Tuesday, 8 August 2017

It's Full Moon Time Again!

Hael to you good folk!  Yes, it's that time of the month again when we experience this common phenomenon that is the full Moon.  To see this is when the sun and moon are at opposing positions in the sky - with the sun setting and the Moon rising.  The exact time of the full Moon varies depending on locality against Greenwich Mean Time (or Universal Time).  For those of us who study Astrology and Esoterica in general, the mood surrounding the full Moon will vary, and here is where we get into the murky waters of archetypes and how we're affected.

For this blog post, I speak as an astrologer.  The current full Moon we're going through is with the Sun in Leo and the Moon in Aquarius.  Now, depending on what is written about this phase - and by whom - full Moons are a special time for magical work.  This is true.  I use the lunar phases to good effect myself, although I like a general overview of what all the planets in our solar system are doing at any given time, especially against my natal chart!

My personal view about full Moons (and other phases for that matter) is what aspects are made against my chart, as archetypes.  I'm not saying that this is what the planets actually do to feel the way I do at various times. I have, however, learned to interpret them as a psychological roadmap to help me better understand what I'm doing and how I'm feeling at a given moment.

I'm writing this blog on the basis that people will do their own research on what the planets and houses mean, even if it's a basic understanding of it.  That's fine!  My purpose is not to explain such complex matters here as they are separate matters altogether.  What I do wish to write about is what's happening in relation to my chart.

To start with, the full Moon axis relates to my third and ninth houses.  I focused on the importance of communications, short travel and immediate community from my third house, as opposed to the importance of long distance travels, study, philosophy and spiritual ventures from my ninth house.  The Moon's aspects with my natal Neptune and Sun are brief, although it was long enough for any spell work I carried out to manifest - with both positive and negative forces to reckon with.

To explain what's already transpired, I have put it out to the local community how I would like the services of a house-sitter, allowing me those rare chances of going away and knowing that my house and pets are in safe hands.  I was also quite specific about the sort of person I wanted.  I have, to my great delight, met one lovely young lass who's keen to take it on when I need her, and I've also received positive responses from other interested folk.  What I also took into consideration is how I can either pay it forward or return the favour by helping those folk out when similar needs arise.  Effective communication at work already and a win-win situation all round. 

I'm also currently studying a bachelor of arts at my local university, heading towards a History major.  It allows me to expand and broaden my horizons in ways that I haven't considered before, and meeting others of like mind.  When I have felt stumped, I have been pointed in the right direction.  Likewise, I've also lent a hand to others who have felt the same way.  Have I mentioned how brilliant Astrology is, when we utilise its use in such a way?

Whatever else transpires in the long term is not what I foresee just yet, although I've certainly been given a nudge in the right direction.  Magic is a series of exchanges.  It's never about what we want for ourselves exclusively - the consequences are more far-reaching.  If we stop to consider how our actions and deeds affect others, a more positive result is sure to follow.  So, we may as well get it right from the outset.

For the established and novice astrologers alike, being aware of what can be achieved by doing this sort of spell-work can be very rewarding - even if what we want doesn't exactly go according to plan, because that's how life is.

And now for something completely different - to coin a Monty Python phrase.  Let's add some Numerology to the mix!  Today, as I write this, is the 8th August 2017.  To give a breakdown of these numbers is 8 + 8 for the day and month.  So far, we add to 16.  Then for the year, we add 2 + 0 + 1 + 7, which adds up to 10.  Now we add 16 + 10 = 26.  26 has to be broken down to a single figure to give us the final number with which we work today.  And the extremely lucky number so happens to be 8! 

There are already two 8s, representing the day and month.  The year's final number is 1.  For the purpose of this blog, I will explain these two numbers only at this point (2 and 7 will be explained later).  The number 8, in its positive, is the number of good fortune, solid business and other foundations, power and recognition.  In its negative, we see authoritarianism and exploitation of power, faulty business and other shonky foundations.  The planet Saturn is connected to the number 8, so how we utilise our power is very important.  This number has a three-fold quality in its intensity.

The number 1, in its positive, is the number of the go-getter, new beginnings, and an emphasis on solo projects manifesting.  It's expansive and giving.  Putting one's best foot forward and getting noticed are also of importance.  In its negative, we see egocentricity, a need to be seen and noticed at the expense of others.  Self-centredness at its worst, basically, so utilising this number wisely is also important.  The number 1 is associated with the Sun, which, interestingly, rules Leo - where the Sun is at this very moment!

To briefly touch on the other two numbers, we have the number 2, first of all.  Its connection to the Moon is of a watery element and is considered to be feminine against its masculine counterpart, the Sun. The number two is about partnerships, using one's intuition and nurturing in its positive.  The negative is neurosis and a withholding of affection and nourishment.  The Moon rules Cancer astrologically so we see this pull between fire and water as archetypes.

The final number is 7, and a magical number in its own right.  Although not particularly extrovert, its deep and thoughtful, compassionate in its positive.  The negatives are hypersensitivity and escapism.  Depending on whether the traditional or modern planets are used, Jupiter and Neptune are both assigned to the sign of Pisces.

To summarise, it's easy to get carried away by what's considered interesting information - especially when there's a New Age spin to it.  While I could be thrown in the same basket, I have done my level best to offer a more pragmatic explanation in regards to what I believe is happening with and around me at the moment.  Take the time to look more deeply in the ways of Occult and Magic.  Make up your own mind about what works for you.  If you feel that any writer hasn't sufficiently explained a matter to your satisfaction, take note of it.  It's called listening to your instincts.

Till next time, Wassail!


Sunday, 9 April 2017

Is It Time to Duck For Cover?

As I write this blog, on Sunday afternoon in Australia, four planets are in retrograde.   In order of speed:

Mercury
Mercury has entered its retrograde phase today for the next three weeks - starting at 4 degrees in Taurus - until 2nd May when it turns direct at 24 degrees in Aries.  Mercury retrogrades are generally seen to disrupt communications - either technical or oral - when conveyance goes haywire.  However, it's also a time for clear introspection, to plot your next move, devote time to study and maintain steady focus (ironically, I should also be doing this as part of my uni time. Will do after this).

As Mercury moves back into Aries, there may also be a need to avoid confrontations, because this is when one can put one's foot in their mouth, so to speak.  If you know your natal chart, you would understand how this transit plays out.

Venus
The next planet in retrograde is Venus, marking a six week cycle.  She began her retrograde on 4th March, at 13 degrees in Aries and - thankfully - turns direct at 26 degrees in Pisces on the 15th April.  Venus retrogrades only occur every 18 months or so, and for it to transpire in the fiery and passionate sign of Aries, past relationships may resurface for redress in a fireworks fashion.

This redress can play out in a number of ways, such as a lost love returned, or simply a remembrance of a past relationship, and why it didn't work out the preious time.  While there may be trauma and regret associated with such scenarios, there's also every chance of putting the past to rights, with the emphasis of moving forward.

Venus is also of the more artistic leaning so if there had been an inclination to take up such a pursuit which may otherwise have been put off, it allows one to perhaps seize on the chance to do so this time.  House placements in relation to planetary aspects are also an important clue to watch.

Jupiter
Jupiter began its four month retrograde on 6th February at 23 degrees in Libra, and this could be seen as the scales tipping the balance.  Jupiter is normally the forward thinker and mover, ever determined to reach the finishing line, without much thought in how he's getting there.  He would rely on others to work all that out for him.

Optimistic and exuberant, he can bounce, sometimes even fall down, only to pick himself up and dust off, ready for the next adventure.  In retrograde motion - until he turns direct once more on 9th June at 13 degrees - this optimism can actually be delusional, he needs to redress how diplomatic (or not!) he is.  Jupiter also presides over philosophy, long distance travel and the wayfarer's journey.  Ideology could well be called into question and positions of power exploited.

From a worldview, this is probably a political minefield, especially in relation to how the more radical attitudes are given far more credence than they actually deserve.  In this cardinal sign of interpersonal relationships, dangerous enemies can surface.  Again, placement and aspects must be taken into consideration.

And Finally... Old Father Time
I refer to Saturn, of course!   The final retrograde in Sagittarius, at 27 degrees, began on the 6th April.  Until he turns direct again at 21 degrees on 25th August - marking a four and a half month cycle - introspection of the karmic past could arise.  Metaphorically, this could be a shakeup of any foundations which were never solid in the first place. 

Saturn is the moody guy of the zodiac who likes a place for everything and everything in its place.  The workaholic, there may be issues with health if he doesn't take it easy.  It could also be a time to accept that what was once stable and sure in the past is not any longer.  It's in this sign that marriages could end, especially if this movement occurs in the 7th house. 

Saturn is also representative of the elder, so he is emphatic on imparting his well-earned wisdom on to us.  If we are rigid in our attitudes and would rather ignore what's going on around us, then we may get a kick up the proverbial!  Saturn brings change, important change.  Where have we been?  What have we learned from our journey and how can we change what no longer works?  Now is not the time for being passive and inactive.

To summarise
Four personal/interpersonal planets retrograde, at least for this coming week, anyway.  Retrogrades are significant markers that brings turning points in our lives.  Depending on how astute we are in being able to read this part of our road map - especially where there are bumps in the road - we can steer our way along, and come out better for it at the other side.

Till next time, Wassail!

Saturday, 4 February 2017

I'm Now Allowing Myself To...

Essentially, what I'm attempting to convey with this post is about allowing myself to live a completely different life to the one I have left behind.

I moved away from my family, friends and acquaintances, a community and other creature comforts to begin a brand new life down the coast - an area previously unknown to me apart from the odd holiday over the years.  I did this nine months ago now and I'm still adjusting.  What hasn't been helping me are the bites at opportunity for gainful self employment, without the follow through or momentum to keep it going, despite my best efforts to do so.

I also have been returning to my former home town to see my family and mind my granddaughter when I was needed.  I was also recalled to my former casual employ for a couple of days because of short staffing.  I worked, was happy to reacquaint myself with former work colleagues, spent time with the family and enjoyed the change.  In the back of my mind, though, something wasn't feeling right and I was already on to the inkling that I haven't felt grounded yet in my new life.  My old life was calling me back, but I realised that it was very temporary.  I travel with my dog when I stay with my family overnight, and even that has become problematic.  My dog is very lively and needs a steady activity of exercise and company, which I wasn't able to provide because I was at work for two full day.  He's also not a people dog and it didn't take long for his territorial nature to kick in, causing my daughter a good deal of stress, which wasn't intended.

When I drove home last night, I was very upset.  I was exhausted, and when I'm exhausted I think too much.  Then it occurred to me:  I am allowed to step back from my past life (to some extent) to do what I originally intended - start again!  I thought that I had allowed this to happen, until I realised that going back home every week or so was causing more pain and grief than it was to stay away.  I haven't had as much cleaning work over the summer as I would've liked, and it was because I was obliged elsewhere.  Now, those obligations are over, as my granddaughter is starting day care.  If I were honest with myself, the only reason I have seen my family is because I've been going up there to see them.  I had been afraid of letting my old life go, and while I'm still not over the line just yet, it's time to change my mindset.  I drove home with the desire of wanting to stay here, and set my own plans in motion.  It's been 24 years since I first became a mother and while that aspect of my life will never end, it is changing.  The only way I will ever feel grounded is to stay here more often and really plant my roots in the area.  Last night was the first night of solid sleep that I've had in a good while, which is a good sign already.

When I became a single mother back in 2002, I devoted most of my time in to raising my kids to be the best people they can be.  It was agreed that the kids and I would stay in the marital home until the youngest child turned 18.  So I did, at great cost to how my own life was going to unfold.  If I had my own way, I would've moved away while the kids were young, but I wanted to make life for them easy as possible, including regular access with their father.  I have now come to realise just how much my own life was put on hold while I was raising my kids.  I don't regret that for a moment, although I have been living through this terrible paradox which kept me rooted to the spot.  It's this paradox which held me back from living my life now.

It's important for me to make new friends, enjoy the lifestyle that the Bay and Basin area has to offer (and I have!), find gainful employment and earn a decent income, and become more involved in the wider community in whichever way I find it.  While I have made every effort to do all these things I have been pulled back to my past.  I have gone back there for redress, to acknowledge that the only constant in life is change, and I'm now allowed to think more for myself.  When once I have devoted my life for others, I got used to it.  Now, my family are grown and able to fend for themselves, and I have done my parental duty.  It's not selfish of me to live my own life now, even though I would've been thinking that deep down.  I can now give myself permission to move on, well and truly.  While I have no guarantee as to where my life is going to take me, I'm ready to make the change!

Till next time, Wassail!

Thursday, 12 January 2017

Cardinal Grand Cross

I read an article that a friend posted on facebook earlier today, in relation to this upcoming full moon and the grand cross in which it resides for a short period tonight AEDT.  Link added below:

Intuitive Astrology

After I originally read the article, I responded with this comment on the facebook page where it was posted.

"I'm going to add my two bob's to this because there is not enough information to explain just what a grand cross is, let alone the planets involved. Whoever writes these articles should always presume that there are others who don't know what is being alluded to, and therefore should explain even a little bit, enough for it to be understood.

There are three modalities in astrology, Cardinal (action), fixed (steadfast and rigid) and mutable (fluid and interchangeable). This cardinal (under the signs of Aries, Cancer, Libra and Capricorn) grand cross is not a time for sitting back and let anything or everything come to you. If anything, I detect a huge shakeup in relation to the planets involved, the planets being the Moon (emotive and receptive, in its own sign of Cancer), the sun (expansive and shining light in Capricorn), Jupiter (philosophy, spirituality, progression and travel in Libra) and the big usurper Uranus (subversive game changer, mover and shaker in Aries). The planets involved are giving us a push in the general direction of huge change, and if we relate this change to the planets involved, it will take the form of what is working for us in this regard, and what isn't. If we have reached an impasse that requires change, we're going to get it. Rather than be passive to the point when it can blow up in our faces because of our inaction, we can at least be prepared and armed with the knowledge of implementing our plans and goals, because this is what the cardinal signs are all about. Because the cross forms from 4 lots of 90 degree (square) angles and two 180 degree oppositions (divided in two), there is a certain element of friction to work through. That said, we are the centre point who would work it to our advantage.

Another point to be made about this grand cross is how it falls into every element of fire, earth, air and water. If we look at the magician card in the tarot for comparison, we can make magic with all the tools at our disposal."


I have gone back to this article, and although I stand by my original statement - because I'm the sort who wants things explained without following anything blindly - I do see a certain validity to keeping it simple, which is why I'm reserving judgement from this point onward.  

 Now, I wish to move away from the article altogether and put forward - as best as I'm able because I'm no expert - what I understand of this grand cross, and allow people to make up their own minds.

When we look at the full moon axis, there is an allowance of 10 degrees that I would give in its applying (approaching full) or separating (moving away from full) which allows for two days, depending on how fast the moon is moving.  So in terms of this grand cross (please refer to what I wrote above in purple italics), we have this general timeframe with which to work.   While the above notation has outlined the aspects, the houses in which the grand cross falls will vary in a natal chart and I hope to make more sense of, albeit briefly, as houses are still a work in progress for me.

The angular houses of the 1st (house of self and how we present to the world), 4th (home and environs, what nurtures or hurts us), 7th (personal relationships, marriage/divorce and public enemies) and 10th (public recognition, vocation and foundations) are about what's beginning generally.  The succedent houses of the 2nd (material wealth and status in our home), 5th (love affairs and creative pursuits), 8th (death of matters, assets acquired and divided, occult and magical application) and 11th (how we network with friends and acquaintances) are what's already stabilised.  The cadent houses of the 3rd (early home life, communication, education and short travel), 6th (health and work, critical thinking), 9th (philosophy, law, progress and long distance travel) and 12th (religion, prisons - physical or mental, hidden enemies - real or imagined - and secrets) are of change and movement.

More information on the houses Here

 According to my natal chart, the grand cross is forming with the moon in my 2nd (what I would like to make my home more comfortable and satisfying for me and my visitors), Jupiter in my 5th (perhaps a time for optimism in following my dreams with my creative pursuits that I've already laid in place), the Sun in my 8th (to shine a light on what must end and maybe in relation to what I will do for my full moon ritual tonight) and Uranus in my 11th (there would certainly be an opportunity for attracting more eccentric people with whom I can network, along with informative discussion that doesn't necessarily maintain the status quo!).

Once this grand cross has passed, there is also the long range forecast to consider for Jupiter and Uranus.  Jupiter takes approximately a year to pass through each sign and house, making a return to its original point in a natal chart every 12 years, while Uranus takes around seven years through each sign and house, making its return every 84 years.  So, if we focus on the sign and house that Jupiter and Uranus are currently in, there is a sense of how they can unfold for us over those periods of time.  

I'm not into predictive or mundane astrology by nature, but I'm willing to bet that this grand cross can bring about some very interesting times for the world at large. 


Food for thought, yes?  Until next time, Wassail!