Aries New Moon April 20: Endings and Beginnings

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

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

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

plate creation by Joseph Mina

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

About this New Moon:

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

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

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

First about the eclipse itself:

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

Eclipsed New Moon
courtesy of Guy Otwell

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

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

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

Astrological significance of this eclipsed Moon:

Here's the annotated chart:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Suggested reflections for this New Moon period:

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

Endings and Beginnings

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

Endings

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

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

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

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

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

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

The Sands Of Time

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

Reflective Endings

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

Beginnings

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

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

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

Unquenchable Curiosity

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

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

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

Conclusion

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

As always, your comments below are most welcomed.

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

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

Aries New Moon: Surfing The Creativity Wave

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

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

Greeting Cosmic Seekers and Lovers of the Sky Story

 Aries Plate by Joseph Mina

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Energetic Grid by Joseph Mina

(numbered annotations found on above chart)

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

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

Mercury - speaking with integrity; forward thinking

Ceres - being comfortable in your own skin

Sun/Moon - emotionally fueled action with determination and passion

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Reflections for this lunation:

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

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

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

4 - Am I taking the time to be nurtured?

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

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

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

Autumn's Message by Joseph Mina

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

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

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

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

Comments welcomed below!

Sat Nam

Joseph Mina

Stellenbosch, South Africa

April 11, 2021

Total Lunar Eclipse January 20/21: The Internal Roar

"Always remember, you have within you the strength, patience, and passion to reach for the stars to change the world." Harriet Tubman - American Abolitionist and political activist (1822-1912) 

Astrology is a progressive tool for exploring life potential and possibilities. Discover NOW the power of your talents/abilities set out in your natal chart from a reorganizational and energy-rich perspective. 

"Intuitive, compassionate, direct and to-the-point, eloquent and last but not least, great-humored and fun, Joseph continues to enighten, enrich and expand with the rest of the Universe." CK, Vancouver 

Schedule your 2019 on-line astrology consultation session TODAY!

Greetings from the Western Cape of South Africa

Almost a year has past since my last blog entry! "Best laid plans of mice and men." At various points of 2018 I had great intentions about weighing-in on the very significant transiting cycles of 2018, but Neptune and its fog-like cloak thought otherwise. I'll share much more about my dance of surrender with Neptune in a future blog. Suffice it to say for the moment Neptune has brought me many gifts in my career realms of bodywork, astrology and imagery. And equally, Neptune has been dissolving (on-going) that which no longer serves my soul-journey. So onto the issue at hand: the coming Super Moon total lunar eclipse.

Cut To The Chase Version:

Starting a year with two significant lunar cycles, i.e. a partial solar eclipse in Capricorn (January 6) and Super Moon total eclipse in Leo (January 20/21), portends a year of great change (possibly upheaval), introspection, intensity (perhaps greater than witnessed so far this decade), and significant beginnings. This is a potent time to tap into your inner passion and let it roar. Three significant

Super Full Moon Lunar Eclipse Jan 2018: the inner roar of the Leo Lion

Astrology is a progressive tool for exploring life potential and possibilities. Discover NOW the power of your talents/abilities set out in your natal chart from a reorganizational and energy-rich perspective. 

From over 20 years of masterly exploring the archetypes of planetary cycles, trends and inter-relationships, I can help you understand more fully how these ancient symbols reflect your gifts, talents and abilities developed over this and other life times. I'll also help you refine your life strategies relative to your life purpose, as well as create new strategies for best working with the current planetary cycles shown in your current transit chart, influencing choices and direction in your life. 

"Intuitive, compassionate, direct and to-the-point, eloquent and last but not least, great-humored and fun, Joseph continues to enighten, enrich and expand with the rest of the Universe." CK, Vancouver 

You can access my on-line appointment schedule here.

"Don't let the noise of others' opinions drown out your own inner voice. And most importantly, have the courage to follow your heart and intuition. They somehow already know what you truly want to become. Everything else is secondary."
Steve Jobs, Founder of Apple Computer (1955-2011)

Greetings Cosmic journeyers and a very, very belated Happy New Year from South Africa.

Summer time flourishes here at the bottom of Africa. This is the "July vibe" many in the Northern Hemisphere can relate to. Personally, 2017 was a year of reorganization for me as I moved from

Eclipsed Aries Full Moon Oct 8: Awakening The Shadow

"Shadow is the obstruction of light. Shadows appear to me to be of supreme importance in perspective, because, without them opaque and solid bodies will be ill defined; that which is contained within their outlines and their boundaries themselves will be ill-understood unless they are shown against a background of a different tone from themselves." Leonardo da Vinci

"There is no easy walk to freedom anywhere, and many of us will have to pass through the valley of the shadow of death again and again before we reach the mountaintop of our desires." Nelson Mandela

For the second time this year, the Full Moon will glow blood red. Just 6 months since the last eclipse in Libra, this eclipse will grace the night sky as the Moon transits Libra's opposite sign of Aries. Breathe in...breathe out.

I'm in Sri Lanka now. Africa adventures fade...Japan adventures await. Near Colombo, I'll see the waning moments of this eclipse. The rising Full Moon will be emerging from its shadow journey through the Earth's Umbra.  And just like the counterpart eclipsed Full Moon of last April, this Full Moon comes with very strong planetary aspects portending further continuation of

Total Lunar Eclipse Libra Full Moon April 15 and Grand Cardinal Cross: Intensity Clarifies

"...Intensity clarifies. It creates not only momentum, but also the pressure you need to feel either friction, or fulfillment." Marcus Buckingham, author & motivational speaker

©Energetic Expressions2014: "Emergence" by Joseph Mina

"A Wizard's Hat", as described by astronomer/philosopher Chet Raymo in one of my favorite books Soul of the Night, resembles the shadow area lurking behind every object, large and small, as it orbits our Sun. It is mostly a dark zone, seemingly oblivious to the Sun's brilliant light. In the case of the Earth's cap, its shadow light is a very dusky red, infused with the scattered remains of crimson solar light not held captive by the Earth's atmosphere. Tonight in Hawaii, or in the very early morning hours for North and South America, the Full Moon dips into this hallowed area, creating one of nature's infrequent sublime spectacles...a total lunar eclipse.

Eclipse chaser and observer extraordinare Fred Espenak tells me in his Observer's Handbook the Moon will first touch the outer regions of the Earth's penumbra at 4:53.37 UT today (6:54 pm in Hawaii; 9:54 pm on the West Coast US)...a moment in time no one will perceive. Yet within a matter of 65 minutes, the Moon will begin to lose its brilliant, silvery luster, as the Earth's shadow seemingly takes a bite out of this fabled block of cheese. For an astrologer, or someone who dwells in the realm of metaphor, this "as above, so below" moment opens the human psyche to our own archetypal shadow...that place hiding humanities inner secrets about the more primal parts of our lineage and heritage. Your cosmic homework assignment for this lunation: "look within".

This particular eclipse is one of the more unique ones in recorded history. No, not because of the Moon's passage through the Earth's shadow...a journey replicated every 18.6 months or so. Rather, an extremely rare geometric association of four planetary archetypal expressions occurs at the same time. On its journey tonight, the  Libra Full Moon carries a metaphorical cross on this shadowed trek...a "Cardinal Grand Cross", if you will. We have arrived at the 2014 Crossroads. What will we discover within our psyches about who we are and our potential to co-create on planet Earth??

As I have shared here over the past few years, this evolving grand cross dynamic is nothing short of

Aries Full Moon October 18: Communication Breakdown Continues

"There is no act of treachery or meanness of which a political party is not capable; for in politics there is no honour." Benjamin Disraeli (1804-1881), former prime minister of England and Leader of the Conservative party.

Note: On today's Full Moon in Aries, specific details about this lunation and the coming Mercury Retrograde may be found in our October update, released in late September.

Irony seemingly knows no boundaries. A 19th century quote from a very conservative politician about the then state of politics and inter-party clashes in England mirrors quite poignantly the recent political strategy employed by 87 very conservative politicians in the US House of Representatives. This strongly aligned "Tea Party" group actually succeeded in shutting down most of the US Government for 16 days this month. In the end, in typical, unorthodox Mercury Retrograde fashion, nothing was accomplished by these 87 upstarts, other than deferring once again unresolved Federal debt and budget issues.

This dynamic action of a government shut down represents a text book example of how Uranus in Aries (rebellion and change) and Pluto in Capricorn (melt down of no-longer working politics, governance, business structure, rules etc) create mayhem, chaos and strong clashes every 35 years or so when they

Sagittarius Penumbral Full Moon May 24: Gemini Party

A Gemini Party: Penumbral Eclipse May 24 Sagittarius Full Moon

©AstroActivator by Kathryn Andren Mina, all rights reserved

Isn’t it time to lighten up? 

The month of May began with four planetary energies in the Zodiac sign of the Bull. Now, we may be getting a much needed Gemini light-hearted break for a few weeks. 

Over the past 10 days Venus, Mercury and Sun moved from the Zodiac sign of Taurus into Gemini, the Twins inviting more levity in the physical, mental, emotional and spiritual realms. Mars will follow into Gemini by month's-end, which will act as impetus for what you envision during this Full Moon energy.

With this influx of planetary energy into light-hearted Gemini, a potent time unfolds for creating Gemini magic through networking, writing, teaching and

Gemini Full Moon 2012: Illumination for Solstice 2012

By Kathryn Andren Mina

AstroActivators© 2001 Kathryn Andren Mina

Dear Friends
Here is the Gemini Astrology update for the Gemini Full Moon and completing the last month of 2012.

2012! It’s the year that’s been talked about for decades, and now it’s almost over! What has been your experience this year?

We know that many astrologers and mystics have ‘capitalized’ on this time with propositions and assumptions on its possible implications or meaning.  What we know for sure is that we are witnessing amazing changes on the planet and it’s an exciting time to be alive!

November 28, 2012 is the Full Moon at 6° Gemini. Gemini is the sign of the Lovers and the Twins. Gemini vibration illuminates a time to gather information, check out other perspectives and try something new.  Are you meeting new

Scorpio Super Full Moon and Annular New Moon Eclipse May 2012: A Resounding Gong

“We are the miracle of force and matter making itself over into imagination and will. Incredible....The Universe has shouted itself alive. We are one of the shouts.”

Ray Bradbury, Science-Fiction Author, (1920- )

"Eclipses can last anywhere from a fraction of a minute to upwards of seven minutes, depending on how deeply the rapier tip of the Moon's shadow reaches the Earth; that is -- maintaining the same grisly metaphor -- whether it barely grazes the Earth's cheek, or slices clean through the planet."
Chet Raymo, Author (1936- )

Note: we posted this update at the last Full Moon. Below you will find specific details about the major Annular Eclipse sweeping over Southeastern China, Japan and the Western United States on May 20/21. This eclipse positions just to the left of the Pleaides: an amazing activation event for amazing times. In 2 weeks we will post more information about the June 5th epic transit of Venus across the Sun.
Aloha from Tokyo...Joseph

Japanese Eclipse - author unknown

Eclipse season May 2012 draws near, soon to arrive with fanfare, mystery and intrigue. We are about to enter an epic period of time, embracing grace, beauty, history, the future and deep introspection. Celestial bodies, poised to dance across the face of the Sun or dip into the ruddy shadow of the Earth, now become heralds of Universal synchronicity, metaphor and creative opportunity. The sounding bell for 2012 and beyond is about to make a resounding "gong".

This is an extended version of the Gemini Astrology Update covering the coming Super Full Moon in Scorpio on May 5/6, Venus Retrograde in Gemini, and the Annular Solar Eclipse on May 20/21. Later this month we'll cover the Partially eclipsed Full Moon in Sagittarius on June 4/5, and the rare Venus Transiting the Sun the very next day on June 5/6.

Here's our latest Gemini Video Update offering an overview with graphics about these coming powerful celestial events.