Gemini

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Full Moon in Gemini ♊ Nov 25, 2015

Wednesday, Nov 25 at 5:44 pm EST

Click here to learn about the Moon. Click here to learn about Gemini.

This particular full moon is known as the Full Cold Moon [for obvious reasons]. And can I just say YAAAY because the Sagittarius season is officially underway as of today! Turn up the music people. The last Full Moon in Gemini fell on December 6, 2014. Any themes/conflicts that predominated then will now resurface. The moon will rise at sunset, peak at midnight and set at sunrise.

The Sun and Moon in total opposition between Sagittarius and Gemini: the adventurer vs. the intellect. Luna rounds herself to majesty just days after the Sun enters Sagittarius. Still building on the energetic theme of speedy manifestation, coming up to base camp sooner than expected. We’ll be meeting in the social sphere, chatting away as Gemini does best. The greatest challenge for Gemini is stilling the mind. Out of all the signs, the twins are undoubtedly the least calm.

On the Full Moon in Gemini last year I found myself at a party. We had the social [Gemini] element, and what were we doing there? Tuning up skis and snowboards for an active [Sagittarius] winter season. Tucked away in couch corners with close friends, idly snipping words and beers and crackers, TV blaring ski videos, hippies in beanies laughing raucously in the garage as they waxed their snow devices. Here Gemini sat and talked while Sagittarius ambled around the house dreaming of gnarly slopes. For a time, we coexisted together, the motormouths and the adrenaline junkies, sharing hot chili and cider. We’ve reached this juncture once again and if you’re not excited yet…!

Some interpretations of Gemini suggest that he never ventures beyond his comfort zone. However, this comfort zone seems to only encompass the habits and mental patterns of the individual, because when it comes to traveling, changing appearances and switching careers, no one is more masterful than Gemini. This is the paradox of the twins: although they’re holing up at the party, lean in to hear them recount at light speed a plenitude of far-flung experiences. Sagittarius may glance over and dismiss these sprightly little air creatures as conceited or verbose, but in so doing, he misses the glory of the human mind on full display. Likewise, Gemini may scoff at Sagittarius’ constant need for physical movement, seemingly always on his own personal quest for the greater and grander, rather than bask in raw bodily enthusiasm, the purest encapsulation of joy in manifest form.

There is a certain seriousness to the unemotional, ultra rational approach of the twins. Gemini immediately resorts to logic and talking/writing through things in order to understand them intellectually, but there are some things in life that simply must be experienced in order to be known: as Tao master Lao Tzu decried, the way that can be named is not the Way. Sagittarius is anything but serious. Too much Sagittarius makes life feel hurried, vague and uninformed. Too much Gemini makes us tight and rigid, seated firmly in the waking, active, thinking mind. Gemini wants to categorize, discern, label, sort, identify. However, the twins remind the centaur archer that there is much to be gained from precision and accuracy.

Unleash your inner writer/poet/artist to properly channel the cyclone of thoughts billowing round your golden mind at this time. Tune in, find the realness, figure out which ideas are gravy. I suggest calling up all your homies and/or practicing some Gemini Yoga.

To ascertain your personal Moon sign, click here.

Mantra: I close both eyes to see with the other

Photo taken by Ren Tvedten outside of Los Angeles

Last Quarter Moon in Gemini ☾ Sep 5, 2015

The Last Quarter in Gemini comes exact on Saturday, Sep 5 at 5:54am EST

Click here to learn about the Moon. Click here to learn about Gemini.

In this particular phase, the Sun in Virgo squares the moon in Gemini. The moon will rise at midnight, peak at dawn and set at noon. If you view the moon at midnight, the Sun will be positioned directly beneath your feet. Staring at the moon during this time will align you so that you are looking right out (approximately) along the forward path of Earth’s orbit around the Sun ^__^

The Last Quarter Moon in Gemini of autumn 2014 fell on September 15. Any themes/conflicts that predominated then will now resurface.

For those who are strongly affected by lunar energy, the quarter moon phases are extremely emotional. Square aspects are sharp, angular junctions that prompt change. As CafeAstrology notes, the quarter phases feel like a “crisis of consciousness.” Be compassionate with yourself :) I knew that the Virgo cycle would travel quickly but WOW this is intense. Many astrologers and new age theorists are talking about the stargate/portal we’re entering in September and the way in which this will prepare us for autumn 2016. l’ve been feeling lightheaded and exhausted for the last week and it’s not just from all the smoke hanging around the Rocky Mountains recently. First I thought the Supermoon would be tame, then I thought crazy, and now that it’s over I still don’t know, but I suppose that’s just the nature of Pisces energy.

The role of the Last Quarter Moon is to take information gleaned from the revelatory Full Moon and use it to mold plans and intentions at the New Moon. This is a time of sorting, discerning, assimilating - making sense of all that was illuminated. With this phase falling in Gemini, processing takes place through the intellect. Gemini is an interesting creature. When balanced, he lives in the mercurial creative flow - mind, voice and arms connected as one - prolific manifestation of the inner prism’s sights and sounds. However, he may fly away from everyone and everything at the first twinge of doubt. Gemini is the sign of twins and duality; what this means on a basic level is that he can hold two seemingly contradictory opinions/beliefs simultaneously. This works pretty well until he crumples beneath the spinning pressure mounting inside the brain. It is both Gemini’s greatest task and challenge to stay and confront - so tuck your wings back, my friend.

At this time our desire to wander, roam, write, travel, dillydally, daydream - all this speaks to the heart while the pull towards work and daily routines will feel like a duty. Virgo demands responsibility and discipline; Gemini demands absolute freedom to change anything and everything. In many ways, Virgo (number 6 in the zodiac) represents a more evolved version of Gemini (number 3).

But Virgo is not flawless. She turns her turmoil inward like Gemini, although she’s not a runner. Virgo internalizes with a dazzling display of dizzying anxiety and indiscrete perfectionism. With the Sun here, stewing in the pit of the stomach, and the moon racing between the clouds like a Gemini wind spirit, we’ll be careening through space faster and brighter than ever. However, I think part of the whole learning process right now is about allowing things to take their course. It’s all happening in hyperdrive so we don’t need to do much to expedite the unfolding. That’s how I would interpret this phase - a time to be alert, but not controlling. Gemini energy tenses up when change comes along, and then he just can’t stop thinking about the damn thing - don’t do it! Recognize when those thoughts bubble up and then go for a run or something else that gets you out of the mind and into the body. If you’re feeling imbalanced, treat this for what it is: a phase, nothing more. Mental energy levels will increase now temporarily. I suggest a ritual involving breath or some Gemini Yoga.

If you are curious about how this transit affects you personally, please contact me for more insight. To ascertain your personal Moon sign, click here.

Mantra: mindfulness

New Moon in Gemini ⚫ June 16, 2015

The New Moon in Gemini comes exact on June 16, 2015 at 10:05 am EST

Click here to learn about the Moon. Click here to learn about Gemini.

Every new moon falls in the same sign as that of the Sun. This is precisely what makes it a new moon. Sometimes we end up with a new moon near the end of a cycle. That’s what we have, yet again, with the New Moon in Gemini.

Breath of freedom

I like the new moon at the end of a cycle. I think it serves as a baptism of sorts, a refreshing absolution of any fumbles we’ve made over the last few weeks. Visualize this New Moon in Gemini as a cool wind entering your mind, coming in through the ears, eyes, nose and mouth: a gentle breeze here to lift away what you no longer need or want. I suggest a ritual involving writing, spoken word poetry or a dynamic intention-setting conversation with a close friend or sibling.

The new moon is your chance to recreate. This phase is like an infant: impressionable, vulnerable and wide-eyed. How will you set the tone? What projects have you been meaning to launch? What changes need to be made? This is a time of beginnings, or perhaps going back to the start. Words, thoughts and actions that surface now are seeds planted for later harvest.

The Mercurial cycle winds down

The Gemini cycle this year has been emotionally taxing, in part due to Mercury Retrograde in Gemini, in part due to the rapid, exponential collective shift we are all experiencing here on Earth. I look forward to the peace and quiet of new moon energy. However, you may feel an energetic “letdown.” Imagine spending all day at an amusement park, twirling and whirling through space on bright rainbow rollercoasters. This new moon at the end of the cycle is like getting on the bus to go home - alone at last, resting, reflecting on all the fun you’ve just had. The changeover from busybody mercurial energy to the relative calm of this new moon may cause some to feel cagey, depressed or confused. I recommend lots of pranayama to balance the wind element - see Gemini Yoga for ideas.

Much of the Gemini cycle is designed as a lesson in mind-stilling. Gemini seems to perfectly embody a magnificent contradiction of external reality: although it appears fixed and solid, everything is in constant motion, right down to the molecules buzzing in your body at this very moment. The idea that we might somehow still the mind amidst all of this chaotic cellular activity seems ridiculous, impossible, laughable. Yet in this lifetime and the next and the next, this is our foremost task. Allow the twins to guide you down the twisting, turning path of equanimity. See the Self as an entity that also joyfully embodies this contradiction: stillness in motion. What you will find is that we are perpetually becoming rather than being - in this realization, infinite ecstasy.

Primordial wind

We are still in the primordial period of the astrological year, lest we forget. And that’s really what it feels like at the threshold of this new moon. I find myself bobbing in the whirlwind of my own strong Gemini essence – curious, wondering when things will pick up, insatiable restlessness in the seat of my soul. As Gemini is an air sign, it is important that we focus on the breath for this new moon. More precisely, let’s focus on the connection between breath and mind. Notice the way in which you breathe dictates, in part if not entirely, patterns of thought and perception. If you have the time and resources, find an outdoor location where the wind blows strongly. Meditate here.

Gemini is one of my favorite signs. During the Taurus season I spoke about being able to step back and see myself so clearly, too clearly. For the last few weeks, I’ve done the same thing, but this time it feels light and cleansing. The fixed earth energy of the bull was heavy indeed, but that’s just a distant memory now. I feel like a seedling traveling in an air current. There’s a bright, scintillating sensation all around that only twin energy can give us. Now that I’ve worked closely with children for the last year, I see that our astrological signature manifests at a very early age. Balanced little Geminis are buoyant, intelligent, dillydallying through timespace with apparent glee.

The New Moon in Gemini is ultimately an opportunity to cultivate tranquility within. If you seek happiness and comfort in the external world, you will only come to find that all you sense is merely a reflection of the Self. I’d like to return briefly to the idea of becoming with this quote: “What would it mean to begin always from the middle? To experiment with renouncing that lure of mastery with which definitive beginnings and endings seduce thought?” - L.B. Higgins, Becoming through Multiplicity (2011) You are loved. Namaste.

If you would like to learn more about how this transit affects you personally, please contact me for more insight. To ascertain your personal Moon sign, click here.

Mantra: stillness

Sun in Gemini ☼ May 21 - June 21

The Sun transits Gemini from May 21 – June 21 (Summer Solstice)

Click here to learn about the Sun. Click here to learn about Gemini.

Disclaimer: when talking about Sun signs, it’s really more accurate to say “the Earth’s relation to the Sun” since the Earth is the one moving. An appropriate name for this much-celebrated, often oversimplified astrological element would therefore be “Earth Sign.” Remember – you embody a whole soup of planets!

If you are a Gemini, now comes your Solar Return. With the Sun in Taurus for the last month, the energy around us was rather forceful. Yes, the bull can be graceful and supple like a tender young branch, but she’s a fighter deep down. It’s hard for Taurus to be loose and flexible. Internally, the bull is a geometric assemblage of hard edges and rough emotions. Life appears to her as short, uncomplicated and rather harsh. Taurus energy is slow, sweet and meandering, but perhaps the last month felt too slow. Prepare for life to pick up considerably over the next few weeks. Gemini epitomizes mutable energy.

Mercurial cycle

The Sun in mutable air sign Gemini marks the kickoff for the coming month and the official end of the Venusian cycle. Once again, I am personally exhausted. This last month was draining. I look forward to the return of mercurial energy in our skies. Gemini: the intellect, social butterfly and insatiable soul. In classic astrology Gemini is associated with communication, writing, speech and duality. This sign has an incredible amount of mental energy which usually spills over and manifests as fidgeting or nervous tics. Many Geminis are writers, poets and artists. When imbalanced, this sign is overly talkative, flighty or indecisive. Gemini is the first of the air signs in the zodiac realm, and generally speaking, signs that come early in the line-up struggle with the fundamentals. Out of all the signs, Gemini is undoubtedly the least calm. Let’s cultivate stillness in this upcoming cycle.

Gemini requires massive stimulation. You may find yourself juggling many interests, relationships and endeavors at once. What’s ironic is that Geminis themselves are often poor jugglers. You’d think otherwise, as the Gemini essence is pure quicksilver, but it seems that control and stability are hard to come by in the twin realm. This is why Geminis have a reputation for inconsistency. But this is how the twins operate - constantly in motion, always changing. We have moved thus far from the lava flow of Aries to the cooling, hardening stage of Taurus, and now we take a hammer and break it all apart. Watch the ashes lift with the wind, mingling and swirling like tiny birds, only to land once more in the ocean of Cancer: a cosmic tale of death and rebirth in the first stage of the zodiac realm.

The axis of knowledge

Studying the polarities of the zodiac wheel is an effective method to learn more about the signs. You may recall that mutable fire Sagittarius is Gemini’s opposite sign, 180 degrees across on the wheel. Gemini is Sagittarius’ crude yet vibrant predecessor; together they create the axis of knowledge. Whereas the centaur finds it difficult to focus intently on one thing, the twins tend to obsess. Gemini likes to linger, to hone in, to chase a thought and pin it down until nothing more can be extracted. Sagittarius wanders freely, dashing here and there, excitedly exploring, but the imbalanced Gemini stops and stutters, spins backwards, gets caught in hundreds of turbines, then does it all again. Our greatest challenge now is to emulate the centaur by taking an interest in that which is far away, physically or otherwise – anything that draws us out, away from home base. Speak your mind freely, spontaneously, fully, truthfully. Resist the fear of appearing unintellectual.

Geminis have a knowing, especially in the eyes. The twins are cunning, extremely intelligent, embodying a sort of sharp, swift energy. When balanced, Geminis are extraordinarily charming. Unlike any other sign in the realm, the twins have a way of communicating that instantly puts others at ease. This is where Gemini shines, in his ability to make others feel valued, supported and respected. The twins are endlessly curious, chatty and analytical. You may notice that even the pace with which you speak increases now. I hope that you will enjoy all the new friendships and excitable conversations that are about to enter your life. Outgoing though we may be, trust can be hard to earn now. The twins are certainly expert at meeting and chatting up strangers, but imbalanced Geminis are picky and struggle to form close, long-term relationships.

Winds of change

We’re still practically at the beginning of the the zodiac wheel, the first spring winds blowing seedlings around the soul’s forest floor. Earth to air…feel that transition viscerally, in your imagination and in your senses. For example: when I say “lemon,” you might instantly visualize bright yellow, a waxy rind, and your tongue may even constrict with imagined sourness. Now when I say EARTH, feel how it is damp, heavy, bursting with nutrients. Lay down in the mud. Now visualize this earth drying as a strong wind blows in from all directions: cool, gentle, tantalizingly refreshing. Lift your face to this breeze. Close your eyes, take a deep inhale. Feel your heart beating, breath drawing in. Smell the faraway scent of flowers embedded in these winds of change.

Indeed, I used to think of the Gemini soul as adventurous and adaptable, but I see now that this is often not the case. The twins have a comfort zone that they don’t particularly like to leave, simply because it is difficult for them to do so. These types easily become trapped in the mind. The Gemini vibration resembles a gyroscopic electrical storm. To alleviate interminably circling thoughts, the twins never sit still and feel cagey when they must. Ideal socioscapes now are those such as airports, train/bus stations, huge cities, clubs, packed bars, malls, public squares, etc - anywhere you can get lost in a crowd and perhaps become someone else. Gemini thrives on anonymity, fantasies, stranger danger, chameleon acts and endless traveling. Many with strong Gemini energy make odd first impressions – often they will not say anything or appear to ignore everyone! This is because they are feeling everything out with a quiet intensity. The ultimate Gemini dream is that someone will magically understand and appreciate this silence.

You may now frequently change appearances or take on new personas, even on a daily basis. A common fantasy is to travel the world and become a new person at each destination. Gemini also loves puzzles, word games, anything that honors proficiency in writing, reading or speaking. When playing games, expect to be unusually fast and witty. If imbalanced, it will be very difficult to calm down and be in the present moment. The mind wants to wander. All of this mental energy comes in very handy in academic or professional settings! If you can focus for long enough, you will absorb information quickly and systematically. Gemini is expert at processing new data and finding out where it fits. Be firm in your sense of Self. Step with confidence. You are propelled now by an unseen force. Let’s continue building for the year ahead. We still have wiggle room and countless new opportunities knocking. Namaste.

If you are a Gemini or would like to know more about how this transit affects you personally, please contact me.

Mantra: stillness

Mercury Rx in Gemini ♊ May 18 - June 11

Mercury will station retrograde in Gemini from May 18 - June 11

Click here to learn about Mercury.

We’ve discussed Mercury stationing retrograde starting May 18 and Mercury entering Gemini as of April 30. Let’s combine topics and wax poetic on the nature of Mercury Retrograde in this insatiable mutable air sign. Click here to learn more about retrograde motion.

As the word “retrograde” implies, this is a time when we go back to finish, review and redo. You may recall that the last Mercury Rx transit fell in Aquarius, the air sign following Gemini and Libra. After a stint in Gemini, this year’s next and final Mercury Rx will indeed fall in Libra, the other remaining air sign. This is how Mercury Retrograde moves through the zodiac realm, year after year. 2015 is the Mercury Rx year of the air element. Mercury Rx in Aquarius shined a light on our own organic brilliance and inner wisdom. What abundance will we receive from Mercury Rx in Gemini? With Mercury in Gemini, we return to areas of life connected to our social circle and intellectual pursuits. Unlike Aquarius, Gemini is a mutable sign, meaning that this period will appear to move more quickly and sporadically than the last.

Now is the time to break out of relationships/partnerships that have calcified over time and no longer serve you. Gemini is the sign of duality and twins. In particular, you may now focus on sibling relationships. This transit will also help you attain a new level of knowledge and creativity, especially in fields such as writing or everyday technology. Mercury Rx in Gemini presents an opportunity to harness the magic of communication and brainpower. At its core, Mercury Rx is all about change and there is simply no escaping! I like to think of Mercury in Gemini as a return to square one: hitting the reset button, returning to home base. This is actually a very auspicious placement for Mercury, as he rules Gemini; in astrology we say that this retrograde transit occurs “at home.” Keeping this in mind, have faith that the inevitable changes now hurtling at you full speed are ultimately there to help and center you.

Visualize a sharp and cunning wind blowing through your life, rearranging and readjusting all that needs attention. Mercury Rx in Gemini is vibrant and animated yet undeniably overwhelming. Gemini epitomizes the true essence of mercurial/mutable energy. If you resist becoming that which you already are, I expect that this transit will be difficult for you. All of the projects, goals and ideas dancing in your psyche are just waiting to burst forth in an explosion of color and heat. Holding a lid on all this mutable energy is like trying to direct the wind: futile and exhausting.

If I’m being honest, I’m slightly nervous about the potency of this transit, only because I have come to more fully understand the way in which the twins move in tight, concentric circles, never straying too far from the familiar. Gemini can be so detail-oriented that the big picture might get overlooked. To determine your Mercury sign and whether he was direct or retrograde at the time of your birth, click here. It is interesting to note that, if you were indeed born with Mercury Rx, you may not notice the effects above as strongly, if at all.

Mantra: change is good

Mars in Gemini ♂ May 11 - June 24

Mars transits Gemini from May 11 - June 24, 2015

Click here to learn about Mars. Click here to learn about Gemini.

For the last month or so, Mars plodded through Taurus. Over the last few weeks it’s been difficult to even write about all these Taurus transits. Inertia, the bull’s greatest foe. But we fully comprehend what the bull is capable of, now that we’re halfway through the Taurus cycle. What to expect as Mars now whirls into the realm of mutable air Gemini?

Power to the intellect

As each planet gravitates from sign to sign, subtle aspects of life on Earth shift accordingly. Mars transits shape our ambition, physical drive and sexual urges. Martian power is sourced now from our intellect and social life. Mars in Gemini is light and playful in his natural state, restless and inconsistent if imbalanced. When the warrior planet meets up with the twins, masters of spoken word, the tongue becomes the weapon of greatest destruction. Active, physical, masculine Mars finds his outlet now in endless conversation, wild gesticulation (Gemini rules the hands) and a deep craving for stimulation in all forms. You may be particularly drawn to puzzles, board games, journaling, reading or anything involving spoken/written communication. With Mars in Gemini, the ego lives in the mind’s abilities. We take immense pride in our capacity for knowledge.

Mars in fixed earth Taurus was slow, stubborn and perhaps a bit lazy. Now Mars immerses himself in the divine speed and agility of the air element. We may be prone to nervousness, nitpicking or over-thinking if we don’t have enough to do, so be sure to keep moving and stay busy. Mars in Gemini operates best when multitasking. Counterintuitive though it may be, juggling ten undertakings rather than two is what will allow us to remain focused and whole. If balanced, expect to feel curious, energized and gregarious. Visualize a handful of fluffy seeds borne on the wind, unconcerned as to the final destination.

Throat chakra awareness

Mars in Gemini is easily bored. As you know, it is important to move and sweat every day, but now we have no choice. Let the body languish, and like clockwork, an energetic tempest of gale force proportions will manifest rapidly in mind and body, inevitably spewing out as a cyclone of cutting sarcasm or petty debate. We must not only move the body, but also bring conscious awareness to the throat chakra. Mars in Gemini asks us to speak our truth. Have confidence and know that the stars are with you. Draw upon the twins’ inherent wit and versatility to direct your voice effectually.

The pace of everyday life will pick up considerably now. Release any pent-up emotions through the hands, such as by writing, playing music or making art. Although we must now learn how to balance many ideas/relationships/duties at once, don’t be surprised when you suddenly lose interest in them. Remember that Mars in Gemini is ultimately just looking to have as much fun as possible and stay occupied. Tune in now to the beauty and power of the human mind.

To ascertain your personal Mars sign, click here. If you would like to know more about how this transit affects you personally, please contact me for more insight.

Mercury at home in Gemini ☿ Apr 30 - July 8

Mercury transits Gemini from April 30 – July 8, 2015

Click here to learn about Mercury. Click here to learn about Gemini.

Mercury transits to mutable air Gemini after plodding through Taurus for the last couple weeks. I like to think of this transit as a return to square one, hitting the reset button, home base. Gemini epitomizes the true essence of mercurial/mutable energy. Mercury rules both Gemini and mutable earth Virgo. In astrology, we say that he is returning “home” now. Planets at home are auspicious placements.

Shrouded in veils

Mercury in Gemini takes everything very seriously. The Gemini soul is shrouded in veils - solemn, private, concerned. Yes, we are interested now in learning about everything and sharing insights with anyone who will listen; Mercury in Gemini means long, meandering conversations that cover a whole banquet of topics. And yet the twins move in tight, concentric circles, never straying too far from the familiar. Gemini can be so detail-oriented that the big picture might get overlooked.

Mercury in Gemini will make you want to travel, move or go (back) to school. Even if you stay put, expect this transit to manifest as conversation overload! Mercury in Gemini is endlessly curious, chatty and analytical; you may notice that even the pace with which you speak increases now. Despite this motormouth propensity, Gemini is cautious and discreet. When imbalanced, the twins fear offending others. To counteract this, Geminis employ excellent tact and keep the true Self well guarded. As you might imagine, this is what gives Gemini his notorious air of aloofness. What I’m trying to say is that it’s very important now to stay relaxed and candid. Don’t worry so much about how others perceive you or what you say.

Digging the hole deeper

You may recall that Mercury transited the twins’ opposite sign (Sagittarius) at the end of November 2014. Any themes that predominated then will now resurface. Both Sagittarius and Gemini like to exaggerate, but for entirely different reasons. Mercury in Sagittarius spins tall tales for his own amusement and that of others - all in good fun, you might say. The imbalanced Gemini exaggerates simply because he talks so much and (often) with dramatic effect that he is forced to cover up, go back on his word or otherwise add one story on top of another, in the process only continuing to talk more, digging the hole ever deeper!

Whereas the centaur finds it difficult to focus intently on one thing, the twins tend to obsess. Gemini likes to linger, to hone in, to chase a thought and pin it down until nothing more can be extracted. Mercury in Sagittarius wanders freely, dashing here and there, excitedly exploring, but the imbalanced Gemini stops and stutters, spins backwards, gets caught in hundreds of turbines, then does it all again. Our greatest challenge now is to emulate the centaur by taking an interest in that which is far away, physically or otherwise - anything that draws you out, away from your proverbial home base.

Nervous energy

We must actively combat insincerity with Mercury in Gemini. This is not to say that the Gemini soul is phony by nature. In fact, there is something undeniably raw about Gemini. The twins’ words and actions are like unedited manuscripts, full to bursting with little notes and additions and hurriedly scrawled advice. To the untrained eye, Geminis appear calm, cool and collected. Yet hiding just under the surface of this carefully manicured facade is a bundle of nervous energy. Many Geminis willingly admit that they don’t like staying in relationships, jobs or physical locations for very long. As they are infatuated with mystery, Geminis very quickly become intrigued by people and things, but just as quickly as these feelings arise, the twins are known to drop them as though nothing ever happened.

I used to think of the Gemini soul as adventurous and adaptable, but I’m starting to see that this is often not the case. Geminis have a comfort zone that they don’t particularly like to leave, probably because it is simply difficult for them to do so. These types easily become trapped in the mind. The Gemini vibration resembles a gyroscopic electrical storm. Mercury in Gemini will require massive stimulation of the mind as a way to alleviate interminably circling thoughts. We are asked now to work on communication basics and cerebral pursuits. If balanced, expect to feel bubbly and animated. Mercury in Gemini is also unapologetically charming and flirtatious.

If you were born with Mercury in Gemini, these next few months will be a Mercury Return for you. If you don’t know your personal Mercury sign, click here. To learn more about how this transit affects you personally, please contact me for more insight.

Mantra: stillness

Venus in Gemini ⚢ Apr 11 - May 7

Venus spins through Gemini from April 11 – May 7, 2015

Click here to learn about Venus. Click here to learn about Gemini.

Venus now moves from Taurus into mutable air Gemini. Venus embodies the Divine Feminine: romance, beauty, pleasure, happiness and fine art. As she spins from sign to sign, changes take place within the heart. Venus concerns attraction: what vibes are you exuding and what attracts you? If Venus in Taurus was like building a house with the one you love, Venus in Gemini is the first intellectual conversation with your lover. After settling in and taking stock, we’re ready to move from body to mind.

For the last month or so…

Venus in Taurus was as stubborn as she was sensual. This transit kind of felt like walking upright for the first time: exciting in a fundamental way, but definitely a bit wobbly. Resisting urges and impulses was especially difficult as Venus was a lavish goddess while at home in Taurus. I observed during this transit that my inner child was alive and well. Just as children willfully deny those details of external reality which challenge their dream-like conception of the world, the bull digs in her hooves and shakes her horns: no! I do not accept! And in the same way that children move through the world as simultaneously selfish and innocent creatures, the imbalanced bull lollops along peacefully without regard for the needs of others. Earth energy sits heavy yet sweet: full, juicy, bursting with promise. I like to visualize Venus in Taurus as young lovers in a fierce embrace. She was tactile when balanced, materialistic when taken to the extreme. What to expect now as the Goddess of Love whirls into the realm of the twins?

Buzzing minds

The move now is from an indulgent heart to a curious one. It took me a long time to understand Gemini and I’m still grappling with this intense sign. I used to think of the Gemini soul as adventurous and adaptable, but I’m starting to see that this is often not really the case. Geminis have a comfort zone that they don’t particularly like to leave, probably because they easily become trapped in the mind. When I am around other Geminis, I sense a vibration that resembles a gyroscopic electrical storm. The twins are constantly in motion: busy, buzzing, worrying, searching, pondering, frenzied! The karmic purpose behind incarnation as a Gemini is to find peace within. Venus in Gemini will require massive stimulation of the mind as a way to alleviate interminably circling thoughts. We are asked now to work on communication basics and cerebral pursuits. If balanced, expect to feel bubbly, chatty and animated. Venus in Gemini is unapologetically charming and flirtatious.

The axis of knowledge

You may recall that Venus transited the twins’ opposite sign (Sagittarius) back in November 2014. Themes that surface now are a reflection of our progress since then. Gemini and Sagittarius are both restless, seeking. Venus in Sagittarius is jolly and dynamic; Venus in Gemini can be equally buoyant as long as we remain open to trying new things. Sagittarius sparkles, gliding forward effervescently in time and space, never dwelling; Gemini tends to linger, to hone in, to chase a thought and pin it down until nothing more can be extracted. The trick is to keep moving. Focus on being as extroverted as possible. The more we share and co-create, the more we expand. If imbalanced, we may settle, close the mind, build walls or fool ourselves into believing that we’ve seen all there is. Sagittarius wanders freely, dashing here and there, excitedly exploring, but the imbalanced Gemini stops and stutters, spins backwards, gets caught in hundreds of turbines and then does it all over again.

Gemini wants to get well acquainted with so-called reality. The twins love to pick apart everything that happens to/around them. Whereas Venus in Sagittarius is escapist and in denial when imbalanced, Venus in Gemini thinks way too much, caught up in the mind’s incessant squabbling. The centaur wants to see the best in everyone and everything, always the optimist, but the twins are inclined to critique, to find a way to know the truth rather than hope for something more idealistic. Venus in Gemini can be secretive and calculating. Resist the urge to judge, exclude, deceive or assume - there is much to be gained from emulating the centaur’s firm moral code. Venus now encourages us to consider – do my thoughts and inner life harmonize with my external social life?

Resisting flakiness

In her natural habitat, Venus enjoys a certain level of bounty and luxury. In Libra, she plays the part of peaceful diplomat, master of balance and fairness. In Taurus, Venus reclines. What abundance can Venus in Gemini provide? What becomes scarce? When the Goddess of Love intertwines with the twins, we are showered with unprecedented creative and social energy. Outgoing though we may be, trust is hard to earn now. Ideal socioscapes for Venus in Gemini are those such as airports, train/bus stations, huge cities, clubs, packed bars/malls, public squares, etc. Anywhere the twins can get lost in a crowd and perhaps become someone else - this is where the heart lives now. Gemini thrives on anonymity, fantasies, stranger danger, chameleon acts and endless traveling. The connections we’re looking for now are fleeting yet powerful, such as when we wave or smile at an attractive stranger.

Venus in Gemini is hard to satisfy because she requires so much. The heart and mind of the twins is voracious, which is why these types like to juggle many interests, relationships and endeavors at once. What’s ironic is that many Geminis are poor jugglers. You’d think they’d be expert multitaskers, as the Gemini nature is pure quicksilver, but it seems that control and stability are hard to come by in the twin realm. This is why Geminis have a reputation for inconsistency, flakiness and fear of commitment.

Although Venus in Gemini is community-oriented and truly loves meeting others, there is an unmistakable air of privacy to this transit. We desire getting to know others as long as we may keep the Self shrouded in mystery. Aha - this is the paradox of Venus in Gemini. Geminis are very adept at reading thoughts, body language and voices. The twins have an uncanny ability to readily identify what makes others tick. These insights, however, are often immediately distorted by Gemini’s insistence on analyzing everything to death! Be sure to routinely step out of the internal world and into your surroundings.

To find out your personal Venus sign, click here. If you are curious about how this transit affects you personally, please contact me for more insight.

Mantra: stillness

First Quarter Moon in Gemini ☽ Feb 25, 2015

The 1st Quarter in Gemini comes exact on Wednesday, Feb 25 at 12:14 pm EST

Click here to learn about the Moon. Click here to learn about Gemini.

The First Quarter marks the halfway point between the New and Full Moon. The First and Last Quarter occur when the Moon aspects the Sun at a 90 degree angle. (Seen from above, the Moon forms a right angle in relation to an invisible line running through the Earth to the Sun, hence “square” for the name of this astrological aspect. Here the Moon has completed 1/4 of her journey around the Earth.) In this particular phase, the Sun in mutable water Pisces will square the Moon in mutable air sign Gemini. The Moon will rise at noon, peak at dusk and set at midnight.

Approaching checkpoint

This phase is a checkpoint. What aspects of our initiatives have been successful thus far? Where do we need to work harder? Nearing the Full Moon is like creeping to the high point of a rollercoaster: soon all undertakings will be fully realized and answers to lingering questions brought to the fore. You are encouraged now to scope out any flaws in the foundation laid with the New Moon in Pisces. Are your ventures built to last?

The waxing light of the Moon symbolizes a return to total awareness. This is the best time to tweak and improve upon existing plans. At every Full Moon we manifest all that was intended at the New Moon, so the week between the First Quarter and Full Moon (Feb 25 - March 5) is a very powerful time. If you have been diligent, expect to see your ideas come to fruition now.

Making way for the new

Squares mean change. We have reached a corner and must choose a new direction. The building energy and excitement you may feel now is there to inspire you. The First Quarter Moon encourages decisive action, calculated risk-taking, networking and deepened commitment to personal growth. The Moon is asking you to gather yourself. This phase falls in mutable signs, meaning that the most attractive path now will be one that allows for plenty of flexibility. Our intention is to adapt and modify: during the Aquarian cycle, what new aspects of your routine/life philosophy proved to be most conducive to inner peace? What was a lovely idea in theory but failed to manifest smoothly in reality?

Dreams vs. reality

The First Quarter Moon falling in Gemini represents a conflict between our most cherished dreams and the harsh details of reality. I like to imagine each Moon cycle as a procession of poignantly themed challenges. Generally speaking, the Pisces cycle is spiritual in nature. The fishes want to gauge your comfort level with the proverbial death of all things - Pisces represents ultimate change: irreversible transformation. Are you prepared for metamorphosis, should the Universe come knocking on your door at this very moment? The Gemini twins catch the fishes now in all four hands to inspect them meticulously; the First Quarter Moon in this particular cycle is a trial run for the dreamy fish - will our hopes and plans find traction in the real world, or are they better left in the depths of REM sleep?

Gemini attempts now to contain and categorize the free-flowing essence of Pisces. The twins are not satisfied with blank spaces or unanswered questions. The First Quarter will allow us to get organized - without Gemini’s insistence on order, it is all too easy to get swept away in the mighty current of wishful thinking. Think of this phase as a “back to basics” approach: if we haven’t figured out the logistics, how will we accomplish lofty spiritual goals? From Pisces we learn to be romantic, optimistic, faithful and gentle; from Gemini we learn the importance of practicality, intellectualism and precision. At this time our desire to get everything in shipshape speaks to the heart while the responsibility of remaining open and flexible will feel more like a duty.

When the Moon transits an air sign, social and mental energy run high. Expect people to be more chatty and animated than usual. I like to visualize Gemini as an arcade: stimuli for days, an endless turbine of noise and color and movement. So if you feel like going out and mingling with the masses, this is perfectly natural. It’s time to get in touch with how and where we can better focus on the smaller details of day-to-day life - what keeps you running at top speed? How do you live up to your responsibility to be punctual, tidy and efficient? I suggest getting everything in writing: plans, aspirations, ideals, beliefs, methods. Identify what is most important to you and then ask yourself: how can I embody this in mind, body and spirit, how can I become it?

If you are curious about how this transit affects you personally, please contact me for more insight. To ascertain your personal Moon sign, click here.

Mantra: surfacing for air