Capricorn Super Full Moon July 2023: Human Evolutionary Acceleration

"You never change things by fighting the existing reality. To change something, build a new model that makes the existing model obsolete."  Richard Buckminster Fuller - (1895-1983) American Architect, Inventor, Philosopher, and Futurist 

“Look around you. Everything changes. Everything on this earth is in a continuous state of evolving, refining, improving, adapting, enhancing, and changing. You were not put on this earth to remain stagnant.” Dr. Steve Maraboli (1975 - ) Author and Philanthropist 

Greetings from the Big Island of Hawaii

Full Moon plate by Joseph Mina

I'm taking a tropical break now from South Africa's winter. That means reorienting myself to a very different night sky, and an equally different seasonal vibration. Nonetheless, astrological themes, regardless of location and climate remain global in nature, applying their compelling themes across societies and cultures. And so we evolve. This Capricorn Full Moon is a vivid reminder of human society's quickening evolution.

Where and when: Capricorn Full Moon at 11° arrives today (July 3rd) across the globe. This is the very last Capricorn Full Moon that includes a Pluto transit in the sign of the goat. There won't be another such Capricorn Full Moon with Pluto in this astrological sign until 2254! While there will be two Capricorn Full Moon in July 2024, by then, Pluto will be in very early degrees of Aquarius. Symbolic? Indeed. Quite evolutionary, and given the historical context of Pluto's last passage over this late degree/early degree ground some 250 years ago in 1776-1778, perhaps revolutionary too.

This is the first of four successive Full Moons occurring close to the time of lunar perigee (closest to Earth), with the two August Full Moons closest of the four. A lunation close to perigee is considered a Super Moon, i.e. an amplified lunar vibration due to the symbolic nature of it being visually closer. This particular Moon is almost 30 hours before perigee. While one can make an argument about its "superness", it nonetheless is the least super of the group. Personally, sleep did not come easily last night. The intensity of the Full Moon in Hawaii was palpable.

Pluto entered Saturn-ruled Capricorn in 2008. And the Capricorn-fueled realms of politics, rules, law, business, and overall structural organizations have been rapidly transforming ever since. It's the age-old transformative process which fuels human evolution. When it comes to Pluto's transformative cycle, the astrological sign of Pluto's transit augurs a prolonged period of significant alterations, collapses, temporary expansions, and ultimately freedom from an outdated archetype. The ultimate rising from the ashes of the mystical phoenix is one of Pluto's hallmarks.

I arrived on the Big Island of Hawaii back on the evening of June 6th. Just 9 hours later, Kilauea volcano erupted for the second time in 2023, remaining active for 12 days. Quite exciting to witness the movement of lava in person (image below). Volcanic eruptions are vivid mirrors of archetypal Pluto's methodology. Pressure builds, energy expands, eruption occurs, transformation takes place, and new life eventually emerges.

Pele Dance by Joseph Mina

Overall themes of this 28-day lunar cycle: Restructuring reality - the way of the heart. Purging the unessential, while attuning to your heart's desires. The evolutionary flow aligning with your connection to  yourself, personal connections, and the greater collective of humanity becomes stronger now. 

Commencing with the second Aries New Moon back in April, the Full Moon became the primary theme setter for each 28-day lunation cycle. This flip of the astrological script continues through July 2024. Then, the lunar cycle will shift once again, back to the New Moon becoming the primary theme setter. This lunar shift occurs every 16 to 18 months.

Significant archetypal players over the next 28 days: Mercury in Cancer and later into Leo, Venus/Mars in Leo, then Mars in Virgo, Jupiter and Uranus in Taurus, Chiron in Aries, Saturn and Neptune in Pisces, and Pluto in Capricorn, all further amplified by the Super Moon effect.

Energetic patterns at play: Mercury has just completed its superior conjunction of the Sun, where the fleet-winged messenger is on the opposite side of the Sun from Earth's perspective. This phase of Mercury's transit has had all the makings of a Mercury Retrograde, albeit a very quick one. Recent communication and transportation snafus in the news during the last week of June through now underscore this effect. As Mercury has been transiting the sign of Cancer during this period, matters involving home, family and community vis-a-vis Capricorn's rules, laws, and business matters have been highlighted. Anyone who recently had their airline flight cancelled due to weather and understaffing issues will attest to this challenging theme. This is particularly amplified for anyone with placements in early to mid-degree cardinal signs (Aries, Cancer, Libra, Capricorn).

Meanwhile, Pluto's recent return to Capricorn on June 11th, after 80 days at 0° Aquarius, has further amplified the tumultuous nature of life-altering events since the onset of the 2020 pandemic. 

Synopsis: With Pluto in Capricorn now coming back into close aspect with Neptune in Pisces, this lunation reminds us that amplified physical and emotional fire and water related events through next January are going to be part of life's day-to-day occurrences. This includes matters driven by climate, politics, migrations, and business and finance. Particularly affected will be those with late degree placements in Cardinal and Mutable (Gemini/Virgo/Sagittarius/Pisces) signs.

What's easy:  Both the Moon in Capricorn and Jupiter in Taurus form a sextile (60° angle) with Saturn in Pisces, with a resulting trine (120° angle) connecting expansive Jupiter and the pragmatic Moon. This combination can somewhat soften the otherwise challenging components of this lunation if you partake in the natural world, stay grounded, and loosely plan your day-to-day focus and emphasis.

What's challenging: a change in the lunar nodes is underway during this lunation from Taurus/Scorpio to Aries/Libra (nodes change from sign-to-sign every 18.6 months). The shift to Aries/Libra will immediately create a nodal square (90° angle) with Pluto in Capricorn, and a nodal semi-sextile (30° angle) with Neptune in Pisces. One's individuated desires vs the compromises of relationship will come under the spotlight in the coming months, particularly in the realms of Capricorn's rules, laws, politics, the courts, and business matters, and Pisces penchant for mystical, dream-like or even delusional perceptions of reality. Further, Chiron in Aries, and its focus on reclaiming one's individuated sense of self, will move retrograde through December, having a strong influence on matters of health, especially for those around 19, 27, 33, 50, 70, 78 and 83 years of age, or having cardinal-sign placements between 14° and 20° Aries/Cancer/Libra/Capricorn.

Meanwhile, Venus and Mars in Leo will continue in lock-step until mid-month, when Venus' movement slows as it nears its coming epic retrograde on the 23rd. Here, Mars continues its forward transit into health-conscious Virgo. This tight Leo combination poses strong challenges around emotional matters of the heart. The last time these two transited Leo together was in the summer of 2021, when the world was coping with pandemic fallout. Particularly affected are fixed sign placements from 12° to 29° in Taurus/Leo/Scorpio/Aquarius.

Venus Plate by Joseph Mina

Venus Retrograde: every 18 months or so, Venus moves in retrograde motion from Earth's perspective. Here, Venus moves between the Sun and Earth, shifting from the evening to the morning predawn sky. The previous Venus Retrograde was in January 2022, when Venus, and in conjunction to Pluto, remained in Capricorn for over 3 months. 

This particular retrograde is quite significant for several reasons:
- stations retrograde at the same Leo degree (29°) as the grand total eclipse of August 2017, that bisected the United States. 
- Venus will create a yod configuration with Pluto in Capricorn and Neptune in Pisces at station retrograde. A yod is a paradoxical geometry, encouraging you to think/act differently in the realms of trust and unusual alliances. All late degree placements in Cardinal, Fixed and Mutual signs will be influenced by this configuration
- given the Pluto/Neptune outer planetary nature of this yod configuration, a stronger emphasis and encouragement is placed on soul searching relative to matters of the heart, what you value in your life, your sense of self-worth, and the balance of material possessions versus your actual, practical needs
- Venus retrogrades 5 times every 8 years, returning to its original placement 8 years earlier, but one degree offset. This configuration creates a star pentagram. At this retrograde, Venus begins a 100+ yr movement in its retrogrades through the sign of Leo. That's a significant shift in energy.
- this retrograde period is not a time to enter into a marriage commitment
- towards the latter stages of the retrograde, Mercury too will begin a retrograde on August 23rd (21°) through Sept 15 (8°) in the sign of Virgo, adding matters of health and service to the overall Venus mix. That will include an opposition with Saturn in Pisces on August 1

- timings for this Venus retrograde: entered the retrograde shadow on June 18th at 12° Leo; stations retrograde on July 22/23 at 29° Leo; stations direct on Sept 3/4 at 12° Leo: leaves the retrograde shadow Oct 7 at 29° Leo 

Suggestions for this lunation:
- receive bodywork
- focus on physical exercise and matters of health
- avoid, or at the very least minimize, conflicting mental ad hominem debates
- attune to the natural world
- be creative either alone, or with others - dance, draw, create, play
- find quiet, daily reflective time - particularly true for nurturing the inner feminine parts of your psyche.

Suggested questions for reflection:
- What does it mean to me to follow the desires of my heart?
- Am I experiencing passion and expansion in my intimate relationships?
- What am I ready to restructure in my life to better align with my heart's desires?
- What am I ready to let go of?
- How can I better nurture myself?
- How do I perceive myself in an evolutionary sense as part of the evolving Aquarian mythos?

Hubble Deep Field via NASA

Conclusion:
Planetary cycles are part of a web of experiences. No planetary cycle is island unto itself. While a cycle will eventually come to an end, its influence is woven into the evolutionary fabric of humanity, continuing its rippling effect in concert with all that has come before it.

As I shared in part this past April at the second Aries New Moon, "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." This is particularly true during this building Venus retrograde phase. 

As I look ahead, the coming months augur a challenging time for humanity. Pluto will remain in late degrees of Capricorn in sextile to Neptune until January 20, 2024, and one last time between early September to mid-November 2024. Outer planetary transits at 0° or 29° of any sign amplify the transformative nature of that transit. 

We are just two years from July 2025, when Saturn, Uranus, Neptune and Pluto come into aspect to each other in early degrees of air and fire signs (Aquarius/Aries/Gemini). That's a significant shift from the current earth/water influences of Pluto in Capricorn, Saturn/Neptune in Pisces, and Uranus in Taurus. 

This now building two-year period will prove preparatory and challenging for a human society going through the throes of a massive evolutionary shift in connection and technology. Yet remember, diamonds and other similar crystals undergo enormous pressures to fashion their extraordinary beauty and grace. It's no different for humans. We are here to evolve, and in turn, support the evolution of humanity.

Such are the powerful, transformative times in which we live. May your evolving growth serve the greater good and evolution of humanity.

Please leave any comments below (moderated before appearing)

Aloha from Big Island, Hawaii
Starman, Joseph Mina
July 3, 2023

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

Solstice December 2022: Transitioning from 2022 to 2023

"And one has to understand that braveness is not the absence of fear, but rather the strength to keep on going forward despite the fear." Paulo Coelho, Author (1947 - )

"History doesn't repeat itself, but it often rhymes." Mark Twain

Greetings from the Western Cape of South Africa

Before starting this blog, I had a read of my last two entries here (Dec 2021 and April 2022). I know, it's been awhile. Blame my Aries North Node. 😉

Last December, then again in April, I wrote 2022 would be an intense year, literally building on the very intensity spawned in late 2019 through 2021. Intensity always implies growth, increased heat, and unforeseen challenges. Without tension, nothing grows; nothing evolves. The next three years will add to this intense period, as Pluto and Neptune move through the final degrees of Capricorn and Pisces, respectively.  How that energetically unfolds depends on how humanity responds. Surprises abound in this Universe.

More immediate focus here is the coming Solstice followed 2 days later by the Capricorn New Moon. Ready to dive in?

At the Sun standstill (Solstice), in this case the Sun's most southern point along the horizon, the Sun rises and sets around the same time for 3 days. In an "as above, so below" sense, it's a time to standstill, i.e. reevaluate, renew, and as needed, redirect your creative and/or organizational pursuits for the next steps on your life journey in this coming new season.

And with every change of season, the natal chart for that changeover becomes a helpful guide for navigating what is now a fast moving energy field. In that respect, Gemini, the sign of the playful trickster and spontaneous shifts, will add more unpredictable mojo to this period.
________________________________

Life Path Astrology Consultations: As 2023 rapidly nears, deepen your understanding of your natal birth chart along with a look ahead to 2023 and how to best navigate the planetary cycles of the coming year. I am available on a limited basis for private one-to-one consultation sessions via Skype or Zoom (audio recorded). Gift certificates for family and friends are available too! 

Great changes present life changing opportunities. My personal astrological counseling session helps you create meaningful strategies for adapting and shifting with the current powerful planetary cycles. Schedule TODAY your appointment!

__________________________________

Helderberg Mountain Gold by Joseph Mina

Here's the big picture:

Second Solstice of 2022 arrives UT 21:48 on December 21 (Hawaii 11:48 HST, 13:48 PST) east to South Africa/mid/western Europe 23:48 SAST), and on the 22nd from Moscow east to International Date Line.

Capricorn New Moon positions at 2° Capricorn on the 23rd, just 2 days after the Solstice, just 16 minutes past the midnight hour in Hawaii. Then on the US East Coast EST 05:16; W Europe 12:16; UT 10:16. 

In the interlude between these two events, early on the 23rd, the Moon transits across the Galactic Center in late degrees of Sagittarius. This is one way the Universe reminds us through the sky story to employ Sagittarius ideals of courage, determination, and integrity in the coming season as it applies to Capricorn themes of rules, politics, law, business and economic matters.

At this Solstice/New Moon you are reminded in this time of great upheaval and shift:

- "you are not alone".

- there is a "Universal method to this apparent madness" flowing in your and others lives. Yes, we are all affected by the significant changes on Earth, whether we are aware of these changes or not.

- "power in numbers" remains a viable transformative tool for challenging established paradigms of outdated beliefs and social mores (eg young women protests in highly secular Iran).

And here are other details for the Solstice and New Moon:

The New Moon square to Jupiter in Aries and Ceres in Libra (ever-expansive Jupiter reentered the sign of the Ram on December 20th after a short return to Pisces; Ceres entered Libra December 7th). 

This angular combination at the very beginning of these cardinal signs, referred to as a T-square, implies novelty, i.e. surprises. It also encourages using discretion and due diligence as important tools in the coming months. Jupiter in Aries left to itself is quite rambunctious and uncontrollable.The massive reorganization now taking place in the Crypto Markets due to the collapse of one of its major trading hubs is one example of Aries enthusiasm being ultimately affected by a retrograde Mars in Gemini, and subsequently reined by Capricorn diligence. 

By contrast, Ceres at the very beginning degree of Libra, the planetary archetype of nurturing behaviors towards self and others, gives added emphasis toward developing or strengthening connections in your life. That uptick in energy will prove empowering as long as it comes from a nurturing place. The key here is focusing on what brings life to your relationships, while being in alignment with your direction and purpose. Equally, perfect timing for reflecting whether certain relationships continue to feel nurturing to you. Last time Ceres transited Libra was in 2018.

Mars Retrograde

Mars Retrograde: Back in late August, Mars first transited into the sign of Gemini. Approximately every 2-1/2 years, Earth moves in between the Sun and Mars. That positioning is referred to as a Mars opposition. As seen in the image to the right, whenever Mars moves into opposition from speedier Earth's perspective, it appears to be moving backwards against the sky background. That effect, in an "as above, so below" context, denotes a retrograde period. 

It is at opposition that Mars rises and sets opposite to the Sun. 

Mars, as the ruling energy of both Aries (modern) and Scorpio (ancient - i.e. before the discovery of Uranus, Neptune and Pluto) is bold, quick to anger, loves to play, has a short attention span at times, triggers deeper desires of passion and achievement, and likes to move on a spur-of-the-moments notice. When Mars turns retrograde, this active Aries/Scorpio mojo becomes much more internal, introspective and intense. Also, deadlines, engagements, work assignments, creative endeavors become fodder for changeable events. 

chart design by Joseph Mina

To better understand how this significant cycle plays against the background of your natal chart, note the astrological house where Mars transits in your chart. That's step one, For me, that would be the 10th house of career and the 11th house of groups and associations, one of my strongest interests. In step two, note where the signs of Scorpio ♏️ and Aries ♈️ appear at the opening degree of two specific houses. For me that's the 4th house of my private life, home, family and community, and the 9th house of travel, higher education, higher mind, philosophy and a spiritual quest. Such placements have mirrored my internal processes and external efforts, as I continue to reorganize from significant changes in my career approach since late 2019. More on that later.

In the sign of Gemini, the above chart analysis applies to matters of communication, networking, spontaneity (changeable), acting, music and a mix of sorrow and humor. As Gemini is a mutable (changeable) sign, which also includes Virgo/Sagittarius/Pisces, anyone with significant mutable placements in their natal chart will feel this Mars/Gemini vibration even more strongly than others.

When Mars approaches its opposition with the Sun, it remains in the same sign, or sometimes tracks between 2 signs for around 7 months!. That's a long time to be in an energy pattern, especially in this case: unpredictable-like Gemini. And to make it even more unpredictable, this Mars retrograde back on October 30th commenced by creating a square with nebulous Neptune in its home sign of Pisces. That combination has spawned an increase in misinformation during the retrograde cycle, as well as darker secrets being revealed in unpredictable ways. The sudden collapse of the crypto exchange FXT, where billions of investor funds vanished, is one example of a Gemini Mars and Pisces Neptune working in combination (eg bursting the delusional bubble). 

Other recent examples include Elon Musk's Twitter purchase having a significant negative impact on the shares of his Tesla electric car company; England's Prime Minister Liz Truss lasting in office for just 44 days due to economic upheaval triggered by her economic policies; massive social protests in the unlikeliest of places (China, Iran, and Russia); unexpected USA midterm election results and drawn-out vote tabulation; and Peru's President being quickly ousted from office, then arrested for attempting to ignore the Constitution. These are just a few of the many examples appearing recently in the news. Quick, unexpected changes and reversals are the common thread here.

Mars will end its retrograde movement on January 12th when it stations direct at 8° Gemini. The entire retrograde cycle will come to a close on March 16th. As lessons from this cycle are reviewed in the direct motion period, I suspect more political and economic upheaval around the world will mark the headlines into March. There's simply a lot of angst in the ethers, and its being vented in many ways.  

And finally…

...Mercury Retrograde is upon us. This cycle began on December 12th, when Mercury passed its station direct point at 8° Capricorn. Between the 12th and 29th, Mercury builds a tension pattern (finding communication challenging these days?) to bring the conversation to all things Capricorn (rules, politics, business, organizational matters, efficiency and even high achievement tendencies). As Mercury rules Gemini, this Capricorn reset/review brings Mars and its ongoing Gemini/Pisces themes into the conversation. The overall effect is to amplify both of these cycles. Confusion and reversals may prove to be the dominant January themes. Also, unexpected opportunity will be there too as you discover a new sense of inner power that rises from a place of internal grace, rather than stress.

This Mercury Retrograde begins in trusty Capricorn with a conjunction to Venus and Pluto lurking nearby. Back at the end of 2021, a similar setup of these very same planetary actors occurred toward the end of the year to herald the Venus Retrograde. That retrograde brought heightened focus to values, money, possessions and self-esteem, which proved to be significant themes in 2022. Venus in Capricorn is energetically akin to the Queen Bee. The hive is her domain. This Mercury Retrograde will focus on how you communicate your values, self-worth, money, and possessions (Venus themes) from an empowered place (Pluto). See below for suggested themes for reflection.

Mercury turns direct on January 18th at 8° Capricorn, and at the same degree marker as Mars in Gemini, which turned direct 6 days earlier. So essentially, both planets are going to move forward (that's progress) in an odd tandem connection (quincunx) until the end of January. By then, Mercury's greater speed starts to create separation from Mars. Quite a unique combination, especially as this dynamic serves as a strong indicator at the Solstice for what to expect in the energetic flow for at least the first month of the new season. Again, focus on communications in the context of unpredictable shifts and changes of fortune occurring in your life.

On my next blog (sometime in January), I'll present the various cycles of 2023, including Pluto's first ingress into Aquarius in over 250 years!, a significant nodal change from Taurus/Scorpio to Aries/Libra, a late July Venus Leo retrograde, Saturn's entrance into Pisces (last time was in 1993-95), four solar/lunar eclipses, and Jupiter's entry into Taurus (last passage was late 2011-2012). Powerful year of transition ahead.

Looking a little further ahead, from indicators marking the planetary movements in the solar system relative to Earth's perspective, the next three years will be profound: empowerment, Earth changes, financial freedom, and social justice and equality will be on the front burner around the globe. This is especially true while Pluto and Neptune cover the final degrees of Capricorn (through early 2025) and Pisces (through 2026), respectively. A transit or natal placement in the late degrees of a sign gives added significance to the archetypal themes of that sign. What makes this energetic ground so transformative and intense is the energetic shift beginning in August 2025 in elemental energy. I'll save that part for the next update.

For now, here are suggestions for the coming Solstice:

-What do I want to expansively create and manifest in the coming season? (Jupiter/Aries)
-How effectively do I communicate what I value? (Mercury retrograde)
-What changes can I now employ to strengthen my ability to manifest (Mars/Gemini)
-How do I envision being of meaningful service to others in 2023 (Saturn/Aquarius)
-What structural parts of my life am I ready to end in the coming season? (Pluto/Capricorn)
-How can I add more value to my career aspirations? (Venus/Capricorn)
-What steps am I ready to take to deepen my connection to my soul path? (Neptune/Pisces)
-What is required on my part now to strengthen myself for a new season? (Uranus/Taurus)

Conclusion: The significant increase in polarity during 2022 points to an increase in tension for 2023. On a personal level, I sure have felt it. Since late 2019, a building and sometimes brooding, sometimes depressing, and even ecstatic vibration has filled my being. 

I have had amazing interactions with the wild spinner dolphins while visiting Hawaii, have stood under jaw-dropping star-filled night skies in South Africa's Cederberg and Karoo mountain valleys while bathed in starlight, and have taken my photography interest to another level. Yet, simply attempting to write at times about the planetary transits has proven quite intensely activating and challenging. Last year for an entire week, every planetary position in my natal chart was aspected by one or more planetary transit. Others I speak with share similar tales of intensity, confusion, creativity, new beginnings and chaos flowing through their lives. With an Aries North Node that likes to move, having to surrender at times to a stronger flow has been humbling, yet strengthening too. I feel like the horse ready to run a race. With the north lunar node shifting into Aries next July, I sense a lot of forward momentum in the offing for many, especially those with strong placements in Cardinal Signs (Aries/Cancer/Libra/Capricorn. Last time the North Node moved through Aries was 2004-06.

Despite this planetary assault by all the outer planets in my natal chart (my interpretation 🤣), I have witnessed my intuitive and sentient abilities expanding (Rudolf Steiner refers to this emergence as the activation of one's super sensibilities),  I have become even more discerning about my choices, and significant changes have occurred in my approach to bodywork (more efficient and expansive, while focusing more so on the frequency at which various forms of life vibrate and how it's exponentially increasing. Feels like an inner rewiring has been taking place.

Back at the September Equinox, I wrote a three-part article on 21st Century Frequency. You can read it here: Part I - Part II - Part III.

And in the realm of frequency, the Sun is now waking from its Solar Minimum state. Increased sunspots and solar activity are strong signs of our day star building towards its expected 2025 Solar Maximum. Of late I have been watching Suspicious Observer's YouTube channel. Short, informative daily updates are provided about the current solar activity along with information about vibrational shifts from beyond the solar system influencing weather patterns, ocean currents, plus a lot more. Have a look.

Lastly, no matter one's lot in life, an extraordinary vibrational shift is now underway affecting all aspects of life on planet Earth. What this energetic sea change looks like on the other side continues to remain speculative. Shining and expanding your unique light, sharing your talents, being of compassionate service, and creating synergy with others represents a powerful life strategy for navigating these highly changeable times.

Once again, the saying "we are the answer to our prayers" comes to mind. We are here to serve a higher purpose in humanity's evolution. Old ways and rigid traditions are falling apart. A new world awaits that functions quite differently than the one to which we are accustomed. I see the period of 2019-2032 as significant bridge years, opening new doors of opportunity and grace for us and future generations. Crossing that bridge with awareness, purpose and determination requires courage and a resolve to participate in this paradigm shift.

And for those in northern climes, stay warm. Six months from now I'll be preparing for the winter here (much like San Diego's sunny and stormy cool days). It's such an inward time in many ways.

The weather here in the Western Cape of South Africa is almost at its summer peak. I love the early mornings, late afternoons and amazing sunsets this time of the year. Yet, the temperature range so far has been cooler than usual. We even had a winter like storm (in terms of its intensity) last weekend, that caused quite a bit of flooding in vulnerable areas in South Africa. The planet is sure alive and evolving too.

I'll post back here in January with a look at the aforementioned 2023 powerful planetary cycles. Optimum time now to dive deeper into your natal chart and transits with the assistance of a professional astrologer.  Schedule TODAY your appointment! I am honored to serve you while I have the available time. 

Comments are welcomed below (subject to moderation).

Wishing everyone many blessings during a meaningful holiday or festive season.

Sat Nam

Starman, Joseph Mina
December 20, 2022
Stellenbosch, South Africa

Gemini Full Moon and Solstice December 2021 - A Look Ahead

“Certainty is a closing of the mind. To create something new you must have uncertainty.” 
Milton Glaser - prominent 20th Century Graphic Designer (1929-2020)

"One cannot be prepared for something while secretly believing it will not happen."
Nelson Rolihlahla Mandela - former President of South Africa (1918-2013)

Summer musings on a Saturday from Stellenbosch, South Africa

It's been nearly 8 months since I last posted here. As I had already set out in earlier blogs my perspective for 2021's unfolding, I did not feel inspired to essentially write about the same themes over and over. However, more recently, the Gemini Full Moon and Solstice charts caught my attention. 

When I looked at these charts a few weeks ago I realized here was a new and significant wrinkle in this ever shifting fabric we call life. In short, these two charts are potent mirrors for how energy will flow in 2022.  Ready to dive in?

From my cosmic perch, 2021 has been quite a tumultuous year to date. And events sure mirror the strength of the related planetary cycles. On the last December Solstice, Jupiter and Saturn met at the very beginning degrees of Aquarius, which portended a renewed emphasis on the future, progressive ideals, expanding social media influences and societal change. Well...we're not quite there. While Pluto remains in Capricorn, it seems the requisite tension pattern necessary for a Plutonian meltdown is causing the progressive shifts to slow down. Nonetheless, Pluto's entrance into Aquarius in 2023 for a few months, then mostly in 2024, and fully in 2025 through 2043, will facilitate significant changes in this evolving Aquarius vibe.

But back to 2021...this year has proven to be much more socially challenging than 2020, something I saw as a strong potential back in January. That potential was dependent on social and generational actions during the first 6 months of the year. While 2020 became the year of the "great reset", 2021 has built on that reset with increased polarity, division and clamour for meaningful progressive change, or even fueled a strong uptick of rebelliousness. Ironically, these shifts have been stimulated by something unseen, namely a persistent virus that continues to adapt/mutate. In short, critical tension has continued to become stronger in the ethers. Ultimately such increased tension patterns may activate an energetic shift throughout the world whose very nature is simply beyond our current ability to grasp at this present moment in time.

We are now in the throes of strong archetypal planetary placements covering the range from Sagittarius to Gemini. Such placements are symbolic of a rapidly shifting and intensifying energetic landscape. Now more than ever, the only certainty is uncertainty. And that applies not only to 2022, but the next 10 years.
________________________________

Life Path Astrology Consultations: As 2022 rapidly nears, deepen your understanding of your natal birth chart along with a look ahead to 2022 and how to best navigate the planetary cycles of the coming year. I am available for private one-to-one consultation sessions via Skype or Zoom (audio recorded). Gift certificates for family and friends are available too! 

Great changes present life changing opportunities. My personal astrological counseling session helps you create meaningful strategies for adapting and shifting with the current powerful planetary cycles. Schedule TODAY your appointment!]

__________________________________

These are no ordinary times. I realize that's obvious to many, but it nonetheless warrants repeating. An ongoing and relentless global pandemic, intense weather phenomena and a disruption in the world's commerce and economic models mirror a volatile and highly changeable time. Where just three years ago change was not prominent on one's priority list, it now occupies most conversations and fuels many life-changing choices.

Behind this volatility lies major transformative astrological cycles. Such are akin to heralds portending huge shifts in consciousness and human interaction. 

These cycles include Saturn vs Uranus (old ways vs progressive ideals), which began in early 2021 and continues until the end of 2022; transformative Pluto in its last two years transiting what was once reliable Capricorn (now becoming a meltdown of structures and the reorganization of the functional, political and business worlds); and very nebulous Neptune continuing to transit its equally nebulous home sign of Pisces through 2026 (imagery, delusion, increasing uncertainty, compassion, sensitivity, deception (fake news), unseen forces such as viruses, and a desire for oneness). Any one of the above cycles would prove challenging. To have all three in play and in various levels of reception makes for an unprecedented transformative engine.

So what in the world is going on? 

In short...a lot! It's not until the end of 2022 that Saturn/Uranus move out of aspect; 2025 until Pluto moves fully into Aquarius; and 2025-26 until Neptune leaves Pisces for Aries.These three cycles are steering this transformative engine into unchartered waters. And in that vein I'll state right here: 2022 will prove more intense and transformative than 2020 and 2021. The 2022 cycles indicate such. 

These cycles point to immense changes affecting all aspects of life. Further, a shift in the lunar nodes from Gemini/Sagittarius to Taurus/Scorpio on January 18th of 2022 vividly underscores how this coming year will be driven by Taurus/Scorpio themes such as the Earth and her changes, our bodies, the very life force that sustains us and all the inherent challenges these themes can conjure. The big question: how do you re-organize your life in the coming days to attune and align with these on-going massive cycles at physical, emotional and mental levels?

Which brings me to the Gemini Full Moon and Solstice charts, and their interrelated themes.

First the Full Moon: 

Full Moon occurs on the 19th at 04:35 Universal Time (the window is 36 hours before and after exact). From central/eastern South America and far eastern Canada east to the International Date Line the Full Moon occurs on the 19th. From evening/late night on the 18th, the East Coast United States/Canada west to the International Date Line will herald the Full Moon. At that lunation, the Sun will be positioned in front of Galactic Center in late degree Sagittarius. By contrast, the Moon will be in opposite Gemini pointing in the opposite direction of galactic center. This placement is known in ancient lore as the "Gate of Man" or the "Silver Gate", a place marking the portal where new creative energies emerge; where souls enter the physical world. That's a potent vibration influencing your dreamtime as well as the Earth's ethers. 

Also, this Full Moon is just 2 days before the Solstice. It won't be until December 2040 such a close timing occurs again. 

Gemini is the shape shifter adapting readily to a changing landscape. Ruled by Mercury, Gemini also is the communicator, actor and transporter of information. Its mutable nature encourages us to be nimble and flow with change rather than getting stuck on what was. When Uranus ultimately transits Gemini in 2025, a new wave of communication will sweep through the consciousness. Perhaps such time will signal the emergence of telepathic abilities in children being born!

There are significant aspects in this Gemini Full Moon chart that warrant mentioning:

Venus Retrograde: on Full Moon day, Venus stations retrograde at 26°Capricorn and conjuncts transformative Pluto. That's quite an intense pairing. Here, this feminine archetype will begin a 40-day inward journey, ultimately appearing in the dawn sky on January 15th (heliacal rise), which signals a new Venus theme (Capricorn) for the ensuing 584 day Venus cycle. There will also be 2 conjunctions with Pluto: one during retrograde (Dec 25th) and during direct movement on March 3rd. The last one will also include Mars. That's quite the potent threesome.

Heretofore the Venus theme has been Gemini, due to its previous retrograde in that sign during 2020. Venus softens Capricorn and its hard-edge ways. One archetypal example would be the wisdom of the elder Grandmother/Grandfather present inside of each of us. This voice wants to be heard; wants to make a difference. Pluto helps by melting away resistance and obstacles.This exchange will pose quite the vivid contrast in styles. One example is the global attack on women's rights. Another, procedural steps being taken in the United States to make voting much more difficult, especially for less fortunate people. 

On January 29th, Venus stations direct motion at 11°Capricorn. On that date, the Moon will position at 27° Sagittarius - the exact degree of the Sun at this Full Moon. The Moon also positions at that same degree on January 1, 2022. Intentions seeded at this Full Moon may reveal their gifts and opportunities to you around those dates.

Venus themes include beauty, artistry, self-esteem and self-worth, our core values, money, possessions and 1:1 relationships. It is a feminine/yin/nurturing vibe, and so sorely needed in this tumultuous, patriarchal infused world. This western to eastern sky transit of Venus symbolizes the end and beginning; a death and rebirth. That it begins with Pluto in the conversation puts a strong, transformative exclamation mark on that theme. The world we once knew is disappearing/falling apart. What awaits us on the other side is yet to be revealed. The inner journey will lead the way. 

During this retrograde we have an opportunity to examine our core values about how we structure our world on a personal level. Are we congruent/authentic with those principles? With Pluto part of the mix, we are encouraged to go deep, perhaps down the rabbit hole, to examine what we truly value. This may prove to be quite a cathartic process, yet nonetheless essential as we move forward in a rapidly changing and somewhat compromised world society.

Also, on Full Moon day, Chiron whose focus is old wounding and its ultimate resolution, stations direct at 8° Aries. Chiron in Aries underscores the dilemma of individuation embraced/activated from a wounding experience(s). Such yields a false sense of self/survival yang tendencies. Venus, more a yin energy of varying degrees depending on its natal placement, wants to reclaim that ground, triggering an introspection about trust, intimacy, nurturing and safety: not only how these themes have challenged you in your life, but offering the opportunity to heal any wounding experiences, especially from your youth (Aries theme). This Chironic outer planetary energy points to generational and genetic themes inherent in all families and underscores patterns of abuse, control and survival. 

Venus retrograde will create a square with Chiron in Aries as it nears its station direct placement at the end of January. Given the Plutonian start to the retrograde, I would not be surprised to see protests on a large scale given the troubling abridgment of human rights occurring around the globe in 2020-21. When Mars catches up to add stronger emphasis to this square, a combustible combination will reveal itself for all to see.

On a broader scale, such social upheaval we now witness and experience across all walks of life represent the initial stages of reorganizing the energetic field into a much more trusting, inclusive vibration, while maintaining one's sense of self worth and related core values. Given the world's response to the ongoing viral surge, enacting such a shift will require a significant change in how individuals view their placement in the grander scheme of life. We are here to grow, risk and live passionately in authentic ways. While protecting self may seem like the best strategy at any given moment, such a choice runs counter to the Universal principles of entropy and growth. 

One specific suggestion related to the virus: start to see this virus as a creation of nature, whose primary role is to purge the energetic field of its human imposed disruptive energies (in the initial lockdown phases of March/April 2020, the Earth showed remarkable change in its waters and atmosphere as human activity came to a halt). Some say the virus was humanly created. While that may be ostensibly true, remember the Earth's elemental/natural forces work through our body and psyches whether we are conscious of it or not. And the Earth will have the last say about the human component on this planet regardless of our human interpretations and actions towards Nature itself.

Shifting to the Solstice chart

Sun moves to 0° Capricorn on December 21st at 15:59 UTC. Most of the world welcomes the Solstice on that date from 5:59 am in Hawaii to Central Asia just before midnight, or early on the 22nd from Eastern Asia to the International Date Line. On this day, Mercury positions at 12°Capricorn (just a degree from the eventual Venus station direct degree) while the Moon in Cancer creates an opposition to Venus/Pluto. Hence the overall emphasis for the ensuing season is Cancer: creating a healthy community, family and most especially new ways to nurture yourself and create a more nurturing reality. The contrast with Venus/Pluto may prove startling. Contrast always defines!

And again, given the current uptick in viral spread (this will continue throughout 2022), now more than ever it is paramount to take steps to strengthen your physical body's core energies through bodywork, pilates, yoga, physical exercise etc. Otherwise, attuning on a physical level to the emerging higher frequencies will prove more and more problematic and conflicted especially in 2023-2025.

Jupiter: on January 1, expansive Jupiter returns to its ancient home sign of Pisces (made a brief incursion during May/July) and will remain in Pisces until May 11, 2022. Jupiter expands all it touches. While usually very optimistic in its vibration, its overall effect has to be considered in the context of other interacting planetary energies. In this case, Jupiter meets Neptune on April 12th at 24°Pisces. Both archetypes rule Pisces. The last time Jupiter/Neptune met in Pisces was in 1856. Then, Florence Nightingale was emerging as a compassionate force amidst the horrors of on-going wars in eastern Europe. She was quite the Piscean archetype of compassion, mercy and forgiveness. 

Pisces in part mirrors such compassion and the plight imposed by suffering. Renewed focus from a Piscean lens will occur in the realm of forced immigrations and the related hardships imposed on those vulnerable souls living under tyranny and oppressive conditions, or who have been traumatized by war. It will also further amplify the conversation about the viral spread (Neptune rules the unseen, including viruses) now sweeping the globe. Back in March 2020, I wrote about the emerging COVID virus. I encourage you to have a read.

Mercury Retrograde:  On January 14th, Mercury will station retrograde at 10° Aquarius in conjunction with Saturn and square to Uranus in Taurus. And just 4 days later, Mercury's higher octave Uranus will station direct at 11° Taurus. Such shifts will raise the emotional temperature created by those clamoring for freedom, progressives wanting to move forward, and traditionalists who want to return to the "good old days". It will be quite the wild energetic ride during this period. Be very clear in your communications with others! Also, since Venus will also be in retrograde, signing of contracts, purchasing expensive items etc. are best delayed until March.

Mercury's retrograde over the ensuing 3 weeks will return to Capricorn (Jan 26th) to station direct on February 4th conjunct Pluto. This is where Venus began its retrograde journey and where the Sun was positioned at the beginning of Mercury's retrograde in Aquarius. That's a profound synchronicity. 

This cosmic meeting occurs just 6 days after Venus stations direct near Mars. When Mercury stations direct on February 4th, Sun in Aquarius will be at the exact degree of Saturn and square to Uranus. And again, that's quite a bit of intensity and will strongly mirror in the ensuing days political upheaval vs progressive initiatives around the world. There's no putting the genie back into the bottle. We can only work with a vibration if it's active. And that requires being pro-active in our quality of life choices. Growth or safety? Always a choice. They can't exist together.

Reflections for the Full Moon/Solstice:

- Do I value myself and the inner gifts I have brought into the world? 
- What needs to change in my life to deepen my appreciation of all that I am?
- What am I ready to change in my practical world to embrace a greater sense of self?
- What possessions am I ready to purge in order to ready myself for something new and uplifting?
- How do I want to be of compassionate greater service to others in the coming days?
- How can I create a more sustainable existence through my internal and external actions?

Conclusion:
It's always in the darkest hour that we are able to discover and embrace the light both within our psyches and externally. We are all connected in ways that transcend conscious thought. And therein lies the conundrum. As a global society, how do we create meaningful stability out of instability? How do we embrace the future with conviction and strength? How do we align with the tumultuous natural forces of this planet? How do we create a more sustainable world? 

The answer to these questions is paradoxical. The answers lie within but are revealed through the synergistic actions of the collective. This emerging Venus retrograde will underscore the power of meaningful relationships in our lives; how strength in numbers focusing on an enriched reality can move mountains and overcome seemingly impossible odds/obstacles. 

2022 will prove intense, yet offer expanded possibilities heretofore unseen. Trusting in yourself and others will be paramount during this time. It cannot be any other way.

I'll have more to share about the cycles of 2022 in a late January blog including Mars retrograde in October/November and a series of eclipses in May and November. Nonetheless, it's enough for the moment to focus on the current cycles at this Full Moon and Solstice time and work with their opportunistic offerings.

I welcome your comments below.

Sat Nam

Starman, Joseph Mina
December 18, 2021
Stellenbosch, Western Cape, South Africa