This week is exceedingly less busy than previous weeks: no big, life-altering sign changes to report. The week begins with a strong transit for finances, starting new business deals, and commerce. 

On Monday, March 27, Mercury will come into a conjunction with Jupiter, signaling big beneficial energy for stuff like commerce, banking, doing your taxes, accounting and organizing. Jupiter is the planet of benefits and blessings, and anytime a planet comes into conjunction with him, you can think of it as the start of a new cycle or the beginning of a story related to whatever that planet is about. For Mercury, he’s the planet associated with business deals. Something about the transit feels like getting the windfall or financial backing that you need to get moving on a commercial enterprise that you’ve been waiting for. This is a great time to be doing some analyzing of your finances, planning how you want to use the support of benefactors to get a project or venture moving. On the emotional and intellectual level, Mercury is coming out of the beams of the Sun – he’s not quite there yet – and beginning his approach toward maximum elongation and his eventual retrograde in late April. Right now he’s in position to be an evening star, which does make him a little more careful and thoughtful. This can be used a reflective period to think about your belief systems, goals and aspirations and your vision for the future.

On Thursday, March 30, there are two transits to pay attention to. First up, Mars, who just made his ingress into Cancer, will trine the planet of rules and limits, Saturn. Mars is in a sign that’s requiring him to think about connection, especially with friends and family. Mars is a little subdued in Cancer, perhaps channeling his expressing his aggression and passion in more roundabout ways. With Mars coming into contact with the planet of structure, Saturn, think about what boundaries you need to put up around friend and family relationships. Even think about rules and structure that you need to erect in the home – perhaps when it comes to organizing, keeping track of chores, tidying up, getting rid of clutter, that sort of thing. Trines are about ease and flow, so this isn’t going to feel like you’re under stress or pressure. It’s more about how you can create space or set up rules that will benefit you when the heat is on.

The next aspect on Thursday is Venus, the planet of relationships, coming into a conjunction with the unsteady energy of Uranus. I love how Bernadette Brady calls conjuncts “invasion of the body snatchers.” This is a great image to think about when two planets come together and merge their energy. Venus is about our intimate connections, the ways we enjoy ourselves and beauty. But Uranus wants to shake things up. The simplest expression of this transit is some kind of unexpected event dealing with relationships. Since it’s happening in Venus’ domicile of Taurus, there may be some material matters, even money, that’s involved. You may get some kind of out-of-the-blue news about your money that leaves you clamoring. Maybe a bill collector calls that require you to drain a bit of savings to get them off your back. Volatility is a great Uranus keyword. Watch for potential explosive interactions with your partner. This transit doesn’t have to be scary, though. Under a Uranus-Venus transit, you may meet someone who takes you by surprise and whom you want to go on a date with and get to know. 

Okay, there you have it. That’s the astrology that will take us through the end of March. Don’t forget to head over to my Book a Consultation page and schedule a time with me if you want to learn more about how these planetary cycles are affecting you personally. Every Sunday I dedicate to donation-based consultations.

If you haven’t had a chance to check out the week ahead forecast for March 18 to 25, don’t forget to head over there after getting the lowdown on the upcoming New Moon for March.

Tuesday, March 21 brings a major pileup of planets in the sign of Aries, including the Sun and the Moon coming into a conjunction at 0 Aries. This degree, often called the Aries point, is closely linked to the astrological new year and the Spring Equinox. The New Moon hitting his point creates potent energy for fresh starts, turning a new leaf, taking a new risk, forging ahead on a new adventure or starting a new career or life path. 

The ruler of this lunation is Mars, and he’s in a particularly strong position this week as he prepares to end his eight-month transit of Gemini and ingress into the sign of Cancer. For many of us, we’ve endured quite difficult life transitions as Mars ground away at our mutable placements week after week in Gemini. Finally, Mars will be leaving, with our lives transformed in small and big ways.

This New Moon is a perfect opportunity to think about what your Mars in Gemini story was about. What has changed in your life since August of last year? With him preparing to change signs, this makes the emphasis of this New Moon about settling into our new realities and getting to work on what we want our next big adventure to look like in the weeks and months ahead.

Notice that Mars is in an out-of-sign square with the New Moon. This is a huge tell about the quality and tone of this lunation. Squares are active. They involve us making decisions and choices that cause change in our situations and surroundings. Mars is issuing a sort of challenge for you to jump-start whatever part of your chart is under the auspices of Aries. If this is your 2nd house by whole sign, think about how you can get things moving when it comes to your finances. Or, if this is your 10th house of career, what moves are you wanting to make to take you career to a whole new level. Again, I think this New Moon is strongly linked the Mars in Gemini story. If we’ve had endings brought about by Mars in the last eight months, this New Moon could point toward the new beginning that comes in the weeks and months ahead, and all the busyness that we’ll be involved in to get that part of our life moving.

Meanwhile, this New Moon happens while copresent with the triplicity ruler of Aries, Jupiter. This adds an expansiveness to this lunation. We’re likely to feel like we can take a risk, try something new or push beyond our perceived limits and abilities. Also conjunct this New Moon is the planet Mercury, which is coming off of a very intense week combust the Sun. If Mercury entering into cazimi with the Sun is like a sick man taking to his sick bed, the emerging of Mercury from combustion like a man regaining his health and strength. This is a powerful symbol, I think, of our recovery from a difficult few weeks and months (hello, Mars in Gemini). We should see Jupiter and a Mercury here as hopeful signs of what is to come for us between now and the corresponding Full Moon in Aries on September 28.

Okay, so there you have it. That’s your New Moon forecast for March. As always, if you’re interested in diving deeper into these cycles, please head on over to my Book a Consultation page to schedule a session with me. Every Sunday morning is reserved as a donation-only period. 

On Thursday, the planet of breakdown and breakthroughs, Pluto, makes a sign change for the first time since 2008. Now, as he enters the sign of the water bearer, he’ll only spend about three months here before retrograding back into his current sign, Capricorn, before eventually entering Aquarius for good next year. And while this represents just a brief taste of what Pluto’s 20+ year stay in Aquarius will feel like, it’s important to pay attention to this period from March to June as the opening salvo of a much longer narrative.

Pluto Enters Aquarius

Wherever we find Pluto in a chart, we find the disintegration and breakdown of the structures surrounding that area of life. Eventually, Pluto’s impulses to destroy gives way to the building up of something new to take its place. Pluto is strongly related to the archetype of Pele, the Hawaiian goddess of creation and destruction. Creation cannot exist without death. Island of Hawaiʻi, sometimes called the Big Island, is home to an active volcano that often has a destructive element to surrounding communities. But that same volcano is also slowly creating a new island to add to Hawaiʻi’s island chain. Another way to think of Pluto is a fruit that falls from the tree and slowly decays on the ground. As it disintegrates, its releases the seeds that will eventually become new life.

Pluto is related to our most base human instincts. Often where Pluto is found in a chart, we rely on our more reptilian brain to approach those topics of life. We are impulsive, controlling, protective and defensive. But the changes that Pluto wants to bring are going to occur regardless if we put a fight or not. The quicker you embrace the breakdown in this area of life, the faster you’ll get to the breakthrough that this transit wants to bring about.

On the mundane level, Pluto in Aquarius can point toward the breakdown of our current structures. As Pluto transited Capricorn, we saw an obsession with authoritarian and traditional structures. The rise of Donald Trump in response to Barrack Obama is an example of this — people pining for the good ‘ole days in reaction to the advancement of minorities. Aquarius is focused on building societies that are more just and equal. It wants to upend and rebel against societal norms that hold people back. Pluto here can point toward major social change over the next 20+ years. In fact, the last time Pluto made his way through this sign, the world witnessed both the American and French revolutions, which were focused on restructuring authority and government. Everything in astrology is variations on a theme, so watch for ways in which governments are held accountable by the people and how power is redistributed to make for a more just society.

On Saturday, at long last, Mars ends his eight-month transit of Gemini to the relief of those of us with strong mutable placements everywhere. We’ve endured quite a lot with Mars in Gemini. His prolonged retrograde period led to major life shifts and transits in many people’s lives.

This is a great week to reflect on what has changed in your life since the summer of last year. For myself, I’ve moved homes twice and changed jobs. Others have had much more dramatic shifts, such as the ending of relationships and even the death of loved ones. With Mars leaving Gemini this week, we are likely in a much different place now than where we were when he first entered the sign. We may feel more stable and rooted in this new reality as Mars makes his shift.

Now, Mars will be moving into the sign of Cancer, traditionally seen as the location of his fall or exile. However, Mars is a ruler in the water triplicity, and with Cancer being a water sign, Mars does have room to operate and be productive here.

Wherever Mars lands in a chart is where we are being asked to show initiative. He represents how we assert ourselves and express our desires. Cancer represents the way we protect ourselves, nurture and care for our bodies, soothe and heal our emotions and mundane parts of life like the family, home and our friends. With Mars in Cancer until May 20, think about how you’re taking action to care for your physical health. Mars likes to have a goal that he’s working toward – without a strategy, he can be a bit erratic. If you’re on a fitness or weight loss journey, think about how you’re keeping yourself accountable, or what small goals you’re setting to keep yourself on track.

Cancer is often related to our relationships like family and friends. Mars here could be asking you to tend to the fire of these partnerships. Because Cancer is a highly protective sign, watch for ways in which you are defensive on behalf of relatives or close friends. Mars is not fully steady in Cancer, so his aggressive, defensive energy can come out sideways, leading to conflict.

Mental health is another Cancer signification, and Mars here could require you to take action on anxiety, depression, or other psychic distress that you’ve been neglecting. Think about how you can use Mars’ skill at taking initiative to tend to your mental hygiene. Everyone around you will thank you for it.

Okay, so there you have it. That’s your astro weather for the week ahead. As always, if you’re interested in diving deeper into these cycles, please head on over to malulaniastrology.com and book a session with me. Every Sunday morning is reserved as a donation-only period. 

Enjoy the new astro landscape this week, and do let me know in the comments how you’re feeling the Pluto in Aquarius and Mars in Cancer energy in your lives.

This weekʻs astrological events all pile up mid-week on Wednesday and Thursday, highlighting several potential themes including endings and closure, long-term business planning, a transition to a period focused on our daydreams and imagination, and getting support from people in high places.

Weʻre in a bit of a holding pattern this week, awaiting some major astrological shifts that will take place during the month of March. Saturn, who has spent the last two-and-a-half years in Aquarius, is preparing for a major transition to Pisces, which will occur early next week. Then, later in March, Pluto will pop into Aquarius for a few months before retrograding back into Capricorn.

But, before then, thereʻs plenty of astro weather to work with this week. Here are the transits Iʻm paying attention to in the week ahead.

Wednesday, March 1

Venus Conjunct Jupiter

The Lesser and Greater Benefics, Venus and Jupiter, come together in a conjunction, making this is a time of support, advice, or even a financial boost. Jupiter is very much focused on beginnings right now, given his placement in a cardinal fire sign. Venus coming into alignment with him feels very much like getting the help you need to get moving on a project, venture or relationship. Jupiter is big and expansive, so watch for ways that your projects or relationships are growing beyond their previous boundaries. If youʻve been hesitating about asking for help or approaching a bank for a small business loan, this might be good energy to use to your advantage. People may also be turning to you for help and support. 

Thursday, March 2

Mercury Conjunct Saturn

Mercury, the planet of business, commerce and communications, comes into a conjunction with Saturn, the planet of rules and structure. This has the feel of thoughtful, long-term planning, especially in the area of business and finance. Certainly contracts, getting agreements in writing, concretizing deals and plans all fit with this energy. Saturn is often the planet of endings or long-term plans, so anything you sign your name to this week, be sure itʻs something you want to be involved with for the long haul. Saturn wants you to be thoughtful and perhaps even a little conservative around your business deals. As I mentioned earlier, Saturn is preparing to leave Aquarius next week, so this aspect is one of his lasts before making that transition. This has the energy of finality, to it. You may be saying goodbye to one chapter of life and preparing to transition to another soon. Think of this aspect a little like the closing credits on a movie.

Thursday, March 2

Mercury Enters Pisces

Later in the day, Mercury is going to leave Aquarius and enter the sign of Pisces, where he will spend the next 17 days or so. Pisces energy is very different from Aquarius energy. Whereas Aquarius wanted Mercury to think outside the box to innovate solutions, Pisces will require Mercury to leave the realm of the intellect and enter the land of dreams and imagination. The couple weeks ahead is a great time to settle into your feelings and work on new ways to process your emotions, whether through writing, painting, music or therapy. You may find yourself feeling a little hazy on concrete facts. Thatʻs because Mercury is focused more on abstract thinking while in Pisces. If youʻve been hoping to start a journaling practice, this transit would be perfect for that. So would practices like creative writing, poetry and even writing songs.

And there you have it. As always, if you’re interested in diving deeper into what these cycles mean in the context of your personal birth chart, hop on over to my “Book a Consultation” page and schedule a time with me. I can help you understand how to make the most of these planetary influences.

A sense of hope and optimism colors the beginning of the week with the Moon emerging from her conjunction with the Sun and slowly gaining light in the sign of Pisces. This New Moon was an opportunity to sit with our hopes and begin to think about how we can stop putting our aspirations on the back burner. If you haven’t had an opportunity to check out my New Moon in Pisces forecast, hop on over to that blog after this one. 

There’s an action-oriented start to the week, too, with the Moon applying immediately to a square with Mars. In fact, action is a keyword for this week, and here’s why. Aries, the sign of action, is highlighted this week with a major planetary ingress, and Mercury hits two active planets — Uranus and Mars — this week, too.

However, the big event this week is Venus moving into the cardinal fire sign of Aries, making a period of forward momentum and impulse around relationships or creative endeavors. And that is where we will begin our forecast for this week.

So, let’s jump right into. Here are a few transits happening this week to keep on your radar screen.

Monday, Feb. 20

Venus Enters Aries

Venus will spend the next 25 days transiting the sign of Aries. This is not a super comfortable place for her, given that it’s opposite her domicile of Libra. But she’s co-present with the fire triplicity ruler of Jupiter, lending support, blessing and optimism to her stay here. Aries is a sign concerned with action, competition, drive and passion, and Venus prefers to be in places where she can lounge around sipping Mai Tais and catching up with friends. Given the action-oriented nature of Aries, this could spell a busy period for social interactions. Now may be a time when we’re making new friends, starting creative projects, going on lots of dates or even getting a lot more action in the bedroom. Aries is hot and dry, and the dryness brings separation. This could potentially be a period where fights or frictions develop in our social relationships. Be on the lookout for ways that you’re asked to experiment or take a risk when it comes to your personal connections or creative work. 

Tuesday, Feb, 21

Mercury Square Uranus

These two communication-oriented signs come into hard aspect on Tuesday, but the energy around this aspect has been building for a few days and will last for the week or so. A challenging communication may come your way that forces a decision or an action. Uranus is the planet of surprise and the unexpected. News or information may catch you off guard this week and require you to innovate a solution on the fly. You may need to stay agile this week. That’s because plans, paperwork, contracts, or projects could experience a disruption or delay. I can’t help but think about technology challenges happening this week — devices breaking and needing to be upgraded or replaced, for instance. My rationale for this is obviously the communication signification for both these planets, but also the fact that Mercury is in sign — Aquarius — that is about invention and innovation. Whatever comes up surrounding this transit, it’s likely to catch us off guard.

Wednesday, Feb. 22

Mercury Trine Mars

Mercury hits another major aspect a day later, this time with the planet of action, Mars. Since September of last year, we’ve been in the midst of Mars’ long and arduous transit of the sign of Gemini. His retrograde period quite possibly stirred up this part of your chart, leading to major shifts or developments in your life. For myself, this has been a period of moving homes twice, leaving a job and preparing to start a new one. With Mars coming into a positive aspect with his domicile lord, Mercury, I can’t help but think of this aspect being about getting the support and clarity you need to move forward on whatever has shifted in your life since September. We may have felt like the Gemini part of our lives has been on fire for while now, and suddenly the ruler of that sign coming into trine aspect with it may feel like relief from the heat and pressure of Mars. 

Thursday, Feb. 23

Moon Enters Taurus

It’s a bit of a quiet week, so I figured I would mention this lovely ingress. Once every month, we are treated to the Moon entering the sign of its exaltation, Taurus, where she will remain for about two-and-a-half days. The Moon exalted lends a sense of comfort, joy, and feelings of ease to life in general. If you have something important that you need to do get done, using the Moon in exaltation can add a little blessing and support to the endeavor. Given that the Moon is disposited by an Aries Venus, you might think about what you want to start in the area of relationships or creativity. The North Node is currently in Taurus, and this amplifies this sense of optimism and ease as the Moon transits this point on her path.

And there you have it. As always, if you’re interested in diving deeper into what these cycles mean in the context of your personal birth chart, hop on over to my “Book a Consultation” page and schedule a time with me. I can help you understand how to make the most of these planetary influences.

We start the week with the Moon rapidly shedding light in the sign of Scorpio. If you’re feeling a little emotionally spent or even a little tired, this is a reflection of the Moon moving into her balsamic phase. Best to spend these days in a little bit of introspection and rest.

The week culminates with the New Moon on Feb. 19 in Pisces. This lunation is ruled by an action-oriented Jupiter in Aries, which wants you to get moving on your aspirations for the future. For a complete self-reflection guide to that lunation, check out my New Moon forecast right after this one.

Let’s break down the rest of the week ahead.

Tuesday, Feb. 14

Venus Conjunct Neptune

On Valentine’s Day, the planet of beauty and relationships, Venus, will be applying to a conjunction with dreamy Neptune, which will perfect the next day on the 15th. This is really the perfect transit for romance and getting lost in that warm and fuzzy feeling of being in love. There’s something deeply spiritual about this transit given its occurence in the sign of Pisces. If you’re not caught up in the rapture of being in love, this would be a great time to do something selfless for a person in need in your life. We can get a lot of the same endorphins that come from being in love by doing a little giving of ourselves in a selfless way.

Wednesday, Feb. 15

Sun Conjunct Saturn

The Sun is shining a huge spotlight on your obligations, work and duties. Under this planetary influence, we may feel like there is a lot that we need to accomplish. Don’t get too overwhelmed. Saturn is a slow and steady kind of planet, so making a to-do list and setting easy-to-accomplish micro-goals can help you stave off going crazy with the amount of work on your plate. This transit is occurring in the social sign of Aquarius, so you might think about how you can enlist support from the people around you to relieve a bit from your plates. This transit has a sober vibe, so if there’s work that demands you put on your serious hat, now is the time to take advantage of this energy. The Moon is coming to sextile this transit, as well, so you might think about how these obligations relate to the home, the body, your mother, or your family.

Friday, Feb. 17

Mercury Sextile Jupiter

We spoke last week about how Mercury’s time in Aquarius could be best spent by figuring out how to think about or do something differently in your life, especially in the realm of the mind or communications. This week, Jupiter is casting rays from Aries signaling that we may be getting support and guidance for the Mercury parts of your chart — Virgo and Gemini. Jupiter is in an action-oriented sign right now, so this transit could feel like getting the push you need to get out of a mental rut or innovate a solution to a problem you’re dealing with. Sextiles always come in the form of support, so think about who around you is providing a helping hand right now.

Saturday, Feb. 18

Sun Enters Pisces

The entrance of the Sun into Pisces is the precursor to a major ingress occurring next month: Saturn into Pisces. With the Sun coming off of a conjunction with Saturn, think of this period as an opening salvo for what may lie ahead when Saturn makes his ingress in a few weeks time. Pisces is dreamer energy. This is when the first signs of warmer weather begin to peek through the dark clouds of winter. We feel hopeful for the spring months, especially as signs of life begin to emerge around us. Now is a great time to begin to think about your goals and aspirations for the future.

Sunday, Feb. 19

New Moon in Pisces

Speaking of goals, the Feb. 19 New Moon in Pisces, ruled by an action-oriented Jupiter in Aries, wants you to get moving on your aspirations for the future. Jupiter is finally beginning to move through degrees in Aries that he hasn’t been in for some 10 years or so. This adds a trailblazing element to this New Moon. Coupled with Aries’ desire for forward progress, now is the exact right time to take steps to make your aspirations a reality. Don’t forget to check out my complete New Moon forecast and reflection guide.

And there you have it. As always, if you’re interested in diving deeper into what these cycles mean in the context of your personal birth chart, hop on over to my “Book a Consultation” page and schedule a time with me. I can help you understand how to make the most of these planetary influences.

Your dreams have been put on the back burner for long enough. The Feb. 19 New Moon in Pisces, ruled by an action-oriented Jupiter in Aries, wants you to get moving on your aspirations for the future. 

Every New Moon is about planting seeds that will germinate, grow and thrive in the months leading up to the corresponding Full Moon, when these goals come to their maturity. (The corresponding Full Moon for this cycle will occur in Pisces on Aug. 30.)

Jupiter is finally beginning to move through degrees in Aries that he hasn’t been in for some 10 years or so. This adds a trailblazing element to this New Moon. Coupled with Aries’ desire for forward progress, now is the exact right time to take steps to make your aspirations a reality.

The Moon is separating by just a few degrees from Saturn in the latter degrees of Aquarius. This is essentially an out-of-sign conjunction. Saturn is work-oriented. He wants us to put in the hours and manpower to get where we’re going. This New Moon may be asking us where we’re willing to put in the hard work to make our goals become reality. 

Then there’s the Moon and Sun co-present with Venus and Neptune, two planets that have desires for deep emotional and spiritual fulfillment. This could be asking us to consider how reaching our desired goal will bring more satisfaction and meaning to our lives.

Here are some reflection questions to consider as the New Moon in Pisces approaches. As always, be sure to check where Pisces lands in your whole sign chart. This will tell you what area of life these goals should be focused on.

In what ways am I blind to my deepest desires, hopes and aspirations?

The ruler of this New Moon, Jupiter, is in a blind spot to Pisces. In traditional astrology, we’d say that he’s averse, or unable to manage his domicile to best of his abilities. 

Symbolically, we could think about areas of life where we have been ignoring or neglecting our deepest desires. Often we go through life worried about the needs and desires of others, whether they be our spouse, children, boss or friends. Our own needs take a backseat.

In my own life, I’ve gone through periods of neglecting my physical health, going for long periods of time without rolling out the yoga mat or going to the gym. And primarily this happened because I was expending so much energy on other people’s needs (ie: work) and ignoring my own.

Think about parts of your life where you tell yourself, “I wish…” Maybe it’s “I wish I could visit Paris.” Or, “I wish I could write that book I’ve been dreaming up.” A Jupiter-ruled New Moon is the perfect time to make a resolution surrounding this desire.

Where am I emotionally or spiritually unfulfilled?

My yoga teacher, Yogarupa Rod Stryker, often says that deep dissatisfaction is a symptom of a desire that’s gone unfulfilled. Think about someone in an unhappy marriage. They’re unhappy for a reason — something is missing from the relationship, whether that be emotional intimacy, vulnerability, trust, affection, the list goes on.

Your restlessness is the emotional equivalent to pain sensations in the physical body. Unlike bodily pain, most people don’t seek out solutions for their dissatisfaction. Instead, we tend to numb or run from the feelings. This New Moon is an opportunity to sit in your feeling of disquiet and figure out what is going unfulfilled.

Perhaps you’re dissatisfied with your work. But you keep doing it because you need to earn a living and put food on the table. That’s perfectly understandable. This New Moon may be the time to think about how you can bring more fulfillment into your career. Maybe that’s a full-on career change. Or it’s something smaller like going part-time or getting permission to work from home. 

Wherever your dissatisfaction, fulfillment is only going to come if you take action.

How am I optimistic about the future?

Pisces being a Jupiterian sign lends a sense of optimism to this New Moon. Any change that you hope to make to your life, or any goal you hope to set this New Moon, needs the fuel of hope. In other words, where do you think you can affect the most change? What area of life feels like fertile ground for a new beginning?

Think about the Pisces part of your chart and what you’re hopeful for in this area of life. Let’s say Pisces is in your 7th house of relationships. If you’re single and you’ve just moved to a new city, maybe this is a great time in your life to start meeting new people, going on dates and making emotional connections. 

Or if Pisces if in your 10th house of career, perhaps you’ve felt stuck in your career and recently you began a new hobby or interest that has the potential to become a side hustle or a full-blown job. This New Moon would be the perfect time to lay the groundwork for monetizing your new skill.

As always, if you’re interested in diving deeper into what these cycles mean in the context of your personal birth chart, hop on over to my “Book a Consultation” page and schedule a time with me. Every lunation is occurring in a particular part of the chart corresponding to a unique aspect of life. I can help you understand how to make the most of these planetary influences.

This week begins with the Moon entering the detail-oriented sign of Virgo. For the first three days or so, this is a great time to spend getting organized, planning out projects, doing your taxes and otherwise getting paperwork sorted out, especially as the Moon comes to trine Mercury on Wednesday. 

In fact, the theme of structure and organization is emphasized as the Sun slowly comes into orb with the planet of rules and boundaries, Saturn. This aspect won’t perfect until next week, but now is certainly a good time to plan out projects related to the Aquarius part of your chart, especially as this aspect continues to build.

The week comes to a close with the Moon coming into the third-quarter phase in Scorpio. She’s rapidly shedding light after last week’s exciting Full Moon, so this is a great time to go inward and do a little self-reflection and self-care. Rest and rejuvenation are on the menu this weekend, for sure.

Check out my full week ahead forecast on YouTube. Don’t forget to like and subscribe.

Here are a few other aspects to help you plan out your week ahead:

Monday, Feb. 6

Mercury Sextile Neptune

There’s certainly a dream-like quality with this planetary contact, and you may find yourself distracted from more ordinary, boring tasks. Think about how you can find a marriage between your head and your heart under this transit, and this may help break you out of the desire to drift off into day dreams rather than get work done. Neptune may be asking that you bring in a creative element to whatever sort of organizing or paperwork that you’re involved in today. Maybe try listening to music while you work, or taking your work outside, perhaps answering emails from the beach. Creative writing is definitely a Mercury-Neptune activity, whether that be poems, lyrics a story or even a blog post. 

Wednesday, Feb. 8

Venus Sextile Uranus

This is a great transit to try out an unusual or unexpected date night, whether that be going out with someone you wouldn’t normally be attracted to or trying a cuisine that’s outside your comfort zone. Uranus is constantly pushing us to do things differently, sometimes to shake us out of our routine and other times to help us grow past what we think we’re capable of. Think about how you can bring an element of surprise or experimentation into your relationships or creative work. If you’re used to writing blogs, why not try making a video? If you’re always hanging out with the same friend, day after day, maybe call someone you haven’t seen in a while. 

Thursday, Feb. 9

Mercury Conjunct Pluto

Dark thoughts may creep into the psyche under this contact. Pluto is about plumbing the depths – he’s often making us confront the things that scare us, repel us or otherwise leave us emotionally vulnerable. Conjunctions are a bit like a hostile takeover. I’m reminded of the lyrics from the Donnie Darko song, The Sound of Silence, “Hello darkness, my old friend.” Mercury’s usual practical thinking is overrun by Pluto’s need to go deep or go home. Watch for thoughts today that you usually avoid contemplating – whether that be regrets, grief or betrayals. Rather than run from them, what would happen if you spent time in that dark place? The good thing is Mercury moves quickly, so you won’t need to be here forever.

Saturday, Feb. 11

Mercury Enters Aquarius

The week closes with Mercury entering the sign of Aquarius. He’ll be here for the rest of February, co-present with Aquarius’ ruler, Saturn. I like this placement a lot – the planet of the mind and communication is quite comfortable in air signs. Aquarius is the sign of the inventor, the eccentric, the technology innovator. Mercury here is an opportunity for us to think outside of the box, to do things differently, especially in the areas of life ruled by Mercury (wherever Gemini and Virgo land in your whole sign chart). This can be a great period for experimentation. 

And there you have it. As always, if you’re interested in diving deeper into what these cycles mean in the context of your personal birth chart, hop on over to my “Book a Consultation” page and schedule a time with me. Every transit and lunation is occurring in a particular part of the chart corresponding to a unique aspect of your life. I can help you understand how to make the most of these planetary influences.

The main event this week is the Full Moon occurring in the creative, self-expressive sign of Leo. This adds a bit of a dramatic flair to the week ahead, especially with the influence of Uranus — the celestial disrupter — in a few aspects this week. Here are just a few of the transits that are occurring in the skies this week.

Monday, Jan. 30

Sun Trine Mars

The week begins with this energizing influence carrying over from the weekend. With Mars now direct and coming into a helpful aspect with the Sun, now is a great time to get started on that idea you’ve been kicking around. Both planets are in air signs, the realm of the intellect, communication and personal connection. Mars can act like the ignition you need to get ideas moving. Whatever you’re working on, see if you can bring others into the fold – the social element of air likes teamwork and collaboration. If you’ve been putting off starting a new fitness regimen, now might be a good time to get that going. 

Thursday, Feb. 2

Sun Square Uranus

Conflict or tension could arise today from egoic impulses. Something or someone is challenging or asserting itself against whatever you’re attempting to accomplish this week. The need for independence, freedom and autonomy may be expressed under the influence of this transit. If you’re the one attempting to break free from a current circumstance, the caveat here is to do it without causing too much interpersonal conflict. Can you reign in the ego enough to prevent explosive outbursts or unexpected reactions to a challenging situation?

Friday, Feb. 3

Venus Square Mars

This aspect has the feel of severing ties or walking away from relationships or partnerships that aren’t living up to our expectations. Venus is moving through the hazy realm of Pisces, and it’s quite possible that whatever relationship dynamics are coming up this week are not exactly as they appear to be. Mars, for his part, is finally getting moving again in Gemini, and this can mean if you’ve been putting off a decision related to a relationship, business partnership or creative venture, it’s possible that you feel the impulse to finally act under this planetary interchange. But it won’t be easy. Squares are challenging. They often express themselves as head-butting, obstacles, arguments or clashes of will. But ultimately, hard situations pay off if we can move through them with a little bit of grace. With Venus in Pisces, today could also bring up memories of past relationships that challenge us emotionally. Venus and Mars are the archetypical star-crossed lovers. Their dynamic, while passionate and charged, is quite often a bit tragic. Is there a relationship break that you’re forced to mourn this week?

Sunday, Feb. 5

Full Moon in Leo

With this lunation occurring under direct influence of the planet of disruption, Uranus, expect the unexpected. The Moon is separating from a trine with Jupiter, perhaps signifying that you’ve received the blessing and support you needed to get started and that influence is now in the rearview mirror. Uranus is in a tight square with the Moon. This could signify taking an aggressive route to shine and stand out when it comes to this goal or pursuit of yours. It can mean taking a risk, perhaps ruffling feathers or going against convention. He adds a layer of instability and unpredictability to this lunation. You can read the complete Full Moon forecast here. 

And there you have it. As always, if you’re interested in diving deeper into what these cycles mean in the context of your personal birth chart, hop on over to my “Book a Consultation” page and schedule a time with me. Every transit and lunation is occurring in a particular part of the chart corresponding to a unique aspect of your life. I can help you understand how to make the most of these planetary influences.

The planet of beauty and relationships, Venus, is entering into the otherworldly, imaginative sign of Pisces this week. Known for its connection to martyrs and poets, Pisces is one of Venus’ special places in the zodiac. Here’s how her entrance into this sign will impact you.

First things first, the data. Venus pops into Pisces on Friday, Jan. 27 where she will remain until Sunday, Feb. 19. She moves quickly, so her influence here is not likely to be life-changing. Nevertheless, if you have any planets in Pisces or other mutable signs (Virgo, Gemini, Sagittarius), or in the water signs of Scorpio and Cancer, you may see some impact from her movement.

As the planet of connection transits through a sign known for its lack of boundaries, it’s quite likely that some of us will want to get lost in the other. During this time we might tumble into dream-like idealization of our partners or the person we’re admiring. 

Use this time to deepen your connection with the people you love. Given both Pisces’ and Venus’ connection to poetry and music, now might be a good time to make a Spotify playlist for someone close to you, adding in all the songs you’ve shared along your journey through life together. 

Memories are key to Pisces, too. If you’ve lost people over the past year through relationship splits or death, this could be a highly charged period for you. You may find yourself reliving moments you shared together and getting drawn into idealizing these people. While grieving the loss is necessary, be careful of romanticizing relationships that weren’t always perfect.

This could be a highly emotional time in relationship matters, as well. Pisces is known for its depth of feeling and its ability to take on the pain and suffering of others. With Venus moving through this watery terrain, we may lose ourselves in empathy, absorbing the emotional discharges of other people and treating these feelings as our own.

This transit isn’t all outward-looking, either. Pisces can express itself through the healing arts like therapy, meditation, yoga nidra and music. Now would be a great time to lean into some of these practices to bring yourself space for self-care and regeneration.

As always, you should look where Pisces lands in your whole sign chart. If on the Ascendant, for instance, you may find yourself desiring the beauty of connection over these next couple of weeks. 

On the Midheaven, it’s possible that work and career relationships take on special prominence, or you have a need to be more expressive and creative in the tasks you’re doing for work. 

Likewise, on the Descendant, attention may shift to relationships with your partner, while the Imum Coeli signifies relationships with your parents.

Use this time to bring healing and connection to these important relationships in your life — whether yourself, your parents, your partner or your acquaintances. 

A few key Venus transits to watch for:

Friday, Feb. 3

Venus Square Mars

This could be a time of conflict or even splits. Venus brings her Piscean idealism to a Mars that beginning to pick up speed. These two planets have a love-hate relationship with one another, with Venus often trying to calm and temper fiery Mars. Watch for places where you’re trying to bring a level head to a situation that feels ablaze. 

Tuesday, Feb. 7

Venus Sextile Uranus

Leave room for the unexpected during the days leading up to and following this transit. Surprises may show up in your relationship that are pleasant and helpful. Uranus often manifests as news and information that shakes things up. This could manifest as a welcome addition to a relationship circumstance given the sextile involved. 

Tuesday, Feb, 17

Venus Conjunct Neptune

Now might be a time when you find yourself lost in memories or reveries of relationships long past. Neptune causes situations to be a bit hazy and dream-like. It’s possible if you’re dealing with any relationship-related issues during this time that you may not be thinking too clearly. This aspect has the feeling of a rainy day spent under the covers with someone you love. It’s cozy and beautiful for a time, but you can’t live there forever.

Sunday, Feb. 19

Venus Sextile Pluto

Kurt Cobain once referred to himself as a “sad little Pisces.” This connection between Venus and Pluto has that feel to it. This might be a day where you’re processing losses you’ve experienced in relationships in order to ultimately move on and heal. Don’t forget that healing is a process. Pluto is the breakdown that will lead you eventually to the breakthrough.

As always, if you’re interested in diving deeper into what these cycles mean in the context of your personal birth chart, hop on over to my “Book a Consultation” page and schedule a time with me. Every lunation is occurring in a particular part of the chart corresponding to a unique aspect of life. I can help you understand how to make the most of these planetary influences.

In any other context, the Full Moon in Leo can point to a playful, entertaining experience, but with this lunation occurring under direct influence of the planet of disruption, Uranus, expect the unexpected.

All Full Moons are the culmination of seeds planted during the corresponding New Moon that occurred in that sign six to eight months prior. That New Moon in Leo occurred on July 28, 2022. 

Think back to what was happening last summer for you. Were you attempting to start a creative venture at that time? You may have been auditioning for plays, trying to start a website, taking classes to build your skills in a new hobby or interest.

For many, this was a time of affirmation and hopefulness. The Great Benefic, Jupiter, was trine the Sun-Moon conjunction, which may have pointed to certain creative goals coming together with ease. Perhaps a funding source for your project came through or a mentor provided you with a boost. 

Over the last six months or so, this goal or life situation has had time to mature and grow. This Full Moon is the culmination of months of work. Your project is more visible to others now. People are seeing the value you can bring with this new skill you’ve developed.

But the chart for this Full Moon is much different from her corresponding New Moon. The Moon is separating from a trine with Jupiter, perhaps signifying that you’ve received the blessing and support you needed to get started and that influence is now in the rearview mirror. You’ve developed a level of self-sustainability, which is commendable, but now it feels a little scary, as if you’re now in this all alone.

Nearby Venus and Mars are in a tight square. While not directly connected to the New Moon by aspect, this interchange colors the air of this Full Moon nonetheless. 

This aspect can point to a level of conflict in relationships that are perhaps associated with this goal you are trying to achieve. You may have even needed to separate yourself from people, groups or a business that’s no longer serving your ultimate purpose.

And then there’s the disruptive presence of Uranus that I mentioned at the top of this post. Uranus is trickster energy. In the tarot, he’s the Fool card, the archetype of one who has packed his bag for an adventure and is leaving everything behind to pursue his goal.

Uranus is in a tight square with the Moon. This could signify taking an aggressive route to shine and stand out when it comes to this goal or pursuit of yours. It can mean taking a risk, perhaps ruffling feathers or going against convention.

He’s also highly unpredictable. When it comes to your goal at its current stage of development, this Full Moon could manifest as a curve ball. Something disruptive comes out of nowhere and shakes everything up.

Below are some examples of what this Full Moon can mean through the 12 rising signs. 

Aries

With this Full Moon occurring in your 5th house, a goal dealing with children or a creative pursuit is highlighted. Perhaps you’ve been trying to get pregnant and you receive unexpected news that you’ve finally conceived. Or you’ve been trying to land a job as a teaching artist in schools, and you’re notified a job is available.

Taurus

This lunation is happening in your 4th house of home or family. Think of what goals you’ve been trying to accomplish on this front. Perhaps you’ve really wanted to move cities and you’ve been looking for jobs that will allow you to do this. You may receive unexpected news that makes this possible. 

Gemini

With the 3rd house highlighted, perhaps you’ve been trying to build a closer bond with brothers, sisters or relatives. A change in your life may allow this to happen. Perhaps they move closer to you or you decide to dedicate more energy to taking frequent short trips to see them.

Cancer

You may have been toying with creative ways to invest or build your personal finances over the past few months, and now you’re seeing some of those efforts bear fruit. Watch for something out of the blue to shake up your pursuits.

Leo

Have you been experimenting with creative fitness regimens or toying with different diet plans in hopes of building healthier habits? These efforts might be paying off. But something or someone is going to shake things up. Maybe your personal trainer or fitness coach moves and now you need to find someone new to support you.

Virgo

This Full Moon occurs in your dark 12th house. Work you’ve been doing on your mental health may be highlighted. You’ve made a lot of progress over the past few months, perhaps taking up a meditation practice, yoga, counseling and more. Something unexpected may throw you off your trajectory.

Libra

Have you been doing work to build up your relationships with friends? Or putting yourself out there in networking contexts like socials for young professionals? These efforts may be paying off to help you meet new people aligned with your values. Watch for unexpected conflict or someone new shaking up the social scene.

Scorpio

Six months ago, something was happening in your career that left you feeling hopeful. You’ve been toiling away to make this dream or goal a reality, and now the buds of those efforts are beginning to blossom. Something new may take you by surprise or disrupt your plans.

Sagittarius

You’ve been studying hard, perhaps trying to learn a new language or immerse yourself in different world philosophies. Now, everything you thought you knew about yourself is turned upside down by these different perspectives you’ve learned. In what ways are your studies, faith, or religion disruptive?

Capricorn

You’re used to being super practical with money, and perhaps over the past few months, you’ve been working hard to pay down debt or find creative ways to save money. While you like to have everything planned out, this Full Moon can signal a disruption to your financial situation.

Aquarius

With this Full Moon occurring in your 7th house, perhaps you’ve been swiping right on Tinder for a while hoping to find Mr. Right only to end up with Mr. Right Now. The tides have been turning. Maybe you think you’ve found someone who’s in it for the long term. Expect surprising news on this front.

Pisces

This lunation occurs in your 6th house of work and obligations. Think about what goals you’ve been toiling away at over these past few months on that front. Perhaps you’ve been trying to find creative ways to earn a living and decrease your obligations. Something unexpected shakes this up.

As always, if you’re interested in diving deeper into what these cycles mean in the context of your personal birth chart, hop on over to my “Book a Consultation” page and schedule a time with me. Every lunation is occurring in a particular part of the chart corresponding to a unique aspect of life. I can help you understand how to make the most of these planetary influences.

We’re now firmly into Aquairus season, which marks the depth of winter in many parts of the Northern Hemisphere (though not here in Hawaii). Aquarius is often associated with detachment, which makes sense when we consider the ways that we withdraw from the bitter cold to spend more time in our cozy homes. In what ways are you using this month to hunker down and retreat inward to invent what you want life to look like when you reemerge?

This week is a little quieter astrologically than previous weeks. There’s no big event like Mercury or Mars stationing direct or the Sun changing signs. If there is a theme emerging, it’s likely about finding flow and ease in our creative endeavors. With the Sun involved in two key transits this week, watch for the ways in which your gifts are affirmed by others (Jupiter) and how you go about pouring your drive and passion (Mars) into creative pursuits.

Here’s what to watch for this week.

Monday, Jan. 23

Venus Conjunct Saturn (exact on Jan. 22)

This aspect perfected on Jan. 22, but its impact is still very much alive over the coming days. The planet of limits, Saturn, is having a strong impact on our relationships and partnerships, Venus, this week. 

This might be a time when you feel the need to put boundaries on relationships, especially if certain people are running roughshod over you. Saturn often rejects or excludes, so this could indicate a short period of time where you’re saying no to certain people or others are saying no to you. This is happening in the sign of Aquarius, which has associations with groups of people and the collective. Think about what ways you’re putting limits on your friendships, colleagues or groups you’re involved with. This is quick moving transit, so this isn’t likely to be a life-altering situation.

If we think about the Venus-Saturn cycle in terms of the aspects these planets make with one another over the course of a year, this can be the start of a new theme in relationships that will develop over the next weeks and months, with the next chapter of this story expressing itself when Venus and Saturn sextile and square. Venus-Saturn conjunctions are often a great time to launch on a new creative project that you want to last for the long term. Use this moment to your advantage if you have a pursuit you’ve been thinking of starting.

Tuesday, Jan. 24

Sun Sextile Jupiter

You may be getting a helping hand on an innovative project that you’re launching under the influence of this aspect. The Sun is in Aquarius, which has associations with the ideas, our vision for the future, improving the lives of those around us and our need for autonomy. Jupiter is lending his support from Aries, associated with the initial spark that gets a fire going. If you have a creative idea, it’s possible someone within reach can give you advice or point you in the right direction. More generally, your sense of self, your ego, your self-esteem may get a nice boost under this transit. Someone is validating your sense of worth.

Sunday, Jan. 29

Sun Trine Mars

This is an energizing transit that may have you quite active today. This is a highly social interchange, with both Gemini and Aquarius involved. You might be zipping from one party or gathering to the next today, and though it may feel exhausting, the social contact is giving you a positive energy boost. This transit can also express itself in the area of ideas. Perhaps you’ve been kicking around ideas for a creative project, and today with Mars in contact with the Sun, it’s like you finally get the rocket fuel you needed to launch. This is a great day to be a weekend warrior and take that hike you’ve been considering, a new fitness or some other adventure that gets the blood pumping.

Sunday, Jan. 29

Mercury Trine Uranus 

Unexpected communication in the area of work, finances or mundane parts of life may take you by surprise today. This is a positive influence, and with Taurus and Capricorn involved, you may receive news that changes your current outlook on a work- or money-related issue. Uranus is a disruptor, and you may be attempting to solve a problem in your life (Mercury) and receive an unexpected breakthrough (Uranus) that helps you see the issue in a new way. With both of these planets dealing with technology or communication, today might be a great day to upgrade to a new laptop or buy a new phone or gadget.

The Ascendant, or the sign rising over the horizon at the moment of your birth, was considered by the ancients to be the gateway by which you entered into the world. It can signify everything from your appearance to your personality. But did you know it also points toward common health issues you may experience during your lifetime?

Most people are only familiar with astrological signs in relation to the location of the Sun in the natal chart. It’s usually at the stage of encountering their rising sign when clients begin to go through a bit of an astrological identity crisis.

Astrologers — both ancient and modern — continue to see the Ascendant as the place in the birth chart that most describes you. This includes your body type, physical appearance, how you approach life’s challenges, your demeanor, the way people see you, and even your fashion tastes and the fitness modalities you gravitate toward.

The 1st house and the Ascendant are also one of the main places that astrologers will examine when confronting questions about health and vitality. That’s because this sector of the chart is directly related to your body.

A caveat here: Astrology shouldn’t be used as a replacement for proper medical care. It can provide wellness insights, for sure, and help you navigate your overall health by helping you make better choices. However, you should always seek medical attention from a board-certified physician.

To understand health in relation to the rising sign, we’ll lean into the four elements and three classical temperaments of India known as the doshas.

Aries, Scorpio, Leo, Sagittarius

These Sun- and Mars-ruled signs often manifest in heat-related health issues, like rashes, acne, eczema and dermatitis, high or low blood pressure, migraines, anger and rage, and heart issues.

Ayurveda, the medical science of India, teaches that Pitta (heat) needs to be managed through cooling practices, like meditation, slow movement, yoga, relaxation practices, and sufficient sleep. 

Pitta can also be managed through sweet herbs like mint, cinnamon, cardamom, and milk. Avoid foods that stimulate fire, such as peppers, chili, salsa, hot sauce. Instead, bring in cooling foods like beets, salads, cucumbers, and fruits. While sweet foods are beneficial for Pitta, try not to overdo it with processed sugars, candies, and pastries.

Taurus, Pisces, Capricorn, Cancer

These mostly Earth signs often manifest in cold-related health issues, like weight gain, issues with bones, skin or hair, slow or irregular digestion, depression, lack of vitality, sluggishness, isolation and social withdrawal.

They are related to Kapha Dosha and can be managed by taking up heat-related practices like vigorous exercise, frequent movement, and social contact. 

Spicy foods such as salsas, chili, and tomatoes can help invigorate the body and get Kapha moving. You may also want to eat mostly cooked and hot meals, rather than eating raw vegetables or salads, which have a slowing effect on the digestive system.

Libra, Aquarius, Gemini, Virgo

These mostly Air signs (plus Mercury-ruled signs) manifest in air-related health issues like frequent upper respiratory illnesses, insomnia, overthinking and anxiety, nervous system disorders, attention deficit, scattered thoughts, asthma or dry skin issues.

Many of these health challenges are related to the temperament of Vata Dosha and can be managed through grounding practices like slower forms of yoga, meditation, slow breathing exercises, relaxation techniques like yoga nidra and even singing (which is a form of breath practice).

When it comes to diet, it’s best to reduce raw vegetables, processed foods, and caffeine. These foods only serve to stimulate the air element, which you already have plenty enough of. Instead, lean into cooked, grounding meals like stews, soups, rice, oatmeal, and potatoes.

As always, if you’re interested in diving deeper into what your rising sign means in the context of your personal birth chart, hop on over to my “Book a Consultation” page and schedule a time with me. I can help you understand how to use this aspect of your chart to your advantage.

Contributions to the community, acting on your values even when they separate you from others, and putting plans into motion to innovate your ideal future come into focus when the first New Moon of 2023 occurs in Aquarius on Jan. 21

Every New Moon is about planting seeds that will germinate, grow and thrive in the months leading up to the corresponding Full Moon, when these goals come to its maturity. (The corresponding Full Moon for this cycle will occur in Aquarius on Aug. 1.)

With this New Moon ruled by Saturn, the quintessential taskmaster, rulemaker, and stern father, you’ll likely be thinking about ways to break free from the values, habits, and rules that bind and limit you. 

Aquarius is a sign of rebellion, freedom and marching to the beat of your own drum, so this New Moon is about asserting your unique vision for the future. At the same time, Aquarius is deeply concerned with contributions to wider humanity. This New Moon may get you thinking about how you can make a difference in your community.

Here are some key reflection questions to help you begin to shape your goals for this eight-month Aquarius New Moon-Full Moon cycle.

What is holding you back?

It’s sometimes hard for people to believe that the planet of rules, Saturn, governs a sign known for its staunch need for freedom, Aquarius. But people forget that Saturn was the rebellious one, overthrowing his father Ouranos (Uranus) and usurping his power.

Now, I’m not saying you should step all over others to get what you want. Instead, Aquarius is about keeping the collective good in mind while asserting one’s vision for improvement.

With this New Moon ruled by the planet of limits, you might want to contemplate what rules, structures or rigid thinking might be holding you back from creating your ideal future. 

Perhaps your current place of employment doesn’t allow you the flexibility to be available to your children when they get out of school. Maybe the next eight months are about figuring out how to become self-employed and work from home?

Similarly, you may be in a romantic relationship that is beginning to stifle your need for autonomy. Maybe your friendships are beginning to drop off because your relationship has become all-consuming. How can you break free?

How can you connect with others who align with your vision?

Aquarius is a social sign, despite its dogged individualist streak. If there are goals that you hope to reach, but people who don’t serve that vision, how can you find a tribe that is more aligned with your needs?

Let’s say you’ve been thinking about becoming a vegan or vegetarian because of your compassion for animals. Perhaps to help keep you accountable toward this goal, you might want to begin taking yoga classes and meeting friends there who share your values for non-violence.

Or let’s say you want to overcome abuse of alcohol or substances. Joining AA or a group counseling circle will help bring people into your life that help you reach your vision for your best life.

How can I improve the lives of those around me?

Aquarius is represented by the archetype of the water bearer, who makes the long journey to the river bed to collect fresh water that he transports back to the village and community.

This New Moon could be about ways in which you can make a difference in the lives of others. Now, I’m not saying you need to quit your job and join the Peace Corps. There are simpler ways to be the change you want to see in the world.

My grandmother was fond of the saying, “Charity begins at home.” How can you support your family and friends by giving of your time? Maybe it’s by committing to help an elderly neighbor mow his lawn once a month. Or volunteering to coach youth soccer at your child’s school.

Whatever goals you’re making this New Moon, think about how this will support the people around you.

As always, if you’re interested in diving deeper into what these cycles mean in the context of your personal birth chart, hop on over to my “Book a Consultation” page and schedule a time with me. Every lunation is occurring in a particular part of the chart corresponding to a unique aspect of life. I can help you understand how to make the most of these planetary influences.

When the clock strikes midnight and the champagne flows at your new year’s eve party, a dramatic planetary interchange will be underway in the night sky that could tell us a lot about 2023 and its themes.

Astrologers cast what’s called “event charts” for almost every possible life happening, from weddings to the start of businesses. These charts can tell us the nature of the undertaking, what can be expected and how the venture will turn out. And there’s no reason the new year should be any different.

As we ring in 2023, the relationship planet Venus will be in a nearly exact conjunction with the planet of breakdown, Pluto. Just a few degrees away, the communication planet Mercury is retrograde. This will be happening in the sign of Capricorn, which has associations with governmental structures, money and corporations. 

So what could this all mean for the new year?

First, we could see the disintegration (Pluto) of diplomatic relationships (Venus). With the war in Ukraine waging, I do wonder to what extent the United States gets involved more directly. And if it does, will the U.S.’s allies be there to support?

Second, Venus has associations with money in modern astrology, as does Capricorn. Mercury, in traditional astrology, is the planet of markets and the mercantile. Could this interchange be pointing toward a deepening and more severe recession?

Additionally, this may not be a great year for labor union contract negotiations. Capricorn is associated with corporations, and we may see a deepening of anti-worker policies and employment practices that exploit low-wage workers. 

A case in point would be Starbucks, and the organizing by its employees that’s been happening across the country to unionize. Unfortunately, Venus conjunct Pluto and co-present with Mercury Retrograde doesn’t exactly spell victory for the little guy.

In our personal lives, we may want to stay vigilant for ways that good relations breakdown, especially due to misunderstandings and miscommunications. 

Pluto is often associated with secrecy and betrayal. When Venus is involved, this could mean revelations coming to the surface that fundamentally transform our relationships. 

Similarly, Venus-Pluto interchanges are often associated with intense magnetism, unbridled passions, and hot romances. If this interchange is happening in one of your relational houses, like the 7th, it could be possible that you get involved in a steamy fling. If you’re already in a relationship, this may spell taking it to a deeper, more emotional level.

So as the year progresses, keep an eye out for events that fit this Venus-Pluto-Mercury archetype. And if you want to learn more about how this may show up in your life, why not hop on over to my “Book a Consultation” page? I’m here to help you get the most of our astrology’s ancient and practical insights.

You guys… we made it! Despite the months-long Mars retrograde, the prolonged Saturn-Uranus square and an explosive Mars-Uranus conjunction, somehow we survived 2022. 

But like everything in life, there’s always more — more eclipses, more retrograde periods, more life-altering planetary interchanges — that lay ahead. With just a few days left until 2023, now’s the time to set aside the trials and tribulations of yesterday’s astro weather and look to what comes tomorrow.

Let’s jump straight into it: here are the top five astrological events that I’m excited for… and dreading.

1. Mars Goes Direct

The year starts with a bang when Jan. 12 rolls around and everyone’s favorite astrological bad boy, Mars, goes direct. I don’t know a single person who is loving the archetypical hothead grinding his way through Gemini for months on end. If that’s you, seek help. (Kidding!)

Seriously, though, Mars is a planet about drive, impetus, and forward momentum. When he’s retrograde, suddenly the parts of our natal chart where he has rulership come to a halt. 

I know many people who are feeling like business is not moving ahead or conflict upon conflict is piling up in their relationships. Some of the most basic parts of our lives feel like they’ve run out of gas (or are suddenly up in flames).

If you’ve been applying for jobs and not getting any callbacks or dating dud after dud, only to swear off Tinder, your fortunes may just change when Mars gets his mojo back. He’ll still be in Gemini until March, but at least we’ll feel like life is progressing again.

Key takeaway: Drivers, rev up your engines. It’s go time!

2. Saturn In Pisces 

If you’re new here, I’ve been talking about this for a while. We’ve been living in a bit of a Saturnian situation for some five years now, with the planet of rules and structure transiting his own signs of Capricorn and Aquarius. These signs have a way of making Saturn energy extremely serious, stern and hardworking.

Saturn moves out of the realm of ideas (Aquarius) and enters into a mutable water sign, the realm of feelings and imagination. Pisces is dreamer energy — it’s about dissolving boundaries, spiritual ideals and transcendence.

With Saturn entering the emotional waterfall of Pisces, it’s a bit like Professor Snape getting elected president of the local knitting and crochet society. I just don’t see him sitting around with a ball of pink wool yarn clicking together socks with the gals and talking about his feelings. 

But time and time again, Saturn has made this transit and he’s always proven that there is concrete work to be done in the realm of imagination and creativity. In the mid-1990s, the last time he was here, Saturn gave us some of Whitney Houston’s greatest hits, Bill Clinton’s Monica Lewinsky scandal, and figure skating’s greatest soap opera, the Nancy Kerrigan and Tonya Harding rivalry.

Key takeaway: Dreamer, time to get moving on realizing your best aspirations, but expect hard work and a little drama along the way.

3. Jupiter in Aries

This one is a bit of a cheat… Jupiter has been here for part of 2022 before retrograding back into his watery oasis in Pisces only to return to Aries’ hot and dry landscape in December. But now he’s here for good, at least for the first half of 2023.

Sanguine Jupiter is about hopes, dreams and aspirations, and as a member of the fire triplicity, he has some dominion over Aries despite it being ruled by the malefic of the opposite sect. 

Wherever Jupiter lands in your chart, that’s where you can expect blessings and a little luck. This is a sign about beginnings, the initial thrust of energy that comes when you’re stoked about a new project or relationship and you’re giving it all you’ve got. 

With Jupiter coming in wide-eyed and optimistic, you can expect that whatever part of life Aries covers in your chart you will see dreams and hopes becoming reality (or at least the initial phase of it).

If this is your 2nd House, for instance, you might be willing to take a financial risk that has the potential to pay dividends in the future. Or, if Aries is your 10th House, you may be willing to lay the groundwork for a new business that lets you become self-employed.

Key takeaway: Today’s tiny seeds are tomorrow’s flower bed. Get to planting!

4. Venus Goes Retrograde in Leo

The planet of relationships and creativity enters into Leo in June, marking the beginning of a months-long transit of this sign. 

Normally the Lesser Benefic is in and out of sign in about a month. But with her slowing down in Leo only to turn around and retrace her steps, the tiny dancer is going to stay on Leo’s stage for enough time to do some serious work.

She enters her retrograde period at the end of July. Fun fact: every eight years, Venus goes retrograde in the same sign. This means whatever might have been happening in your life eight years ago echoes forward to the present.

Famously the 2015 Venus retrograde period in Leo was when the Supreme Court made its landmark Obergefell decision, otherwise known as marriage equality. I still remember the celebrations in the street outside of the Stonewall bar on Christopher Street (I was living in New York City at the time). 

Retrogrades are about taking stock. It’s possible that people from the past resurface, you spend time coming to grips with relationship decisions you made that you may regret, you go through a period of reconciliation with people you had falling outs with.

This period will be especially unpredictable given Venus hitting a square with Uranus, the planet of instability and surprise, three times during her transit of Leo.

Key takeaway: The past is prologue when it comes to the people and places in your life.

5. Pluto Enters Aquarius

The Lord of the Underworld is entering a transition period, using 2023 to move from his spot in the cardinal earth sign of Capricorn to the mutable air sign of Aquarius. 

Given his slow movement and his frequent and long retrograde periods, he won’t be in Aquarius for very long. He’ll dip in around early March only to retrace his steps back into Capricorn in early June.

Despite the short contact time with the sign of ideas, invention and innovation, this period could still tell us plenty about what his more prolonged period in Aquarius will be about. 

If you have any planets at the early part of fixed signs (Leo, Scorpio, Aquarius and Taurus), pay attention to events that happen in the March to June timeframe. These could be clues to what Pluto’s 20-year transit of this sign will be about.

In Aquarius, this may point to inventions and innovations in technology that catapult society and the collective forward. Progress always comes with its share of death and decay — something has to die for the new to be born.

Key takeaway: Wherever Pluto is transiting is where there will be breakdown that allows you to ultimately breakthrough.

And there you have it. Those are the big highlights for the coming year. Now, if you want to dive deeper into what these transits will mean in the context of your own chart, why not hop on over to my “Book a Consultation” page and schedule a time with me. I’d love to help you time your life with the ancient wisdom and insight of astrology.

The egg-shaped dwarf planet Haumea — one of many Kuiper Belt objects — got its name from astronomers at the University of Hawai'i at Mānoa. Haumea (pronounced How-May-Uh) is a Hawaiian mythological figure who is thought to be the original birth mother of chiefs, royal ali'i in Hawaiian society, and Hawaiians themselves. Is there meaning we can glean from this story to uncover the signification of this celestial body despite astrologers having no say in the naming of the object? Possibly. And that's what I hope to explore in this post.

First things first, let's look at the myth of Haumea before we jump into how she may be functioning in charts.

Haumea, believed to be the earthly incarnation of the goddess Papahānaumoku, is the woman who gave birth to the Hawaiian race. In the same way that Eve in Jewish scripture is believed to be the original mother of human beings, Haumea is thought to be the progenitor of Hawaiians. 

From age to age, the goddess Papa appears in human form as Haumea (she is said to have the power to change her appearance and life circumstances) and gives birth to a chief, ruler or royal figure — called ali'i in ‘ōlelo Hawai’i — who will help lead and guide Hawaiian society. 

The myths associated with Haumea include her intervention into mundane life to save Hawaiians from famine, war and other social ills. She does this by giving birth to a person who will rise up to become a savior or leader. In this way, one potential signification of Haumea the dwarf planet could be the birth of political figures and societal leaders.

Take, for instance, the chart of the late Queen Elizabeth II of England. Haumea is conjunct the Descendant angle, which traditionally represents the marital partner.

Her consort, Prince Phillip of Greece and Denmark, was a leader in his own right, serving in the Royal Navy during World War II. He was one of the youngest first lieutenants in the Royal Navy, rising quickly through the ranks. He was even present in Tokyo Bay during the Japanese surrender.

It is clear from this example that Phillip was an instrument for societal good, demonstrating a sense of duty to country and a desire to improve the world in some way by fighting grave evil committed by the Nazis. 

Could this be a potential signification of Haumea: one who rises up from the populace to help improve the lives of many? I think so.

Former Vice President Al Gore, following his razor-thin defeat against then-Gov. George W. Bush, went on to become one of the primary faces of climate crisis activism. His 2006 book "An Inconvenient Truth" was a clarion call about the damage humanity may be causing to the climate. 

In his natal chart, Gore has Haumea closely conjunct Mars in the 1st House. Mars is the quintessential activist. He harnesses passion and obsession to champion causes he believes in, even when it may ruffle a few feathers and garner pushback.

With Haumea conjunct Mars, it's possible that we get someone whose drive and passion is focused on the common good and improving societal situations, like, say, climate change.

Haumea could potentially point to where we act against the societal good, too. I shudder to use this example because of the grave harm that he did to our common humanity, but Hitler of Germany has Haumea conjunct Pluto in Gemini. 

Hilter used his leadership and power (Haumea) and his oratory and persuasive skills (Gemini) to commit the worst atrocities known to man (Pluto). 

The last queen of France before the French Revolution, Marie Antoinette, has Haumea conjunct Venus in Scorpio. She received the brunt of public animosity for the financial decline of France and widespread poverty all while the royal family lived lavishly. This sentiment is memorialized in the legend that, on being told that the people had no bread, she remarked, “Let them eat cake!” 

Whether true or not, the image of her as a callous ruler lives on. How does this relate to the chart placement, though? Venus is in her detriment in Scorpio. In other words, she's functioning at less than her best. Scorpio is seen as a vindictive, manipulative and cold sign. Venus, however, prefers more sanguine territory.

Haumea conjunct Venus here could point to someone whose leadership is less than ideal, perhaps even antithetical to the common good of society.

There's still much more work to be done to determine just how Haumea is functioning in charts. As a native Hawaiian myself, I am absolutely thrilled to have celestial bodies named in our indigenous inoa after our own mythological figures.

(Quick tip if you want to use Haumea or other asteroids: Use only conjunctions. The outer bodies function best when treated like fixed stars.)

Rest assured I will continue to do research to uncover the signification of Haumea, along with other Hawaiian-named bodies like Hi’iaka, Namaka, ʻOumuamua, and Leleākūhonua. My hope is to one day write a book that sheds light on the mythology of these figures and how their associated bodies are working in charts. Until then, I'll continue to write blogs about these bodies here on Malulani Astrology.

If you're interested in exploring what Haumea may mean for you in the context of your birth chart, why not hop over to my Book a Consultation page. I can't wait to help you time your life decisions with the wisdom of astrology.

New beliefs, aspirations and dreams come into focus during this Wednesday’s New Moon in Sagittarius.

Every New Moon is about planting seeds that will germinate, grow and thrive in the six months leading up to the corresponding Full Moon to occur in Sagittarius in 2023. 

With this New Moon ruled by Jupiter, the quintessential guru, spiritual teacher and guide, you can expect that your horizons will broaden, you’ll embrace new beliefs that challenge your outlook on life, and harness energy to make hopes and aspirations a reality.

Jupiter will station direct in an out-of-sign trine aspect just as this New Moon perfects. With this lunation happening under his auspices, more so are Jupiterian themes of expansion and an adventurous spirit highlighted.

Here's what this New Moon means for you.

New Outlook on Life

Jupiter is never content to leave you where you are. His role is to keep you growing and expanding.

If you already have a well established spiritual practice and life philosophy, expect that new beliefs may come to the surface that challenge what you think you know.

You may already be experiencing the effects of this. Perhaps you've been exposed to a new spiritual practice — meditation, yoga, journaling, breathwork, or a philosphy — that has caught your imagination.

Don't resist! Even if these new ideas and practices are outside of your comfort zone, this is Jupiter working to expand your horizons.

Embrace an adventurous spirit, lean into the new knowledge that is coming to you from a different culture or spiritual tradition and see where it takes you.

Six months from now, you may look back on this moment as the time when you took a chance on a new belief that changed your life for good.

A Jump Start

With Jupiter stationing direct in Pisces as the Moon and Sun conjoin in the sign of the archer, you can expect that the Sagittarius part of your life will get a bit of a boost.

This may be a part of your life that's felt a bit like a car that stalled out on the highway. Jupiter stationing direct is like getting a jump from a kind stranger so you can get back on the road to where you're going.

Take a look at the Sagittarius and Pisces parts of your birth chart. What houses do they fall into?

If it's 2nd House, for instance, you may finally feel like you're experiencing headway with paying down debt and accumulating a bit of savings.

If it's 7th House, you may feel like you and your partner are finally starting to sort out a rough patch and getting back onto the path of mutual love, support and compassion.

This burst of renewed energy and vigor won't end with the New Moon, either. This is going to be part of a six-month story that continues to unfold leading up to the corresponding Sagittarius Full Moon next year.

Hopes, Dreams and Aspiration

The Piscean influence of this New Moon can't be downplayed. Jupiter stationing direct in his own sign is a big deal.

How come?

Well, because he's ushering in a new period of renewed hopes and dreams. 

I know that sounds very abstract and airy fairy, but hear me out.

Retrograde cycles have to do with the relationship between the planet in question, the Sun and our vantage point on Earth. Whenever a retrograde cycle comes to a close, a planet is entering into a renewed relationship with the Sun and us humans. 

With this relationship starting fresh in the sign of Pisces (while also being in a trine with the New Moon), we're getting a big dose of aspirational energy.

You may experience visions of what you want life to look like five or ten years from now. You may imagine a makeover of your relationships, career, family, where you live and more.

Now is the time to embrace whatever idealistic vision is coming to the surface and begin to lay the ground work for a concrete plan to make that dream a reality.

If you've been dreaming about starting your own business, why not use the New Moon to write out the practical steps you will take over the next six months to set you on a course toward making it happen?

All in all, this New Moon is about an adventurous spirit, leaning into the wild and crazy dreams you have about what life could be like and telling yourself that nothing is impossible.

I wish you the very best in making use of this New Moon in Sagittarius optimism.

If you'd like to dive deeper into what the Moon means for your life in relation to your birth chart, why not hop on over to my Book a Consultation page and schedule a time with me. I'd love to help you time your life with astrology.

Everyone is talking about Mars right now.

He's currently blazing a fiery trail through Gemini, retracing steps he made back in September during this current retrograde period.

If you want evidence of the power of his destructiveness, just look at what's going on with Twitter and Elon Musk.

Social media is about as Gemini as it can get, and Musk firing and angering Twitter staff within hours of arrival is about as Mars as it gets.

But this post isn't about what Mars is doing by transit. It's about where he's situated in the natal chart and what he can do to a life.

Out of all the placement questions that come my way, the 8th house (and the 12th) seems to come with an underlying trepidation.

With its association with the darker and more difficult aspects of life like debt and taxes, mental anguish, the occult, and even death, it's understandable when people whisper to me, "What does Mars in my 8th house mean?"

First things first, you're not doomed. No single planet or placement has that kind of power.

For some, that's enough reassurance to click off of this article. But if you really want to delve into the depths of this so-called "dark house," and what happens when Mars resides there, stick around.

Mars Means Impulsivity and Action

The 8th house is notoriously connected to debt. Mars has associations with quickness, impulse, instant gratification and desire. This can make for a difficult combination.

Those with Mars here should be wary about racking up credit card debt and loans, especially when it comes to impulsive purchases. 

Understanding that this could be a part of your hard wiring is half the battle.

Once you know that you have a tendency to swipe the credit card without giving it much thought, you can start to put mechanisms in place to help you be more deliberate.

If you're someone who has already accumulated a good share of debt, the good news is that Martial action will spur you toward paying it off and resolving it quickly, too.

Mars Means Intensity and Passion

The 8th house has connections to the deepest recesses of the psyche. The Greeks referred to this place as metakosmias, meaning the veil between the world.

It is in this house where the mental anguish that comes with loss arises. Death gets assigned here, too.

A person with Mars placed in the 8th may experience a level of intensity and passion around topics like grief, death and dying, and even occult matters like mediumship and spirits.

Tarot cards, astrology, past lives and other taboo spiritual practices may pique your interest. But it's never a passing fad. Mars has laser-like focus and an obsessive quality.

The psyche plays a role in the 8th, as well.

You may notice that your emotional reactions are quick and fiery. Emotionally intensity, outbursts of anger, and bouts of anxiety and depression are all Maritian qualities.

Mars Means Drive and Ambition

When using a technique called derived houses, the 8th house becomes associated with the financial resources of the marriage or life partner. 

This is where an astrologer will likely take a peek if a client is concerned about her husband losing his job and his income.

It's also where we look for financial resources held in common by the couple.

When Mars is in this house we can be certain that the partner is highly ambitious about their finances.

This could be someone who takes risks in the stock market or is proactive about building equity and wealth.

Independence is a keyword for Mars.

So his presence here could say that the marriage partner is the biggest breadwinner in the family, or that the partner keeps his or her finances separate.

Mars Means Cutting and Separation

The 8th house in modern astrology often gets the designation of the "house of transformation."

I, for one, believe the whole chart is a symbol of transformation — our lives are constantly changing in one way or another.

But the 8th house can deal with physical death as well as endings like divorce, separation and loss. Not to mention the grieving process that comes with these.

Mars here can symbolize a certain resilience and decisiveness in the face of change. You may confront these difficult moments with a warrior's mindset.

Mars doesn't back down, he doesn't shrink from difficulties, and he's oriented toward survival.

When confronted with the loss of a family member, breakups, or even a car repossession, Mars will lend a fighting spirit.

You likely possess an innate courageousness that people find admirable. And you find it easy to rebound from life's crises.

If you're interested in learning more about what Mars means in your natal chart, why not hop over to my Book a Consultation page and schedule a time with me. Together we can find out how Mars describes action, drive and impulse in your chart and help you time your life with astrology.

The planet of blessings and benefits, Jupiter, sometimes finds himself in a precarious position in the birth chart.

In astrology Jupiter represents expansion and increase — when prominent, he can create wealth, help people rise to fame, and even make them educated and wise.

He's the god with the golden finger, after all. 

But what happens when he ends up in one of the so-called dark houses?

In traditional astrology, the 8th house deals with some of the more difficult topics of life. Taxes and debt gets assigned here. As does mental anguish, fear, and the occult. The darkest 8th house topic of all is death.

So it's no wonder that those with an 8th house Jupiter worry if they're doomed.

I can assure you that you're not.

Jupiter Means Expansion and Growth

Wherever Jupiter lands in a chart is going to be a place of growth. Jupiter is not content to let anything stay as it is. 

Being associated with higher knowledge and study, Jupiter represents an expansion of the mind and your horizons.

He's the force at work when you're traveling abroad to learn a new language or toiling away in a university library, studying for an advanced degree.

He makes professors, priests and lawyers.

In the 8th house Jupiter is going to expand your knowledge of the darker, difficult aspects of life.

Jupiter here can show someone who's put in the hours to learn the workings of the stock market. He may be an analyst for a hedge fund or a Wall Street bank. 

Similarly, Jupiter in the 8th can speak to someone with expansive knowledge of occult topics, such as mediumship, psychic phenomenon, or spirits. 

Take, for instance, Helena Blavatsky, the Russian spiritualist and mystic who was at the forefront of the Theosophical movement in the 1870s. 

Blavatsky traveled throughout Europe, India and Asia (international travel is a Jupiter signification) studying the mystical practices of different cultures.

She drew on Hermeticism, Hindu practices, Tibetan Buddhism and a number of other world religious traditions (also Jupiterian) to help create Theosophy, a melding of philosophy, religion, and the occult.

The Theosophical Society and Theosophy are now widely considered the precursors and ancestors to the modern New Age movement.

Jupiter Means Generosity and Optimism

Jupiter's placement in the birth chart can also speak to where you experience the most generosity and optimism. 

But reaching a place of hope and giving back to the suffering often means having traveled through your own period of difficulty first. 

Take, for instance, Hollywood and Broadway star Hugh Jackman.

At the age of eight, his parents divorced, which ended up splitting up his family. His mother left Australia with Jackman's sister, while he and his brothers remained with his father. 

Years later Jackman's mother acknowledged the post-partum depression that created a crisis in the family. 

"My mother was not well," Jackman told the Telegraph. "I always hoped she would come back, but I never blamed her for anything that went wrong. At the time, I was miserable and angry, and my brothers and I used to fight all the time."

Mental anguish is often associated with the 8th house. But so are its remedies.

In addition to acting on and off screen, Jackman now spends a good chunk of his time working with charitable organizations.

He's an advisor to the Global Poverty Project, a major donor to Charity:Water, a World Vision ambassador, and a supporter of Broadway Cares/Equity Fights AIDS.

The 8th house in traditional astrology is one of the places that receives the designation of metakosmias. That's a Greek term for the veil between the worlds.

When Jupiter is in the metakosmias, one often displays heightened compassion, a desire to help heal social ills and a need to support the marginalized in society.

Jupiter Means Excess

Jupiter gets a lot of flak for his superficiality — Jupiter does love overindulgence and the extravagant side of life.

So when Jupiter ends up in the 8th house, this could be a cautionary tale about debt.

Now, this is not to say every person with Jupiter here is going to have debt or tax problems. Far from it.

But it is one way that Jupiter here can manifest. And the problem may not be anyone's fault.

Take legendary singer Tina Turner. In the aftermath of her bitter divorce from her abusive husband and musical partner Ike Turner, the Proud Mary singer was left penniless.

She was forced to hand over her share of the duo’s joint property and even assumed massive amounts of tax debts, plus fines for canceled tour dates.

The 8th house often has associations with the financial resources of the marriage or life partner, so it becomes an active house during relationship splits.

Jupiter isn't one to leave you high and dry, though.

For a while after Turner's divorce, she found it difficult to get booked as a solo act. That is until her friends Cher and David Bowie pitched in to help resuscitate her career.

And that's another signification of Jupiter: support.

Wherever you find Jupiter, whether in the 8th house or somewhere else in the natal chart, you can always expect a little help from your friends.

If you’re interested in diving deeper into your natal chart, especially around Jupiter, why not hop over to my Book a Consultation page? Together we can chart a course for your year ahead and help you make sense of what blessings and increases Jupiter has in store for you.