europe 12:16; UT 10:16.

In the interlude between these two events, early on the 23rd, the Moon transits across the Galactic Center in late degrees of Sagittarius. This is one way the Universe reminds us through the sky story to employ Sagittarius ideals of courage, determination, and integrity in the coming season as it applies to Capricorn themes of rules, politics, law, business and economic matters.

At this Solstice/New Moon you are reminded in this time of great upheaval and shift:

- "you are not alone".

- there is a "Universal method to this apparent madness" flowing in your and others lives. Yes, we are all affected by the significant changes on Earth, whether we are aware of these changes or not.

- "power in numbers" remains a viable transformative tool for challenging established paradigms of outdated beliefs and social mores (eg young women protests in highly secular Iran).

And here are other details for the Solstice and New Moon:

The New Moon square to Jupiter in Aries and Ceres in Libra (ever-expansive Jupiter reentered the sign of the Ram on December 20th after a short return to Pisces; Ceres entered Libra December 7th).

This angular combination at the very beginning of these cardinal signs, referred to as a T-square, implies novelty, i.e. surprises. It also encourages using discretion and due diligence as important tools in the coming months. Jupiter in Aries left to itself is quite rambunctious and uncontrollable.The massive reorganization now taking place in the Crypto Markets due to the collapse of one of its major trading hubs is one example of Aries enthusiasm being ultimately affected by a retrograde Mars in Gemini, and subsequently reined by Capricorn diligence.

By contrast, Ceres at the very beginning degree of Libra, the planetary archetype of nurturing behaviors towards self and others, gives added emphasis toward developing or strengthening connections in your life. That uptick in energy will prove empowering as long as it comes from a nurturing place. The key here is focusing on what brings life to your relationships, while being in alignment with your direction and purpose. Equally, perfect timing for reflecting whether certain relationships continue to feel nurturing to you. Last time Ceres transited Libra was in 2018.

Mars Retrograde

Mars Retrograde: Back in late August, Mars first transited into the sign of Gemini. Approximately every 2-1/2 years, Earth moves in between the Sun and Mars. That positioning is referred to as a Mars opposition. As seen in the image to the right, whenever Mars moves into opposition from speedier Earth's perspective, it appears to be moving backwards against the sky background. That effect, in an "as above, so below" context, denotes a retrograde period.

It is at opposition that Mars rises and sets opposite to the Sun.

Mars, as the ruling energy of both Aries (modern) and Scorpio (ancient - i.e. before the discovery of Uranus, Neptune and Pluto) is bold, quick to anger, loves to play, has a short attention span at times, triggers deeper desires of passion and achievement, and likes to move on a spur-of-the-moments notice. When Mars turns retrograde, this active Aries/Scorpio mojo becomes much more internal, introspective and intense. Also, deadlines, engagements, work assignments, creative endeavors become fodder for changeable events.

chart design by Joseph Mina

To better understand how this significant cycle plays against the background of your natal chart, note the astrological house where Mars transits in your chart. That's step one, For me, that would be the 10th house of career and the 11th house of groups and associations, one of my strongest interests. In step two, note where the signs of Scorpio ♏️ and Aries ♈️ appear at the opening degree of two specific houses. For me that's the 4th house of my private life, home, family and community, and the 9th house of travel, higher education, higher mind, philosophy and a spiritual quest. Such placements have mirrored my internal processes and external efforts, as I continue to reorganize from significant changes in my career approach since late 2019. More on that later.

In the sign of Gemini, the above chart analysis applies to matters of communication, networking, spontaneity (changeable), acting, music and a mix of sorrow and humor. As Gemini is a mutable (changeable) sign, which also includes Virgo/Sagittarius/Pisces, anyone with significant mutable placements in their natal chart will feel this Mars/Gemini vibration even more strongly than others.

When Mars approaches its opposition with the Sun, it remains in the same sign, or sometimes tracks between 2 signs for around 7 months!. That's a long time to be in an energy pattern, especially in this case: unpredictable-like Gemini. And to make it even more unpredictable, this Mars retrograde back on October 30th commenced by creating a square with nebulous Neptune in its home sign of Pisces. That combination has spawned an increase in misinformation during the retrograde cycle, as well as darker secrets being revealed in unpredictable ways. The sudden collapse of the crypto exchange FXT, where billions of investor funds vanished, is one example of a Gemini Mars and Pisces Neptune working in combination (eg bursting the delusional bubble).

Other recent examples include Elon Musk's Twitter purchase having a significant negative impact on the shares of his Tesla electric car company; England's Prime Minister Liz Truss lasting in office for just 44 days due to economic upheaval triggered by her economic policies; massive social protests in the unlikeliest of places (China, Iran, and Russia); unexpected USA midterm election results and drawn-out vote tabulation; and Peru's President being quickly ousted from office, then arrested for attempting to ignore the Constitution. These are just a few of the many examples appearing recently in the news. Quick, unexpected changes and reversals are the common thread here.

Mars will end its retrograde movement on January 12th when it stations direct at 8° Gemini. The entire retrograde cycle will come to a close on March 16th. As lessons from this cycle are reviewed in the direct motion period, I suspect more political and economic upheaval around the world will mark the headlines into March. There's simply a lot of angst in the ethers, and its being vented in many ways.

And finally…

...Mercury Retrograde is upon us. This cycle began on December 12th, when Mercury passed its station direct point at 8° Capricorn. Between the 12th and 29th, Mercury builds a tension pattern (finding communication challenging these days?) to bring the conversation to all things Capricorn (rules, politics, business, organizational matters, efficiency and even high achievement tendencies). As Mercury rules Gemini, this Capricorn reset/review brings Mars and its ongoing Gemini/Pisces themes into the conversation. The overall effect is to amplify both of these cycles. Confusion and reversals may prove to be the dominant January themes. Also, unexpected opportunity will be there too as you discover a new sense of inner power that rises from a place of internal grace, rather than stress.

This Mercury Retrograde begins in trusty Capricorn with a conjunction to Venus and Pluto lurking nearby. Back at the end of 2021, a similar setup of these very same planetary actors occurred toward the end of the year to herald the Venus Retrograde. That retrograde brought heightened focus to values, money, possessions and self-esteem, which proved to be significant themes in 2022. Venus in Capricorn is energetically akin to the Queen Bee. The hive is her domain. This Mercury Retrograde will focus on how you communicate your values, self-worth, money, and possessions (Venus themes) from an empowered place (Pluto). See below for suggested themes for reflection.

Mercury turns direct on January 18th at 8° Capricorn, and at the same degree marker as Mars in Gemini, which turned direct 6 days earlier. So essentially, both planets are going to move forward (that's progress) in an odd tandem connection (quincunx) until the end of January. By then, Mercury's greater speed starts to create separation from Mars. Quite a unique combination, especially as this dynamic serves as a strong indicator at the Solstice for what to expect in the energetic flow for at least the first month of the new season. Again, focus on communications in the context of unpredictable shifts and changes of fortune occurring in your life.

On my next blog (sometime in January), I'll present the various cycles of 2023, including Pluto's first ingress into Aquarius in over 250 years!, a significant nodal change from Taurus/Scorpio to Aries/Libra, a late July Venus Leo retrograde, Saturn's entrance into Pisces (last time was in 1993-95), four solar/lunar eclipses, and Jupiter's entry into Taurus (last passage was late 2011-2012). Powerful year of transition ahead.

Looking a little further ahead, from indicators marking the planetary movements in the solar system relative to Earth's perspective, the next three years will be profound: empowerment, Earth changes, financial freedom, and social justice and equality will be on the front burner around the globe. This is especially true while Pluto and Neptune cover the final degrees of Capricorn (through early 2025) and Pisces (through 2026), respectively. A transit or natal placement in the late degrees of a sign gives added significance to the archetypal themes of that sign. What makes this energetic ground so transformative and intense is the energetic shift beginning in August 2025 in elemental energy. I'll save that part for the next update.

For now, here are suggestions for the coming Solstice:

-What do I want to expansively create and manifest in the coming season? (Jupiter/Aries)
-How effectively do I communicate what I value? (Mercury retrograde)
-What changes can I now employ to strengthen my ability to manifest (Mars/Gemini)
-How do I envision being of meaningful service to others in 2023 (Saturn/Aquarius)
-What structural parts of my life am I ready to end in the coming season? (Pluto/Capricorn)
-How can I add more value to my career aspirations? (Venus/Capricorn)
-What steps am I ready to take to deepen my connection to my soul path? (Neptune/Pisces)
-What is required on my part now to strengthen myself for a new season? (Uranus/Taurus)

Conclusion: The significant increase in polarity during 2022 points to an increase in tension for 2023. On a personal level, I sure have felt it. Since late 2019, a building and sometimes brooding, sometimes depressing, and even ecstatic vibration has filled my being.

I have had amazing interactions with the wild spinner dolphins while visiting Hawaii, have stood under jaw-dropping star-filled night skies in South Africa's Cederberg and Karoo mountain valleys while bathed in starlight, and have taken my photography interest to another level. Yet, simply attempting to write at times about the planetary transits has proven quite intensely activating and challenging. Last year for an entire week, every planetary position in my natal chart was aspected by one or more planetary transit. Others I speak with share similar tales of intensity, confusion, creativity, new beginnings and chaos flowing through their lives. With an Aries North Node that likes to move, having to surrender at times to a stronger flow has been humbling, yet strengthening too. I feel like the horse ready to run a race. With the north lunar node shifting into Aries next July, I sense a lot of forward momentum in the offing for many, especially those with strong placements in Cardinal Signs (Aries/Cancer/Libra/Capricorn. Last time the North Node moved through Aries was 2004-06.

Despite this planetary assault by all the outer planets in my natal chart (my interpretation 🤣), I have witnessed my intuitive and sentient abilities expanding (Rudolf Steiner refers to this emergence as the activation of one's super sensibilities), I have become even more discerning about my choices, and significant changes have occurred in my approach to bodywork (more efficient and expansive, while focusing more so on the frequency at which various forms of life vibrate and how it's exponentially increasing. Feels like an inner rewiring has been taking place.

Back at the September Equinox, I wrote a three-part article on 21st Century Frequency. You can read it here: Part I - Part II - Part III.

And in the realm of frequency, the Sun is now waking from its Solar Minimum state. Increased sunspots and solar activity are strong signs of our day star building towards its expected 2025 Solar Maximum. Of late I have been watching Suspicious Observer's YouTube channel. Short, informative daily updates are provided about the current solar activity along with information about vibrational shifts from beyond the solar system influencing weather patterns, ocean currents, plus a lot more. Have a look.

Lastly, no matter one's lot in life, an extraordinary vibrational shift is now underway affecting all aspects of life on planet Earth. What this energetic sea change looks like on the other side continues to remain speculative. Shining and expanding your unique light, sharing your talents, being of compassionate service, and creating synergy with others represents a powerful life strategy for navigating these highly changeable times.

Once again, the saying "we are the answer to our prayers" comes to mind. We are here to serve a higher purpose in humanity's evolution. Old ways and rigid traditions are falling apart. A new world awaits that functions quite differently than the one to which we are accustomed. I see the period of 2019-2032 as significant bridge years, opening new doors of opportunity and grace for us and future generations. Crossing that bridge with awareness, purpose and determination requires courage and a resolve to participate in this paradigm shift.

And for those in northern climes, stay warm. Six months from now I'll be preparing for the winter here (much like San Diego's sunny and stormy cool days). It's such an inward time in many ways.

The weather here in the Western Cape of South Africa is almost at its summer peak. I love the early mornings, late afternoons and amazing sunsets this time of the year. Yet, the temperature range so far has been cooler than usual. We even had a winter like storm (in terms of its intensity) last weekend, that caused quite a bit of flooding in vulnerable areas in South Africa. The planet is sure alive and evolving too.

I'll post back here in January with a look at the aforementioned 2023 powerful planetary cycles. Optimum time now to dive deeper into your natal chart and transits with the assistance of a professional astrologer. Schedule TODAY your appointment! I am honored to serve you while I have the available time.

Comments are welcomed below (subject to moderation).

Wishing everyone many blessings during a meaningful holiday or festive season.

Sat Nam

Starman, Joseph Mina
December 20, 2022
Stellenbosch, South Africa

Aries New Moon April 1: New Initiatives & Life Choices

2022-04-01T19:06:00.007+02:00

"Re-examine all you have been told in school or church or in any book, and dismiss whatever insults your own soul, and your very flesh shall be a great poem, and have the richest fluency, not only in words, but in the silent lines of its lips and face and between the lashes of your eyes, and in every motion and joint of your body." - Walt Whitman, Preface to Leaves of Grass

Greetings Seekers and Lovers of the Night Sky...

Plate Development by Joseph Mina

Aries New Moon arrives today portending a two-week period of building intensity in anticipation of the Libra Full Moon on April 16th and its square to Pluto in Capricorn. Seems this Universe is clueless when it comes to taking a vacation break. 😉

Walt Whitman's quoted ode above reminds us this raw, edgy time in which we live is a transformative stepping stone into a new reality. He encourages you to exchange yourself for a new version of you. Free yourself of constraining labels or beliefs. There exists infinite possibilities in a multi-verse of infinite Universes. On this Aries New Moon, invite in a new version of yourself and take steps to actualize it. There's a process of shedding old skin that's part of this exchange inviting the transformative energies of Pluto to assist you. This requires Aries traits of courage and a willingness to explore new ground.

Archetypal Aries is raw, primal, highly creative, always in the present moment, passionate about the inner dance and ready to set the world on fire. Abraham Hicks might have been considering Aries types when this came through the channel medium: "people will love you...people will hate you...and none of it will have anything to do with you." And I'll add "your life won't be boring!"

Fool Child - Voyager Tarot

Pure Aries is fueled by impulsive energy. It is entirely self-focused on individuated growth and experiences. To others, such may seem hyper-energized, uncooperative or self-absorbed. Yet, someone has to take the lead...someone has to get the ball rolling in a particular direction or trend. Oh yes...strong Aries types are rarely around to see things completed, especially anyone with Ascendant (rising sign), Venus, or Mars in this individuated vibration. Fueled by novelty, "on to the next greatest thing" is their fuel and passion, and sometimes their greatest challenge. As such, following impulsive urges can prove to be a two-edged sword at this lunation. Learning the art/balance between discernment and impulsive action is very helpful for the Aries mojo that fills us all in varying degrees of intensity.

This particular Aries New Moon occurs at 11° and conjuncts both Mercury and Chiron. Conjunctions (same degree) add to the overall energy pattern. There is also a sextile (60° angular difference) adding to this theme. These combinations are further detailed below.

In the spirit of Aries desire to always "cut to the chase",
consider these introspections for this New Moon period:

1 - What new steps am I ready to initiate on my life path?

2 - Am I feeling creative in my expressions and talents?

3 - Are these areas (1 & 2) congruent (in integrity) with what I want to manifest? If not, what needs to change in my life to align my actions with my heart's desire?

4 - Is my sense of self in alignment with my behaviors within my relationships? (intimate, work and/or friendship)

5 - Am I taking the time to stay energetically clear and strong? If not, what has to change to better nurture my body in a more progressive way (Uranus in Taurus theme).

6 - And in that vein, am I taking the time to strengthen my physical body? If no, what needs to change to better help my body align and attune with the ever increasing Earth vibration?

Here's the New Moon Chart with descriptive annotations:

Plate Development by Joseph Mina

What I find intriguing about this New Moon dynamics....

The Sun/Moon joins Chiron and Mercury in Aries. Chiron points to the inner wounding. In Aries, it underscores (especially childhood) challenges around being seen, appreciated, understood and encouraged within the family or any other cultural institution, such as school. Mercury is the messenger accessing memories from the Chiron experience. Sun/Moon in Aries desires something new or novel and immediate. With Chiron in tow, it seeks resolution or healing from the emotional and mental heaviness of the past. Sometimes this means closing doors in order that new doors may open. To further define this dynamic...

...a potent sextile (60°) angle commands attention in this chart. A sextile is a 60° angle between 2 planetary positions. It's an easy flowing expression of energy. In this case the aforementioned New Moon group and asteroid Ceres at 13° Gemini create this sextile pattern.

One of the four largest asteroids between Mars and Jupiter, Ceres in mythology is the daughter of Zeus or Jupiter in Roman lore. Ceres is described as the Earth Mother. She is associated with health, nutrition, agriculture and fertility. Her symbol represents transition, motherhood and nurturing. She is that inner/outer archetypal connection to what nourishes or supports you. It's helpful to know the placement of Ceres in your natal chart, as that points to what feeds and sustains you energetically.

When Ceres transits very changeable Gemini, your mental or thought processes and connections to the higher mind become your focus. Perhaps you are now considering joining a meditation, spiritual group, book club, acting classes etc. to further add depth, fun and/or clarity to your life's spiritual journey. Anything that stimulates progressive discussion or uplifting actions is fertile ground here for new initiatives.

As Ceres completes its current transit in Gemini over the next 6 weeks (enters Cancer on May 15), energies are favorable for engaging with other like-minded seekers, or even to create new alignments with others of similar values in support of your spiritual quest. And of course there's shadow potential here too. Around May 1, transiting Ceres will create a square (90°) challenge with Jupiter, Venus and Neptune in Pisces. This will be an ideal point to reevaluate any changes you have initiated in April to determine whether other considerations ought to occur before proceeding forward. See the introspections above, especially number 3 for further exploration. And speaking of Jupiter and Neptune...

...this potent archetypal duo meet for the first time since 1856 in their home sign of Pisces around April 12th. While this combination unto itself appears quite uplifting and inspiring, it occurs now under Pluto's strong influence in Capricorn. Given Jupiter's optimistic/expansive vibration and Neptune's penchant for seeing into the unknown and attuning to a more soulful vibration, a stronger tendency exists for misunderstanding and delusional choices. As a remedy for such, grounding-type exercises are essential to discern what feels true to you vs what does not. Anything embraced at first blush without conscious understanding of your choices may create undesirable outcomes. And lastly...

Plate Development by Joseph Mina

...there's Saturn, Venus and Mars in Aquarius. As I wrote in my previous blog, since early February Venus and Mars have been close together by degree, first in Capricorn just as Venus was ending its retrograde and now in Aquarius. Both archetypes have been under very strong Pluto influences too. Externally, the war in the Ukraine has been fought under this potent combination's transit the past two months. Add restrictive/limiting Saturn to the mix and the resulting aggressive tendencies on all levels of culture have been nothing short of off the charts, something I described as a possibility in my last blog.

This combination is a strong reevaluation/reorganizational point for what's meaningful in your life; what creates freedom; what is progressive and aligned with desires for social justice and equality; what creates greater harmony between the feminine and masculine internally and externally.

We have witnessed the shadow side of this energetic coin all too recently - from massive forced migrations in the Ukraine to a bizarre aggressiveness at the recent Oscar's. Contrast always defines. Other multiple conflicts around the world further underscore this contrast. Yet the very fuel of this intensity can be used for productive and creative expressions. And it all starts within you as you explore how the Venus and Mars components of your natal chart best work synergistically and energetically within yourself and when with others. Which brings my focus back to...

...Venus, now starting to pull away from Mars and Saturn and soon to enter softer, more soulful Pisces on April 5th. In the interim, Mars/Saturn will continue to intensify until Mars enters Pisces 10 days later. The weakening connection between these two personal planetary archetypes may be sufficient to effect a much needed truce between Russia and Ukraine as well as other ongoing conflicts. These initiatives will be on the front burner over the next two weeks as the energy builds to the Libra Full Moon on April 16 mentioned at the beginning of this blog.

All and all, these New Moon dynamics continue 2022's strong societal patterning of the old falling away, new alliances being created, and a growing determination, especially through the younger generations, to create a more sustainable existence on planet Earth.

Golden Days by Joseph Mina

Conclusion: A recent consultation with a client revealed strong family challenges involving her two year old. Children born over the last ten years or so have powerful sensitivities to everything around them. In utero, they recognize this current fast vibration intimately. And they are now here to shift this challenging juggernaut into a more sustainable reality. Hence, environmental and cultural intensity can easily be magnified in their actions and emotional behaviors, literally expressing what is being repressed around them. It is for this reason I consider it a matter of necessity more than than choice to introduce children to energetic bodywork whether they are new born or in their teenage years. Their advanced nervous systems and energetic fields are primed for such higher vibrational work.

Receiving such care can fine tune their energetic systems to be more entrained and aligned with the current acceleration of solar system and galactic frequencies. It's a powerful example of the value of self-nurturing care and its importance in navigating life. It also strengthens their body's core foundations for the more massive societal changes in the offing over the next 10 years.

Aries energy is attuned to the inner child. In its highest expression, it is playful and engaging. No matter what your age, this Aries New Moon vibration over the next two weeks can be used to initiate a wellness protocol that enhances your quality of life and those of your family members. Such action inspires you to stretch into new ground, which is fundamental to the changes we now witness.

The coming planetary cycles over the remainder of 2022 are a continuation of life changing and transformative choices and decisions. For example, in May, a very potent total lunar eclipse will grace the sky in Scorpio visible from North and South America, Western Europe and Africa. Also, that month will feature a Mercury Retrograde in Gemini/Taurus. These celestial markers, as well as those that follow, are the very energetic building blocks leading you to a new reality, one whose structure is unfolding moment by moment. We are the answers to our prayers.

As we have discovered over the past two years, the fragile energetic web of society is intertwined and interdependent on levels heretofore unrecognized or fully understood. At this New Moon window I encourage you to examine your current life course and choices, making adjustments in alignment with your deepest desires. The introspection questions above will be a helpful aid in that respect.

I welcome comments below.

Perfect time to explore your natal chart or better understand current energetic influences in your life? Sign up today for a Life Path Astrology Consultation appointment. Expanded awareness creates power , intention and direction.

Blessings and Sat Nam

Starman, Joseph Mina
April 1, 2022
Stellenbosch, South Africa

Pisces New Moon; The End Before The Beginning

2022-03-02T13:02:00.010+02:00

"I know not with what weapons World War III will be fought, but World War IV will be fought with sticks and stones." Albert Einstein

"Make uncertainty your ally, not your enemy. All leaps forward depend on reaching into the unknown. Once you see the unknown as the source of creativity, you no longer fear it. Instead, you welcome the fact that life renews itself in unexpected ways." Deepak Chopra

"This is the real secret of life - to be completely engaged with what you are doing in the here and now - and instead of calling it work, realize it is play." Alan Watts

Greetings Lovers of the Earth and the Cosmos

We arrive at the last New Moon of the current Solstice season at a time when the drums of war beat loudly from the Ukraine, reverberating across the globe. As with the Capricorn and Aquarius New Moons of the current season, this Pisces New Moon brings with it intensity and an unyielding theme of profound societal changes and conflict. Yet woven within this theme comes a greater desire for global compassion, empathy, grace and soulful connection. Quite the energetic contrast.

And while the heightened polarity of these times may seem rather unassailable and irreconcilable, historical context reminds us the overall thrust of progressive evolutionary change cannot be denied, vanquished or simply erased. As ever before, outlier waves of change will continue to stretch humanity further and further into this vast cosmic sea of uncharted waters we call the Universe.

Burial Cave, Fish Hoek

This past Sunday, I participated in a small gathering led by local Archeo-Astronomer Dean Liprini to the ancient Burial and Ascension Caves, south of South Africa's fabled Table Mountain and overlooking nearby Fish Hoek on the eastern shores of False Bay. It was such a mystical journey into the area's ancient cliffs, and so aligned with the Pisces New Moon themes set out below. You can read and see more about this enchanted experience on my Facebook page here

Pisces New Moon at 12° arrives today for most of the world, except for western China east to the international date line where it will be early on the 3rd. In this New Moon window, the intention to create and preserve something new going forward will be strong. Venus finally moves outside of its retrograde shadow for the first time in 15 weeks, escorted during this new month by achievement-oriented Mars and fueled by transformative Pluto.

In my last blog just before last year's December Solstice, I stated that looking ahead, 2022 would prove more intense than 2020 or 2021. In that vein, as all astrological cycles link and feed off each other, I see the remainder of 2022 as a snowball gathering greater momentum, yet continuing to unpredictably move into the heretofore mentioned unknown.

Humanity is now being ushered by powerful cyclical archetypal forces whose roots are imbued in profound evolutionary growth, and whose dynamic energy signals a time for accelerated and immense changes in the world's evolutionary path. The current war perpetrated on the nation of Ukraine is but one example of many conflicts around the world where the desire for freedom and self empowerment now strongly clash with its shadow components of oppression, poverty, and control.

Further, the grand themes of humanity's now rapid evolution are once again being strongly stirred out of their late 20th century slumber first by the intense Saturn Gemini/Pluto Sagittarius cycle of 2000-2002 (meltdown of beliefs and religious constructs), Uranus Aries/Pluto Capricorn cycle of 2008-2020 (radical change vs meltdown of foundational structures), Saturn/Jupiter/Pluto's Capricorn grand conjunction of 2020-21 (intense control/limitations), and now furthered amplified by the once every 22 year cycle of Saturn Aquarius/Uranus Taurus in 2021-22 (repression/lack of freedom vs progressive change).

Saturn ruler of Capricorn and co-ruler of Aquarius, and Uranus, also co- ruler of Aquarius, are continuing to mirror the amplification of this theme of progressive change in profound ways. The epic confluence of these titanic archetypes has agitated and stirred people from all walks of life and perspectives into a caldron of societal change, revolutionary behavior and resistance, and an unshaking quest to find one's truth. Is it any wonder so much tension fills the ethers these days. And I must say from my astrological perch, I see the power of this unfolding cyclical polarity strongly testing humanity's inner mettle and resolve in the coming days, weeks and months for the remainder of 2022 into 2023. Such is the time in which we live, grow, stretch and transform.

New Moon Dynamics

Here's the New Moon annotated chart:

This current New Moon in Pisces by itself would under other more favorable circumstances prove uplifting and celebratory, especially with optimistic Jupiter close to the New Moon degree and once again in its home sign of Pisces. It's the very type of fuel that heightens creativity in the performance arts, music and video realms. However, this New Moon is strongly influenced by other chart dynamics of greater intensity. That includes the triple conjunction of Venus, Mars and Pluto in late degree of Capricorn (rules, politics, governance, and business), and Mercury and Saturn together in Aquarius, each further magnifying the previously mentioned Saturn/Uranus cycle through the end of this year (status quo/autocratic rule vs progressive advances). Such components radically change the complexion of this New Moon's narrative from uplifting and expansive to a more shadow oriented and very inward soul reevaluation.

As such, Pisces shadow side becomes stronger at this lunation, further fueled by Jupiter's unduly optimistic nature and Neptune's delusional shadow tendencies. In that vein, this darker expression can be imbued with trickery and driven strongly by misinformation or deception. It can also further give rise to addictive drugs for purposes of escape (as we've seen in the last decade in the opioid surge) rather than spiritual enlightenment and deeper connection to the natural world. And it can challenge the very essence of empathy and sensitivity to those who struggle in life.

The golden opportunity though is to look within; to examine where you have detached from reality through avoidance and/or addiction tendencies to avoid feeling pain and suffering. Yes, I know that's rather a heavy mandate, but that's the essence of the energetic soup at the moment. On the flip side of this inward expression, this journey within opens a door for creating a new reality, one much more in alignment with your soul mandate as you energetically strip away that which doesn't serve your highest purpose for being alive on this planet NOW.

Voyager Tarot

Lastly, Venus, who entered its retrograde shadow on November 19, then stationed retrograde conjunct to Pluto just before the December solstice, emerges from this almost 15 week shadow journey the day after the New Moon. In tandem now with Mars, the archetypal expressions of the feminine and masculine qualities within us, they track together through most of March, next crossing into freedom seeking Aquarius on March 6th where powerful alignments occur with Uranus in Taurus on March 19-22 (self esteem, values, money, possessions) and Saturn on March 28-April 5 (autocracy vs freedom).

What Venus/Mars current encounter with Pluto at this New Moon or the coming interaction with Saturn/Uranus later in the month triggers remains to be seen. One possibility here, especially with Spring season beginning in the northern hemisphere, is a strong resurgence of mass protests, civil disobedience and political upheaval in various places around the world where people have felt oppressed, held back and freedoms have been restricted. Also, given the strong building Piscean influence at play there's more coming in the realm of climate change triggered by increased solar activity (we are now headed towards Solar Maximum in 2025) and environmental destruction, and strong viral concerns still influencing human activity.

Yet most importantly, Pisces' global influence reminds us all we are connected to a greater web of awareness that knows no bias, polarity or class divisions. When one suffers, we all suffer in some deep way within our psyches.

With that said, I offer the following suggestions at this New Moon:

Immerse yourself in the natural world through outdoor activities
Attune to the power of sacred sites
Raise the vibrational level of media content you watch, read or listen to
Surround yourself with people who are at your level of conscious awareness or higher
Pray and meditate (my mediation is a daily brisk walk amongst the elements where I live)
Participate in uplifting group activities such as a retreat or program
Connect with others in a meaningful, soulful way

Conclusion

Summer now wanes here in South Africa. I can sense the beginnings of the Autumn. I know that must sound quite strange to those of you who live in the now colder Northern Hemisphere where winter still holds on to its icy grip. Nonetheless, the seasonal shift as we near the Equinox on March 20th reminds us that life is about cycles, the yin and yang. Pisces the last sign of the zodiac prepares us for something new, regardless of where we live. Embrace this shift. Strengthen yourself physically, emotionally and mentally for the coming days.

On a personal level, I am developing a land, sea and sky Retreat here in South Africa called South Africa Tanzanite Retreat - an Inner & Outer Soul Journey. The precious stone Tanzanite, only found at the base of Mt Kilimanjaro in Tanzania, is a stimulator of higher vibrations throughout the body. It enhances spiritual growth on all energetic levels.

And primal Africa is the perfect location to shift one's energetic field into even higher frequencies.

Over thirty years, I have worked with groups from a wide variety of cultures who I would consider soul seekers: those discovering the deeper meanings of life through soul searching internally and externally. Over the past 6 years I have been led to work with individuals who run large businesses, investors who manage large funds, and other financial types, each of whom function in the realm of wellness products and progressive initiatives. These are people who influence many other people simply by the choices and decisions they make on a day-to-day basis in their respective industries.

In my desire to humbly influence a broader audience to look within, while recognizing I work best with smaller groups of 8 to 10 people, I decided to create a unique retreat format specifically designed to work with such influential people who function at a high income strata. It follows that meaningful changes experienced by participants in such a retreat can become a potent catalyst for their developing a more organic, sentient connection to this Earth and beyond. Rudolf Steiner spoke of this as the awakening of the super-sensibilities within the body. On that level there is no I. One is all and all is one.

As such, my primary audience will be people who have a strong influence on larger groups of people such as entrepreneurs, investors, celebrities, sports types, business owners, and upper management types. An important criteria will be a person who hungers for something more in their lives than just the accumulation of possessions and status, and who also possess the desire to invest in themselves, and more consciously invest in efforts to create a more sustainable reality in alignment with this planet's consciousness. These are the very people who influence many other people. Effecting meaningful, progressive change at that energetic level can create a strong positive rippling effect for a much broader audience. In that sense, everyone in that rippling circle benefits.

Tanzanite

This 11-day transformative journey for 8 to 10 participants will include 2 sunset and 1 sunrise safari excursions to attune to Africa's fabled big 5 animals; an ocean excursion to connect with the abundant ocean life here, including whales and dolphins; and sacred transmissions received under the grand world-class sky canopy of the Southern Milky Way, and within the cave structures of some of Earth's oldest mountains such as described in the beginning of this blog.

For the internal piece, my Quantum Alignment Bodywork Group Sessions, refined over the past thirty years, will be experienced four times during the Retreat. Additionally, sunrise yoga, movement, and sound will form the integrative parts that help participants assimilate and ground these profound land, sea and sky experiences. The combination of the external and internal will literally alter and enhance the energetic flow of participants reality. All meals will be organic and professionally catered. Support will be staffed at the local level here. This is an energy-rich exchange from start to finish.

I'm so excited about the possibilities. I've prepared myself for many years for this moment. Significant global cultural changes over the past two years have set the stage for an accelerated shift. And of course, the perfect situations, experiences and people met over the past two years has set the stage for the ultimate Retreat experience.

But that's not all. As importantly, using proceeds from the retreats, I will create a foundation here in South Africa to fully fund a similar Retreat format for young adults who are ready to take a much bigger and accelerated step in their evolutionary growth, but have yet to acquire the financial wherewithal to invest in such an experience. This younger generation's energetic field is attuned to the current higher frequencies. Their talents and abilities are profound. Such an experience will literally be a catapult greatly enhancing their ability to effect meaningful change on the planet in the coming years.

The inspiration to work with young adults in this retreat format came out of bodywork sessions I gave to a 21-year old woman in mid 2021 into this year. She had struggled the past 6 years with suicidal tendencies (four attempts) and strong social withdrawal. When I first saw her, she was on 7 different medications for depression, extreme anxiety, and strong mood swings. Her sensitivity field was literally numb and highly protected.

Her first session she learned that her strong sensitivities were a gift rather than a bane (she's super empathic). Her body quickly started to let go of strong tension patterns depleting her energetic fields. I saw her twice before I left for the United States for almost 5 months. During my absence she decided on her own volition to stop taking the medications. She experienced zero side-effects even though any medical person will say it's dangerous to do so. Upon my return in late October, her body quickly connected into the new energetic strategies acquired in her first 2 sessions.

She now smiles a lot (noticeable especially to her Mom/Dad), is engaging socially, has started working with dogs (they love her) and looks forward to her now once every two week sessions with me. She is discovering the power of her sensitive field from a very different orientation. And this coming about from brief 25 minute table sessions. From my perspective, her body strategies have received quite an upgrade. Potent reminder to never underestimate the body's capacity to shift into a different frequency given the right type of conscious input.

If such dramatic shifts can occur on a 1:1 basis, receiving such energetic care with a group of young adults in a Retreat format will redefine what's possible for this highly energized younger generation. A total win/win for everyone concerned.

At the moment, I am exploring ways to financially seed the organizational development of a structure supporting such a retreat endeavor. If you have any specific suggestions, or know of anyone willing to invest in such an enterprise, please contact me.

As always, I'm available for private astrological consultations via Zoom or Skype. It's such a powerful time to explore new initiatives and realities for the days ahead.

I welcome your comments below.

Sat Nam

Starman, Joseph Mina
March 2, 2022
Stellenbosch, Western Cape, South Africa

Gemini Full Moon and Solstice December 2021 - A Look Ahead

2021-12-19T08:15:00.018+02:00

“Certainty is a closing of the mind. To create something new you must have uncertainty.”
Milton Glaser - prominent 20th Century Graphic Designer (1929-2020)

"One cannot be prepared for something while secretly believing it will not happen."
Nelson Rolihlahla Mandela - former President of South Africa (1918-2013)

Summer musings on a Saturday from Stellenbosch, South Africa

It's been nearly 8 months since I last posted here. As I had already set out in earlier blogs my perspective for 2021's unfolding, I did not feel inspired to essentially write about the same themes over and over. However, more recently, the Gemini Full Moon and Solstice charts caught my attention.

When I looked at these charts a few weeks ago I realized here was a new and significant wrinkle in this ever shifting fabric we call life. In short, these two charts are potent mirrors for how energy will flow in 2022. Ready to dive in?

From my cosmic perch, 2021 has been quite a tumultuous year to date. And events sure mirror the strength of the related planetary cycles. On the last December Solstice, Jupiter and Saturn met at the very beginning degrees of Aquarius, which portended a renewed emphasis on the future, progressive ideals, expanding social media influences and societal change. Well...we're not quite there. While Pluto remains in Capricorn, it seems the requisite tension pattern necessary for a Plutonian meltdown is causing the progressive shifts to slow down. Nonetheless, Pluto's entrance into Aquarius in 2023 for a few months, then mostly in 2024, and fully in 2025 through 2043, will facilitate significant changes in this evolving Aquarius vibe.

But back to 2021...this year has proven to be much more socially challenging than 2020, something I saw as a strong potential back in January. That potential was dependent on social and generational actions during the first 6 months of the year. While 2020 became the year of the "great reset", 2021 has built on that reset with increased polarity, division and clamour for meaningful progressive change, or even fueled a strong uptick of rebelliousness. Ironically, these shifts have been stimulated by something unseen, namely a persistent virus that continues to adapt/mutate. In short, critical tension has continued to become stronger in the ethers. Ultimately such increased tension patterns may activate an energetic shift throughout the world whose very nature is simply beyond our current ability to grasp at this present moment in time.

We are now in the throes of strong archetypal planetary placements covering the range from Sagittarius to Gemini. Such placements are symbolic of a rapidly shifting and intensifying energetic landscape. Now more than ever, the only certainty is uncertainty. And that applies not only to 2022, but the next 10 years.
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Life Path Astrology Consultations: As 2022 rapidly nears, deepen your understanding of your natal birth chart along with a look ahead to 2022 and how to best navigate the planetary cycles of the coming year. I am available for private one-to-one consultation sessions via Skype or Zoom (audio recorded). Gift certificates for family and friends are available too!

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These are no ordinary times. I realize that's obvious to many, but it nonetheless warrants repeating. An ongoing and relentless global pandemic, intense weather phenomena and a disruption in the world's commerce and economic models mirror a volatile and highly changeable time. Where just three years ago change was not prominent on one's priority list, it now occupies most conversations and fuels many life-changing choices.

Behind this volatility lies major transformative astrological cycles. Such are akin to heralds portending huge shifts in consciousness and human interaction.

These cycles include Saturn vs Uranus (old ways vs progressive ideals), which began in early 2021 and continues until the end of 2022; transformative Pluto in its last two years transiting what was once reliable Capricorn (now becoming a meltdown of structures and the reorganization of the functional, political and business worlds); and very nebulous Neptune continuing to transit its equally nebulous home sign of Pisces through 2026 (imagery, delusion, increasing uncertainty, compassion, sensitivity, deception (fake news), unseen forces such as viruses, and a desire for oneness). Any one of the above cycles would prove challenging. To have all three in play and in various levels of reception makes for an unprecedented transformative engine.

So what in the world is going on?

In short...a lot! It's not until the end of 2022 that Saturn/Uranus move out of aspect; 2025 until Pluto moves fully into Aquarius; and 2025-26 until Neptune leaves Pisces for Aries.These three cycles are steering this transformative engine into unchartered waters. And in that vein I'll state right here: 2022 will prove more intense and transformative than 2020 and 2021. The 2022 cycles indicate such.

These cycles point to immense changes affecting all aspects of life. Further, a shift in the lunar nodes from Gemini/Sagittarius to Taurus/Scorpio on January 18th of 2022 vividly underscores how this coming year will be driven by Taurus/Scorpio themes such as the Earth and her changes, our bodies, the very life force that sustains us and all the inherent challenges these themes can conjure. The big question: how do you re-organize your life in the coming days to attune and align with these on-going massive cycles at physical, emotional and mental levels?

Which brings me to the Gemini Full Moon and Solstice charts, and their interrelated themes.

First the Full Moon:

Full Moon occurs on the 19th at 04:35 Universal Time (the window is 36 hours before and after exact). From central/eastern South America and far eastern Canada east to the International Date Line the Full Moon occurs on the 19th. From evening/late night on the 18th, the East Coast United States/Canada west to the International Date Line will herald the Full Moon. At that lunation, the Sun will be positioned in front of Galactic Center in late degree Sagittarius. By contrast, the Moon will be in opposite Gemini pointing in the opposite direction of galactic center. This placement is known in ancient lore as the "Gate of Man" or the "Silver Gate", a place marking the portal where new creative energies emerge; where souls enter the physical world. That's a potent vibration influencing your dreamtime as well as the Earth's ethers.

Also, this Full Moon is just 2 days before the Solstice. It won't be until December 2040 such a close timing occurs again.

Gemini is the shape shifter adapting readily to a changing landscape. Ruled by Mercury, Gemini also is the communicator, actor and transporter of information. Its mutable nature encourages us to be nimble and flow with change rather than getting stuck on what was. When Uranus ultimately transits Gemini in 2025, a new wave of communication will sweep through the consciousness. Perhaps such time will signal the emergence of telepathic abilities in children being born!

There are significant aspects in this Gemini Full Moon chart that warrant mentioning:

Venus Retrograde: on Full Moon day, Venus stations retrograde at 26°Capricorn and conjuncts transformative Pluto. That's quite an intense pairing. Here, this feminine archetype will begin a 40-day inward journey, ultimately appearing in the dawn sky on January 15th (heliacal rise), which signals a new Venus theme (Capricorn) for the ensuing 584 day Venus cycle. There will also be 2 conjunctions with Pluto: one during retrograde (Dec 25th) and during direct movement on March 3rd. The last one will also include Mars. That's quite the potent threesome.

Heretofore the Venus theme has been Gemini, due to its previous retrograde in that sign during 2020. Venus softens Capricorn and its hard-edge ways. One archetypal example would be the wisdom of the elder Grandmother/Grandfather present inside of each of us. This voice wants to be heard; wants to make a difference. Pluto helps by melting away resistance and obstacles.This exchange will pose quite the vivid contrast in styles. One example is the global attack on women's rights. Another, procedural steps being taken in the United States to make voting much more difficult, especially for less fortunate people.

On January 29th, Venus stations direct motion at 11°Capricorn. On that date, the Moon will position at 27° Sagittarius - the exact degree of the Sun at this Full Moon. The Moon also positions at that same degree on January 1, 2022. Intentions seeded at this Full Moon may reveal their gifts and opportunities to you around those dates.

Venus themes include beauty, artistry, self-esteem and self-worth, our core values, money, possessions and 1:1 relationships. It is a feminine/yin/nurturing vibe, and so sorely needed in this tumultuous, patriarchal infused world. This western to eastern sky transit of Venus symbolizes the end and beginning; a death and rebirth. That it begins with Pluto in the conversation puts a strong, transformative exclamation mark on that theme. The world we once knew is disappearing/falling apart. What awaits us on the other side is yet to be revealed. The inner journey will lead the way.

During this retrograde we have an opportunity to examine our core values about how we structure our world on a personal level. Are we congruent/authentic with those principles? With Pluto part of the mix, we are encouraged to go deep, perhaps down the rabbit hole, to examine what we truly value. This may prove to be quite a cathartic process, yet nonetheless essential as we move forward in a rapidly changing and somewhat compromised world society.

Also, on Full Moon day, Chiron whose focus is old wounding and its ultimate resolution, stations direct at 8° Aries. Chiron in Aries underscores the dilemma of individuation embraced/activated from a wounding experience(s). Such yields a false sense of self/survival yang tendencies. Venus, more a yin energy of varying degrees depending on its natal placement, wants to reclaim that ground, triggering an introspection about trust, intimacy, nurturing and safety: not only how these themes have challenged you in your life, but offering the opportunity to heal any wounding experiences, especially from your youth (Aries theme). This Chironic outer planetary energy points to generational and genetic themes inherent in all families and underscores patterns of abuse, control and survival.

Venus retrograde will create a square with Chiron in Aries as it nears its station direct placement at the end of January. Given the Plutonian start to the retrograde, I would not be surprised to see protests on a large scale given the troubling abridgment of human rights occurring around the globe in 2020-21. When Mars catches up to add stronger emphasis to this square, a combustible combination will reveal itself for all to see.

On a broader scale, such social upheaval we now witness and experience across all walks of life represent the initial stages of reorganizing the energetic field into a much more trusting, inclusive vibration, while maintaining one's sense of self worth and related core values. Given the world's response to the ongoing viral surge, enacting such a shift will require a significant change in how individuals view their placement in the grander scheme of life. We are here to grow, risk and live passionately in authentic ways. While protecting self may seem like the best strategy at any given moment, such a choice runs counter to the Universal principles of entropy and growth.

One specific suggestion related to the virus: start to see this virus as a creation of nature, whose primary role is to purge the energetic field of its human imposed disruptive energies (in the initial lockdown phases of March/April 2020, the Earth showed remarkable change in its waters and atmosphere as human activity came to a halt). Some say the virus was humanly created. While that may be ostensibly true, remember the Earth's elemental/natural forces work through our body and psyches whether we are conscious of it or not. And the Earth will have the last say about the human component on this planet regardless of our human interpretations and actions towards Nature itself.

Shifting to the Solstice chart

Sun moves to 0° Capricorn on December 21st at 15:59 UTC. Most of the world welcomes the Solstice on that date from 5:59 am in Hawaii to Central Asia just before midnight, or early on the 22nd from Eastern Asia to the International Date Line. On this day, Mercury positions at 12°Capricorn (just a degree from the eventual Venus station direct degree) while the Moon in Cancer creates an opposition to Venus/Pluto. Hence the overall emphasis for the ensuing season is Cancer: creating a healthy community, family and most especially new ways to nurture yourself and create a more nurturing reality. The contrast with Venus/Pluto may prove startling. Contrast always defines!

And again, given the current uptick in viral spread (this will continue throughout 2022), now more than ever it is paramount to take steps to strengthen your physical body's core energies through bodywork, pilates, yoga, physical exercise etc. Otherwise, attuning on a physical level to the emerging higher frequencies will prove more and more problematic and conflicted especially in 2023-2025.

Jupiter: on January 1, expansive Jupiter returns to its ancient home sign of Pisces (made a brief incursion during May/July) and will remain in Pisces until May 11, 2022. Jupiter expands all it touches. While usually very optimistic in its vibration, its overall effect has to be considered in the context of other interacting planetary energies. In this case, Jupiter meets Neptune on April 12th at 24°Pisces. Both archetypes rule Pisces. The last time Jupiter/Neptune met in Pisces was in 1856. Then, Florence Nightingale was emerging as a compassionate force amidst the horrors of on-going wars in eastern Europe. She was quite the Piscean archetype of compassion, mercy and forgiveness.

Pisces in part mirrors such compassion and the plight imposed by suffering. Renewed focus from a Piscean lens will occur in the realm of forced immigrations and the related hardships imposed on those vulnerable souls living under tyranny and oppressive conditions, or who have been traumatized by war. It will also further amplify the conversation about the viral spread (Neptune rules the unseen, including viruses) now sweeping the globe. Back in March 2020, I wrote about the emerging COVID virus. I encourage you to have a read.

Mercury Retrograde: On January 14th, Mercury will station retrograde at 10° Aquarius in conjunction with Saturn and square to Uranus in Taurus. And just 4 days later, Mercury's higher octave Uranus will station direct at 11° Taurus. Such shifts will raise the emotional temperature created by those clamoring for freedom, progressives wanting to move forward, and traditionalists who want to return to the "good old days". It will be quite the wild energetic ride during this period. Be very clear in your communications with others! Also, since Venus will also be in retrograde, signing of contracts, purchasing expensive items etc. are best delayed until March.

Mercury's retrograde over the ensuing 3 weeks will return to Capricorn (Jan 26th) to station direct on February 4th conjunct Pluto. This is where Venus began its retrograde journey and where the Sun was positioned at the beginning of Mercury's retrograde in Aquarius. That's a profound synchronicity.

This cosmic meeting occurs just 6 days after Venus stations direct near Mars. When Mercury stations direct on February 4th, Sun in Aquarius will be at the exact degree of Saturn and square to Uranus. And again, that's quite a bit of intensity and will strongly mirror in the ensuing days political upheaval vs progressive initiatives around the world. There's no putting the genie back into the bottle. We can only work with a vibration if it's active. And that requires being pro-active in our quality of life choices. Growth or safety? Always a choice. They can't exist together.

Reflections for the Full Moon/Solstice:

- Do I value myself and the inner gifts I have brought into the world?
- What needs to change in my life to deepen my appreciation of all that I am?
- What am I ready to change in my practical world to embrace a greater sense of self?
- What possessions am I ready to purge in order to ready myself for something new and uplifting?
- How do I want to be of compassionate greater service to others in the coming days?
- How can I create a more sustainable existence through my internal and external actions?

Conclusion:
It's always in the darkest hour that we are able to discover and embrace the light both within our psyches and externally. We are all connected in ways that transcend conscious thought. And therein lies the conundrum. As a global society, how do we create meaningful stability out of instability? How do we embrace the future with conviction and strength? How do we align with the tumultuous natural forces of this planet? How do we create a more sustainable world?

The answer to these questions is paradoxical. The answers lie within but are revealed through the synergistic actions of the collective. This emerging Venus retrograde will underscore the power of meaningful relationships in our lives; how strength in numbers focusing on an enriched reality can move mountains and overcome seemingly impossible odds/obstacles.

2022 will prove intense, yet offer expanded possibilities heretofore unseen. Trusting in yourself and others will be paramount during this time. It cannot be any other way.

I'll have more to share about the cycles of 2022 in a late January blog including Mars retrograde in October/November and a series of eclipses in May and November. Nonetheless, it's enough for the moment to focus on the current cycles at this Full Moon and Solstice time and work with their opportunistic offerings.

I welcome your comments below.

Sat Nam

Starman, Joseph Mina
December 18, 2021
Stellenbosch, Western Cape, South Africa

Scorpio Full Supermoon: A bigger perspective

2021-04-27T05:44:00.016+02:00

"Just as the body needs air, food and water, the spirit needs energy. Life force is a tangible energy that runs through the central vertical current of your spirit body and it can be seen in a shamanic state as a bluish-white hue."
Deborah Bravandt, Story Teller and Dream Interpreter

Greetings Cosmic Friends (and thank you for sharing this update with others)

Scorpio Full Moon arrives on the 26th/27th and coincides with the Moon reaching its closest point to Earth (perigee) about 12 hours after reaching full. This is the closest Full Moon of 2021 and will be followed in late May by 2021’s second closest Full Moon, which will also be fully eclipse. A lot of energy building here. Visually, Moon rise or set will appear larger than usual.

In this blog, I’m sharing 8 aerial images I’ve taken during my extensive flying to and fro on this planet. With Jupiter in engaging and wide-vision Aquarius at this lunation along with the Sun and Uranus both in earth-bound Taurus, seems purposeful to present you with images covering a bigger perspective of this blue jewel we call Earth. But before I present these images, here’s a few thoughts about the this power-packed Scorpio Full Moon and what it offers.

Scorpio energy focuses on the pure essence of life force. As one of the three water signs, it's the hot water one of the bunch. It’s the juice that animates, inspires, incites, motivates, and captivates. This lunation reminds you the more pure energy you bring into your physical form, the more everything you perceive changes including your emotional and mental states. Strengthening your energetic fields is paramount in this time of enormous change, faster vibrations and chaotic pandemic mayhem. And if you are raising children, the same holds true for them too! Humans, whether young or older benefit and actually thrive from opening their body centers to life's energetic flow.

Full Moon timing:

In South Africa on the 27th at 5:31am at 7° Scorpio.

West Coast US on the 26th at 8:31pm

East Coast US on the 26th at 11:31 pm

Hawaii 5:31 pm on the 26th

GMT 03:31 on the 27th.

This Full Moon features the receptive Taurus Sun joining unpredictable Uranus, ruler of Aquarius. With their opposition to the Full Moon, these 3 planetary archetypes create a square (90° square angle/challenging energy) with Saturn in Aquarius. Saturn looks to ground the energy and make it real. In Aquarius, its focus is on social justice, equality and a meaningful future that has meaning and purpose. Life force without such awareness is wasted energy which ultimately spawns mayhem and destructive environmental and social patterns.

Image by Visionary Alex Grey

Everyone is fueled by this hidden force from the moment of conception. It's the fuel that allows us to engage, connect and create/effect meaningful, expansive changes on this planet, and now even beyond. Hence, it’s necessary your physical body (Taurus) is being energetically fueled sufficient to promote growth, change, and creative expression. That's quite the energy requirement, requiring healthy eating habits, exercise, receiving bodywork, and having energizing experiences. On the flip side, insufficient energy leads to fatigue, boredom, a weakened immune system, poor choices and a resistance to change.

This Scorpio Full Moon reinforces the importance of stimulating life force in positive ways through your physical body in order to utilize a higher vibration of energy for your present and future endeavors. Doing so also adds a strong dose of emotional energy to any conversation or interaction involving the Scorpio qualities of shared resources, intimacy in relationship and matters of trust and the Taurus qualities of beauty, artistry, self esteem, and values.

Given the current pandemic concerns and its related fears sweeping the planet, only a healthy and vibrant body will provide in the long-term effective defenses against any foreign substance. Such is true for any age.

That pretty much summarizes the essence of this Full Moon. Next month another powerful Super Full Moon awaits (total lunar eclipse in Sagittarius) followed by a Mercury Retrograde in its home sign of Gemini at month-end. This is the Full Moon's chart (click or tap to enlarge):

The 2021 cycles are building energy again. Pluto will station retrograde about 18 hours after the Scorpio Full Moon. As Pluto rules Scorpio, moving retrograde on this Full Moon day puts a pretty big transformational exclamation point on this Moon’s powerful themes. Other coming outer planet retrogrades include Saturn in May, Jupiter and Neptune in June, and Uranus in August. So there is a decidedly an inward flow beginning now that will intensify the remainder of this season and the next. How that specifically looks remains a Scorpio-type mystery, however, given Saturn and Uranus’ square interactions during 2021 (next direct one in June), social, climate and body-centric related challenges will be on the front burner.

Curious about what's unfolding in your life? Times of immense change require new strategies, perspective and creativity. My astrological consultations are transformative, offering guidance for better understanding the current rapid changes and reorganizing your approach to life.

Schedule today! Scheduling is quite easy. Sessions are recorded (audio) via Zoom or Skype for your later listening/integration.

Recent client feedback:
"Thank you for your thoroughness with me during my session. Your expertise is truly amazing." MC, Brookline, Ma

"The session has given me momentum for my ideas, put ease to some of my doubts and reminded me that there are never too many colors in the crayon box." CA, Seattle, Wa

"Today was absolutely enlightening. So very, very, much to think about..ponder. I haven't felt this recognized in a long time. The noticeable significant shift in my field since the consultation is worth sharing a huge THANK YOU from my heart". YC, Ca

And now on to my images (click or tap on the images to see a larger version)

Portal To Another World

I love sitting by the plane window. I think ahead about the flight path, time of day, also weather patterns. I sit ahead of the wing for an even better view, and on the shadow side of the plane to avoid sunlight glare on the windows. Yes, there is a method to my 1st house Saturn/Virgo madness!

As I have Venus/Jupiter in Aquarius, the big picture from above inspires and excites me. Our planet Earth reveals itself in a myriad of surprising ways through a visual alchemy with the elements of air, fire, earth and water. No scenes is ever the same; constantly changing as the ground slowly passes by from my high perch. And in some cases the human element reveals itself. Yet, other than very large cities, signs of human design are dwarfed by the enormity of this beautiful planet.

Human Creations

Futuristic Array

Flying over the Nevada/California border en route to San Francisco from Denver, there’s the now defunct Crescent Dunes Solar Energy Project started in 2011, but decommissioned in 2019 due to inconsistent power generation. This solar brain-child was to provide electricity to the State of Nevada via this huge array of solar panels. However, like any industry in its infancy, a steep learning curve can prove fatal to early efforts. Personally, I like looking for natural or artificial patterns from aloft. If I didn’t know better, I’d say this was either a UFO hiding out from the masses, a mega crop circle, or a movie set for some sci-fi flick.

Desert Sunrise

Golden Morning Comes

My second image is more south near the southern California/Arizona border at sunrise. Light in the early morning or late afternoon takes on a golden-like mystical form. In the United States, if the schedule allows, I fly either a flight taking off at sunrise from the west coast traveling east, or a late afternoon flight going west, anticipating great stretching morning or late afternoon shadows over the Rocky Mountains, the Great Basin, and if on the LA track, the Grand Canyon area.

Here, about 25 minutes into the flight, the clouds of the night were starting to dissipate as the climbing Sun warmed the ground. Suddenly these golden-lit mountains appeared as if by magic. I remember taking the picture, then putting the camera down so I could fully witness this emergence. Meanwhile everyone else in the cabin was sleeping while my window shade remained the only up. Yeah, I’m that person.

Greenland (and it ain't green!)

Southwestern Greenland

Icy Shadow Play

I have always wanted to see Greenland from high above. Flying from Frankfurt to Chicago, the flight path sometimes will skirt the lower part of this huge ice island. I make a point of checking the flight path and even asking a member of the flight crew about the track before we take off. Fortune favors the prepared! Yet, I’ve learned the North Atlantic can be capricious, hiding land forms under a seemingly perpetual cover of clouds, especially in the winter.

On this particular flight, southern Greenland was waiting for us. These two images reveal the magnitude of this ice kingdom. Its steep cliffs and rugged shoreline reveal a hostile world, yet captivating in its stark beauty. Such a treat for the eyes!

The Ever Changing Rockies

Mountain Statement

Back to the Rocky Mountains. This scene is over southwestern Colorado. The snowscapes in these mountains are quite amazing. Yet composition is nonetheless challenging because of the lack of comparative scale. I like this picture in black and white, as it reveals the starkness of the white snow and the darkness of the mountain shadows in the late afternoon light. The small town at the foothills of these mountains was difficult to see at first. I can only imagine what the view must be like from ground level.

Namibia's Canyon Jewel

Fish River Canyon, Namibia

This next image takes you to the southern part of Namibia in southwestern Africa. Here is the Fish River Canyon, the second largest canyon in the world! Namibian landscapes are surreal. From stark canyons to monumental sand dunes to mountainous areas and large animals, such as the desert Elephants, Namibia is captivating and expansive. Here, I was a member of a photography group flying in a small prop airplane out of Fish River towards the Atlantic Coast and the deserted German mining town named Kolmanskop. The land here is sculpted by the strong winds that sweep off the chilly Atlantic coast. “Like a painting” I thought as we flew over this ancient terrain. In a future blog, I'll feature specifically some of my favorite images from this land of enchantment and mystical forms.

Thunder in the Morning

Madagascar Thunderous Morning

And my last image is of clouds. Whether I’m flying over the ocean or land, I find cloud patterns mesmerizing and sometimes daunting. These massive thunderclouds, some tinged in morning gold, were over the supersized island of Madagascar. I was en route to Johannesburg from Hong Kong on a 13-hour flight. Knowing in advance the plane time for sunrise and where the plane would approximately be, I was prepared to witness this anticipated morning treat. Again mind you, I’m the only one in the cabin with their window shade up. I guess this is one of those “early bird catches the thunderstorm” analogies.

I have many aerial images, and quite a number I have never gotten around to processing. That’s a future project. I selected these to provide you a sample of how I view the Earth from high above. The Taurus Sun shines its light on beauty and artistry. May the surge of Taurus and Scorpio energy over this lunation period stimulate and fuel your creative curiosity in new and energizing ways. May we all work towards a sustainable future for ourselves and those that follow.

Please leave your comments below (moderated)

Sat Nam

Starman, Joseph Mina

Stellenbosch, South Africa

April 27, 2021

Aries New Moon: Surfing The Creativity Wave

2021-04-12T01:33:00.002+02:00

“In order to carry a positive action we must develop here a positive vision.”
Dalai Lama

“There are risks and costs to action. But they are far less than the long range risks of comfortable inaction.”
John Fitzgerald Kennedy

Greeting Cosmic Seekers and Lovers of the Sky Story

Aries Plate by Joseph Mina

Another New Moon, another dose of 2021 intensity. This is the 4th consecutive New Moon that places a laser-like multi-planetary focus upon the astrological sign for the Sun/Moon connection. And while this lunation marks the peak of this on going intensity, nonetheless this concentration of planetary archetypes in one sign continues to strongly ripple throughout the remainder of this season. That includes the combination June's annular solar eclipse (visible over eastern Canada, Greenland and northern Russia) and Mercury Retrograde in Gemini.

And for further coming attraction purposes, the next two Full Moons are supermoons (the second being a total lunar eclipse in late May (visible over the Pacific basin and in various stages over North America). Given the world's continuing chaotic and uncertain state, these lunation’s are akin to strong exclamation marks in this year of rapid transition and change. And that transitional emphasis is strongly underscored at this Aries New Moon.

Such portends a surge of life force filling the energetic field surrounding you. Also, eclipse periods are always potent and timely for deeper understanding and substantive change.

And for the record, this Aries New Moon arrives on the 11th (today) at 4:31p in Hawaii, 7:31p West Coast, 10:31p on the East Coast, and on the 12th at 2:31a GMT, 4:31a in South Africa and early afternoon in New Zealand.

Last week, while waiting in line at a Farmer's Market (common reality in South Africa), I overheard someone say to a friend “I just want things to return to normal”. And that’s a very strong sentiment it seems. Yet, there really is no return to that reality. The celestial tides are all pointed in a very different direction: a significantly faster planetary vibration evolving over the the next 10 years.

Schedule today! Scheduling is quite easy. Sessions are recorded (audio) via Zoom or Skype for your later listening/integration.

Recent client feedback:
"Thank you for your thoroughness with me during my session. Your expertise is truly amazing." MC, Brookline, Ma

"The session has given me momentum for my ideas, put ease to some of my doubts and reminded me that there are never too many colors in the crayon box." CA, Seattle, Wa

Here’s the New Moon chart (tap or click on the chart to see a larger version)

Essentially, a substantial concentration of fiery Aries energy comes together for this lunation. With no planetary archetypes in retrograde until Pluto moves retrograde at the end of April, all signs point now forward. Yet, this momentum comes with some caveats.

Aries is akin to the impetuous, impatient child who loves to start projects, but easily becomes disinterested. Their fuel is pure novelty, impulse and short bursts of speed. Highly creative and very individuated too! Their challenges are hesitation, uniformity, reluctant cooperation and boredom.

As the first sign of the zodiac, this individuated fire sign says “just do it”. And in that spirit, now is the prime time to start something new that fuels creativity, novelty and action. It's akin to a surfer ready to surf the next wave. Yet, here's one of those aforementioned caveats: at this lunation Sun/Moon/Venus in Aries creates a 90° square angle with Pluto in Capricorn. That challenging contrast reminds us there is a Plutonian life-changing processes melting away old Capricorn-type energies (politics, rules, laws, judicial matters, corporations) to make way for a potentially more progressive expression in the coming years. Hence, any Aries-like initiatory energy on a personal, social or generational level must align with that flow. Best focus and intention would be progressive and forward thinking type initiatives. Otherwise, any new creative effort aligned with old conventional ways may prove to be short-lived. It's the contrast that defines safety vs risk.

And important to note, starting with Venus's movement into Taurus on the 14th, Mercury and the Sun will follow on the 19th. That's a lot of Earth-related energy adding fuel to Saturn/Uranus combination mentioned at #5 below. This period is akin to a charged up mini-Mercury Retrograde in Taurus as Mercury will be on the other side of the Sun from Earth's perspective (superior conjunction). "Staying grounded and focused" are good strategies for the next 10 days. Also, receiving nurturing body care ought to be high on your list!

Energetic Grid by Joseph Mina

(numbered annotations found on above chart)

1 - The Aries tribe includes (circled area in the above chart):

Chiron - embracing your uniqueness. Resolving hesitation, doubt, uncertainty through action.

Mercury - speaking with integrity; forward thinking

Ceres - being comfortable in your own skin

Sun/Moon - emotionally fueled action with determination and passion

Venus - acting up-front, determined and courageous (most masculine leaning of the feminine archetypes)

That’s quite a lineup of fire-fueled energy for you to access. Expectant parents take note and beware: any child born around this New Moon period is going to be unstoppable in their quest for creating change!

Supporting cast to help you navigate the next two weeks of this lunation include:

2 - Jupiter in Aquarius - optimistic, progressive, expansive, big picture in trine (120°) to Mars in Gemini and sextile (60°) to Sun/Moon/Venus in Aries. The beneficial trine requires action on your part to effect meaningful change in your life. The sextile further fuels this Aries surge with a determined, expansive desire to rebalance the scales of social inequality and justice. By contrast...

3 - Mars in Gemini is pure spontaneity and unpredictable. Mars rules Aries. In its Gemini skin Mars can be quite imaginative if the energy is channeled in an uplifting way. Yet...

4- Mars’ square (90°) to Neptune in Pisces at this lunation reminds you to make choices from a grounded place. Otherwise, Neptune’s shadow penchant for delusion and deep-seated fears may prove challenging.

Equally, Neptune’s building sextile (60°) to Pluto at this lunation is the underlying fuel for anything hidden, such as viruses. This is a potent connection that is just getting started. These two transformative archetypes came into orb back in 2019 just as the first vestiges of the pandemic were appearing. This energy crests, but not until 2026-2032 when 13 direct sextiles are engaged. Aside from Pluto’s completion in Capricorn over the next 2 years, this combined cycle has far reaching implications for how the natural world will respond to changes in climate and human-related environmental actions. Both Neptune and Pluto are transformative. Their close aspect to each other expands the combined dissolving energy exponentially. This particular combination will not occur again for 300 years! And last, but certainly not least...

5 - Saturn in Aquarius in square (90°) to Uranus in Taurus remains one of the major drivers for this year. While not aspected to the lunation, this current building square is part of a bigger 20-year cycle that now brings to light the push-pull challenges being revealed between conformity (Saturn) and rapid societal and Earth changes (Uranus). In part, this combination points to the critical tension building between conservative and progressive choices and direction. This arena will be super charged starting with the late May lunar and early June solar eclipses when these two archetypes come into their 2nd of 3 direct squares this year.

Reflections for this lunation:

1 - What am I ready to initiate in my life?

2 - Are my actions congruent with what I want to create? If not, what needs to change in my life to support my desires?

3 - Is my sense of self congruent with my actions within my relationships?

4 - Am I taking the time to be nurtured?

5 - Am I taking the time to strengthen my physical body? If no, what needs to change to better help my body align with the increasing Earth vibration?

Conclusion: There is an abundance of Aries-like creative energy in the energetic field at the moment. How you access and utilize this well of power depends on your clarity and willingness to explore the unknown. Such expressions is best used for expansive purposes. Yet, in this strong polarity, it can also fuel denser desires and troubling behaviors as has been evident since December's solstice. Looking a little bit ahead, the next two to three months will be a good indicator for how the remainder of 2021 unfolds.

In that respect, staying present (very Aries like) is a powerful strategy. In today’s climate, dwelling on the past, projecting too far ahead, or even struggling to initiate something can prove draining, and result in a weakening of the body's immunity levels.

Autumn's Message by Joseph Mina

A little over a month ago (my birthday weekend) I stood under the most spellbinding night skies in the mountains of the Western Cape. The light of the Milky Way was profound. From an upside down Orion in the west back to the Southern Cross near the zenith, the Milky Way's star fields seemed to pulsate.

Near dawn, the center of the galaxy between Scorpio and Sagittarius was high overhead (in the northern hemisphere this view is much lower to the horizon and hence less dramatic). I was fortunate to be with a group of astronomers who had quite a collection of telescopes. Viewing star fields through a telescope takes the experience to a whole other level. So many stars, nebula and galaxies too…each carrying information within the photons of their starlight. Messages from the beyond the beyond. I felt altered by the time I returned home. This was the perfect Starman gift: a deeply soul-satisfying experience. My Aquarian aspects were quite happy for days afterward.

Lastly, and somewhat strangely, Autumn is now well underway here. I captured the picture on the right at a local farmer’s market the other day. I call it Autumn’s Message. Rather a strange notion for my northern hemisphere readers who now feel the surge of springtime. Yet, regardless of the season, it's a good reminder that art transcends time, we exist in the same moment of time, enjoy beauty regardless of its source and time, and each contribute in our own unique way and timing towards creating a healthier world and human society. May your creative efforts continue to be your resounding answer to life’s challenges and opportunities.

At this Aries New Moon I wish you new insights and creative joy.

Comments welcomed below!

Sat Nam

Joseph Mina

Stellenbosch, South Africa

April 11, 2021

Libra Full Moon: Introspection Before Action

2021-03-29T04:24:00.003+02:00

“Integrity is telling myself the truth. And honesty is telling the truth to other people.”
Spencer Johnson - Author (1938-2017)

“Have the courage to say no. Have the courage to face the truth. Do the right thing because it is right. These are the magic keys to living your life with integrity.”
W. Clement Stone - Philanthropist and Author (1902-2002)

Welcome to the latest edition of my Astrology Update.

Full Moon day has arrived! Here in the Western Cape of South Africa, the Sun was adorned with a huge halo this morning (image to left). This halo-effect occurs when ice particles reside in the upper atmosphere. The dispersion of sunlight through this crystalline field creates a halo. Quite the atmospheric phenomena. Perhaps also the Universe’s way of saying “pay attention” on this Full Moon day.

Today’s Full Moon occurs in Libra, the archetypal sign of relationship. And to be clear, Libra encompasses all types of relationships, not just the intimate ones. Libra is also personified by archetypal Venus. Hence Venus qualities such as inner or outer beauty, love, self esteem, values, balance and harmony feature strongly in this Full Moon's expression and message.

For the record, maximum Full Moon occurs today (28th) at 8:48 pm here in South Africa (SAST), 2:48 pm US East Coast (EDT), 11:48 am in the western US, 8:48 am in Hawaii; 18:48 GMT, and on the 29th from India east to the International Date Line. The Full Moon window spans 72 hours with the midpoint considered actual Full Moon. Hence, the Moon will appear Full over 3 nights.

The astrological dynamics of this Full Moon are intense (no surprise given current events). In addition to the Sun<>Moon opposition of Aries vs Libra, Venus and Chiron also join the Sun at the same Aries degree with Venus being at superior conjunction. Further, a grand air trine geometry is part of the energetic mix along with two strong squares and a quincunx further defining its overall significance.

Inferior and Superior Conjunction of Venus: From Earth’s geocentric perspective, Venus takes approximately 18 months to conjunct the Sun.The term inferior conjunction indicates Venus is between the Earth and Sun, and also retrograde. Same is true for Mercury. By contrast, when Mercury or Venus appear from Earth’s perspective to travel behind the Sun (as occurs near today’s Full Moon), the term Superior conjunction applies.

Inferior conjunction heralds the coming appearance of Venus or Mercury in the eastern sky before sunrise; superior conjunction announces a western sky appearance in the offing after sunset (May 24 for Venus). Morning sky placement points to something new; evening sky placement is a time of maturation from what has been acquired or learned during the morning phase. So with that as a backdrop, here is the Full Moon chart:

Breaking It Down:

1 - Sun, Chiron, Venus in Aries opposing Moon in Libra:
Aries vs Libra opposition points to an introspection about how one’s integrity (Aries individuation) matches up against creating harmony with others (Libra). Both sides of this equation are important. Add transiting Venus at superior conjunction (love, values/self-esteem) along with Chiron (wounding/healing) to the Aries energetic mix and the question of integrity/harmony further reveals challenges you have experienced during those times when your sense of self along with your values (integrity) have been at odds with the desires, orders or demands of others.

Venus Star Pentagram: this term has found its way of late into the broader consciousness. Venus’ passage from inferior conjunction (Venus between Earth and the Sun) to superior conjunction (Venus behind the Sun such as today) back to inferior conjunction ( occurs 5 times over an 8-year period or every 18 months or so. These 5 inferior conjunctions to the Sun form a geometric star pentagram pattern that shifts by 1 to 2° at each 8-year mark. Over a very long period of time, this evolving geometry reveals a spiraling motion within this pentagram pattern. Rather remarkable and mystical how Venus’ orbital motion creates such symmetry and beauty. Here's a good video illustration of this spiraling motion.

The last Venus retrograde (inferior conjunction) was May/June of 2020 in engaging, playful, spontaneous Gemini. However, that cycle began in direct square to Neptune in Pisces. Such combination ushered the coming intensity for the 2nd half of 2020 fueled by an intense viral spread (Neptune rules the unseen, including viral and bacterial influences).

Venus now at the midway point (superior conjunction) to its next retrograde come December and inferior conjunction January 9, 2022 sets the energetic stage for reflection about the past 11 months and the significant changes that have occurred in your life and throughout the world. Quite telling too this superior conjunction occurs at the same Aries degree as the March 2001 Venus inferior conjunction. This along with the next two 8-year Aries intervals in 2009 and 2017 represented significant periods of strong and substantial change.

While I don't usually ascribe much weight to Venus or Mercury's superior conjunction as I do their inferior conjunction retrogrades, today’s triple Aries conjunction is certainly a pay attention moment, especially given the divisive polarity of these times and the social, economic and health challenges now faced by many people. Also, this Full Moon dynamic augurs more uncertainty in the coming months in the realm of meaningful relationships in your life.

Using my astrological interpretation guide (you can download a copy here) along with your natal chart (if you don't have one, you can obtain a free chart here), you can further distill this Full Moon's influence by understanding the symbolic nature and placement of your natal Venus together with the area of your chart influenced by this Aries intensity. Knowledge and awareness is power.

2 - Grand Air Trine - includes Moon in Libra; Saturn in Aquarius, Mars/North Lunar Node in Gemini. Any trine (120° between 2 related elemental signs) requires some sort of conscious action to activate its dynamic. A grand trine involves 3 planetary aspects each 120° from the other 2 members. Today’s grand trine is in the element of air. This implies communication of knowledge, thoughts and ideas. Of its members: Moon carries the emotional message, Saturn the structural or organizational part, and Mars reflects the action required. What complicates this otherwise beneficial geometry are the two squares and quincunx associated with Uranus (unexpected change), Mercury (communication) and Neptune (soul mandate).

3 - 1st square - Saturn vs Uranus: as mentioned in other recent blogs, Saturn in Aquarius in square to Uranus in Taurus is a potent 20-year cycle last triggered in 2000-01. Saturn wants certainty; progressive Uranus thrives on change and chaos. This push/pull energy can be seen in the US social dynamics of progressive ideals and forward movement vs conservative retrenchment and restrictions. Further Uranus in Taurus creates a strong quincunx (think paradox) with the Moon in Libra (annotation #4) implying significant progressive changes can actually create a more harmonious flow. Meanwhile…

3 - In the second square, Mercury/Neptune in Pisces squares Mars/North Node in Gemini - the New Moon earlier this month was strongly Pisces oriented. Now, Mercury moves into the same degree area. Mercury, in general fuels communication and movement of energy through thoughts, ideas and perspectives. In its Piscean passage, it evokes the soul mandate of Neptune, including our connection to the natural world, which stands in stark contrast to free-spirited and action oriented Mars in Gemini. A vivid example of such contrast is the very recent grounding of the world's largest container ship (size of the Empire State Building in New York) by the wind effects (air element) of a sand storm in Egypt's narrow Suez Canal. That blockage of this very busy shipping lane has literally brought shipping commerce in that part of the world to a halt. The global rippling effect will be felt over the next few weeks. Such an event is another potent reminder how the natural world always has the last say when it comes to human evolution and desired action. While astrological cycles do not predict such specific events, they certainly forecast the energetic dynamics that influence choices, behaviors and actions.

Hence, these two squares and quincunx by earth and water elementals are significant “buts” to the otherwise harmonious flow of a grand air trine. In the context of this Full Moon’s overall introspection, and contrary to Aries’ otherwise full speed ahead mojo, this Full Moon slows down the energy, setting the stage for the next two Full Moons in Scorpio (April 26/27) and Sagittarius (May 26).

These coming two Full Moons are considered a Super Full Moon (Moon at perigee near the Full Moon timing). Hence the Moon will appear larger than usual in the sky and feel more amplified than usual. The second Full Moon will also be a total lunar eclipse of rather very short duration (14 minutes) visible around the Pacific basin. Lunar or Solar eclipses are pay attention moments and can prove intense. Hence, by the end of May, the energetic buildup initiated at this Libra Full Moon is leading to a very potent Sagittarian introspection around your spiritual connection to your life path, its evolution and opportunities, and its soul-driven quest for meaningful freedom not only for this year, but for the decade ahead.

Questions for this Full Moon:

What does relationship mean to me in my life?

In what areas can I strengthen my integrity relating to others?

How can I strengthen my relationship with the natural world?

What parts of my psyche are ready to reveal new aspects of my inner self?

Conclusion: the strong Aries vibe at this lunation is atypical. Aries is usually quite action/achievement oriented and quite the initiator. However, given this lunation’s strong squares and quincunx, plus the movement of Venus and the Sun over the coming few weeks across the very ground of the recent 2020 Mars retrograde in Aries, a slow down of momentum seems to be in the offing in preparation for powerful shifts and changes in the latter part of April into June.

When I set out my perspective of 2021 in this blog, I wrote the first half of 2021 would be a strong indicator for how the 2nd half of the year would unfold. As we near that halfway point, you are offered at this lunation an opportunity to reevaluate actions you want to take in the coming months to create clarity, enhance your inner and outer resources, strengthen your physical body, and decide the various steps you are ready to take to help you further embrace meaningful change. As always, your natal chart is a powerful guide at this introspection point. May we all choose wisely in the days ahead.

Comments are welcomed below.

Next blog: a bigger perspective - some of my favorite aerial photos.

Sat Nam

Joseph Mina

March 28, 2021

Stellenbosch, South Africa

Pisces New Moon March 2021: Amplifying the Dreamtime

2021-03-13T16:15:00.009+02:00

“You see things; and you say, ‘Why?' But I dream things that never were; and I say, ‘Why not?" George Bernard Shaw - Irish playwright (1856-1950)

“There are some people who live in a dream world, and there are some who face reality; and then there are those who turn one into the other.”
Douglas H. Everett - British Chemist/Academic Author (1916-2002)

We arrive near mid-month, a potent junction of time and space, to briefly step beyond the bounds of reality before the change of season arrives a week from now. Yes, we stand at the doorstep of the Pisces New Moon and its energetic merging not only with the Sun, but Venus and its higher octave Neptune too. Welcome to the dreamtime on steroids.

Before I get to the primary focus (you’ll see why that’s an unintended pun in a moment), I wanted to briefly mention this very potent New Moon dynamic. Pisces, the last sign of the zodiac represents the end point or conclusion of the zodiac. In that sense, its all encompassing theme of oneness implies an archetypal merging of the eleven other zodiacal members. It’s the culmination of life’s journey, a turn of the wheel, an end before a beginning.

New Moon arrives today (13th and my Solar Return day). Only other time a New Moon occurred on my birthday was in 2002. Also, I have had two Full-Moon birthdays, one in 1960 and the other 1979. Each of these lunar events on my Solar Return day proved significant in my growth and evolution in the year that followed.

At this New Moon, especially as a new season awaits at the coming Equinox (20th for most of the world (near midnight on 19th in Hawaii)), we are encouraged to dream big, especially over the next 2 weeks; to embrace the mysteries of life through our connection to the natural world, to be compassionate to self and others, and to heighten our awareness and expand our purpose for being on this earthly plane.

Yet, important to remember that Neptunian energy, especially as it transits its Piscean home sign can cast spells too over one’s perspective. This can lead to delusion, addiction patterns and over-sensitivity. Neptune also rules the unseen, which includes the microbial world.

Uranus in Taurus, especially in its square now to Saturn reminds us to stay grounded, receive meaningful bodywork/energy work to stay strong and clear, and to set aside down time to avoid overload. It also reminds us the evolution of humanity depends on forward thinking. The past is past. Building bridges leads us to a new Earth reality.

For my birthday, I’m headed to the mountains north of here to drink in the magnificent, spellbinding Southern Hemisphere night sky. There I’ll meet up with some dedicated amateur astronomers who spend hours photographing various celestial wonders. Being washed over by starlight is the ultimate birthday gift for me! And to be able to see such grandeur through large telescopes is simply cosmic icing on the galactic cake!

And now on to the blog….

Archetypal Neptune in part rules imagery, including video, movies etc. A movie is a stitching of many images: each frame an illusion of a moment. It also expresses its vibration through music. In this blog, I am sharing four images I photographed during my Japan journeys over the past 3 years with commentary about each image. This was not an easy selection, as I have a lot of memorable images. However in the spirit of the Pisces Moon I’ve selected the following as representation of what this Moon offers:

First up - Messages To The Beyond (click or tap on an image to enlarge it)

Photographed at a temple in the mountains near Japan’s ancient capital of Kyoto, these wooden placards, common in Japan, are placed by Shinto and Buddhist worshippers after writing prayers or wishes. And there they artfully hang in gratitude to the kami (spirits or gods) for receiving their messages. In Pisces, we reach beyond the veil of reality to embrace the realm of the soul and its poignant mysteries.

This is a wide-angle perspective to give the viewer an on-going feeling of continuation for many prayers and wishes found here.

Next - Mystical Ontake (own-ta-kay)

High in the central mountains of Japan are some memorable peaks, including Mt. Fuji. And while Fuji is the quintessential symbol of Japan, the peak pictured here is also quite revered. This is Ontake in the early morning autumn light, the day after Full Moon in Nagano Prefecture. Snow capped throughout most of the year, its 10,000+ ft (3067m) summit watches over this bountiful area of Nagano, Japan.

Ontake is an active volcano, which last erupted unexpectedly with a methane explosion in 2014, killing 63 people who had ventured to the summit. Nonetheless, a shrine is found at the summit, and visited by many people each year. Close up or from afar, Mt. Ontake is such a stirring sight throughout the day. I chose to portray this scene in mostly black and white with the slightest hint of color to further bring focus to these mountains in the distance. Telephoto lens slightly compressed the scene for added effect. The Moon was part of this amazing early morning delight.

Torii Gates

Found at many shrines in Japan (did you know Japan has over 85,000 shrines throughout the country!), these red gates symbolize the boundary between the shrine’s sacred mystical space and ordinary space. As I walked through the gates I had the feeling I’m was stepping back through time, or entering a land beyond time and space. Getting this shot was not easy. Popular shrines are usually crowded. So to be able to photograph the ongoing flow of the red gates without anyone blocking the long path was a sign the shrine watchers were fully supportive of my creative touch, or I was just plain lucky (I think it’s the former).

This is another wide-angle capture to emphasize the elongation of the path and accentuate the on-going red gates, leading to a mysterious place. Also, the image was taken from a very low angle. In photography, seeing life from a different perspective heightens the mood and energy exchange of the scene. By the way, that low angle is essential when photographing young children to capture vividly how they see life.

And lastly, Chaos and Stability

I love experiencing the rapid, icy streams coming from the high glacier passes of Japan’s central mountains. This very cold water is energized as it rushes over boulders and rocks on its way to the main rivers and ultimately the Pacific Ocean or Sea of Japan. I refer to this area of Japan's Honshu island as Chi Heaven. In this scene I wanted to emphasize the contrast between the rushing, fluid water and the solid rock. The illusion of stability right there. Over time, the continuous surge of water will melt away the rock. And so too such is the mysterious transformative nature of Neptune. Where Pluto energy melts down anything in its path, equally powerful Neptune dissolves that which stands fast. That includes one's understanding of reality imbued by family, tradition and culture.

As an aside, Neptune and Pluto are now in a building sextile aspect, coming to an exact sextile in 2026. Because of Pluto's eccentric orbit, the energetic dance between these two archetypes will weave magic into the consciousness over a 6-year period and 13 exact meetings. This portends the dispelling of unnatural restrictions and delusional beliefs to usher a new wave of power. I'll write more in coming blogs.

This is a slow-shuttered image using a tripod. Using a slower speed smoothes out the water imparting a sense of rapid movement (great paradox!). It was photographed in the late afternoon.

Also, I will be posting more of my images in future blogs. Next time I'll share some of my favorite aerial images taken during my many travels. Meanwhile, I’m exploring various ways to show my images to a wider audience.

Finally, 2021 is proving to be as intense as 2020, except there’s positive movement underway. What has been learned from such a massive reset? What’s ahead? These and other questions serve as a foundation for an astrological consultation. Times of immense change require new strategies, perspective and creativity. My astrological consultations are transformative, offering guidance for navigating the current rapid changes and reorganizing your approach to life.

As always, I am available for a professional astrological consultation session to help you better understand these profound shifts in the context of your birth chart.

Schedule today! Scheduling is quite easy. Sessions are recorded (audio) via Zoom or Skype for your later listening/integration.

Recent client feedback:
"Thank you for your thoroughness with me during my session. Your expertise is truly amazing." MC, Brookline, Ma

"The session has given me momentum for my ideas, put ease to some of my doubts and reminded me that there are never too many colors in the crayon box." CA, Seattle, Wa

As the shift occurs between seasons, remember the energetic field is quite fluid and unpredictable. Moving your energy, communing with nature, staying focused are strategies that will make the seasonal transition more meaningful and grounded.

Sat Nam

Starman, Joseph Mina
Stellenbosch, Western Cape, South Africa
March 13, 2021

Virgo Full Moon: A Call To Service

2021-02-27T15:30:00.008+02:00

"The best way to find yourself is to lose yourself in the service of others."
Mahatma Gandi

"Everybody can be great...because anybody can serve. You don't have to have a college degree to serve. You don't have to make your subject and verb agree to serve. You only need a heart full of grace. A soul generated by love."
Martin Luther King

[Please fwd this blog to friends, co-workers etc. Thank you!!!! Also, to be included on my mailing list, subscribe here today.]

Such stirring quotes from two mystical, yet very practical sages on this day of heightened service...this day of the Virgo Full Moon.

Full Moon arrives today at 10:17 am in South Africa, 3:17 am on the East Coast, just after midnight on the US West Coast, and late at night on the 26th in Hawaii. UTC is 8:17 am on the 27th. In the other direction, 5:17 pm in Japan and 9:17 pm in New Zealand. Important to get these Virgo facts straight!

Virgo underscores the power of sacred service to others. It also brings the energetic spotlight on your health and well being. Ruled by Mercury, Virgo brings its laser-like focus on life's details. This sometimes rather hard Virgo edge though is softened by its Piscean underbelly of compassion, mysticism and empathic connection to the global community.

Full Moon, Klein River Lagoon, Stanford, South Africa
by Joseph Mina

With the Sun now transiting mystical Pisces, we pause at this Full Moon to reflect on how we want to be of greater service in the days ahead. Meanwhile humanity continues in turmoil as it reorganizes from a very intense 2020. As I mentioned last year, 2021 will add to 2020's intensity as we prepare ourselves for the next wave of heightened awareness and greater social responsibility and progress.

As Pisces' ruler Neptune continues its epic transit through its home sign, compassion, grace, empathy, soul understanding and global connection become ever more important extensions of how we share our gifts and talents with others in the spirit of greater service. Also Neptune in Pisces has spawned an enormous wave of creativity in the performing arts and imagery. Quite exciting.

This Full Moon sets the stage for the two-weeks ahead leading to a strong mystical Pisces surge at the coming Pisces New Moon on March 13th. On that day, Venus, Neptune, Moon, and the Sun form a close conjunction and further fuel a potent sextile with Pluto in Capricorn. That combination amplifies a soul intention for compassionate global awareness, empowerment, strengthened self-esteem, values, direction and oneness. Also, on that transcendental day, Mercury emerges from its retrograde shadow after almost 9 weeks in Aquarius.

In turn, the fleet messenger will enter Pisces on March 16th for a 3-week Piscean transit broadcasting the Aquarius message from its retrograde journey. This transit will include a conjunction with Neptune on March 30th. More progressive messages in the offing from the realm of the beyond the beyond .

Further amplifying today's Full Moon is an amazing grouping (see annotated/abbreviated chart) that brings a clearer understanding of this Full Moon's overall theme of service. That grouping includes (reference annotated numbers)

1 - Saturn in Aquarius in square to Uranus in Taurus - essentially the old versus the progressive new. On a deeper level, as more of the Aquarius age comes into form, Saturn wants integration/grounding/structure for Uranus' progressive breakthroughs. Therein lies the struggle on many levels between letting go of the past in order to fully embrace the future.

2 - A Yod - Saturn along with its sextile to Chiron in Aries each form a quincunx (150° angle) to the Virgo Moon creating a potent Yod (finger of God) geometry. As this is a Full Moon, the Pisces Sun (3) creates a strong opposition focus at the mid-point of the Saturn/Chiron sextile.

A Yod configuration implies a paradoxical solution to an otherwise awkward mix of energy. Since Chiron entered Aries in 2018-19, its healing quest has focused on reclaiming one's individuated uniqueness despite cultural and family impositions for conformity and adherence to social mores. This emphasis is further amplified for those born while Chiron transited Aries last (1968-77), and for anyone with significant cardinal placements in their natal chart (Aries/Cancer/Libra/Capricorn). Joined with Saturn, a collective quest of individuated, unique parts gives support/strength to the Piscean intention of global harmony, awareness and oneness - many diverse parts create the one. Said another way, it's through our individuated gifts that we grow stronger together.

The last piece (4) is Uranus' trine (120° angle) to the Moon and its 60° sextile to the Pisces Sun. That implies two intentions. 1)Taurus points to the Earth and the make up of our physical bodies. Hence, the Full Moon in part encourages you to bring greater compassionate (Pisces) awareness to your body and its health, especially through physical touch (bodywork). 2) Equally, that same Virgo focus is directed to your relationship with the Earth itself and the opportunity to deepen your connection to the very planet that sustains you.

Suggestions and Reflections for this Full Moon

Going back to a blog I wrote for the 2015 Virgo Full Moon, I found my suggestions then are just as timely now. They are:

Receive bodywork...take care of yourself
Reorganize your daily priorities
Clean your living space...even make a Feng Shui appointment!!!
Show compassion for those less fortunate in life
Dedicate yourself to renewed service for others
Create or strengthen a daily routine, ritual or practice
Strengthen your nurturing-like focus for what is most important in your life

Recommended questions for reflection:

Voyager Tarot by James Wanless

-In what areas of my life can I show more compassion and understanding?
-What events from the past call out to me for healing and completion?
-How do I feel about the future and my role of service in the world?
-What unique gifts of mine am I ready to share with the world?

Voyager Intuition Card for this Full Moon: What does this Virgo laser-like focus want us to know?

Ace of Wands - Illumination. This is one of the Magician cards. As a spiritual focus (wands), this vibration brings light to where there has been darkness. It literally illuminates the field with greater awareness and direction. It's akin to walking into a dark room and turning on a light. Brilliance vanquishes the heretofore unseen.

Coming Astrological Events
All planetary archetypes are now in direct motion and continue so until Pluto turns retrograde in late April. That's a lot of forward progress in the field for productive actions. Also:
Mars enters Gemini - March 4
Pisces New Moon March 13 10:21 UTC
Mercury enters Pisces - March 16
Equinox March 20th 9:37 UTC
Venus enters Aries March 21

Conclusion
In a world of turmoil many now seek answers to unanswerable questions. Yet these very life questions trigger insight, creativity, choices and new direction in our evolutionary quest to create a healthier and more connected world society. Matters of health are significantly heightened these days thanks in part to an unseen viral spread. Important to remember the very elemental substance that makes up our physical body is the same elemental matter that makes up the Earth. We are connected to planet Earth and its vibrational field.

Equally, the very vibration that powers this planet, also powers/fuels/motivates us through our physical forms. Beyond the current social question about whether or not to vaccinate or how to social distance etc, it's imperative now to focus on physically, emotionally and mentally strengthening your body's core. The Earth's planetary vibration is continuing to increase.

Back in 2008, I noted the vibrational field was getting stronger and amplifying beyond anything we could comprehend, especially in the years ahead. That message is even more poignant now. As I gaze energetically ahead at the coming astrological cycles, I see huge changes in the mix over the next 11 years, changes that will make the previous 20 years of change seem rather slow. While younger generations are more attuned to this building vibration, it's incumbent on both younger and older generations to raise the inner body frequencies to attune to this building wave: literally a time to expand your energetic bandwidth through bodywork, yoga, wellness modalities etc.

2021 is a year ripe for reorganizing and reestablishing your focus in a sea of immense change. The coming years will build upon this 2020-21 foundation, creating a world significantly different than the one we used to know. How will you navigate such change?

As always, I am available for a professional astrological consultation session to help you better understand these profound shifts in the context of your birth chart. Schedule today! Scheduling is quite easy. Sessions are recorded (audio) via Zoom or Skype for your later listening/integration.

Recent client feedback:
"Thank you for your thoroughness with me during my session. Your expertise is truly amazing." MC, Brookline, Ma

"The session has given me momentum for my ideas, put ease to some of my doubts and reminded me that there are never too many colors in the crayon box." CA, Seattle, Wa

Next blog - more of my images. If you missed my recent blog featuring some of my photographic work and the stories behind the images, you can access it here.

Sat Nam

Starman, Joseph Mina

Stellenbosch, South Africa

February 27, 2021

Aquarius New Moon: a sample of my photographic creations

2021-02-12T19:11:00.011+02:00

“Actually, it’s nature itself that creates the most beautiful pictures, I’m only choosing the perspective.”

"You don't shoot things. You capture them. Photography means painting with light. And that's what you do. You paint a picture only by adding light to the things you see."

Katja Michael (photographer and author)

Greetings Cosmic Seekers

At this Aquarius New Moon it seems like an appropriate and over due time to widen the perspective (Aquarius quality) and share with you some of my images photographed over the past few years. If you are also looking for astrological information, have a read of my last blog entry where I focused on the cycles of 2021. Those grand themes will be strong indicators for the various lunations in the coming months.

On and On and On by Joseph Mina

We are in a strong Aquarian surge right now, and Mercury retrograde too, evidenced by social justice eruptions in different parts of the world. Yet Aquarius is also directed to future thinking and technology, as well as viewing reality through the widest possible lens. So in that spirit, here’s some of my imagery that sees life through that wide-field optic. The above image is one example how I look for the unusual in unusual, Aquarian ways.

How I came to be enamored by the photographic arts will be for another time. Yet, one thing is certain: I want my imagery to be evocative and compelling for the viewer. We are sensual beings. We drink in light in its myriad forms and shapes. Its energy acts like a trigger that arouses emotion, empathy and memories. This art form can also inspire us to see more of the world, deepening our appreciation and stewardship of the Earth's many treasures.

I must add it was back in 2015 that I felt spent by dissecting astrological cycles on a more regular basis. Focusing on such was proving to be a drain. More so, I wanted to further explore the world of photography and expand my compositional abilities.

A few years later though I came to the realization that photography, astrology and bodywork are talents of mine that ought to be integrated within my overall work focus. I had grand designs to do so in 2020 (aka not listening to your own astrological advice😉). Now as 2021 unfolds, I'm taking steps to bring this trio onto a bigger stage as I anticipate borders in other countries reopening later in the year. More about that in some future blog. For now though, I present eight of my images, most from my time here in South Africa over the past few years, along with a short account of why I photographed each particular scene from an Aquarian wide perspective. (Note: clicking or tapping on an image will yield a larger version).

I begin here with a self-portrait taken in an elevator of all places at a hotel in San Diego back in late 2018. It was my first full day at the hotel. When I stepped into the empty outdoor-facing elevator, whose sides were glass, my eyes were immediately drawn to its mirrored ceiling. Fortunately, I had my camera in hand and the elevator remained empty for a short while allowing me to compose this extreme wide-angle self portrait. I like using very wide-angled lenses. They convey a somewhat distorted perspective of what otherwise would be a rather ordinary scene. As with this image, I also have learned to seize the moment and not get dizzy in the process. Shortly after taking this image, the elevator was suddenly full of people. Carpe diem!

This next image (above) was taken just a couple of weeks ago at the nearby beautiful Vergelegen Gardens in Somerset West in South Africa’s Western Cape. It’s summertime here now. These gardens are a wonderful oasis from the structured reality of the human world. It’s here that magic is revealed and rejuvenation takes place. Walking barefoot in the grass, hugging a tree, listening to the birds, smelling the captivating fragrance of roses and being fueled by the wind and nearby mountain scenery takes therapy to a whole other level. And it’s in settings like these I feel most creative, open and expressive.

I owe this self-portrait to my tripod and this massive camphor tree, whose age spans over 400 years old. I felt so excited the first time I saw this grove of camphor trees in the Western Cape back in 2014.

It was during my early travel days in Japan I first became familiar with this amazing tree species. There, the cinnamomum camphora tree is indigenous and now found throughout many parts of Asia. Camphor oil is quite therapeutic containing anti-fungal and anti-inflammatory properties, as well as its fragrance creating a feeling of calm. Standing in the presence of its massive size sure is humbling and meditative.

I have such a love for our arbor friends. Each tree conveys a unique characteristic even within the same species. The ancient ones reveal much about a long life of environmental stresses and growth that span way beyond the average human age. They also carry an amazing vibration and presence.

Placing my body against a tree and breathing slowly transports me into a different energetic realm. I’m transfixed. It’s here I’ll look up to see an entirely different perspective of these ancient living wonders. Which leads me to this next image below I photographed near a very old temple on the southern-most large island of Japan, Kyushu. This particular camphor tree makes its South African cousin seem rather young. Its age approximates 1,600 years. That’s a long time to be a watcher of this temple complex. Yet here it stands, having withstood the ravages of time. As I gazed at this tree's varied canopy, I marveled how its branches twisted and turned into a spiral. Equally marveled at the variety of life that grew on the trees outer skin. Life completes itself in the most amazing ways.

Next time around I’ll feature more of my Japan images to introduce you to this rather mystical land. But for now, I’m jumping back to South Africa and a much bigger perspective.

South Africa has the oldest mountains in the world, some dating back over 3 billion years. To put that enormous time frame in some sort of context I’ll squeeze that epoch of time into a 12-month calendar: on that scale the entire 4 ½ billion-year time span of our solar system renders each second as 150 years. Imagine! The average human life span occupies a mere half-second of time on this cosmic calendar. An entire lifetime in a blink of an eye. By contrast, a 1,400 year old camphor tree has been on the calendar all of 9.3 seconds. The American Revolution occurred about 2 seconds ago. Yet these ancient African cliffs have been on the same calendar approximately 8 months or near 21 million calendar seconds (I did warn you I was going down an Aquarian path 😉) Such ancient wonders these mountains. Here’s a sampling.

This snowy image was taken in July 2018. Winter in the Southern Hemisphere usually brings snow to the upper mountain passes of South Africa and its high desert plains. It’s quite a stirring sight. When I first saw this particular scene I was struck by the enormity of scale. Fortunately, there were buildings nearby to keep everything in perspective (very important in photography).

This particular mountain chain is part of the Boesmanskloof. While the elevation is a mere 6,500’ (1980m), the steep nature of these cliffs point to days far beyond the comprehension of anything else on this planet. Rock climbers from around the world come to the Western Cape of South Africa to test their abilities against such sheer cliffs.

Not too far from the Boesmanskloof are the mountains of the McGregor area. Here in the high mountain valleys, winter is awashed in a multitude of flower blooms known locally as fynbos. Native aloes, a wide assortment of protea, jades (crassula), many succulents and a great variety of other indigenous plants awaken from the summer's searing heat (sometimes exceeding 110f (43c)) by the onset of much cooler temperatures and the Cape's winter rains. Here, at sunrise one very chilly morning, these flaming Aloe torches blazed in the golden light of the Sun as if they were heating the surrounding air. It was such a stirring start to a memorable morning of mountain-valley hiking and flower enchantment.

From mountain to sea, this is Kogel Bay area on the eastern side of False Bay, which rings the southern area of the Western Cape. Personally, I find the European-named “False Bay” an affront to this magnificent body of water. Long stretches of course sandy beaches line its coast in a wide arc some 25 miles (40k) across, bordered by steep mountain cliffs. These wind swept beaches are favorites of surfers and beach goers alike. In the summer its mid 60's water (18c) is so rejuvenating, fueled by the relentless on-going wave action emanating from colder Antartica waters far to the south.

Which leads me to this wider perspective view of False Bay taken from high above the town of Muizenberg in the northwest corner of the bay. As is typical in the month of February, it was super windy that day making for an endless surge of waves along the bay. In the distance are the Hottentots mountains, which form the backdrop of the Kogel Bay image above. A little bit of history: English sailors were looking for the southern tip of Africa, which is Cape Agulas somewhat to the east. They thought this bay was the southern point. Learning it was not led to the False Bay moniker.

Moving south along the coast from here is a beach area called Boulders, near Simon’s Town. This area is known for its massive granite boulders (estimated age 540 million years) and its colony of small African penguins, which are also found along the coastlines of Southern Africa and Namibia. This indigenous species of penguin is on the verge of extinction due to development and over fishing of their food supply. Fortunately, environmental efforts are underway to reverse this trend. The colony at Boulders was started in 1982 from just one pair. It now numbers over 3,000 penguins and is under the protection of the Cape Nature Conservation and the South African government.

For this image, I wanted to capture the penguins in their protective rock habitat they call home. I find the penguins ability to navigate these large boulders rather remarkable. Environmental adaptation never ceases to amaze me.

Observing the penguin's social interaction is quite magical. At times, a penguin pair can be seen touching flipper to flipper: standing motionless for a long time. Also, their calling sounds can be ear piercing. Hard to imagine such sound comes from such a small bird. At Boulders, the local conservation group in concert with the government created a special viewing area to watch the penguins without disturbing them. Proceeds support on-going conservation protection efforts.

And lastly, this scene is from Helderberg Mountain Nature Preserve not too far from where I live here. The fynbos here is so magical and varied. Many hiking trails too, some which lead to the very top of Helderberg mountain (3,730ft (1137m)) and its expansive view of the area. The last third of that hike is steep! Hence, taking camera gear to the summit for the bird's eye view of the nearby bay is not my calling.

So that’s my Aquarius perspective of life here in South Africa's Western Cape. In future blogs I’ll feature some of my images from Japan, aerial scenes (I do like to fly), artsy stuff and more!

Back to astrology for a moment. The script above Greece's Temple at Delphi reads "Know Thyself". Astrology is a compelling tool to explore the inner psyche and outer experiences. In a period of enormous change, this is the gift to yourself or others that keeps on giving.

2021 is a year ripe for reorganizing and resetting your focus in a sea of immense change. The coming years will build upon this foundation, creating a world significantly different than the one we used to know. As always, I am available for professional astrological consultation sessions to help you navigate these shifts. Schedule today! Scheduling is quite easy. Sessions are recorded (audio) via Skype or Zoom.

Sat Nam

Starman, Joseph Mina

Stellenbosch, South Africa

February 12, 2021

Leo Full Moon: Planetary cycles of 2021- endings & beginnings

2021-01-27T16:23:00.005+02:00

"The cave you fear to enter holds the treasure you seek"
Joseph Campbell

"What you seek is seeking you"
Rumi

Graphic design by Joseph Mina

Powerful words, especially in this age of seeking. And 2021 represents a seeking year: as the dust of 2020 settles, it's the beginning of a journey to redefine you and your place and purpose on planet Earth.

Before I start this review of the 2021 astrological cycles, there are two items I want to mention:

Last update, I offered an astrology special for private consultations. $25 off for initial or follow-up appointments made on or before Jan 28th. As I'm late getting this update out, I'm extending the following offer until on or before February 2nd, when Venus enters Aquarius:

Lunation Special: $25 off any initial or 1-hr update consultation session booked on or before February 2nd and completed by the end of February. Just use the code (special25) when booking your appointment. Scheduling is quite easy. Sessions are recorded (audio) via Skype or Zoom (your choice). This special price also applies to any gift certificate for another's initial session.

Note: if more than 6 years have passed since your last consultation with me (December 2014 or earlier), I will need to review your natal chart in greater detail with you. Hence, please make an appointment for an initial session, which offers a more comprehensive review of the natal chart.

The script above Greece's Temple at Delphi reads "Know Thyself". Astrology is a compelling tool to explore the inner psyche and outer experiences. In a period of enormous change, this is the gift to yourself or others that keeps on giving. It provides the food for those seek greater depth about themselves and their place in this wonder we call the Universe.

Secondly, a live Zoom to discuss the 2021 transits and what I see as the energetic flow for the year has been on my cosmic to do list. However, slow internet complications on my end (at the moment I live in a rural area in South Africa's Western Cape) requires I find another location with better internet access. But that's further complicated now by time constraints imposed by the South African government (a 9p to 5a pandemic-related curfew in effect through at least Feb 15). This makes for a very narrow window for creating a live Zoom event that works for USA time zones (South Africa is 7 hours ahead of the East Coast US) without running afoul of the curfew. If Hawaii is considered (12 hour difference), 6:30 pm my time would be the latest start time. That's 11:30 am on the East Coast etc. I may have found a suitable location within that time window. Working out logistics now, which I'll announce as soon as I hear back from my friend. If that door doesn't open, I'll pre-record my deeper perspectives about 2021 and beyond, then provide a link via this blog. Either way, I shall prevail (he said with deep conviction to a Universe that enjoys paradoxical humor!

And now on to 2021:

A new calendar year usually ushers in a wave of strong desire for dreams and hopes (that seeking thing!) and best wishes for an uplifting year. That is especially true as we emerge slowly into a world vastly different than just a year ago. While I have been saying "intense" for a number of years leading to 2020, viral spread as a catalyst was not on my top 3 list. Yet in retrospect, of course the Universe would employ something unseen to deliver such a massive message of change and reorganization.

And while the overall planetary transit cycles for 2021 are less intense than 2020, they nonetheless express their influence upon an energetic field significantly altered by 2020 and prior events. We are treading new ground here for 2021 and beyond on a rapidly shifting and unpredictable landscape. This is the type of energetic field where growth and opportunity are most potent, and chaos and confusion abound. The last New Moon of almost 2 weeks ago in Capricorn mirrors this reality. The coming Leo Full Moon on the 28th will strongly emphasize it.

We are a little over a month passed the December Solstice. That solar standstill heralded a surge of new energy into the energetic field accompanied by Saturn and Jupiter entering future thinking, progressive Aquarius. The last time these two were at the same degree of Aquarius was the years 1345 and 1405. As then, 60 years will pass before the next similar conjunction in Aquarius come 2080. For historical reference, the Black Plague swept Europe in 1345 vastly altering that reality. In 1405 China set sail for the first time to explore the world.

Back to the present. This building Aquarian wave will be the on-going theme for the year, especially fueling/supporting Aquarius' progressive ideas and ideals. Yet correspondingly, transformative Pluto still has three or so years remaining in Capricorn, which augurs a continuation in 2021 of Capricorn upheaval and possible collapse, as the transforming of all aspects of Capricorn continues, including rules, laws, governance, politics and business. This massive shift is in preparation for Pluto's ingress into Aquarius in 2023/24.

As an aside, and an indicator of this massive shift, personal responsibility is an important Saturn-like trait in the Capricorn reality, i.e. being held accountable for actions averse to Saturn-type rules and accountability. In the United States, Donald Trump's second impeachment by the US House of Representatives (governance, rules, law) and the coming February US Senate trial (applying justice) strongly mirror this reality, and also strongly mirrors transiting Pluto in opposition to his Saturn/Venus conjunction in Cancer.

As a broad backdrop, here’s a quick look at the prominent astrological cycles for 2021 influencing the energetic field:

- Three Mercury Retrogrades in late Jan/Feb, late May/June and late Sept/October, all in air signs - effective communication and the sharing of ideas and beliefs are major themes here in the areas of social justice/equality and technology (Aquarius), sharing of information (Gemini) and meaningful relationships (Libra). Since mid-January, we have been in the shadow of the 1st of the 3 retrograde cycles, which stations retrograde on January 30th through its station direct on February 21.

- Two lunar and two solar eclipses: total lunar in May; annual solar in June; partial lunar (nearly total) in November; total solar in early December. 4 eclipses is about the norm for any given year. Sometimes there's but 3, other times 6 to 7. Time and Date is an excellent site for tracking and planning for eclipses.

- Three consecutive Super Full Moons starting in April: the middle one being the previously mentioned total lunar eclipse.

- Year-long square between Saturn in Aquarius and Uranus in Taurus
(last was in 1999/2000). This intense cycle is amplified in the coming Leo Full Moon on the 28th. This cycle is about endings and beginnings fueled by strong waves of change.

- A late-year Venus Retrograde in Capricorn (of course!) conjunct Pluto (double of course!!) at station retrograde, and occurring during an exact square transit between Saturn and Uranus (of course, of course, of course!!!). Venus’ retrograde extends into early 2022, which will imbue a strong influence into 2022 astrological themes. The Leo Full Moon has the same placement of these two. The era of the emerging, empowering feminine is well underway.

- Building Neptune sextile Pluto - a rather rare association (last exact sextiles between 1976-86; 1950-56; 1844-45; 1536-1540). Pluto's orbit at times is closer to the Sun than Neptune's. Hence, their orbital association is rather unusual and creates these rather extended aspects (conjunction, sextile, square, trine and opposition) over vast stretches of time. eg Last Neptune/Pluto conjunction was 1891-92 with its initial influence occurring in 1872; next is 2385. For anyone with an interest in historical events relative to this or other significant astrological associations, have a look here.

Specifics To The Above - Endings & Beginnings:

The coming Leo Full Moon on the 28th is a good template (even a mini version) for potent cycles occurring in 2021. Since the description of such cycles are set out below, I won't dwell on the specifics of this coming Full Moon except to say Venus at this coming lunation is at the exact degree of Pluto in Capricorn, and as mentioned above, will station retrograde come December 19th at the same degree. That signals an intensification and integration of powerful feminine principles into all aspects of Capricorn reality. That's readily evident now given the role women have played in the 2020 election cycle, and positions of authority in the newly emerging government and throughout society. On the US federal level alone, there are now 126 women serving as Senators or Representatives. That's an increase of 21 over 2016 numbers. Much more to come.

In General: the first half of the year carries the stronger energetic impact, as February-April New Moons will feature heightened surges of Aquarius (progressive), Pisces (global) and Aries (new beginnings) planetary transits, respectively. Also a series of 3 powerful consecutive Super Full Moon lunation's, including the May total lunar eclipse, will commence in April. And that's a strong energetic background for...

Jupiter and Saturn transiting through Aquarius during the course of the year. Expect social issues on the global stage to be heightened/magnified. This includes privacy issues, and strong social equality and justice issues too. Look for technological breakthroughs having practical uses (Saturn). Jupiter will move slightly into Pisces between May 14 and July 28, before fully entering Pisces on Dec 29th. That Piscean sampling will augur a time of compassion and global awareness for 2022-23, especially when Pisces' co-rulers meet (Jupiter/Neptune) in April 2022 (last time in Pisces was 1856 when the abolishment of slavery in the US began.) Look for a significant uptick in societal migrations during this Piscean period.

I expect another strong progressive wave of change during 2021 as the clamor for freedom from oppressive rule and dictatorships intensifies in part driven by the Saturn/Uranus challenging square (Saturn desires control/certainty; Uranus clamors for freedom/progressive change and is fueled by chaos) Also, expect a continuation of significant earth-based climate and geological events as Uranus continues its 8-year trek through earth-based Taurus (until 2025-26). This meeting of these archetypal titans will have a strong influence on how...

Pluto in Capricorn adds to the energetic conversation in the coming year. On its own, Pluto is considerably less aspected than 2020 when Saturn and Jupiter transited Capricorn, and Mars in retrograde in Aries created an intense 6-month association. Hence, there ought to be a drop in dark intensity by the time the 2nd half of the year comes around, unless the aforementioned Saturn square Uranus sets off a firestorm of change vs the status quo. If the latter, then the 2nd half of the year will continue the intensity begun in 2020. As previously mentioned, the Venus Retrograde in Capricorn in mid-December at the same degree as Pluto will be a defining theme for 2022.

More to the current moment, the first exact square between Saturn/Uranus on Feb 17, and just as Mercury nears its station direct on the 21st in Aquarius, will be a strong indicator how this Saturn/Uranus transit pattern unfolds over the remainder of the year. Chaotic attempts to overthrow the US government at the US Capitol in early January are one indicator of this building square challenge. There will be others, including virus spread and control. Ultimately something significant will need to shift in the human consciousness towards more progressive Uranus' side of the equation. The election of two Democrats to the US Senate on January 5th and a return to Democratic control of all 3 pillars of government is a strong indicator of this very tilting field of energy. Meanwhile...

Mars has now emerged from its retrograde shadow that began back on July 25th and its apparent movement is picking up speed. This particular Mars retrograde cycle in its home sign of Aries occurred under the umbrella of a global-spreading pandemic alert and in extremely strong square aspect to Jupiter, Saturn and Pluto in Capricorn. Global events of the past few months underscore the strong rippling effect of that period.

Mars energy is assertive, can be very intense (depending on its natal sign placement - fire signs and watery Scorpio particularly), thrives on achievement, and wants to blaze new trails. By contrast, whenever Mars moves retrograde, a very inward evaluation and recalibration process ensues relative to Mars’ very traits.

Further, as I have shared in earlier blogs, it’s rare for Mars to retrograde in its home sign of Aries (last Aries retro transits were in 1941 as World War II was just becoming more intense, and 1988 and the prelude to the 1989 Gulf War).

It would be pure speculation to postulate whether war in parts of the world is in the offing, or will intensity as an outgrowth of this just completed transit cycle. Yet the past two times Mars moved retrograde in its home sign, heightened conflict followed. In present time, conflict can be on a national, social or even personal level. The US Capitol siege poignantly expressed the dark-side release of this very intense, bound up energy. By contrast, the positive side is highly creative, imaginative and ready to break new ground. Always humanities choice.

Now, Mars will infuse the zodiac with this Aries theme until its next retrograde cycle in Gemini come October 2022. Aries is bold, intense (fiery) and impatient too. Right now it is in early degrees of Taurus fully loaded from its Capricorn contrasts with Jupiter/Pluto/Saturn. From here on out, inner momentum may become more noticeable (a call to action) depending on other transit aspects relative to your natal chart. On a more social/cultural level, look for strong progressive steps from the new Biden administration and the Democratic-controlled US Congress in the coming days, as well as resistance from Saturn-fueled traditionalists.

Mars remains in Taurus until March 3rd. In Taurus, Mars-type initiative returns for focusing on Earth-related matters, such as world climate, as well as a desire to create beauty, concentrate on self-esteem and decide what you now value. It also brings your attention to the strength and condition of your physical body. This poses a strong question about how you nurture and strengthen your physical form. Given the current pandemic intensity, that's a tall order. Such inner reflection would encompass questions about lifestyle, diet, exercise and personal choices that are influenced by...

A building Neptune sextile Pluto which was activated back in 2018. Neptune/Pluto sextile comes to its fullest expression between 2026 and 2032 when it begins a series of 13 exact sextiles in Aries (Neptune) and Aquarius (Pluto).Slowly separating after 2032, the next exact sextile of these two major archetypes won't take place for another 300 years or so in Aquarius (Neptune)/Aries (Pluto).

The overall cycle from conjunction to conjunction spans near 500 years with the next conjunction not until the year 2385 in Gemini. So any aspect (conjunction, sextile, square, opposition, trine) points to a particular quality of this much deeper wave of transformative intent and direction.

Best way to think of this dynamic sextile: Pluto = hot water; Neptune = source of the water, both working in tandem. Not many generations have this dynamic in their natal chart. Germane to those now alive: most born between 1976 to 1986 (Libra/Sagittarius to Scorpio/Capricorn) and 1950-56 (Leo/Libra) carry this exact sextile. The previous sextile would have been back in1845. With that energy signature comes a soul mandate that is non-negotiable and aligned with progressive trends.As such, this particular building sextile is literally the fuel of the soul embracing and inspiring the transcendence of our societal structures (Capricorn) through a global transformation (Pisces). In those natal chart having this sextile, its house placements and signs give further definition to its inherent power. I have this placement in the 12th (Pluto/Leo) and 3rd (Neptune/Libra) houses. Writing this blog is one of its expressions.

The shadow side of Neptune/Pluto is conspiracy theories, shadow realms, or anything outside the bounds or what is considered reality. This vibration has taken on added meaning since the sextile was engaged in 2018. If you have strong natal aspects in later mutable and/or cardinal signs (20°+), using discernment/scrutiny relative to any information suggesting nefarious motives is advised.

Neptune rules the unseen, including anything viral. It dissolves silently anything out of alignment with anyone's soul intention and purpose. Placed in strong aspect to Pluto, its directive mandates integrity, depth and purpose. Now in its home sign of Pisces, Neptune widens its scope to all things global, literally embracing all of humanity. By 2032, the days of the Capricorn-fueled Industrial Revolution of the past 2+ centuries will have come to an end, making way for an entirely different world order and societal structure. That the exact sextile occurs in the signs of Aquarius/Aries is indicative of the beginning (Aries) of a powerful progressive (Aquarius) wave emphasizing Pluto's Aquarius transit starting in 2023-24 and ending 2043-44.

Thoughts for Reflection during this current season:

In what areas of my life do I see opportunity this year?

What sacrifices and/or changes am I willing to make to embrace such opportunity?

How can I better strengthen my body and nurture my soul in the coming days?

How can I create a more meaningful sense of community that enhances the quality of life?

How can I become a progressive force in my community?

Best advice for navigating these cycles in 2021: Stay present, move with awareness, and use a good dose of clarity, fueled by your heart, when making choices.

Conclusion: Astrology transits are not one-off affairs. They add change, context and growth to the ever evolving mythos of life: much like weaving a tapestry. Hence, 2021’s transit cycles add to what has unfolded in 2020 and prior. Because of an unseen viral messenger, our world is forever changed on all levels. A return to what we once considered normal just won’t happen. The increasing vibration on all levels will demand faster thinking and collaborative strategies. It will also require greater inner physical strength and increased commitment to fulfill your soul’s purpose. The future is not set in stone. We are the creators of our destiny.

Please share your comments below. We all learn from each other's perspective.

Next Update: Taking a break from Astrology writing (a change): my recent photography - Stories behind the images.

Sat Nam

Starman, Joseph Mina

Stellenbosch, South Africa

January 27, 2021

2021 Astrology: Capricorn New Moon: Awakening Through Transformation

2021-01-15T20:02:00.007+02:00

"I have read somewhere of an old Chinese curse: 'May you be born in an interesting time!' This is a VERY interesting time: there are no models for ANYTHING that is going on. It is a period of free fall into the future, and each has to make his or her own way.

The old models are not working; the new have not yet appeared. In fact, it is we who are even now shaping the new in the shaping of our interesting lives. And that is the whole sense (in mythological terms) of the present challenge: we are the 'ancestors' of an age to come; the unwitting generators of its supporting myths; the mythic models that will inspire its lives."
Joseph Campbell (1904-87) American Professor of Literature; Comparative Mythology and Religion. from his book: Goddesses: Mysteries of the Feminine Divine, p.xiv

Greetings Cosmic Seekers

A Different Perspective
by Joseph Mina

Such prescient words from a great soul. Indeed, we are the myth generators in this time of extraordinary change. Perhaps someday, future generations will think of us as the elders of humanities new dawn.

And as with any New Moon lunation, it augurs a new dawn of its own; a new cycle to explore its invitation and work with its expressions. The first New Moon of 2021 arrived on the 13th at midnight on the East Coast US and east to the International Date line (GMT 5:00), while it occurred late on the 12th from Central US to Hawaii (7pm HST).

We are in a reverse lunar cycle at the moment (began last August) where the Full Moon's Sun sign placement occurs in a sign prior to the New Moon's Sun placement in that same sign. For example on Dec 30th Sun at Full Moon was at 9°Capricorn, while the prior New Moon was at 23°Sagittarius. This current New Moon Sun placement is at 23°Capricorn. This oddity will reverse itself back to the New Moon being the leader into a zodiac sign come August. In the interim, the Full Moon reveals the possibilities; the New Moon theme provides the journey to attains those possibilities. And so it is in these topsy-turvy times.

On the 13th, this New Moon positioned very near exact to Pluto in Capricorn, while Saturn/Jupiter/Mercury in nearby progressive Aquarius created a challenging square with Mars/Uranus in earthly Taurus, along with an energizing sextile with Chiron in Aries. That's quite the dynamic energy mix for further transformation, renewed activism and deeper integration over the coming two weeks.

Over the next few days, look for the beautiful crescent Moon in the western sky after sunset.

At this lunation, it's the perfect time to pause, revisit and refine your intentions made back at the December Solstice as well as the end of December Full Moon. No ship or airplane stays a steady course over great distances. Changes in direction are inevitable as external and even internal forces pose unforeseen influences upon the energetic field. Same is true for human behavior.

I intend to post later next week a brief overview of the 2021 planetary cycles. I thought I would do so today, however, this New Moon lunation requires a closer look, especially given the turmoil now sweeping the planet, and in particular the political turmoil in the United States.

Capricorn Lunation Special: $25 off any initial or 1-hr update consultation session booked before to January 28th and completed by the end of February. Just use the code (special25) when booking your appointment. Scheduling is quite easy. Sessions are recorded (audio) via Skype or Zoom (your choice). This special price also applies to any gift certificate for another's initial session.

Here's the New Moon annotated chart:

That large box on the chart illustrates an unusual configuration of planetary positions within the boundaries of Capricorn to Taurus. Although the planetary positions shift in the coming months, that boundary remains intact through March's New Moon lunation. Such a limited range of zodiac signs points to specific areas of life where the cosmic spotlight will shine most intensely for the coming 2 months. They are:

- Capricorn - our rules, structure/organizing form, politics, law and business and the corporate world

- Aquarius - freedom, the future, social justice and equality, technology

- Pisces - global awareness and empathy/sensitivity/compassion; attunement to the primal world prior to human intervention; imagery and music, and yes, anything of an unseen nature

- Aries - new beginnings, assertive, no hesitation, courage

- Taurus - beauty, artistry, values, self worth, sensual connection to life on the planet and to your physical body.

Capricorn to Taurus is an archetypal journey from the rules and structure society creates to the beauty and value or worth we impart to such organizational forms. As Venus is the defining energy for Taurus, this geometric path implies the energy field is conducive for imparting compassion, softness and grace into life's physical aspects despite an otherwise very intense societal, chaotic vibration now sweeping through our global society. Equally, there exists at the same time a strong progressive focus for equality and justice (Aquarius), plus a good dose of courage to blaze new trails (Aries).

Both Taurus and its ruling energy Venus relate in part to the sensual body and in turn to the Earth itself. My previous blog entry a few days ago underscored the importance of creating a greater integral connection to our physical body and the Earth, as 2021 and beyond transformative events unfold.

This New Moon chart is rather unique for the following reasons:

Sun/Moon conjunct Pluto/Capricorn.

The dark Moon crossing near this intensifying Pluto placement fuels a look deep within your psyche about what exactly needs to end and begin in your life during the days ahead. It also crosses a potent Pluto degree threshold at 23°13', which was directly crossed by Mars in square 3x while in Aries during its recent retrograde (Aug 13, Oct 7 and at the Solstice), as well as crossed by Saturn in late January 2020, Jupiter 3x during 2020, and Pluto itself as recently as the end of November.

Hence, this New Moon trigger point reactivates this very energy on a personal, social and generational level (is it any wonder life feels so stirred at the moment?). Equally, it is no surprise that Capricorn's focus on governance and the rule of law now brings much greater scrutiny. In the US, holding people responsible for the recent US Capitol siege is quintessential law-driven Capricorn territory. Likewise it becomes a strong mirror for the current planetary themes unfolding.

Saturn/Jupiter/Mercury in sextile to Chiron in Aries,
and square to Mars/Uranus in Taurus

Venus in Capricorn square to Chiron Aries;
Trine to Mars/Uranus in Taurus

That's quite a maze of conflicting energy.

Earthly Taurus points to life's tangible objects, the natural world, your sense of self worth, and possessions, including money. The square challenge created by Saturn/Jupiter/Mercury to the Mars/Uranus combination indicates a time to reevaluate priorities relative to social rather than personal issues, and communicate such to others (see Voyager card selection below). The Mars/Uranus part implies surprises or shocking events ahead in how such change manifests. Last week's US Capitol events are a good example. Meanwhile...

Chiron's slow nine-year transit through individuated Aries highlights instances where you have surrendered your deeper knowing to keep the peace with others, i.e. given up your inner power, or lost connection to your integrity. This Chiron/Aries 9-year transit is particularly a potent one for those born between 1968 and 1977, who will experience their Chiron return at age 50 (usually a period of health reevaluation and regeneration), 1951-55 and 2001-2005 (Chiron square), or 1944-46 and 1994-97 (Chiron opposition).

Note: Chiron's extremely eccentric orbit has it moving through certain zodiac signs either very quickly or quite slowly. Chiron moves slowest through the zodiac when closest to Uranus and fastest when inside Saturn's orbit (see illustration to left). As it represents the archetypal bridge between Saturn and Uranus, its focus and longer passage through certain zodiac signs, as now, underscores more pervasive societal changes necessary to move from a more controlled reality (Saturn) to a more progressive one (Uranus). Further, Aries focus always comes with a strong dash of courage, determination and empowerment.

Finally: this particular Saturn/Uranus cycle is most active for anyone with significant natal placements in early/mid degree fixed signs (Taurus/Leo/Scorpio/Aquarius), and specific to Venus/Chiron, early degree natal placements in Cardinal signs (Aries, Cancer, Libra, Capricorn). And it is further amplified by the coming...

Mercury Retrograde in Aquarius. Mercury enters its retrograde shadow today leading to the actual station retrograde on the January 30th. Visually, whenever Mercury appears in the western sky low to the horizon after sunset, know a retrograde will soon follow. All Mercury retrograde periods are times of "re" as in redo, regenerate, replenish, restore, relinquish, reclaim, reorganize, refurbish etc.

This retrograde period into the middle of February in particular will further focus on the aforementioned re-evaluation process from an Aquarian/progressive perspective, and set the energy in motion for Saturn's 3 direct squares with Uranus in 2021, starting on Feb 17th. More on this in my next blog entry about the 2021 planetary cycles.

Thoughts and Reflections For This Lunation:

- How do I want to reorganize my life in the coming year?

- If you feel trapped or restrained from moving forward: What am I ready to free myself from to create greater opportunity and forward momentum in my life?

- If you are embarking on a new path: What resources do I require to support me in the days ahead? What will it take to access and consciously utilize those resources?

- If you are in the process of closure: What lessons have I learned about my related choices in the past? What am I ready to do differently to further strengthen my ability to choose with clarity, courage and determination in integrity with my deeper knowing?

Voyager Intuition Card for this lunation:

Voyager Intuition Cards
by James Wanless, PhD

Five Worlds - Setback. The Worlds series represents our tangible/physical association with life. The Five series represents the lessons we learn in life that fuels our growth and enlightenment. My preferred name for this card is "step back". This is the pause where you take a step back to reevaluate options, plans etc. so you can then move forward with clarity.

In the sequencing of this remarkable deck, the previous card, the 4 of Worlds' theme is Commencement. That's the card of movement and initiating a new direction. On the other side is the 6 of Worlds and its theme Synergy where you find resources and new alliances through your "reevaluation period" to further support and co-create your goals/vision.

Inherent to these cards is the potential they offer. While oracle decks are used predictively, the power of this deck is best expressed through its visioning intent, i.e. observing the potential opportunities any situation presents, then making conscious choices in alignment with suggested options to further your growth and the development of your life gifts in this lifetime. It's quite the remarkable archetypal journey.

Conclusion: Yes, "setback" or "step back" sure defines this lunar period. Here in South Africa it's the heat of the summer, when vacation time is usually at its peak (much like July in the Northern Hemisphere). However, a pandemic entering its second year has triggered huge changes in human behavior (setback) and triggered the imposition once again of significant national restrictions in various countries. How this unfolds in the coming days is part of life's mystery and inherent challenges. While the 2nd half of the year portends more ease, it's our collective, conscious choices now that will determine to some degree the energetic flow of that period.

I am organizing a time later in the month or perhaps early February for a free Zoom presentation about the 2021 cycles and their implications for the year and decade ahead. It will be Mercury Retrograde time, which is the perfect time to step back and evaluate options.

As I live part of the year in a rural area of South Africa's Western Cape, internet speed here is slow. This makes video conferencing impossible. So one of two paths: either I find a location for the program with much better internet access for a video conference (my preference) or make it audio only. Stay tuned.

Next: 2021 Astrological Cycles - an overview

Sat Nam

Starman, Joseph Mina

Stellenbosch, South Africa

January 15, 2021

2021 Astrology: Significant Change Through Body Integration

2021-01-09T14:43:00.023+02:00

"Physical fitness is not only one of the most important keys to a healthy body, it is the basis of dynamic and creative intellectual activity."

President John F Kennedy (1917-1963)

"One cannot be prepared for something while secretly believing it will not happen."

Nelson Rolihlahla Mandela (1918-2013) President of South Africa

Happy New Year

This blog has been done and redone several times over the past few days while firmly encased in internet-utero. Recent political mayhem in the US has made me pause to better understand these quick changing events in relationship to the powerful astrological transits now taking place. In my last blog entry I mentioned this particular period as being quite intense, which has been borne out by recent national and world events. As far as the unfolding transits of 2021, I'll get to those in my next blog coinciding with the coming potent Capricorn New Moon lunation on the 12th/13th.

In this blog, I'm going to share a personal viewpoint born out of my 29 years as a bodywork practitioner and teacher, going beyond political events; beyond the heightened polarity of these times to the bigger issue at hand: our rapidly evolving relationship with Planet Earth, and in turn our physical bodies. For purposes of context, I'll first share some of my personal journey of my on-going transformation.

The practice of bodywork, much like Astrology, comes easy to me these days. It's very familiar ground, something I was clueless about in my earlier pre-leap-of-faith years as an accountant and CPA. I laugh when I think back to what seems like a former life. Never then would I have believed there existed within my core essence these transformative gifts, simply waiting for a leap-of-faith moment to emerge.

Over the past 29 years I have worked with over 20,000 people, both individually and in groups. My core focus has been to help others improve the quality of their life; to develop a more energized and receptive body-based energetic field. My soul-style speaks to this: "I am a playful wizardly agent of change, courageously interweaving my creative expressions into the fabric and soul of humanity for our transformation and awakening."

Over time, the development of such focus began to readily unfold when I began receiving various types of bodywork, both individually and with groups of people on an on-going basis. It has been quite the rewarding investment on all levels. This includes chiropractic (Network Spinal), biodynamic craniosacral, acupuncture, nurturing gentle massage, feldenkrais, sound and color healing, yoga, transformational retreats and workshops along with physical exercise, quiet time, and introspection.

Meanwhile on the external, I immersed myself into the world of dolphins, whales and orcas in their natural habitats, experienced the galaxy and beyond under extraordinary night skies and during solar and lunar eclipses, witnessed up-close volcanic displays of power, attuned to Africa's magnificent animals, and journeyed on pilgrimages around the globe to natural power spots and spiritual centers.

Art Work of Alex Grey
https://www.alexgrey.com/

Placing myself in such fields of concentrated energy profoundly altered my perception of what was truly possible and expanded my psyche and soul connection to higher sources. With this shift also came great responsibility. I understood my ability to help others transform and expand was in direct proportion to my own dedication to growth: going way beyond what was considered normal. Ghandi's words "become the change you want to see in others" rings true here.

I have experienced many ups and downs on this life journey. Recognizing and shedding of old habits, letting go of what I thought I needed, passionate and rewarding relationships, and a willingness to surrender to a higher calling have been benchmarks on this life journey. I have loved fiercely and cried in the throes of deep, seemingly unending sorrow. Yet I realize each of these catalytic moments have strengthened me, expanded my awareness and intuition, been humbling, and have brought amazing people into my life. And for all that, I'm eternally grateful. Yes, opening up the body's energetic field can be quite perilous and unsettling to that part of me that craves stability and normalcy, but it sure is rewarding for that part of my awareness that desires more love, more passion, more grace and more life.

Through my life work I have witnessed through individual and group bodywork sessions energetic shifts, emotional releases, and profound transformations, convincing me anything is possible in this Universe of endless possibilities when it comes to the power of our physical body's innate wisdom. And this is especially true for today's newly born children through young adults, whose nervous systems mirror the external sophistication of today's computer systems, i.e. fast, multi-tasking and requiring attentive care.

Age is never a factor when it comes to receiving body care. From the moment a child is born, nurturing touch is essential to their well being. As biological age unfolds, this need becomes stronger. Equally, no limit exists to progressive growth, opportunity and our capacity to love, create and nurture this dynamic we call life.

Hence, it follows the more open and receptive you become to healing touch, the clearer, more fluid, and stronger your body evolves. This leads to a more dynamic, fruitful and integral exchange between our emotional responses and our mental capacities to create, and a stronger gateway to our creative potential, intuition and higher channels of conscious awareness. It follows: healthy people will make healthy choices for the benefit of themselves and humanity...always.

Today, we literally stand at the nexus between traditional human structures falling apart and the onset of a progressive wave of unbound, creative energy. The year 2020 has vividly shown us that chasm. Between these two realities lies a profound sea of confusion and change. And therein exists our dilemma. Do we remain at this nexus to promote and ensure stability, or do we cross a bridge of trust over this expanding chasm to create something new and uplifting for all. Traditional mental thinking will readily choose the former, as it appears safe and secure; progressive, soul-driven desires will always choose the latter and all it offers.

Historically, clamor for meaningful change and sometimes growth originates from the depths of our cultural and familial wounds. It is usually and most vividly expressed by those who have been abusively oppressed; denied their inalienable right to a meaningful and uplifting quality of life. Here, in periods of growth, the gift literally emerges from the wound. As we become a more connected world through the advances of technology, our awareness and empathy of such plight around the globe becomes even more vivid and disturbing to our human sensibilities, whether or not we are consciously aware of such.

Hence, regardless of position in life, beliefs, country of origin etc, it's time we collectively (Aquarius) realize our physical body (Taurus) is the key interface for accessing, integrating and expressing the sea of creative galactic energy that surrounds us! It stands to reason, the clearer and more integrated our body becomes with planet Earth, the stronger the energetic connection to each other and to the natural world at large [astrology interlude: the previous sentence pretty much encapsulates our human focus in the evolving and life changing 2021 transit of Saturn in Aquarius in square to Uranus in Taurus. More on that transit in my next blog]

Such a notion underscores our need as a world society to consciously work towards ending repression, poverty, starvation, national isolation and intra and inter-nation conflict, deficient education, war and its deadly tools, and social and financial inequality. Equally, there is an urgent need to attune to this planet's organic, vital environment in a way that rewards our stewardship of Earth's elemental systems and resources. Otherwise we will continue to subject ourselves to nature's not so forgiving responses to our gross environmental abuses (such as a pandemic), and the dirty footprint we continue to make on this sacred, ancient ground. While a vaccine may stem the current viral spread we now witness, such is at best a short-term response to on-going and increasingly more intense Earth response to our human destruction to the natural processes of the Earth and its many denizens.

Helderberg Mountain Western Cape SA
by Joseph Mina

The building cry for freedom in the coming days of 2021 and the rest of this decade will significantly determine the destiny and legacy of the human race. To me, the lesson of 2020 can be summarized in the following: when we abuse the planet to fuel personal, social and/or national gain, we deplete every living element on the Earth including ourselves and especially our physical bodies. Disease, pestilence and virus spread result.

And there exists a brighter side here. Imagine for a moment a world society aligned with the natural Earth cycles and in tune with its ever changing evolution. Such a vision points to a the existence of a healthy, dynamic environment with vital soils, organically raised crops, humane animal husbandry, fully shielded electronics, fossil-free power generation, vibrant communities around the globe, clean water and air, and a health model based on growth, quality of life and strength rather than the current disease prevention model of drug-driven, crisis based medicine.

In turn, such significant cultural and environmental shifts point to a future world devoid of such things as vaccines, debilitating drugs, pesticides, genetically modified foods, abusive animal farm factories, polluted air and water, plastics and other non-degradable products, and depleting electro magnetic fields. While our more primal thinking processes might believe such wholesale change to be impossible, I assert our higher sensibilities, especially in the younger generations, readily recognize the value of being a more connected human family in harmony with the very environment that allows us to grow and thrive. It's a circular, evolving mythos whose time has come. And this type of progressive change is already well underway!

A New Dawn
by Joseph Mina

A rapidly growing number of health practitioners are now engaged in many different wellness modalities in an ever-expanding field of conscious activism. By contrast, just 50 years ago health/wellness practitioners were few and far between. Even the practice of yoga was out on the fringe. Yet progressive life always attracts more life. The desire to live and experience a more healthy, compassionate, enriched existence is inherently woven into the very essence of humanity.

Equally profound are rapid changes in related product realms. More and more people are choosing a healthier lifestyle through their purchasing choices. For example, the appearance of organic and vital foods are now found in mainstream supermarkets, healthier cosmetic and clothing products are in vogue, electric transportation is becoming the norm (Tesla now has the highest market capitalization in the auto industry), renewable energy generation is being embraced more and more by a heretofore fossil fuel industry, a strong uptick in personal growth activities now is underway. And there are many more examples too.

Progressive change is demonstrably gathering momentum: much like a snowball increasing in size and speed as it rolls down a hill. We have come a long way from the early1960's when the first appearance of health-related symptoms and diseases due to environmental stresses, such as population growth, unchecked pesticide/herbicide use etc. became vividly apparent.

Remember we are visitors on the Earth, yet stewards too. With archetypal Mars energy now moving into earthly Taurus until March 3rd, the dynamic energetic field is ripe for anything related to strengthening the human body, your core values, and your self-esteem (they're all connected). As such we now have a major opportunity to further harmonize our bodies with Gaia's planetary magic and co-create as a human race. To do otherwise leads us down a perilous path: one akin to fighting over table scraps while continuing to poison the very energetic field that allows us to exist and grow.

As shared earlier, this journey begins with the health of our physical body and the quality of life that results. Equally, and particularly on a global scale, each time you receive such nurturing care, you contribute your energetic experience to an evolving and vital global consciousness. Such energetic contribution further feeds the dynamics of everyone's growth and vitality.The result becomes exponential and unifying across the globe.

I will post in a few days my overview of the 2021 planetary cycles. Also, I am organizing a time later in the month for a free Zoom presentation about these very cycles and their implications for the year and decade ahead. As I live part of the year in a rural area of South Africa's Western Cape, internet speed here is slow. This makes video conferencing impossible. So one of two paths: either I find a location for the program with much better internet access for a video conference (my preference) or make it audio only. I'll know better within a week about what's possible.

As always, I am available for professional astrological consultation sessions. Scheduling is quite easy. Sessions are recorded (audio) via Skype or Zoom.

The script above Greece's Temple at Delphi reads "Know Thyself". Astrology is a compelling tool to explore the inner psyche and outer experiences. In a period of enormous change, this is the gift to yourself or others that keeps on giving.

May the coming year open you to greater, more enriched possibilities, enhance the inner gifts and talents you offer in service to the world, and add meaningful depth to your worldly experiences. May you find the inner strength to reorganize your life into a more integral flow in harmony with the ever increasing vibration of Gaia. May you create and strengthen the meaningful relationships in your life. May you prosper.

I welcome your comments below.

Sat Nam

Joseph Mina
January 8, 2021
Stellenbosch, South Africa

Solstice Day December 21 2020: Aquarian Ideals into Action

2020-12-21T15:56:00.001+02:00

"God will not be recognized as a person, but God will be recognized as a primal truth and energy. The worship will change from a personified God to a more subtle truth, energy. It will not be a solar energy or a lunar energy; it will be the creative energy which is known as cosmos."
Harbhajan Singh Khalsa (Yogi Bhajan) (1929-2004)

Beginnings by
Starman, Joseph Mina

At the Solstice today, we begin a new energetic cycle; perhaps an uncharted direction in the coming three years. The cosmic wheel moves another notch ushering a new vibration into the expanding consciousness of humanity. Old traditional ways are disappearing; some gently, others not so gently. Yet disappear they must to make way for the new. Such is the power of these highly changeable times. The turning of the wheel.

The first two decades of the 21st Century have been nothing short of transitional. Upheavals of traditions and structures, massive shifts and upgrades of technology, greater individual awareness of group consciousness, higher and expansive levels of collaboration, and a heightened sensitivity about the human role in this mystical elemental world represent strong telltale signs of bigger changes ahead in this decade.

Since 2000, there has been an approximate net increase in the world population of 1.7 billion. That's 1,700,000,000 in just 20 years. Early in 2021, the population will exceed 8 Billion. By contrast, just 200 years ago, the world population was estimated at 1 Billion (far less than added in the past 20 years!). This exponential growth continues to quicken adding unprecedented stress to the planet's eco-systems and the quality of life.

And with a rapidly increasing population a much greater awareness has emerged of our home planet and the Cosmos at large through developing technologies. Satellite and International Space Station observations and measurements provide us daily with a plethora of scientific information about the Earth, its weather and its geological changes.

From this expanding awareness we have come to realize this planet has an enormous ability to effect massive, rapid shifts in the energetic field in which we live (viruses, earth changes etc). And very importantly, the very warning bells of building environmental stress, which were sounded back in the 1960's, now rapidly capture the attention and inspire action from a far greater number of people.

Last week I wrote about the recent eclipsed New Moon and today's Solstice. If you haven't done so, I suggest you read (or listen) to that account before going further here.

At this Solstice moment and over the next few days (just after noon in South Africa; midnight in Hawaii; 5:02 am on the East Coast US; 7:02 pm in Japan, and 10:02 UT) we now pause and reflect on the coming season - winter for the north; summer for the southern hemisphere.

So much opportunity now exists in the energetic field of possibilities due to massive changes (mostly unexpected) over the course of this past year. The bigger question: how will we use such change to effect a more positive, engaging, inter-connected and collective connection in the coming days?

Stretching Into the New
by Starman Joseph Min

Many people today will join in global meditation events, which I consider wonderful. Always a good thing when people come together to participate in something of an uplifting experience. By contrast, some tout such meditation events will help raise the vibration of the Planet. This is a good place for 🤦🏻‍♂️🤦🏻‍♂️(double head slap). It seems to me a bit arrogant to think the human species has ever possessed the ability or capacity to raise the vibration of a planet over 4.5 Billion years old. Personally, I think Gaia knows exactly how to shift its vibration, something it has done over 6 major extinction events. If anything, such heightened human attention would be much better spent attuning to the frequency of the Earth; simply listening/sensing rather concerning ourselves with how the Earth vibrates.

The Solstice chart for the coming season, as described in my previous blog, ushers in a new wave. Expansive Jupiter and structured Saturn coming together at the 0° point of Aquarius (closest they have been visibly seen in over 800 years) is telling, pointing to the potential for a much greater Aquarian existence over the next 20 years or so. And of course, Uranus, Aquarius' modern ruler, now transiting through Earth sign Taurus, will create strong squares with Jupiter and Saturn over the coming months to help reorganize/realign/further attune our own physical human vibration to the Earth's frequency.

In that spirit, and despite everything we think we know about humanity and its evolution, the Earth and its natural energetic field, the Solar System inter-relationships, and the Cosmos at large, the grand design of the Universe will readily show us how much we don't know in the coming days. That's how we grow. That's the essence of Uranus' transit in Taurus as we attune in new ways to the Earth's vibration and our own physical bodies.

Hence, pay attention. Immerse yourself in the natural world. Take steps to protect the Earth's eco-systems, eg contact your elected officials, join an Earth-centric group, actively engage in environmental causes etc.

On a personal level, becoming an empty vessel would be a good start. Seems the Earth has a lot to teach us if we pay attention and listen to its messages expressed through the land and its animal denizens.

Uranus' recent epic transit through Aries between 2010 and early 2019 with its 5 direct squares to Pluto in Capricorn was the catalytic seeding point for everything Uranian that follows in Taurus (now), Gemini (2025), Cancer (2032) etc. Remember, Uranus brings lightning quick changes in wholly unexpected (out of the blue) ways. For example, on the very day (March 11, 2011) Uranus reentered Aries after a quick revisit to Pisces, a massive 9+ earthquake and resultant tsunami struck Japan affecting the entire Pacific Rim. Talk about a sounding "pay attention" bell!

And even more pertinent to this now moment, earlier today, just before the actual Solstice moment, Kilauea Crater on the Big Island of Hawaii (site of massive eruptions in 2018) reawakened from its long slumber. That's another Uranian-Taurus moment; a sounding bell!

With all that said, "expect nothing, be prepared for anything" as we move through the coming months. Uranus in Taurus encourages us to realign with the Earth's and our very own physical body's vibration, more so from an Aquarian viewpoint. That progressive wave literally means cleansing, strengthening and upgrading our physical body's core in collaboration with others. More recent versions of energetic body modalities align more with group approaches (Aquarius) rather than singular private ones. And in that vein, such expanded field of collective energy exhibits much more powerful entraining responses and shifts. That process will continue to further evolve and expand during Uranus' Taurus transit through 2025.

Suggested focus for the Solstice vibration:

Crescent Moon and Jupiter/Saturn
by Joseph Mina Dec 17 2020

1. Witness the pairing of Jupiter/Saturn in the western sky 30 minutes or so after sunset. As the days unfold, this pairing will grow apart and by January be lost in the glare of the Sun. "As above, so below", deeply breathe in the photons of light emanating from this pair into your body's core. Receive its messages.

2. Receive bodywork (energy attunement, craniosacral, chiropractic (I suggest Network Spinal), acupuncture, massage, group yoga etc. especially in this pandemic time. If you haven't done so, make this part of your routine. This is a much more energized, energy rich way to strengthen your body against virus spread than any man-made medical approach such as vaccines. Think progressively!

3. Follow an Earth-centric ritual to honor the seasonal change. Create a progressive intention for how you want to participate with others in the coming days.

4. For those in more temperate climes, plant a tree, shrub etc. as your contribution to the natural world.

Life Path Astrology Consultations - embracing the new: As 2021 rapidly nears, deepen your understanding of your natal birth chart along with a look ahead to 2021 and how to best navigate the planetary cycles of the new year. I am available for private one-to-one consultation sessions via Skype or Zoom (audio recorded).

Gift certificates for family and friends are available too!

Conclusion: Although the coming planetary archetypal cycles are intense, I feel excited to witness and actively participate in such enormous planetary change. Although the coming few weeks may prove unsettling as Mars completes its retrograde-square cycle with Pluto in Capricorn (previous blog), related events will highlight what is coming to an end and what is beginning. Bless it all and let it go. This is a time to transcend the rhetoric of fear and embrace a more progressive way for attuning to the Earth, its natural world denizens, and our fellow humans.

One last note: the other day I was sorting through saved files I had on an external computer drive. Together in one folder I found the movies Avatar and The Matrix (part 1). Each very similar to the other: about transcending the apparent to immerse into the real. Given what I have witnessed over the past 9 months, their reappearance to my awareness is so timely; their messages more pertinent than ever. Glad I can share such with a much wider audience.

Please leave comments below.

Sat Nam

Starman, Joseph Mina
December 21, 2020
Stellenbosch, WC South Africa

2020 Sagittarius Total Solar Eclipse New Moon and the Coming Solstice: Phoenix Rising

2020-12-13T19:37:00.424+02:00

“Nations like stars, are entitled to eclipse. All is well, provided the light returns and the eclipse does not become endless night. Dawn and resurrection are synonymous. The reappearance of the light is the same as the survival of the soul.”
Victor Hugo - French poet, novelist and dramatist of the Romantic movement (1802-1885)

“We cannot solve our problems with the same thinking we used when we created them.”

Albert Einstein - Theoretical Physicist (1879-1955)

Greetings from late Spring and the Western Cape of South Africa.

For anyone who prefers to listen to an audio version of this update, you can listen on-line here.

I recently entered South Africa thanks to the South African government easing international-travelers border restrictions in November. Nonetheless, strict pandemic protocols remain here for border entry and for social interaction. Despite these hurdles, I’m very happy to return to warmer weather and the beauty of South Africa’s natural world.

Perhaps on the minds of many people is a sentiment about the coming end of 2020 and hope for better days in 2021. While that January 1st cross-over date is a product of western-society’s human imagination and an oddly structured calendar, the heralded date represents a societal event triggering many hopes, dreams, commitments, beginnings and endings and a wide array of other cultural events. Remember last January 1 and your thoughts about 2020? Sure seems like years ago!

Yet on the astrological calendar and other oracle based systems, the coming Solstice represents one of the premier events of an astrological year. For this day signals the energetic shift from one season to another, as well as setting the tone/theme for the ensuing season.

This year, the run up to the Solstice and the new season is quite compelling, and not surprisingly, intense. This is already evident in current events.

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Life Path Astrology Consultations: As 2021 rapidly nears, deepen your understanding of your natal birth chart along with a look ahead to 2021 and how to best navigate the planetary cycles of the new year. I am available for private one-to-one consultation sessions via Skype or Zoom (audio recorded). Gift certificates for family and friends are available too!

___________

We begin with December 14th and the New Moon in the fire sign of Sagittarius the Archer. Timing: occurs in South Africa at 6:16 pm; East Coast US at 11:16 am, 8:16a on the West Coast, and on the 22nd in Western Australia east to the International Date Line. As always, everyone will experience this event in the same moment. This the last New Moon of the current season. It also occurs near the South Lunar Nodal point in Sagittarius, triggering the only total solar eclipse of 2020.

The eclipse track starts in the eastern part of the South Pacific, passes over parts of Chile and Argentina before ending at sunset near the coasts of Namibia/Southern Africa. This potent visual will be available on line. While having nowhere near the same energetic impact as witnessing this grand spectacle live, seeing it through the medium of the internet does connect you more tangibly to the “as above, so below” mysteries that are an intrinsic mystical glue in the Universe. Here in the western part of South Africa, the sun will be 60% eclipsed at sunset. Of the many sky events I have witnessed, never before have I seen a setting eclipsed Sun. I’ll post a pic on my Instagram account on Tuesday.

A total solar eclipse is a strong harbinger of coming events. It signals an introspective and reflective period over the next few months, as well as placing a strong emphasis on that lunation’s overall theme. Also, it's not uncommon for strong earth changes such as storms, volcanic eruptions, earthquakes etc. to occur during the two weeks after a total solar eclipse. Before I get to specifics about the New Moon and coming Solstice, I want to direct my focus to…

The completion of Mars' retrograde cycle in its home sign of Aries (a rare retrograde placement for Mars). As Mars slowly transits from its station direct point of November 13th (just a month ago, although it sure seems longer!!), it now creates once again strong angular aspects to Jupiter, Saturn and Pluto. This cycle has unsurprisingly proven to be quite the intense period of change and limitation. And equally, it's one of the more profound cycles I have tracked on a global, social and personal level since Pluto entered Capricorn 12 years ago.

To avoid going over the very same ground about the planetary patterns involving Mars, Jupiter, Saturn and Pluto I covered in earlier blogs, I encourage you to reread my blog of July 21st, especially the part about Mars’ retrograde and the coming together of the outer planets. Much of what I shared there has come to pass. Yet amazingly, the most intense phase of this pent up retrograde energy is about to occur over the next 3 weeks.

Intense times requires introspection, measured responses, clarity of purpose and courage. It’s a profound time of growth, uneasiness, determination, and a willingness to re-attune/realign with your soul’s calling and your defined life path as set out in your natal chart.

Which brings me to the current moment: on November 29th, Mars, ever so slowly coming out of its retrograde, began an expanding closing square with Pluto, Jupiter and Saturn (think of a tightening vice). That building energy now continues to intensity through this New Moon eclipse while increasing more so as the Solstice nears a week later. In short, just as a weather forecast tells you a storm is brewing, expect turbulent times over the next few weeks.

On the Solstice, Mars in Aries will reach an exact square with Pluto in Capricorn (it’s third and last square since early August). This intensity continues until Mars leaves its home sign for earthly Taurus on January 7th. Donald Trump’s difficult Saturn/Venus natal conjunction in the sign of Cancer has been heavily aspected by this melt-down effect. His response/actions to this intensity speaks for itself - sort of swinging at shadows in a dimly lit room.

Because the Mars/Pluto focus here is the very awkward exchange between Aries (starting something new, achievement, assertive, aggressive) and Capricorn (politics, law, rules, organization, business), this particular square dynamic further sharpens the contrast or critical tension between these two forces. Add a strong Neptune sextile to Pluto from the realm of Pisces, and confusion about facts and reality itself can abound. For example, the wide array of assertions about the US elections and alleged fraud that now dominate the news cycles are a product of this mix. Remember too, Mercury stationed direct exactly on the US election day. Ergo, never underestimate the Universe's propensity to change the course of plans, organizations, structures and initiatives.

When Pluto entered Capricorn in 2008, it signaled the beginning of a massive shift from the Capricorn-based Industrial Revolution to a more Aquarian-type reality. Yet, that shift doesn’t happen in one moment. There’s a process that unfolds over time. For example, in 1776, the American Revolution occurred as Pluto positioned at the very end degrees of Capricorn. In 1777, Pluto moved into Aquarius. 12 years later, the French Revolution occurred. As with the birth of any progressive or social movement signaling great change, there exist strong social adjustments in the human element whose combined actions are quite unpredictable. We are in that era of strong unscripted adjustments, which will continue well into the next decade.

Pluto-type transformative purges begin by demonstrating what exactly will change. In 2008 the great economic collapse occurred. It was also the year Barrack Obama was elected US President. Such events are symbols of the old Capricorn and the new Aquarius rather than the structure itself or even the person exemplifying the new wave.

The next phase of a Pluto-type transformation is expansion, contraction, expansion etc, much like a bubble growing in size, bursting, then increasing again. We witness that today in the world stock markets. Everyone knows the bubble will eventually pop when it reaches a critical tension point. The bigger and more ambiguous question is “when?”.

Current events on a global scale reflect the continued eventual implosion of all things “old Capricorn”, making way for a very different world. Some call it the coming of the Age of Aquarius. But doing so widely misses the mark.

Archetypal Pluto’s ingress into Aquarius (in part 2023/fully 2024) brings a lot of power into the water-bearer sign. I think it is a huge fallacy to believe such a period represents the grand merging of the collective into some utopian age (similar to beliefs shared back at December 12, 2012). Rather, the broader Aquarius themes of social justice, social equality, technology, progressive thinking etc. are the hot-button topics that will become more intense because of archetypal Pluto’s influence starting in 2023, Aquarius' rulers Uranus in Taurus through 2025, Saturn in Aquarius through 2023, and Jupiter in Aquarius in 2021.

Remember, Pluto dynamics fuel a purging and eventual transformation of any individual's life at a personal, social and generational level into something unexpected and upgraded. It's akin to the Phoenix rising from the ashes in a wholly new and unanticipated form. Importantly, younger generations (born after the mid-90’s when Uranus entered its home sign of Aquarius) are energetically wired for these profound unfolding changes. And the expression of their collective energy will be an inherent part of these shifts. This is evident already in the actions of teens and young adults, such as 17 year old climate activist Greta Thunberg in Finland. And there are many more like her in this generational range.

At this moment, I think it somewhat speculative to predict how current events will unfold over the coming weeks and into the season ahead. However, if the current US Presidential legal and political challenges, England and the European Union’s Brexit woes, world economic headwinds, an awakening China, global social unrest, spectacular technological achievements, the pandemic resurgence around the globe as well as the rush to provide a vaccine are any indication, these trends and related other events will continue to be a significant focus over at least the next three to six months due to the New Moon’s eclipse influence. More so, these trends will set the stage for Pluto’s final passage in Capricorn in 2023 and what is to unfold during Pluto’s passage in Aquarius through 2043.

Lastly, on January 2nd, Mars leaves the retrograde shadow it entered on July 25th, which should further free up the stagnant/restrained energy that has been part of the retrograde cycle for the past 5 months. How will society utilize this pent up energy remains to be seen.

On a personal level, what have you learned, or discovered about yourself over that period? For me, it has been a deepening of trust, allowing, and a willingness to move where the energy feels most fluid and engaging.

That Mars will soon enter Taurus indicates its Aries retrograde learning will be best applied to the Taurus qualities of self esteem, what you value, possessions, money and the physical strength of the human body. The 5-month retrograde period represents a foundation for such focus. Yes, 2020 has been stressful, yet it has abruptly stopped the world society in its tracks to ponder what type of future we want to create, especially one in harmony with the planet’s natural forces and environment. And most especially, this stopage poses the question about what are we willing to do as a world society to effect such massive change in our life styles.

With all that said…

this coming eclipsed New Moon occurs in fiery Sagittarius, positioning near Galactic Center and Mercury and in square to Neptune in Pisces. Sagittarius quests for the truth. Its shadow influence in square to Neptune creates a stark yet nebulous contrast between what is actually fact as a basis for truth (Sagittarius’ quest) versus what is conspiracy-driven illusions and deceptions (Neptune’s shadow foray). That Mercury positions in the glare of the Sun and in square to Neptune indicates clear communication is strongly challenged in the coming days. Further, this dichotomy occurs against the backdrop of the aforementioned closing square between Mars, Jupiter, Saturn and Pluto. These combinations set the stage for…
the Solstice arriving on the 21st at just past noon in South Africa; 5:02 am on the East Coast US, 2:02 am on the US West Coast, and 10:02 GMT. In addition to Mars/Pluto square, both Sun and Mercury position at 0° of Capricorn, and Jupiter and Saturn at 0° of Aquarius. Here, effective communication is challenged in the coming days due to Mercury’s superior conjunction with the Sun. Further, Venus in Sagittarius finds renewed individuated, fearless strength in its trine to Chiron (healing) in Aries. At the New Moon Venus positioned at the very end degrees of Scorpio. She now brings that Plutonian quality into her Sagittarian quest for truth regardless of the consequences. Lastly, the Moon in Pisces at first quarter, creates a direct sextile to Pluto while in square to the previous eclipsed New Moon. These aspects bring a renewed focus to the plight of humanities less fortunate, and an urgent need to find greater compassion through strength with our fellow humans. It also is a portal for connecting with your soul essence (Neptune) through quiet, meditative time. As an overall theme, this Solstice period raises the bar for steps society must take to become more humanistic, compassionate and inclusive in the coming years. And to further clarify this Solstice theme, the “as above, so below visual” of…
Saturn/Jupiter nearly merging visually in the western sky after sunset on the Solstice (as close as they have been (1/10°) since the 1600’s) stands as a moving symbol for the days ahead. Given Saturn’s much dimmer appearance (due to its significantly greater distance beyond Jupiter), you will probably need binoculars to appreciate the apparent closeness of these two planets. Also visually, this will not be a “Star of Bethlehem moment” as some have suggested. Even combined, Jupiter/Saturn’s brightness will not come close to say Venus’ usual brightness. Also look for the waxing crescent Moon to create a tight triangle with this duo on the 17th adding a lot of emotional energy to the day. Energetically, this combination of Saturn/Jupiter...
immediately triggers a strong square with out-of-the-blue, lightning-bolt like Uranus (ruler of Aquarius) in Taurus. From an astrological perspective, that square cycle portends strong Earth changes (Taurus) possibly involving climate and/or solar dynamics, and a heightened Aquarius focus (Jupiter expands) towards current social inequities around the globe. In that regard it helps to look back a bit when…
Saturn entered Aquarius for 3 months this past March and created a square dynamic with Uranus without expansive Jupiter in the mix. That period was a time of global social demonstrations unlike anything seen since the mid-to-late 1960’s and the Virgo conjunction of Uranus/Pluto. The unified power of the people brought a defining focus to issues of self-worth, values, social justice and equality as well as a fair degree of mayhem. The coming period of reigniting that flame represents a strong indicator of what to expect in general from Saturn’s Aquarius transit through March 2023. Given Jupiter’s expansive energy joining this cycle in its initial stages, and in square to Uranus, strong shifts and some upheaval in 2021 are strong possibilities. And in all respects remember…
specific astrological events, such as Saturn/Jupiter combined ingress into Aquarius on the Solstice, are not islands unto themselves. Astrology is an understanding of the entire picture that involves all the component parts of the astrological realm woven into broad and grand themes whether it is an event such as a lunation or solstice etc., or your own natal chart. Focusing on just one aspect instead of the whole is akin to telling someone you are a Libra because you were born when the Sun was transiting that sign. By saying such, you are literally ignoring the overall essence and life path you were born to experience and share with the world through your gifts and talents.

Eclipsed New Moon design by
Joseph Mina

Reflection Suggestions for the New Moon and Solstice periods:

- What do I want to create in the coming season that aligns with my deeper soul intentions?

- What do I most value in life, and how do I want to express those values in the coming days?

- How can I strengthen my body-core energies now into 2021 to better align with the Earth's rapidly changing vibration?

- And for parents raising children, how can I help my child do the same?

Conclusion: When I set out to write this blog, I intended to keep it short. Ha! But quickly, I realized that the complexity of the current transits required a more detailed explanation: a shortened version would simply not make sense. And while I would like to write about an expansive, uplifting focus for the coming year, the current planetary cycles, just like a year ago, simply do not support such a perspective. Rather, the coming twelve months are much more of a reorganizational and reevaluation phase as we move further from the intensity of Jupiter/Saturn/Pluto in Capricorn. Nonetheless, important growth, meaningful choices and a call to purposeful service await in the coming year. In that respect, I encourage you to make worthwhile commitments at the Solstice for the coming season and beyond. This is the time for which we have been born. May we serve the highest purpose of all concerned.

And in the spirit of service, patriot and retired Brigadier General Chuck Yeager, who was the first pilot to break the sound barrier in level flight and set a world speed record in flight, died on December 7 at the age of 97. His courage to face adversity in flight is renowned. When confronted with death as his jet shook relentlessly nearing the sound barrier, he increased his speed with the words "throttle up". The rest is history. With his Mars in Aries, and an Aquarian Sun and Moon, he certainly had the energetic right stuff to go beyond the barriers presented by the Earth's physical elements. May this galactic warrior serve in new and creative ways in his next assignment. RIP.

I welcome your comments below.

Many blessings for this holiday season.

Sat Nam

Starman, Joseph Mina

December 13, 2020

Stellenbosch, South Africa

Scorpio New Moon: Mars stations direct unleashing the beast

2020-11-15T00:02:00.495+02:00

“You must have chaos within you to give birth to a dancing star.”
Friedrich Nietzsche - Philosopher, Composer, Poet, and Philologist (1844-1900)

“It can be a cruel and random world, but the chaos is all so beautiful.”
Hiromu Arakawa - Japanese Manga Artist - (1973 -

"Moving into higher vibrations requires more energy. It is essential in the 21st Century the biofield (physical body) has sufficient energetic resources to serve as a strong foundation for higher energetic thoughts and connection to one's soul essence."
Donnie Epstein, Founder of Network Spinal (1953 - )

Greetings from the East Coast, United States near Philadelphia

Destination Anywhere and Everywhere
Chicago O'Hare Airport - Terminal 1 passenger tunnel
by Joseph Mina Oct 2020

Perhaps one of the quotes to start this blog should have been "the best laid plans of mice and men....": a theme quite emblematic for 2020. Yet with any small or significant change, chaos or confusion is a prime ingredient and activator for something new; something different; and perhaps something game changing or ground breaking. And that requires energy. A lot of it.

At this Scorpio New Moon the focus shifts to life force, the very fuel we call energy.

New Moon arrives on the 15th shortly after midnight on the East Coast, US; 5:09 UTC. Any time zone to the west of EST to the International Date Line registers the New Moon on the 14th. The New Moon theme set out below is expressed over the coming two weeks.

The water sign of Scorpio focuses on the deepest depths of human interactions. Its qualities includes shared resources, trust, intimacy, and death/rebirth. And not surprisingly, its energy pattern is fueled by life force; that vital vibration that inspires, animates, incites and motivates us.

This is the 4th and last perigee Moon (Super Moon) of 2020, and hence arrives with added energy (as if we needed more)! However, as this New Moon in Scorpio follows the Taurus Full Moon of late October, it further activates the theme of that Full Moon. But before I explain that part, know the switch from "New Moon preceding Full Moon" to "Full Moon preceding New Moon" began in August and continues now until next August when the bigger lunation cycle switches back to Full follows New.

At this New Moon, the recent Taurus Full Moon theme emphasizes Uranian-type changes (surprising/unexpected/out-of-the-blue/progressive) in the Earth's vibration along with our connected physical body to this greater paradigm, eg the shock of the Corona Virus. It also points to the importance of integrity in our relationships with others. This theme influence remains in effect until later January. It's then Mars finally leaves Aries for Taurus (6th) leading to a conjunction with Uranus on the 20th in square to Jupiter/Saturn in Aquarius. I'll write about that meeting in January. And speaking of potent Mars....

Yesterday, archetypal Mars stationed direct motion after what seemed like an eternal retrograde. At either station retrograde or direct, planetary energy stalls and intensifies (think of a pressure cooker). Then ever so slowly, the motion resumes in the opposite direction e.g. the swinging of a pendulum.

Most Mars retrogrades (every 30 months or so) are periods of constrained or limited energy, which is the reversal of archetypal Mars' normal energy expression. If you are feeling constrained of late, this Mars cycle may be quite active in your natal chart.

Typically, a Mars energetic vibe likes to be assertive, bold, courageous, determined etc. in alignment with the qualities of the astrological sign it transits. Yet, Mars' retrograde period is the very antithesis of these typical qualities. Here, its energetic expression becomes an internal pause, a time of reflection and reorganizational period before the big exhale begins anew with forward movement. Yesterday marks the start of that big exhale (rather slowly at first), and as mentioned above will be in play through at least early to mid January.

This particular Mars retrograde though has been quite unique for a few reasons:

1. Home Sign: Mars stationed retrograde in its home sign of assertive, bold, courageous, impulsive Aries back in September. Such happens infrequently in Mars' home sign (last cycles in Aries were in 1941 and 1988). Anytime a planet transits its home sign the energy of that sign becomes further amplified. At the Taurus Full Moon, 4 planets (Saturn, Mars, Venus and Mars) were transiting their home sign. It's no wonder late October into early November felt so intense. Further, a retrograde in that sign triggers even greater intensity due to the protracted time of the transit. In Mars case its retrograde period spans June 27, 2020, when it entered Aries to Jan 6 2021, when it leaves Aries for Taurus.
2. Visually Bright: In the sky story, this year's opposition in early October was the second brightest visual of Mars since 2003 (2018's was slightly brighter). Mars won't be this bright again until 2035. It's brilliant ruddy color transiting the night sky was a memorable sight, rivaling only Venus and the Moon in its luminance.
3. Continuation: The last Mars retrograde in 2018 in late June>August started in progressive Aquarius back into late Capricorn. In the US, this augured the progressive (Aquarius) blue wave evident in the subsequent 2018 November elections and its focus on dismantling/melting down Capricorn's outdated rules, structure, politics and business for a more progressive agenda.
4. Intensity: This Mars Retrograde began in late degrees Aries and began in square to its 2018 station direct position in Capricorn. Events over the past two months fueled by a pandemic that won't let up, a very intense election cycle in the US (future vs past), along with a protracted dispute about election integrity/fraud speak to the strong energetic restraint at the moment around new opportunities, forward progress and initiatives that are progressively envisioned.

As an experiment for future media endeavors, I created a video about the Taurus Full Moon with the assistance of my friend Cara Reynolds from Vancouver, Canada. Alas, with every intention to release the video in late October, I encountered unanticipated computer processing problems (no surprise there 😉). Further, a spontaneously planned week in the Sun at the New Jersey shore in early November (it was heavenly) put a big temporary dent in any remaining initiative I had to finish this project (Mars and Mercury retrograde were seeing to it!). Hence, it's only now that I am releasing the video. Nonetheless, its content about the Taurus Full Moon is quite pertinent to current events and what lies ahead in the coming weeks. Have a watch here:

Great changes present great opportunities. My personal astrological counseling session is designed to help you create meaningful strategies for adapting and shifting with the current planetary cycles. Schedule your appointment today via this link.

Back to the Scorpio New Moon

The Sensor,
Voyager Tarot
James Wanless, PhD

Other dynamic aspects of this New Moon vibration over the next two weeks include:

1. Venus in Libra in direct square to Jupiter/Pluto and close square to Saturn in Capricorn. This signals a time to reflect on personal, work, and friend relationships (Libra) and whether they are in alignment with your evolving self. This represents one of the Taurus Full Moon themes too.

2. Sun/Moon in Scorpio create a 60 degree sextile with Jupiter/Pluto/Saturn in Capricorn and a trine to Neptune in Pisces further intensifying that on-going trio's influence on melting down/altering all things Capricorn (rules, structure, politics, governance, business), and all things hidden, e.g. viral (Neptune in Pisces).

3. Mercury in Scorpio (soon leaving its retrograde shadow on Nov 19) opposite Uranus in Taurus speaks to more information from the depths (Scorpio) unexpectedly coming to the fore about on-going earth and physical body changes, including virus information.

Reflection suggestions for this New Moon:

1. What does my physical body want me to know?
2. How can I strengthen my physical body?
3. Are there relationships in my life that no longer align with my values and desires? If so, what steps am I ready to take to create meaningful change or even closure?
4. Now is a potent time to reflect on 2021 and what you would like to manifest/create based on your 2020 experiences to date. Vision board is one type of medium. Be creative here. Let your passion be your guide.

Coming personal and business changes:

Core Activation
design by Joseph Mina
and Alaya Rousseau

I expect to return to South Africa in early December where summer awaits me. And in this moment inTolkien's words "and wither then I cannot say". Much depends on how the bigger societal picture evolves, especially relative to national border policies, social distancing, and economic flow.

Further, this blog entry represents the last one at this blogger page along with its related archives dating back to 2007. I am beginning a new Starman Astrology blog page under the name of my new web site: Core Activation. In turn, come early 2021 that blog page will switch from Google's Blogger to Word Press to coincide with the debut of my new web site.

Conclusion:

I welcome your comments below.

The coming two United States Senate elections in the state of Georgia occur on

Phoenix Rising

January 5th, just 3 days after Mars leaves its retrograde shadow and a day before it enters Taurus. The theme for that January 5 chart points to an opportunity for significant change. If the Democratic party were to win both races, they would be the majority party in both houses of the US Congress. Such a change would have wide implications that go well beyond the US borders. As with anything, progressive change requires progressive action and more energy than usual. As its counter-point, apathy fuels a continuation of the status quo. The choice is ours and ours alone.

If anything has been learned from the 2020 pandemic, doing nothing is no longer a viable option. Regardless of who you voted for, the record vote turnout in the recent US elections points to a much more engaged country populace than ever seen before. The same holds true for many other countries in the world. And in my opinion, that's a good thing. Power to the people!

As Jupiter (19th) and Saturn (17th) begin moving from Capricorn towards their Aquarius ingress in mid-December, further emphasis on progressive ideas and initiatives will continue to increase and strengthen. In that vein, the traditional world we once knew, the day-to-day social interaction/functions, and traditional global alliances are rapidly changing. In fact, huge social changes being seeded currently will become more and more evident as Pluto completes its epic 15 year transit of Capricorn in 2023.

Remember, it's been only 28 years since the use of personal computers and cell phones began to spread through the general public. Amazingly, children born at that time (now going through their first Saturn Return!) through the present have little, if any understanding of the world that existed in the 1980's and prior. Their world of social media, progressive ideals, and gender equality and acceptance is what is most important to many now in their teens and twenty's. And in that way, the Universe through the endless march of generations has shown us the potential future for a more progressive, interconnected and viable world society.

Is humanity ready to make such a significant leap? Younger generations have readily said YES! And therein lies the future. There's really no going back. In the courageous words of Chuck Yeager back in 1947, he uttered "throttle up" when facing potential air disaster while attempting to break the sound barrier for the first time. At that critical moment his aircraft shook violently, then passed into silence as he moved through that barrier. Previous attempts by others to exceed the speed of sound all came to the same extreme oscillating moment, and they all pulled back. Death was usually the result. Quite telling. Now retired General Yeager knew in that moment what had not worked (pulling back). His only option was to "throttle up".

This is such a telling lesson for those taking leaps of faith along the life path. In times of growth and significant change, courage, determination and trust always surpass safety and stability. Throttle Up!

Next update in December: December Solstice and a look at 2021.

Sat Nam

Starman, Joseph Mina
Malvern, Pennsylvania USA
November 14, 2020

Coronavirus Round 2: Cancer New Moon and the coming surge

2020-07-21T16:28:00.003+02:00

"Life's under no obligation to give us what we expect"

-- Margaret Mitchell, author (1900-49)

Life Path Astrology Consultations:

For anyone ready to explore in greater depth the unique dynamics of their natal chart, or for previous clients ready to update their chart for the current planetary transits, private one-to-one sessions with me via Skype or Zoom (audio recorded) are available. Gift certificates too!

Great change presents great opportunity. My personal astrological counseling session is designed to help you create meaningful strategies for adapting and shifting with the current planetary changes. You can schedule on-line by going to this link where you can access my appointment calendar. I’ll be available for session work beginning in August.

Greetings from Ocean City, New Jersey!

I thought I would complete this blog prior to the New Moon. So much for my plans. Regardless, below is a good summary of the current energy dynamics, what to expect in the coming days and some suggestions for reflection. Read on....

The hot days of summer have arrived on the United States East Coast, and I'm very glad to be near the ocean. The second consecutive New Moon in Cancer (first Cancer New Moon occurred on the solstice in June) arrived on the 20th at 1:32 pm EDT (on the 21st from Southeast Asia east to the International Date Line). As with the Cancer New Moon this past solstice, the New Moon vibration carries added significance. Why? Because it's 2020 [humor intended]. Here's my perspective.

The sign of Cancer brings our awareness to your personal life, your family and even extended family, and community-at-large. Opposite earthly Capricorn, archetypal Cancer imbues the field with encouragement to create a more nurturing and connective reality. As a watery (emotional) sign, it stands at the front of the line when it comes to helping others in need. At this lunation, the Sun/Moon position occurs almost at the very end degree of Cancer, providing the opportunity to focus on the personal, family and community related lessons learned/experienced over the past 28-29 days of the lunar cycle. That cycle included a solar (solstice) and lunar eclipse, and Venus and Mercury retrogrades. Hence, its collective vibration serves as a strong foundational platform for the remainder of 2020.

Most people love a good story with a happy ending. Our fairy tales are filled with positive endings. We not only rely on such, but expect "they lived happily ever after" outcomes too. With that said, back in December I gave a few astrology talks about what to expect in 2020. Attendees wanted to know what lay ahead for such a powerful numbered year. Yet, true to my astrological roots, I didn't sugar coat my words. In each talk, I spoke about the intensity of the coming planetary cycles starting at the December Solstice and being prominent for all of 2020. In other words 2020 would prove powerfully intense in a yet-to-be-defined way affecting all aspects of humanity. How's that for a contra-happy ending!

Yet, given Jupiter's recent optimistic 2019 transit through its home sign of Sagittarius, the feedback from some in my audiences didn't take to my message, but preferred to remain optimistic about the unfolding New Year (didn't 2020 have a nice ring to it?). To say the least, my message wasn't high up on the favorite festival story of the month chart.

Yet, the tone of what I shared then as now actually is rather practical, pragmatic and a tip of the hat to upside potential, i.e. we need to prepare for a very different world emerging over the next nine or so years. And part of that preparation is a major overhaul or reorganization of the very structures that make humanity tick. Why? Because there are very (underscored) intense astrological patterns now weaving their way concurrently through the consciousness that reflect themes of upheaval, surrender, oppression and transformation.

And yet, there can actually be a very positive ending and new beginning to it all. Attaining such will require hard work, courage, determination to strengthen oneself, a willingness to look deeply within and some Universal luck.

While current societal structures have worked to some degree in the 20th and earlier centuries depending on affluence, the 21st century has become a wholly different reality. Advanced technological wonders such as robotics, computers, digital currency, massive social media platforms, instantaneous communication and instant access to content represent the new structural pillars serving a rapidly evolving world.

Chicago City Maze by Joseph Mina

Also, and most importantly, an unprecedented heightened awareness of human society, including all its deep scaring blemishes from times past now emerge for all to see (Neptune in Pisces/Pluto in Capricorn).

The unfolding big planetary transits of 2020 into 2021 point to an essential introspection period (current circumstances) in order to address issues such as systemic racism, climate change, immigration between nations, poverty vs disproportionate wealth, health care, political discord, intensive farming practices, unbalanced commerce and social inequality that are causing great damage to the physical elemental state and balance of the planet's ecosystems.

And therein lies our opportunity for healing and reorganizing on a personal, social and global scale a more connective world for current and future generations. Mind you, this human endeavor is occurring at a time when the speed and dissemination of information, as well as perception of time, is rapidly accelerating. And it can be exhausting at times!

With that as a backdrop, here's the details of this New Moon lunation.

This New Moon theme continues the 2020 pattern of major challenges as Saturn along with Pluto and Jupiter in Capricorn strongly oppose this New Moon's vibe. And of course, since it's 2020, an unexpected brightening of a comet has recently become part of the sky story I guess to put an exclamation mark on what is now unfolding.

Visible comets (they occur very infrequently: last one was Southern Hemisphere Comet McNaught in 2006, are symbolic signs of unfolding powerful change. Given this year's upheaval, this particular comet not only underscores 2020's chaos, but also becomes a herald signaling greater change to come over the next 3 years.

Comet Neowise

As I mentioned in my Solstice blog entry, the second half of 2020 is loaded with a surge of planetary retrogrades. Usually, at any given time, 1 to 3 planets are in retrograde. Not this year (of course). Anywhere between 5 and 7 retrogrades will now be in play through December. From a geocentric perspective, this forward/back/forward planetary motion in the sky story symbolically implies a strong or heightened pull back or introspection individually and collectively to reflect, reorganize, regenerate etc. aspects of your personal, social and global connections and integral structures (rules, traditions etc).

Given the added intensity of so many retrogrades (there are 6 at this New Moon), a very introspective energy now builds across the human consciousness. So if you are feeling inward, or seemingly lack the motivation to manifest or create something new, look no further than this juggernaut of inward energy. Here, surrender to a higher source may be the best strategy, i.e. let the energy reveal itself rather than attempting to define it.

On the external, more evidence of this slow down is seen by renewed lockdown restrictions now being imposed due to increased virus spread throughout the United States and other parts of the world. Personally, given the current planetary cycles, I would not be surprised if the spread of COVID continues through the end of the year. So let's have a look at the New Moon chart:

As you can see from the various energetic lines connecting various archetypes, this is quite a busy New Moon. What follows is my top 5 list from the above chart starting with...

Phoenix Rising

1. Saturn/Pluto/Jupiter in opposition to the New Moon. Saturn's in its challenging aspect points to the imposition of boundaries, limits, and restrictions affecting laws, rules, politics, organizations and business. In its expansive state it influences the creation of functional structures that organize our energetic flow as a society. From its recent 4-month ingress into the water-bearer sign of Aquarius, strong Aquarian themes of social justice and equality came to the fore around the globe leading to protest about systemic racism at every level of society. The police presence and its catalytic effect is a classic example of challenging Saturn cause/effect.

Now Saturn has returned to its home sign of Capricorn (early July) where it remains for its final and most intense pass through December 17 and fueled by its Aquarian transit. Remember, any planetary energy in its home sign amplifies the expression of that sign's energy. At this New Moon, Saturn in Capricorn, Neptune in Pisces and Mars in Aries all position in their respective home signs. That's a lot of potent fuel. And why not...it's 2020.

In the coming months, Saturn will once again create a near conjunction with Jupiter and Pluto (last was back in December to March) perhaps reenacting and reinforcing the potent dynamics of that time. And to add a very strong exclamation point, that trio will be further amplified (squared) by...

2. Retrograde Mars in Aries. Mars and Saturn are akin to the young brash and elder warriors, respectively (think Karate Kid movie). In its home sign of Aries, Mars energy is naturally relentless, impulsive, boundless and lacking the maturity to be responsible (that's Capricorn's job). It also possesses an enormous amount of kinetic energy to initiate massive shifts of energy in rapid fashion!

Mars' first of three squares with Saturn on August 24 (and a little earlier with Jupiter (8/4) and Pluto (8/13) too) ultimately fuels Mars with a new directive about its archetypal role in the coming years of this decade. Thus while Mars energy, especially in Aries, is quite the achiever, this coming retrograde in early September will put the brakes on any sense of forward progress at least through the end of the year. This vibration will become more and more noticeable as Mars soon enters its retrograde shadow on July 24th.

I must add here: outbreak of war is not uncommon during or after a Mars retrograde. That's not a prediction, just a reflection about how this retrograde transit has played out in the past. The alternative is to use Mars fuel to effect positive/constructive change. As always, the choice is ours.

In the political realm, Donald Trump's challenges will become even greater as his natal conjunction of Saturn/Venus in Cancer will be opposed by Saturn/Jupiter (once again) and Pluto and soon squared by Mars. That energetic surge represents significant once-in-a-lifetime headwinds adversely affecting his ability to control circumstances around him

Lastly, Mars, which ordinarily spends approximately 6 weeks transiting a sign, doesn't leave the shadow energy of the Aries retrograde until January 2, 2021 or over 5 months later! That's a very long time for this Aries energy to be bound/reined in. In short, expect the unexpected. It's not often Mars retrogrades in its home sign of Aries. Add the potent fuel of Saturn/Jupiter/Pluto to the Mars retrograde and we are headed for unchartered waters, especially in October and November and the US Presidential election.

This is an epic planetary cycle and one that will be long remembered for its yet to be revealed dynamics. If there were ever a time for inner clarity, focus, renewed purpose, determination, and a willingness to explore the heretofore unknowable as a prelude to a post-pandemic era around the globe, this is it! And of course no outcome, including any clear sense about the current pandemic, can be anticipated or predicted thanks to...

3. Neptune, which from its Pisces home perch not only creates a strong sextile (60 degrees of angle) with Jupiter/Saturn/Pluto, but completes its 3rd and final square with Venus and its June retrograde in Gemini (exact on July 27) . Remember, it was back in early April when Venus entered its retrograde shadow in early degrees of unpredictable Gemini. By early May the 1st of 3 squares with Neptune occurred just as the President and many Governors in the United States decided it was time to reclaim a normal flow and ignore potential spread of COVID-19.

Given the strong murky vibration of Venus square Neptune, such actions were ill-timed (imagine if leaders actually followed astrology chart dynamics when making decisions?) opened the door for the virus resurgence and spread we now see. Neptune energy dissolves ever so slowly, like water eroding metal, until nothing is left. Its influence is pervasive and lasting. Spawning a new wave of spirituality, imagery, music, connection to the natural world, and greater compassion for all is Neptune's primary mandate in the 21st Century. And with 6 more years to go before it enters Aries, the process of dissolving (surrender to a greater force) will only intensify.

Neptune's recent interaction (sextile) with Saturn/Jupiter and its long-term building sextile (into 2026) with Pluto's intense transformative vibe now fuels a huge well of uncertainty in a Western society used to a fair dose of day-to-day certainty and organization. Such uncertainty in part strongly impacts our traditional methods of communication, which is further underscored by the recently completed...

4. Mercury retrograde in Cancer and its strong influence upon the Cancer themes of personal, family and community life, as exemplified at this New Moon.

Mercury's recent retrograde began opposite to Saturn's 2019 retrograde station, and began direct motion last week in square to the current position of Chiron/Mars in Aries. These are major lessons about the workings of cause/effect. Understand too a retrograde pattern doesn't really end ("when will Mercury retrograde be over?" is a common question I hear). Rather the intense effect of any retrograde eases up as the motion regains its forward speed. Hence, the collective experience of any retrograde transit adds to an ever evolving conversation around our human evolution, while rebuilding its tension pattern for its next retrograde phase.

As far as lessons learned from the recent Mercury retrograde, the buildup to the next Mercury Retrograde come this mid-October (in Scorpio) will be fueled by the various Cancer themes brought to your awareness in July. And that leads me to...

5. Uranus in Taurus and the ultimate conundrum of human society on Planet Earth. The energy of archetypal Uranus (ruler of Aquarius) is catalytic, lightning quick and usually out-of-the-blue. The current built up of this rocket fuel comes from the epic eight squares between Uranus and Pluto between 2011-15. The power of this vibration will literally bring us to social collapse, or usher us into utopia within the next 10 years.

Earthly Taurus in part points to our connection to the Earth and its natural beauty and denizens. It also mirrors the natural world's function, which includes your physical body. Since May 2018 Uranus has brought its surprising/unsettling intense vibe into that natural world cauldron, creating breakthroughs as well as unusual health challenges.

By 2025-26, Uranus and Neptune will create a sextile at the very end degrees of Taurus and Pisces, providing a strong guide for the evolving state of planet Earth. At that time, Pluto will be firmly placed in Aquarius, Saturn will be beginning its Aries transit alongside Neptune, and Jupiter will be in early degrees Cancer. That's a lot of expansive air and fire energy, which will prove either highly combustible or highly energizing.

Beyond the current pandemic, if there were ever a reason to further strengthen your physical, emotional, and mental states in alignment with your deeper soul-driven directives for what lies ahead, this massive shift of outer planetary energies from an earth/water state to air/fire underscores the urgency to do so now.

Here's a few suggested themes for reflection over the next two weeks of this New Moon lunation:

What have I learned about myself since the December 21st solstice of last year?

What changes am I now making to ready myself for a rapidly emerging new mythos in this 21st Century?

How do I plan on nurturing myself (including strengthening of the physical body) in the coming days?

What actions on my part are required to create a more sustainable and holistic family and community structure?

How can I become an effective voice for change, or support those who espouse progressive ideals in our quest for a more sustainable and life-giving reality?

And finally, keeping with the evolving 21st century trend of using technology to connect with a larger audience, join me for a live Zoom session on Sunday, August 2nd at 2 to 4 pm EDT where I will explore in greater depth the planetary cycles for the remainder of 2020 and their rippling effect into 2021 and beyond. The last 30 minutes of the program will be open for non-personal Q/A, specific to the discussed content. The Zoom call is open to 100 participants and will be recorded (audio).

Copies of such will be available via a donation to defray the time to process the sound file and disseminate it. More specific information will be forthcoming in an email to my mailing list and this blog towards the end of July.

Here's the Zoom link for joining in. I will activate the meeting room 20 minutes before the scheduled start time. As this is my first solo Zoom, I won't require registration this time. So it's first ones in line. A friend will help me review any questions submitted in the chat section. From there, she will select (as time permits) questions for my further exploration most germane to the content.

I look forward to further exploring these epic changing times with you.

Sat Nam,

Starman, Joseph Mina

Ocean City, New Jersey

July 21, 2020

Solstice June 2020: what in the world is going on???

2020-06-19T07:03:00.023+02:00

"For my part I know nothing with certainty but the sight of the stars make me dream"

- Vincent Van Gough

Greetings Fellow Earthlings and Lovers of the Night Sky

Black Lives Matter protest in St. Louis

It’s been quite the chaotic dance since I last wrote in early March. Lockdowns, border restrictions, oodles of information and misinformation, global pandemic spread leading to over 8.5 million infected and near 500,000 related deaths, unprecedented social protests, and a lot of stay-at-home realities triggering massive layoffs, school and business closings and significant social reorganization. And we're not even at the half-way mark of the year!

At the moment I’m residing in the western suburban area of Philadelphia with my younger sister and husband, since South Africa’s borders are temporarily closed to tourist and non-residents alike. This is the longest stretch for me in the USA since 2017. Such a different reality here than South Africa. I had thought I’d be in South Africa by now enjoying its extraordinary star-filled winter night sky. But the Universe had other ideas and plans!

So what in the world is going on for the next six months? I’ll state it up front: based on the coming astrological cycles of 2020’s second half, and further fueled by the chaotic intensity from the first half, amplified events await! Yet generational-changing opportunity becomes more available through renewed group focus and intention.

We are part of an extraordinary shift in consciousness now underway whose social, economic and political ramifications cannot yet be fully understood. This is more evident today than it was in 2008 when Pluto first entered Capricorn and the world financial structures mightily shook. This is fertile virgin ground for significant global changes over the next 10 years. What

Coronavirus: Neptune in Pisces and the Coming Virgo Full Moon

2020-03-03T13:35:00.001+02:00

“When we quit thinking primarily about ourselves and our own self-preservation, we undergo a truly heroic transformation of consciousness.” Joseph Campbell

Greetings from the Western Cape of South Africa

Western Cape, South Africa
photo by Joseph Mina

It has been a little over a year since I last posted here. I am finally emerging fully from a very strong three- year Neptune-type cycle to my Mercury in Pisces (communication) and Saturn in Virgo (structure), which has altered my communication and empathic abilities, perspectives about life, enhanced my photographic skills, and elevated the astrological and bodywork skills I share with others. It also inspired my transient move to the Western Cape of South Africa. It's affirming to now emerge from Neptune's fog-like influences with a much clearer understanding of my next steps on this life journey.

Neptune transits are challenging for anyone due to their lack of specifics and direction. Archetypal Neptune also rules the realm of the unseen, including bacteria and viruses. Personal Neptune transits convey deep spiritual meanings and guidance that is beyond the realm of rational thought and the seen. Literally it is the messenger revealing our soul-collective mandates for humanity's evolution. And, depending on an individual's circumstances and soul mandate, can be a period of delusion, depression and strong confusion.

Since June of last year, Neptune has been in strong supportive aspect with Saturn and Pluto in Capricorn, and most recently the January Capricorn surge (see Full Moon chart below).

This potent, trans-generational archetype, rules the mystical sign of Pisces. Its epic, once-in-a-lifetime transit of its home sign that commenced in 2011 and completes in 2027 (occurs every 165 years or so) has strongly amplified Pisces' themes such as compassion and empathy (or lack thereof), spirituality, water (including intense storms/drought and climate shifts), music, imagery, illusion and delusion including drugs, the primal natural-world vibe, and humanity's global evolution. And we still have seven more years to go!

Now just half-way through its Piscean journey, Neptune lines up in direct opposition with the coming Virgo Full Moon on March 9th. Most of the planetary aspects at Full Moon are contained like book ends between the South Node in Capricorn (the coming end of the Industrial Revolution model) and Venus/Uranus in Taurus (the coming Aquarian age (Uranus) and deeper connection to the Earth (Venus/Taurus). In between those end points is a very potent mix of energies spanning just 4 signs. This intensity has been in play since early January. Children born recently under this configuration are here to create epic changes in the coming years.

Further, to emphasize how its influence highlights Neptune's dance with the illusion of time, this Full Moon connection occurs the day after the switch to daylight time in the US and Canada.

In short, such a strong Full Moon on March 9th will further amplify world-wide concerns now surfacing about the Coronavirus. Here, the Moon in Virgo, which focuses on matters of health, occurs just as Mercury stations at direct motion at the very end degrees of Aquarius. This has been quite the Mercury Retrograde (Feb 17-Mar10)! Mercury's Aquarius placement at Full Moon serves as a communication standard bearer and indicator for the coming Aquarian age and its very different Earth/societal dynamics.

A Virus Cell

And as an aside here and germane to the Coronavirus, the actual news beyond China of this mysterious virus and its potential effects occurred as Saturn and Pluto neared exact conjunction in rule-driven Capricorn on December 31 while the Moon transited Pisces. To further underscore this dynamic, a very strong surge of Capricorn energy including a strong Solar eclipse were further energizing the field. Such timing mirrors the serendipity and timing of the Universe...right there!!

Two-years ago I wrote the emerging energetic world script pointed to greater intensity in 2019 and even more in 2020. The 2020 part has occurred just as limiting/structured Saturn has comes into close or exact aspect with transformative Pluto in Capricorn. Intensity on all levels has now become the norm for the time being (they were in opposition on 9/11/2001). These two archetypal dynamos remain in orb until March 22 (just past the equinox), then come close together again in Capricorn between early July and December 17. Yes, we are in for quite the energetic ride over the coming months.

In all respect, awareness is power. In that vein it is helpful to know certain astrological frequencies are now mirroring an amplification of Earth energies through changing climate and strong Aquarian based societal changes. What lies beyond 2020? I’ll write more about 2021 and beyond potentials in a coming article.

Specific to viruses, recent information about the Coronavirus has been elevated rapidly to world-wide awareness (Pisces) during the Pisces part of the current Mercury retrograde. This has triggered deep fears, which has seen powerful rippling/adverse effects in the world's financial markets (Capricorn). In Neptunian fashion, this dream has become a nightmare for governments (Capricorn) attempting to control/contain/deal with a viral outbreak.

So who do you believe? What do you believe? Stay informed and use reputable news sources. The illusion of Facebook, Twitter, Instagram memes would not necessarily fall under the reputable category.

And most importantly, are you at danger of contracting the virus? Well, yes and no. Depends on circumstances and your state of health. Recently, I wrote an article about the important role viruses and bacteria play in the Earth's circle of life including their transformative effects.

On The March: Zimbabwe 2019
photo by Joseph Mina

A Brief Look Down The Energetic Hallway

As transformative Pluto and rule-driven Saturn complete their final passages through Capricorn (Pluto first entered Capricorn during the financial disruptions of 2008), all things Capricorn such as politics, rules, law, business, corporate structures and organizations will undergo further amplification and strong transformative changes over the coming months through 2023.

In that year, Pluto will move into the sign of Aquarius, working its energetic transformative effects in the realm of future events and technology (including robotics), and most importantly social justice and equality. Saturn by contrast moves into Aquarius this coming March 22, just after the equinox; staying in early degrees Aquarius until July 2 when it returns for one-last Capricorn pass and Pluto interaction.

Saturn's Aquarian passage over the next two-and-a-half years will literally set the energetic stage for Pluto's 20-year transit in 2023-2043 in Aquarius, as it redefines the societal rules and structures that will prevail in the coming years.

Now is the time to energetically prepare for this huge energetic surge by strengthening your body and attuning to your spirit and its life-mandates. The last time Pluto transited Aquarius was just after the American Revolution of 1776. History is a great reminder, teacher and guide. In the 21st Century, that guidance becomes all the more important for the continued health and well-being of all people.

Lastly, strong cycles will unfold later this year as Venus retrogrades Gemini in May/June (replaying its epic Sun transit vibration of 2004 and 2012), and Mars will retrograde in Aries in Sept/Nov, including the US Presidential elections, which occurs during Mercury Retrograde in Libra. Stay tuned!!!

Exciting Coming Event:

Power Of Presence Hawaii Retreat - September 2020

South Kona Coast and City of Refuge
photo by Joseph Mina

My partner Charissa Rousseau and I are offering a 10-day Hawaii Retreat this coming September on Hawaii's Kona Coast on Big Island. This Retreat occurs during a potent Mars retrograde in Aries. Mars is about taking action and starting new endeavors. Its retrograde period is the perfect time to go within to seed those very energies.

To assist you, we have planned five group bodywork sessions, guided interactions with Hawaii's dolphins, guided meditations attuning to the light-bridge connecting Africa massive and wise elephants and animals with Hawaii's cetaceans, and yoga and movement. There will be insightful astrological and spiritual discussions, night sky tours, and a deeper connection to Hawaii's culture and temples through the eyes and hearts of local Hawaiian elders. You will also take a transformative day journey to Pele's mystical home at Volcanoes National Park. And in the nurturing department, organically-based catered meals and powerful camaraderie with like-minded souls will provide immense support in your growth and Hawai'i transformation.

All in all, this framework will form a very strong template for this transformative retreat. I'll post more in the coming days about how you can join us for this powerful life-altering experience.

My Life’s Focus of Service

Over the past 28 years, in addition to understanding and working with astrological cycles, I have practiced a body-centered therapy called Quantum Alignment Bodywork. This modality, which continues to evolve in concert with the Earth’s rapid changes, works with the various energetic fields of the body (picture a large bubble surrounding the body). As with my own personal life choices, and the bodywork I receive on a frequent basis, my intention behind my work is to add strength and depth to the body’s energetic field, rather than stopping body’s symptoms. Quality of life is paramount to me rather than a focus on longevity.

Sunset Group Bodywork Session - Hawaii
photo by Joseph Mina

Further, upgrading the body’s various energetic strategies has now become paramount to match and become in tune to this rapidly changing 21st century vibration. It logically follows: the stronger and more energized the body functions, the greater the opportunity to make healthier and more creative life-giving/receiving choices for everyone. Healthy people always make healthy choices.

In my bodywork sessions, I work specifically with a person’s overall energetic field and related body’s innate intelligences accessing and activating specific combinations of energy meridians and other places of passive tension ready to shift/change. My intention is always to use the least amount of input to create the greatest amount of change, trusting in the body’s innate wisdom to reorganize the energetic fields accordingly. Further, I find working with groups of people, instead of the common one-to-one, much more energetically powerful than anyone could possibly experience by themselves. This mirrors the emerging Aquarian mandate of creating a healthy society through group interaction and collaboration. As such, anytime a healthy energy field is occupied by a like-minded group of people, the potential for a more enriched exchange increases significantly and exponentially.

Service To The World:

Recent Selfie 😎

As I near the ripe young age of 70, I find my love for traveling and sharing both astrological perspectives of this revolutionary time, as well as bodywork sessions with groups of people more and more exciting. Today I feel more energized, more alive and more connected than I did just 20 years ago. The power of frequently receiving powerful bodywork modalities, eating organically, exercise etc. is a lifestyle I passionately embrace.

Since I began offering sessions back in 1992, I have served over 20,000 people. That very thought is quite humbling. Likewise, i am ever grateful to local promoters who contact me for purposes of visiting their community to offer programs, or to work with their retreat group. This type of exchange is always an energy stimulating one for all concerned.

If you are interested in my working with your community or retreat group, or would like an insightful astrological consultation during a very transformative time, please contact me at geminiawakening@mac.com.

Lastly, the name Gemini Awakening, something I created a long time ago with my former partner Kathryn Andren, is finally fading away as Neptune's influence in my chart also wanes. That name will soon be replaced by Core Activation, which best expresses the current energetic pace and higher intention behind the modalities I practice in this emerging Aquarian age.

I look forward to serving you in new and exciting ways.

Sat Nam

Joseph Mina

Stellenbosch, South Africa

March 5, 2020

Coronavirus: Ally or Foe???

2020-03-03T13:31:00.002+02:00

“A virus can change the fate of the world; power has nothing to do with being tiny or giant! Power is something related to the power hidden within you!”
― Mehmet Murat ildan, Turkish author, poet and playright.

The Role of Viruses and Bacteria

In general, viruses and bacteria are a natural part of the Earth’s eco-system. Each serves a very specific function in the circle of life. That circle of life comprises the many living parts of the Earth’s various elemental energy fields.

Example of a Virus

Viruses represent aggressive agents of change whose function is basically degenerative, i.e. to breakdown energetic forms. A virus requires a living host in order to function. Their introduction into any living system from an external source creates tremendous pressure within a system, literally forcing within that living system the release of bound-up internal energy. For purposes of this article, bound up energy would represent energy that is trapped, contained and not easily accessible within a living organism. A viral presence creates intense tension patterns that ultimately requires some sort of body release or purging in order to reestablish equilibrium and flow.

The traditional approach to viruses has been vaccines. This is a human created response. No where in nature do vaccines exist. Upon the administration of a vaccine, the body creates an immune response, creating anti-bodies to counteract a virus. While this short-term strategy seemingly has its benefits, an alteration of the body's overall functioning (strategies) occurs. This unnatural alteration may create long-term complications leading to more exotic diseases later in life.

Noted biologists Dr. Bruce Lipton contends through his research viruses do not invade the body. Rather they are drawn into a living host by the very cells within a host requiring change (much like a magnet draws metal to itself). In other words, cellular memory/awareness within the cell’s structure actually possesses the innate capacity to accept or reject a virus based on the functioning needs of a cell. This is quite a profound and telling aspect to the body’s overall strategy for survival and healthy expression. More can be learned on YouTube via Dr. Lipton’s series “The Biology of Belief”.

Equally profound is the natural cleansing or purging process that is activated internally to rid a host of whatever no longer serves its overall functioning. If any living host exists in a depleted energetic state (quite usual for those struggling with any infection or degenerative condition), that exchange of energy can literally lead at a minimum to a temporary purging within one or more of the body systems, for example a lung infection or the flu, and at worst, a complete breakdown of the system leading to death.

Bacteria

Bacteria is another aspect of the natural world that serves a critical purpose. Bacteria are astonishingly resilient and able to mutate as the need arises. The persistent use of antibiotics in our current-day culture, an unnatural and human-based medical technique originating in the 19th century, has led to the evolution of stronger and even more resilient strains of bacteria. No matter what the human approach here, bacteria has shown it has a more intense and persistent answer. Medical professionals are highly concerned that existing antibiotics will soon lose their ability to counteract newer mutated strains of bacteria.

Bacteria possess the amazing ability to shape-shift or change their energetic frequency to match the health-related state of a living organism. This includes the need to naturally purge or release any substance no longer necessary for the healthy functioning of a living organism. If that entity is in an overall healthy state, then most bacteria will function in a positive or beneficial way adding strength to the body systems. The abundance of beneficial bacteria in the intestinal tract is one of many examples.

By contrast, if the organism is in an overall depleted or toxic state (some refer to this state as being “sick”), the balance of bacteria shifts or changes into a more degenerative form to literally de-organize or breakdown the organism’s energy field into a lower, more efficient form of useable energy.

One example of bacteria’s ability to mutate is found in dead flesh in the form of edible fish or meat. The natural tendency of anything that ceases to function is to decompose through the action of certain types of bacteria. In turn, this returns the physical matter to a lower level of organization from which it can reorganize into something new.

As bacteria requires heat to function, reducing the ambient temperature in something dead slows down this natural bacterial action to prevent rapid decomposition. Humans created refrigeration for this very reason. Prior to refrigeration, many people died due to poor hygiene in the food supply by eating bacteria laden foods.

Hence, bacteria, both beneficial and degenerative create a specific balance in a living organism that mirrors its overall state of health. Without this balance, an organism would not be able to function.

Further, on at least a human level, the overall chemical state of the body’s fluids such as blood or lymph fluid requires the system to be in a somewhat alkaline rather than acidic state. If the body is too acidic, bacteria will set in motion a process to rid the body of those parts creating higher acidity. People whose diet is mostly acidic will be generally unhealthy, showing various symptoms of that unhealthy state.

In the bigger picture, if a population (human or non-human) lives in an environment that is toxic (a human-made phenomenon), then the spread of disease in that environment through viral and bacterial action will become rampant and rapid. That’s because the Universe is built on the principle of expansion, reorganization and the efficient exchange of energy. Equally the natural world sets in motion anything necessary to free-up energy into a more flowing state. In order to expand, grow or be more efficient in its energy expression, a living organism or environment must be in a healthy and vital state. Otherwise, the overall system needs to break down so a more healthy energy state can be reorganized and expressed.

The Expanding Human Population

Centuries ago, the Earth’s human population began to rapidly expand. More and more people led to the formation of cities, where many people lived unnaturally in close proximity to each other. Lacking adequate sewage treatment for waste, the local environment became more and more toxic. The naturally induced remedy was a purging of the system, or said another way, the spread of viruses became rampant. For example, in Europe and Asia during the 14th century, great plagues swept across populations living in unsanitary states literally killing millions of people living already in toxic conditions. This viral and bacterial purging was necessary to restore the overall earth environment to a more healthy or balanced state.

The greatest challenge facing humans today is the rapid growth of population (over 1 billion people have been added to the Earth in just the past ten years or about 150 people every minute). The current population is now nearing 8 billion people. Just 50 years ago, the Earth’s human population was one-half this number. Like a snowball rolling down a mountain, its initial size begins very small, but can rapidly increase as it gathers speed (more energy). Hence, the greater energy required to sustain a huge population places extreme pressure on the natural environment of the land, sea, air to provide sufficient energy to sustain the healthy state of a massive population. Environmental degradation runs counter to this energetic flow. As such, unless there is a massive shift of awareness, the overall Earth’s systems will breakdown or change if those very natural systems are extremely stressed and unable to no longer function. In the short-term (geologically speaking) that may lead to an environment hostile to human existence.

Most scientist world-wide now agree we are at that tipping point of sustainability.

A Rapidly Changing Planet and Climate Change

Meanwhile, the Earth itself is undergoing a huge upward shift in its vibration. Life is now moving faster and faster reflecting this enormous vibrational change. Societies and cultures are likewise changing, attempting to adapt to these intense environmental shifts.

Zimbabwe Children
Photo By Joseph Mina

Children developing in utero in this higher vibrational state reflect greater abilities and faster behavior due to more advanced nervous and body systems. The rapid shift of technological advancements over the past ten years, such as computers, advanced mobile phones, tablets, networks etc also reflects this rapid upward shift in energy. Hence, the increasing pressures of more and more people together with a change in the Earth’s vibration now trigger enormous questions about how humans will be able to exist, function and thrive in a healthy fashion in this rapidly evolving 21st century. That script has yet to be written or revealed.

Yet notwithstanding answers, such questions are best understood and addressed first on an individual level. Here, the healthy functioning of any person requires a healthy state of living. Eating organically grown foods, daily exercise and quiet time, adequate rest, working and living in a healthy environment, having healthy relationships with others, and refraining from toxic behaviors, such as smoking, represent the ideal that supports a healthy and enriched existence. More so, functioning on this level requires a strong internal physical energy core supported by healthy beliefs and positive attitudes.

Yet “no man is an island”. We coexist with others in a myriad of ways, sometimes expansively, other times deficiently. Because human society is extremely dynamic, highly changeable, and made up of many fluctuating parts, maintaining such a healthy state on an individual level can prove to be quite challenging unless a societal mandate exists for all peoples to coexist in a healthy, sustainable fashion.

Conclusion

Mosi-oa-tunya (Victoria Falls)
photo by Joseph Mina

Because of such rapid Earth and societal changes, receiving effective body therapies on a more regular basis has now become an integral part of a person’s overall healthy life choices and strategies. A significant increase in the number of practitioners offering such health-related therapy services throughout the world is a poignant indicator of such needs. Immediate focus of protecting oneself from viruses/bacteria is a futile, short-term strategy. Better to strengthen your body’s inner core for the days ahead.

In that respect, it’s important to remember no state of existence is immune from change. Change is inevitable. Yet growth, going beyond your comfort zone, is always optional. The ultimate question: will you make choices for change and growth proactively, or allow your life circumstances to be dictated by passive or unhealthy decisions? The former state creates positive outcomes; the latter state invariably leads to challenging outcomes.

Recently, Gwyneth Paltrow via Netflix introduced a much bigger audience to recent trends in the wellness field that reveals natural-based opportunities now available for strengthening the body’s inner core. If you are a Netflix subscriber, search for “GOOP”. Otherwise, a search on YouTube for Goop will reveal a myriad of wellness and life-style related podcast that may help you make better, informed choices.

And therein lies the crux of the matter. Awareness is power. Using that power to effect positive changes on the Earth, not only benefits future generations, but most importantly helps you to attune to the natural world around you, and supports initiatives that add more life to life. That’s quite the contrast to degrading and mutating the environment (pollution, radiation, GMO foods, habitat and species destruction, vaccines, etc) to attain very short-term and myopic outcomes (usually financially/politically driven) that adversely affect a quality of life essential for all to grow and prosper.

As always, the choice is ours.

Sat Nam
Joseph Mina
Stellenbosch, South Africa
March 3, 2020

Total Lunar Eclipse January 20/21: The Internal Roar

2019-01-20T03:01:00.000+02:00

"Always remember, you have within you the strength, patience, and passion to reach for the stars to change the world." Harriet Tubman - American Abolitionist and political activist (1822-1912)

Astrology is a progressive tool for exploring life potential and possibilities. Discover NOW the power of your talents/abilities set out in your natal chart from a reorganizational and energy-rich perspective.

"Intuitive, compassionate, direct and to-the-point, eloquent and last but not least, great-humored and fun, Joseph continues to enighten, enrich and expand with the rest of the Universe." CK, Vancouver

Schedule your 2019 on-line astrology consultation session TODAY!

Greetings from the Western Cape of South Africa

Almost a year has past since my last blog entry! "Best laid plans of mice and men." At various points of 2018 I had great intentions about weighing-in on the very significant transiting cycles of 2018, but Neptune and its fog-like cloak thought otherwise. I'll share much more about my dance of surrender with Neptune in a future blog. Suffice it to say for the moment Neptune has brought me many gifts in my career realms of bodywork, astrology and imagery. And equally, Neptune has been dissolving (on-going) that which no longer serves my soul-journey. So onto the issue at hand: the coming Super Moon total lunar eclipse.

Cut To The Chase Version:

Starting a year with two significant lunar cycles, i.e. a partial solar eclipse in Capricorn (January 6) and Super Moon total eclipse in Leo (January 20/21), portends a year of great change (possibly upheaval), introspection, intensity (perhaps greater than witnessed so far this decade), and significant beginnings. This is a potent time to tap into your inner passion and let it roar. Three significant