Pisces New Moon; The End Before The Beginning

"I know not with what weapons World War III will be fought, but World War IV will be fought with sticks and stones." Albert Einstein

"Make uncertainty your ally, not your enemy. All leaps forward depend on reaching into the unknown. Once you see the unknown as the source of creativity, you no longer fear it. Instead, you welcome the fact that life renews itself in unexpected ways." Deepak Chopra

"This is the real secret of life - to be completely engaged with what you are doing in the here and now - and instead of calling it work, realize it is play." Alan Watts

Greetings Lovers of the Earth and the Cosmos

We arrive at the last New Moon of the current Solstice season at a time when the drums of war beat loudly from the Ukraine, reverberating across the globe. As with the Capricorn and Aquarius New Moons of the current season, this Pisces New Moon brings with it intensity and an unyielding theme of profound societal changes and conflict. Yet woven within this theme comes a greater desire for global compassion, empathy, grace and soulful connection. Quite the energetic contrast. 

And while the heightened polarity of these times may seem rather unassailable and irreconcilable, historical context reminds us the overall thrust of progressive evolutionary change cannot be denied, vanquished or simply erased. As ever before, outlier waves of change will continue to stretch humanity further and further into this vast cosmic sea of uncharted waters we call the Universe.

Burial Cave, Fish Hoek

This past Sunday, I participated in a small gathering led by local Archeo-Astronomer Dean Liprini to the ancient Burial and Ascension Caves, south of South Africa's fabled Table Mountain and overlooking nearby Fish Hoek on the eastern shores of False Bay. It was such a mystical journey into the area's ancient cliffs, and so aligned with the Pisces New Moon themes set out below. You can read and see more about this enchanted experience on my Facebook page here

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Pisces New Moon at 12° arrives today for most of the world, except for western China east to the international date line where it will be early on the 3rd. In this New Moon window, the intention to create and preserve something new going forward will be strong. Venus finally moves outside of its retrograde shadow for the first time in 15 weeks, escorted during this new month by achievement-oriented Mars and fueled by transformative Pluto. 

In my last blog just before last year's December Solstice, I stated that looking ahead, 2022 would prove more intense than 2020 or 2021. In that vein, as all astrological cycles link and feed off each other, I see the remainder of 2022 as a snowball gathering greater momentum, yet continuing to unpredictably move into the heretofore mentioned unknown. 

Humanity is now being ushered by powerful cyclical archetypal forces whose roots are imbued in profound evolutionary growth, and whose dynamic energy signals a time for accelerated and immense changes in the world's evolutionary path. The current war perpetrated on the nation of Ukraine is but one example of many conflicts around the world where the desire for freedom and self empowerment now strongly clash with its shadow components of oppression, poverty, and control.

Further, the grand themes of humanity's now rapid evolution are once again being strongly stirred out of their late 20th century slumber first by the intense Saturn Gemini/Pluto Sagittarius cycle of 2000-2002 (meltdown of beliefs and religious constructs), Uranus Aries/Pluto Capricorn cycle of 2008-2020 (radical change vs meltdown of foundational structures), Saturn/Jupiter/Pluto's Capricorn grand conjunction of 2020-21 (intense control/limitations), and now furthered amplified by the once every 22 year cycle of  Saturn Aquarius/Uranus Taurus in 2021-22 (repression/lack of freedom vs progressive change). 

Saturn ruler of Capricorn and co-ruler of Aquarius, and Uranus, also co- ruler of Aquarius, are continuing to mirror the amplification of this theme of progressive change in profound ways. The epic confluence of these titanic archetypes has agitated and stirred people from all walks of life and perspectives into a caldron of societal change, revolutionary behavior and resistance, and an unshaking quest to find one's truth. Is it any wonder so much tension fills the ethers these days. And I must say from my astrological perch, I see the power of this unfolding cyclical polarity strongly testing humanity's inner mettle and resolve in the coming days, weeks and months for the remainder of 2022 into 2023. Such is the time in which we live, grow, stretch and transform.

New Moon Dynamics

Here's the New Moon annotated chart:

This current New Moon in Pisces by itself would under other more favorable circumstances prove uplifting and celebratory, especially with optimistic Jupiter close to the New Moon degree and once again in its home sign of Pisces. It's the very type of fuel that heightens creativity in the performance arts, music and video realms.  However, this New Moon is strongly influenced by other chart dynamics of greater intensity. That includes the triple conjunction of Venus, Mars and Pluto in late degree of Capricorn (rules, politics, governance, and business), and Mercury and Saturn together in Aquarius, each further magnifying the previously mentioned Saturn/Uranus cycle through the end of this year (status quo/autocratic rule vs progressive advances). Such components radically change the complexion of this New Moon's narrative from uplifting and expansive to a more shadow oriented and very inward soul reevaluation.

As such, Pisces shadow side becomes stronger at this lunation, further fueled by Jupiter's unduly optimistic nature and Neptune's delusional shadow tendencies. In that vein, this darker expression can be imbued with trickery and driven strongly by misinformation or deception. It can also further give rise to addictive drugs for purposes of escape (as we've seen in the last decade in the opioid surge) rather than spiritual enlightenment and deeper connection to the natural world. And it can challenge the very essence of empathy and sensitivity to those who struggle in life.

The golden opportunity though is to look within; to examine where you have detached from reality through avoidance and/or addiction tendencies to avoid feeling pain and suffering. Yes, I know that's rather a heavy mandate, but that's the essence of the energetic soup at the moment. On the flip side of this inward expression, this journey within opens a door for creating a new reality, one much more in alignment with your soul mandate as you energetically strip away that which doesn't serve your highest purpose for being alive on this planet NOW. 

Voyager Tarot

Lastly, Venus, who entered its retrograde shadow on November 19, then stationed retrograde conjunct to Pluto just before the December solstice, emerges from this almost 15 week shadow journey the day after the New Moon. In tandem now with Mars, the archetypal expressions of the feminine and masculine qualities within us, they track together through most of March, next crossing into freedom seeking Aquarius on March 6th where powerful alignments occur with Uranus in Taurus on March 19-22 (self esteem, values, money, possessions) and Saturn on March 28-April 5 (autocracy vs freedom). 

What Venus/Mars current encounter with Pluto at this New Moon or the coming interaction with Saturn/Uranus later in the month triggers remains to be seen. One possibility here, especially with Spring season beginning in the northern hemisphere, is a strong resurgence of mass protests, civil disobedience and political upheaval in various places around the world where people have felt oppressed, held back and freedoms have been restricted. Also, given the strong building Piscean influence at play there's more coming in the realm of climate change triggered by increased solar activity (we are now headed towards Solar Maximum in 2025) and environmental destruction, and strong viral concerns still influencing human activity.

Yet most importantly, Pisces' global influence reminds us all we are connected to a greater web of awareness that knows no bias, polarity or class divisions. When one suffers, we all suffer in some deep way within our psyches. 

With that said, I offer the following suggestions at this New Moon:

Immerse yourself in the natural world through outdoor activities 
Attune to the power of sacred sites
Raise the vibrational level of media content you watch, read or listen to
Surround yourself with people who are at your level of conscious awareness or higher
Pray and meditate (my mediation is a daily brisk walk amongst the elements where I live)
Participate in uplifting group activities such as a retreat or program
Connect with others in a meaningful, soulful way

Conclusion

Summer now wanes here in South Africa. I can sense the beginnings of the Autumn. I know that must sound quite strange to those of you who live in the now colder Northern Hemisphere where winter still holds on to its icy grip. Nonetheless, the seasonal shift as we near the Equinox on March 20th reminds us that life is about cycles, the yin and yang. Pisces the last sign of the zodiac prepares us for something new, regardless of where we live. Embrace this shift. Strengthen yourself physically, emotionally and mentally for the coming days.

On a personal level, I am developing a land, sea and sky Retreat here in South Africa called South Africa Tanzanite Retreat - an Inner & Outer Soul Journey. The precious stone Tanzanite, only found at the base of Mt Kilimanjaro in Tanzania, is a stimulator of higher vibrations throughout the body. It enhances spiritual growth on all energetic levels.

And primal Africa is the perfect location to shift one's energetic field into even higher frequencies.  

Over thirty years, I have worked with groups from a wide variety of cultures who I would consider soul seekers: those discovering the deeper meanings of life through soul searching internally and externally. Over the past 6 years I have been led to work with individuals who run large businesses, investors who manage large funds, and other financial types, each of whom function in the realm of wellness products and progressive initiatives. These are people who influence many other people simply by the choices and decisions they make on a day-to-day basis in their respective industries.

In my desire to humbly influence a broader audience to look within, while recognizing I work best with smaller groups of 8 to 10 people,  I decided to create a unique retreat format specifically designed to work with such influential people who function at a high income strata. It follows that meaningful changes experienced by participants in such a retreat can become a potent catalyst for their developing a more organic, sentient connection to this Earth and beyond. Rudolf Steiner spoke of this as the awakening of the super-sensibilities within the body. On that level there is no I. One is all and all is one. 

As such, my primary audience will be people who have a strong influence on larger groups of people such as entrepreneurs, investors, celebrities, sports types, business owners, and upper management types. An important criteria will be a person who hungers for something more in their lives than just the accumulation of possessions and status, and who also possess the desire to invest in themselves, and more consciously invest in efforts to create a more sustainable reality in alignment with this planet's consciousness. These are the very people who influence many other people. Effecting meaningful, progressive change at that energetic level can create a strong positive rippling effect for a much broader audience. In that sense, everyone in that rippling circle benefits. 

Tanzanite

This 11-day transformative journey for 8 to 10 participants will include 2 sunset and 1 sunrise safari excursions to attune to Africa's fabled big 5 animals; an ocean excursion to connect with the abundant ocean life here, including whales and dolphins; and sacred transmissions received under the grand world-class sky canopy of the Southern Milky Way, and within the cave structures of some of Earth's oldest mountains such as described in the beginning of this blog. 

For the internal piece, my Quantum Alignment Bodywork Group Sessions, refined over the past thirty years, will be experienced four times during the Retreat. Additionally, sunrise yoga, movement, and sound will form the integrative parts that help participants assimilate and ground these profound land, sea and sky experiences. The combination of the external and internal will literally alter and enhance the energetic flow of participants reality. All meals will be organic and professionally catered. Support will be staffed at the local level here. This is an energy-rich exchange from start to finish.

I'm so excited about the possibilities. I've prepared myself for many years for this moment. Significant global cultural changes over the past two years have set the stage for an accelerated shift. And of course, the perfect situations, experiences and people met over the past two years has set the stage for the ultimate Retreat experience.

But that's not all. As importantly, using proceeds from the retreats, I will create a foundation here in South Africa to fully fund a similar Retreat format for young adults who are ready to take a much bigger and accelerated step in their evolutionary growth, but have yet to acquire the financial wherewithal to invest in such an experience. This younger generation's energetic field is attuned to the current higher frequencies. Their talents and abilities are profound. Such an experience will literally be a catapult greatly enhancing their ability to effect meaningful change on the planet in the coming years.

The inspiration to work with young adults in this retreat format came out of bodywork sessions I gave to a 21-year old woman in mid 2021 into this year. She had struggled the past 6 years with suicidal tendencies (four attempts) and strong social withdrawal. When I first saw her, she was on 7 different medications for depression, extreme anxiety, and strong mood swings. Her sensitivity field was literally numb and highly protected.

Her first session she learned that her strong sensitivities were a gift rather than a bane (she's super empathic). Her body quickly started to let go of strong tension patterns depleting her energetic fields. I saw her twice before I left for the United States for almost 5 months. During my absence she decided on her own volition to stop taking the medications. She experienced zero side-effects even though any medical person will say it's dangerous to do so. Upon my return in late October, her body quickly connected into the new energetic strategies acquired in her first 2 sessions. 

She now smiles a lot (noticeable especially to her Mom/Dad), is engaging socially, has started working with dogs (they love her) and looks forward to her now once every two week sessions with me. She is discovering the power of her sensitive field from a very different orientation. And this coming about from brief 25 minute table sessions. From my perspective, her body strategies have received quite an upgrade. Potent reminder to never underestimate the body's capacity to shift into a different frequency given the right type of conscious input.

If such dramatic shifts can occur on a 1:1 basis, receiving such energetic care with a group of young adults in a Retreat format will redefine what's possible for this highly energized younger generation. A total win/win for everyone concerned.

At the moment, I am exploring ways to financially seed the organizational development of a structure supporting such a retreat endeavor. If you have any specific suggestions, or know of anyone willing to invest in such an enterprise, please contact me.

As always, I'm available for private astrological consultations via Zoom or Skype. It's such a powerful time to explore new initiatives and realities for the days ahead.

I welcome your comments below.

Sat Nam

Starman, Joseph Mina
March 2, 2022
Stellenbosch, Western Cape, South Africa

Pisces New Moon March 2021: Amplifying the Dreamtime

“You see things; and you say, ‘Why?' But I dream things that never were; and I say, ‘Why not?" George Bernard Shaw - Irish playwright (1856-1950)

“There are some people who live in a dream world, and there are some who face reality; and then there are those who turn one into the other.” 
Douglas H. Everett - British Chemist/Academic Author (1916-2002)

We arrive near mid-month, a potent junction of time and space, to briefly step beyond the bounds of reality before the change of season arrives a week from now. Yes, we stand at the doorstep of the Pisces New Moon and its energetic merging not only with the Sun, but Venus and its higher octave Neptune too. Welcome to the dreamtime on steroids.

Before I get to the primary focus (you’ll see why that’s an unintended pun in a moment), I wanted to briefly mention this very potent New Moon dynamic. Pisces, the last sign of the zodiac represents the end point or conclusion of the zodiac. In that sense, its all encompassing theme of oneness implies an archetypal merging of the eleven other zodiacal members. It’s the culmination of life’s journey, a turn of the wheel, an end before a beginning.

New Moon arrives today (13th and my Solar Return day). Only other time a New Moon occurred on my birthday was in 2002. Also, I have had two Full-Moon birthdays, one in 1960 and the other 1979. Each of these lunar events on my Solar Return day proved significant in my growth and evolution in the year that followed.

At this New Moon, especially as a new season awaits at the coming Equinox (20th for most of the world (near midnight on 19th in Hawaii)), we are encouraged to dream big, especially over the next 2 weeks; to embrace the mysteries of life through our connection to the natural world, to be compassionate to self and others, and to heighten our awareness and expand our purpose for being on this earthly plane. 

Yet, important to remember that Neptunian energy, especially as it transits its Piscean home sign can cast spells too over one’s perspective. This can lead to delusion, addiction patterns and over-sensitivity. Neptune also rules the unseen, which includes the microbial world. 

Uranus in Taurus, especially in its square now to Saturn reminds us to stay grounded, receive meaningful bodywork/energy work to stay strong and clear, and to set aside down time to avoid overload. It also reminds us the evolution of humanity depends on forward thinking. The past is past. Building bridges leads us to a new Earth reality.

For my birthday, I’m headed to the mountains north of here to drink in the magnificent, spellbinding Southern Hemisphere night sky. There I’ll meet up with some dedicated amateur astronomers who spend hours photographing various celestial wonders. Being washed over by starlight is the ultimate birthday gift for me! And to be able to see such grandeur through large telescopes is simply cosmic icing on the galactic cake!

And now on to the blog….

Archetypal Neptune in part rules imagery, including video, movies etc. A movie is a stitching of many images: each frame an illusion of a moment. It also expresses its vibration through music. In this blog, I am sharing four images I photographed during my Japan journeys over the past 3 years with commentary about each image. This was not an easy selection, as I have a lot of memorable images. However in the spirit of the Pisces Moon I’ve selected the following as representation of what this Moon offers:

First up - Messages To The Beyond (click or tap on an image to enlarge it)

Photographed at a temple in the mountains near Japan’s ancient capital of Kyoto, these wooden placards, common in Japan, are placed by Shinto and Buddhist worshippers after writing prayers or wishes. And there they artfully hang in gratitude to the kami (spirits or gods) for receiving their messages. In Pisces, we reach beyond the veil of reality to embrace the realm of the soul and its poignant mysteries.

This is a wide-angle perspective to give the viewer an on-going feeling of continuation for many prayers and wishes found here.

Next - Mystical Ontake (own-ta-kay)

High in the central mountains of Japan are some memorable peaks, including Mt. Fuji. And while Fuji is the quintessential symbol of Japan, the peak pictured here is also quite revered. This is Ontake in the early morning autumn light, the day after Full Moon in Nagano Prefecture. Snow capped throughout most of the year, its 10,000+ ft (3067m) summit watches over this bountiful area of Nagano, Japan. 

Ontake is an active volcano, which last erupted unexpectedly with a methane explosion in 2014, killing 63 people who had ventured to the summit. Nonetheless, a shrine is found at the summit, and visited by many people each year. Close up or from afar, Mt. Ontake is such a stirring sight throughout the day. I chose to portray this scene in mostly black and white with the slightest hint of color to further bring focus to these mountains in the distance. Telephoto lens slightly compressed the scene for added effect. The Moon was part of this amazing early morning delight.

Torii Gates

Found at many shrines in Japan (did you know Japan has over 85,000 shrines throughout the country!), these red gates symbolize the boundary between the shrine’s sacred mystical space and ordinary space. As I walked through the gates I had the feeling I’m was stepping back through time, or entering a land beyond time and space. Getting this shot was not easy. Popular shrines are usually crowded. So to be able to photograph the ongoing flow of the red gates without anyone blocking the long path was a sign the shrine watchers were fully supportive of my creative touch, or I was just plain lucky (I think it’s the former).

This is another wide-angle capture to emphasize the elongation of the path and accentuate the on-going red gates, leading to a mysterious place. Also, the image was taken from a very low angle. In photography, seeing life from a different perspective heightens the mood and energy exchange of the scene. By the way, that low angle is essential when photographing young children to capture vividly how they see life. 

And lastly, Chaos and Stability

I love experiencing the rapid, icy streams coming from the high glacier passes of Japan’s central mountains. This very cold water is energized as it rushes over boulders and rocks on its way to the main rivers and ultimately the Pacific Ocean or Sea of Japan. I refer to this area of Japan's Honshu island as Chi Heaven. In this scene I wanted to emphasize the contrast between the rushing, fluid water and the solid rock. The illusion of stability right there. Over time, the continuous surge of water will melt away the rock. And so too such is the mysterious transformative nature of Neptune. Where Pluto energy melts down anything in its path, equally powerful Neptune dissolves that which stands fast. That includes one's understanding of reality imbued by family, tradition and culture. 

As an aside, Neptune and Pluto are now in a building sextile aspect, coming to an exact sextile in 2026. Because of Pluto's eccentric orbit, the energetic dance between these two archetypes will weave magic into the consciousness over a 6-year period and 13 exact meetings. This portends the dispelling of unnatural restrictions and delusional beliefs to usher a new wave of power. I'll write more in coming blogs.

This is a slow-shuttered image using a tripod. Using a slower speed smoothes out the water imparting a sense of rapid movement (great paradox!). It was photographed in the late afternoon.

Also, I will be posting more of my images in future blogs. Next time I'll share some of my favorite aerial images taken during my many travels. Meanwhile, I’m exploring various ways to show my images to a wider audience.

Finally, 2021 is proving to be as intense as 2020, except there’s positive movement underway. What has been learned from such a massive reset? What’s ahead? These and other questions serve as a foundation for an astrological consultation. Times of immense change require new strategies, perspective and creativity. My astrological consultations are transformative, offering guidance for navigating the current rapid changes and reorganizing your approach to life. 

As always, I am available for a professional astrological consultation session to help you better understand these profound shifts in the context of your birth chart. 

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

As the shift occurs between seasons, remember the energetic field is quite fluid and unpredictable. Moving your energy, communing with nature, staying focused are strategies that will make the seasonal transition more meaningful and grounded.

Sat Nam

Starman, Joseph Mina
Stellenbosch, Western Cape, South Africa
March 13, 2021

Virgo Full Moon: A Call To Service

"The best way to find yourself is to lose yourself in the service of others." 
Mahatma Gandi

"Everybody can be great...because anybody can serve. You don't have to have a college degree to serve. You don't have to make your subject and verb agree to serve. You only need a heart full of grace. A soul generated by love."
Martin Luther King

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Such stirring quotes from two mystical, yet very practical sages on this day of heightened service...this day of the Virgo Full Moon. 

Full Moon arrives today at 10:17 am in South Africa, 3:17 am on the East Coast, just after midnight on the US West Coast, and late at night on the 26th in Hawaii. UTC is 8:17 am on the 27th. In the other direction, 5:17 pm in Japan and 9:17 pm in New Zealand. Important to get these Virgo facts straight!

Virgo underscores the power of sacred service to others. It also brings the energetic spotlight on your health and well being. Ruled by Mercury, Virgo brings its laser-like focus on life's details. This sometimes rather hard Virgo edge though is softened by its Piscean underbelly of compassion, mysticism and empathic connection to the global community.

Full Moon, Klein River Lagoon, Stanford, South Africa
by Joseph Mina

With the Sun now transiting mystical Pisces, we pause at this Full Moon to reflect on how we want to be of greater service in the days ahead. Meanwhile humanity continues in turmoil as it reorganizes from a very intense 2020. As I mentioned last year, 2021 will add to 2020's intensity as we prepare ourselves for the next wave of heightened awareness and greater social responsibility and progress.

As Pisces' ruler Neptune continues its epic transit through its home sign, compassion, grace, empathy, soul understanding and global connection become ever more important extensions of how we share our gifts and talents with others in the spirit of greater service. Also Neptune in Pisces has spawned an enormous wave of creativity in the performing arts and imagery. Quite exciting.

This Full Moon sets the stage for the two-weeks ahead leading to a strong mystical Pisces surge at the coming Pisces New Moon on March 13th. On that day, Venus, Neptune, Moon, and the Sun form a close conjunction and further fuel a potent sextile with Pluto in Capricorn. That combination amplifies a soul intention for compassionate global awareness, empowerment, strengthened self-esteem, values, direction and oneness. Also, on that transcendental day, Mercury emerges from its retrograde shadow after almost 9 weeks in Aquarius. 

In turn, the fleet messenger will enter Pisces on March 16th for a 3-week Piscean transit broadcasting the Aquarius message from its retrograde journey. This transit will include a conjunction with Neptune on March 30th. More progressive messages in the offing from the realm of the beyond the beyond .

Further amplifying today's Full Moon is an amazing grouping (see annotated/abbreviated chart) that brings a clearer understanding of this Full Moon's overall theme of service. That grouping includes (reference annotated numbers)

1 - Saturn in Aquarius in square to Uranus in Taurus - essentially the old versus the progressive new. On a deeper level, as more of the Aquarius age comes into form, Saturn wants integration/grounding/structure for Uranus' progressive breakthroughs. Therein lies the struggle on many levels between letting go of the past in order to fully embrace the future. 

2 - A Yod - Saturn along with its sextile to Chiron in Aries each form a quincunx (150° angle) to the Virgo Moon creating a potent Yod (finger of God) geometry. As this is a Full Moon, the Pisces Sun (3) creates a strong opposition focus at the mid-point of the Saturn/Chiron sextile. 

A Yod configuration implies a paradoxical solution to an otherwise awkward mix of energy. Since Chiron entered Aries in 2018-19, its healing quest has focused on reclaiming one's individuated uniqueness despite cultural and family impositions for conformity and adherence to social mores. This emphasis is further amplified for those born while Chiron transited Aries last (1968-77), and for anyone with significant cardinal placements in their natal chart (Aries/Cancer/Libra/Capricorn). Joined with Saturn, a collective quest of individuated, unique parts gives support/strength to the Piscean intention of global harmony, awareness and oneness - many diverse parts create the one. Said another way, it's through our individuated gifts that we grow stronger together.

The last piece (4) is Uranus' trine (120° angle) to the Moon and its 60° sextile to the Pisces Sun. That implies two intentions. 1)Taurus points to the Earth and the make up of our physical bodies. Hence, the Full Moon in part encourages you to bring greater compassionate (Pisces) awareness to your body and its health, especially through physical touch (bodywork). 2) Equally, that same Virgo focus is directed to your relationship with the Earth itself and the opportunity to deepen your connection to the very planet that sustains you.

Suggestions and Reflections for this Full Moon

Going back to a blog I wrote for the 2015 Virgo Full Moon, I found my suggestions then are just as timely now. They are:

Receive bodywork...take care of yourself
Reorganize your daily priorities
Clean your living space...even make a Feng Shui appointment!!!
Show compassion for those less fortunate in life
Dedicate yourself to renewed service for others
Create or strengthen a daily routine, ritual or practice
Strengthen your nurturing-like focus for what is most important in your life

Recommended questions for reflection:

Voyager Tarot by James Wanless

-In what areas of my life can I show more compassion and understanding?
-What events from the past call out to me for healing and completion?
-How do I feel about the future and my role of service in the world?
-What unique gifts of mine am I ready to share with the world?

Voyager Intuition Card for this Full Moon: What does this Virgo laser-like focus want us to know? 

Ace of Wands - Illumination. This is one of the Magician cards. As a spiritual focus (wands), this vibration brings light to where there has been darkness. It literally illuminates the field with greater awareness and direction. It's akin to walking into a dark room and turning on a light. Brilliance vanquishes the heretofore unseen.

Coming Astrological Events
All planetary archetypes are now in direct motion and continue so until Pluto turns retrograde in late April. That's a lot of forward progress in the field for productive actions. Also:
Mars enters Gemini - March 4
Pisces New Moon March 13 10:21 UTC
Mercury enters Pisces - March 16
Equinox March 20th 9:37 UTC
Venus enters Aries March 21

Conclusion
In a world of turmoil many now seek answers to unanswerable questions. Yet these very life questions trigger insight, creativity, choices and new direction in our evolutionary quest to create a healthier and more connected world society. Matters of health are significantly heightened these days thanks in part to an unseen viral spread. Important to remember the very elemental substance that makes up our physical body is the same elemental matter that makes up the Earth. We are connected to planet Earth and its vibrational field. 

Equally, the very vibration that powers this planet, also powers/fuels/motivates us through our physical forms. Beyond the current social question about whether or not to vaccinate or how to social distance etc, it's imperative now to focus on physically, emotionally and mentally strengthening your body's core. The Earth's planetary vibration is continuing to increase. 

Back in 2008, I noted the vibrational field was getting stronger and amplifying beyond anything we could comprehend, especially in the years ahead. That message is even more poignant now. As I gaze energetically ahead at the coming astrological cycles, I see huge changes in the mix over the next 11 years, changes that will make the previous 20 years of change seem rather slow. While younger generations are more attuned to this building vibration, it's incumbent on both younger and older generations to raise the inner body frequencies to attune to this building wave: literally a time to expand your energetic bandwidth through bodywork, yoga, wellness modalities etc.

2021 is a year ripe for reorganizing and reestablishing your focus in a sea of immense change. The coming years will build upon this 2020-21 foundation, creating a world significantly different than the one we used to know. How will you navigate such change? 

As always, I am available for a professional astrological consultation session to help you better understand these profound shifts in the context of your birth chart. 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

Next blog - more of my images. If you missed my recent blog featuring some of my photographic work and the stories behind the images, you can access it here.

Sat Nam

Starman, Joseph Mina

Stellenbosch, South Africa

February 27, 2021

Total Solar Eclipse Super New Moon March 8...Pisces Flood

"Infuse your life with  action. Don't wait for it to happen. Make it happen. Make your own  future. Make your own hope. Make your own love. And whatever your  beliefs, honor your creator, not by passively waiting for grace to come  down from upon high, but by doing what you can to make grace happen...  yourself, right now, right down here on Earth." Bradley Whitford, Actor and Political Activist

#supermoon #totaleclipse #PiscesNewMoon

Aloha Everyone

This update is rather out of the blue...in fact, quite Uranian. I haven't created an update here for a year as I have focused on other pursuits instead of astrology writing. Yet thanks to a rather recent and persistent voice in my head, I’ve decided to weigh-in on today’s significant total solar eclipse. That voice was fueled in part by a very recent unexpected last minute astrology consultation for a new client whose significant Piscean natal aspects just happened to be exact to this eclipse position.

As an aside, I'll surprisingly drop-in here once in a while as the spirit moves or nudges me, offering my Aquarius big picture thoughts about certain significant astrological events. If you are looking for the astrological nitty-gritty (usually Virgo types do), there are plenty of other astrologers writing on a much more frequent basis. An internet search will hook you up with them.

Before I get to the eclipse, I want to mention I expect 2016 will prove to be more intense than the

Total Solar Eclipse and Equinox: March 20: A hui hou

"The Road goes ever on and on
Down from the door where it began.
Now far ahead the Road has gone,
And I must follow, if I can,
Pursuing it with eager feet,
Until it joins some larger way,
Where many paths and errands meet.
And whither then? I cannot say."

Bilbo's Poem by Tolkien, The Lord of the Rings

We arrive at the total solar eclipse of the Pisces New Moon occurring just 13 hours before the Vernal Equinox.  Quite rare to have a total solar eclipse coincide with the March change of seasons. Only 4 more times will this event occur in this Century.

By contrast, and to underscore the rarity of this cycle, the last series occurred in the 1600 's. Yes...rare indeed. But not as rare as one other facet of this eclipse cycle. This eclipse will end at the North Pole, where the Moon's umbral shadow will be followed by the rising Sun in Aries!  You literally have to go back or forward thousands of years to find a solar eclipse  ending at the North Pole at the Vernal Equinox. Such magical times we live in...magical times!

Adding more energy to the mix, this New Moon is the 3rd of 3 Super New Moons in 2015. Perigee Moons are symbolic of a higher or stronger vibration driving the lunation's theme. So all in one day, we have a Super New Moon eclipse, the start of a new season, the start of the astrological year, and another saros 18 year eclipse cycle beginning. That's a lot of new energy to arrive on your doorstep. Hence, the energetic field is very ripe for starting something new, or enhancing your creativity.

For the eclipse, the Sun/Moon positions at the very end degree of Pisces. In part, Pisces signifies the ending of the Zodiac. It's where the energy from the 11 other astrological vibrations comes together to become one. Hence, see this time symbolically as one of unifying and completing a huge cycle of the past 2,000+ years. This points energetically towards humanity slowly leaving the Piscean Age, moving towards a much more Aquarian futuristic vibration of social equality, justice and technological breakthroughs.

AstroActivators© 2002 by Kathryn Andren

The most important component of this lunation is the recent last square of Uranus and Pluto, which occurred just 4 days ago. This coincided with massive solar flares directed towards Earth, disrupting communications in parts of the Earth  Uranus vibe is the shock to the senses for something new...Pluto is the force that melts down what no longer works. While the effect of these 2 transformative archetypes initiated in 2011 continues into 2018, an opportunity exists NOW to use this dynamic fuel by embracing a new way of expressing and sharing your gifts in the world.

More so, this potent transformative rocket fuel further energizes this solar eclipse vibration taking its imagery, symbolic nature, and potential into a much bigger arena embracing all cultures in the world.

Lastly, Solar eclipse periods take you inward to explore new avenues wanting to be fueled or expressed and activated. This is a powerful time to visualize new beginnings and initiatives while letting go of that which no longer serves your highest intentions for being on this planet NOW!

Conclusion:

Self-Portrait, Kyoto Japan May 2014

As I shared almost a month ago, the Pisces New Moon marks the completion or ending of my Astrological Updates, as well as my actively seeking new work in the astrological realm. I love astrology. It comes so easy to me. And I have felt so grateful to be able to share its magic with others, as well as use its guidance for making choices in my life. And yet, I realize stronger inner voices call me to embrace a new style of creativity. While at least for the foreseeable future I'll continue to offer astrological consultations for anyone who asks, I will no longer advertise or promote my astrological services. Also, I'll continue to talk about the astrological cycles (how can I not???) to groups, but only in concert with other pursuits of mine such as photography and bodywork.

I first started writing Astrology Updates back in 2002. It's been a good run. Over the next few months I will reorganize my life to match my new direction. Possibly, I'll return to this type of forum to share my photographic perspectives of the natural world and their underlying spiritual connection. That's one of a number of possibilities I'm now considering. In all respects "and wither than I cannot say" certainly applies here.

At this moment, I'm in Denver to attend an amazing weekend healing and growth event called AWE through the magical work of Donald Epstein DC. Then, one day after the weekend event, I'm off to the Cape area of South Africa and Zimbabwe to see the massive Mosi-oa-Tunya waterfalls...translated "the smoke that thunders" (also known as Victoria Falls). I'll return to the United States in mid-April, where I'll spend a week in California. There, Stephanie Bridwell, an amazing chiropractor, and I will lead a "Gateway to the Soul Healing Day". It's a powerful time and opportunity to receive bodywork through the feminine and masculine touch in a group setting. If interested, contact Magnolia Wellness Center for more details.

I feel so excited about the opening of these new doors. May the same Aries surge bring you new opportunities, insights and renewed passion on whatever path you walk. I wish you all the best life has to offer in this time of massive transformation and significant global shifts.

As we say out here in Hawaii, "a hui hou" (a-hoo-eee hoe). Until we meet again.

Sat Nam

Aloha from Denver Colorado
Starman, Joseph Mina
March 19, 2015
©Gemini Awakening 2015 all rights reserved

Aquarius New Moon & Mercury Retrograde Jan 20: Planetary Vision 101

“Many people, especially ignorant people, want to punish you for speaking the truth, for being correct, for being you. Never apologize for being correct, or for being years ahead of your time. If you’re right and you know it, speak your mind. Speak your mind. Even if you are a minority of one, the truth is still the truth.”  Gandhi

"Our lives begin to end the day we become silent about things that matter."
Martin Luther King

"Hawai'i Day's End" by Joseph Mina

Sometimes creating these astrology updates takes on a rather surreal vibe. Poet Robert Burns once wrote "the best laid plans of mice and men" alluding to life's unexpected changes. Perhaps he wrote it during a Mercury Retrograde? Fast forward>>>Yesterday, I set out to prepare this update. My intention was to complete it unscathed by that thing called "Mercury Retrograde" and its rep for communication and travel snafus. Ha!! Well, right on time, the electrical power to the house cut out near sunset...instant computer shutdown...bye-bye plans...power finally restored 11 hours later. Turns out a driver, allegedly inebriated from football partying, decided his pick-up truck and a nearby utility pole needed to talk to each other. But I digress. Mercury Retrograde...unexpected changes in plans. The gift...amazing night sky full of stars across the sweep of the Milky Way, and early to bed for a longer than usual night's sleep (my body was happy). Mercury Retrograde indeed!

And in the spirit of "indeed"...we are coming to the end of quite an intense lunation begun at the Cancer Full Moon 2 weeks ago. And take heed...more strong headwinds are in the offing as we enter an enhanced Aquarian/Pisces vibration over the coming weeks.

Aquarius points to social justice and equality. Pisces underscores the global consciousness and our interconnection within the field of oneness. This combination strongly reflects current events making headlines, as well as shifts and changes flowing through many people's lives right now. As with any

Super Full Moon Pisces Sept 8: Vision Expansion 101

"Cherish your visions and your dreams as they are the children of your soul, the blueprints of your ultimate achievements."   Napolean Hill (1883-1970) Author

Beaming by Derick Van Ness

What is your vision for sharing your gifts in the world? Has it been languishing of late? Have you contemplated recently upgrading your dreams and the direction of your life? Are you clear about the next steps you want to take? Ponder no more! On September 8th, the Full Moon in Pisces arrives to assist you with opening your vision to greater possibilities.

The world is stirred. Intensity continues to build. Not a day goes by without mention of global warming, extreme weather challenges, strife in the Middle East and Asia, political contentiousness, racial profiling and disparity, and financial  uncertainty. Yet, great changes always fuel adversity and challenges. It's the critical tension that births a new expression and direction.

And sometimes that critical tension arrives in the most subtle or sensitive of ways. September's Full Moon lunation may be such a herald...yet on a weather level...water events may be anything but subtle.

Where: Full Moon occurs at 16° Pisces conjunct Chiron. This is the 3rd of 3 Super Full Moons of 2014

When: 3:38 PM, Hawaiian Standard Time on Monday the 8th. That's 6:38 PM PDT, 9:38 EDT, and

Pisces New Moon Feb 28: Sensitivity 101

“It really boils down to this: that all life is interrelated. We are all caught in an inescapable network of mutuality, tied into a single garment of destiny. Whatever affects one destiny, affects all indirectly.” ― Martin Luther King Jr.

"Integration Station" iPad sketch by Joseph Mina

"To everything, turn, turn, turn, there is a season, turn, turn, turn...." Pete Seeger, American folk singer and activist, penned then sang these mystical words back in the 1950's. His recent death in late January brings to mind how seasons end...then begin anew. As we reach the Pisces New Moon on February 28, we embrace both the end of the astrological procession through Pisces...and await the new and seemingly exciting season to come through Aries. Turn...turn...turn....

Pisces calls us home to be part of the greater collective. Yet, despite its sensitive, compassionate and peaceful magnetism, this calling occurs in a sea of great planetary uncertainty, intensity, change and transformation. In some quarters, such as the Ukraine, Syria, Iraq or Pakistan, a boiling fervor ignites a call for freedom from oppression, while in other areas highly