Breathe deeply and allow this Full Moon to wash over you. In our astrological charts the moon represents the mother and where we feel most comfortable emotionally. What feels like home to you and how do you turn a house into a home? Take a moment to contemplate what this means for you. If you know what sign your moon is in then add that knowing to the mix as well. If you need help finding the moon in your birth chart then check out my Moon Charts here.
I happen to have a double Aquarius Moon (ie. my Moon is in the sign of Aquarius in the 11th house, the Aquarius house). I feel at home in groups and with friends and I'm also just fine being by myself doing 'so called' odd or unusual things such as what I'm doing here on this blog! I love meditating in groups --- the energy feels more intense and awesome. I love learning in groups especially when the teacher thinks creatively or better yet CHANNELS the class material on the spot which is something I like to do for my classes; that way each class is unique and hopefully transformational.
Full Moon in Leo Oracle Card:Caava Kicks Butt
Time to sink, sink, sink into your subconscious. It's Mercury Retrograde right now so it's not time yet to move forward (wait until Feb. 11 or better yet wait until the Mercury shadow period is over and we're entering the Spring Equinox on March 20.)
This moon is gonna be a deeply felt and intensely emotional moon so be kind to yourself now. Take time to connect and reach out to extended family or friends you haven't spoken to for a while; perhaps contact a medium to connect with an ancestor who has passed over or put in a dream request to 'see' them again. It's time now to ask for guidance and healing from friends, your guides or the Divine.
This Full Moon is also very close to the holy day of Imbolc (Candlemas) which marks the half way point between the Winter Solstice and the Spring Equinox on the Wheel of the Year. This usually occurs around Feb. 2, but this year it technically falls on Feb. 4. Traditionally this is a time of initiation, a time of quickening and a time when farmer's ewe's (sheep) began to lactate (the Gaelic word for ewe's milk is "oimelc"). Imagine taking that first long drink of fresh ewe's milk --- take the time to really savour it, then give your imagination free reign.
Lefty Oracle Card for the Immediate Future: Behold
Imagine yourself one year from now. What do you see? Jot down a few things.
I imagine all of us being in tune with ourselves more and more, just as we stay in tune with the New and Full Moons through these blog posts. Our intuition is stronger and we know what we need to be healthy, whole and holy. We love with all our hearts, we garden, we grow and we bake creatively. We do our part and we touch others on an energetic level. We also make time for rest and we find solace in our spirituality and in nature.
Leo Full Moon Altar suggestions from my Goddess Zodiac Playbook
Calling all Goddesses!I've got a Full Moon Shamanic Circle happening at the Rosewood Meetup, Oasis Community Center, 27906 Panorama Hills Dr, Menifee, California this Saturday, Jan. 31 from 1-2 pm. We'll be opening our hearts and initiating ourselves into the mysteries of the coming year. You can RSVP on my Meetup group.
Coming in 2015
Moon Circles & Classes
3rd Fridays New Moon Circle, 6:30-7:30 pm ~ Yoga For Life Temecula, CA
3rd Sundays New Moon Creativity Class, 1-4pm ~ Inspire San Diego Studio
5 Week Awaken Your Creative Soul Class, Mount San Jacinto College, Menifee Campus ~ Intro on Feb. 7 (Sat), 2015 from 10am-11pm and 4 week Class from February 28 – March 21 (Sat) from 10am-1pm
Creative Soul Readings In Person
Thursdays at Gypsy Luv, 844 E. Mission Blvd, Pomona
Feb. 6 Psychic Fair, 7-10pm, American Legion Hall, 814 W. Colton Ave, Redlands
Jan 27 - Artist & Musician Showcase at Crush & Brew - 7-9:30 pm
April 3 - Art Off The Walls, Truax Bldg., Temecula ~ I’ll be bringing my Moon Goddess art & cards
Find Kathy’s Art at These Shops
Chakra Shack * Laguna Beach
Karma Boutique * San Diego
Girl in the Curl * San Clemente
Mermaids * Carlsbad, San Clemente
The Cat House * Calgary
Moon Circles Meetup
Rsvp and connect with others of like mind in the Southern California area at Moon Circles Meetup
Where’s the Full Moon? Leo Full Moon ~ Feb. 3, 3:09 pm PST
ABOUT KATHY CRABBE Kathy Crabbe inspires soul-seekers to discover their innate gifts and talents through intuitive, creative expression in safe, relaxed and playful environments. She has been an artist forever and a Creative Soul Guide since awakening her own intuitive gifts at age forty. She channels New & Full Moon readings every month on her blog at kathycrabbe.com
As I sit in front of my altar for the upcoming New Moon in Aquarius on Jan. 20 with Goddess Freya and my mentor, Francesca De Grandis close by, I contemplate, I channel, I remember and I write.
I need this New Moon Time to re-connect with God/dess, to be with my community and to receive inspiration that I share with all of you.
I don't blog to share my woes, but instead to share glimpses of brilliance, of Faerie, of hope and magick.
Sapphire's Song (to be sung outside to the New Moon)
I am blessed O' Mother
to be here at Your birth
To sing Your name
O Goddess Divine Moon Mama
To sing wooohooo
To be silly AND strong
For Aquarius calls us
to be Trickster AND Divine
We ARE the bridge
to You to You to You.
Creative Soul Guidance and Oracle Card Pick: Now the real work begins
Relax into the flow. It is the time of the Water-bearer (New Moon in Aquarius) although Aquarius is actually an air sign; bringing water and air together which is also what's happening astrologically as Venus and Mercury conjoin in the sky. Love/emotions (water) and thought/communication (air) come together and the air is fragrant with it - what do you smell?
Stay on track with the loves of your life. Who and what are they? Give thanks. Let this love and the love of the Divine wash over you; melt into it; feel your body awash in love and blessings. Don't hold onto it - share it.
Then open your eyes and send that love out through your heart and back into the world and with an open heart and mind, set your intentions for the moonth ahead.
Also, be aware that Mercury Retrograde is coming up on Jan. 21 until Feb. 11 and plan accordingly. There may be delays, miscommunication and set backs so it's a good time to review and revise, not charge full steam ahead.
New Moon in Aquarius Altar (from my Zodiac Goddess Playbook)
Goddesses – Feng P’O P’O, Freya, Ix Chel, Nut, Tien-Mu
Calling all Goddesses! if you're in the Temecula, California area on Jan. 16 I've got a New Moon Circle happening at Yoga for Life...more info here.
Coming soon: Divine Feminine eClasses at the Wise Woman University plus New Moon Telecalls.
NEW! My Goddess Zodiac Playbook is now available as a full color hard copy in my Etsy Shop (previously it was only available as a pdf).
Valentine's Cards & Prints freshly added to my Etsy Shop: kitties/doggies/fairies!
Art Show Jan. 27 at Crush & Brew, Temecula, 7-9 pm - I'll be bringing my handpainted books plus goddess paintings and fairy/mermaid/cat/dog prints and cards.
Creative Soul Readings: In person readings are available every Thursday at Gypsy Luv in Pomona or online thru my website.
RAFFLE! Win a Three Month Astrological Timeline Report (12 page pdf), a Natal Chart Wheel pdf and a Goddess Zodiac Greeting Card of your choice along with a Creative Soul Bookmark (via snail mail) - learn more here. I will email the winner on the day of the New Moon.
About Kathy
Kathy Crabbe inspires soul-seekers to discover their innate gifts and talents through intuitive, creative expression in safe, relaxed and playful environments. She has been an artist forever and a Creative Soul Guide since awakening her own intuitive gifts at age forty. She channels New & Full Moon readings every month on her blog at kathycrabbe.com
How did you originally become interested in astrology?
I got caught up in the whole thing when I was about nineteen, mainly with just 'popular' sun sign astrology. It was around me for a while, leading up to my actual discovery of natal or horoscopic astrology. I had a friend who was vaguely interested in the subject, more so with Sun sign compatibility, she talked about it daily; she had "The Only Astrology Book You'll Ever Need" by Joanna Martine Woolfolk, and I remember being extremely drawn to it, but didn't know why, since I was actually rather skeptical of astrology. About a year later, I met someone who basically acted as a catalyst for my 'awakening', and he was the primary motivation that sent me on the path to studying astrology and the occult. I fell in love with him actually, or perhaps, so I thought, he was the first person I felt that way about, and it was through the pain of unrequited love that sent me into a sort of obsession of "figuring" out why, and then all that pain and obsession eventually led me to myself....and astrology was, and is, so crucial to that self discovery for me, and I am ever so grateful for it. I would say that my discovery of astrology was during one of the most difficult and unbalanced times of my life thus far, and it was literally the light that guided me from so much darkness and confusion. I was heavily indoctrinated into a nihilistic almost quasi-existential way of thinking, and I was dabbling a bit with conceptual physics like quantum mechanics and string theory.....and then all of a sudden, I met astrology, and it all just came together so nicely, all of my interests in science and philosophy suddenly came together. It all reminds me of something Carl Jung once said....."Pain and light and enlightenment come all at once", or something to that nature.
How can astrology help people?
Well, there is certainly no easy way to answer that, and I suppose it really depends on the person and how receptive they are to what astrology can reveal. Astrology can just about illuminate anything within the psyche, and by that I mean it can reveal, completely, an individual's life process, potential, and struggle. In its highest application, astrology can help bring awareness, and when it comes to a healing process, awareness is so absolutely crucial, and it makes things a lot easier to work with.....but then again that all depends on how open an individual is to having awareness of themselves. Unfortunately, in our culture, astrology is perceived as mere entertainment and is so far removed from healing, and because of that status so many are closed off to the 'idea' that astrology is a powerful healing tool, more so than any form of psychotherapy or mainstream counseling I've tried, and the awareness it provides is so beyond even other holistic modalities I've experimented with, it's really a complete system for providing awareness of one's self. With that said, however, I believe astrology is best used as a starting point or foundation for healing, because awareness in itself isn't enough, you have to do something about it. I went a long time having awareness of myself but that didn't particularly change anything, I had to get proactive with other modalities to work on those things astrology had shown me....but that's where the real power lies, because it can totally accelerate the healing process, it can get right to the point, to the bottom line and really save a lot of time. In another light, astrology can really alleviate stress and confusion, it can provide a perspective that reveals an intelligence to life and to nature itself, and that each of us is a part of that intelligence. Through the use of predictive techniques, such as transits, an awareness emerges where one can see that there's a time for certain things, that a difficult period in one's life has a beginning and an end, that it won't last forever, and that it doesn't necessarily need to be difficult at all. From this expanded perspective we see an inevitable unfolding within the entire universe, and astrology can help us align with that unfolding, that cosmic intention, so that our ego isn't in the way of it. I don't believe that we solely live for ourselves, and by that I don't mean that our lives aren't significant, because from our perspective it's obvious that's all there is, but our life is really apart of a much larger evolutionary agenda, and like the cells of a larger organism, our destiny serves the fulfillment of a greater cosmic, and even universal destiny. Above all else, astrology is helpful because it shows us that there's a division between who we think we are, and who we are really meant to be....it reveals all that imprinting and conditioning that's been thrown on us from our parents, religion, culture, society etc, and how we can actually transmute that conditioning into something that's truly powerful and functional for our lives and for others. I see each of us as a puzzle piece really, and we all fit in perfectly somewhere, it's just that we're all looking in the wrong spot, or we believe we're a different piece all together and so we go around trying to fit in where we, by nature, actually don't belong. If we can really understand our own piece of the puzzle, and become really aware of our special place, we can fit in and stop getting in the way, and hopefully if more people understand this- all of us will be able to see the picture on the puzzle much more clearly, and astrology is definitely a tool that can light the way.
Guest Astrologer, Chad Woodward
If you could be any combination of sun/moon/ascendant - what would it be?
Honestly I've never been into idealizing I was something else astrologically, I'm perfectly happy with my current combination.....Aquarius rising, Aries Moon, and Gemini Sun. It's a lot of hot air....but I think I make good use of it ;-) But I suppose, if I were to pick, I'd maybe have at least some more earth, like a Taurus moon, just to ground things out a bit.....but then again, I wouldn't be who I am now.
How do you see astrology benefiting society?
I see astrology as one of the most crucial tools for human survival, and ironically, it's the most suppressed and attacked of subjects around, by every school of thought imaginable. Religion hates it, science mocks it, philosophy can't figure it out, and others, even many "new agers" feel it's overtly mental/intellectual and takes us out of the moment. There was a time, in antiquity, where astrology was one of the highest regarded of sciences on the planet, every physician was essentially as astrologer-there was no division between metaphysics and "science". No decisions were made without first consulting the heavens, but often when I say that, people think it was a time where people didn't utilize free will, that they were these superstitious primitives who believed in silly things like the planets were literal"Gods" who cursed or blessed them according to their actions, but that's a complete misunderstanding spawned by our cultural and collective delusion and ignorance. Astrology reveals archetypal dynamics that exist higher dimensionally, and these dynamics are the very seeds for our collective belief systems, structures, institutions, and the entire reality before us....they shape, mold, and herd society in ways we could never imagine. Ironically our world is completely unconscious of this reality, that their thoughts and feelings do not always, if ever, originate within themselves, but are rather the by product, the wake, of a larger external force impulsing them from outside. If we as a society once again had that understanding, we wouldn't be so manipulated by our thoughts and feelings, we would be able to direct them and use them toward our own benefit. That's free will, complete consciousness in the moment of what's happening, and what's impulsing you. Free will begins with having awareness, because if your unconscious of something, it has power over you, and then you're really tantamount to a puppet on strings.....and sadly, that's our whole world currently, little puppets on strings being led along by larger puppets who, in their own delusion, believe their running the show.
Ascension-heart
What is the best way to begin the study of astrology?
I'll be perfectly honest, real authentic natal astrology is extremely inaccessible-but that shouldn't discourage anyone from studying it, but I say that because many don't know the difference between esoteric and exoteric astrology. Exoteric astrology is what you'll find at Barnes and Noble, not to say there aren't some possible gems here and there in mainstream bookstores, but they are extremely hard to find. Your best bet is to go to new age bookstores, or to used book stores in large cities, you'll likely find lots of unique and possibly out of print books. The problem with astrology is that, besides from its apparent 'popularity', which is supposedly increasing, the real meat of the subject people aren't interested in-or they truly would have no idea of its value or even its existence. Because of this a lot of the really good stuff doesn't circulate for very long, because there isn't a big enough market for it, so they go out of print and we're left with a lot of cookbook astrology that might be somewhat illuminating, but is mostly just entertainment and useless in terms of practical application. With that said, I would suggest just starting with the basics, learn the alphabet, the symbols, and how they all interconnect through ruler-ship. Once you have a firm grasp of the basics, you can begin to expand that into deeper realms, but it's definitely an art and a science, and something you need to truly love and stick with....like anything it takes practice and discipline, and most of the time people give up out of discouragement. I can't tell you how I learned astrology, I've never been formally taught, and all the resources just sort of fell into my lap, it all just came together so perfectly for me. When people ask me how I learned I tell them I just remembered it, because it came so fast and so easy for me, and I'm convinced I have utilized it extensively in lives previous to this one. That doesn't mean that you need to have been a court astrologer or a priest at Dendera in a past life to "get it", but out of complete honesty, it isn't something that a lot of people will "get" right away, because it's an entirely different way of thinking. It really helps to actually delve into stuff like mythology, and the study of symbolism, because that's really how you approach astrology, from a creative and 'mythical' state of mind. It's actually not about studying the symbols and learning what they mean in an academic way, but rather, what they embody, how they feel within the body, what their essence is in a multivalent sense. You can't approach astrology from a left brained approach, which we are all, in this culture, conditioned to be dominated by. You can learn it this way, and that's actually how I started, but you will not be able to successfully apply it to real life or to a real human being unless you have the other perspective. It is true, however, that the study of astrology can actually assist in bridging both hemispheres. In terms of resources I always recommend a beginner's book, such as Steven Forrest's The Inner Sky, which is very well written and approachable, or even something as basic as "The Only Astrology Book You'll Ever Need", by Joanna Martine Woolfolk, which the title may be a bit incorrect in its claim, but it really is a good start. Also there's tons of resources on the internet that a simple google search could easily unveil.
Are there any downsides to astrology?
Absolutely! There's a dark side to everything, and astrology is certainly no exception to that rule. I feel that in my study, I've definitely fallen prey to the darker realms of astrological application, in that it was an obsession for me in my early stages of learning. In it's lower vibration, astrology presents a lot of temptations, enticing the ego to control reality and, to a darker aspect, to the control of other people. One can easily get lost in trying to "figure it all out", in order to have control of their lives, and that's really a dysfunctional way of approaching astrology. It can become a highly intellectual and mental discipline, and when taken too far, has one worrying and dreading what a particular element in their horoscope might create for them. It can really take one "out of the moment", into a very mental plane where they are constantly looking to the future, to whats going to happen, instead of just using it in the moment to work to become synergistic with the energies as they currently are. It can also feed into a lot egocentric delusion, where one is so focused or convinced of a sense of higher destiny, which may or may not be true for them. The biggest downside to astrology actually comes from its practitioners, because it's kept so secret and inaccessible, there isn't a lot of proper training out there, there's a lot of practitioners who give very damaging information to their clients. I'll admit that I've done it myself, and I've never actually been formally trained. I would recommend avoiding any 'astrologer' that gives immanent predictions, or absolutes, such as "You'll never have children", or "You're going to get a divorce this year", such things, in my opinion, have no use and are in no way healing or of therapeutic value. I don't make concrete predictions using astrology, I have of course in the past, but it doesn't work for me, and I feel that it's very limiting. Any time someone makes a concrete prediction, they create a limitation for that person, and that idea or that belief is very powerful, and who is to say that the client doesn't go on to manifest that based on what they were told, into a sort of self fulfilled prophecy. Astrology is not about predicting the future, it's about perceiving an unfolding and aligning oneself with that unfolding to manifest the most positive and functional outcome. I also believe that astrology is definitely used for a darker agenda by many religious, political, and entertainment institutions for the use of social manipulation; it is very clear that many wars and so called 'natural' or man-made disasters occur very precisely timed astrologically toward the benefit of governments and elitists. You could say, of course, that perhaps it simply proves the validity of astrology, and that those events actually occurred in synchronization with the astrological event, which is true to an extent, but in looking at the evidence, certain events are just so beyond that, it is very clear that foreknowledge was used. There are many secret societies and similar groups that use it to herd the masses into particular directions and cultural shifts, and today that is a very real and powerful reality we are faced with, and sadly it is, I believe, the most common negative application of it. The details of this, and the evidence of it, is really not something I care to go into here, but I do talk openly about it, even if for some it sounds completely far fetched. Perhaps in the future, after I secure more solid research, I'll be able to write about it in more depth.
Which astrologer or astrologers have had the greatest influence upon you and why?
Well I've dabbled with just about every astrologer's work I could get my hands on, from Ptolemy to Rudhyar, but I would have to say that I'm very heavily influenced by the work of Barbara Hand Clow, Noel Tyl, Steven Forrest, and Jeffery Wolf Green and his school of Evolutionary Astrology. Quite a varied bunch, I'll admit, but they have actually been the most influential on my work thus far. Noel Tyl, though not a favorite to many I've come to find out, has created a very highly functional system of horoscope analysis, synthesis, and interpretation that can be readily applied to reality, and so much of his work is a foundation for how I approach a horoscope. Barbara Hand Clow is just amazing, I don't think there's anyone that can deny the value of what she's done, whether she did it all herself or not, I do not know, but it's highly insightful and useful in terms of acknowledging the deeper spiritual dimensions of astrology. Of course, her brother, Robert Hand, is just as influential, albeit perhaps, a bit more practical; his masterpiece, Planets In Transit, is like my bible. Barbara's work is so tantamount to gaining a broader perspective of how and why it all works the way it does, and even though it can be pretty far out, it actually makes astrology a lot more relatable in terms of giving it more meaning and tangibility through mythology. Jefferey Wolf Green's work is truly remarkable, and has deeply therapeutic implications. In fact, the mention of his name invokes a sense of depth for me, his work really woke me up to just how deep astrology can go within the psyche, and provides a look at the more karmic dimensions of personality, and how reincarnation plays such a crucial role in what we are currently experiencing in our lives. Most of all, I have to give a lot of credit to the unseen masters I've worked with, though I don't know their identity, or whether it's all the byproduct of claircognizance, much of the insight I've gained comes through spontaneous channeling and the amateur shamanism.
The-Diamond-Path
What astrological projects are you working on right now that you're particularly excited about?
At the moment I'm working on an article disseminating the deeper archetypal implications of Uranus, and it's connection to the current awakening and transition we are experiencing, linked deeply to an occult or esoteric agenda that's been going on for quite a while....if that makes any sense. Without giving too much away, I've been following a synchronistic chain of events that have been influencing me for a few years. In magikal circles, it would appear to be a sort of 'working' that I've been involved with, and much of it has been rather aggressive to get my attention. The article is pretty far out, but I'm hoping to put some more pieces together soon, because its implications, I feel, are highly significant for us to understand and acknowledge. I'm pretty excited about it, but it hasn't been an easy thing to channel, it's actually been quite a challenge for me, mentally as well as emotionally.
Which astrology books are your favorites and why?
Oh wow, that's a long list, but let's see......definitely Jeff Green's Pluto: The Evolutionary Journey of The Soul, part one and two....absolutely astounding masterpieces and so essential to transmuting deep emotional pain or blockages found in the horoscope. His books have served such a purpose in really getting to the bottom line of the horoscope using Pluto in synthesis with the Moon's nodal axis. Dane Rudhyar's, An Astrological Mandala, which is a deeply rich and remarkable take on Sabian symbols, which are so eerily accurate when used, they are pretty much an entire divination system in and of themselves. Barbara Hand Clow's Chiron: Rainbow Bridge to the Inner and Outer Planets, and The Liquid Light of Sex, are such useful and insightful works, such a blend of spiritual philosophy with very practical and down to earth implications. Noel Tyl's Synthesis and Counseling In Astrology, is such a masterpiece, I don't think there is anything that can compare in it's breadth and complexity, if anyone is considering serious and practical astrological counseling, that is definitely a must have. Then there's Jan Spiller's Astrology For The Soul, which is such a useful and valuable book for healing.....and when mixed with the insight of Jeff Green, it's just amazing what can be revealed in terms of blockages and opportunities for evolution; it brings the concept of reincarnation into a whole new light. Id also like to mention Richard Tarnas' Cosmos and Psyche, which has been hugely influential in motivating me more towards mundane astrology, the astrology of collective or political events. His work is truly amazing, and I actually recommend it to more intellectual types who are skeptical of astrology, because it's an excellent bridge to the more right brained or creative way of thinking and perceiving the world. His book is rather exhausting to go through, but it's extremely well researched and appeals to the more academic minded, who need lengthy bibliographies and footnotes before they would even consider reading something.
How would you like to see humanity utilizing astrology in the future?
Ideally, I'd like to see it used as a form of conscious stewardship, used with the utmost compassion and unconditional love to lead the masses toward higher evolution, and perhaps that's a bit far fetched of a reality for humanity at this time, but it's really, I feel, what astrology is meant to become. It reveals a map of unfolding, and if we could, collectively, use that map together to see where we are going, to see how we can best support that unfolding together, I believe we would literally create heaven on earth- a potential that truly exists deep in our DNA. Currently we live in a culture, in a society, that is so separated from nature and the natural rhythm of the cosmos, and the consequences of that we are now witnessing every day in the dysfunctions that plague our bodies, minds, and hearts. We are indeed a sick populace, but it doesn't have to be that way, and astrology is actually a huge step to taking us back to the garden, back to mother earth, to find solace and awe in her beauty and intelligence. Astrology is a giant step towards bridging us back to our potential, back to what we were designed to become, and it will truly save us from the materialistic and lifeless world that many find themselves enmeshed. When you utilize astrology, it reawakens that magic you knew as a child, that feeling of special destiny and purpose, and it's truly that magic our world needs now, to be like a child again, to play and be spontaneous, and to gaze with wonder at the magnificence of that great mystery that envelops us all.
Chad Woodward
What astrological gem of wisdom do you feel is most essential for us to know about right now?
Everything going on right now is urging us to let go, to break out of our shells, our mundane shells, and embrace life, embrace joy and bliss, and vigor. I know that to many, the world looks rather grim, and as if things are getting much 'worse' than ever before, but I see it as a sort of juxtaposition for the light that's waiting to burst within each of us. All the alignments that are happening right now are truly remarkable, I couldn't begin to describe their significance, but I urge everyone to get intimate with themselves, with their shadows, and with their potential....and really clear out what's holding you back. We are entering into a very different world, and the key to survival is high awareness, you need to be smart and you need to think for yourself to avoid being taken advantage of. I don't say that to scare people, but because we need to get conscious, or were going to drown in unconscious passivity. This is the divine moment that we've been waiting for, it's the most exciting time to be alive, and I really feel it's a blessing I've chosen to be here, no matter how difficult and challenging it is. I don't know if that answers the question, but that's what came up for me, haha.
Welcome to The Kosmic Mind Astrology Column written by Guest Astrologer Chad Woodward. *Join the Creative Soul Circle for the month of April and chat with Chad personally in my Special Guest Q & A Group (for full & crone moon members only).
Chad is an astrological researcher, massage therapist, healer, and artist PLUS a good friend of mine who I highly respect for his ongoing and unique explorations into the awesome potential of astrology and how it effects us on a microcosmic and macrocosmic level.
New Moon @ 13 degrees Aries 30'
April 03, 2011- 7:32 AM PDT
New Moon's Agenda: To gain an expanded awareness of one's self interests, and how one harmonizes or conflicts within relationship. To bring balance and harmony within the psyche through the equilibrium of one's inner male and female archetypes. To seek cooperation, compassion, and to resolve conflicts in a way that benefits both sides of the equation. The ritualistic dance of light and of dark. Win-Win. Functional Individuality within Relationship.
Beyond one's physical sex, each of us is a balance of both masculine and feminine qualities, the psyche contains the imprints of both. The most primal and mythological metaphor for the creation of this duality, in western culture, is the story of Adam and Eve, or Ish and Isha (as in the more original Herbrew version). On the surface, the story tells us that 'God' or Yahweh/Jehovah, first created man (Adam/Ish) from the dust of the earth, and then constructed his counterpart, woman (Eve/Isha), from Adam's dislocated rib. 'God'/Yahweh/Jehovah placed them into 'the garden', to tend to the land, and all was theirs to enjoy, except.....as we all know....the 'Tree of Knowing'. The fruit of this tree was strictly forbidden by this 'God', as its consumption would result in the 'knowledge' of good and evil. Of course Adam and Eve are never really told this outright, but rather that the consumption of the fruit would surely lead to their death....
"Of every tree of the orchard you shall;
but of the Tree of Knowing Good and Evil
thou shalt not eat of it;
for on the day that thou eatest thereof
thou shalt surely die."
Shortly after having been given this commandment, Eve/Isha encounters a mysterious serpent, who convinces her that the eating of the fruit will actually not lead to her demise....
And the Serpent....said unto the woman:
"Hath the Deity indeed said
'Ye shall not eat of the any tree of the orchard"?"
And the woman said unto the Serpent:
"Of the fruits of the trees of the orchard
eat we may;
it is of the fruit of the tree in the
midst of the orchard that the Deity hath said:
'Ye shall not eat of it, neither touch it,
lest ye die.' "
And the Serpent said unto the woman:
"Nay, ye will surely not die;
It is that the Deity doth know
that on the day ye eat thereof
your eyes will be opened
and ye will be as the Deity-
knowing good and evil."
And the woman saw that the tree was good to eat
And that it was lustful to behold;
And the tree was desirable to make one wise;
And she took of its fruit and did eat,
And gave also to her mate with her, and he ate.
and the eyes of both of them were opened,
And they knew that they were naked,
And made themselves loincloths.
We are told that from this knowledge, Adam/Ish and Eve/Isha were wrought by the revelation of their 'nakedness', and enveloped by shame, they quickly found clothing to conceal their genitals. The consensus interpretation of this myth is that it tells of the origin of man and woman, the origination of sin, and of man's 'shame' of being naked. Taking the myth literally, however, will certainly not lead to any deeper understanding, and the predominant Judeo-Christian interpretation was created to serve the agenda of the establishment, the priestly elite, and as a result, it mostly places an unconscious blame on woman for 'disobeying' the patriarchal deity's orders. From an occult or esoteric perspective, we see a much different story, a more profound statement about humanities' spiritual evolution. In the beginning we see Adam 'naming' all the animals and plants, and it is through this act, through the power of word, that he brings them into form. For we know that in the beginning, was the word, the logos, the cosmic OM. This reveals man's inherent ability to channel form into existence using the power of consciousness, and yet, man is in a state of pure receptivity to divine will. This means that, literally, man/Adam had no free will of his own, he is given the world to create and bring into form, divine intention, but he has no intention of his own. The duality of Adam and Eve, is equal to the duality of the mind itself, in its right (creative, receptive, intuitive, feminine) and left (logical, active, rational, masculine) hemispheres. Adam represents the masculine, the active principle of bringing the divine beings into formation and crystallization. It is interesting that Eve is the one who converses with the Serpent, for she is only able to 'see' him because of her intuitive nature, the feminine ability to see the "unseen" forms. The serpent is Lucifer/Prometheus, the cosmic trickster, who 'tempts' Eve/Isha to eat of the tree of knowing by explaining that her eyes will thus be opened, and she will be like the deity, knowing good and evil. There are actually two predominant trees in the Garden, 'The Tree of Knowing' and 'The Tree of Life', and we are also told that by eating of the 'Tree of Knowing', man will then eat of the "Tree of Life", and then be as the Gods. It is clear, also, that there are the presence of multiple Gods, as the deity often refers to 'others'....
Then did the Deity Yahweh say:
"Behold, the Adam has become as one of us,
to know good and evil.
And now might he not put forth his hand
And partake also of the Tree of Life,
and eat, and live forever?"
And the Deity Yahweh expelled the Adam
from the orchard of Eden.
This reveals that by partaking of the Tree of Knowing, Adam and Eve would be like the Gods, knowing good and evil, and now run the risk of having also the power of eternal life, and thus were banished from the Garden. This left humanity in a state of shame, and as an incomplete semi-divine being, man is now only 'like' the gods, but not yet one of them- he is destined to forever reach toward his divine and god-like potential.
By the eating of the apple, the partaking of the external forms, man fell into the illusion of duality, and thus realized not his "nakedness", but rather, his separateness from the divine. Prior to the "fall" man was one with the external forms, there was no separation, much like an infant child, all is enmeshed into oneness. The knowledge of good and evil, led to the realization of the illusion of their isolation within the body, the physical vessel, which separates and confines spirit into matter. This is symbolized as the 'shame' of their sexual organs, and the covering of their bodies. It is also evident that the word knowing, often referred to the act of sexual procreation, to 'know' was to have to sex.
"Throughout the Old Testament, the term "to know" is used to denote sexual intercourse, mostly between a man and his spouse for the purpose of having children. The tale of Adam and Eve in the Garden of Eden is the story of a crucial step in Man's development: the acquisition of the ability to procreate. "
-Zecharia Sitchin, The Twelfth Planet, pg. 368
Consuming of the 'flesh' of matter, whether through the ingestion of food, or through the act of sexual penetration, appears to be the root of the tale. There truly is no single blanket interpretation to apply to the myth, however, or with any myth for that matter, and its meaning is inherently multivalent. The serpent, Lucifer/Prometheus, is an unconscious symbol awaiting activation deep within the human psyche. The serpent climbing a rod, or in this case, a tree, is an ancient esoteric symbol known as the caduceus, symbolic of the sexual kundalini energy that lies dormant in man's root chakra.
The serpent, also a symbol of spirit penetrating into matter, simply awakened Adam and Eve out of passive oneness and into active individuation, which results in the perception of separation. The sexual act itself, is thus a metaphor for man's desire to reunite with the divine, a sort of compensation, for our separation from 'God'.
The myth set in motion, the desire for sexual intercourse in humanity, forever seeking to reunite with the state as passive co-creator with the divine, within the confines and safety of the cosmic womb (The Garden). The intertwining serpent symbolism is also uncannily similar to the double helix of DNA, and one could also say that, perhaps, Lucifer/Prometheus was essentially Eve's own DNA communicating with her, revealing her 'hidden' abilities the deity Yahweh clearly did not wish her to 'know'.
From that point onward, humanity has set in motion, the pattern to 'know' the external forms, as well as the internal forms: the totality of the self, the endless penetration of form and void. It explains the origination of individuality, separate from the divine, not the root of all 'evil' and 'sin'. It describes the beginning of a crucial evolutionary step, one that we are now, as a collective, reaching the crux of: the apex of individuality.....
"Adam and Eve accepted the Presence, not of the Tempter, but of the individualizer, who sought to have them both out of the womb of unconscious passivity to Nature's God. But the result of the experience frightened them. They "hid"; they failed in the great test of individualization, and in this sense the archetype of that failure is deeply embedded in man's generic unconscious. It is repeated time after time."
-Dane Rudhyar, An Astrological Mandala, pg. 60
As we set our intentions for this new moon, our attention is drawn to this ancient and mythic story; a transition is occurring collectively where dichotomy must be bridged and reconciled. As a direct result of this need for resolution, comes the amplification of polarity, which results in the illusion of war, of light versus dark, of good versus evil. The emptiness the world feels deep inside, is becoming much greater than ever before, and this is increasing our collective tension, as well as our own individual dichotomy. The path to reconciliation is not through resistance, but rather, through the acceptance of relationship, which inherently threatens the ego with complete annihilation of self importance. In the myth, it is clear that Adam was indeed the progenitor of Eve, as she was constructed from his rib. It is through such symbolism that we discover that Eve is really a piece of Adam, that relationship is a reflection of oneself. Adam was the reflection of the divine beings who created him, and Eve, the reflection of the creation. The conscious acceptance of relationship implies that one take full responsibility for what is directly reflected back, full acceptance that the image is only what one has essentially created themselves. When we perceive our problems, personally or collectively, as some external force from which we are a victim, we only amplify its potential to destroy us.
The energy that is now being cultivated provides us the opportunity to bring full balance, full equilibrium, within the psyche by the balance of our inner Adam and Eve. These two seemingly opposite archetypes, are nonetheless, the reflection of each other, and the mind is incomplete without them in union. This requires the recognition that one is not solely male or female, but rather, a balance of both. Humanity has spent the past few thousand years reaching only for the potential of individuality, yet its foundation was unstable, and thus the result, incomplete. The serpent has returned, but not to separate humanity once more, but rather, to complete the process, to complete the journey to full individualization, and thus afford the opportunity for mankind to return to the garden in the end. This requires that one dissolve the false individuality from which our dysfunctional society imposes upon us (our unconscious passivity to society and government), and to search within to find the authentic individual sent from the divine. The Tree of Knowing must be balanced with the fruit of The Tree of Life. Knowledge must be tempered by direct experience of the divine, which lies within each of us.
On a more personal level, this energy could manifest in tension in our relationships, to ourselves and to others. Are your self interests imposing on the self interests of others, or do you allow others to impose their interests upon you? The dilemma that is presented to us, is how do we implement our vision, our self interest or agenda for creation, with the agenda of others, how do we fully participate in conscious relationship with others while maintaining individuality? It is clear that, from an evolutionary perspective, humanity is not yet ready for complete annihilation of self, but rather the full maturation of self, and of self potential. This New Moon ignites a frightening and yet simultaneously exciting prospect: the search for true authentic and functional individuality, while having the awareness of relationship to others. It seems the world is now reaching a point where it must merge with its opposite, or else it will perish in the wake of its own resistance. As Rudyhar states in the above quotation:
"They "hid"; they failed in the great test of individualization, and in this sense the archetype of that failure is deeply embedded in man's generic unconscious. It is repeated time after time."
This means that we are destined to re-experience this myth, over and over again, until its potential is complete. In looking at the state of the world, humanity has once more slipped into a state of passive unconsciousness to a "greater" will, and now we must be reawakened back into active participation and individuation. We must not, however, flee from the scene, hide in fear of punishment, but rather, take full responsibility for our decision, essentially, full awareness and ownership of our power. This New Moon is urging each of us to wake up, wake up to the world, and to where we are unconscious in our own lives. This critical turning point allows us to fully embrace our potential, to step back into the garden and claim what's rightfully ours.
Mercury Retrograde In Aries
March 30-April 23, 2011
This New Moon occurs at the onset of a fiery Mercury retrograde cycle, beginning on March 30th and ending on April 23, 2011. Interestingly, it seems its effects have actually set in much earlier than usual, coinciding with Mercury's conjunction with Jupiter on March 13th. This energy is further magnified by the presence of Jupiter in close conjunction with the New Moon in Aries, bringing with it an expansive burst of assertiveness, aggression, action, and initiation within the collective field. We can thus expect this highly energetic surge of power to set in again when mercury passes by Jupiter twice more during the retrograde cycle: around the dates of April 11 and May 11, 2011. Whatever material was presented to you around March 13th, is likely to reach some kind of culmination or conclusion around these times, as well as during the entire retrograde process. Mercury Retrograde can often be annoying for some, and it is common to experience this, but do not lose sight of its deeper meaning.
Mercury retrograde is a natural revision time, a time where we look back and reconsider things from a different perspective. With the symbolism of Aries, and Jupiter, it seems this is providing us an expanded perception of ourselves, our self interests, and our true agendas, collectively and personally. This is a time to have your mind wide open to incoming feedback and messages, as they will have a profound effect on your consciousness. Now is not the time for defensiveness and resistance, but rather, to utilize a receptive and open demeanor, willing to listen and absorb. This is the perfect time to reconsider your current direction, where you are headed, and what possible stumbling blocks you may encounter. Hold back from making immediate or impulsive decisions, now is the time to consider various options, but not so much for initiating action. New beginnings are indeed on the horizon, and in the air, and Mercury's retrograde is providing us the opportunity to consider which paths to take. Reconsider how you take action, how you present yourself, and whether you are balancing between shared and personal interests. This is a huge wake-up call to the entire world, and we are each going to have the opportunity to fully revise our perception of what's real and what's not. If we are to begin new projects or agendas collectively, are they truly our own, and do they support the interests of everyone involved? Take a few steps back during this cycle, and get clear about yourself and your personal agenda. You'll be glad you did. Who's agenda are we creating in the world? How do we temper it with our own vision? These questions are truly not so simple to answer, but I feel it is highly relevant that we ask them, and see what comes up. If we don't like the agenda that is being created, we must first take responsibility for it, as it is a reflection of our unconscious passivity, our lack of creating a conscious agenda. Then we must find ways to implement our own vision, not by the rejection of the current agenda, but of our acceptance of our relationship and responsibility towards it, and then find ways to compromise. Our goal is to seek conscious evolution, not unconscious revolution, which often leaves only blood in the streets, and an entertaining chapter in HIStory books.
Love & Light to all on their personal journey.....
Ever since I was young I found myself fascinated and mesmerized by the night sky, gazing up at its brilliance and immensity in awe. Somehow, this innate part of myself was looking for omens in that very sky, completely unaware of the vivid and profound art known as astrology, which has graced this planet for thousands of years. It wasn’t until I was 19 that I discovered the real horoscopic astrology that, from that point forward, would change and shape my life in ways I would have never imagined. It was truly love at first sight, a love that has only increased in its intensity ever since. Life with astrology is truly an adventure, as it unveils the magic of destiny, which has been sadly lost to our world for far too long.
My goal, as the late Joseph Campbell so eloquently stated, is to simply follow my bliss. Astrology is a guide to the unfolding of self and of the cosmos itself. It is in the proper application of this guide, that we as humans, can learn to no longer be an obstacle to the brilliance and intelligence of this cosmic unfolding. Currently, I am simply a researcher, massage therapist, healer, and artist doing my part in the ascension of the planet. I hope to share the joy and bliss that astrology can provide, as we learn to dance and flow in synchronicity with this great and mysterious divine plan.
*Join the Creative Soul Circle for the month of April and chat with Chad personally in my Special Guest Q & A Group*
Welcome to The Kosmic Mind Astrology Column written by Guest Astrologer Chad Woodward. Chad is an astrological researcher, massage therapist, healer, and artist PLUS a good friend of mine who I highly respect for his ongoing and unique explorations into the awesome potential of astrology and how it effects us on a microcosmic and macrocosmic level.
New Moon In Pisces
March 04, 2011 @ 12:47:02 PM PST
13 degrees Pisces 56'
"The path to clarity is through the assimilation of complexity."
New Moon's Agenda: To strengthen one's immunity and to shield oneself, physically, emotionally, psychically, or spiritually. To gain deeper clarity within the psyche, removing any distortions inhibiting clear and direct intentions. To surrender attachment to our shadow, or our blockages, and to gain more awareness of our stumbling blocks so that we can embrace, love, and transmute them into powerful gifts for the world. To dig past superficiality to the real and authentic truth within.
As we set our intentions this new moon, CLARITY and AWARENESS, are of utmost importance. What do YOU want to create in your life? What kind of world do YOU want to see surrounding you? Setting intentions can be a powerful experience, especially when you're in synch with the cosmos. This new moon, if you don't already, try sitting down with yourself in a calm and relaxing space, free of distractions, and experiment writing out your intentions in a very clear and concise way. As you write them, visualize each intention and feel it in your heart center, feel the joy and bliss of manifesting your intention as if it is happening at that moment, right before your eyes. Get creative with it, use colored pens or pencils, or even draw pictures or make a collage, allow the experience to be fun- but remain conscious and focused-maintain a state of balance between ecstatic enthusiasm and pensiveness. When you're finished go over the list once more, visualize all the things you wrote down, feel them in your heart center, and as you read them, imagine them being sent directly to the moon, allow her to receive them and then thank her. Give thanks for all the blessings in your life, and take some time to imagine all that you're truly grateful for. Then put it away! You could fold it up and place it on an alter, you could burn it in your own ceremony, or you could put it under your pillow and forget all about it. Within two weeks, at the proceeding full moon, take a look at what has manifested, or not. Some intentions take several lunar cycles to manifest, some don't-it all comes down to what you THINK is possible. The more you practice at each new moon, the easier and the more powerful it will be. And just remember, how can the universe give you what you want if you don't ask for it? How can we create a new life, or even a new world, if we aren't clear about what we want it to look like?
It's very easy to find what's wrong with the world, and to realize what we don't want-the media bombards us with THAT every day. At this point, in the western world a least, we are all well aware of all the problems and dysfunctions that plague our reality- but the challenge comes in what to do about it, how to turn awareness into applicable solutions. We hear a lot about the current 'shift' in consciousness amplifying co-creation; the ability to gather with like minds and manifest together. One has to wonder however, is this 'co-creation' really something new? Haven't we been co-creating all along? The truth is that we have, but unfortunately, we've been creating a reality that's pre-made, handed to us by someone else, neatly packaged and sold to all who are convinced it's the cream of the crop. The 'awakening' the world is now experiencing is simply the awareness of this reality, the acceptance and realization that we've been duped. By who you may wonder? Well, that's a rather long story, one long and esoteric story which is well beyond the scope of this article- but the truth is, in the end, we've only fooled ourselves, and if we really want to point the blame we have to only look in the mirror. The 'powers that be', if you want to get Jungian about it, are simply projections of our own unconscious wounds, that part of ourselves we refuse to accept as us. All the demons that fill our dreamscape, all the terrorists, bankers, globalists, or bloodthirsty inter-dimensional reptilian extraterrestrials[1], we've created, collectively, because we've chosen fear over love. Humanity is at a threshold, we are now ready to fully understand love, and not just in the highly limited way we experience it in this dimension, but in the sense of Agape, which is cosmic love, the love pouring down through the higher dimensional spheres espoused by the more evolved echelons of consciousness. The love we experience, it is said, is merely the tail end of an experience so profound and so immense, no words could possibly describe it. How good does that sound? Sounds good to me, and I don't know about you, but I'm tired of creating the same thing-I'm ready to do something else, and I have a feeling you probably are to. The great news is that we aren't alone in this, the universe is on OUR side, we just have to make the choice, and it starts with YOU! It starts with getting clear, getting clear about yourself and your intentions. Who are you? What do YOU want? It's not about what everyone else wants, you know all about that, it's about what you want, what you REALLY want! Have I made my point yet? This new moon has the potential to be very revealing, possibly showing us what we don't want to see, but I suggest you look at it no matter what. Don't judge it, and don't run from it, just allow it to be, allow yourself to accept it, and then let it go! Whatever comes up for you at this time needs to be cleared, it needs you to let it go so it can be free and continue its OWN journey as well.
At the time of the new moon there will be a powerful cluster, or stellium, of planets in Pisces, and some teetering on the edge. This 'teetering' occurs when a planet is coming to the end of a sign, to the last degrees which are also called anaretic degrees. Neptune will be at 28 degrees of Aquarius, just at the cusp of Pisces, and Uranus will be at the 29th degree of Pisces just at the cusp of Aries. The anaretic degrees have a powerful effect, especially when outer planets converge there by transit. This indicates that powerful breakthroughs in consciousness are about to take place, something is about to explode! On March 11 Uranus will enter Aries, where it will stay until 2019! This event in itself is very significant, as it signals the beginning of an entirely new cycle of Uranus through the zodiac, it signals the rebirth of the Promethean principle within consciousness-and a powerful renaissance is possible! This will be proceeded by a complete revolution technologically as well as socially, our world is bound to change very quickly! Aries symbolizes the power of the individual, and so the 'technology' and secrets of the gods, the powers of the higher beings, are to be handed down to the common man for all to share. This threshold symbolizes that no longer will such power be hidden (in Pisces) but will be revealed to all who are ready to receive it. Further amplifying this omen is Uranus' seven squares to Pluto in Capricorn which will take place from 2012 to 2015, which will once again flood the collective psyche with the archetypes created during the Uranus/Pluto conjunction of the late 1960's.
Neptune, the ruler of this new moon, sits in conjunction to Chiron, forming the 'rainbow bridge'[2], which is an active portal that has been cracked open by the Super Full Moon in Leo that occurred on February 18th. This conjunction sits in direct opposition to the mysterious, allusive, and 'hypothetical' planet Transpluto [3] which currently sits at the 29th degree of Leo. This powerful, and yet, ambiguous energy, with the influence of Neptune, and the nature of a hypothetical planetary body, shows us that unseen forces are currently flooding our reality. The lines between what's "real" and what's not are beginning to blur, the world is going to become a very strange but interesting place to be. The opposition itself is urging each of us to see past illusions, deceptions, and distortions that have hindered our free will, severely limiting our range of awareness and thus our range of action. It is now time for all of us to get clear about what we've been 'programmed' to create, and to replace it with creating what comes directly from our heart centers as opposed to our minds. This is not a matter of sitting down and thinking about what you want, but rather FEELING it, reaching down deep and finding that volcano of joy, bliss, and curiosity many have only known as children. We are each being given the opportunity for more self-sufficiency, we are being freed from our shackles-so lets embrace the opportunity and step into our power together.
Jupiter and Pluto are currently squaring off in the heavens as well, amplifying expansion, enthusiasm, and deep philosophical or metaphysical thought-and on the flip side, expanding the darker dimensions of our psyches, our shadows, our wounds, and our unloved aspects, all reaching out for our acknowledgment and love. This energy is something to be conscious of, because if not you could get carried away with it. On one end you may find yourself filled with much excitement and enthusiasm over a new idea, or a new opportunity, something that seems almost too good to be true. The reality of the situation will vary for each of us, but the point here is to remain calm and just allow yourself to enjoy all the ideas and speculation, but it would be wise to consider it carefully before jumping on board right away. This is definitely a time for awareness and for creating visions, but immediate action is a different story. If you feel pressured to do something, don't give in right away, just let it be-odds are it will unfold without much need for immediate effort on your part either way. On the other side, this powerful energy has the potential to really let us dig deep, to get right to the bottom line, so follow the white rabbit wherever he may lead you now.
On March 3, the day before the new Moon, the Lunar Nodes switch from Cancer/Capricorn to Gemini/Sagittarius until August of 2012. This creates a subtle, yet powerful shift in our collective direction, urging us to let go of overt rationalization, to stop dwelling on complexities and petty facts, and get straight to the point. This powerful shift will impulse each of us to go deeper within ourselves, to listen to our inner guidance, and to rely less on detailed information given to us from external sources. This is a time to gain a greater perspective of what's going on, to see the bigger picture, and to reach out towards foreign avenues of life experience. Jupiter, ruler of Sagittarius, ties in the square to Pluto in Capricorn with the nodal symbolism, directing our attention to this powerful aspect. In synthesis, these connections indicate that if we feel pressured in a certain direction by some external force (Pluto in Capricorn), we are merely being impelled so that we try an entirely new and different, or innovative, direction-to take our own path by following inner guidance and vision. This is what it is all about! Instead of sitting in front of the television, numbing out from the limiting repetition of refurbished OLD ideas and visions-get your OWN vision! The world is NOT running out of 'good' ideas, we've just been looking in the completely wrong places for FAR too long. If it isn't apparent to you yet, the system isn't going to give us anything new, it's simply going to superficially enhance stale and prosaic templates. And so, the best choice is to simply laugh at it all, and then look into another direction, there are infinite paths for us to choose from! We just haven't been 'told' about them by our TELL-A-VISION. Allow something fresh and new to enter your reality at this time, be open to change, and above all else, don't resist the flow.
Our lives are filled with shifts and transitions, in fact, every moment is a shift from the proceeding one. Nature provides us with the experience of a seamless flow from one experience to the next, but in reality, we are constantly being prepared in the moment for what's to come. We experience this often as intuition, or psychic vision, but we're really just picking up nature's next intention-the next shift is preparing us in the moment. If only we could listen carefully to the subtleties of our own bodies and minds, and just go with the flow, as opposed to resisting these transitions with our own ideas of how things should turn out, or what the next step will look like. Every new experience necessitates that we have fully integrated and processed the previous one, so that stagnate energies can be transmuted into functional and applicable constructs. These 'stagnate' energies, or unused, or 'unloved' constructs bide for our attention, and we perceive them as our shadow-our blind spots-which are quite simply programs within the psyche we have yet to shed the light of consciousness upon, and so they run unconsciously outside of normal awareness. These unconscious programs constantly seek our acknowledgment of them-and so they do whatever is possible to get our attention.
From the perspective of our collective mythic narrative we call 'the ascension', humanity is at the brink of a dimensional shift. This is a shift out of density, out of a lower vibrational dimension and into a higher and more finely tuned dimension. Our world is being flooded with higher dimensional light, and this light is exposing the darker elements, the shadow material that has been left over from our previous state. This shadow material must be integrated until we can fully step into the next experience, and so as more and more light penetrates the darkness and density, the more seemingly 'negative' or 'darker' elements we are bound to confront. Each of us individually must process our own shadow material, and humanity as a whole must process its collective shadow which each of us creates together. From the astrological perspective, we are in the midst of this clearing-the amplification of our shadow-which appears to be a completely autonomous entity separate from us, but only because we have refused to love it and accept it. To gain more clarity, we must first address that which we are unconscious of-otherwise these blind spots will seek to trip us up whenever there is a chance. In truth, the more unconscious we are, the less free will we have. It is said, rather esoterically, that free will only exists through the use of 'magic' and 'divination'. Magic is simply the art of directed and focused intention, and you don't need the help of Mr. Crowley for that one. Divination literally means "to be inspired by god", and inspire is simply to "light within", or to bring the light of god within oneself. I would personally translate that as simply to shed light on something that was previously hidden, our shadow! So divination need not be an elaborate system such as astrology or even tarot, it is simply the ability to shed light on what is hidden, to bring consciousness to something that is unconscious. Of course we have tools such as astrology to expedite this process, but there are many paths to divination-years of study and practice are not required.
If humanity is to have true free will it must first acknowledge its shadow, it must first shed light on all the darkness, all the programs that seemingly control us. It must then direct its own intentions, focus on its own visions and then create them! The universe is now assisting us in gaining clarity, seeing through the darkness with razor sharp vision so that we can shed light on all that was previously hidden. We must not judge the darkness, and we must not deny that darkness as us, for we must learn to love and embrace it, in all its truth and authenticity. It can often be difficult to see our shadow, since it's always behind us, and our best mirrors are often our relationships. The people in our lives reflect our shadow quite often, and so at this time keep your awareness keen, and be open and receptive to the signals coming from others-they are your greatest teachers.
Full Moon In Virgo
This new moon will culminate in the last of six anaretic full moons on March 19, the closing of one cycle I previously outlined in my article Cracking The Cosmic Egg: Lunar Eclipse Synchronicity and the Crisis In Consciousness. When one cycle closes, however, another one is just beginning. This full moon will be the second of 6 super full moons, when the moon is closest to earth, amplifying it's influence exponentially-heightening our subtle perceptions and magnifying the earth's energetic influence. Interestingly, on March 8, the 'Universal Underworld' begins, the final stage of the mayan calendar before its end date in either the fall of this year or winter solstice of 2012 [4]. These are intriguing synchroncities indeed-alerting us to a powerful shift occurring within the collective experience. Of further interest is the Full Moon's occurrence on the day before Spring Equinox, with the Sun conjunct Uranus sitting directly on the Aries Point! The Aries Point is one of the most powerful and significant placements in astrology, as it is the very beginning of the zodiac, the divine spark of consciousness, the flame driving the psyche to deeper and more expanded awareness and evolution. This is quite a revolutionary energy, bringing with the omen of a new dawn, a new horizon from which a grand new vision for the world can be created. The most revealing and intriguing aspect of all, are the sabian symbols for the positions of the sun and moon.
For the Sun at 29 degrees of Pisces:
Light breaking into many colors as it passes through a prism.
For the Moon at 29 degrees of Virgo:
A seeker after occult knowledge is reading an ancient scroll which illumines his mind.
The symbols are extremely revealing, and seemingly work together through polarity. The Sun, at the Aries point, conjunct Uranus, is receiving the 'fire' from Prometheus (Uranus), the flame, as symbolized as light, which is disseminating into its many and multivalent manifestations. This light is then literally reflected off the Moon, and illuminating the minds of all who seek the 'occult' or hidden knowledge within. These beautiful symbols further confirm that light is penetrating our dimension, and it is exposing all the shadows and unconscious constructs lying just beneath the surface. To quote once more, as I did in a previous article, Dane Rudhyar's interpretation of this full moon's symbol, excerpted from his infamous book, An Astrological Mandala: The Cycle of Transformations and its 360 Symbolic Phases.
KEYNOTE: After a crisis one should seek to realign the renewed consciousness with the primordial Revelations of the Truth of Man.
Any revolutionary movement, once it has succeeded in overcoming the inertia of the past and in toppling obsolete structures, needs to tap the most essential realities of what Man represents and signifies in the universal Order; or else it merely reembodies in a superficially altered manner the very things it has destroyed. This is the crucial moment. In occultism the "Pattern of Man" is an archetypal Power that may be contacted. It must be sought with undeviating determination. After each revolutionary crisis this Pattern and this Power can be contacted-always the same, yet at each new cycle perceivable in a different light.
This fourth stage symbol presents us with the technique required to "reach the other shore". But each individual, and each group or racial unit, must come in its own way to the ROOT KNOWLEDGE which provides the only safe foundation for a rebirth.
Stay tuned for my next article which will disseminate the energies of the Spring Equinox shortly. I end with a clip from 2010: The Year We Make Contact, the sequel to 2001: A Space Odyssey, which is a pertinent modern mythos for us at this time, as well as the years chosen for the titles being prophetic and uncannily significant for U.S. history. Movies are our collective dreams, and our modern mythologies, and they deeply reflect the under currents of our collective psyche.
Notes & References
[1] See, Infinite Love Is The Only Truth And Everything Else Is Illusion by David Icke.
[2] The Rainbow Bridge is an esoteric symbol dealing with the bridging of the physical body with the higher dimensional bodies, or the full activation of one's spiritual potential. In a more literal way, according to our current mythic narrative, the rainbow bridge mythos tells of a bridge linking the astral dimension through the Sun which is a portal to the Sirius star system. It is said that the astral dimension, which is created by the orbit of the Moon, holds discarnate souls on earth who have yet to "cross over". Currently there are many souls who are stuck or trapped due their attachment to density. As the earth matrix begins vibrating at a higher frequency, due to the ascension process, these souls who hold too much density cannot stay in the earth's collective field during the next several thousand years. It is believed that this bridge, the rainbow bridge, will assist these souls in relocating to another star system, possibly the 'binary' (possibly trinary) star system of Sirius.
[3] For further reading on Transpluto I highly suggest the article by astrologer Lynn Koiner titled, Transpluto Is Real! which can be found here: http://www.lynnkoiner.com/astrology-articles/transpluto-is-real
[4] For further study on the Mayan calendar I highly suggest Carl Johan Calleman's website, http://www.calleman.com
Images
Image 1: The Diamond Path by Rob Shouten
Image 2: Despair by Alex Grey
Ever since I was young I found myself fascinated and mesmerized by the night sky, gazing up at its brilliance and immensity in awe. Somehow, this innate part of myself was looking for omens in that very sky, completely unaware of the vivid and profound art known as astrology, which has graced this planet for thousands of years. It wasn’t until I was 19 that I discovered the real horoscopic astrology that, from that point forward, would change and shape my life in ways I would have never imagined. It was truly love at first sight, a love that has only increased in its intensity ever since. Life with astrology is truly an adventure, as it unveils the magic of destiny, which has been sadly lost to our world for far too long.
My goal, as the late Joseph Campbell so eloquently stated, is to simply follow my bliss. Astrology is a guide to the unfolding of self and of the cosmos itself. It is in the proper application of this guide, that we as humans, can learn to no longer be an obstacle to the brilliance and intelligence of this cosmic unfolding. Currently, I am simply a researcher, massage therapist, healer, and artist doing my part in the ascension of the planet. I hope to share the joy and bliss that astrology can provide, as we learn to dance and flow in synchronicity with this great and mysterious divine plan.
Breathe deeply and allow this Full Moon to wash over you. In our astrological charts the moon represents the mother and where we feel most comfortable emotionally. What feels like home to you and how do you turn a house into a home? Take a moment to contemplate what this means for you. If you know what sign your moon is in then add that knowing to the mix as well. If you need help finding the moon in your birth chart then check out my Moon Charts here.
Calling all Goddesses! I've got a Full Moon Shamanic Circle happening at the Rosewood Meetup, Oasis Community Center, 27906 Panorama Hills Dr, Menifee, California this Saturday, Jan. 31 from 1-2 pm. We'll be opening our hearts and initiating ourselves into the mysteries of the coming year. You can RSVP on my Meetup group.
Links
Zodiac Goddess Playbook
Soul Readings
Kathy's Art
As I sit in front of my altar for the upcoming New Moon in Aquarius on Jan. 20 with Goddess Freya and my mentor, Francesca De Grandis close by, I contemplate, I channel, I remember and I write.
Sapphire's Song (to be sung outside to the New Moon)
