It’s that time of the month, for that special kind of 2020 intensity that late 2020 Astrology continues to deliver through the cardinal crush. Now its Mercury in Libra who is doing the death weave through Mars, Saturn and Pluto territory. Right now, its ALL the hard feels as Mercury IS in a very tough spot and delivers to us messages and information about our relationships and connections to Mars (power, anger, aggression), Saturn (constriction, guilt, fear) and Pluto (control, entrapment).
Mercury, although more prepared for this planetary offensive than other planets, it doesn’t detract from the great deal of discomfort or besiegement being felt over the past few and next three days.
Adding to this funky situation Mercury finds itself in, is also the RETROGRADE factor. As Mercury will be retrograding back to this point or degree during its Retrograde, which begins in October. Meaning, what is happening now especially with regards to our relationship to the above themes will be coming back up in early November, helping reposition and rectify the issues being raised. The information your receiving now about your position around these difficult Mars, Saturn, Pluto themes, is and will change and evolve!
On top of this funky Mercury vibe, the Moon has JUST entered Capricorn, for its monthly transit of all the previously mentioned planetary themes. The Moon in Capricorn is heavily amplifying the emotional intensity of the next few days. So be mindful, restful and do engage with feelings that come up from ‘nowhere’ or any internal or external pressures that are currently rising.
Mercury will connect with the Moon as they both leave Libra and Capricorn respectively on Saturday, exchanging vital intel from both their meetings and interactions with Mars, Saturn and Pluto. Intel is SUPER strong right now, and it’s going to come back up in the first week of November, so engage and communicate with it, there is gold to be mined from this astrology. Although mining has never been a fun or clean business.
Jupiter turned direct in Capricorn over the weekend which isn’t a bad thing, it just not an overly huge thing in the context of it all. Jupiter maybe direct, but extremely limited with what it can do. Jupiter is in a sign it doesn’t relate to in Capricorn as well having to live with the cold, domineering, tyrannous flatmate called Saturn. Saturn is strong in Capricorn, so it’s his way or the highway, Jupiter hasn’t got much muscle flex around here. Pluto is also bunking in there in all his dark cave like qualities. Add to this the aspects to Mars in Aries, and Jupiter direct kind of just means he has to deal with the implications of connecting his gloomy flatmates, and volatile neighbours. Jupiter in Capricorn is hardly the barrel of laughs that Jupiter is known for or enjoys. In 2020 this has been taken to the extreme thanks to the hostility that surrounds poor Jupiter.
Jupiter direct however does mean, that it is moving in the right direction, the direction of getting the hell out of there. Jupiter is now making its way towards his 3rd conjunction with Pluto. The previous 2 conjunctions were April 4, June 30, and the third hit will be 12 November 2020.
Jupiter Pluto is a combination that can have many manifestations, depending on the sign it is occurring in. In Capricorn we can see it via the huge Covid-19 bailouts, which seemed to have helped corporations / business more than the general population. The money thrown around by global governments is Jupiter size huge, but is it going to the people who need it most? In Melbourne the first 2 conjunctions timed pretty well closely to the establishment and re-implement of state lockdowns (remembering Jupiter Pluto are in conjunction for a week either side of these dates). The third hit will be just after the US Presidential election. Jupiter in Capricorn is just amplifying and expanding Capricorn significations such as Government, Control and things that Jupiter doesn’t enjoy.
So, will Jupiter be turning direct do much? Not really, especially since his retrograde cycle is very well established as a part of his cycle. I wouldn’t put too much weight on the direct motion. This is a Jupiter whose hands are bound and is basically out of action until he leaves Capricorn. Post this third date night with Pluto, he makes his way to chase down Saturn. That is its own epic story … that will soon be told. xx
Mars is just 13 days away from its retrograde in Aries and is currently just 2° away from the point it retrogrades at. Meaning, Mars a fast-moving planet whose purpose is to move, energize, activate, inflame and assert its will; is basically standing still in the sky unable to enact any of his normal traits or activities. Moving only 2° in 13 days takes away the ability for Mars to do any of its normal significations, which essentially creates frustration, stagnation and pent up energy beginning to build, and build and build, until the Mars retrogradation on September 11 (AEST).
Interestingly at the time of the Mars retrogradation the Moon will be a waning in Gemini conjunct the north node, and in a tight sextile aspect, giving the beginning of this retrograde a more inflated and fiery quality thanks to the North Node, and the waning cycle of releasing of an air sign moon and its emotions. If there was a match, to strike Mars and the jacked up moreish quality of the north node (rahu) this could well be a potential hotspot, or a cautious date to keep an eye on (September 11th).
Saturn has been and will continue to square Mars. A difficult or challenging aspect in Astrology, a square aspect adds friction to the relationship between two planets, whose general natures are opposing. Both Mars and Saturn are in rulership – meaning they are equally as strong and matched in the fight. Mars moving into a retrograde cycle, makes mars more volatile and un-predictive.
Mars is basically unable to express itself and goes rogue, whilst Saturn is operating as normal, and is all about asserting consequence, restriction, government power structures and control. The Mars Saturn square has been “on” since the 18th of August and begins to cool off at the beginning of October. Returning again in early 2021.
Saturn is the stern parent, and Mars the hyperactive child however this is a Mars whose energy has been so pent up that it’s become unpredictable and is ready to set a light all that is frustrating it. Resistance to Saturn will be strong, however Saturn is all about the long game, and looks to have the upper hand in this scenario. This is the dynamic that is playing out over the next couple of months, so stay tuned in and be on the look-out ! The next couple of months is a bit of roller coaster of a ride. 2020, the year that keeps giving ! Interestingly enough, this all begins to take shape, just as Melbourne is meant to come out of Stage 4 lockdown.
Be mindful of overdoing it or underdoing things, the frustration or burn out from either are unpredictable and real, so is being accountable for it
Understand this is the energy we are operating in, expect aggressions or over handed control mechanisms to be more obvious in your life along with the jostle between the two. Your role is to look after yourself within the bigger pushes and pulls or activations.
Know that this time will pass, but if something pops up don’t brush it aside. Attend to it. Ignoring it for later, isn’t a solution when you’re dealing with such frictive energies.
Being overly aggressive or hostile yourself won’t help; it just draws you into something that will become larger than you initially anticipated.
Le soleil’s transition into Virgo marks the shift away from heights of summer or the depths of winter as we find ourselves transiting into a mutable yin earth energy. The Sun moves away from the surety and centring offered by the fixed fire of Leo that has warmed us over the past month. We are entering into a space of more critical thinking and discernment, with Virgo’s energy. We now focus on the analysis of potential problems and look to create improvements to things we are pulling apart for better understanding of the various components. The Sun’s focus in Virgo is to assist in getting these balancing acts in order from the ground up, bring attention to a more grounded and methodical approach as we prepare for the point of equal light and day with the September equinox.
Mercury, Virgo’s ruler entered Virgo just days before the Sun, making this particular Virgo season more aligned thanks to Mercury’s strength and empowered capabilities. We have a strong Mercury in its rulership & exaltation in Virgo, able to work to its highest function and capacity. This is allowing us to look at the small details, iron out all the information; to get a clearer idea and understanding of the processes and how to implement changes to them, which is one of Virgo’s strengths as a sign. The Sun and Mercury in Virgo together supports what we are growing and nurturing through strengthen and evaluation in a more clinical and objective way. Helping better shape and grow the things we wish to take with us, from the Sun’s time in Leo.
Virgo energy shows us through small expressions, the large impacts they can have in the larger cycles both physically and energetically. Much like the mental clarity that can be gained by a big spring / autumn clean. Strong and simple baseline work, can create and inspire new environments by creating order and room for things to grow and evolve in. Mutable earth is secure and solid ground, yet it informs us that even things we know are solid must change, evolve, adapt and shift to survive. It is with these small yet vital changes and adaptions that allow us to continue on our path, evolving with the situation rather than being stubborn or fixed in our intent or wills.
Whether it be a shift towards the warming of the earth evident by the buds sprouting with spring, in the southern hemisphere; or the cooling in the air and the reddening of the leaves on the trees in the northern hemisphere the Sun’s time in Virgo is to assist with preparation for change, reflected back at us through our environments. Virgo season offers us the ability to ground down, be attentive, be innovative, be present and be able to engineer with strong support, so our plans are focused with the time and attention they deserve, even within the larger scale distractions occurring globally in 2020.
SUN IN VIRGO THROUGH THE SIGNS
ARIES / ARIES RISING
I adapt and evolve my health and daily routines with genius insights and increased efficiency.
TAURUS / TAURUS RISING
My creative passions and true loves are given a boost by pulling apart and experimenting with the methods and structures around how I’m creating.
GEMINI / GEMINI RISING
My home and family are my anchor, cleaning, re-organizing or re-arranging helps shift energy and makes for a more stimulating environment.
CANCER / CANCER RISING
Pulling apart my schedules and making them more efficient helps create more time for the things i love, along with making journeys from a – b, quicker and more stimulating.
LEO / LEO RISING
I put the microscope to my money & spending and see where savings can be made for summer.
VIRGO / VIRGO RISING
I fine tune my physical health and how I present to the world as I get ready for spring and summer.
LIBRA / LIBRA RISING
I explore and examine my communication & speed dial connection with my deepest thoughts and feelings after a long winter.
SCORPIO / SCORPIO RISING
My communities and networks can support me in helping create and engineer more supportive channels around my hopes, goals and wishes.
SAGITTARIUS / SAGITTARIUS RISING
I am the architect and engineer of my career and reputation, I can innovate how this is communicated as well as streamline my environment within these spheres.
CAPRICORN / CAPRICORN RISING
My philosophies, beliefs and learnings can get great benefit from analysing there base and structure within my life. Do these still hold? Are there new learnings and teachings to integrate?
AQUARIUS / AQUARIUS RISING
I focus on a cost benefit analysis to all my external forms of money and resources. Are they efficient and tight as they should be? Resources saved here, could offer great benefit in other places.
PISCES / PISCES RISING
I make more time and prioritize my communications so I can understand and support people I am in close and important relationships with.
The New Moon in Leo on August 19th at 12:37pm AEST comes just after Mercury’s conjunction with the Sun seeding two new cycles in Leo energy, within two days. Leo energy is heartfelt, brave, creative, leadership driven, warm and centring. Mercury’s conjunction with the Sun, burns off all the residue from the previous cycle and rejuvenating Mercury who is tired and worn out at the close of its last cycle.
The Sun in Leo bestows on Mercury the gifts of creativity, artistry, leadership, confidence, positivity and an assuredness rivalled by none. From its connection with the fires of the sky, this is a fantastic time for all creative explorations or being able to access the fun of communication, words, arts, truth and meaning. Be brave and be open to exploring new ways of presenting and communication. Don’t shy away from being seen.
This fiery baptism from the Sun begins a new synodic cycle for Mercury, instilling the qualities of a more creative and heart-focused communications and presentations. Initiating communications will feel more honest and centred around your own personal desires, along with the influence of a childlike curiosity to see things through fresh eyes. Don’t shrink to fit in.
The New Moon follows this lead on August 19that 26° degrees of Leo. The Sun and Moon align for their yearly conjunction much like the Mercury cycles these Leo themes are now being applied to the Moon for a 2-week cycle; until she reaches full light at the opposition in Aquarius where these new themes may be challenged, or evolve in some way. The Moon’s embodiment of this energy differs from Mercury, as it’s a more internal process offering nourishment and emotional re-alignment to Leo themes, allowing our re-identification with them.
Leo energy is bold, its brave, its leadership, it’s the spotlight, it’s the gravitational pull, it’s the attraction, it’s the creativity, joy, and child like curiosity and investigation of things. The Leo new moon seeks to bring this into the emotional sphere to create more sovereignty and autonomy with regards to our health and our emotional wellbeing and prioritizing it. Paying extra attention too or looking at heart health is also good at this time.
The new moon, like the last full moon is the first un-aspected new moon to the eclipse points, new moon in Cancer which was opposite Saturn and conjunct these eclipses points was noted for its heaviness and feelings of intensity and even depression. At this Leo new moon, it’s the opposite. Leo energy is supportive leadership and it’s not afraid to shine, and this new moon along with mercury’s new cycles helps to creates a new connection with your relationship with this…. Enjoy x
The Full Moon in Aquarius on August 3rd/4th is the first non-eclipsed Full Moon since 5th June, hurrah ! we finally get our ritual moons back, on the moons day. The Aquarius full moon is lighter and better for ritual work, as it’s without the heavy, unseen and shady qualities, created by the tight connections to the Nodal points; which were dominant features of two recent full moons making any moon or ritual work problematic and unpredictable*** due to strong unseen variables. This full moon provides a lighter and freer manifestation of moon energy.
Today’s Full Moon also forms a tight T-Square to Uranus a planet full of Surprises, which is constantly pushing for change, development and evolution. Uranus is a planet that likes to explore new pathways and isn’t afraid of traveling the road less travelled, much like the Fool card in the tarot. Uranus is offering up some new ideas or situations at this lunation, making for an interesting 2-week cycle. The Aquarius full moon is a breath of fresh air and full of potential moments of genius, strongly bend towards innovation and change, be open to the ideas when they come flooding in ! Be open to the call !
Image : From Public Domain Review “Cyrano de Bergerac’s Comical History of the States and Empires of the Moon” 1687
*Personalised readings available
*** an example of what was unseen during these previous eclipsed full moons ? In Melbourne what was unseen, was that the loosening of social restrictions at the Full Moon on June 5thwould be reimposed with more force at this Full Moon in Aquarius …
The Sun’s transit through Leo this August breaks up the Cardinal siege which was reactivated in late June and July by the Sun’s movement through the sign of Cancer. June and July spot lit some incredibly difficult terrain and may have highlighted some strong issues and flaws, which need addressing over time, both internally and externally.
With the Sun moving into Leo, the motivation to fix or improve these situations, is stronger and less daunting as we see more opportunities for solution and the increasing assistance on offer, thanks to other planetary supports. The Sun’s entry into Leo on July 22nd/23rd saw clarity and strength come knocking at the door, opening new reserves of energy and inspiration, thanks to the break-up of the planetary tensions currently held on the Cardinal axis (Aries, Libra, Cancer, Capricorn).
The Leo Sun is supported by Mars in Aries, both planets in signs of their rulership, both active planets that LOVE to move and motivate. Mars in Aries shares the same fire and yang energy as the Sun in Leo and in August they connect to each other in a supportive trine aspect. This fire energy brings motivation, vitality and break throughs. This is the beauty of August astrologically speaking, we finally get some movement and traction. August has a lot of yang fire energy which allows us to put our emotions aside and offers strength as well as the resolve needed as we move forwards with 2020’s challenges.
In light of all the heat and friction created by the Sun and Mars contacts all month, we also have Venus entering Cancer in the first week of August. Venus finally completes her 3-month retrograde cycle in Gemini as she shifts into Cancer giving a cooling affect to help temper all the previously mentioned fire activity. Venus will be appreciative of this entry into Cancer, an element (Water) that she enjoys, after 3 months of integration, reform, change and evolution of Gemini themes, stories and activities (communications, networks, social activities, sociability, online presences etc). Venus moves to create a more healing and nurturing influence as she moves over some very tender Cancer territory as well as giving temperance to the extreme heat created by Sun and Mars, helping counter the potentials for burn out.
Mercury will enter Virgo, also a sign of its rulership from the 20th of August, which creates great opportunity for Mercury to do what it does, well! i.e.: write, reading, create, plan, trade, network, analysis and processing. Mercury is our intellect and our acumen, meaning late August will be excellent for Mercury type activities and initiations.
Overall August is a great month, we have 3 planets in their Rulership (The Sun, Mars and Mercury), which means they get to operate in the way they know and act best. Things may still be very challenging, personally and globally, however August does offer some of the best Astrology for 2020, creating space to recharge and tap into The Sun (vitality, visibility and HEALTHY ego centring) Mars (energy, charge, motivation, impulse, physicality and doing) and Mercury (intellect, analyse, communications, reading, writing and business affairs). Perhaps some of the most supportive astrological transits for the 2nd half of 2020, August is a great time to help re-align and bridge as we move towards the challenging aspect of Mars retrograding in Aries later this year.
Below is a sign by sign breakdown on where this energy will be occurring in chart, on a general level. Please note, if you know your rising sign, read that as well. If you are interested in a personalised reading, feel free to contact me direct.
AUGUST MONTHLY HOROSCOPES
Leo / Leo Rising
August brings opportunities to recharge, and shines a light on all you have achieved, what you are going to achieve, and survived in 2020. The Sun returning home, brings its warmth, focus, and nurturing, offering strength and sustenance. Mars, also supports by reconnecting with your belief systems and philosophies. August helps to reignite and centralise by re-affirming beliefs in both yourself and in others.
Virgo / Virgo Rising
Venus creates new resolutions in your career and reputation sector, before shifting her focus, to community groups and social networks. Venus loves connection and harmonisation; this offers some lovely respite after a difficult seven months. Reaching out and becoming more active in your local groups, networks or community brings pleasing and refreshing rewards.
Libra / Libra Rising
The Sun’s light and warmth circulates within social groups, networks and local community. This is where you shine, feeling the warmth of re-connection after surviving a challenging seven months. Having Venus in your career and reputation sector also supports. Venus offers joy, harmony, fun with supportive energy, by bringing things together. Work activities are more pleasurable than usual. Social engagements also offer satisfying rewards.
Scorpio / Scorpio Rising
After a challenging year the Sun lights up your career and reputation sector. The Sun illuminates, providing a layer of certainty and reliability around this area. Mars is strong and your health and daily routine have good traction all month, because of this Mars influence. Real results can be achieved through health and activating that “to-do” list, as we solider through 2020.
Sagittarius / Sagittarius Rising
The Sun activates your philosophy, personal beliefs, and education sector making this August the perfect time to explore, such topic. Are there any courses that have been catching your eye recently? Any self-limiting beliefs that are outdated and need to go? The Sun and Mars are in a great position to support each other encouraging creative hobbies or projects, bringing good teachers, that work in supporting positive expressions, allowing you to let go of things that could be holding you back.
Capricorn / Capricorn Rising
Venus graces your relationships in August, offering a remedy to the pressures you have been under all year. She provides some lovely encounters strengthening your bonds with others. Mars motivates and energizes activities in, or around the home or family. Good for engaging with any home improvements or home based activities.
Aquarius / Aquarius Rising
The Sun highlights your personal relationships, bringing positivity and joy to this area. Opportunities to connect and radiate are abundant. Venus brings pleasure into the daily grind of your daily schedule. Together, Venus and the Sun allow the xsimplest and basic of exchanges in your daily life, creating softer and more enjoyable moments to take focus, within an otherwise challenging 2020.
Pisces / Pisces Rising
Having your daily routines and health sector lit up helps with rebalancing, after an intensive 2020. The Sun adds warmth and radiance as you go about your business which is refreshing and stabilising. Venus makes relations around the home more pleasurable before she shifts to focusing on creative endeavours and children. Venus likes pleasure and is never short on opportunity or experience, answer the call, when she comes knocking at your door.
Aries / Aries Rising
Mars, gets things moving offering lots of vitality and energy. Blowing off steam through physical exercise is a great use of this energy. The Sun sheds light on creative projects, creating passion and enthusiasm, so you might be drawn to put your energy into new such endeavours or ones that have slipped to the wayside. August is very much a month of getting out and doing, after surviving a very stop start 2020.
Taurus / Taurus Rising
The Sun’s focus is on your home, family and ancestors. Connecting to and spending more time focused on these areas and on people, helps nurture and warms after a challenging seven month period. Sprouting new seeds and cultivating fresh connections is beneficial in August. Venus moves to light up and create connections with your local neighbourhood, reinforcing the benefits of investing time and energy in your home, family and local surroundings.
Gemini / Gemini Rising
Venus shifting into your money sector, making those self-gratification purchases way more attractive. A good time to invest in objects or products to either beautify yourself and your surroundings. Venus in your finance house is also useful for attracting more money and earnings. August has real potential to increase wealth and self-value.
Cancer / Cancer Rising
August shines new perspectives or options on the work front with regards to income and to what your worth is. August offers an ability to see more of the opportunities. Mars in your Career sector is the energetic get up and go. Venus moving into Cancer, enhances your visibility by giving you a magnetic quality. Getting out and being able to be seen is to your advantage during August, as you solider on in 2020.
📸Isabelle Hubbert as Madame Bovary By Claude Chabrol
Deep in darkness, restriction and burdens weigh heavy. Hours after the New Moon in Cancer, its effects are heightened with the Sun’s opposition to Saturn. The Sun’s light revealing the cracks, as it pours light from an opposing angle, allowing a new view of what has been bound together and constructed.
This occurring deep in the darkness of the ‘new’ moon, IS hard. Waiting for the moons first crescent of light to hatch, is uncomfortable. When this light is shed La Luna is finally able to help, lessen the intensity of feeling and emotion. Until then, this is where we will be.
The cracks and stress fractures are currently well-lit and obvious. The Sun opposite Saturn makes any weakness apparent, any regrets glaringly obvious. We will be sitting with this, waiting and wandering, lamenting as we gather ourselves for the Sun to progress into Leo on July 23rd.
When the Sun enters Leo, we are welcomed with its warmth and more inspired to play in its light. It is at this time that the first of the moon’s new light begins to shine down upon us. Allowing us to move forward with the insights gleaned over this challenging dark moon cycle. Until then we sit and a wait, processing as we anticipate the return of the King, and the Sun’s entry into Leo.
28th June 2020, Mars moves into Aries, a sign that it rules; for just over 6 months, rather than the usual 8 weeks. That’s an extra 16 weeks of Mars, an active, hot-headed, volatile, aggressive, and sword welding planet, in a sign that it’s super charged in, fun times.
Mars’s elongated transit of Aries is due to his retrograde in September to November 2020. The Mars Retrograde is the trickiest, out of all the planetary retrograde phases. Retrograde Mars is volatile and unpredictable, more so than any of the other planets. The other planets have a more predictable and regular retrograde cycle, not so in Mars’ case. Mars when Retrograde is notorious for its tendency towards extremes and a willingness to engage in hostilities. In most cases it tends to backfire, due to Mars when retrograde, acting in an extremely erratic nature being unpredictable, mis-directed and mis-guided. Aggressive or hostile acts during this time, generally tend to be the undoing of a person or situation. When active and fast-moving planets, like Mars; are forced to slowdown and move in motions and speeds they don’t like or are not used to, they create problems and manifest in unpredictable or unique ways or manners. Mars Retrograde if worked correctly, can give an opportunity to redefine, the rules of engagement, but to what purpose, is important, and it’s still very risky business, especially since it’s so strong in Aries.
The last time Mars was retrograde in Aries was September to November 1941, which was during WWII. During this 1941 Mars Retrograde Period, the decree that all Jewish people in Germany were to wear the Gold Star of David on their clothing and to not have contact with Non-Jewish People was signed and in-acted. The Polish Concentration camp Majdanek opened. The Siege of Leningrad began, which lasted 900 days, with the aggressor eventually defeated. In India, Mahatma Ghandi, urged his followers to begin a passive resistance against British rule in India. (a new technique of resistance, from a person who themselves, had an exceptionally strong Mars). 1941 saw no shortage of very key events, in human history occurring during this Aries retrograde. Addressing or creating extreme violence, repression and hostility, towards innocent and persecuted people, was a strong theme. As intense as these examples are, this was the last historical recording of such a retrograde in Aries. Mars also went partially Retrograde in Aries in 1988, it was slightly tempered with its retrograde back into Pisces. 2020 is the first time we have had a full Mars Retrograde in Aries since 1941.
What makes the 2020 transit of Mars in Aries, especially volatile and hostile, is the continuous aspects, that Mars will make to Jupiter, Saturn and Pluto in Capricorn. Jupiter is weak in Capricorn, so bringing any big vision plans or positive humanitarian focused values; struggles for any influence at this time. Jupiter’s optimism has been dimmed. Saturn and Pluto are coming back online, with Saturn moving back into Capricorn in the first week of July, re-activates the Saturn Pluto vibe and events of its exact conjunction in early January 2020. We saw what a strong Mars can do, when it crossed Saturn and Pluto in February – March 2020, in Capricorn. Things quickly began to spiral out of control at this time. Now were moving into a time where Mars will again be in a strong position to continually activating this, from July – January 2021, rather than merging with this energy, it will be activating it from a more aggressive square angle.
If you have Mars retrograde IN your birth-chart, this is your time to shine. People who have it in their natal chart, tend to get activated and achieve a lot of positive things, during the retrograde time period. This is due to their natal placement being unlocked and ignited. They finally get to harness the energy they have nataly, that is usually hidden, repressed or locked away. Mars retrograde nativities tend to avoid conflict, but when the sky mirrors their natal placement, they finally get to express their strength and might. It’s almost like they build towards each retrograde cycle, to accomplish the next phases.
Things to keep in mind during this upcoming Mars in Aries Period. Watch the burning of the midnight oil and running yourself down. Overextending yourself at this time is a real possibility. This will be a marathon, not a sprint. Making up for any lost time or ground from early 2020, will be ill advised in this next 6 months, things are very much still influx for the rest of 2020. Curve balls will come, so be ready.
Mars is energetic, active and loves to assert this strength via brute force. Saturn, which Mars meets and is also strong in its rulership of Capricorn. Saturn likes to keep a routine, make long term plans and working towards them. Mars is spontaneous energy and exertion, Saturn is calculated, cautious and conservative with its energies. Saturn also likes fiscal responsibility and doing the admin. Mars, is too busy making things happen, bulldozing large areas and thinks about the consequences after. This will be the constant push and pull over the next 6 months. Making sure you keep these two squaring energies in check is very really important for the next 6 months. Saturn’s influence during this time, does however have the upper hand.
Over extending or gambling on an offer or bet, will most likely see you come off second best. Do expect some out of the blue surprises, or any hostilities that do pop up, register and keep a track of it. There could be something more to it. Don’t shy away from or ignore gut instincts. We are getting into some pretty gnarly terrain and staying on guard, without being overly defensive or hostile is extremely helpful. Managing how you exert and replenish your energy is vital. The next 6 months is some of the trickiest terrain we have had to navigate in decades. Keeping all this in mind as we enter the next 6 months will be really helpful as we enter the next phase of 2020.
MARS THORUGH THE SIGNS
ARIES / ARIES RISING
Having your ruler activate your house of vitality, being seen and how you present, might be a double-edged sword. Being aware of not burning out and watching your health and energy will be of great assistance over the next 6 months. Be conscious of how you do and say things, making sure you aren’t seen or interpreted, in an overly aggressive or hostile way, especially when things get a bit heated or stressful. Mars being so visible, may put any anger or frustrations on show, in ways you may not be aware of. Monitor it. How you manage your health and conduct yourself, is of great importance over the next 6 months, as the triggers and frustrations will be there. Don’t take the bait. Conservative approaches, will have the upper hand.
TAURUS / TAURUS RISING
Mars spending so much time in your subconscious, and private realms may see under the surface agitation. Sleep disruptions, maybe a thing, as well as an increase in frustrations, of things you thought you have forgotten about or want to avoid dealing with. Knowing that your subconscious will be activated and churred up over such a long-time frame will be helpful, as you learn to untangle the fuse. You may feel irritable and frustrated, that things or angers you tried to supress, pop back up. But using the determination and energy of a hot Mars to cut through the tangled cords, will be of great assistance. Mars has a severing effect and getting rid of old cords and things that hold you back, might be greatly assisted at this time, but it will unfold over a longer than wanted time frame.
GEMINI / GEMINI RISING
Mars will give a blast of enthusiasm and great momentum to groups, communities and shared activities. Having so much energy in a such a social area of your chart, means this area will be extremely active and energized. You will have lots of reserves to pull from, but it’s easy to burn through it all when your running on adrenaline. Watch you don’t over commitment or bite off more than you can chew. Keep an eye out for hostilities or aggressive behaviour from community and groups. Don’t get dragged into them, as they will pop up. Remember this is a marathon not a sprint. Longer time frames will allow for more success overall, there might be a strong drive to do it all at once. Tempering and thought out action is a lot more productive long term, than running yourself into the ground, because you found a new well of energy to tap into. Boundaries will be important when dealing with community, groups or networking activities.
CANCER / CANCER RISING
Having Mars make its home in your Career, Ambitions and Reputation sector, will make for a hot and active 6 months. Mars in Aries has its advantages but making sure you wield his energy at appropriate times is the key here. Being engaging, active, energetic and enthusiastic around Career and Reputation is important. You are worth it, and you are an asset for any team. But being cool, cautious and calculated (Saturn like) will help balance all this Mars energy, which can be exhausting in itself. Solid friends and one on one relationships will help anchor you as you traverse the next 6 months. Mars will be hot and fiery, stoking passions and maybe resentments. Be mindful of the rays you hurl around any career or reputations that relate to your career. Mars in the 10thcan be difficult but keeping the right checks and balances as well as keeping a positive active role in what battles you want to forge on the Career front are important. Just make sure you aren’t dragged into the wrong battles or the wrong side of opinions. Use Mars to help drive your ambition, without taking anyone else down or out, in pursuit of your ambitions.
LEO / LEO RISING
Mars will spend 6 months burning though your beliefs and Philosophy sector of your chart. Now you have a real chance to get rid of any self-limiting beliefs of things you didn’t think you could do. Mars is set to challenge, your belief systems, allowing them to be re-formed or moulded into a way that allows you to become more aligned with such an abundance of Mars energy. There may be challenges or glitches along the way but proving your own strength and abilities to yourself is one manifestation of this energy. Also powering through any research, study, education, books or publishing would be a positive use of Mars in Aries for so long. Just make sure that you don’t become the hostile one and being overly aggressive in challenging such beliefs in others. Not really the most positive use of this energy, but a possible manifestation.
VIRGO / VIRGO RISING
Mars will be spending 6 months in your area of shared resources and external money sources. Everything needs to be done by the book, with the potential for the odd miscellaneous expense to pop up. Managing outgoings and keeping on top of the admin is of great importance right now. Mars might feel like you are wanting to push forwards with external financial investments. Do your homework, don’t rush in. There are many other unseen variables at work. Mars might make you feel a sense of urgency and momentum around debt and resource. Keeping a conservative view, doing the groundwork as well as not hedging bets on gambles or high-risk ventures right now are good things, to keep in the forefront of your mind for the rest of 2020.
LIBRA / LIBRA RISING
It will be challenging having Mars activating your one on one relationships for 6 months, but don’t let the agitation break your cool. Mars is quick, swift, fastmoving and energetic. You may find yourself surrounded by these kinds of people for the next 6 months. Do beware, low vibe Mars people may also crop up. Hostile, Angry, and Short Tempered, manage your relationship to these people accordingly and make sure you check yourself in these roles as the rest of the year progresses. Keeping a cool head and a good check on your one on one relations keeps you in good stead. Expect challenges, but be the cool detached one in the relationship, no matter how difficult it might be at the time.
SCORPIO / SCORPIO RISING
Having Mars sitting in the house of its joy, as well as being your ruler means you probably have some of the best pickings from this challenging 6 months. Mars rev’s up your day to day & health routines. A great time to smash through the to do list, as well as get physically active and work that body. Just be very mindful of burn out or going to hard. We are in quite an active time, so you might not need to do as much as you initially expect to get good results. Looking after yourself health-wise is essential, and don’t make the to list, do big, to be successful over the next 6 months. It’s all about bite size portions, and not over committing, though over estimation of energy sources.
SAGITTARIUS / SAGITTARIUS RISING
Mars gives good momentum for you over the next 6 months, to pursue and engage with things that bring great joy or creative outlets to you. Making sure the fast momentum and energizing doesn’t get overtaken by frustration or burn out by over committing to such projects. Deadlines and timeframes may need to be longer than usual. There is a lot going on, so make sure you don’t bite off more than you can chew. Just because you love doing it, doesn’t mean you should forget about other commitments over this time frame. Balancing what you love doing and find creatively rewarding, along with the daily grind is key to keeping in balance for the next 6 months. It will do wonders for you overall.
CAPRICORN / CAPRICORN RISING
Mars spending so long in your home and family sector, will be something that needs to be managed and monitored. Mars going through the base of your chart, which also includes your ancestors stirs and agitates the depths. With Saturn in Capricorn in your 1st house, trying to establish boundaries and authority around “Who you are” and “What your identify as/with” vs Mars in your home sector, agitating and stirring up the waters of where you come from and how these things sit together, will be a tricky balancing act. The retrograde, may have you feeling like you’re challenged or moving backwards. Make sure you check your aggression and hostility towards family as you work through all this will be important. Mars in Aries is a pretty big trigger, and with it spending so long in such a sensitive and personal place in your chart, will need management. Making good with it, and using its power wisely is of the upmost importance right now.
AQUARIUS / AQUARIUS RISING
Having a strong Mars, in your local neighbourhood and resource sector, will see hot flashes or little micro aggressions pop up in your local neighbourhood, as you go about your routines. Mars also activates your relationships with siblings. Beware of these flashpoints. Not all aggressions, frustration or challenges need to be brought into. There is a lot going on for the rest of 2020, working out if what pops up in these areas is really worth putting your energy into will be part of the process. Upshot? Getting out and engaging and being active in your local community through sports or exercising in your neighbourhood, is a positive use, of all this physically strong and mobile energy. It may help take the stress off as we make our way through 2020. Be extra cautious when driving over the next 6 months, anything with strong fire power in your day to day neighbourhood should be treated with care, as its all on high rev for 6 months.
PISCES / PISCES RISING
Mars spending 6 months in your Money house, will be challenging. Watching how you spend, manage, invest or earn your money will be where Mars edges his sword from now to January 2021. Mars in your money house, may see more out goings as things you don’t expect pop up, with those annoying one off’s. Expect some unexpected expenditure, keep this in mind so you can monitor the essential and non-essential spending, before these things pop up. However, leaning into a strong Saturn in Capricorn, will be of great assistance. Use your networks or community to help establish strong structures around Money, and how you earn it. Mars maybe pushing you to get out there and earn it. Using your solid network of friends and connections, is how you end up doing it.
Original Collage “Dreamer” by @ry.ryaan (Ryan Aldred)
The Month of May opens, with Venus slowing down to begin her Retrograde cycle, in Gemini (13/14 May – June 25th). Venus’s retrograde is a 6-week process of reshaping, reforming, re-evaluating and readdressing our interactions and relationship to connection, value, relationships and what we love and enjoy or consider pleasure. In the sign of Gemini, Venus creates a more communicative, mercantile (merchant / business) slant to Venus. Venus in Gemini is extremely charming and attractive, making this Venus retrograde feel more alluring than other retrogrades, creating a more optimistic start to a Venus Retrograde month.
From May 1 – May 26th, Venus will be squaring Neptune in Pisces, creating a rose-tinted glasses effect. Contacts for Neptune add a strong layer of confusion, distortion, and strong dissolving of boundaries, and loosening of restrictive forces or boundaries. This creates, a layer of illusion, non-reality and possible false optimism as we begin and start this Venus retrograde cycle. Interestingly enough this is also the time Australian states are expecting to relax social restrictions around Covid – 19, allowing its citizens to begin less restrictive with social engagements. Time will tell, if this is false optimism, or if restrictions will need to come back into play down the track. Either way, Venus square Neptune is very much about the relaxation and dissolving of boundaries, and the relaxation of social restrictions is quite aptly timed.
The Scorpio Full Moon, May 7thcreates an intense introduction to the 2ndweek of May, where we see lots of the energetic shift occurring. Full Moon’s are seen as finishing points, or points of complete fullness. Full Moons can be seen as “prime for the picking “, then begins a phase of letting go and releasing, allowing for a new cycle to begin. Mercury in opposition to this Full Moon, signifies some important information may come your way, to help complete this cycle, or help enhance the ripening of this Full Moon. As its in deep water, intuitive hits have the potential to be strong at this time. Don’t be afraid to listen to them. Also, be wary of any stinging tails coming out, or any spiteful discourse as this is also very possible at this time.
The rest of this month’s important activity keeps its focus firmly in Gemini, meaning Gemini really is the focus point of your chart this month. The Nodal Shift into the Gemini / Sagittarius axis, like the Venus retrograde cycle is also an 18-month transit that, interestingly enough occurs in the same sign. This points a strong finger to the Gemini / Sagittarius axis in your chart.
The Nodes are Sun / Moon points, and the indicators of eclipse cycles, every 18 months they move to a new area of the chart. This creates strong energy shifts, and create a strong emphasis on life themes or topics, of the house’s / area of life they occur in. They are moving out of the Cancer / Capricorn axis (to the relief of Aries, Cancer, Libra, Capricorn’s) lessening the intensity of this already loaded axis. Gemini now see Rahu or the North Node, move into its sphere. The North Node has a desire to consume and at times overdo, things (i.e.: Planets for house topics it is in contact with), creating great drive and momentum, but also the potential for overdoing and discovering when limits need to be set. It’s a more material minded point, but also an indicator for desire to consume and give momentum to this area of life, whether you are initially conscious of it or not.
The South Node or Ketu, entering the Sign of Sagittarius (opposite Gemini) has a more releasing, purging or detoxification affect. The topics or planets in the Sagittarius sector of your chart, will see this influence come into effect over the next 18 months. The South Node or Ketu has a more spiritual slant, less about consuming and overdoing, more about the releasing and purging, letting go, for a lighter and less complicated experience. The Nodes Shift into the Gemini & Sagittarius axis on May 6th, the day before the Full Moon. Giving perhaps more of a dynamic shift to the Full Moon, than if it was a straight up Full Moon.
Finally, the New Moon, which is also in Gemini on May 22nd, may help ground all these shifts, as we take them forward with us, over the next (up to) 18 months. The New Moon will be in aspect to Saturn in Aquarius. This Aspect will help ground and seed all the shifts and changes that occur over this month. Giving a more stable and sure footing, as we begin to leave the month. Creating a very different energy that opened the month. It is from this New Moon in Aspect to Saturn that we are able to start the work or revisions that are so heavily focused upon. With all this activity on both the Gemini / Sagittarius axis, it also brings more activity for the mutable signs in general (Gemini, Virgo, Pisces and Sagittarius). Beginning to even out the load that the Cardinal Signs (Aries, Libra, Cancer, Capricorn) have been carrying for the past 18 months.
May’s Astrology through the Signs:
Taurus / Taurus Rising
The focus for all this re-evaluation and re-connectivity for you occurs in the sector pertaining to Money, Possessions and Self-Worth. This is all re-forming and evolving so best to take your birthday month to just let it do its thing. Big Purchases not great timing at the moment. Allowing your ruler, Venus to activate and reconnect to the above themes will have even stronger results for you, due to her rulership over your sign. Be open to new insights and changes as they occur. The Full Moon in Scorpio, in your relationship sector, allows to see the benefits of your relationships over the past 6 months, illuminating the emotional fulfilment that has occurred over the past 6 months. Enjoying these gems as you enter waning of this Moon Cycle, helping create stronger relationships in the future. Doubling down on your worth and input to such successful relationships and friendships.
Gemini / Gemini Rising
The energetic focus shifts to your physical vitality, your individuation and your relationships with others. Any beliefs or closely held ideas or views, may not be so strong by months end, or in the beginning stages of reforming. Your one on one relationships with others, is where the strong urge to detox, purge, is. It is also intensified with the Venus Retrograde also doubling up on this theme. Try not to over-analyse or intellectualize it, as not everything might not be explainable. By month’s end, it will be clearer what direction to go, and how these processes are beginning to take shape.
Cancer / Cancer Rising
The heavy Gemini emphasis is in your most private sector, your spiritual sector, and where you keep your secrets hidden. I know I have mentioned this before, but this month is where the journey finally begins. Previous to this, it has been prep. The Full Moon hits your house of Children, True Love and Passion, the Full Moon in league with Mercury, allows the completion and the beginning of the letting go and releasing cycle around your creativity, children and true loves. An A-Ha moment at this time will ease the tension or perceived complications around this, allowing release. All the activity in your 12th house, begins to help untangle areas of unconsciousness and your relationship to it, by months end it will really gain some traction.
Leo / Leo Rising
Your Social sector is highlighted this month, ie: social groups, community groups, your audience so to speak. This is a longer work in progress, but by months end, you will see what direction this re-evaluation it is likely to take. The South Node entering your House of Children, True Love and Passion, might see you let go of outdated connections or limiting beliefs around these topics. Making Room and clearing the ground for new creative urges to take place in the space of the old. The Full Moon in your Family, Home and Ancestors sector will be strong and powerful, as it is the anchor of your chart. Letting go of limits that stop your connection to such topics will be supported. The Full Moon with Mercury may allow you to articulate what needs to happen next ie: how you connect with family and your home. Just watch that the famed Scorpio sting doesn’t come out. Having the planet of communication in aspect to a strong Scorpio Moon, stinging or sharp communication is very much a possible manifestation of this; beware to not to inflict it on your family.
Virgo / Virgo Rising
Your Career & Reputation is the channel for all this excessive Gemini energy. There will be a sharp re-focus and desire to get involved in re-aligning and reconnecting with this area of your life. A focus on your relationships in Career and Reputation, and how others view you will be of great importance. Bearing in mind, not to become too hardnosed or obsessive about it. This is not a quick process, use your Virgo vision to mine for data, anecdotal evidence might be strong but there is a level of the unseen influences this month, thanks to Neptune, disrupting & confusing influence to a retrograde Venus. It’s a longer journey than anticipated but allowing the detoxification and release of old energy in your Home, Family or Ancestry sphere, is one way to help balance it all out. The Nodes work on two sides of the same story. Detoxing and Purging stagnant energy or situations in the home, family front, will help balance out the overload of activity on your professional and reputation fronts. Beginning to balance out the imbalances in the home and professional fronts.
Libra / Libra Rising
Travel, strong beliefs / philosophies or teachers are where all this Gemini re-evaluation is hitting your chart. Re-assess, Re-evaluate, Re-connection to such topics begin under a cloud of confusion, and enticing optimism. This is all in flux, with the strongest information for solution’s occurring with the New Moon in Gemini towards the end of the month, thanks to Saturn’s involvement. As this begins to reveal itself, purging your daily schedule, and cleansing your relationships in your local neighbourhood, or with siblings would be of great benefit. The Full Moon in Scorpio in your money sector, may finally give some clarity or info regarding where best to head with regards to your finances. It’s also an opportunity to begin any release of thought processes that limit your relationship towards money or income, thanks to Mercury, the winged messenger’s aspect to the Moon.
Scorpio / Scorpio Rising
Renegotiation of your relationships to other people’s recourses, money, loans, taxes, debts is where the energetic focus is in your chart. In doing this, it has the two-fold effect of helping your personal finances and aiding the South Nodes transit of your personal finances by letting go of old connections and beliefs tied to money, self-worth and your ability to handle and engage with it. Your yearly full moon occurring in your home of physical vitality and how you present to the world, is always a strong lunation for you. With Mercury in aspect to this, expect some great messages or communications that aid, with the waning cycle of this phase. Intuition will be strong but watch your famed tail coming out, at the full moon, as its opposite Mercury, there is always the chance that it pops up, having the communication god, in aspect to it, definitely opens this possibility
Sagittarius / Sagittarius Rising
Having the Venus Retrograde and the Nodes activate your One on One Relationships or Partnerships may feel strong, but it’s all about purification and strengthening at the end of the day. May is a month where clarity is not on offer around these topics, so best to observe and not get in to deep with commitments regarding such relationships. Not a time for rash decisions or going with the unexpected. Confusion and false optimism are strong most of the month, so do take time to evaluate before commitments. The South Node in your sign and transiting through your house of Vitality and how you present to the world, will see all old forms or manifestations no longer valid for you, begin to start falling away. Eating well, and health would be a good thing to lean in to. Energetic detoxing can be draining, and eating simply, and nourishing your body with simple, healthy options would have supportive results, as the South Node, enjoys simple over complex or complicated.
Capricorn / Capricorn Rising
Your day to day routines, health and work life is where most of May’s energy hits your chart. It will remain there after May, but this is the introduction. Venus retrograde Square with Neptune will put these topics in flux. Things may not be as you first thought, when the rose tinted glasses come off. Some sparks maybe lacking but the re-evaluations might come through thick and fast, towards the end of the month. When the New Moon aspects your ruler Saturn, you might begin to feel settled or able to really connect all the dots or themes. The South Node in your 12thhouse, emphasises the advantage of detoxing, retreats or purging for health benefits. Having regular time out will be very beneficial. The Full Moon in your 11thhouse of Community and Social Groups, may see the tides change or shift in your relationship with them, as the waning cycle takes over the next 6 months, making way for new space, new audiences and new groups down the track.
Aquarius / Aquarius Rising
The strong energetic focus on your House of Creativity, Children, True Love and Passions will be an area of constant change and evolution, starting in May. The Venus Retrograde, helps reframe your plans and connections to it. By the end of the cycle, new connections and bonds will have been created. At the beginning of May, this is all still forming, or could have some rose tinted glasses about it. As it evolves, work with it allowing things to evolve and develop. We are looking at 2 cycles working in the same area at the same time. So follow your creative connection, or really engage in your relationship with your children, it will bring great rewards down the track. The South Node in your house of friendship groups, community groups and hopes and wishes will at the same time be activated with a strong detoxification or purging effect from the South Node. Time out from engaging socially and letting go of old or outdated groups will be effortless, as you strive to connect with your creative urges. Helping let go of things that may have previously gotten in your way from your creative, or experience with children or your true loves.
Pisces / Pisces Rising
Having 2 cycles activating the same area of your chart isn’t always easy, but it does highlight the importance of engaging with this area, whether it be by choice or circumstance. Your Home, Family and Ancestors are the base point of everyone’s chart, the place we come from. This is the area activated for you by Venus Retrograde, and the nodal shift. Neptune in contact with Venus in the beginning of the month, might feel comfortable, relaxing and harmonious, but it may not be reflecting the real situations at hand. Once this aspect shifts, it might be a colder or more inhibiting reality check later in the month. Knowing this area is highlighted, allows for room to re-consider, re-evaluate and re-connect with themes such as family and home. The end game, to build a stronger and more harmonious connection to these areas of your life. The Full Moon in Scorpio gives the opportunity to help pick good fruit when it comes, regarding your philosophical approaches to life or help bring helpful teachers to help illuminate your way.
Aries / Aries Rising
Your local neighbourhood, siblings, daily schedule and any online engagements is where all this Gemini energy is hitting your chart. Relationships to these topics is evolving, changing and reconnecting. May might feel like a month oftwo halves in regard to these topics, but knowing they are in a state of changes is half the battle. Not putting too much pressure on these as they evolve is key. The end game is to give greater pleasure and connectivity to these themes, it just might feel a left field as it happens. The South Node, will be purging old belief systems at the same time, helping to balance out all this activity. The Full Moon in your house of other people’s money, loans, taxes etc, will make visible, the next step to take in this area of life. Having Mercury (the business person as well as the communication god) may help solve or give good insight into what steps to take next.
The Bruja Mix 