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.
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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!

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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

Aries New Moon April 1: New Initiatives & Life Choices

 "Re-examine all you have been told in school or church or in any book, and dismiss whatever insults your own soul, and your very flesh shall be a great poem, and have the richest fluency, not only in words, but in the silent lines of its lips and face and between the lashes of your eyes, and in every motion and joint of your body." - Walt Whitman, Preface to Leaves of Grass

Greetings Seekers and Lovers of the Night Sky...

Plate Development by Joseph Mina

Aries New Moon arrives today portending a two-week period of building intensity in anticipation of the Libra Full Moon on April 16th and its square to Pluto in Capricorn. Seems this Universe is clueless when it comes to taking a vacation break. 😉

Walt Whitman's quoted ode above reminds us this raw, edgy time in which we live is a transformative stepping stone into a new reality. He encourages you to exchange yourself for a new version of you. Free yourself of constraining labels or beliefs. There exists infinite possibilities in a multi-verse of infinite Universes. On this Aries New Moon, invite in a new version of yourself and take steps to actualize it. There's a process of shedding old skin that's part of this exchange inviting the transformative energies of Pluto to assist you. This requires Aries traits of courage and a willingness to explore new ground.

Archetypal Aries is raw, primal, highly creative, always in the present moment, passionate about the inner dance and ready to set the world on fire. Abraham Hicks might have been considering Aries types when this came through the channel medium: "people will love you...people will hate you...and none of it will have anything to do with you." And I'll add "your life won't be boring!"

Fool Child - Voyager Tarot

Pure Aries is fueled by impulsive energy. It is entirely self-focused on individuated growth and experiences. To others, such may seem hyper-energized, uncooperative or self-absorbed. Yet, someone has to take the lead...someone has to get the ball rolling in a particular direction or trend. Oh yes...strong Aries types are rarely around to see things completed, especially anyone with Ascendant (rising sign), Venus, or Mars in this individuated vibration. Fueled by novelty, "on to the next greatest thing" is their fuel and passion, and sometimes their greatest challenge. As such, following impulsive urges can prove to be a two-edged sword at this lunation. Learning the art/balance between discernment and impulsive action is very helpful for the Aries mojo that fills us all in varying degrees of intensity.

This particular Aries New Moon occurs at 11° and conjuncts both Mercury and Chiron. Conjunctions (same degree) add to the overall energy pattern. There is also a sextile (60° angular difference) adding to this theme. These combinations are further detailed below.

In the spirit of Aries desire to always "cut to the chase",
consider these introspections for this New Moon period: 

1 - What new steps am I ready to initiate on my life path?

2 - Am I feeling creative in my expressions and talents?

3 - Are these areas (1 & 2) congruent (in integrity) with what I want to manifest? If not, what needs to change in my life to align my actions with my heart's desire?

4 - Is my sense of self in alignment with my behaviors within my relationships? (intimate, work and/or friendship)

5 - Am I taking the time to stay energetically clear and strong? If not, what has to change to better nurture my body in a more progressive way (Uranus in Taurus theme).

6 - And in that vein, am I taking the time to strengthen my physical body? If no, what needs to change to better help my body align and attune with the ever increasing Earth vibration?

Here's the New Moon Chart with descriptive annotations:

Plate Development by Joseph Mina

What I find intriguing about this New Moon dynamics....

The Sun/Moon joins Chiron and Mercury in Aries. Chiron points to the inner wounding. In Aries, it underscores (especially childhood) challenges around being seen, appreciated, understood and encouraged within the family or any other cultural institution, such as school. Mercury is the messenger accessing memories from the Chiron experience. Sun/Moon in Aries desires something new or novel and immediate. With Chiron in tow, it seeks resolution or healing from the emotional and mental heaviness of the past. Sometimes this means closing doors in order that new doors may open. To further define this dynamic...

...a potent sextile (60°) angle commands attention in this chart.  A sextile is a 60° angle between 2 planetary positions. It's an easy flowing expression of energy. In this case the aforementioned New Moon group and asteroid Ceres at 13° Gemini create this sextile pattern. 

One of the four largest asteroids between Mars and Jupiter, Ceres in mythology is the daughter of Zeus or Jupiter in Roman lore. Ceres is described as the Earth Mother. She is associated with health, nutrition, agriculture and fertility. Her symbol represents transition, motherhood and nurturing. She is that inner/outer archetypal connection to what nourishes or supports you. It's helpful to know the placement of Ceres in your natal chart, as that points to what feeds and sustains you energetically. 

When Ceres transits very changeable Gemini, your mental or thought processes and connections to the higher mind become your focus. Perhaps you are now considering joining a meditation, spiritual group, book club, acting classes etc. to further add depth, fun and/or clarity to your life's spiritual journey. Anything that stimulates progressive discussion or uplifting actions is fertile ground here for new initiatives. 

As Ceres completes its current transit in Gemini over the next 6 weeks (enters Cancer on May 15), energies are favorable for engaging with other like-minded seekers, or even to create new alignments with others of similar values in support of your spiritual quest. And of course there's shadow potential here too. Around May 1, transiting Ceres will create a square (90°) challenge with Jupiter, Venus and Neptune in Pisces. This will be an ideal point to reevaluate any changes you have initiated in April to determine whether other considerations ought to occur before proceeding forward. See the introspections above, especially number 3 for further exploration. And speaking of Jupiter and Neptune...

...this potent archetypal duo meet for the first time since 1856 in their home sign of Pisces around April 12th. While this combination unto itself appears quite uplifting and inspiring, it occurs now under Pluto's strong influence in Capricorn. Given Jupiter's optimistic/expansive vibration and Neptune's penchant for seeing into the unknown and attuning to a more soulful vibration, a stronger tendency exists for misunderstanding and delusional choices. As a remedy for such, grounding-type exercises are essential to discern what feels true to you vs what does not. Anything embraced at first blush without conscious understanding of your choices may create undesirable outcomes. And lastly...

Plate Development by Joseph Mina

...there's Saturn, Venus and Mars in Aquarius. As I wrote in my previous blog, since early February Venus and Mars have been close together by degree, first in Capricorn just as Venus was ending its retrograde and now in Aquarius. Both archetypes have been under very strong Pluto influences too. Externally, the war in the Ukraine has been fought under this potent combination's transit the past two months. Add restrictive/limiting Saturn to the mix and the resulting aggressive tendencies on all levels of culture have been nothing short of off the charts, something I described as a possibility in my last blog. 

This combination is a strong reevaluation/reorganizational point for what's meaningful in your life; what creates freedom; what is progressive and aligned with desires for social justice and equality; what creates greater harmony between the feminine and masculine internally and externally.

We have witnessed the shadow side of this energetic coin all too recently - from massive forced migrations in the Ukraine to a bizarre aggressiveness at the recent Oscar's. Contrast always defines. Other multiple conflicts around the world further underscore this contrast. Yet the very fuel of this intensity can be used for productive and creative expressions. And it all starts within you as you explore how the Venus and Mars components of your natal chart best work synergistically and energetically within yourself and when with others. Which brings my focus back to...

...Venus, now starting to pull away from Mars and Saturn and soon to enter softer, more soulful Pisces on April 5th. In the interim, Mars/Saturn will continue to intensify until Mars enters Pisces 10 days later. The weakening connection between these two personal planetary archetypes may be sufficient to effect a much needed truce between Russia and Ukraine as well as other ongoing conflicts. These initiatives will be on the front burner over the next two weeks as the energy builds to the Libra Full Moon on April 16 mentioned at the beginning of this blog. 

All and all, these New Moon dynamics continue 2022's strong societal patterning of the old falling away, new alliances being created, and a growing determination, especially through the younger generations, to create a more sustainable existence on planet Earth.

Golden Days by Joseph Mina

Conclusion: A recent consultation with a client revealed strong family challenges involving her two year old. Children born over the last ten years or so have powerful sensitivities to everything around them. In utero, they recognize this current fast vibration intimately. And they are now here to shift this challenging juggernaut into a more sustainable reality. Hence, environmental and cultural intensity can easily be magnified in their actions and emotional behaviors, literally expressing what is being repressed around them. It is for this reason I consider it a matter of necessity more than than choice to introduce children to energetic bodywork whether they are new born or in their teenage years. Their advanced nervous systems and energetic fields are primed for such higher vibrational work.

Receiving such care can fine tune their energetic systems to be more entrained and aligned with the current acceleration of solar system and galactic frequencies. It's a powerful example of  the value of self-nurturing care and its importance in navigating life. It also strengthens their body's core foundations for the more massive societal changes in the offing over the next 10 years.

Aries energy is attuned to the inner child. In its highest expression, it is playful and engaging. No matter what your age, this Aries New Moon vibration over the next two weeks can be used to initiate a wellness protocol that enhances your quality of life and those of your family members. Such action inspires you to stretch into new ground, which is fundamental to the changes we now witness.

The coming planetary cycles over the remainder of 2022 are a continuation of life changing and transformative choices and decisions. For example, in May, a very potent total lunar eclipse will grace the sky in Scorpio visible from North and South America, Western Europe and Africa. Also, that month will feature a Mercury Retrograde in Gemini/Taurus. These celestial markers, as well as those that follow, are the very energetic building blocks leading you to a new reality, one whose structure is unfolding moment by moment. We are the answers to our prayers. 

As we have discovered over the past two years, the fragile energetic web of society is intertwined and interdependent on levels heretofore unrecognized or fully understood. At this New Moon window I encourage you to examine your current life course and choices, making adjustments in alignment with your deepest desires. The introspection questions above will be a helpful aid in that respect.

I welcome comments below. 

Perfect time to explore your natal chart or better understand current energetic influences in your life? Sign up today for a Life Path Astrology Consultation appointment. Expanded awareness creates power , intention and direction.

Blessings and Sat Nam

Starman, Joseph Mina
April 1, 2022
Stellenbosch, South Africa 

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