SovHarmonyAstro Blog

What is Astrology? - How Does Astrology Work? - Dispelling the Myths

2012-01-16T21:36:00.000-08:00

Astrology History

Astrology is a tool for both discovering our truth as well as for aligning with our truth...a condition known as ‘verdiance’. Astrology is the study of the correlation between theconfiguration & movements of astronomicalbodies (i.e. planets, asteroids, moon etc.) and the individual & collective conditions andexperiences of life on Earth. This ancient art of divination has a richhistory and continues to have relevance today. In fact, influential thinkers likePythagoras, Galileo, and Copernicus were all users of this ancient wisdom.

Astronomyand astrology were not even separate disciplines until recently. For centuries,astrology was taught in the highestinstitutions and was considered one of the coresciences with numerous applications. For example, though Nostradamus becamewidely known as a psychic seer long after his death, he was actually anAstrologer who used the practice mostly for medical purposes. During his life,he was widely sought for his unique insight and ability to accurately diagnose andtreat his patients using astrology, and not for his allegedly prophetic quatrains.

In the late 17^th-century, the dominance of theRoman Catholic Church and the findings of scientists like Sir Isaac Newton (also an astronomer/astrologer) andCopernicus helped to eject astrology out of the major institutions. With Newton’sdiscoveries about cause and effect relationships in the physical world andCopernicus’ finding that the Earth revolved around the Sun, the Catholic Churchsaw an opportunity to discredit astrology despite its track record and provenmerits. With astrology, it had long been the assumption that to practice it was to believe that the astralbodies caused certain personalities inpeople and certain events on Earth. Itwas also assumed that the Earth would have to be the center of the universe forastrology to have any validity.

Newton’sdiscoveries regarding cause and effect relationships showed that otherearthbound forces influenced life on Earth. Combined with Copernicus’ findings,the logical conclusion based on the prevailingastrological assumptions was that astrology could no longer be consideredto have any relevance as a science. This unfortunate decision, in essence,threw the baby out with the bathwater as it eliminated all of the merits of astrology based on a potentially flawedassumption regarding the relationship between astral bodies and life onEarth. This decision also gave the Church a chance to remove personal truth from the peopleand thereby increase their own power as an institution by becoming the only perceived connection to spiritual truthfor the populace. For a more in depth look at the history of astrology click here.

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Dispelling theMyths

A common myth concerningastrology in our modern society is that it is a practice based on the beliefthat the astral bodies cause or createactivity on Earth. This is purely an assumptionand one that few modern Astrologers actually entertain. Most Astrologers,instead, are focused on helping their clients reach a level of self-understanding and self-empowerment that comes fromgaining true perspective of oneself. It is not merely a translation as to howthe puppet is being controlled by the puppet master, as some people assume. Inaddition, those who use astrology to understand collective concerns do so inorder to understand the flow andevolution of societies and not to reveal fortunes and destinies.

The starting point of any interpretation is the astrological birth chart of anindividual, a nation, or an event for example. Depending on how theinterpretation of a chart is approached, a multitude of information can begleaned from it. An astrological birth chart for an individual can be thoughtof as both a resume of the soul’spast and as a contract of the soul’sintention for their current life. Abirth chart, or natal chart, revealsa copious amount of information about an individual. It goes far beyond the Sun-signs, of which most people areaware. It instead reveals the uniquegifts that one brings into this lifeas well as the intentions for growth andchallenge toward mastery.

The birth chartis NOT a map of destiny but is instead a tool for conscious awareness. It helps reveal ourunconscious programs and gives usthe opportunity to become aware, or conscious,of these patterns. This consciousness gives us the power to choose and the freedom to escape the predictability associated with unconscious living (see brief video below). In addition, tracking the movement of the astralbodies relative to a person’s natal chart as the person’s life progresses canreveal the timing of specific opportunitiesfor growth and development along the way.

All humans experience innerconflict associated with personal growth. When we act unconsciously, ourinner conflicts are often projectedonto the people in our lives rather than ownedand recognized within ourselves. If these people in our lives are alsounconsciously projecting, it results in a perceivedouter conflict between two individuals. Astrology not only helps reveal ourinner conflicts but also helps to highlight when we are likely to allow ourunconscious programs to take control and when we are likely to project theseinner conflicts onto other people. This level of conscious awareness can work wonders in the world of relationships.

The same concepts can also be applied to collective entitiessuch as nations. Steffan Vanel explores the inner working of the United Statesin relation to other nations in his book, “The Astrological Karma of the U.S.A.”. Using astrology in relation to nations like the USA is not a new practice. In fact, former president Ronald Reagan and his wife Nancy consulted with JoanQuigley, an astrologer, regularly regarding travel and other important meetingsthroughout his 8 years in office. Some even speculate that USforeign policy was influenced by decisions made after their astrologicalconsultations. The potential for applying this wisdom to nations is intriguingbut I choose to focus mostly on using the potential of this ancient tooltowards the empowerment of individualsand their relationships.

To me, one thing is clear regarding recognition of our innerconflicts; consciousness leads toverdiance (i.e. alignment with truth) and unconsciousnessleads to violence. Unbeknown to most people, many professionalpsychologists use astrology as a guide when trying to understand the inner workings of their patients. Infact, Carl Jung was an avid astrologer and based much of his famed work(including his psychological archetypes and concepts like the collectiveunconscious) on concepts derived, in part, from astrological wisdom. The reasonfor this merging of disciplines is that astrology takes into account the emotional, spiritual, and mental realmsof the human experience in addition to the physicaland mechanistic realms that most of western culture ascribes to almostexclusively.

To modern western culture, the only parts of life with value are those which can be measured and objectively observed.Unfortunately, metaphysical concepts like emotions and thoughts, for example,just do not make the cut for this short list of values. The study of astrologyvalues a more dynamic human experience in the world that includes the parts oflife that cannot be measured andthat are inherently subjective.

Inwestern culture, the answer to depression is often a regimen of narcotics toessentially numb the emotions and/orthe mind. With astrology, depression and other mental/emotional imbalances aremet with compassion and understanding with an intention of uncovering root causes.

“The intuitive mind is a sacred gift, and the rational mindis a faithful servant. We have created a society that honors the servant, andhas forgotten the gift.”

– Albert Einstein

Astrologer and author of the book “Astrology and Compassion: The ConvenientTruth” had the following to say about the potentialuse of Astrology in our modern society:

“Wisdom includes everyaspect of knowledge with the humility to enable true understanding. Withoutrespect for every element in nature we know very little. Modern view holds thatonly mechanistic relationships are provable and should form the basis of alldecisions. Emotional factors and intuition cannot be measured and so shouldplay a lesser role or be ignored completely. Rejection of astrology denies theemerging industrial societies a way of assessing spiritual, mental andemotional development and behavior. By helping us understand our differences,it could enable for better relationships on a small scale and a large scale(war). Astrology should be respected and used in a humane and responsible way.”

Also, according to the PhD work of Psychologist andAstrologer Pat Harris, in the management of psychological pain, astrologicalcounseling appears to be just aseffective as psychological counseling with one notable difference…it is drug free. She found that it isalso kinder to the patient, more financially affordable and yields possible permanent psychological benefits. Thebottom line is that humans are much more than just our physical bodies and thephysical experiences that we have. We also have mental, emotional and spiritual aspects to our beings and Astrologyrecognizes and honors these aspects! Some common branches of astrology include:

Western Astrology(based on the Tropical Zodiac)

Vedic Astrology(based on the Sidereal Zodiac)

Chinese Astrology (based on Jupiter cycles)

Personally, I practice western astrology and I have littleexperience with vedic or Chinese applications. Depending on your intention, there are manyways to interpret a chart in western astrology. Some astrologers focus on the psychological components of a chartwhile others look at the chart from an evolutionaryperspective. Still others (like Nostradamus, for example) use it as a tool for medical insight and diagnosis whilesome even use it as a tool for superficialpersonality descriptions. When using astrology to gain insight into groups,like nations for example, the methods are referred to as judicial or mundane.

I typically combine psychological and evolutionary methodsas well as methods for superficial personality descriptions. I will assessindividuals and personal relationships and offer insight in terms of currentand future growth opportunities. However, I will not diagnose orsuggest treatment for any medical conditions.

When used as a forecasting tool, astrology can be anexcellent way for assessing the timingof particular experiences. But while physical events are always part of aperson’s experience, these physical events simply serve as a catalyst to the more significant inner experience. The timing of these experiences can bemapped with astrology, but the individual has a choice in how they manifest the physical events that willprovide them with their experience.

Kelly Lee Phipps has put together an impressive documentary film on authentic astrology entitled "Return of the Magi". I was fortunate enough to view the world premier of this film at the United Astrology Conference (UAC) in Denver, CO back in May 2008. This documentary offers a look at the history and practice of astrology over the years and includes dozens of interviews with professional astrologers with decades of experience.

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How Does AstrologyWork?

"I believe now that only this direct encounter with empirical data that one has personally investigated can effectively serve to overcome the extreme resistance that virtually every person educated within the modern context must initially experience towards astrology"

-Richard Tarnas (Cosmos and Psyche)

The honest answer to the question as to how astrology works is that no one really knows for sure. We canspeculate and pose theories but, in the end, it’s a lot like our acceptance ofthe concept of gravity. In case youare unaware, though there are many theories as to why gravity exists, an actualunderstanding of gravity has never been achieved. We only accept it because ofrepeated observational verification. Through observation, we know that it works, but the true origins of the underlying forces elude us. So the answer as tohow gravity works and as to how astrology works is essentially the same; it just does. And just as it makes no sense to walk off of a cliffand expect not to fall to yourdeath, it also makes no sense to omitastrology from our framework of knowledge if it has proven to be a valuabletool.

Advances in the physical sciences in the late 17^thcentury essentially shut the door on astrology as a legitimate scientific practice. But early21^st century advances in quantummechanics are beginning to revealthe possibility for a potential reversal in the thinking that oustedastrology.

Quantum physics can be described best with one word…bizarre. Quantum concepts fly in theface of accepted Newtonian laws for the physical universe and yet appear to bea more comprehensive set of conceptsin describing the truth about ourreality. Newtonian physics explains laws for only the physical universewhile quantum physics explains the holisticaspects of all of our experiences including the manifestation of the physical universe itself. It’s as if quantumphysics is the tree and Newtonianphysics is merely a description of onebranch of that tree. While valid in its own right, Newtonian physics has a limited application relative to our whole experience.

Quantum physics is not easy to explain. But the basic gistof it is that at the smallest level of existence,
everything is potential energy which may or may notmanifest physically. Through quantum physics we understand that all single occurrences in the physicalworld are the result of a conscioussubjective choice that collapses into being out of a wave of potential possibilities.

Also, in quantum physics there isa concept known as ‘non-local coherence’.The basics of this concept are that once sharing the same state, quanta(particles of potential energy that make up matter) remain interlinked no matter how physically far apart they move from eachother. In fact, through experimentation it has been shown that when one pair of formerly connected quanta is subjected to an interaction, one quantum will collapseinto its chosen state of reality. The twin quanta will then simultaneously collapse into a statethat is complimentary to the first quantumregardless of physical distance. There is an apparent synchronicity between thetwo experiences that cannot be explained using traditional linear thought!

Though my attempt to explain the bizarre world of quantumphysics in a couple of paragraphs begs for improvement, the implications that these conceptshave for explaining the holisticmechanics of astrology are at least worth entertaining. In astrological forecasting,prediction is based on the timing ofan experience. But it is up to theindividual to choose, and therefore,manifest their physical reality within the framework of the potential availableduring a particular time period of their lives. This is consistent with what is known about quantum mechanics.

Also, according toquantum mechanics, at the basic level of reality all particles remain interlinked no matter how far apartthey may move from each other. This means that, according to the big bang theory, since all components of ourknown universe were once sharing thesame physical state of being, in reality, all things have remainedinterlinked regardless of our ability to perceivethe links or not. This puts the concept of “We are all One” into perspective. In addition, the idea that twinquanta will collapse into states of reality that are complimentary to each other at leastbegins to reveal the possibility for the explanation as to how the movements ofplanetary bodies could possibly coincidewith experiences related to life on Earth. Perhaps what goes on deep in our solar system and beyond also occurs synchronistically within each of us if we are in reality all connected.

“As Above, So Below”

This explanation for the mechanism for astrology couldpotentially shut the door on the outdated assumption that people who believe inastrology also have to believe that the astral bodies control or cause life conditions onEarth or that to condone the practice of astrology is to believe in predestination. However, I am in no position to say that my theories regardingastrological mechanics are completely accurate. This is just my attempt at an explanationbased on modern science. But Iunderstand that even modern science, like Newtonian physics, may have its limitsin its ability to explain the holistic web from which our subjective experiences arise.

Regardless of the merits of my theories, those who study andpractice astrology do so because of their observed experiences with it. Theeffects are quite obvious to anyone with an open mind and a moment to explore.To these people, including myself, the practice of astrology is rewarding regardless of any acceptedmechanistic explanation for its existence.

Carl Jung’s ‘Synchronicity’theory is very similar to my quantum theory in terms of a possible explanation for how astrology works. Its basic premise is that some simultaneous occurrences between twoevents or experiences exist which fall outside the laws of probability. That is, statistically speaking, even thoughthere is no cause and effect relationship occurring, the simultaneousoccurrence of two events (i.e. a planet’s location and a person’s experience)is such that it is outside the probability of statistical chance. Therefore therelationship exists and has significanceregardless of causation.

But perhaps Roy Gillet said it best when he said thatastrology is a “truth operating with orwithout total human understanding”.

And just like with gravity, we canaccept astrology because of our experience with it, notbecause it has been explained.Ultimately, the more we know, themore questions are revealed. Thisexpands the known universe which then yields more to know. Regardless of how much we know, there will alwaysbe more to know. We must realize that we are only humans lost in the infinite truth…we just can’t possibly KNOW everything.

"The most beautiful and profound emotion we can experience is the sensation of the mystical. It is the power of all true science."
-Albert Einstein

2012 Astrology Forecast - No 'End' in Sight

2012-01-08T15:00:00.001-08:00

Summary

After all the hype and build-up, can you believe that 2012 is actually HERE? Astrologically speaking, there is plenty to discuss so I have broken down the coming year into three general time frames below to give you a better sense of the timing of the energy flow. Enjoy!

Early 2012

The early part of 2012 features some lingering energies that first developed in 2011 in addition to some new developments. Jupiter in Taurus initiated a trine with Pluto in Capricorn in early July 2011 and Mars in Virgo formed a ‘grand trine’ with both planets in mid-November 2011. This smooth flow of energy between the earth signs finalizes in mid-March 2012 when the configuration becomes exact for the last time. Also, Neptune first entered its home in Pisces from early April through early August 2011 and will re-enter Pisces again in early February 2012 where it will reside until 2026!

As we start this New Year, we are greeted immediately with a new long-term trine configuration between Saturn and Neptune. This trine will last from early 2012 through most of 2013 as well and will mostly involve Saturn in Scorpio and Neptune in Pisces. Finally, the planet Mars will retrograde in the sign of Virgo during much of the early part of 2012 (late January through mid-April) which is something it does approximately once every two years for approximately 3 months.

Interpretation:

With Neptune in Aquarius since the mid-late 1990’s, the world developed ways of connecting through ‘disconnection’ via mediums such as reality TV and social networking. As Neptune enters its home sign of Pisces for a long stay (starting in early February), we will witness a world that will find ‘true’ connection and ‘oneness’ again. The ‘occupy’ movement is a great example of what Neptune in Aquarius represents and the next phase of honoring our totality and oneness will be where the movement goes from here. Mid-late summer 2011 saw this movement blossom right alongside the Jupiter/Pluto trine (rapid expansion/growth). So, I expect the period from mid-March through mid-April to be a significant time of concrete action being implemented echoing back to what was being initiated in mid-November 2011. The Saturn/Neptune trine speaks to the gradual merging of ‘dreams’ with ‘reality’ over the next two years, starting in early 2012. The Mars retrograde represents the behind the scenes (pre-action) efforts that need to be figured out both personally and collectively.

Mid-2012

On the heels of the Mars retrograde will be a Venus retrograde in Gemini from mid-May through late June 2012. As part of this retrograde, Venus will ‘occult’ (i.e. eclipse) the Sun in early June as it did in early June 2004, completing this once in ~121 year cycle. Also, Jupiter will enter Gemini in mid-June where it will square Neptune in Pisces in late June and begin a sextile to Uranus in Aries in late July that will last through early 2013. Finally, a long-term square between Uranus in Aries and Pluto in Capricorn makes its first of seven exact aspects in late June echoing themes set forth in the mid-late 1960’s when these planets formed a conjunction and initiated the current cycle. This square will last through early 2015.

Interpretation:

With respect to the aforementioned ‘occupy’ movement, I would expect to see a lot of behind the scenes efforts that do not bear fruit until the March/April time frame followed by a reorganization of our values on a societal level (mid-May through late June). Will the markets be challenged to change in a direction that better reflects our oneness? You bet.

June 2012 looks to me to be the most significant month of the year. The Venus occultation to the Sun along with Jupiter entering Gemini and the first Uranus/Pluto square all point to the beginning of a major shift in human consciousness based on new information that is revealed. Will it be regarding aliens, free energy, and the secrets of healing? It could be any and all of the above. The new consciousness related to our interconnectivity (civil rights, environment, etc.) that was seeded and fertilized in the mid-late 1960’s is now ready to be cultivated but it’s up to us to choose which directions we want to take it over the next several years. Also, don’t expect protesters to go away any time soon.

Late 2012

As we approach the end of 2012, Saturn will enter Scorpio (early October) and begin a long-term sextile to Pluto in Capricorn. Saturn will also begin a long-term quincunx to Uranus in Aries in mid-November further emphasizing the long-term Uranus/Pluto square that initiates in late June. Finally, Jupiter will move into a general position (between July and December) that will form a Yod (i.e. finger of God) configuration as Jupiter quincunxes both ends of the Saturn/Pluto sextile.

Interpretation:

The end of the year sees the beginning of a gradual period of actual restructuring of the ‘powers that be’ starting to take place (i.e. the relationship between governments and corporations). The adjustments will not be easy but it looks as though this time period coinciding with the 2012 election in the US just may be a period when those in power recognize the true ‘power of the people’ as they cannot hide the ‘truth’ any longer. Whatever truths are revealed, it will make it nearly impossible to carry on business as usual.

Happy New Year!

www.SovereignHarmony.com

Saturn trine Neptune: Drifting Toward Dream Manifestation

2011-12-23T22:21:00.000-08:00

Early this week, the Sun forms a sextile to Saturn followed by a sextile to Neptune. This essentially introduces the long-term trine aspect between Saturn and Neptune as the Sun 'lights up' the midpoint between these outer planets. This trine between Saturn and Neptune gets close enough to be within a 1' orb later this week and these planets will continue to be in and out of this aspect with each other through the summer of 2013.

This cycle actually initiated between mid-February and late November 1989 when these planets formed a conjunction in Capricorn. This initiated a new cycle related to merging dreams (Neptune) with reality (Saturn) and merging truth (Neptune) with structure (Saturn). Other key turning points for this cycle were from late March through mid-April 1999 when Saturn squared Neptune and again from late August 2006 through early July 2007 when Saturn opposed Neptune.

If you can think of the themes in your own life around these dates related to the perceived disparity between dreams/truth and reality/structure then you may be able to have a clue as to what the next 18 months will gradually and effortlessly bring your way. Hopefully you took advantage of these key time periods because this trine acts like a snowball coming down the mountain! Whatever you have 'built' will be implementing itself for better or for worse. It might be easiest to just look back to late 2006 through early 2007 to see how life was unfolding as this was a time when we perceived that our dreams were distant from what was realistic. If you 'gave up' on yourself then, expect it to be VERY tempting and almost impossible to stop that momentum now. However, if you channeled your perceived doubt into creative energy and worked to bridge the gap between your dreams and your perceived reality at that time, then expect your dreams to begin almost to 'effortlessly' manifest themselves over the next 18 months.

Don't believe me? Give it a conscious try ;)...

Below is an example from my own life regarding these key dates as well as some more collective-level (US policy and Northern CA disaster preparedness) experiences of these energies at work:

Saturn conjunct Neptune: Mid-February through late November 1989 - Birth of the new cycle

I was a 10 yr old who had just finished up a special extra-curricular course which covered the science of Meteorology (i.e. weather & forecasting) from where I would go on to major in Meteorology (i.e. dreams into reality) a decade later. I also had my 6th and final ear surgery which was supposed to 'fix' (Saturn) my perforated eardrums for good. However, the surgery was not a success for unknown reasons (Neptune) and a perforated ear drum in my left ear remained.

Collectively, this is when the Montreal Protocol occurred which rose the awareness of 'climate change' in terms of human-related activities. Also, more locally, this is when the 1989 Loma Prieta earthquake occurred in the San Francisco Bay Area. The 'truth' was out regarding current 'structures' that needed adjustments.

Saturn square Neptune: Late March through mid-April 1999 - First

tensions & adjustments of the cycle

I was a sophomore Meteorology major who was preparing to spend a good chunk of my summer at basic training with the Air Force ROTC program where I was to become an Air Force Meteorologist. However, in April of that year, I received a phone call after a routine physical for the ROTC program through which I was informed that I was disqualified for the program due to my still unresolved perforated eardrum!

At this time, many scientific studies were being conducted related to human influences on climate change which made it a political hot topic for the first time during the 2000 election with Al Gore running for president. In Northern CA, the Bay Bridge retrofits were also a hot topic with lots of contention regarding costs and tax payer money etc.

Saturn opposite Neptune: Late August 2006 through early July 2007 - Culmination and unfolding

After my opportunity with the Air Force fell through I started to realize that I had only majored in Meteorology because my mom mentioned to me in passing as a teen that I 'really liked that course' I took when I was 10! I had to then start from scratch in terms of my plans for the future in the late 1990's which led me down many paths including where I ended up by late 2006 into 2007. I found myself living 3,000 miles away from home in Sacramento, CA pushing my ambitious goals that I never would have had if I had stayed with the Air Force. I also got laid off for the first time during this time period and I fully experienced the sense of an 'unpredictable future' which was, in retrospect, the point of the life lesson of being released by the predictable future promised through the Air Force. This was perhaps a time of disillusionment for me but also a time where, by the summer of 2007, I felt like an approach to life without too much predictability (Saturn) was in favor of my dreams (Neptune) rather than a deterrent from them.

At this time, Al Gore's "An Inconvenient Truth" came out which brought the collective awareness of the climate change issue (whether you personally trust the information or not) to the public. Also, most of the retrofits of bridges in the San Francisco Bay were either being finished or finalized in terms of plans.

Saturn trine Neptune: Late December 2011 through late July 2013 - Momentum from the unfolding

So what does the next 18 months bring? For me, I assume that I will be further challenged to live 'unpredictably'. Since I feel that I came through the recent opposition (2006-2007) with a positive outlook and a sense of possibility for the future, this time just may reflect that momentum. I'll keep my fingers crossed and just keep on steering toward structuring my dreams regardless of the currents I have created ;).

In terms of climate change, I am guessing that by mid-2013 there will be solid legislation related to human-related emissions OR that the 'truth' about the human influence comes out in one form or another and coincides with the unveiling of FREE energy which negates the need for legislation in the first place. For the Bay Area, I think there will be a MAJOR earthquake between now and the summer of 2013 and the level of damage will reflect the degree of the efforts for the retrofits that were put into place. My guess is that the earthquake

will be larger in magnitude than the 1989 Loma Prieta quake but that the damage and death toll will be far less because of the retrofits. Lets hope so :).

Regardless of whether you 'gave up' on your dreams or you pushed forward to 'make them real' back in late 2006 through early 2007, you now have a chance to 'ride the wave' of your creations over the next 18 months. Even if the momentum is not in your favor due to your previous choices, that doesn't mean you cannot steer in the direction you want to go. It just makes it a little more difficult to steer out of the current. If you created a favorable current relative to your present intentions, you will experience the more 'effortless' flow of the manifestation of your dreams over this period. Otherwise, it will just take more work but the result can still be the same...

I'd love to hear YOUR personal stories regarding these themes over the next 18 months!!

-Christopher Robert Taylor

Sovereign Harmony

Total Lunar Eclipse – 12/10/2011

2011-12-04T11:39:00.000-08:00

Its eclipse season again! This most recent round started off with a new moon solar eclipse that peaked at approximately 1:12am EST on Friday, November 25...'Black Friday' in the US. Next on the list is the TOTAL full moon lunar eclipse (see chart above) that peaks at approximately 09:35am EST on Saturday, December 10.

Eclipses usually occur two weeks apart from each other twice per year. Each series typically includes a lunar eclipse followed by a solar eclipse or vice versa. A lunar eclipse occurs when the Earth is partially blocking the moon from the sun during a full moon. A solar eclipse occurs when the moon blocks the sun from the Earth during a new moon. Full moons and new moons represent astrologically potent time periods anyway, but the eclipses just add some amplification and usually a little dose of the unexpected!

Astrologically speaking, new moons are generally a time of sowing seeds while full moons are a time of reaping what we sow. Where a new moon falls in our personal natal chart represents a time of new beginnings and laying new foundations in the parts of our lives represented by the astrological house that is highlighted. Where a full moon falls in our personal natal chart represents a time of sudden awareness, revelation, culmination and completion in the parts of our lives represented by the astrological house that is highlighted. Eclipses just add some spice and surprise to these time periods.

Ancient astrologers saw eclipse seasons as especially potent time periods with regards to wars and the fate of nations. I personally prefer to look at eclipses relative to the lives and relationships of individuals. In this regard, eclipse seasons are often potent times for unexpected change in terms of surprise new beginnings and to final culminations of things which have been building for some time.

This current total lunar eclipse will peak at approximately 18° Gemini and it will be in conjunction with the south node of the moon. This represents a time of culmination, release, and filtering of energy. When we are open and flexible in the face of change, this can be a rewarding time where we experience the culmination of past efforts or the finishing of unfinished business. If we have been creating against our best interests or if we have been keeping things under the surface, this may mark a stressful time of culmination with regards to the release of our secrets or the results of our less than stellar creations. The experiences of this nature would be felt within the domain of the astrological house that encompasses the location of this eclipse at 18° Gemini. You would need to consult your own natal chart to find out where this position falls for you.

For example, this point falls in my natal 9^th house (near the Midheaven) which is the house covering travel, education, news from 'afar', the internet, publishing, etc. For me (and everyone else who has 18° Gemini in their 9^th house) this could mark a culmination and release related to travel, publishing or hearing surprising news from afar. This eclipse includes a challenging aspect to Mars in my 12^th house of secrets, hidden enemies, spirituality, & behind the scenes activities as well as a challenging aspect to Venus in my 4^th house of home, security, emotions, and family. This eclipse is in supportive aspects to Neptune in my 6th house of health, work, service, & daily routine and to Saturn in my 2nd house of self-worth, finances, tangibility, & sensuality. I better be diligent with whom I conduct business but it appears that I may get the opportunity to prove that my 'outside-the-box' services can gain traction and earn tangible results and personal security for me (though I may be required to relocate to make it happen!). If I am not dealing with perceived enemies trying to block my path, then I will certainly be dealing with the most hidden enemy of all...unconscious self-sabotage!

In general, this eclipse's aspects point to an opportunity to release old beliefs over the next several months to make room for new growth opportunities coming in early summer 2012 (see below). This release process will require that we are willing to adjust our values (ideas about abundance/scarcity and whats important in our relationships) and willing to do the the diligent and detailed work that is required to to shift the momentum of our lives into more favorable currents. As long as justice, equality, and acceptance are part of the picture, our long-term security will be solid.

Collectively, I feel that truths are about to be revealed and that the general public will have to make some quick value adjustments (i.e. possibly temporarily living without money) while doing the 'hard-work' of beginning the process of organizing our new reality into a well-oiled machine for the good of all. Some of these secrets may include the realization that all of those electronic numbers in the stock market (and your 401K) aren't 'money' at all. Secrets related to the bridge between science and spirituality will likely be part of the picture as well. With the truth out, there would be no turning back and we would be required to move forward and create our society around these truths rather than according to an out-dated system that only served its creators.

The combination of the house location of the eclipse, its aspects to other current planets, and its aspects to the personal natal planets yields a very unique interpretation for each individual. For the best results in this case, find out where this lunar eclipse and the other planets involved fall in your natal chart. Then find any planets or personal points in your natal chart that are also aspected by these configurations.

Location of Current Total Lunar Eclipse Configurations

Lunar Eclipse - Moon @ 18° Gemini, Sun @ 18° Sagittarius

Mars - 13° Virgo

Neptune - 28° Aquarius

Saturn - 27° Libra

Venus - 17° Capricorn

The effects of this eclipse can be felt within a few days on either side of December 10 and may be felt through early June 2012! This is mainly because Mars will 'trigger' this eclipse by way of a square aspect starting the weekend of Christmas and ending in early June within a few days of the Venus/Sun occultation!

The Venus/Sun Occultation is a rare event with HUGE significance and will occur within orb of the degree of this eclipse in Gemini to boot! This rare event deserves its own write-up but, in any case, it appears that what we RELEASE related to this eclipse over the next several months will allow us the room to OPEN ourselves to the growth opportunities offered to us in early June 2012 with the Venus/Sun Occultation. I'll just say that it appears that the sacred feminine is making a comeback for ALL of us! Good times!

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Happy Eclipse Season!

'Black Friday' Solar Eclipse - 11/25/2011

2011-11-20T10:27:00.000-08:00

Its eclipse season again! This most recent round starts off with a new moon solar eclipse that peaks at approximately 1:12am EST on Friday, November 25...'Black Friday' in the US.

Full moons and new moons represent astrologically potent time periods anyway, but the eclipses just add some amplification and usually a little dose of the unexpected!

This particular solar eclipse occurs at 3° Sagittarius and will be forming difficult square aspects to Mars at 7° Virgo and to Neptune at 28° Aquarius. It will also form a smoother flowing trine to Uranus at 1° Aries as well as an adjustment-seeking quincunx to Jupiter at 2° Taurus. Its 'Black Friday' in the US and shoppers will be out in masses. But the unusually early start to this year's event has some people protesting. Is there really any question WHY the 'occupy' movement is occurring? The only real question that remains is what to do about a situation where high powered executives are not held accountable. Forcing their workers to work strange hours for higher profits while they pass out on a couch at home somewhere, is just another example of the unaccountability problem.

With this eclipse occurring in Sagittarius (along with the start of Mercury retrograde in Sagittarius), I see some sort of 'wake-up call' incident occurring that leads to a need to reassess the value of rushing out to beat out other shoppers in a game that only serves an elite few. It may be that it takes an unfortunate accident to occur that reminds us that this kind of approach just isn't 'worth' it. Hopefully not though...

Depending on where this lands in your own personal natal chart, this eclipse is likely to lead to the start of some type of new initiative that requires independent action without any clear sense of which way is the 'right' way. Our values are shifting and we just don't need the collective approval that we always thought we needed to move forward. We are prepared to do the little details and grunt work to head in the direction of our visions, even without a compass. Such brave souls we are!

The experiences of this nature would be felt within the domain of the astrological house that encompasses the location of this eclipse at 3° Sagittarius. You would need to consult your own natal chart to find out where this position falls for you. For example, this point falls in my natal 3rd house which is the house covering contracts, discussions, information, and general life 'busyness'. For me (and everyone else who has 3° Sagittarius in their 3rd house) this could mark a new beginning related to my daily activities and contract discussions. I'll be hitting the ground running (Mars in Virgo) with a new venture (Solar Eclipse in Sagittarius/3rd house) and meeting with clients in a whole new way (Uranus in Aries/7th house) relative to my previous experience all while remaining unclear exactly what my cause is (Neptune in Aquarius/6th house) and whether it will actually support me financially (Jupiter in Taurus/8th house). Sounds about right ;)!

The combination of the house location of the eclipse, its aspects to other current planets, and its aspects to the personal natal planets yields a very unique interpretation for each individual. For the best results in this case, find out where this solar eclipse and the other planets involved fall in your natal chart. Then find any planets or personal points in your natal chart that are also aspected by these configurations.

Location of Current Solar Eclipse Configurations

Solar Eclipse – Sun/Moon @ 3° Sagittarius

Mars – 7° Virgo

Neptune – 28° Aquarius

Uranus – 1° Aries

Jupiter - 2° Taurus

The effects of this eclipse may ripple out as long as several months with initial conditions starting at or near the eclipse date (November 25, 2011). Mars recently squared the location of this eclipse from Virgo last week (~Nov 15, 2011) and won't form a conjunction with this location in early Sagittarius until ~Oct 10, 2012. You may have already felt some of the effects of this eclipse starting last week and the full force of what this eclipse is unleashing may not be fully apparent until October 2012!

General Advice:

Expanding beyond our comfort zones takes a 'leap of faith' at the very least. Fortunately, we are ready for the hard work and we are more aware of our independent needs and can honor this shift in values while taking chances with our 'truth'. Its one thing to know your truth, but its another thing to take action to honor it. Let the window that opens with this eclipse allow in the courage you need to act as though you actually value your truth for once!

Good luck!

To find out where all of this is happening in your own personal natal chart and for a look at other configurations currently showing up in your chart schedule a personal consultation with me today!

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Happy Eclipse Season!

On The Spot: "Creating From Within" - 9/20/2011

2011-09-20T16:06:00.000-07:00

Want to have your chart featured on my website with a FREE brief 10-15 minute YouTube interpretation from me? With permission from you I am willing to feature a brief interpretation of your chart on my site for FREE. Depending on the type of reading, the information can be very sensitive and revealing so we can discuss the level of confidentiality on a case-by-case basis. But if you are up for it, I will put you 'On The Spot' for a specified period of time and I will be 'on the spot' to come through with an accurate interpretation!

Interested in a comprehensive consultation?
www.myastrochris.com

On The Spot: "Tangible Developments" - 9/6/2011

2011-09-06T14:57:00.000-07:00

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On The Spot: "Dreaming Big" - 8/25/2011

2011-08-25T16:44:00.000-07:00

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On The Spot: "Nurturing Inner Potential" - 8/11/2011

2011-08-11T15:55:00.000-07:00

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On The Spot: "Grounding The Launch" - 7/26/2011

2011-07-26T10:46:00.000-07:00

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On The Spot: "Birthing A New Foundation" - 7/13/2011

2011-07-13T11:51:00.000-07:00

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Jupiter Trine Pluto: Expanding Truth & Empowerment - "The Run"

2011-07-04T10:02:00.000-07:00

I REALLY like the potential that this trine between Jupiter and Pluto represents. Jupiter is the planet dealing with expansion, growth, optimism, long distance messages, travel, and higher learning while Pluto deals with transformation, actualization, purging, release, power, and truth. From July 2011 through March 2012 Jupiter and Pluto form a pleasant and flowing trine (120') with each other from the earth signs of Taurus and Capricorn, respectively, that is sure to feature a relatively subtle release from old power structures toward the expansion of truth and wisdom to the masses in some way. You may experience this in your own life as an expanding sense of self-confidence and empowerment in your ability to make choices and to direct your activities in a way that aligns with your highest truth in the world.

Sound too good to be true? Well, its all in what you make of it. But starting with the first of three trines between Jupiter and Pluto on July 7, 2011 you will have roughly 9 months to take advantage of this potential for your own life. Below are the three (3) exact dates that Jupiter and Pluto form a trine with each other over this period.

Jupiter trine Pluto
July 7, 2011
October 28, 2011
March 12, 2012

We have to look back at the beginning of this latest Jupiter/Pluto cycle to get an idea of just what might be ready to find new ground for you in your life. The beginning of this latest cycle occurred in December 2007 when these two planets made their once in 13 years conjunction in the late degrees of Sagittarius. See my article regarding last year's Jupiter/Pluto square for more details on the timing of the planetary cycles for these two planets since December 2007:

http://myastrochris.blogspot.com/2010/07/jupiter-square-pluto-rapid-growth-and.html

Since the sextile and trine aspects are not included in the timeline from my previous article, I have listed all of the major aspects between Jupiter and Pluto since their last conjunction along with their general time frames of influence (1' orb) below:

Jupiter conjunct Pluto - Early-Mid December 2007 (Sagittarius)
Jupiter sextile Pluto - Late January-Early February 2010 (Pisces/Capricorn)
Jupiter square Pluto - July 2010-February 2011 (Aries/Capricorn)
Jupiter trine Pluto - July 2011-March 2012 (Taurus/Capricorn)

Generally speaking, the conjunction in December 2007 represented the 'seed planting' phase for this energy. What ambitions and other forms of self-empowerment were you unwittingly 'testing out' during that time period? The sextile in early 2010 was a period of 'opportunity' to expand our potential on some level related to whatever we started in December 2007. Did you take subtle steps toward any opportunities that winter? The square which started last summer (2010) and just recently ended in late February of this year was a time of 'taking action' with regards to our new found ambitions and new sense of self. Finally, this trine period, which is initiating over the next week, will give us a 9-month opportunity to 'experience' the growth that we have created for ourselves. We will see what all of this 'culminates' to when Jupiter opposes Pluto from August 2013 through April 2014 (see previous article for details on the energy of the opposition).

What I find even more interesting about this Jupiter/Pluto trine is that the asteroid Chiron is also forming sextile aspects (60') to BOTH planets as it lies directly between Jupiter and Pluto in the sign of Pisces for the first of the three trines between them (See chart above). Chiron initiated a sextile with Jupiter earlier this month which will last through February 2012. Chiron's sextile to Pluto initiated in late June and will last through January 2015! However, this first week of July 2011 is the ONLY time during any of the periods mentioned where ALL THREE planetary bodies (Jupiter, Pluto, & Chiron) will be within 1' orb of each other.

The last of the three trines between Jupiter and Pluto features a retrograde Mars completing a 'grand trine' with this configuration from the sign of Virgo. Considering this last aspect occurs just hours before my next Solar Return (i.e. birthday) in March 2012, I am excited about the prospects! But, in any case, this Jupiter/Pluto trine certainly isn't occurring in a vacuum as other planetary bodies will be involved in what 'evolves' with this transit.

Adding Chiron to the equation for this trine between Jupiter and Pluto adds a layer of 'revealing' and 'healing' to this new found growth into our truth. Exposure and vulnerability are sure to be a part of this overall energy over the next 1 to 3 years. This goes for our own lives as well as the world at large. To me, Chiron in Pisces adds a layer of potential healing on a massive scale. Considering that Jupiter in Taurus deals with the expansion of information/resources and Pluto in Capricorn deals with the total destruction/transformation of existing power structures, I wanted to use a real-world example of a large-scale potential to spread tangible information to a massive audience with the potential of healing.

I realized that I didn't need to look much beyond my own Midtown Sacramento, CA neighborhood for just such an example! On July 17, 2011 (and through November 16, 2011), Dr. Dennis Godby (Doctor of Naturopathic Medicine), his two sons, and his nephew will be running from San Francisco, CA to Bridgeport, CT to raise awareness about alternative health options that are available through natural medicine. The event is being referred to as "The Run" and its goal is to highlight the need to put 'health back in American health care'. As Dr. Godby states:

“We live in a nation where the only widely acceptable approach to medicine is pharmaceutical-based, and focused on treatment of advanced disease. We need to go beyond treating disease, and even beyond preventing disease. We need to move toward real health, which means so much more than just preventing really bad things from happening...”

While these ideas are not new, perhaps it is finally 'time' for such knowledge to become more widespread and to fall more into the mainstream acceptance field. Currently, existing health care structures like Medicare are up for review/questioning and its just possible that an effort to spread tangible information/resources over a long distance (Jupiter in Taurus) with the intention of revealing outworn pharmaceutical-driven systems in need of reform (Pluto in Capricorn) so that people on a massive scale have a chance to actually heal from their ailments (Chiron in Pisces) could be 'just what the doctor ordered'...or just what the Naturopathic Doctor ordered for this time period :).

I am curious as to whether December 2007 was a significant 'seed planting' time for this endeavor. As a patient of Dr. Godby's, I know for certain that the Jupiter/Pluto square time period from July 2010 through early March 2011 WAS a time of work and taking action toward the development of this large event. I am also curious to know whether early 2010 (Jupiter/Pluto sextile in late Feb/early March) featured a time that the wheels started to roll with regards to developing the event. In any case, this current time period is the PERFECT ENERGY to unleash the information and awareness for which the "The Run" has intended. I expect that this event will be LARGER in terms of influence and outreach than Dr. Godby has envisioned thus far. But I am sure he will be a little too focused on his feet hitting the pavement over the next several months to notice any impact until he is finished in November! Good luck to Dr. Godby and his sons/nephew!

Whatever comes out of this effort will likely not bear its fruits until the period from August 2013 through April 2014 when Jupiter opposes Pluto. There is always a lag time between information and implementation, so perhaps it will take a couple of years before new health care systems are created that support the intentions of natural medicine and the awareness that this event will bring to the masses. Guess we will have to wait and see!

With regards to natural medicine in general, I ran across this published article from December 2007 on the function of ginger in inhibiting cell growth in ovarian cancer:
http://www.biomedcentral.com/1472-6882/7/44/abstract

While it may be 2-3 years before the Jupiter/Pluto opposition that will bear the fruits and implementation of seeds like this that were planted around December 2007, rest assured that 2011 will be a BIG year with regards to pushing the envelope and unveiling the TRUTH about health/healing and the strangle-hold that pharmaceutical companies have had over the health care industry and on YOUR health in recent decades! Its time we ALL grow in this awareness.

For more information on "The Run" and when it may be coming to a city near you, please check out the following website:

http://www.therun.org/

Also, if you live in the Sacramento area, there is a Health Festival to Celebrate Natural Medicine on Friday, July 22 at Fremont Park (corner of 16th/Q). The runners will also be crossing the Sacramento River and entering Sacramento over the Tower Bridge on Thursday, July 21 if you want to witness it from the Capitol. The Friday event will also be part of the welcome party for the runners. If you are a local vendor with health related products and/or services, there may still be room to get on the vendor list! Contact me for details on becoming a vendor!

For more details on this event, check out the Facebook event page here:
https://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=220473031305078

What is the potential for manifestation of this POWERFUL energy in your own life? Contact me to set up a consultation on YOUR own personal outlook!

Happy 4th of July!

www.myastrochris.com

On The Spot: "Releasing the Tribe" - 6/28/2011

2011-06-28T12:10:00.000-07:00

Partial Solar Eclipse – 7/1/2011

2011-06-27T12:21:00.000-07:00

Its eclipse season again! This most recent round started off with a partial solar eclipse that peaked at approximately 5:03pm EDT on Wednesday, June 1. This eclipse was followed by a total lunar eclipse which peaked at approximately 4:14pm EDT on Wednesday, June 15 and another partial solar eclipse that peaks at approximately 4:54am EDT on Friday, July 1.

This particular solar eclipse occurs at 9° Cancer and will form a ‘Grand Cross’ with Pluto (opposition) in Capricorn, Saturn (square) in Libra, and Uranus (square) in Aries. Depending on where this lands in your own personal natal chart, this eclipse has an ‘out with the old, in with the new’ feel to it. Recent stagnation in our lives is poised to break and allow a new flow but not without resistance from both within & without. All we can do is control what we are resisting and hanging onto unnecessarily. This eclipse marks a break and release point that will provide much growth but we must be willing to release what no longer serves us.

The experiences of this nature would be felt within the domain of the astrological house that encompasses the location of this eclipse at 9° Cancer. You would need to consult your own natal chart to find out where this position falls for you. For example, this point falls in my natal 10^th house which is the house covering career, reputation, public standing, & recognition. For me (and everyone else who has 9° Cancer in their 10^th house) this could mark a release and a new beginning related to career and public image. The rest of the ‘grand cross’ configuration throughout my 1^st, 4^th, & 7^th houses points to new adjustments with regards to the type of employee/employer relationship to which I have been accustomed. Perhaps this will feature an opportunity to be more in my own authority within an employee/employer relationship than I have been presented with to date.

This eclipse also aligns with a Yod configuration in my natal chart suggesting that crucial decisions related to my path and ‘destiny’ is up for consideration. I better pay attention.

The combination of the house location of the eclipse, its aspects to other current planets, and its aspects to the personal natal planets yields a very unique interpretation for each individual. For the best results in this case, find out where this solar eclipse and the other planets involved fall in your natal chart. Then find any planets or personal points in your natal chart that are also aspected by these configurations.

Location of Current Solar Eclipse Configurations

Solar Eclipse – Sun/Moon @ 9° Cancer

Saturn – 11° Libra

Pluto – 6° Capricorn

Uranus – 4° Aries

Jupiter – 5° Taurus

Neptune – 1° Pisces

The effects of this eclipse may ripple out as long as a few months with initial conditions starting at or near the eclipse date (July 1, 2011). The ‘trigger point’ for this energy occurs when Mars hits 9° Cancer around August 17th. Keep your eyes open at that time in terms of these themes for your life. This lands right in the middle of the next Mercury Retrograde period suggesting further that this particular eclipse will involve crucial introspection to release outworn baggage and open to newer ways of being.

General Advice:

It’s time to let go and open up to what awaits us. Clinging to old habits and ways will only cause suffering now as life is about to adjust in ways that will require our willing intention in order for it to run smoothly.

Good luck!

Eclipse Report Sample!

Happy Eclipse Season!

Total Lunar Eclipse – 6/15/2011

2011-06-14T21:11:00.000-07:00

Its eclipse season again! This most recent round started off with a partial solar eclipse that peaked at approximately 5:03pm EDT on Wednesday, June 1. This eclipse is now followed by a total lunar eclipse which peaks at approximately 4:13pm EDT on Wednesday, June 15 and another partial solar eclipse that peaks at approximately 4:54am EDT on Friday, July 1.

This current lunar eclipse will peak at approximately 24° Sagittarius and it will be opposing Mercury while forming a minor aspect to Mars and a wide trine to Jupiter. This represents a time of culmination, opening, soul, and emotional energy with regards to opening new horizons. When we are open and flexible in the face of change, this can be a rewarding time where we experience the culmination of past efforts. If we have been creating against our best interests or if we have been keeping things under the surface, this may mark a stressful time of culmination with regards to the release of our secrets or the results of our less than stellar creations. The experiences of this nature would be felt within the domain of the astrological house that encompasses the location of this eclipse at 24° Sagittarius. You would need to consult your own natal chart to find out where this position falls for you.

For example, this point falls in my natal 4^th house which is the house covering home, emotions, family, and the past. For me (and everyone else who has 24° Sagittarius in their 4^th house) this could mark a culmination and opening related to my home base or deeply buried emotions. This eclipse includes challenging aspects to Mars in my 9^th house and a flowing aspect to Jupiter in my 8^th house. This may mark a time in my life where my comfort zone is rapidly expanded and where I find myself supported in ways I never would have espoused. But I need to be open to allowing ‘foreign’ opportunities into my life for this to be possible. Trusting the process of expansion and welcoming assistance will be a key element of this experience for me.

My natal Sun, Moon, AC, MC, Neptune, and lunar nodes are all aspected heavily by this eclipse. The fact that I was born during a lunar eclipse increases its importance for me even further. Yes, this one could be pretty intense for me (also true for anyone born around the 15th of March, June, September & December)!

In general, this eclipse includes challenging aspects to Mars in Taurus and a flowing aspect to Jupiter in Taurus. Whatever this leads to for you, it may feel like a massive opening and realization. In some cases, difficult adjustments may have to be accommodated relative to what rapidly develops and transpires.

Location of Current Lunar Eclipse Configurations

Lunar Eclipse à Moon @ 24° Sagittarius, Sun @ 24° Gemini

Mars - 26° Taurus

Jupiter - 2° Taurus

The effects of this eclipse may ripple out as long as a few months with initial conditions starting at or near the eclipse date (June 15, 2011). The ‘trigger point’ for this energy occurs when Mars hits 24° Gemini in late July (~ the 26^th +/-). Keep your eyes open at that time in terms of these themes coming to fruition in your life.

General Advice:

New developments are likely to rapidly develop and require some difficult adjustments in our typical approach to the situation. A willingness to compromise and grow from these new experiences is what is called for here.

Good luck!

Eclipse Report Sample!

Happy Eclipse Season!

On The Spot: "Repressed Ambition" - 6/14/2011

2011-06-14T14:12:00.000-07:00

On The Spot: "Rising Into Authority" - 6/2/2011

2011-06-06T15:10:00.000-07:00

Partial Solar Eclipse – 6/1/2011

2011-05-28T17:34:00.000-07:00

Its eclipse season again! This most recent round starts off with a partial solar eclipse that peaks at approximately 5:03pm EDT on Wednesday, June 1. This eclipse will be followed by a total lunar eclipse which peaks at approximately 4:14pm EDT on Wednesday, June 15 and another partial solar eclipse that peaks at approximately 4:54am EDT on Friday, July 1.

This particular solar eclipse occurs at 11° Gemini and will be in a cooperative trine aspect to Saturn at 11° Libra. Depending on where this lands in your own personal natal chart, this eclipse is likely to lead to the start of some type of new initiative that requires a release of the way things have been in order to move forward. With Saturn in a close trine to this eclipse, any new endeavors will start slowly but with proper adjustment & steady effort can lead to eventual success. Most of the required adjustments have been building for some time and this eclipse represents a catalyst toward those ends.

The experiences of this nature would be felt within the domain of the astrological house that encompasses the location of this eclipse at 11° Gemini. You would need to consult your own natal chart to find out where this position falls for you. For example, this point falls in my natal 9^th house which is the house covering education, learning, philosophy, travel, & new ideas. For me (and everyone else who has 11° Gemini in their 9^th house) this could mark a release and a new beginning related to a personal philosophy or to a new sense of possibilities. The trine to Saturn, in this case, is from the 9^th house to the 1^st house of self, image, and personality. For me this could be a time where I am faced to get serious about living according to my beliefs. It could also be an opportunity to learn a new skill or program that could become a long-term involvement.

This trine between the Solar Eclipse and Saturn also forms a Grand Trine to my natal Venus at 12° Aquarius. For me, its possible that new ideas or opportunities are brought to me through a female that lives outside of my area and that these could involve a new way of earning money. This may also result in a new love interest. Sounds good to me.

The combination of the house location of the eclipse, its aspects to other current planets, and its aspects to the personal natal planets yields a very unique interpretation for each individual. For the best results in this case, find out where this solar eclipse and the other planets involved fall in your natal chart. Then find any planets or personal points in your natal chart that are also aspected by these configurations.

Location of Current Solar Eclipse Configurations

Solar Eclipse – Sun/Moon @ 11° Gemini

Saturn – 11° Libra

The effects of this eclipse may ripple out as long as a few months with initial conditions starting at or near the eclipse date (June 1, 2011). The ‘trigger point’ for this energy occurs when Mars hits 11° Gemini just after the 4^th of July weekend. Keep your eyes open at that time in terms of these themes for your life.

General Advice:

New developments and endeavors can happen early this summer but we need to be realistic about how we go about them while releasing what has held us back in these regards to this point.

Good luck!

Eclipse Report Sample!

Happy Eclipse Season!

www.myastrochris.com

Honoring Skeptics

2011-05-18T10:06:00.000-07:00

When you dabble in a practice that is considered to be on the 'fringe' relative to common or mainstream thinking you are bound to run into skeptics along the way. Astrology is certainly a fringe topic and it is an art/science that tends to attract some of the most sensitive souls into the grip of its siren song. Though I always have a way of coming off as though I am unfettered by a barrage of doubter energy, I am no exception to the trends toward sensitivity in those who practice and use astrology. Put simply, it affects me ( I have a Pisces Sun after all). But at the same time, there is something about feeling that barrage that gets my blood pumping and infuses me with a confidence (or maybe its arrogance) to respond with a solid argument.

If I try and respond in the heat of the moment, I can easily come off more arrogant and berating than I intend (Mercury in Aries). But when I actually take a minute to honor the value in the skeptic argument I can find the compassion to respond in a more conciliatory manner. I have to always remind myself that, I too, am a skeptic in many respects (Virgo Moon/AC) and that allowing healthy skepticism is actually what opens up the opportunities for those fringe ideas and topics to find there way into the common fray.

Below is a recent email that I received from a skeptic regarding my upcoming Relationship Astrology Workshop at Planet Earth Rising in Folsom, CA followed by my response to the email. I am glad I waited a day to respond and ensure that I honor her healthy skepticism. This is just an example of how someone who uses astrology can counter a common set of common assumptions regarding this ancient art/science. Enjoy!

Her Email:

"I’m on the e-mail list for Planet Earth Rising, so I get advertisements for classes all the time. Most of these I ignore because I’m not impressed with the presenters. To be blunt, I think they’re uneducated, superstitious people who are making up stuff because they don’t understand how the universe works. I was ready to delete your ad, until I read the part about how you have degrees in the sciences. Most scientists don’t believe in astrology. I’m wondering why you’re different. I’m intrigued. How is it that you don’t think astrology is superstitious nonsense for the simple minded?"

My Response:

"Sorry for not getting back to you sooner. I appreciate that you are opening your mind enough to discriminate what I am putting out there from what you usually encounter. The way I see it is that, people are not 'simple-minded' but people can approach situations with a 'simple mind'...i.e. black & white thinking. With regards to taking in new information there are two simple-minded approaches. One simple-minded approach is taking EVERY piece of information as truth while the other simple-minded approach is refusing EVERY piece of information as having any shread of truth. To me, both approaches lead a person away from their own personal truth.

My personal adages regarding any new information are to 'take the best & leave the rest' and 'never throw the baby out with the bathwater' and I start every presentation that I do with those statements. See this brief video below from a previous relationship workshop where I explain this:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OEmYH5U Xu64&feature=channel_video_title

Some of the presenters at Planet Earth Rising resonate with me while others do not resonate with me at all. But even with those who resonate with me, I don't take EVERYTHING that they say as truth. The point is, I believe we have our own truth and that following any whole truth of another person or group is just an example of 'dogma.' I also find that even the presenters that don't resonate with me can have SOME nuggets of wisdom and truth to offer me so I usually give people a chance and then filter as needed.

When you say that 'most scientists don't believe in astrology' I have to admit that the statement itself requires some clarification on two levels.

First, if you include scientists like Copernicus, Einstein, Newton, Galileo, Pythagorus, Jung, and other classic scientists that worked with astrology, then I am not sure if the word 'most' can be used with any scientific confidence. These scientists, as well as others, have utilized astrology and studied it quite extensively. Their other works have been accepted into modern times and is what made them 'famous' but it begs one to question why so many of our 'most intelligent' and 'scientific' forefathers would have bothered beyond an initial assessment if it was 'superstitious nonsense'. The reason is that, as bizarre as the 'concept' of astrology seems, scientifically speaking...there IS something to it! I really can't get into everything regarding this on an email as there is just too much information.

In terms of modern research, have you heard of the Gauquelin Sectors study? Here is a brief link to it (http://www.astrosoftware.com/gauq uelinsectors.htm). Here is also a good analogy for you from a previous recorded class where I compare our lack of understanding of astrology to our lack of understanding of gravity:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9zyaj2UCgPU&feature=related. And while its true that through modern media outlets, astrology is 'portrayed' as something that 'most scientists' don't 'believe' in, it isn't true that there aren't plenty of modern scientists who, while they don't understand 'how', cannot deny the results that they see with it.

Second, you use the word 'believe' in your statement which implies that those who work with astrology do so because they 'believe' in it and not because it works. To judge anything based on simple-minded 'belief' or simple-minded 'dis-belief' is the definition of 'unscientific'. Are you aware of the practice of astrology beyond using simple Sun-signs? I personally do not deal with astrology on such a simplistic level and refuse to feed people's false assumptions about just their sun-signs (i.e. I am Aries so I'm...). Here is a clip of me from January when I was invited on FOX 40 Live to field questions from Joe Orlando where I respond to a similar 'simple-minded' assumption about astrology: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=60mwAtU_rbI&feature=channel_video_title

Your question:

"How is it that you don’t think astrology is superstitious nonsense for the simple minded?"

My answer:

I don't think that astrology is 'superstitious nonsense for the simple minded' because I am not simple minded enough to take astrology at face value as something to either believe in or not believe in. I spent YEARS observing astrology in action because I was skeptical. And at some point (as is true with every scientific type that investigates it) I had to surrender to the fact that even though I don't completely understand it, it doesn't mean that it doesn't somehow work.

I am curious as to what your own personal research into astrology has yielded or whether you have completed any of your own research since you sound so confident in your assertion that astrology is superficial nonsense? Are you merely taking on the 'dogma' of what you have heard? :). That would be a pretty simple-minded approach to something for which you don't have any experience...no? :)...i'm teasing.

Sir Isaac Newton (i.e. Mr. Physics) may have said it best in regards to defending astrology when he said to the man for which Halley's Comet was named :

"Sir, I have studied it, you have not" - Sir Isaac Newton

Halley was questioning Newton's involvement with astrology at the time.

You are MORE than welcome to attend my relationship astrology workshop on Sun May 22 at Planet Earth (230-530p) as I enjoy introducing these concepts to those with skeptical (i.e. filtering) minds like my own. For a glimpse at other pieces of this workshop, please check out some of these videos on this playlist from a previously recorded workshop on the topic: http://www.youtube.com/user/myastrochris#grid/user/66212E6F300843C5

Regardless of what tool one is using (i.e. astrology or anything else), when you can gain a better understanding of your own unconscious drives and gain a better understanding of the higher meaning behind your current experiences, it can improve your life and ability to accept what is. THIS is why I value astrology. Getting over my own need to 'know' how it works just happens to be the hardest part.

I hope that helps!

Thanks for your feedback!"

-My Astro Chris

On The Spot: "Sudden Self-Awareness" - 5/17/2011

2011-05-17T15:09:00.000-07:00

On The Spot: "Refocusing the Laser Beam" - 5/4/2011

2011-05-04T14:44:00.000-07:00

On The Spot: "I Did It My Way" - 4/18/2011

2011-04-18T13:15:00.000-07:00

Interested?
www.myastrochris.com

On The Spot: "Finance & Speculation" - 4/5/2011

2011-04-05T15:32:00.000-07:00

Interested?
www.myastrochris.com

On The Spot: "Learning Right Action" - 3/21/2011

2011-03-21T18:36:00.000-07:00

Interested?
www.myastrochris.com

Mars in Pisces: A Personal Historical Profile

2011-03-17T08:31:00.000-07:00

With Mars in Pisces I can't help but get a little excited!

Historically these time periods have been very positive for me regarding transitioning from one 'style' of work/service to another in my life and in terms of building my self-confidence. Its almost like these time periods are 'transition portals' for me in relation to what I have to offer the world. The timing of this recent cycle (Feb 22-Apr 2, 2011) certainly coincides with what appears to be another of these kinds of transitions for me (I'll explain below).

Looking at my chart above, you can see that I have both my Sun and Mars in Pisces natally. Using the Placidus House system of astrology puts my natal Mars in the 6th house of work/service as well. In general then, my Mars Returns have coincided with major shifts in 6th house expressions of work and service.

Below is a brief historical profile of life events revolving around this theme for me over the last decade when Mars has been traveling through Pisces:

Jan 4- Feb 12, 2000 (age 20)

I had worked the previous 3 summers (97'-99') in my dad's factory doing hard manual labor. Over the 5 week winter break from college covering Jan 2000 I decided to work at that factory to make extra money. Looking forward to the summer of 2000 I decided then that I would do something different than manual labor on my next summer break. I ended up doing a summer internship at my college during the summer of 2000 where I got paid to sit in front of a computer for the first time. Because I was in the presence of search engines everyday and due to my curiosity/restlessness, this summer was also when I 'discovered' authentic astrology (beyond sun-signs) for the first time. Good thing I decided back in January not to work in the factory that summer! My shift over this period was from that of seeing myself as a provider of manual labor to someone who can provide value in the form of intellect.

Dec 8, 2001 - Jan 18, 2002 (age 22)

Even though now I am very confident speaking in front of groups, it wasn't always that way. I struggled with an unconscious belief that I had nothing good to say and nothing to offer/teach anyone. Its safe to say that I have since dissolved those beliefs ;). However, this time period over the winter of 01'/02' saw me transitioning from grad student to teaching assistant. Despite my trepidations about being a 'teacher' (i.e. someone with valuable intellectual knowledge to share), I taught undergrad students about global climate science starting in Jan 2002. I had never seen myself as a 'teacher' before that point and I discovered that I absolutely loved it! My shift over this period was from student who needs to learn to teacher who has valuable information to offer.

Jun 17 - Dec 16, 2003 (age 24)

This was an extra long period for Mars in Pisces since Mars retrograded in Pisces for a while in 2003. This was one of the absolute busiest times of my entire life to date. Over the summer of 2003, I was working full time as a Park Ranger at Lake Berryessa in Napa, CA while also working every free waking minute that I had finishing up my Masters Thesis at UC Davis. I was frantically trying to work and save money while also trying to complete my thesis because in Sep 03' I was moving to Santa Barbara to start a 2-yr full-time Masters program. The 2nd half of the Mars in Pisces period was experiencing the full intensity of the first semester of that program. This period was relentless for me. The Masters program in Santa Barbara focused on not only teaching knowledge but on 'professional development'. To this point, I was still pretty immature & insecure and didn't really see myself as respected enough to be considered a 'professional' at anything. In fact, over the summer of 2003 my careless drinking even got me in trouble with the law a bit. Oh well, live and learn. My shift over this period was literally about seeing myself as just a 'youth' or novice to someone that can be considered a 'professional' adult in their field. Perhaps accomplishing what I did over those 6 months gave me the inner proof of my own maturity and worthiness to be included in the adult world.

May 1 - Jun 12, 2005 (age 26)

I was finishing up my Masters program in Santa Barbara at this time and actively looking for my very first full-time job in the 'real' world. I interviewed for several positions and was offered a few jobs during this period. I chose one of them and started working there that following July. I was surprised and relieved at how smooth the transition was from full-time student to full-time worker for the first time in my life.

Apr 6 - May 15 (age 28)

This time period was as nerve wracking as it was exciting. The company that hired me back when Mars was in Pisces in 2005 decided to lay me off while Mars was in Pisces in 2007. At this time in 2007, I had a much stronger attachment to 'security' or perceived security than I do now. This layoff was a pretty scary moment for me. However, within 2 days I had two job offers...and for better paying jobs to boot! I quickly signed on with one of them and actually started working from home as a satellite office instead of going to an office to work. I would be working by myself and would represent the company in my area. Before being laid off by my previous employer, I had been trying to build a new sector of that company in the realm of bringing green building into the scheme of things and I had ambitions beyond my job description. This new position was not only working as a green building consultant but I was directing certain operations from my satellite position and managing projects. This time period was a transition from being just another cog in the wheel of a company to a person with an important and active role for a company. It also transitioned me from depending on co-workers to being independent since I had no co-workers now.

Mar 15 - Apr 22, 2009 (age 30)

I was technically 'unemployed' at this time since I had been laid off by the green building consulting company during the previous Nov 08'. But it was during this spring that I started earning 'regular money' as an independent consultant for the first time in my life. Before this, to me, money came from a 'job'. This was my first experience of receiving money for my services which included teaching (something I learned I could do during a past Mars in Pisces experience!) and being an 'expert' on green building certification which I learned about during my previous employment experience. I also decided to take myself more seriously as a 'professional' astrologer since I had been giving readings for some time by this point. It was during this period that I purchased my first website domain (www.myastrochris.com) and began building my website which I launched in June 09'. This period was a transition from being co-dependent on an employer to supply me with money to being independent and valuing my own services and offerings enough to 'sell' them and create wealth in the process.

Feb 22 - Apr 2, 2011 (age 31-32)

So this brings us to the recent period. What kind of transition and growth can I expect this time around with regards to my work/service in the world? My astrology business has certainly grown by leaps and bounds over the last 2 years. What kind of transitions can I expect in this realm? Also, as of right now, I am on the cusp of starting a new type of consulting that will involve 'commission-only' earnings. I have never relied solely on the 'success' of my own efforts before. Could this be the new challenge that breeds ever more confidence in myself to produce money through offering myself and trusting that myself is 'enough' to get by in the world? It seems like the time is ripe for me to take on a lesson that teaches me that I am all that I need to survive in the world and that what I have to offer is valuable enough to allow me to thrive. But we will just have to wait and see how this pans out ;).

Welcome back to Pisces, Mars! Glad to see you again!

-My Astro Chris

Universal Co-Creation Cycle: The Expansion of Truth & the Vulnerability of Exposure

2011-03-09T12:24:00.000-08:00

I fully expect dramatic breakthroughs this year, especially in science, medicine, & energy. The 'truth' in these areas will reach the masses in a way that will FORCE us to question the structures & authorities that keep them in place. Just like a snail outgrows its shell and has to find a more suitable shell despite the vulnerable journey involved, so too are we outgrowing our structures and having to find a new set of structures while experiencing the vulnerability of exposure until that occurs.

So what CAN we expect in 2011 during this Universal Co-Creation Cycle? With the rapid motion of Jupiter through the sign of Aries and the permanent entrance of Uranus in Aries over the first several months of 2011, 'speed' will be the operative word. 2010 may have felt like we were driving with the parking break on but 2011 will feel like our brakes are giving out as we roll down a steep hill...yikes! The only way to handle it is to surrender to the vulnerability of the unknown because trying to stop the rapid growth and change will be futile. Like a NASCAR driver, we can only hope to steer our vehicle in a desirable direction....although maybe not just to the left.

On a collective level, what we think of as 'mainstream' will be in a RAPID state of flux throughout the year. Expect breakthroughs in realms of medicine, metaphysics and other fringe topics. THIS is the year that the edges of the acceptable mainstream expand to include those fringe areas. By the end of 2011, the idea of 'healing' will be completely revamped.

For example, from July-November 2011, "The Run: Moving Natural Medicine Forward" will be spreading across the United States from San Francisco, CA to Bridgeport, CT. This event will be one of many opportunities for the 'truth' about medicine to be revealed which will inevitably lead to a collective sense of wanting to 'overthrow' the medicine industry to allow for true health to all. In my opinion, one of the reasons that Health Care Reform is stalled in America is because the new truth cannot be supported by those archaic structures. It has less to do with political ideologies and more to do with a sense that it is time to have a new system to honor the truth of medicine and health rather than trying to fit medicine into an existing model whether its for profit or whether it is run by the the government. I will have more specific things to say about this event as we approach the summer but again this is just one of MANY examples of what will be occurring through this Universal Co-Creation Cycle. - http://www.therun.org/about-the-run/run-itinerary/

On a personal level, if you used the purging opportunities of 2010 to your benefit you will find yourself ready for the excitement of the Universal Co-Creation Cycle in 2011 and more open to riding the waves. However, those who reacted to 2010 by holding even stronger to their old habits and patterns while refusing to change and release, will find 2011 a bit too much to take....like trying to run a marathon without training first.

By April, the aforementioned expansion & rapid developments of 2011 will be quite obvious and it will carry us through the rest of the year into 2012. The first wave of opening & truth occurs from March 9 - March 26. The period immediately following from March 27 - April 13 will be our first 'reality check point' period. Another period of conscious awakening will occur immediately following this period, and so on. It will be a wild ride for sure.

Below is a time line for this Universal Co-creation cycle where the 'Day' periods represent rapid increases in collective consciousness & the 'Night' periods represent period of application & 'reality sinking in' for those new awarenessness.

Universal Co-Creation Cycle - 18 days each

Key Start Dates for each of the 18-day segments
Day 1: 9-Mar-2011
Night 1: 27-Mar-2011
Day 2: 14-Apr-2011
Night 2: 2-May-2011
Day 3: 20-May-2011
Night 3: 7-Jun-2011
Day 4: 25-Jun-2011
Night 4: 13-Jul-2011
Day 5: 31-Jul-2011
Night 5: 18-Aug-2011
Day 6: 5-Sep-2011
Night 6: 23-Sep-2011
Day 7: 11-Oct-2011

Entire 16.4 Billion year calendar ends on 28-Oct-2011

We are the collective snail who is expanding too large for the existing structural shell. We must be brave and face the vulnerability of exposure as we leave our old shell and create a new set of structures that fit the realities we now know to be true. And there's no turning back.

Social eruptions like the one in Egypt are just the beginning of these kinds of overthrows. Just imagine the outrage when the world knows that something like 'energy' is actually FREE and can be utilized much more simply than our current fossil fuel based economic structures. Again, just another example of many.

Finally, the word 'Apocalypse' is actually a Greek word that translates to 'unveiling' in English. Popular culture assumes that this word portends to the end of times. But perhaps this idea of a pending 'apocalypse' was ALWAYS referring to a time when the truth will be unveiled for all, followed by a period of collapse of old structures and a massive readjustment. What an unfortunate misunderstanding! Just remember, the 'end' of the way it has been does not imply that new beginnings are not on the way.

This is occurring on both a collective as well as a personal level for all individuals. We are coming into ourselves...and into our own sacred truth. On personal level, my advice is:

Embrace your truth, have courage in the vulnerability of exposure, & be willing to adjust your sense of security around a new set of your own personal reality. Inevitably, as we change so will our relationships. Have the courage to release those that no longer fit or to adjust them to fit you. Just like our structures should be designed to harness and support our truth, so too must our relationships adjust to fit our personal truth and not the other way around. Saturn in Libra from 2010 through the end of 2012 reiterates this journey of restructuring our relationships to fit our truth.

Enjoy this wild ride! Also, attend one of my presentations on the Mayan Calendar or on Relationship Astrology for a better understanding of how to deal with these changes that are occurring. Or you can purchase a recording of one or both presentations at www.myastrochris.com!

Let me know if you have any questions. Thanks!

On The Spot: "Claiming Worthiness" - 3/8/2011

2011-03-08T13:53:00.000-08:00

On The Spot: "The Authority of Self" - 2/28/2011

2011-02-28T16:48:00.000-08:00

On The Spot: "Sharing Gifts" - 2/23/2011

2011-02-23T19:09:00.000-08:00

On The Spot: "Spring Forward" - 2/16/2011

2011-02-16T17:56:00.000-08:00

On The Spot: "Loving Adjustments" - 2/7/2011

2011-02-07T14:15:00.000-08:00

On The Spot: "Moving Toward Freedom" - 2/2/2011

2011-02-02T22:40:00.000-08:00

On The Spot: "Birthing Into Right Service" - 1/25/2011

2011-01-25T19:14:00.000-08:00

On The Spot: "Unleashing Hidden Talents" - 1/18/2011

2011-01-18T17:49:00.000-08:00

Interested?
www.myastrochris.com

Has My Zodiac Sign REALLY Changed?...No, not really

2011-01-15T11:55:00.000-08:00

For the umpteenth time, the constellation of Ophiuchus has been 'discovered' and thrown around the news as some proof that astrology no longer has any validity. But with modern tools like the internet, the latest supposed discovery of this well known constellation in mid-January 2011 has caused quite an uproar.

On the morning of January 14, 2011 I had the opportunity to answer questions for two separate media outlets in the Sacramento area. On my way out the door to do a TV interview for FOX 40 I received a phone call to answer some questions for a popular radio show regarding this very topic.

You can see the TV interview and listen to the radio interview below to see/hear my take on this latest round of attempted discrediting of astrology:

KTXL FOX 40 Live Sacramento- 1/14/2011
(4:59)

The Jamie White Show at 106.5 The Buzz in Sacramento - 1/14/2011
(13:31)

My 2011 Outlook on "Paranormal Connection"

2011-01-15T11:44:00.000-08:00

Christopher Taylor (My Astro Chris) joins host Danna Wilberg of "Paranormal Connection" to give his outlook and perspective on the year 2011. Christopher walks Danna through 2011 in terms of both, Astrology and in terms of the "Underworlds" calendar from the Mayan Calendar system. 2011 features rapid developments and breakthroughs in regards to science, technology, and medicine. Time is accelerating this year and Christopher helps make sense out of it all.

Air date: January 3, 2011

For more information, contact Christopher through his website below:

www.myastrochris.com

Enjoy!

Welcome Back to FREE "On The Spot" Readings!!

2011-01-04T16:07:00.000-08:00

Happy 2011! It's been a while but my FREE "On The Spot" readings are back! I will be doing brief (10-15 minute) chart interpretations once per week to anyone that is interested. Contact me now to get on my list for a FREE taste of the types of services that I offer. Confidentiality will be honored so your name is optional. Also, Yelp reviews will earn you a 25% discount on a comprehensive astrological analysis.

Check out the 3-minute welcome video below and let me know if you have any questions.

readings@myastrochris.com

Thanks!

Rev. Christopher Taylor

Solar Eclipse – 1/4/2011

2010-12-29T15:25:00.000-08:00

Its eclipse season again! This most recent round started off with the full moon lunar eclipse that peaked at approximately 3:15am EST on Tuesday, December 21. Now the follow up to this initial eclipse is the new moon solar eclipse which peaks at approximately 4:03am EST on Tuesday, January 4.

This particular solar eclipse occurs at 14° Capricorn and will be in a difficult square aspect to Saturn at 17° Libra. It will also be in a wide conjunction with both Mars and Pluto in Capricorn. Depending on where this lands in your own personal natal chart, this eclipse is likely to lead to the start of some type of new initiative that requires an inner transformation in order to move forward. With Saturn in a close square to this eclipse, any new endeavors will start slowly but with proper adjustment can lead to eventual success. Most of the required adjustments are of an inner nature as it is our own sense of disempowerment that must be dealt with before we can move forward.

The experiences of this nature would be felt within the domain of the astrological house that encompasses the location of this eclipse at 14° Capricorn. You would need to consult your own natal chart to find out where this position falls for you. For example, this point falls in my natal 4^th house which is the house covering home, family, emotions, and our ‘bottom line’. For me (and everyone else who has 14° Capricorn in their 4^th house) this could mark a new beginning related to a place of residence or to a new sense of inner fortitude. The square to Saturn, in this case, is from the 4^th house to the 1^st house of self, image, and personality. For me this could be a time where I am faced with some moral dilemmas and other difficult decisions possibly related to where I live but also, more importantly, related to how I live. I will be challenged to set some boundaries and stick to them while also releasing old boundaries that no longer serve their purpose. Sounds like fun.

In general, this eclipse also falls at the midpoint of the Venus/Neptune square which perfects within minutes of the eclipse itself. In fact, a Jupiter/Uranus conjunction, a Venus/Jupiter trine, and a Venus/Uranus trine all perfect within a few hours of the eclipse as well! There’s lots of planetary activity occurring early on the morning of January 4^th! These energies add some dynamics to the eclipse and promise that the growth we can experience now make the required patience worth it as long as we are realistic. This eclipse will have a way of ushering in the realities that we have refused to face up to this point.

The combination of the house location of the eclipse, its aspects to other current planets, and its aspects to the personal natal planets yields a very unique interpretation for each individual. For the best results in this case, find out where this solar eclipse and the other planets involved fall in your natal chart. Then find any planets or personal points in your natal chart that are also aspected by these configurations.

Location of Current Solar Eclipse Configurations

Solar Eclipse – Sun/Moon @ 14° Capricorn

Saturn – 17° Libra

Mars – 21° Capricorn

Pluto – 5° Capricorn

The effects of this eclipse may ripple out as long as a few months with initial conditions starting at or near the eclipse date (January 4, 2011).

General Advice:

New developments and endeavors can happen now but we need to be realistic about how we go about them. We also need to grow beyond our own inner sense of disempowerment if we are to experience our full empowerment and head toward our goals. Strength and courage are indicated so we are more likely to take a chance on things even if we know it will hurt.

Good luck!

Eclipse Report Sample! (now just $40!)

www.myastrochris.com

Happy Eclipse Season!

2011 (part I) – A Call for Freedom

2010-12-23T17:20:00.000-08:00

By Maurice Fernandez

www.mauricefernandez.com

Greetings Everyone!

2010 is almost over leaving most of us marked quite deeply by its tempestuous passage. Astrologically speaking, it was no surprise as it seems that whoever is behind the organization of planetary positions ensured that the blend of intensity would hurl everything into the mix including the kitchen sink and in high doses. Some of us managed to harness the strong forces at play in order to crack open patterns and access completely new ground while others were essentially ravaged by the elements; the majority of us ended up somewhere in the middle, having fluctuated between breakthroughs and breakdowns.

Looking back, 2010 was a year that propelled people forward whether by choice or by circumstance…the urge to “take the plunge” was compelling…some made the leap consciously, while others felt pushed into it. And yet, with this strong calling for change, many felt they were simultaneously held back and not able to go forward all the way; the future was calling, but the past—often unyielding and asking for its dues—left many in the twilight zone, sometimes trapped in frustration.

The series of events that manifested under the 2010 planetary cycle was surely shocking, and at times truly bizarre: perhaps symbolically, European airports, especially Heathrow, in England, reflected the bewilderment when repeatedly pounded by strikes, extreme weather conditions, or volcanic ash from the Eyjafjallajökull volcano that stalled all activities. On other shores, the series of Haitian plagues have almost become casual news, and the trauma of the Gulf spill remains deeply marked in our consciousness—along with new and controversial figures like Assange—a public outcry was fostered against the misuse of power by those in authority.

This intensity continues until the very last days of 2010 since a dramatic and tight lunar eclipse conjuncts December’s solstice point, generating a new wave of intensity throughout the month. When I wrote an article last year about the then coming year of 2010, I predicted that by the end of it, one’s life would not be the same; this seems to have held true: all around me I see the entire planet earth in transition, with the past left behind and not yet fully integrated into the future.

We step into 2011 in that state of transition, excited, bewildered, overwhelmed, and some of us completely renewed. Like previous articles of this kind, I will attempt to explain the planetary cycles ahead while keeping the language accessible to non-astrologers; basic terms will be utilized.

From a planetary standpoint, I would say that 2011 actually begins around January 20^th when the planet Jupiter moves into the sign of Aries. Jupiter will rush through the sign of Aries, remaining only 5 months in that sign until early June (unlike other Jupiter passages that typically last about a year in a sign). This accelerated motion seems to capture the character of the times ahead. The pace will be sped up, particularly during the first half of the year. We may envision the energy of Jupiter in Aries much like an uncompromising force: raw in its expression, and highly charged emotionally. There is a peak excitement, a surge of adrenaline, and a powerful eruption of creative energy; it is a birthing process, catapulting us into newness and action. A new phase of your life is now actively in the making!

This particular cycle receives considerable support from a series of other planets joining Jupiter in Aries, creating a climax, perhaps orgasmic, when by the April 2^nd new Moon, 7 planets (Eris included) will be aligned in this sign! It is not possible to remain still or indifferent under such a concentration of energy and the answer is to take action! People will be highly inspired to act, change, and follow their truth. This is not a time to succumb to anxiety or insecurities—it is about risk and action. The need for autonomy and breaking away from any form of external control will be tremendous…almost unstoppable.

Those who have a background in astrology will find it significant to pinpoint where the sign of Aries is located in their charts to identify the area of focus where this burst of change and creativity will be most active.

Along with the fiery energy of Aries, the nodal axis moves from Cancer/Capricorn into Gemini/Sagittarius by March—the good news about it is that compared to 2010, this shift is bound to infuse more lightness into the year as it fosters motion to help energy circulate more fluidly.

If (as I mentioned earlier) during 2010, people were caught between the future and the unyielding past, by the first quarter of 2011 the shackles will be severed and the motion focused primarily forward. This powerfully expressive and uncompromising energy awakens the primal self in people: the warrior, the creator, and the dissident. It is time for the instincts to lead rather than the mind, potentially bringing interesting developments: more protest and activism, new projects being launched, and leadership redefinition. It is going to be loud… At its worst, this form of release will unleash aggression, as repressed emotions may erupt destructively. The compelling need for independence may foster ruptures. At its best, it is a call for freedom—a myriad of seeds will be planted to eventually remodel all forms and structures of our lives. Along with the emergence of new life, the past will claim that debts be paid and require us to relinquish something. This may manifest as a difficult rupture and/or sacrifice for some.

Along with this fire raging in our soul and lighting up the skies, an equally unique manifestation occurs in early April: the planet Neptune moves temporarily into its own sign of Pisces, for the duration of 4 months only (April-August). Neptune will move decisively into Pisces by February 2012 for approximately 14 years.

In simple terms Neptune represents all that we cannot control—that which came before civilization and human intervention. Thus, as it travels through the sign of Pisces, humans will be in the hands of the greater elements, nature, and the infinite cosmos. With Neptune in Pisces, the limit is beyond what the mind conceives, higher than the sky, way past the horizon…but be warned: without inner centeredness and integrity as guiding principles, this vastness is a maze that may blur our senses, potentially generating false perceptions, and thus, disorientation and debilitation. Natural events of extreme nature are bound to continue affecting our existence. With Neptune in Pisces, nature has a stronger hand over civilization.

The deeper message is that the influence of Neptune through Pisces provides a larger context, a profound and more distant calling, or a more “religious” inspiration to the previously described influence of planets in Aries responsible for the surge of creativity. The sum of it all represents a wide open field where chaos and creation collide—a space for higher inspiration, adventure, risk, unexpected results, unrestrained expression, wildness, instability, magic, and self-dedication; the spirit wants not only to be freed, but to answer a deeper calling! While security in material realms will be fleeting, one may find clarity and strength in higher dedication. (For a full article written by Maurice Fernandez on Neptune in Pisces, read the forthcoming issue of The Mountain Astrologer magazine—July/August 2011 issue).

From July onward, the climate shifts and the concentrated planetary influences are more diluted. The new seeds planted during the first part of the year will pass through a “test of time,” and of all the new initiatives, only a few will manage to truly take root—credibility will be tested. Indeed, the second part of 2011 is mostly about grounding the energy and nourishing it. From a career standpoint, it will be time to assess what brings adequate remuneration out of the new projects. From a spiritual point of view, it is about integrating the vastness of higher inspiration and vision within the confines of time and space…while the spirit demands its freedom, it still needs to demonstrate substantial promise “down here!” Thus, excesses, far-fetched ideals, or visions too far ahead of their time will falter.

In simple terms, I strongly encourage you to utilize the energy of the first months of 2011, particularly from the end of January until the end of June, to step out of your comfort zone and advance your life. Despite economic strain and collective insecurities, it is a time to step out and conquer life. If you want to promote a new project, embark on a journey, or break free from unfulfilling life conditions, this will be a time to dismantle the shackles—this is your time! Do risk and be prepared for an acceleration of processes. Along with inspiration and highs, expect crashes too because this energy is volatile, and like riding an untamed horse, it will try to shake you off balance at times. However, with all the risks involved, this time is unique: truly, a portal to a new dimension of yourself.

You will be inspired to follow your truth in all autonomy and without compromise—this call for freedom can at times compromise cooperation. To avoid whimsical or merely reactive behavior, I emphasize again that actions must serve a greater context, not solely immediate personal needs.

Importantly, this energy can at times make you feel invincible and thus neglectful about self care. Lack of sleep, overstimulation of adrenals and energy crashes, or migraines are possible repercussions. It is best avoid caffeine during these months because you will be stimulated enough from stardust. Physical exercise will be tremendously helpful to provide an outlet for the internal buildup…the body will need to sweat and motion will bring inspiration, helping to circulate the flow.

Timeline:

January 20: Jupiter moves into Aries until June 4, 2011 – The freedom of spirit.

March 3: The Nodes move into Gemini/Sagittarius until August 2012 – Circulation and exchange.

March 12: Uranus moves into Aries until 2018 – Intelligent action to create a new future.

April 2 and 3: New Moon in Aries aligning 7 planets in the sign – Breaking away from the past.

March 4: Neptune moves into Pisces until August 6 2011 (and then from February 2012-2025) – Aligning our core with needs greater than our own.

June 6: Jupiter moves into Taurus – Integrating spirit into matter.

May we all have the courage to bring forth the best of ourselves: to heal, inspire, and create, while guided by heart. Allow the internal hero to emerge and do not wait to be rescued by another. Importantly, save yourselves from being self-righteousness …whatever truth you wish to bring forth, allow that truth to speak for itself with grace.

May love guide your way;

Maurice Fernandez

Total Lunar Eclipse – 12/21/2010

2010-12-20T10:57:00.001-08:00

Its eclipse season again! This next round starts off with the TOTAL full moon lunar eclipse that peaks at approximately 12:15am EST on Tuesday, December 21. This total lunar eclipse is also occurring on the winter solstice and in alignment with the galactic center making this a truly RARE event! There’s actually more in terms of a planetary ‘alignment’ going on for this winter solstice than there will be for the fabled December 21, 2012 winter solstice. Exciting! AND it will actually be visible (weather permitting) across most of the US!!

This current total lunar eclipse will peak at approximately 29° Gemini and it will be in conjunction with the south node of the moon. This represents a time of culmination, release, and filtering of energy. When we are open and flexible in the face of change, this can be a rewarding time where we experience the culmination of past efforts. If we have been creating against our best interests or if we have been keeping things under the surface, this may mark a stressful time of culmination with regards to the release of our secrets or the results of our less than stellar creations. The experiences of this nature would be felt within the domain of the astrological house that encompasses the location of this eclipse at 29° Gemini. You would need to consult your own natal chart to find out where this position falls for you.

For example, this point falls in my natal 10^th house which is the house covering career, reputation, achievement, and recognition. For me (and everyone else who has 29° Gemini in their 10^th house) this could mark a culmination and release related to career aims and my place in the world. This eclipse includes challenging aspects to Jupiter and Uranus in my 7^th house of partnership, cooperation, clients and marriage as well as challenging aspects to Pluto and Mercury in my 4^th house of home, security, emotions, and family. This may mark a time for me where I release some old ideas ingrained into me from childhood with regards to the career path I should take and in terms of what constitutes a worthy job. It’s fitting that I have a potential new business partnership venture that may ignite this week! This opportunity would also be well outside of my typical comfort zone for earning money. We will see!

In general, this eclipse falls within an opposition to Pluto and Mercury in Capricorn so this will intensify its effects. Also, for this particular eclipse, Jupiter and Uranus in Pisces are in challenging aspects so this will add some sense of surprise and change with any culmination that occurs allowing for new conditions to form quickly. Whatever this leads to for you, it may feel like a massive release and lightening of a load on your shoulders but only if you are willing to open to surprise adjustments. This may include a contract that rearranges your typical mode of operation.

Location of Current Total Lunar Eclipse Configurations

Lunar Eclipse - Moon @ 29° Gemini, Sun @ 29° Sagittarius

Uranus - 27° Pisces

Neptune - 26° Aquarius

Mercury - 26° Sagittarius

Jupiter - 25° Pisces

Pluto - 4° Capricorn

The effects of this eclipse could have been felt as early as mid-December 2010 and may be felt through the upcoming spring of 2011!

For information regarding how the effects of this and the next eclipse (Jan 4, 2011) may manifest in your life email me at: readings@myastrochris.com!

Happy Eclipse Season!!!