Intense Times, Intense Transits: The Great Conjunction and The Great Mutation

Yule 2020 promises to be a sabbat like no other thanks to Jupiter and Saturn. Jupiter (the planet of expansion) and Saturn (the planet of contraction) will be meeting on the winter solstice in the sign of Aquarius. As transpersonal planets, these two link us as individuals to the greater whole and represent the part of us that is bigger than ourselves. Typically, Jupiter and Saturn meet about every 20 years in what is called the Great Conjunction. The precise location of where these two meet, and the planetary aspects surrounding them at that time, give us an idea of what the next two decades will bring for us as a collective. It denotes the themes and issues our society will be wrestling with over the course of the next 20 years. The last conjunction occurred during the year 2000 in the sign of Taurus, a sign concerned with material resources and earthly wellness.

In the past two decades, we have been asked to face the finite nature of our planet’s resources, as the effects of climate change come to meet us in the present and worse looms in the future. The insane greed of the rich and the growing wealth inequality in the US became a public talking point thanks in part to the Occupy Wallstreet movement. We settled into a recession through which big banks and corporations were bailed out, allowing the rich to get richer, and leaving the people to suffer. The economy improved for some but left many more behind. And wow, it is ending with a bang! This pandemic has only increased the gap between the poor and the wealthy, as once again the rich are bailed out and little to nothing is given to the people. The pandemic also reaffirms the dangers of not respecting our planet and reminds us that we are truly a globalized world. What happens in one place or another has the power to affect us all. Unfortunately, little about these issues was solved.

The upcoming great conjunction is even bigger news though! It is the kicking off of not only a 20 year cycle, but an 180 year cycle called the Great Mutation. Typically, Jupiter and Saturn meet in the same element for a period of about 180 years. There may be a few exceptions moving closer to the Great Mutation, but overwhelmingly, these two stick to one element. The last 180 year cycle occurred in the element of Earth, bringing us out of the industrial revolution and full speed ahead into an age focused on materialism. Now that age is ending and the dominant paradigms that have ruled our societies for the past few hundred years will give way to new ways of thinking, seeing, perceiving, and being… 

The next cycle will have these two planets meeting in air signs, starting with Aquarius. Clearly, we will need a more humanitarian focus to get us anywhere in this mess of a world we have inherited. We will need to enter the realm of ideas, ideologies, relationships, innovation, and collective freedom. Humans will need to focus on their humanity and their collective power. “Nobody’s free until everybody’s free,” as Civil Rights leader Fannie Lou Hamer so wisely stated. She was a Libra sun, with a likely Gemini moon, and Uranus in Aquarius. Air is here for human liberation.

I have great hope for where we are going. I see positive change through all this darkness. Anti-racist work, social justice movements, growing talks of Indigenous rights and decolonization… In this age of information, so many of us white people are finally becoming conscious of the injustice of our past and present - joining the fight for a future that answers for it. But as you know, we have some excruciating battles ahead of us. Misinformation is radicalizing an incredible amount of folks all over this country. All over this world for that matter!! Just think of the power of T***P and his baseless claims over the years and especially now. Social media giants and their algorithms are helping to destroy truth and keep people angry and ignorant. Groups of people are equating  random jerks on YouTube, IG, Twitter, etc. with journalists, believing outrageous claims with no proof necessary. Following leaders blindly into fear and hatred that manifests into violence and misdirection. 

Technology too, is an area of many goods and evils that will be highlighted. As we advance our abilities and increase our impact on this planet, we need strong ethics and evolving laws that help us to make certain technologies are developed and utilized with the collective good at the center. As I write this on December 17th, I’m learning that Russia has hacked a great number of our governmental agencies and private sector businesses. Hacking and defense of information and technology will definitely be a big issue to contend with over the next few decades, if not centuries. Our social systems also need a great overhauling to accomplish progress on any of these issues. We certainly are not going to meet the future with superannuated senators and presidents well into their 70s and 80s who ignore the leaders in science and technology, while also dismissing the perspectives and worries of the youth! 

So yeah… We have a lot of fucking work to do my friends. The only way we will ever accomplish anything is by coming together. Bringing our individual gifts, insights, and tools and working together for collective change is the great call of the next 20 years. Probably more like the next 180. Because shit is fucked. It is an intense and pivotal time to be alive. This transit reflects that. It acts as a threshold into a new era. And in order to create something new, we must enter the darkness and allow the process of death and decay to transmute itself into the fertile soil in which we can plant the seeds of change. AKA - we are in for big, collective healing work.

On a personal level, think of how you interact with cycles of expansion and contraction in your life. Both of these processes are imperative for a learning, healing, sense of self, and creative expression. Sometimes we need to make ourselves and our lives a bit smaller. Other times we are ripe, ready to grow, and take up space in the world. I’m sure we will encounter many cycles of both. This transit isn’t going to be a single moment of radical change all by itself. It is a 20 year process. You may look back and think, ‘everything changed in late 2020 during the pandemic because…’ But in the moment of the phenomenal meeting of these planets, it is unlikely to be so obvious. I could be wrong though! This year, nothing can be assumed.

Because it is impossible to know the exact details of what this lengthy cycle will bring, I find the most interesting and useful thing to do with all of this information is to set intentions that will allow you to work with the energy coming your way. And of course, if you know which house Aquarius rules in your chart, make sure to look at the area of life that house represents. What is coming up for you, specific to your natal house in which Jupiter and Saturn will meet? What is growing smaller in your life? What is ready to take off? What would you like to see less of? More of? How can you work with these planetary energies to find your authentic voice to add into the sea of collective voices rallying in our vision for a better world? Think BIG. Think about the long game. The hard wins that take time and consistent effort. What is begging for you to begin?

Take care, keep hope, and join the revolution. Let it become a way of life that breathes air into our days and fuels the fire in our hearts. 

Blessed be. 

The Outer Planetary Journey Through Capricorn: A Generation

Introduction

One thing I enjoy about astrology is its ability to speak to themes in history, experiences of entire generations, AND the extremely personal depths of individual lives. It seems there is always an answer in the stars. Personally, I am in the midst of my Saturn return, meaning that this boss planet is returning to the same degree it was in when I was born, at 23 degrees of Capricorn. Saturn returns happen to everyone and are described as a challenging time because Saturn asks you to face what is holding you back. It highlights the areas in which you are out of alignment with yourself and your goals by making these areas uncomfortable. This happens every 28-29 years, which means that everyone born within a few years of me is going through the same thing. Saturn takes 2-3 years to get through each of the 12 signs of the zodiac, but planets beyond Saturn move even slower. Uranus spends about 7 years in each sign, Neptune about 14, and Pluto between 14 and 30. Because these planets move slowly, generations of people will have similar placements in their birth charts. They are the markers of generational trends, themes, and social norms, heralding great change and mass movements. 

I was born in 1990, making me a millennial, and as I looked deeper into my Saturn return, I noticed that Uranus and Neptune were also hanging out in Capricorn around the time of my birth. Generationally speaking, Neptune was mostly in Capricorn from 1984 until 1998, Uranus from 1988 until 1995, and Saturn from 1988-1991. The Millennial generation spans from those born in 1981 until 1996, followed by Gen Z occupying 1997 through 2012. What all of these dates add up to is an entire generation, and the beginnings of another, being born with one or more outer planets in Capricorn and for those born between 1988 and 1991, three planets, creating a stellium. A stellium is when 3 or more planets occupy the same sign, creating a concentration of energy in one area of their natal chart/their life. 

As I mentioned above, Saturn is in Capricorn again, Pluto is there too, and over the next year Jupiter is joining the mix, reigniting the planetary placements here for Millennials and Gen Zers alike, not to mention the babies being born. 

What do these planets have to add to the Millennial and Gen Z experience? Are there answers to the financial crisis this generation is facing in this alignment? How does this affect this generation’s way of thinking? This is an exploration into the meaning of the outer planets through Capricorn and the Millennial Capricorn stellium. First, I will discuss mundane astrology and the outer planets, followed by a literature review on what prominent astrologers have already written about this group. I will then bring in my own interpretation and synthesis of the power this planetary mix offers. Finally, I will discuss Saturn’s return to Capricorn, Pluto’s role as it moves through the sign, and Jupiter’s entrance in late 2019. 

Mundane Astrology and the Outer Planets

Astrology is most often viewed in popular culture as a personal compass. Whether discussing simplistic horoscopes or complex natal charts, the focus is primarily on the individual seeking answers. What is less likely to be discussed is the astrology of the macrocosm: how astrology affects us as a society, group, country, government, etc. Yet, mundane astrology is a rich branch of practice, offering insight into the collective and the personal in a unique way. Through studying the macrocosmic patterns in astrology, we are able to reveal cycles throughout history that describe and give insight into the experiences of the collective.  

There are multiple approaches to mundane astrology, but for this inquiry, I will be focusing on the movement of the outer planets or transpersonal planets, specifically through Capricorn. The outer planets are Uranus, Neptune, and Pluto. These planets move slower through the zodiac, creating a generational affect. Uranus often represents the revolutionary energy of a generation, denoting where a generation thinks outside of the box. Neptune represents the generational zeitgeist, bringing about a new vision. Pluto represents the theme of the deep transformational work of what a generation is here to change. As Caroline Casey puts it, “Pluto, Neptune, and Uranus are the Change Gods, the forces of dynamic transformation who hold the keys to personal and social liberation.”

I will also discuss the planets that bridge the personal and transpersonal planets, Saturn and Jupiter. Saturn denotes how one shows up in, feels responsible for, and works with the restrictions of the public sphere. Jupiter rules over the legal systems, universities, and the philosophical, moral and religious leanings of individuals and the collective. These two planets add individual spice to the transpersonal planets, manifesting in how an individual conducts themselves in the public sphere. In essence, they act as the bridge between the personal planets that dictate an individual’s identity and day-to-day actions to the transpersonal planets that move through the macrocosm of systems, events, and myths we live within. 

When considered all together, these planets - Uranus, Neptune, Pluto, Saturn, and Jupiter -  lend greater context to the political and cultural themes generations move through. They offer a wealth of insight into the collective energy, as well as immense inspiration as to what is possible. They are seeds planted in those born under their influences, whose flowering takes time and maturation.

Capricorn Stellium: A Literature Review 

Between 1984 and 1998, Saturn, Uranus, and Neptune all moved through the sign of Capricorn planting within an entire generation the seeds of collective change. This phenomenon was not missed by astrologers and continues to be a topic of discussion as Saturn makes its way back through Capricorn, along with Pluto, and soon Jupiter too. Steven Forrest, an evolutionary astrologer, made a 45 minute video for YouTube on this stellium. Donna Cunningham wrote an entire chapter about it in The Stellium Handbook. In yet another book, The Astrology of the Macrocosm, Caroline W. Casey devotes a chapter to discussing future political and social implications. Even the popular online newspaper, the Atlantic has weighed in on the importance of this stellium in an article titled “The Coming Generational War,” which expresses the changing political views and political power Millennials and Gen Z will hold in the next ten years.  

Donna Cunningham describes those born under the Capricorn stellium as the canaries in the mineshaft, explaining that this generation is vulnerable to the effects of this country’s dying institutions and therefore sound the warning bell that alerts the others of impending danger. She goes on to say, “they’re scapegoated for displaying the culture’s internal rifts openly.” Because this generation has been hit with the majority of the consequences of the recession, they can’t help but embody the open wound it left. She describes this planetary energy to be prone to depression and anxiety about the future (with good reason, I might add), yet with the dedication and grit to make a difference. Adversity is a great teacher and these struggles come with hope as this generation matures and becomes accountable for the running of their own lives. Growing into yourself takes time, especially for a Capricornian Saturn and stellium. Millennials will mature into their place and find their role in making this difference. Their dreams are bigger and harder to attain than the old idea of going to school, getting a job, and living life according to the status quo. Overtime, they may have the opportunity to create the solutions that will fix the very problems they face. 

Steven Forrest paints a more revolutionary picture of the power of this generation and this stellium. He believes that this generation will play a pivotal role in the coming transits of Jupiter, Saturn, and Pluto through Capricorn. He points out that while the astrology of the moment is powerful in the present, it also plants a seed in those born under it, stamping its signature and coming to further fruition as the seed blooms in these maturing adults. Because Capricorn rules over government, Forrest believes this generation holds the vision for a new world order, calling them the ‘paradigm shifters.’ As this population matures, we will see much more of their influence in politics and the cultural conversation. He points to one exceptional and exciting influencer of this generation already making waves, Alexandria Ocasio Cortez who was elected to Congress in 2018.

When Caroline W. Casey wrote about this stellium as it was happening back in 1989. She believed that this powerful alignment of planets would support the possibility of breaking free from broken dreams and disappointments, allowing us to look at the future as something we create instead of something coming at us. To her, this alignment represented a chance to look ahead and take responsibility for creating a compassionate vision of the future and making it happen. She describes Neptune in Capricorn as allowing for the dissolution of the economic structure that is focused on greed and self-interest. Working with Saturn in Capricorn helps break us out of our fear. Uranus and Neptune combined in Capricorn help us leave behind the idea that pragmatism and idealism are contradictory. It is through the combination of pragmatism and idealism that we are able to pave a new way, one that believes in the possibilities of doing things differently. Though it may have not come to fruition then, the ideals still live strong in the generation born at this time. 

Beyond astrology, there is a generational rift growing between older and younger generations today. Niall Ferguson and Eyck Freymann point out the starkly different views of the Millennial and Gen Z generation from the Silent Generation and the Baby Boomers in their recent article in the Atlantic. Their research found that for people between the ages of 18 and 38, policy ideas like Medicare for All, prison reform, student loan forgiveness, and the Green New Deal are at the median of their political views. Newly elected members of congress (14 Millennials and 32 Gen Xers) are dominating policy discussions. They believe that this is because these generations have never experienced a good economy – strapped with toxic debt and net household worth down by 40% compared to Boomer’s, there is little else to do than to seek another way. While these generations don’t trust the government as it is now, they support more government regulation. In my opinion, this is because we believe the government can be reformed in a better vision as exemplified by policies discussed above. The authors explain that if voting turn out stays the same, it won’t be until 2028 that these generations will begin to sway elections. Hopefully, 2020 proves them wrong and the planetary energy puts a fire under the youth’s asses and they get out and vote.

I turn now to my own ideas of what this stellium means for those of us in the U.S. born under its influence.

Capricorn Stellium: A Revolution

Capricorn:

Capricorn is the sign of ambition, economics, maturity, conservatism, and authority. It is a sign that gets things done, works hard, and is pragmatic. Capricorn believes in discipline, integrity, and tradition. In a patriarchal worldview, these ideas can seem harsh. Yet, Capricorn is an earth sign and its values go beyond the materialistic and capitalist culture it is pitted against. Following traditions does not limit the sign to those of the patriarchy. The material world is the physical earth more than it is money or success. Integrity is aligning one’s heart with one’s mind and actions. Responsibility means the ability to respond to what needs to be done. For the Millennial and Gen Z generation, these ideals hold a very different meaning than for those that preceded them. The planets aligned here allow for a new path of ambition, economics, and conservatism to emerge. 

Saturn:

Saturn is the planet of responsibility, restriction, mastery, and time. Saturn in Capricorn may be partially to blame for the financial burden and restriction placed on those born under its influence, though this affect stretches into the generation before and beyond its few year stint in the sign. It can leave one not feeling good enough or able to make a difference. Yet, with the influence of Uranus this energy feeds the dissatisfaction with a corrupt society and the drive to seek change. Saturn builds more strength in us over time. This planet helps us to author a new world, put in the work, and seek the solutions necessary to create a society that is integral with what we value. As Saturn returns through Capricorn, we are beginning to see more and more Millennial influence in the political sphere. 

Uranus:

Uranus is the planet that rules over civil disobedience, riots, revolutions, awakenings, and tearing down structures. It is a planet of liberation at any cost. In Capricorn, it offers the rebelliousness necessary to demand satisfying, happy, and creative lives that are in integrity with mother earth. It allows us to hold the systemic failures accountable, to see how these failures keep our ideals from the masses. It brings in a questioning of authority that allows for the transcendence of cultural narratives around what our financial, legal, and governing possibilities can be. It brings with it an experimental drive, worrying less about success or failure and more about finding out what works. It requires that we speak our truth, that we disrupt that which is not integral to our beliefs, and make the changes necessary to create a truly free society.

Neptune:

Neptune is the planet of vision, imagination, illusion, spirituality, compassion, connection, and faith. In Capricorn this planet helps us compassionately idealize a new government and way of being through which equality can be realized. It allows us to dream possibilities into reality. As Steven Forrest says in his video, ‘reality is a dream,’ meaning that our perception and vision is what reality is made of. Fantasy and vision share a fine line. Many call progressive platforms like the green new deal, reparations, student loan forgiveness, etc. fantastical impossibilities, but Millennials and Gen Zers see them as a vision into the future. Neptune brings faith to Capricorn, helping us to believe in a government that serves all, to trust in the good that lives in one another, and that together, we can create the changes we seek. 

Synthesis:

Capricorn is said to be traditional and conservative. It is often assumed that the traditions being served will be that of the patriarchy or that conservatism looks something like the conservative party today. But with Uranus as a major influence here for Millennials, we have the opportunity to deviate from the norm. Neptune too, brings the power of imagination to new visions of what is worth conserving and what traditions are worth hanging on to. There are traditions older than capitalism, older than the notion of nation-states and profit over people. There are ancient traditions of living in harmony with the land, of having compassion for others, and believing in human stewardship of our resources. There are new traditions to create. There are things worthy of our collective attention and conservation efforts  such as a livable planet, home gardens, working as a community instead of for a corporation. In order to do so we need a new vision for new cultural practices. Perhaps intuitively, Millennials are getting into gardening and houseplants, learning to preserve, pickle, and forage their own food in growing numbers. 

Capricorn is said to be a sign that believes in conformity and reformation. When conforming leads to disappointment and heavier weight, it is time to reform. It is a sign that believes in integrity and responsibility. Combined with Saturn, the planet of restriction, mastery, and ability to respond, those born under this stellium feel the weight of the world as their burden and that it is their responsibility to make a difference. Capricorn believes that our work should be our life, our life our work. For those of us with Saturn, Uranus, and Neptune here, our careers must be transformative, inspiring, create change, and ultimately give back to society. Yet, when a society does not offer fulfilling career options AND financially burdens an entire generation - there is an overall feeling of restlessness. This restlessness combined with the incoming influence of Pluto and expansive Jupiter in 2020 will have this generation demanding a different kind of future than the one this country’s trajectory is offering.

Thankfully, Capricorn is a sign that is able to overcome adversity. Millennials and Gen Zers may be one of the most financially screwed generations in history, struggling with mental health issues and the burden of saving the world from ecological destruction, but they are also hopeful, resilient, and progressive. Ambitious and in it for the slow climb, this Capricornian energy keeps these generations in it for the long haul, looking towards the future of many generations, and they are only beginning to wake up and come into their maturity and power.

2020 & Pluto

Pluto:

Pluto represents reinvention, transformations, power, obsession, destruction and rebirth. Its affects are sweeping, forever altering. Pluto in Capricorn calls for a rebirth in the way we view the material world, the way we govern our systems, and a redistribution of power. A reclamation of authority is in order. As this planet highlights the charts of those with transpersonal planets in Capricorn, its call is loud and exigent. Things need to change. Our futures depend on it. Millennials and Gen Zers are paying attention and are an ambitious bunch. They aren’t asking for one or two changes in policies. They are talking about complete overhauls against corporate greed, policies and political agendas that focus on conserving the planet and create equality no matter your race, gender, sexual orientation, ability, or class. 

2020:

There is no question that we are living in a time of political upheaval. The current cultural climate is charged with a polarizing divide between the right and left, the republicans and the democrats, between the older and younger generations. Generational conflict has been a major talking point in politics and cultural discussions these days. Boomers and Millennials seem to be especially pitted against one another. And for good reason. Statistically, the political beliefs between the two generations vary considerably. With the 2020 election on the horizon, this power struggle is at the forefront of conversations around the democratic election.

The stars point to this intensity too. Saturn and Pluto will be conjunct in early/mid January 2020 in Capricorn. Bill Herbst describes these two together as reactionary, while Uranus and Pluto are revolutionary. Herbst predicts that together, Saturn and Pluto will create absolutes, polarizing the political climate further with each side responding defensively. With issues like climate change and immigration, we can see already that this is true. Yet, for those with Uranus in Capricorn the revolutionary energy is also present along with the reactionary. Millennials and Gen Z are reacting to the political injustices by supporting (and maybe with Pluto’s help they will start demanding) revolutionary solutions. 

Jessica Murray points to the last time Pluto and Saturn met in Libra in 1982 at the beginning of trickle down economics. She explains that this cycle is coming to an end and starting over with this new Saturn and Pluto conjunction in Capricorn. The last cycle brought us extreme wage disparity and the beginnings of the Occupy Movement in response. She predicts that this cycle will bring further consolidation of power by big corporations and with Jupiter’s help, give more power to our judiciary system. 

What both of these astrologers missed is the effects of Jupiter and Pluto highlighting the charts of Millennials and older Gen Zers. Will the youth show up to make their voices and ideas heard? I believe so. Pluto gives us a chance to take power back and Jupiter offers inspiration to put faith behind bold ideas that promise a more abundant future. Even if this isn’t our election, our numbers only grow and the need to act only gets more intense as injustices accumulate and years go on.

Conclusion

Maybe Millennials were never meant to have the same opportunities as generations before. Maybe this generation was meant to lead the world into a different realm of possibility. All of this collective Capricornian energy is a chance to redefine success. To rename what material possessions are truly valuable. To rediscover what it means to live in harmony with our planet. To work for a future that benefits all. To build something different with compassion and vision at its center. There are few greater teachers than adversity and challenge (Saturn). There is little more important than making a difference in this world (Uranus). We will need vision (Neptune) and a redistribution of power (Pluto), but it is possible. It is even in the stars. 

Sources

Casey, Caroline W. (1998). Making the Gods Work for You. New York, New York: Three Rivers Press.

Cunningham, Donna. (2013). The Stellium Handbook. Retrieved from: http://www.londonschoolofastrology.co.uk/doc/Stellium.pdf

Forrest, Steven. [Steven Forrest Astrology]. (2018, October 8). The Awakeners - Capricorn Reporting for Duty in 2020. [Video File].  Retrieved from https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rrFNdKjsYSQ

Casey, Caroline W. (1989). Dreams and Disasters: Patterns of Cultural and Mythological Evolution into the 21st Century. In J. McEvers (Ed.). The Astrology of the Macrocosm. (383-403). St. Paul, MN: Llewellyn Publicatons.

Ferguson, Niall. Freymann, Eyck. (2019, May 6). Retrieved from https://amp.theatlantic.com/amp/article/588670/

Herbst, Bill. (2018, December). The 2020 Jupiter-Saturn-Pluto Alignments. The Mountain Astrologer, Issue 202. 33-37.

Murray, Jessica. (2018, December). Seeing the Big Picture: Working with the Transits of 2020. The Mountain Astrologer, Issue 202. 25-32.

The Wheel of Fortune

It is a waste of our time to continuously ask why in a way that expects the answers to solve problems. Why are we here? Why does this happen to me? Why now? Why not this? Why not that instead? These questions simply rail against fate and solve little. These questions cannot be answered with logic, with science, or with any sort of universal assurance either. And honestly, the answers are simply not for us to know. It’s not the point of life and the answers may not even exist anyway. Getting stuck in this sort of conundrum only leads to blame, shame, and guilt - further stagnancy and resistance to the many possibilities that exist for us in this life. 

We must learn to accept that we are not in complete control of our fate. And paradoxically, we are absolutely the creators of our own stories. You can’t control everything that happens to you in this life, but you can control your reaction and your perspective. The tarot’s Wheel of Fortune serves as a reminder to stay humble, present, and grateful in the midst of your ever-changing circumstances. Within it all - the good and the bad -  is the very sustenance of life. These paradoxes nourish us, guide us, and move us.

Where the Wheel can make us miserable is when we don’t accept life as the process it is OR, even worse, we get so egotistical as to think that we can rise above it, trick the wheel, or stop its turning. 

The Wheel will keep on turning. Our best bet is to flow with it. Our rigidity and resistance will only leave us crushed beneath its weight over and over again, clinging to the same old placement, the same old shit. 

Growth is learning to work with our restrictions and limitations to make the most out of the infinite possibilities that this wheel grants us. Joy is in accepting the spiraling nature that is our human journeys. Transcendence is in both the rise and fall. Revolution is in the turn. 

Be with the ride, flow with the tide, else peace be denied. 

Full SUPER BLOOD BLUE Moon ECLIPSE in Leo

Wow. As the title suggests this moon is a big DEAL. When the moon is in Leo, she brings us a boost to our ego with a spoonful of optimism. She asks us all to take on and embody our magic, our essence, ourselves. This energy helps you own who you are in wholeness, light and dark, as a mind, a body, a soul, and a heart combined to make a powerful, rich and incredible human being. YOU are incredible, a gift, a piece of magic and divinity. Dance in your being. Trust in it. Bring forth the witch and alchemist within. Believe in the magic you of who you are and use your uniqueness to take action in this world. You are here to help create and manifest a better world for all. 

This Eclipse is a part of the larger Leo/Aquarius cycle we have been moving through for a year or so. This cycle has consistently brought to the surface the dichotomy of the ego and the collective, our individual needs and the needs of the others, our personal confidence and the empowerment of the group, our privileges that come at the cost of someone’s oppressions. The struggle between the greed of the few and the collective call for an equal and viable future is present almost everywhere we turn. And may I say, perfect timing dear universe. 

Settling into this powerful energy, I pulled two cards. I smile at their reveal as I'm greeted by Temperance and the Magician. Perfect alignment. We are at our most powerful when our hearts, minds, bodies, and spirits are aligned. From this place, we are able to use all of the tools we've been gifted from the universe and those we have developed for ourselves. We are able to experiment, mix them up and shake them out in all kinds of different ways with confidence. This is how we create miracles, art, progress, love, and innovative possibilities. How incredible could life be if we gave ourselves the power to actually stand in and stand for the tools that live within us AND others? This is how we make a lasting impact on the world.

This moon isn’t all smooth sailing though.

Our powerful, sacred moon in Leo will be opposing our dear planet of love and beauty - Venus sitting in Aquarius. Oppositions pose a challenge and like all challenges, this one offers a wealth of wisdom. This opposition is a challenge to seek alchemy through love, granting us a beautiful chance to balance our individual confidence and self-assurance with our love and duty to care for the collective. So often we live in dichotomous mindsets, believing that these aspects of life are fundamentally opposed (introvert vs extrovert for example), but going a bit deeper it is clear that these two important puzzle pieces fit together. For nothing you do as an individual is yours alone and anything we do as a collective affects us as individuals. We are in a constant dance and conversation between the two and they feed one another. 

Venus in Aquarius reminds us how much we gain from one another, from sharing, growing, learning, seeing, hearing, and struggling together - this IS love. There is so much joy in being with other beings and allowing yourself and others to be exactly as they are without interruption of judgment. Being in opposition to the Moon in Leo, we may find our egos at odds with this kind of thinking and instead, we may be tempted to turn towards unhealthy competitive, comparative, jealous, insecure, or even vindictive thoughts, actions, or emotions. 

If that happens, use this energy as an opportunity to become present to these compulsions and catch them before they take root. These kinds of ideas come from living in an individualistic culture. Confidence, magic, the work we are called to do, accomplishments, growth - these things are not finite. We do not need to feel inferior because others appear to have more or less of these things in their life at any given time. For one, it’s a cycle - we all get our highs and lows. For two, you have your own journey and the universe has plenty in store for you, all you have to do is grab hold. When you operate from emotions like jealousy, insecurity, greed you bring everyone down with you. When we are not complete and whole with ourselves, we are not truly present to others and it hurts our ego and takes away the opportunity to be in connection with another. 

So how do you build yourself up, embody your wonderfulness without turning into an ego monster? How do you get out of anxiety, insecurity, and inferiority in the presence of others? Venus in Aquarius shows us the way through detachment. It does everyone a disservice when we get mad or disappointed in our people just because they don’t act or say or do exactly what we want or expect of them all the time. Detach yourself from such expectations. People are people, just as you are. You can’t meet everyone’s expectations all the time either. Things don't always have to go your way, and thank goddess they don't for that matter. Allow yourself to dance with life and the people you share it with instead of trying to control or manipulate the world to fit your exact view of what you want it to be. 

It takes practice. But with it, I believe we can truly allow ourselves and others to be. When we don’t throw our judgments, expectations on one another, we free ourselves from our own about ourselves. Ever heard the saying, 'what you say about others you are really saying about yourself?' Our insecurities about ourselves are extremely present when we are judging another. What if you let that go? What if you focused instead on the badass that you are, the growth you wish to manifest for yourself? What if you focused on what you love about the people of this world and took it upon yourself to be a part of their growth? We are in this together. There is room for us all to bloom and thrive. It is up to us all to empower ourselves and others. 

Let's be done with shame and unhealthy competition. Let's create a world of equity, love, support, harmony, and opportunity FOR ALL. We can only accomplish this as a collective and it starts with our personal growth. Remember the wise words from 2nd wave feminism, the personal IS political. The personal IS the collective. Own your badass self and support others in owning themselves. 

Welcome to the age of Aquarius bitches. 

Blessed Full Moon!

Renew: Full Moon in Cancer & Grand Water Trine

Review <3

New Moon in Taurus: Tarotscope & Spread

Taurus season is truly the sweetest of them all, in my earthy opinion, and this new moon should prove to be as sweet as the sign she is in. With no planets aspecting the sacred dark moon, she is free to root into the incredible comfort, security, and pleasure of the bull. What a gift to us all!

If I could recommend only one thing for you to do during this sacred moon, it would be to simply make some time to seriously ground and stabilize yourself. It’s been a challenging year for us all: tumultuous and scarring, shocking and jarring, fucked up and terrifying... But this is a moment to catch our breath and sink into what grants us comfort, what makes us feel secure, the simple and small pleasures that remind us how great it is to be alive. This is a moment to connect to our spirituality, to really feel into the blessing that is being supported by a truly magical planet and universe.  

I cannot stress enough how important being connected to our spirituality is for our mental health. Even those who accumulate material wealth and/or public recognition will experience lack if they do not fulfill their spiritual needs. Isn’t it incredible too, that if we reversed the situation, one would still hold fulfillment. That is the power of the spirit. Often, rhetoric and spiritual teachings seem to disconnect the spirit from the earth, as if it is above and beyond, but it is a part of this planet as much as it is a part of anything in this universe. I think one of the challenges we must meet in this physical life is the grounding of our spirits into this earth and our bodies.

During this earthy season, and especially during this new and dark moon, we are asked to pay attention to and seek what makes us feel stable, secure, and comforted on this planet and in our bodies. There are many material answers to this question, all of which absolutely have the possibility of granting you some fulfillment and comfort - as long as the spirit comes with it. Taurus is of the earth element, of the material and physical, but this does not mean detached from the spirit. I think it is quite the opposite.

It doesn't require much to prove that there is a deep relationship between the spiritual and the physical. For one, our spirit is within our physical bodies and we connect to the spirit through our natural and physical world. Taurus takes us deeper, wanting us to experience the spirit in everything, to delight in the simplest of pleasures, to take comfort in the bloom of a flower, the rising of bread, the dawn of another day, the brewing of tea, a sweet caress from a loved one... There is powerful magic even in the most mundane aspects of our lives if we simply take them in and hold them for the wonders that they are.

We are sold a lot of lies that tend to distort our relationship to the material world. In our capitalistic culture, material wealth consists of shallow, detached relationships to arbitrary numbers that don’t really support us - they support consumerism. I think a lot of us are waking up to the dynamic and complex ways we can truly find wealth for ourselves. It is within our healing, within kindred connections, within holding gratitude for our earth, and within our relationship to the divine (just a few examples). And instead of manifesting into dollars, we manifest this rapture into activism, art, poetry, wisdom, kindness, generosity, organic and sustainable food, a love of nature, philosophy, prophecy, etc. This is why there has been such a spiritual uprising. This is the return of the divine feminine, of deep and meaningful relationships to our planet, one another, ourselves, our bodies, our emotions, and the spiritual.

Let us take a moment on this glorious new moon to reconnect with this reality. Let us use this energy for creating and establishing a lasting connection to a foundation within ourselves that supports our vision for a fulfilling, just, and grounded future.

Below is the tarot spread I designed to add to your new moon ritual and personalize the interpretation above. I highly recommend grounding and greeting all four elements before you begin to shuffle. This new moon is dripping with sweetness and so should you as you shuffle your cards. This is a very special and important moment for you to return to a place within that is secure, comfortable, and safe. This is a time to pause and to build or tend to our most imperative foundations: those of our mind, heart, spirit, and body. Be sweet and kind to yourself as you ask for guidance and interpret your cards.

I wish you a sweet, safe, and divine new moon.

Laying Sweet Foundations: New Moon in Taurus Spread

April 26, 2017

Foundational and Grounded Mental Strength: What truth can I return to to keep me grounded mentally? What does my mind need to feel stable and secure?

Foundational and Grounded Heart Strength: What keeps me emotionally fulfilled? How can I consistently connect to my emotions and intuition?

Foundational and Grounded Spiritual Strength: What keeps me inspired? What creative foundation can I always return to when I get stuck or off track? How do I refuel my connection to myself and the divine?

Foundational and Grounded Body Strength: What is necessary for my body to feel strong, connected, grounded, and at home? What practice can I always return to to find comfort and security?

Nurture: What do I need to nurture within so that I can keep in strong connection with my foundation?

Comfort: An action I can take to feel nurtured, loved, and supported. A point of peace of mind, body, and soul. Sink into it. Let it nourish and revive you.

Gratitude: How can I practice gratitude daily to keep connected and aligned with my foundations?

Connection: How can I reach out to the divine and others when I am struggling and when I am triumphant?

The Direction Of My Highest Good/A Message From My Higher Self: How can I keep reaching towards my highest good? In which direction should I point my efforts?

PS: I’d be delighted if you shared your interpretation either publically (tag me of course) or privately to continue this discussion. Sending you love and light.

Love,

Cascadian Witch  ☾

Here is how my own reading went: 

Foundational Grounded Mental Strength: 5 of Wands

It may have been the absolute worst thing for my mental health a few years ago, but today a good challenge does wonders for my mind. It reminds me that I am able to hold my own in the face of a challenge, it teaches me where I can improve, and shows me how far I’ve come. I should be seeking challenges to keep myself in good practice.

Foundational Grounded Heart Strength: The High Priestess

Of course. It is no secret that I keep in best connection with myself and my emotions through my spiritual practice, through diving into the depths of the unconscious and shadows. The more that I am able to honor and listen to the divine within, the stronger my heart will be, the healthier my emotions, and the closer I will remain to my intuition. By nurturing my own desires for the mysterious, I am able to nurture others and encourage their own.

Foundational Grounded Spiritual Strength: The Crone (Hermit)

Along with the High Priestess, I think the divine is trying to tell me that my solo, quiet time is imperative to my centering and grounding. I must regularly come back to myself, dive deep into my own personal study, and learn in my solitude. Self-reflection and deep contemplation are the pillars of my spiritual development and mental health. The wisdom of the Crone is key for the re-charging of my energy and spirit: to return to the dark, return to my cave, find my center and heal. This is something I will try and remember to do when I am with people for more than a day. I must make the time to retreat back into myself, into my internal haven. Though it may not always feel safe, it is always home.

Foundational Grounded Physical Strength: 9 of Swords

As far as this card may seem from the subject of physical strength, it’s message came to me as clear as day. By facing my fears through my physical being on the trail, I am able to practice healing my mind, heart, soul, and body all at the same time. Fear has had a lot to do with my recent absence from the harder, quieter, wilder trails. I get in the habit of getting way too stuck in my head that I seem to leave my body behind and fear takes over. The simultaneous practice of mental and physical strength that happens for me while hiking makes me feel embodied while also strengthening my mental game. It is absolutely necessary to my physical being and grounding. It is also the anxiety, worry, and mental strife that takes its greatest toll on my body. Being mentally healthy and physically healthy requires both working together for me.

Nurture: 7 of Swords

Through nurturing the part of myself that sabotages my attempts and plans to do what I want and be who I wish to become in this life, I am able to heal and reintegrate this part of myself as an ally. I am particularly good at second-guessing myself into stagnancy. This is a habit I probably picked up as a child for protection. If I’m never able to decide on the idea or words I wish to put forth, no one can persecute me for them. By giving this part of myself extra love, I can start to change the mental patterns that allow it to govern my mind into a pattern that trusts my own voice. I must remind this part of myself that I am not afraid to be different or misunderstood. I am much more afraid to continue hiding from who I truly am.

Comfort: 7 of Cups

I have this habit of telling myself that I am not sure what I want. Or I'll want to do too many things at once and then end up doing nothing. I can learn to work with this part of myself instead of fighting it. I think it is an incredible skill to be interested and focused on many things, especially when you can synthesize them together. And this is something I am particularly good at. I should take comfort in this skill of mine instead of seeing it as a detriment.

Gratitude: 3 of Wands

It is important to be grateful for the opportunities I have been given in this life and I'm grateful to be taking necessary steps toward my long-term goals. By reminding myself to be grateful for each step closer, I am able to find greater joy in my work. And what a blessing it is that my long term goals line up with the foundational advice for my mind, heart, soul, and body.

Connection: 8 of Disks

Through developing and sharing my skills as I continue to practice writing, tarot reading, and other mystic skills, I'm forging a connection with others and the divine. My work IS the connection! Which brings me right back to the card before, being grateful that this is the line of work I have chosen. Now, I simply must keep making connections, reaching out to the divine, and keep honing and developing my skills.

Direction: Son (Knight) of Cups

I am meant to keep following my creative ideas. I meant to explore my inner depths to find wisdom, to heal wounds, to create art, to share what I discover with others. I have the ability to blend my intellect and my emotions and this allows me to express myself in a way that others can use, relate to, and learn from. Paraphrasing the description from Motherpeace, I am meant to bring visions to the world as a gift from the deepest part of myself.

This reading has left me with renewed clarity and concrete ideas of how to practice self-care. I realize that if I do not nurture my foundations, I am not able to build a strong and sound structure. Through making sure that I tend to my alone time and spirituality, I am able to keep grounded enough for the practice of challenging myself. I realize that my ‘problems’ need to be nurtured, not fought with. I connect to others and the divine through the very work that I do and I am meant to share my journey. Woah. I feel centered, nurtured, AND grounded. I’m grateful for the soft, determined, and earthy vibes of this new moon and the Taurus season in general.

Blessed be. 

Full Moon in Libra: Tarotscope & Spread

Full Moon in Libra Spread: Balance & Sacrifice

Moon in Libra: Where do you need to seek balance in your emotional life? In your creative life? In your relationships to others? Where do you need to stand up for yourself and where do you need to check yourself? Use this as a tip for better mindfulness and balance within yourself.

Pluto in Capricorn: What do you need to dismantle from your life in order to move closer to balance? What is in the way of your harmony? What do you need to let go of?

Uranus in Aries: Where do you need to focus your passions and fire? What outlet will best serve your frustrations and anger? How can you prioritize your inner-fire so that it fuels your vision of the future?

Jupiter in Libra: Count your blessings! This card represents what gifts you have been given from the universe. What goodness do you need to focus on and cultivate in your relationship to life and your relationship to others?

Sacrifice: What must you give more of or give up in order to reach inner-harmony and balance? What can you give or give up to work towards balance and justice for others and this planet?

Connect: How can you reach out to your community? How can you be a stronger ally to those you are in relationship with? How can you be a better ally to those who are treated less fairly in this world? What about to mother earth? How can you build a stronger connection to others and this planet?

Resist!: What must you fight to keep from being stolen from you and others? Whether you are fighting the system, bad habits, another person, a company or what have you… This card is about defending your right to a more balanced/harmonious life and resisting that which may try and convince you otherwise.

Through the Doorway: What does harmony look like for you? What would it be like to know it intimately? Let this card be a vision of hope, an inspiration, a goal for a better future for you and for us all.