The Eclipse Season ~~ January 2019

The year begins on a sombre tone, celebrations will be tamer and less elaborate than usual. There may be some how can ignore the Sun meeting up with Saturn from 1st to 3rd January, in fact indulging in excess is possibly only way to avoid it. So, those prone to extremes, may be more so, but overall most will have their eye on the year ahead, with the consideration of how to make it a productive and successful one.

It could be my own eyes, from my environment, but it seemed that 2018 was a particularly difficult year for most. Whether we can consider that to be a result of both Saturn and Pluto being in Capricorn, and the fact that Chiron in early Aries was having a little show down with Saturn for a large part of the year, it's hard to say. Maybe having 6 months of the year taken down by inner planet retrogrades; with Venus and Mars adding to Mercury's regular backward parade, also played a large part in slowing down progress and enjoyment for many.

{PS – if any of you really loved 2018 and had a great year, I would be very interested to hear about it – please do email me at: waxlobster@hotmail.com}

The first Eclipse of the year will be at 1:29am on Sunday 6th January – as always it will effect those with a birthday falling around this date the most, or those whose birthday is at the opposite end of the zodiac; around 8th July (give or take a couple of days either side). The is a New Moon eclipse and a partial Solar Eclipse (mostly visible in Russia) which signifies new beginnings.

This will be a very interesting year for those who have planets affected by 15'25º Capricorn, particularly those who begin their year at this time (if your birthday is around 6th January).

The Sun and Moon fall close to Saturn at 12º Capricorn and close enough to Pluto at 20º Capricorn, this is, in effect a taste of what is to come later, as these planets dancer closer together and then step apart once more. They don't actually meet up in the sky until year 2020 and it's fair to expect all manner of change when they do.

As this particular eclipse links up the chasm between them in the sky, there will be a sense of change in the air. A nice aspect to Neptune in Pisces softens the energy and gives a kind of ambitious flavour to the week. Although there is a feeling that fate and destiny are irrevocable forces, Neptune brings the potential for dreams, creativity and the imagination to provide an uplifting outlet. When WW2 broke Saturn and Pluto were in an exact aspect – a hard square – those who lived through this time will talk about how this time brought out the best in people though too.

In a world which has been racing into a materialistic, technological age, in which the rich and poor divide is once more becoming more pronounced, something does need to give. There are all manner of possible eventualities and ways that big changes are due over the next 2 years, but I think there is a sense of inevitability about the fact that they will occur.

The last time Saturn and Pluto met up in this manner; was in 1982 in Libra and I think it's fair to say that this marked the beginning of capitalism as we now know it. The start of 'the throwaway society' when things began to be made with less artistry and integrity, so that they could be more quickly replaced and profited upon. What kind of an era will be see the beginning of 2020? Well I shall look deeper into that later in the year, in the meantime know that the planets show change, but it's the people on the planet who dictate the kinds of change that will occur….

As an interesting side note, the last time Saturn and Pluto met up in the same sign; Capricorn, it was 1518. The treaty of London at this time created a peace union between all the countries in Europe and a promise to defend one another against attacks from other Empires! This time around we have Brexit….

{Do you feel like lots is going on in your life, even though you don't have a birthday at these times? Contact me for a reading. There is a lot going on in the sky, I can help guide you. A simple chart consulation via messenger or skype will cost just £1 per minute. Email me: waxlobster@hotmail.com or visit my page: www.facebook.com/waxyjo}

The second January eclipse takes place on Monday 21st January at 5:16am, with the Sun having moved into Aquarius the previous day, this eclipse falls at 0'51 Leo. So all of you Leos who are born on the first day of your sign (over the cusp from Cancer) will definitely feel this quite intensely!

On the plus side, energy will be high during this Full Moon. Venus and Jupiter will be having a jolly old time in Sagittarius, lifting spirits, encouraging the more upbeat and brighter side of life is appreciated. Jupiter is all about fun and laughter on the upside, and congenial, peacemaking Venus does tend to bring out this side in Jupiter, especially whilst traversing through the sign of Sagittarius which Jupiter rules and correlates to.

There is, however also a square to Mars in Aries in the mix here. Now if you wanted to do something daring, random and sporty, this is a great time to most enjoy such an activity. If though, you are in more restrained environment, hoping that disputes don't break out and tempers don't flare….well I'm afraid you'll need to wish hard. Mars is Aries is fast, reactive and armed with great energy and drive. Jupiter in Sagittarius, is over opinionated, zealous and can be quite combative. There is only so much Venus can mitigate with pleasantries when there is a Full Moon in the mix also.

This eclipse could bring about some explosive energy, Uranus about to leave Aries for the final time, may well wish to make it's mark through fire and intensity. It is at a square to the eclipse point and there is a potential for; natural disasters, uprisings and disputes on small and large scales to come about as a result of this eclipse.

It is important to note that eclipses can be activated for up to 6 months before and after their events. Planets touching on the areas in the sky where the eclipse falls at all time in coming months, could re-activate them. So, for this one in particular, when Mars makes a square to the 0'51 Leo point from 0'51 Taurus, we could find that all that I cited above is reactivated for a day or so. Sometimes the reactivation points are stronger, so 15th and 16th February 2019 could be dates to be cautious. Days to lie low, book in a massage, or cosy time this weekend perhaps.

Overall it is rather an intense beginning to the year. The New Year always begins with the Sun in Capricorn but this year, having the two heavy weights (Saturn and Pluto) traversing up and down, activating eclipses and hitting the personal planets makes it all a whole lot more intense.

For those of you who are ambitious and want to make waves in your career, there is a good potential in fact in these areas. Things are a little more rigid and conservative, but hard work is more notably rewarded at this time also.

Jupiter in Sagittarius suggests a more global approach at this time. Travel is not necessary for the world to connect up any more. New areas of commerce and different ways of trading are increasing in popularity and will continue trending when Uranus moves back into Taurus on 6th March 2019. Think outside the box, or if you're more like me ~~~burn the box!

Shalom and blessings~~~~ WaxyJo

Escapism in the natal chart ~how we have learned to see ‘addiction’

The study of ‘addiction’ is one which fascinates me, how much of it is habitual, or rebellion, is it really as heady and definitive as we are led to believe?

In the astrological chart, most will look to Neptune as the perpetrator of addictive tendencies, it’s often those with Neptune (or Pisces) in a prominent position natal (at birth) who will declare themselves to have ‘addictive personalities’. In my experience what this means is that they tend to experience difficulty in calling on ‘willpower’ which is deemed to be what is best utilised in the fight against dependency upon substances.

Pluto can also be interpreted to be linked to compulsive and more destructive behavioural patterns. Those people with a strong Pluto (or Scorpio) signature in their charts are likely to want to explore, embrace and be enveloped by the ‘darker’ or shadow side of the psyche.

On the other hand Saturn, the planet of control, structure and authoritative obedience, is far less likely to be found in the chart of ‘addicts’ or those who like to indulge. It is the planet which rules the concept and implementation of all which, ‘willpower’ is deemed to represent.

So, how about I turn the tables on these concepts and look a little more deeply into the actual mechanisms of that which causes compulsive behavioural characteristics?

I have noted that those who have Saturn and the desire to be ‘in control’ prominently featured in their personality, are often drawn to the intoxicating effects to alcohol. Having studied charts for many years I have noted that when drunk; the effect it has on most people, is that Saturn fails to function in the personality. So, to consider somebody with a very prominently placed Saturn, say touching up the more personal areas of a chart, these areas which are usually processed through a refined and fairly restricted filter, the alcohol effectively helps to liberate these parts of the psyche.

This can work in a destabilising manner, or a liberating manner, it will actually vary based upon other circumstances, but it's fair to say that there will be a 'freeing' effect in the particular area of the chart where Saturn is prominent. In a reverse motion, those who suffer from anxiety may find that this is pronounced in just the same area of the personality when the effect of alcohol wears off.

As always the key is in balance, a little bit of intoxication can uninhibit a very uptight personality in an extremely beneficial way. On the other hand, if taken to the extreme, built up stresses and tensions are liable to be released, so it's not a one fix cure.

Neptune, on the other hand, the planet which is said to 'rule' addiction and forms of escapism, may actually operate alone in its ability to be able to create an alternative reality. In a well-developed, creatively open personality, Neptune needs no encouragement to bring transcendental, visionary and expressive alternatives. Often somebody with a strongly placed Neptune will only turn towards mind-enhancement substances when they are actively suppressed, or pressured by outside forces. Therefore, in and of itself, Neptune does not indicate any proclivity towards the likelihood of the individual turning to alcohol or drugs as a 'crutch'. However, it is true that the more spiritual and uplifting sensations that Neptune can create are such that; once experienced in their vividity, never forgotten. On this basis, if any kind of drugs is used as an aid to reach these levels, the likelihood of wishing to do so again is high.

Those with a weaker placement of Neptune may very well be more inclined towards the externally created visionary experience, as they are less able to do so without assistant aids.

In many ways, those who use substances to remove the confines of Saturn are more likely to behave in a manner which resembles what is regarded to be 'addiction'. This is simply because Saturn is far more affiliated towards 'routine' and a lot of apparent dependency is connected to having a very predictable life. If I could tell you the amount of times I have been told that somebody finds it difficult to give up smoking, because of the, “cigarette after the meal,” or, “first thing in the morning,” or “with a drink at the pub.”

This is nothing to do with physical addiction, it is emotional dependence, based upon an apparently mundane view of their own lives and the need for something to appear to 'lift' oneself higher than ones usual state. I will also add, that when I (accidentally) gave up smoking I experienced no physical withdrawals whatsoever, and because I had chosen not to make associations between smoking and other activities, I found this was not a problem either. Of course this does lead to the question of whether physical withdrawal symptoms are mentally created, in some cases, on the basis of expectation and mental programming. Smoking itself does not link particularly to any planetary signature, it links simply to emotional suppression and that is more of a cultural (or anti-cultural) issue, from what I have observed.

Now a lot of people will find that no matter what the signature of their natal chart, a trigger from the currently movement of the planets will exacerbate or rebalance habitual behaviour. In this situation, where Neptune links to the personal planets, there can be a problem with sudden dependency upon external mind-altering substances (or indeed, an enhancement in the sensory experience of one's life). This is where most of the issues come in, and actually, even more so with Pluto transits.

Pluto tends to link itself to extremes and a desire to uncover the deepest, darkest, depths of the psyche. Strongly placed in a natal chart, we see people with a gift for analysis, psychological profiling, psychic/intuitive ability and problem solving. A person with a lot of Pluto/Scorpio will often want to try every drug available; not because they are liable to become addicted, but because their need to explore and understand everything; especially the more taboo areas, is profound. This actually doesn't lead to addictive-type behaviour, simple because this would interfere with the mission to discover in other areas.

On the contrary however, Pluto aspecting a chart which is not so well connected with this natally, is the most dangerous indicator of extreme and life-threatening behavioural changes. It is a given that Pluto will bring the darkest and most intense upheavals to an individual affected by this small outer planet. For those who are less comfortable with uncovering dark truths, this can be a devastating experience; one which tends to leave us wiser, more enlightened, and freer, but during can bring us to our knees. In terms of becoming dependent upon substances or a mind-altering variety, this is the worst time in which to indulge, as they will provide a temporary release, followed by a more profound sense of alarm in many cases.

So, the summarise, the kind of charts I observe to tend to turn to mind altering and alcohol dependency on a very regular basis often feature very prominent Saturns. Mostly because society in the West is restrictive to the point of overload for those who are already naturally conscientious. Those charts which feature strong Neptunes will often use escapist measures, but are less likely to become addicted, unless in an environment which calls for unnatural levels of prescience (i.e. the music industry, and other performing roles; where alertness is required against the odds).

Charts with strong Plutos will use substances to empathise and explore other mental states.

Pluto aspects can create a likelihood of a more dangerous desire to uncover the darkness and deepest levels of addiction. Saturn transits will require an escape outlet and Neptune transits will provide a temporarily heady and explorative existence, but one which will often rebalance after the occasion.

For those who are born with personal aspects between Saturn and Neptune or Saturn and Pluto, a more complex signature has to be acknowledged, but one which I am loathe to cover on a general basis.

If you would like to learn more about your own personal chart and how addiction and/or escapist tendencies are marked. Or, if you would like some assistance with rebalancing a life which is dependent upon certain substances, then do contact me for a reading.

I can do a specific analysis on the subject for just £30, whether via IM, in a report format, or face to face. Contact me at: waxlobster@hotmail.com

And for more details follow my new facebook page at: https://www.facebook.com/waxyjo/

Forecast; Jan-March 2018 for Aries, Taurus, Gemini & Cancer

Aries Sun (applies to Aries Rising also)
January to March 2018 –

The year has begun at a high level frequency featuring ruling planet Mars marching hand in hand the most energising fellow planet; Jupiter. Working from the sun sign perspective this influence falls in the solar 8th House which puts an emphasis on shared resources, intimacy and intuitive connections. Unhealed sorrows could be fuelled by this influence; strengthened by the link up occurring in Scorpio.

Further into January, work takes centre-stage as Saturn, now in its own sign of Capricorn, reminds you that whilst you will reap what you sew, it’s only germination time. This is an ideas and initiation time; best suited to beginning new projects. Success will not yet be earned without time, effort and adequate planning. Of course, as humans, we tend to appreciate that for which we have toiled and so whilst this could be the start of a busy 2.5 years of Saturn in Capricorn, it could also be an excellent time to assert oneself career wise and status wise. Get grafting!

Ruling planet Mars moves into Sagittarius at the end of January, where it will remain until mid-March. Thoughts will move towards overseas trips, higher learning and even utilisation of ones’ knowledge for teaching others. Energies will be low mid from 15th to 21st February and this could be a good time for a trip to the sea, or indulging oneself in a spa get away. When Mars and Neptune meet up clarity can be difficult to come by, but relaxation is a breeze, especially when involving creative activity and/or water.

March as a month will be hit and miss; as random ups and downs, interlaced with coincidence and changes in fortune reign, alongside emotional upheavals. Uranus has been moving through your sign of Aries for a few years now and those of you born towards the end of the sign (14th to 21st March) will be feeling this more unpredictable undercurrent affecting your lives more now. Uranus brings great change wherever it falls, and as the planet of revolution and change it can indicate great personal changes when it links up with your Sun. Depending upon where this falls in your personal chart this can also indicate a change in external circumstance also. With Mars throwing a trine to Uranus on the 10th March will add to this, a good way to utilise all that is Uranus.

However the additional square to Chiron the following day brings sorrows, insecurity and emotional outbursts. The best way to work with Chiron is not separate the self from others, rather to recognise that we are all vulnerable, flawed and sad at times and times such as these that remind us to stay compassionate and connected.

The Month ends with Mars in Capricorn from the 18th and this will bring great energy resources. Mars is exalted (performs at its best) in Capricorn and if you want to get a lot done, this is the time to do so. With Mercury turning retrograde on 21st March, planning is the practical choice until mid-April where you have a clear 4 weeks in which to implement all of your best laid plans! This will be a very productive Spring for Aries, but a note to those born in early Aries that the stresses of Saturn in Capricorn throwing a difficult angle to your Sun cannot be ignored. You will have to work harder to prove yourself, but knowledge really *is* power and the key to Saturn is to be conscientious, studious and to allow these qualities to reign whilst they must. All will bear fruit in the long run.

To add in a note to Juno (as promised), this purposeful little asteroid will be moving though Aquarius throughout January and February bringing great social times and some convivial meet-ups with friends. As it steps into Pisces for March this will be a good time to be more aware of ones intuitive connections with others and to look at the unseen communications that occur every day without us even noticing mostly. You know how when you suddenly stare at somebody they almost always turn and look at you? Imagine how much we could use this kind of energy emitting from our eyes and aura if we actually honed it? Test it out a little this March, see if it works for you.

{if you’d like to hear more about Uranus in Aries and how it is and has affected your life over the last few years, then do contact me for a reading: waxlobster@hotmail.com}



Taurus Sun (also applies to Taurus Rising)
January to March 2018 –

For Taurus the high octane start to 2018; with Mars and Jupiter the most energetic and expressive planets linked up together in Scorpio, emphasises the partnerships area of your chart. It is worth noting that your personal chart will differ, but from a perspective of simply considering your Sun Sign of Taurus, this denotes a very upbeat, jovial and passionate period between yourself and those closest to you.

As we look forwards to the rest of January, I will look to Juno; the asteroid I am experimentally using as the ruler of Taurus. You will have been told that Taurus is ruled by Venus in the past, but have you noticed this doesn’t quite describe you correctly? Juno relates to enduring love, the kind of earthy grounded devotion which is required for a relationship to last the distance. On this basis, Juno is also about physical nourishment (nutrition and health, and the unconditional self-sacrifice required for true compromise. Over the years there have been many articles based around Juno denoting how one actually loves, (as opposed to Venus – what one looks for aesthetically and Mars- what draws us passionately) Juno is supposed to be about the ingredients required for real, earthy, human based love. Where Juno falls in your chart tells all about what kind of a mate you are actually compatible with, as opposed to the more superficial notion of having ‘a type’.

So on this note I am using Juno as the new ruler of Taurus, having noted how powerfully important the position of this asteroid is in synastry (the astrological study of compatibility between two people’s charts in relationship to one another).

Juno begins 2018 in Aquarius, where it remains until 23rd February. This is the career house from the Taurus Sun perspective and so will feel in effect as if you are, ‘married to your job’ at the beginning of the year. Your commitment to your work will be tested at the beginning of the year, this can apply equally to parenthood for those of you with children. In effect the career house ‘how one is seen in the world’, relates very much to how children view their parents; as for dependants their parents or guardians are, in effect, their world. So equally if your ‘job’ is to be a parent, this will be the main focus of the first 6 weeks of 2018.

The social sphere will take off after the 23rd February as there are more community event and friend get-togethers. Responsibilities have eased off a little and this lighter note will be effect throughout March also, removing a little of the tension from work and bringing a sense of social and environmental conscientiousness to the fore.

A main event to note also is that Saturn moved into Capricorn at the end of December, of note to us all, as Saturn rules Capricorn and will be suitably judicious during it 2.5 year sojourn. This puts an emphasis on studies and travel, though not for pleasure. Saturn is all about gravitas and responsibility, and so whilst thoughts towards higher learning may be of interest, the purpose of study and even travel choices, will be part of a longer term plan, rather than pleasure.

It can also be that expertise you have amassed in any areas over the years could be utilised more effectively during Saturn’s time in Capricorn. If you’ve been considering doing a TEFAL course, or looking into overseas conservation issues now is the time to begin, especially during February and March for the latter.

Uranus is still sitting tight in Aries until May and this may feel as if you have little control on the outer events of your life. Tranquil time is key, we are creating more than we know, but there’s a part of us which is always aware. Tune into this and the world can be your oyster this year!

{If you would like to know more about how Juno affects you and where it falls in your natal chart, contact me at: waxlobster@hotmail.com}



Gemini Sun (also applies to Gemini Rising)
January to March 2018 –

Your ruling planet, Mercury begins the year in your opposite sign of Sagittarius. From a sun sign perspective (your personal chart is likely to be different) this is the house ruling partnership and close associates, so there should be good levels of communication to begin the year.

The Mars-Jupiter conjunction in Scorpio which occurred during week 1 was in your 6th House, so focus around day to day domestic duties may have stolen the focus. It’s always a good time of year to think about feng shui, in the aftermath of the most consumerist time of year, bought into by so many, clutter can be a very basic side-effect. The basis of feng shui is entirely logical, we all know that if we are sat with our back to the door there is a slightly uncomfortable feeling when the door opens behind us. Or there is that untidy person who leaves their bag to trip over in the hallway. We all need basic order in our homes with natural light, air clearing plants and natural energy flow from space to space. Gemini is one of the more scatter brained signs and can certainly benefit from a little bit of thought around this area and that of domestic finances and overall health.

Mercury moves into Capricorn on 12th January, linking up with Saturn over the weekend further the practical mindset. This is a time to go out celebrating, Saturn is about structure, planning and establishing oneself in life. Saturn moved into its home sign of Capricorn at the end of December and will remain there for the next 2.5 years, this coming weekend will bring the first psychological acknowledgement of the switch between relationship issues and the practical side of sharing life, resources and energetic space with another. Saturn will be in your solar 8th House for this period (very likely this will be a different place in your personal chart) and will be bringing responsibilities to the fore in the area of planned finances (i.e. pensions, insurance and formal arrangements) as there is always the consideration of loss and fear of change when Saturn associates with this area of the chart. The message of Saturn is, “the more you plan; the less there is to fear” and also, “the harder you work; the greater the reward.”

Mercury moves into Aquarius neatly on the 1st February, gaining speed on Venus, already in Aquarius. These two are going to be moving closer together throughout the month bringing more charisma and creativity to us all. You’ll be in good spirits and the end of last year was a stressful one for Geminis (with Mercury retrograde conjunct Saturn throughout November and December). The raincloud has finally dissipated and it’s time for a bit of relaxation!

Later in February (from 18th) is the perfect time to book a holiday, Mercury will still be hurtling through the zodiac with Venus at the helm. Mercury and Venus are such a congenial pair, and together in Pisces the end of February will be very uplifting. It’s a creative, imaginative and inspiring time, excellent for those who seek romance, so simply wish to bring a little more love and kindness into every day life.

It’s a short trip before Mercury moves into Aries on the 7th March, but long enough for a decent holiday. The rest of March will be more about work and responsibilities and energies will be high (except around the 8th & 9th which will could be quite stressful and any recent mistakes made will come under scrutiny). Uranus has been in your career house now for a few years and this period is set to end in May 2018, so if you do want to bring forth any big changes in situ the end of March will be the time to beginning planning them (although they should be initiated until mid April).

You may be aware that your ruling planet goes into retrograde motion 3 times a year? The 23rd March marks the next period, and is the reflective time. As a Gemini you have a keen, quick intellect, and are not prone to revising or sense-checking your choices. Hence, these Mercury retrograde periods are set aside to ensure that you do spend the time reviewing and refining all that has occurred during the previous 3 months. It may seem frustrating and dull to do so, but without a little introspection and consideration our progress could never be properly directed or appreciated..

{If you would like a deeper view into your personal astrological chart then email me at: waxlobster@hotmail.com}



Cancer Sun (also applies to Cancer Rising)
January to March 2018 –

As mentioned for the other signs there was quite an energetic start to the year with the most expressive fiery planets; Mars and Jupiter meeting up in Scorpio. This was a harmonious energy from one water sign to another and so hopefully your year got off to a very positive beginning.

Currently brought back down to earth this week by the Sun and Venus both lingering around Saturn which has recently moved into Capricorn your opposite sign.

You may well find that your natal chart does not show this as your 7th House (unless you have Cancer Rising) however as this is written from the perspective of the Sun sign the area of your chart currently under the spotlight is that of partnerships. Saturn entered Capricorn, the sign it rules, at the end of December and will remain here for the next 2.5 years bringing a serious tone to relationships. Those of you already in a long term relationship will be considering formalising this, and for those of you who aren’t you will likely be looking for a partner with whom you can settle down.

Saturn isn’t in any way romantic or whimsical, so the considerations will have a practical and financial concern. The New Moon on 19th January at 28 Capricorn further emphasises this point, although as it forms a harsh angle to Uranus which doesn’t bode well for formalised plans, in the fact the contrary could be the case and it’s possible some Cancerians will terminate less fulfilling relationships at this point, or indeed find that their partner decides they want out!

The Lunar Eclipse on 31st January will fall in Leo and, as always with eclipses, will be powerful. Especially for those who have a personal planet at around 11 Leo. On a general note this falls in the 2nd House for the Cancer Sun sign. The 2nd House is concerned with how we primarily relate the physical world, and so it rules feelings, sensory perceptions, and all that we own. Possessions and finances are involved with this house and there could be changes in this area of your life around this time. Perhaps you will decide to divide up resources, or changes your income stream, refurbish your home, or start looking after your body in a more nourishing way. Whilst this all sounds positive, do note that eclipses are to do with endings. There could be some need to let go of something or someone in your life around this time.

This is followed up by the partial solar eclipse on 15th February in Aquarius, which probably won’t create the most romantic backdrop for this years’ Valentine’s Day (although since this day always puzzlingly falls in one of the least romantic signs of the zodiac, this is frequently the case!). Again there is a sense of letting go and in some ways a connection to finances. Look within. Have you outgrown certain areas of your life? Is it time to move on, or declutter your life (physically or metaphorically)? Cancerians are known for being adverse to change, but in life we often find it a whole lot easier to follow choices that we have made ourselves, than those that are forced upon us.

There is a supportive backdrop with Jupiter remaining in Scorpio mid-late Summer and Neptune moving through Pisces, both very sympathetic fellow water signs. Uranus in Aries has brought a little chaos of late but soon (May 2018) that too will be moving into a sign that resonates more easily with your own.

Later born Cancerians will find this a more complex period with both Uranus and Pluto causing consternation and confusion on many levels, early Cancerians will be feeling the force of Saturn opposing your Sun and the hard work and pressure which are inevitable; whether due to successful endeavours, or due to having to make up for times where you have previously lacked initiative and application.

For March the full Moon at the beginning on the 2nd will bring a more harmonious and relaxed energy, as you find yourself feeling more connected to your surroundings and more interested in connecting and communicating with friends.

If you need to get away then the New Moon in 17th March in your 9th House of travel and further learning bodes well. Note that with Mercury retrograde at this time extra planning and attention may be required, but so long as you double-check everything this shouldn’t be too much of an issue and this year has not begun as simply as you hoped. Maybe mark the Spring Solstice on 21st March as your new start instead, as Mars bringing fresh energy into Capricorn gives you drive and pizazz you have been waiting for.

{if you would like to know more about how Saturn and Pluto in your opposite sign are affecting you, email me at: waxlobster@hotmail.com}

New Moon in Sagittarius ~Tuesday 29th November ~12:18pm (UK time)

This new Moon at 7º42 Sagittarius links back into the theme that 2016 has emphasised so well of, delusions and how they manifest.

As mentioned in so many recent articles, there been a real push/pull between the rather incompatible planets of Saturn and Neptune for the last year or so. Where Saturn stands for all that structured, planned, focussed, and responsible, Neptune is about dreams, imagination and all that flows and cannot be grasped. With these two being so prominent this year, there has been a lot of unexpected twists and turns; lies and deception; creative highs, followed by crushing confinements. The only way to understand and work with Saturn is to assess ones place in life and whether the actions you take in the physically structured world are in keeping with what you wish to achieve. Whereas with Neptune clarity can only exist on a deeper, amorphous, inner level. If indeed clarity is indeed possible for more than a snapshot at a time, but therein lies the beauty. Where Saturn is all about planning, Neptune can only be found in the moment and grasped in a lingering assimilation of sensory perception (extra or ordinarily speaking).

This story which has created much of the confusion and turmoil of 2016, is changing, Saturn and Neptune are no long in speaking distance in an astrological sense. However, humans have a tendency to perpetuate and replay what they fear or dislike the most. Where a cat can find a spot of sunlight and dissolve into existential bliss, a human being, if they even stop to appreciate the spot, will still stage their soliloquy sifting through imaginary scenarios, of seemingly unsolvable conundrums – that have not even happened yet!


So, this New Moon which falls so close to the location of Saturn at the last point in its square to Neptune, and re-triggers lingering Neptune, is about stepping into a new paradigm; walking away from unwanted delusions and taking a chance to live the dream.
 
Sometimes I come across articles which try to surmise what they assess to be 'human nature', based upon studies of previous attitudes and behaviour. My view is the opposite; live as if you are a new species, create your own version of reality. It amazes me that psychological teaching is still based upon the pent up projections of Sigmund Freud, who, in fact, did live in a society which was based upon suppression of natural desires (and so his observations did have contextual validity when written). Obviously, there are limitations to what humans are and can be, and there are basic needs which seem to resonate within us all; like the need for love, acceptance, connectivity and community. What I don't believe is our nature is 'greed', 'self-sabotage', 'competition', 'judgement' 'desire for power'. Sure these are all behaviours which have been observed in humans for centuries and they have become major players in the structure of society as we know it. They are learned environmental responses however, and anything which can be learned, can be unlearned. Our education system is based upon the worst of human history, and encourage the kids to prepare their natures to interact with this. I read a lovely quote last week, something like; “don't teach your children to be the kind of people who can deal with the harshness of society, teach them to be sort of the people who will change this.”

Magic allows for more magic. In a scientific world belief in the intangible is frowned up; if there is no evidence or proof then it cannot, and never will exist. These same people who recognise the beauty of genius' like Einstein, fear new ideas and you can be sure they never can see the irony in this! Neptune is all about allowing for magic to manifest, in an unmeasured, non-material and sometimes intangible way. Neptune is the dandelion clock; appearing from nowhere with it's ephemeral blossoms, flying through the air, dissipating, leaving behind the paling pin cushion, framed with brachts like a fading Roman sun god. Magic and beauty are everywhere in immeasurable, unquantifiable bursts of nature. One should never forget the romance of nature, or become so removed that it no longer serves as an inspiration.


A lot of fellow astrologers observe Neptune's dark side to about deception and lies. It's something to be acknowledged, as it most certainly can be the case. The point here is to never expect another to be your source of inspiration, there has to be a deeper connection to all that is for Neptune to be enjoyed. If the fairytales that Neptune so joyfully depicts start to gather cast members, or definitives, then the lower side of Neptune becomes inevitable. Where there is expectation there is disappointment, and where somebody is pressured to be or act in any way, they rebel and break free. This is no ivory tower, the walls are that of a waterfall; differing in each second, with varying hues and refraction. We are drawn to the water walls for their beauty and endless fascination, no structure can exist in such a place and it is only perception which allows for continued appreciation.


The butterfly will die in a closed fist.

Saturn has moved forward a little now and makes an harmonious aspect with the planet of revolution and freedom; Uranus. Different as they are, they do have a negotiating term and in many ways work well together. Uranus only wants to destroy that which is unjust, and Saturn whilst it cares less about fairness and more about propriety, is often willing to work with Uranus in this regard. A spark of Uranus-style inventive genius can only be turned into something real with the help of Saturn. So these next two weeks are a good time to develop great ideas, or to add a little creativity to the mundane. As Mars moves through Aquarius, it will reach the midpoint also and bring energy, vitality and enthusiasm wherever there is insightful, intelligent thought. If you have a great idea, patent it, or look at working at the foundations required to develop it.

In many ways this is a dispassionate, time of imagination and escapism, mixed with ideas and industriousness. The Venus-Pluto conjunction has moved on, and so has the heavy energy which pervaded as a result.

New Moons are always a great time to start something new, if you choose to do so with this one, then allow the inspiration of all that is inexplicable be the root of all that transpires for you this week.

If you want to a little inspiration and new moon enthusiasm from me, then I can do you a little New Moon reading and talk about what's coming for you in 2017. Starting from £20 for one question, or £50 for three questions focussing on particularly areas of your life.

 Peace and love to all~~~~

New Moon eclipse at 9’21° Virgo - Thursday 1st September

This Autumn’s lunar eclipse takes place at 10:03am on Thursday 1st September (time accurate in the UK). This is a very intense configuration occurring at 9’21° Virgo, closely squaring Saturn at 10’04° Sagittarius and opposing Neptune at 10’39° Pisces.

In fact it is one of the most auspicious astrological events of the year; capitulating the background feature of Saturn square Neptune which has been causing confusion, chaos and political unrest in so many parts of the world recently.

This area of the mutable signs (which are Gemini, Virgo, Sagittarius & Pisces) has been under the spotlight considerably in recent times. Whilst Saturn glided over this point during mid-December 2015 it has remained static at the 10th degree of Sagittarius for the entire month of August, with Mars hanging around closely exacerbating and causing a rather frustrated and tense energy during the last two weeks.

Interestingly, when Mars turned retrograde earlier this year on 23rd April, it was also at this point of Sagittarius that it stationed and began it's apparent backward motion. There is an incredible emphasis being placed in this area of the sky and with an eclipse triggering all of the energy which has been so concentrated for the past 9 months; change is being forced indelibly upon us.

On a personal note, whilst I retain a rather blasé and yielding attitude to planetary motion on the whole, I am find this frenetic dance upon my personal Neptune placement, rather disconcerting and unsettling. Those of you who have any planets between 7-11 degrees of the mutable signs, will I’m sure be feeling a similar intensity (whether you are aware of a planetary placement here or not!) For those of you born close to either; 28th February, 30th May, 1st September or 1st December your Sun is in the mix and I’m sure you’ve had a suitably strange and complex year so far. I would love to say that this is now over, but the changes heralded by an eclipse can actually be felt a few months before and after the actual date of the event. In this case most notably so, due to the triggers being outer and slower moving planets.

It is difficult to know what to expect with an eclipse. I would tend to look at the area of the chart it falls in, and then where the affected planets interact with and which house(s) they rule. This will provide a great insight into where impacts will be felt and in the case of this eclipse the positions of Saturn-Mars in Sagittarius and Neptune in Pisces are very relevant to any investigative approaches also.

To look further into the chart of the eclipse itself, I see that we have 17° Libra Rising with the ruler; Venus sat covertly in the 12th house, but congenially close to Jupiter and Mercury, which turned retrograde at around 2pm on Tuesday 30th August (and will remain so until Thursday 22nd September). The 12th house placements here seem to add to suppressive tendencies which the Saturn-Mars conjunction has been bringing to us for the past 2-3 weeks already. It's a case of 'better the devil you know' as many of us will avoid risks, overt honesty and frankness in favour of saying nothing at all. This of course creates its own problems as, whilst it may seem as if nothing you can do/say/bring to the table is right at the moment, lack of expression doesn't actually change the energy permeating from you to those around you. Actions speak louder than words and in many cases, thoughts illustrate feelings more powerfully than when open communication is attempted.

There will be misunderstandings at this time, Mercury beginning its retrograde motion is making sure of that, if the placement of the other planets wasn't making this clear enough. What I can say is that what you think you create; and this counts for conscious and subconscious thought equally, so meditation and trying to find a deeper connection with ones true feelings is one of the only ways to surpass the issues that will come into play for many of us at this time.

Neptune itself is sat in the 5th house of the eclipse chart, along with Chiron and indicating that music, creativity, art and drama are where the most joy can be found. Be as a child, and if you can't manage that be around children. The innocence and beauty of life's simplicity can be appreciated most fully at this time. Animals may have a similar appeal, as their inability to be dishonest is equally alluring and refreshing.

Whilst I almost always encourage people to ignore the news and focus on their own lives, at this time deceit and subterfuge are going to be even more prevalent focuses than usual. Also people will be more sensitive to contamination both in the air and in the food chain, so try to keep overall health a priority to keep the immune system on top form. Finances will be a concern for some and community issues a focus. Perhaps there will be more of an emphasis on pulling together and looking out for one another, but with energy being low and wills being weak I think that imbalances will be more noticeable, rather than inroads being made into actually addressing them at this point.

There will be more political confusion over the next couple of weeks, as Mercury retrograde adds even more messiness to the minds of many.

The overall message of this eclipse is that old cliche of 'what you resist persists', there is no avoidance of truth. No amount of failing to speak out will actually change the reality of any situation. If I've learned anything in this life, it is that there is a shedding of intensity in speaking out. Sometimes expression of pain, or sorrow, or frustration, or anger majorly dissipates the feeling itself, where suppression of such adds further difficulty.

Take a risk, speak your mind, if something is important to you it is worth saying. I won't back any confrontation, major decision-making or life changes at this point, simply surrounding ourselves with good people and sharing how we really feel about our lives. Friendship is a great balm at this time and the eclipse meeting the north node in the house of friendship encourages us to trust and allow our hearts to open up to those who care the most about us.

This is a confusing time, a lot of what we see, believe, or feel around these next two weeks should be recognised as untrustworthy. Feelings will be intense, and not necessarily indicative of reality. On the other hand responsibilities may feel more like burdens than usual. Taking time out is essential and learning to take oneself less seriously will help. As Shakespeare once said, "all the world's a stage and all the men and women merely players", right now viewing ones life as a play or a movie will add a backstory that could be the most enjoyable perspective to take.

Wishing you all a beautiful, liberating, story-telling new moon eclipse on Thursday!!

Leo dried peas & love.

~~for those wishing to know how the eclipse is impacting your personal chart, contact me at waxlobster@hotmail.com. A brief reading where I hone in on this eclipse and its impact for you can be done for just £20.

New Moon at 21:44 at 10° Leo – What you resist persists

This new Moon, meeting up with the Sun in fiery Leo tilts the balance of planets into the fire signs. With the Moon making its impact; by joining up with the Sun, Venus continues her sojourn further into the sign at; 22° Leo. The timing of this new Moon, also coincides Mars’ recent return to Sagittarius – also on Tuesday 2nd August, after its long backwards dip into Scorpio. As mentioned in previous articles, Mars was retrograde from 18th April 2016 until 30th June 2016. It had reached 8° Sagittarius at the time of its retrograde and so will still be in the so called ‘shadow of the retrograde until it returns to that point on 22nd August. Still, with Mars back in Sagittarius, energies are higher and anything which has been moving slowly in your life over the last few months will start to gather momentum again.


Saturn is also in Sagittarius, interestingly sitting at 9° very close to the retrograde point for the whole of the month of August as it slows down, ready to turn to forward motion itself. If you have any planets around 8-9° Sagittarius, these are significantly highlighted, once again (just as they were in April). For those of you born around 30th November, that would be the position of your Sun at birth, so most likely this has been a very low energy year for you so far. Do look at what comes up in August in this case, you will learn far more from observing other areas of your life which come to the fore. There is no need to fight against what should be, if you’re tired then rest. Rather than be frustrated look at what IS working for you and embrace it.






In the new Moon chart Neptune sits angularly on the ascendant throwing quite a dampener on the usually energetic Sun-Moon conjunction in Leo. Confusion is the theme of this new Moon, this is not a time to begin something constructive or to make a wish. Neptune always brings a deeper, spiritual and emotional tint to whatever it connects. It is linked to confusion and deception, because we live in a world where facts and figures are valued more highly than creativity, but really Neptune is about all that is elevated and of a higher frequency.

There is a bit of a conflict of interest however, as the Sun-Moon in Leo fall in the detail oriented 6th House implying that facts and figures at this time may well be obfuscated and unavailable. As always, if flowing with the cycles choosing to allow a more creative approach to what is usually mundane will work incredibly well at this time.

I personally postponed the tidying and plant repotting that I need to do to coincide with the new moon and allow new energy to flow more freely around my space. Feng Shui is very important to procure new energy and allow change to occur, and this new Moon favours energetically enhancing ones’ personal space. Whilst many of the more constructive parts of our lives may not be easy to navigate at this time, there is a great deal of cleansing energy which can be worked with and utilized at this time.

A bit of a clean, a move around, to bring new kinds of energy into stagnant areas of your life will work well at this time. This isn’t a time for constructive thought and there won’t be a feeling of great action and celebration in the usual new Moon in Leo sense. Allow action to take place where it is needed, let go of anything which doesn’t seem to be flowing at this time and this can be a very positive new Moon.



August is quite a static month as we wait for Mars to reach as far in Sagittarius and Saturn sits tight awaiting Mars to surge past on 24th August. After which things will begin moving so quickly it will be a very exciting an eventful Autumn.

Enjoy the rest, don’t fight the forces of nature and this can be a tranquil, uplifting and inspiring new Moon time.

If you’d like to know about where 8° Sagittarius falls in your chart, or perhaps to have a personal prediction for this exciting Summer ahead, then do contact me at: waxlobster@hotmail.com

Blessings and joy to you all~~~~~