inset-venus

Originally uploaded by luisfernandoaranguren

Overview: With Venus retrograde (see my last forecast for more info) and a solar eclipse, the next two weeks will be fairly busy with some unexpected experiences. The eclipse on 5/20 is followed by a lunar eclipse on 6/4 (they usually come in pairs) and during the period between them, things can change up quickly, which can be difficult for our egos. Venus retrograde encourages us to reach out to old friends and people from our past to process and think through the changes. With the Gemini energy, it’s good to look at your options and shift the current storyline, but it can be difficult to stay grounded. If you feel scattered, get outside, get your hands in the dirt, whatever helps you feel present and connected to your body and instincts.

5/16-17…We are easily able to apply past experiences and work to address a current project. We may be overly ambitious in terms of the results we expect. Modify the expectations, not what you are doing.

5/18…The moon in Taurus urges us to check into our instincts and senses. What messages is your body sending you? Turn down the noise and create some space to really listen.

5/19-20…Solar Eclipse in Gemini…Eclipses in general tend to bring up new information and can feel chaotic. Material from the personal and collective unconscious surfaces to be integrated, which can challenge our egos. The information that emerges during this time challenges our status quo; there is a dissonance between appearances and the deeper truth that needs to be addressed. Gemini helps us to look at our options and breath a new sense of curiosity into current situations. With Neptune square the nodes, our current judgment may be off, as we are cast off from and old way of thinking but have not quite adjusted to a new path. Stay grounded, present and mindful with what’s before you.

5/21-22…Our minds are very active. Take some time to get the messages just right, seek feedback from others. There may be a few conversations we need to have to talk through whatever came up with the recent eclipse. It’s likely others may take your messages literally, so make sure to distinguish between processing ideas and brainstorms and an actual plan. Good days for visualizations and affirmations of what you’d like to manifest for yourself, especially in the financial department.

5/23-24…Our emotions are catching up to the shifts our minds have been working on. You may feel vulnerable/sensitive; take some time for self-reflection and self care.

5/25-26…Past story lines are catching up with us and are like clothes that just don’t look right but we still have hanging in our closets. Resist the temptation to hold onto limiting beliefs: release them to create space for a new look and a new attitude.

5/27-28…The pace quickens, bringing an active couple of days. We are ready to make a move in a new direction, and the fresh exhilarating.

5/29-30…Course corrections are in order with current plans. Don’t get discouraged, more will be revealed after the solar eclipse on 6/4.

5/31…Plan some time to connect with friends and loved ones. We are in the mood for some relating and catch up time with members of our support system.

May flower.

Originally uploaded by northerntourer

Overview: The annual spring full moon in Scorpio on 5/5 promises not to disappoint, brin5ging passion and a willingness to more fully realize our truth and loyalties. This time period will bring up some strong emotions, and some good news and opportunities on 5/13 bring a magnanimous attitude to put that passion into action to nurture our resilience on all fronts. Venus turns retrograde on 5/15 turning the focus on our relationships.

5/1-2…With the moon in Virgo, focus on improvements and utilize your attention to detail in your current projects.

5/3…The focus turns towards our partnerships in all areas of our lives. Where do you need some balancing? Are there roles that need to be clarified? Pay extra attention to the relationships that are working well for you right now. What can you learn to bring to those connections that maybe aren’t working as well?

5/4-5…Full Moon in Scorpio…During the spring, this full moon marks a time of deep transition and transformation. The Scorpio/Taurus axis highlights what we desire and what needs to change in our lives. Focus your attention on accountability in your relationships, particularly where it concerns power, money, and intimacy. Wherever our actions aren’t mirroring our values are opportunities to bring more mindfulness to our decisions and how they impact others. Expect some unconscious dynamics to be brought to light and honor what could be some strong truths which if you let them will guide you to deeper authenticity. We are at a fork in the road concerning a long standing pattern. Take care not to put your head in the sand and keep in mind small changes can yield significant results.

5/6-7…Take some time to process the full moon. Get outside and out of your normal routine, even if just for a few minutes. Watch how your expectations start to form around some options you now have before you. Take note of them while holding the awareness that not all opportunities are meant to come to fruition.

5/8-9…Mercury’s entrance into Taurus brings a steadiness surrounding our communications. Allow some extra time to get important messages just right before hitting send. Don’t rush others to get to a point or jump around too much. Providing some structure and specific goals greatly improves ownership of those involved in your projects.

5/10-11…The edges are naturally softened around our communications. Inspire and offer compassion with your messages. Our attention to detail is not high, but we are able to share our hearts more freely.

5/12-13…Expect a surge in your practical welfare. See where you can cultivate a sense of abundance in your external circumstances.

5/14-15…Venus turns retrograde on 5/15 through 6/27. About every 1.5 years Venus appears to stop and go backwards from our vantage point on the earth. The last time was during the fall of 2010. This period is a great time to finish unfinished creative/artistic projects. It’s also a great time to review our emotional needs and financial affairs, which often are more linked than we let on. Spending time connecting with old friends is also a wonderful way to utilize a Venus retrograde period. This is not a great time for major financial purchases/investments or starting a new relationship (unless it’s rekindling a relationship with someone from the past). Whereas in a Mercury retrograde we don’t have all the information we need to make a decision, with Venus retrograde we haven’t fully processed the emotions and impacts on others to make a major decision during this time through late June. As Venus is in Gemini, we’ll need some time to talk it out and explore our options. You may feel like a fair weather partner/friend, feeling one way one day and the opposite the next. The assumptions and stories we make up about other people will be tested and any limiting boxes we put on our hearts or the hearts of others need to be updated. Give yourself and others permission to discuss situations as ideas with a curious, open mind. Careful to trying to pin someone down; Gemini is air energy and it needs to circulate.

Daffodil Time 2011 20

Originally uploaded by whitebuffalobk

Overview: With either Mars or Mercury retrograde from Jan 23-April 13, the first part of this year has brought much reworking and improving that which we had already started. The good news is that the next two weeks of April offer new spring growth. The fertile Taurus new moon brings some tangible rewards and opportunities for our lives to better mirror our values if we are willing to allow our notions about security to change and better reflect the current state of affairs.

4/16-17…Think back to early March/late February. What projects/communications were you trying to move forward that may have stalled or slowed down during the past few weeks? We are now in a better place to take the ball and run with it. But make sure you clarify the agreements with others involved so everyone is clear on his/her role.

4/18-19…With the sun entering Taurus and the moon in Aries, simplify and take methodical steps forward.

4/20-21…New Moon in Taurus…Taurus provides an opportunity to get good and grounded in our values. We may need to take a closer look at our relationships and other conversations to see where they embody those values…and where they do not. Strong messages/insight turn up that push us out of some stuck places.

4/22-23…The initiative and clarity lift our sails to move forward on some plans/projects we’ve been working on since the end of 2011. Enjoy the integration and results of your hard work. You may surprise yourself with some out of the box thinking on where to go next.

4/24-25…Brings some provocative, potentially edgy information. Use this energy to get down to the bottom of a current issue. The underlying political/power dynamics are more obvious now. Strategize your next move.

4/26-27…Take some time to play and create. What are you most excited about for this spring? Pay attention to what your heart is leaning towards.

4/28-29…Some tangible rewards come from prior hard work. Consider all of the steps that have gotten you to this point.

4/30…Use the practical attitude to make some needed improvements in something that impacts you every day.

Chick hatching from egg

Originally uploaded by trahvis

Overview: With both Mars and Mercury retrograde during this period, it’s time for some deep spring cleaning. Tackle that garage, shed, closet, car, garden etc. You’ll feel better by liberating yourself from items and clutter that may be weighing you down. It’s easier to let go and clear our inner world when we lighten up or physical world. The renewal and revitalization of spring is upon is and to get there we first need to create some space.

3/17-18…This weekend we are in an experimental mood. Make sure to veer from any set routines to freshen up your perspective. On 3/18, our minds are going fast and furious and ready to blast through limitations with an innovative solution. Allow your independent and authenticity to shine. Just be careful of committing to a direction without first vetting your approach for feasability and long term success. The devine and the devil are in the details, do due diligence and discernment are needed with takes more time than we currently have the patience for, but well worth it.

3/19-20…Happy Spring Equinox! The days are getting longer, shining a light into some nooks and crannies we have been avoiding or just couldn’t see in the winter darkness. With our current attention to detail and desire to act, clean out the corners and cobwebs to make way for spring growth.

3/21-22…New Moon in Aries…
Ready, set, go! Burn through past limitations that are no longer relevant. Make sure to get enough exercise to channel the restless energy. If you find your temper flaring, see what it’s trying to tell you about what’s important to you versus lashing out or stuffing it immediately. This energy is a powerful force, and can be either tool or weapon. There’s plenty of momentum to clear out fears, doubts, and self-imposed limitations, so use it!

3/23-24…Mercury’s move back into Pisces on 3/23 brings some needed gentleness adn cooling to the Aries fires of late. Make amends or forgive for any toes that got stepped on in the past few days. On 3/24, plan to tackle a project or activity that will ultimately liberate you.

3/25-26…The moon in Taurus brings some needed grounding. See where you can simplify, invest your resources wisely, and keep a steady pace.

3/27-29…You can’t make an omelet without breaking eggs. And if you’ve resonated with this forecast for the past few days, then you’ve set some changes in motion. Don’t be surprised if you encounter round two with some fears/past limitations. We are ready to let go, but might also be just as scared of setting off in a new direction. Any obstacles that show up are tests of our commitment and may point to where we need to build a strong foundation. With both Mars and Mercury retrograde, a measured, organized, and flexible approach is needed.

3/30-31…A review of current commitments comes up in the face of making needed changes. We can’t slide back into a comfortable groove, which leaves leaning into discomfort in order to expand oru awareness and opportunities.

copyright 2012 by Liz Kirkham.

Seed

Originally uploaded by Pan.101

Overview: During the first two weeks of March expect a delay between a plethora of new ideas and action forward. Even though it may test our patience, we must take some time to evaluate so that we can be confident that our values and experience match with our next steps. As a gardener plants additional seeds to ensure a healthy crop, we are coming up with extra ideas, knowing that not all of them will grow to full maturity. Just make sure to document your thoughts and brainstorms. Mercury is retrograde from 3/12-4/4, making it a good time to do spring cleaning and clear out clutter so we can be better organized and streamlined. If you find yourself impatient or irritated, make sure to get some additional exercise. Speeding will get us nowhere fast, as the saying goes, even though it’s very tempting with Mercury in Aries.

3/1-2… March starts out with lots of ideas and messages. Careful of charging after one before you have a done an inventory of the strengths and challenges of your options and how they align with your values.

3/3-4…This weekend we are challenged to get out of a rut, but also to have patience with ourselves and others as far as changing habits. The shifts required will eventually help balance out some dynamics in our relationships that are due for an update. Channel any anger that comes up into positive action. Careful of projecting your needs onto another.

3/5-6…Brainstorm some actions steps. Pay attention to where your passion and enthusiasm come alive. Careful of alienating others with radical statements that are more in the idea realm rather than reality.

3/7-8..Full Moon in Virgo…Mindfulness and a willingness to take our confidence of mind and break things down into their composite parts. Virgo puts an emphasis on health, reminding us we are what we eat. In a larger context, pay attention to your appetites and what nutrients you take in, whether it’s people, environment, media, emotions, or diet. Where can you better align what you ingest on a daily basis with your values?

3/9-10…Continue the work of balancing and changing up old patterns. Reflect on where you’d like to be better organized and celebrate progress you’ve made thus far.

3/11-12..Mercury turns retrograde in Aries on 3/12, which ushers in a period of tying up loose ends until it turns direct on 4/4. In this sign, Mercury teaches us how to be direct and courageous in our communications, but can end up combative, impatient, and intimidating if not properly directed. Mercury retrograde offers up a space to examine our true intentions underneath the messages we are trying to get across. When we focus on inspiring others to act, the results are transformative. Our minds are eager to take on new adventures and brainstorm. Create a space to explore and debate and agree on some ground rules to you don’t end up spinning your wheels on arguments over miscommunications.

3/13-14…Some of the results and benefits of the work we’ve done around our heart and in relationships becomes evident. Offer a grateful heart and acknowledgement of the support you’ve received to get you to this place.

3/15-16…The powerful abundance theme continues as a result of past efforts. Enjoy the magnanimous attitude in the air and continue to recognize yourself and others who contributed to the outcomes. On 3/16, take some time by yourself to work on projects and get through the to-do list.

Listen to the Sunset

Originally uploaded by Ben Heine

Overview: During the last two weeks of February listen to your intuition for guidance on where you want to grow and expand this spring. We may need to surrender and let go of prior careful planning, but don’t lose track of being accountable for the overall picture you are passionate about. In March, Mercury turns retrograde, so use these two weeks to initiate anything new you want to work on in March and also anything new with your communications and technology. If you don’t feel like your messages are coming across in the way that you would like them to, take a minute to get clear on your intention and emotional space and try again.

2/16-17…Let your mind roam free. Conversations are generative and focus on opportunities. Just make sure to set some concrete goals and steps.

2/18-19…The Sun enters Pisces on 2/18 and then conjuncts Neptune on 2/19, which means it’s going to be a dreamy weekend. Go with the flow. Spend some time in nature and take breaks to nap and meditate and daydream. You may need extra rest, as our spirit may need some more time in the dream world than usual. Restore and replenish yourself.

2/20-21…New Moon in Pisces…Pisces energy softens and opens us up. Where in your life are you being asked to surrender and let go? This new moon is a good time to set intentions around compassion, peace, and forgiveness. Where do you need a little more grace? It may be difficult for us to match up our worlds with our intentions, especially when criticism comes our way. If you feel overwhelmed, take some time by yourself to ground and clear your spirit. Pisces helps purify and cleanse when our senses are overloaded.

2/22-23…Be methodical and give others the benefit of the doubt in your communications. If you or others start acting from a victim mindset, redirect to a more solution oriented approach.

2/24-25…Stretching towards a goal is rewarded with some opportunities for expansion.

2/26-27…Follow the intensity and single-minded focus. Enjoy the synergy and depth you are able to experience.

2/28-29…Blow some fresh energy in the focus of the last couple of days. Play with ideas and perspectives to learn more about the various dynamics.

wingedheart_closeup_Dreamer

Originally uploaded by Didee’s Art Cupboard

Overview: The next couple of weeks bring an exploration of the heart. In many indigenous cultures spiritual and emotional health depends on a full, open, clear, and strong heart, according to Angeles Arrien, a well known anthropologist and author. When our hearts are full, we feel passion and motivation. If we feel unenthusiastic/indifferent, we may need to remove ourselves from a situation. When our hearts are open, we connect with others easily. If we feel defensive or resistant, we may need to see where we can soften and open. When our hearts are clear, we move forward with a pure intention. If we feel confused and doubtful, we may need to wait for clarity. When our hearts are strong, we have the courage to express ourselves authentically. If we feel timid or lack confidence, we may need to connect to what is true for us. Consider all these chambers of your heart and choose one to focus on in the next couple of weeks. Check out the book The Four-fold Way, by Angeles Arrien for more information.

2/1…The month starts out with Venus, the planet ruling relationships, opposing Mars, the planet of desire and action. While this can lead to fireworks, you may also find yourself switching from feeling loving and cooperative to irritated and feisty and back again. We are being shown some ways of being in relationship that may be due for an update. Careful of criticizing others (or yourself) as our hearts are very sensitive. Better to adjust your position than make demands on another.

2/2-3…The planet Neptune enters Pisces, where it will stay until 2025. The last time Neptune was in Pisces was from 1847-1861. Neptune rules Pisces, so Neptune is transiting through home territory. With its journey through Pisces it brings the magic of the mystical world, where ideally we share our common humanity and reverence for all beings. The flipside can be escapism and denial. My hope and dream for the next 13 years of Neptune through Pisces is that it may help us better understand and experience compassion on all levels and increase our awareness of the level of interdependence we have to all living things.

2/4-5…Follow urges to nurture yourself and others this weekend. Use the sensitivity in the air to treat your senses with high quality care and tenderness, but careful of over indulging as we are particularly sensitive.

2/6-7…Full Moon in Leo…All the World’s a Stage…Leo asks us to fully participate in our lives and express the peaks and valleys from our hearts. A story that started at the end of June may be reaching a climax. What are the current plot points? Cultivate playfulness over drama in what you are experiencing. 2/7 is a great night for creativity and performances of all kinds.

2/8-9…Focus on specific, actionable tasks. Organize your efforts to have a better impact. On 2/9, some feisty, freedom loving energy presents itself. Take a risk in your relationships to promote a healthier environment for your vitality to flourish.

2/10-11…The weekend launches with a social Libra moon. On Saturday we may find ourselves brooding over some deeper, long term dynamics.

2/12-13…Intuitive messages…Pay attention to your communications. We are able to synthesize structure and order with our deepest longing and connections that we hadn’t noticed before.

2/14-15…Hearts aflame…This Valentine’s Day we are asked to look at some deep feelings surrounding the love we have in our lives. If there are any power imbalances that need to be addressed, expect some colorful, honest communication to help bring greater intimacy into our lives. The softer, romantic aspects of love are usually highlighted to celebrate this holiday. But honest to goodness intimacy can be scary, transformative, ecstatic, and empowering. We may need to let go of some patterning to bring greater authenticity and creativity to our relationships. In the end, this allows all of us, whether single or attached, a more expansive and healing experience of love, in all of its forms. Consider the six different kinds of universal love: love between mates and lovers, love between parent and child, love between colleagues and friends, love between teacher and student, client and therapist,etc, love of self, and unconditional, spiritual love.

Organized embroidery floss

Originally uploaded by curiousmess

Overview: For the next two weeks the focus is on alignment. Wherever we have gotten off track in terms of doing things that may not best reflect our values will become glaringly obvious. Reclaim something of value from the past with an organized approach. Don’t be afraid to ask for advice if you don’t know what to do. There are many practical solutions to the issues you face now, and you may want to retrace your steps to look for clues as to what the best move is for you.

1/17…After trying to play fair yesterday we are ready for some strategic maneuvering.

1/18-19…Rolling rocks uphill…Think back to mid-October. What were your spending your time and energy on? Perhaps a long term project? You may be struggling with an apparent obstacle, but keep the long term goal in mind and conserve your energy. Sometimes waiting it out and taking the time to get organized leaves you better set up for the long term than, well, rolling rocks uphill. Even if you lose a little face in the process.

1/20-21…Friday starts off with a fresh slate as the Sun enters Aquarius. New inspirations and connections present themselves to carry us through yesterday’s hard place.

1/22 New Moon Aquarius…We take ownership of our part of the puzzle and release the rest. At the time of the new moon our energy typically flags, and we may need to reset our expectations around a particular timeline. This new moon reminds us of the clarity available when we get a little reprieve from caring what other people think. Often this time in the moon’s cycle brings an ebb in energy, and this month is no exception so be sure to get some extra rest. Pair and balance your inner reserves and resolve with your intellect and diplomatic skills to focus and concentrate your efforts.

1/23-24…Order and discipline…Mars the warrior goes retrograde in Virgo today, until April 13th. Mars has been in Virgo since mid-November, and because of this retrograde cycle will transit this sign until early July 2012, leaving us with about 8 months of Mars in Virgo total. For projects that you’ve already started, the retrograde period (until April 13th) this is a great time to get organized and do any detailed work you may have been putting off or just haven’t been able to get to. Follow urges to get rid of clutter, organize your workspace, home, garden, etc. We are also called to be more mindful of our health with Mars in Virgo. Where would you like to make improvements? Small changes in routine are favored now and can have a major positive impact over the long term. During the retrograde cycle we may have less energy and need to be mindful of how we use it. Lapses in accountability and integrity may drive us crazy, and speaking up with a solution instead of just criticism is very important to remedy the situation. In general we have to be careful to not overly focus on criticism lest we alienate others during this time.

1/25-26…Cleans and clear your space and your mind. Empty your cup so you can replenish yourself. Pay attention to information coming from your intuition.

1/27-29…The moon’s entrance into Aries inspires us to action. With mercury making a number of aspects and entering into Aquarius, expect to field quite a bit of communication—our inboxes will be hoppin’.

1/30-31…After a busy weekend, the week starts out methodically with a focus on your resources. To get good and grounded in the basic building blocks of our current situation. What values do you see embodied before you?

STEVEN IS EXCITED

Originally uploaded by Rachel Allyson

Overview: Welcome to 2012! The year starts out with a fiery Aries first quarter moon, followed by an emotional Cancer full moon on 1/8. Our passion and emotional truth take center stage. Our feelings can direct us towards a deeper connection to our creative and intuitive impulses, which are important energy sources for the year ahead. Align yourself with the instincts that elicit the most excitement from you. Celebrate areas in your life where you can say “yes!” with aplomb. And those that elicit a half-hearted response or even dread, where can you take responsibility to make some changes? Or perhaps it’s time to commit to a long term plan that might entail short term sacrifices but is heading towards a goal you care about.

1/1-2…The year starts out with a fiery first quarter moon in Aries. Harness the courage and passion to start the year off right by putting your most authentic foot forward. By the afternoon/evening of 1/2, the pace slows down.

1/3-4…Brings a focus and groundedness. Enjoy the realistic outlook and ability to effectively prioritize.

1/5-6…The moon’s entrance into Gemini sparks conversation and ideas. Circulate and expose yourself to new things. Let your curiosity guide you. Also good days for writing and sales.

1/7-8…Full Moon in Cancer…Cancer helps us identify where we need more emotional closeness and empathy in our lives. If you’ve been soldiering on without paying attention to your deeper needs for security and comfort, time to re balance. On the other hand, if you’ve been playing it safe and/or overly focused on feelings, it may be time for a shift in perception in order to see what you’ve outgrown and move on. If there are some needs going unmet in your relationships, remember that one of the best ways to fill them is to give to others what you most want. Our hearts are wide open for some new forms of relating and melting away any ruts or judgements that no longer serve us.

1/9-11…The beginning of the week is relatively quiet on the astrological front, although the moon’s entrance into Leo Monday evening and the lingering effects of the full moon will leave us with plenty to process and express. Try some creative outlets to celebrate your uniqueness.

1/12-13…The moon’s entrance into Virgo has us focus on the small changes we can make towards larger aspirations. Good days for creative and spiritual pursuits, and doing things that clear your heart and mind. A boat load of inspiration awaits us if we can redirect any overzealous voices of judgement in our lives

1/14…Saturday evening is a great night for romance and fun. We are in the mood to connect and opportunities present themselves to share our hearts.

1/15-16…Think back to a week ago during the full moon. How has your perspective shifted? Where have you shed some outworn beliefs? Take a moment to look at the ground you’ve covered during the last week. Celebrate and offer gratitude for the shifts you’ve witnessed in yourself and others.

DSC_0144_vedauwoo_climbers

Originally uploaded by kdriese

We close out 2011 with clarity and resolve on our next steps . Any delays or processes that have been underway for the fall and winter shift into the next iteration or stage. This may require that you travel a little lighter, so make sure to let go of anything you no longer need for this part of journey.

12/17-18…We are moving to a deeper level of practicality with our current hopes and dreams. Some challenges may come up around how to move forward in a decision that impacts others. Be patient. Later in the week a possibility opens up that we couldn’t have foreseen.

12/19-20…Enjoy the opportunities and energy opening up for synergy and and an updated approach.

12/21-22…Winter Solstice…The longest night of year is upon us. In the midst of any holiday buzz, carve out some time to reflect on what you are letting go of as 2011 comes to a close. A change in direction is nicely accompanied by the resources and inspiration needed to follow through.

12/23-24…Capricorn New Moon…What ladder are you climbing? What goals and milestones are you thinking about? We are poised for a strong dose of forward momentum. Just make sure the direction you are headed is where you want to go.

12/25-26…Ready, set….Jupiter turns direct this, setting off a wave of growth and good feelings. Think back to the end of August, what were you working on, what has been in process this fall and winter? Get ready to surf a wave of good tidings. It will be well worth the wait. This is one of the best times to launch a business, make an investment, put yourself out their so opportunity can find you. If you don’t play, you can’t win.

12/27-28…With the forward momentum there will things we’ll need to leave behind. This may be uncomfortable, even painful, but if something is dying in your life, let it go. We need to decrease the drag so we can be more aerodynamic. This is an opportunity to feel very close to our purpose and sense of vitality. Enjoy the intensity and focus available to you.

12/29-30…The passion continues, although a non linear approach is needed with the moon in Pisces. Pay attention to coincidences and messages that come throughout the day.

12/31…Say goodbye to 2011…Our words might not match up exactly with our intentions. Cultivate humility as we close out 2011. Integrity and accountability are needed. Let’s cut the guilt, blame, semantics, and judgement, and commit to quality improvement and solutions in our personal world as well as collectively. We hold those values dear as we turn the page to the next chapter.