opposition

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Full Moon in Leo 🐱 Jan 23, 2016

Saturday, Jan 23 at 8.46 pm EST

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

This particular Full Moon is known as the Full Snow Moon. Luna will rise at sunset, peak at midnight and set at sunrise.

The Sun and Moon in total opposition between Aquarius and Leo: we vs. me, mind vs. heart. Luna rounds herself to majesty just days after the Sun enters Aquarius. Speedy manifestation. We meet in the fire of the Ego now.

Cats in heat prowling the alleys, purring and shimmying. A lovely image, especially in the dead of winter, but…too much leonine energy produces self-interest and bullying. Leo has self-serving tendencies, yes, because this is precisely how he creates and maintains reality: from the inside out, radiating from the center of the heart. The lion is incredibly passionate, and this I fear. Does Leo know how to play nicely? We shall see.

Leo seeks freedom through the trials and triumphs of the heart, Aquarius through the mind. The heart looks out for the Self, naturally; the heart is like the Moon – deeply internal and categorically personal. The mind is rational and all-inclusive, bridging the Self and the collective. They inform each other and expand as one.

As fixed signs, Leo and Aquarius make changes that reflect what they think is the best way of doing things. Said changes are often perfectly informed and helpful to all people, but these dudes might not-so-quietly believe that only certain knowledge/methods/prescriptions behoove the greater good. Sounds like: all are welcome, but when you get here, you better listen to what I have to say.

The Full Moon in Leo represents a conflict between standing out and becoming yarn in the great cosmic loom, threaded and pressed until our own color fades blissfully into the rainbow. Two equally important sources of pride: Self and Universe.

The headstrong lion advocates individuality while the water bearer rebels instead by adopting counter-culture ideologies, spreading messages of social justice and equality to all of humanity. We are all water bearers in our own right, reviving and stimulating the collective. The Full Moon in Leo provides a much-needed break from this (sometimes) exhausting quest. The lion says: relax your vigilance and enjoy who you are. Aquarius’ constant, burning screams for revolution and inculcation dissolve, if only for a moment. Radical logic disappears amidst flaming tongues of starlight, and the lion stretches out, content, confident, self-satisfied.

The Full Moon in Leo means exuberant, unadulterated expression of your truest, most brilliant Self and appreciation for all other colorful, loving individuals. Meow. I suggest a ritual involving fire and some Leo Yoga.

To ascertain your personal Moon sign, click here.

Mantra: I love myself

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Full Moon at home in Cancer ♋ Dec 25, 2015

Friday, Dec 25 at 6.11 am EST

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

This particular Full Moon is known as the Full Wolf Moon. Cold and hungry, packs of wolves would howl through the night around Native American villages. The last Full Moon in Cancer fell on January 4, 2015. 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 Capricorn and Cancer: divine masculine vs. divine feminine. Luna rounds herself to majesty just days after the Sun enters Capricorn. Still building on the energetic theme of speedy manifestation, coming up to base camp sooner than expected. We meet in the ocean now.

You may recall that the Moon rules Cancer. When a planet returns to the sign it rules, we say in astrology that this planet is “at home.” The Full Moon in Cancer is as lunar as you can get. In classic astrology, Cancer is associated with home, children, family, protection, emotion and intuition - I would say that Cancer feels like home - lots of double meanings here as the moon is indeed “at home” during this phase AND Cancer’s mantra is “I feel.” Cancer is known for her exceptional artistic abilities and keen interest in cats, baking, fantasy/sci-fi, music and dancing. Cancer is the sign of the crab. Those born with strong Cancer energy move slowly and cautiously as they are quite susceptible to the vibrations of people and places. The psychic membrane separating Cancer from the external world is thin and porous. Due to this, crab types are easily overwhelmed. On the upside, this sensitivity makes Cancer uncommonly understanding, empathic and sincere. As cardinal signs, balanced Cancers are usually able to keep it together pretty well during tense moments, but at the first opportunity, they have to let it all out.

The Cancer-Capricorn polarity is between the heart and the head, although this is a bit of an oversimplification. More accurately: Cancers see the heart as an organic and integral source of information, as do Capricorns, but the goat struggles to collate what he feels versus what he thinks he should feel. Cancer and Capricorn gravitate toward a life/reality that feels safe and centered. For example, both the crab and the sea goat love to cuddle, stay in bed all day, lounge around the house in pajamas and eat everything in sight! This axis seeks relationships/environments which promise longevity, stability and security. It is no small deal when the sea goat or crab devote themselves to another. However, the sea goat would do well to be more free and open in the heart. Cancer could likewise better learn to employ rationalism when her huge heart defeats the logical mind. Too much Capricorn makes us rigid and pessimistic. Too much Cancer makes us wail and worry.

With this full moon falling on Christmas Day, there may be some unwanted emotional drama, but the good news is that the crab and sea goat will work in tandem to make us feel as comfortable as possible, whether surrounded by family, friends or traveling solo on some great adventure. I suggest a ritual involving water and/or some Cancer Yoga.

To ascertain your personal Moon sign, click here.

Mantra: I listen to my heart

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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

Supermoon Lunar Eclipse in Aries ♈ Sep 27, 2015

Photo by Jimmy Westlake

The Supermoon Lunar Eclipse in Aries comes exact on Sunday, Sep 27 at 10:50 pm EST

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

I need to get something off my chest: aaaAAAAHHHHH! Ok, that’s better. All this lunar business…and it’s not over yet! Next up, a powerful Super Full Moon Lunar Eclipse following our Solar Eclipse in Virgo. This particular phase is known as the Full Hunter’s Moon and also as a “Blood Moon” as it will appear dark red at the time of the eclipse. This eclipse is a follow-up to the Lunar Eclipse in Libra of April, which was itself a follow-up to the Lunar Eclipse in Aries of October 8, 2014. Yes, this is just one in a series of eclipses falling on the Aries-Libra axis beginning in October 2013 and continuing through March 2016. Any themes/conflicts that predominated during any of these eclipses will now resurface. This phase also marks the midpoint of the astrological year, beginning in late March with the Super Solar Eclipse in Aries. The moon will rise at sunset, peak at midnight and set at sunrise.

The Sun and Moon in total opposition between Libra and Aries: Self vs other. Luna rounds herself to total majesty less than a week after the Sun enters Libra. I see this as a continuation of an energetic theme that’s here to stay for awhile: speedy manifestation, coming up to base camp sooner than expected. We’ll be meeting in the flames: primordial fire, rebirth, return to square one. We are rapidly entering a time of major Self-evaluation.

Axis of relationships

The Aries-Libra dichotomy is known as the relationship axis. The Universe is pushing us to address issues related to this polarity. Each eclipse is a check-up on our progress. Let’s meditate for a moment on the ruling planets of each sign, Mars and Venus respectively. Venus, ardent keeper of the peace, has difficulty with Mars, the self-assertive warrior drawing us back again and again to the ego. Mars charges full speed ahead with his brilliant personal agenda; Venus remains egalitarian and diplomatic. Mars would rather be brutally honest than tactful! We now have an opportunity to achieve balance between independence vs. dependence on others. How well are you meeting the needs of all? This does not necessarily mean that we are automatically aligned with Mars in this cosmic battle. In fact, if you’re like me, you might lean heavily toward Venus.

I remember very well how potent this eclipse was last year. I waited until it was too late to voice my truth and ended up leaving my job and apartment on unsavory terms. Although it still makes me unbelievably nervous, speaking up for myself is my priority at all times now. I never want to put myself in such a defensive position again. So this year I’m going to be ahead of the curve! If something comes up that’s bothering you or doesn’t feel right, don’t hesitate to open your throat with words of peace and understanding.

It is important to make changes before the eclipse rather than wait until something comes hurtling at you; eclipses reveal information suddenly, so you won’t have time to prepare! Having said that, any revelations or events at the eclipse are not novel - they’ve been bubbling below the surface for a long time and your intuition has probably been well aware of them. Therein lies another major lesson! Listen to your gut, act accordingly, avoid the mess. I feel it all as we wade deeper into this astrological year.

If balanced, we are confident and courageous, ready to move and do. The ram connects us with our inner leader, drive directed outward. Like a new star in the sky or a butterfly opening its wings for the first time, we bloom, stretch, reach, dancing joyously as though we have just discovered the magic of our bodies. I would like to emphasize, once again, that this full moon will be very intense. Eclipses are dramatic, forceful, passionate. How appropriate that the moon will be blood red in honor of the zealous ram! I suggest a ritual involving fire or some Aries Yoga.

To ascertain your personal Moon sign, click here.

Mantra: speaking Truth

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Supermoon in Pisces 🐟 Aug 29, 2015

The Full Moon in Pisces comes exact on Saturday, August 29 at 2:35 pm EST

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

This particular full moon is called the Harvest Moon, Corn Moon or Barley Moon. As I’ve discussed in recent posts, the Virgo cycle is one of symbolic harvest, so all of these names are perfect. In more ways than one, this full moon reaps the seeds we have sown. The moon will rise at sunset, peak at midnight and set at sunrise.

The Sun and Moon in total opposition between Virgo and Pisces: finite vs. infinite. The last full moon in Pisces fell in early September 2014. Any themes/conflicts that predominated then will now resurface. Luna rounds herself to total majesty less than a week after the Sun enters Virgo. I see this as a continuation of an energetic theme I’ve been feeling lately: speedy manifestation, coming up to base camp sooner than expected. We’ll be meeting in the water - at the ocean’s edge where all dissolves to One. After the tension of Quarter Moon in Scorpio #2, this phase will be a ceremony of sweet spiritual ecstasy.

Axis of infinity

Virgo and Pisces are markedly different creatures. Let’s meditate for a moment on the ruling planets of each sign, Mercury and Neptune respectively. Mercury can’t slow down, he’s got way too many ideas and words and tasks. Neptune, on the other hand, spends her entire existence in bottomless REM cycles. Whether she likes it or not, Virgo is inextricably tied to the goings-on of terrestrial life. I have compassion for Pisces; she is ultimately a fish out of water when we’re talking human incarnation. The Pisces soul yearns to return to her otherworldly homeland where the concepts of time and space are unknown. So here we are, with one foot definitively on Earth and the other quickly turning translucent, pulled by an unseen force to the outer cosmos.

What is the connection between the mundane and the extraordinary? We work here to build our golden temple there, in that place where we find no gold, no bricks, no temples. In yoga, for example, enormous emphasis is placed on day-to-day observances such as cleaning and maintenance. The rote work entailed in any practice such as yoga demonstrates that mystical insight will not surface until proper arrangements have been made here in earthbound life. Simple yet fundamental acts prepare us to see our bodies and the spaces which they inhabit as one and the same, to be treated with equal love and respect. You would be hard-pressed to find a yogi, shaman or mystic who does not have an unwavering daily regimen. Virgo demands pragmatism and organization, but these are mere means to an end. We surrender to particular methods only so that we may understand their connection to those planes and dimensions in which there is no separation between body, spirit, time or space.

I like to visualize this transit as a swimmer suspended in holy water, detached from physical limitations: flowing, folding, flowering, fading, reemerging again and again. Pisces is the state of mind we experience while in a trance. She expresses a desire to “leave this world” or perhaps transform collective reality as we know it so that it may more closely resemble her Neptunian bliss. Even Virgo herself may not realize that all of her work is leading to a state of being so divine that it cannot be named. The thought of starting here in order to get there is painful for some, myself included. In my feet the fishes swim in a ring of perpetuity, urging me to run directly to the ocean, down to her rocky depths.

Pisces and Virgo both want to be of service to the greater good. Virgo may become annoyed with Pisces, labeling her wishy-washy or touchy-feely. Too much Virgo makes us tight and rigid. However, Virgo reminds the fish that it is dangerous to ignore our surroundings; and Pisces teaches us that we are mechanical and insensitive when we fail to regularly tap in. My favorite art teacher once told me that we cannot create and analyze at the same time – these are two separate, conflicting processes. I feel it all as we begin our journey in Virgo’s realm - days filled with service to the Divine - yoga, meditation, proper diet, and dreams dreams dreams of what comes after. Confrontation of any kind is especially painful for the fish - unlike most, she lives so far away that when she must be drawn back to what is, she would honestly rather die again.

Keep your dreams, my friends, and take it easy on this full moon. Pisces is the sign of the addict - she likes to drink and be social, even when her inner voices are pleading otherwise! The Full Moon in Pisces is therefore a spectacle of maudlin humans bemoaning Life in the moonlit streets. Romantic, but not sexy. Ignore your intuition and you may pay the price! I suggest a ritual involving water or some Pisces 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: I dream

Full Moon in Aquarius ♒ July 31, 2015

The Full Moon in Aquarius comes exact on Friday, July 31 at 6:43 am EST

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

This full moon marks halfway between the Summer Solstice and Fall Equinox; it is known as Lunar Lammas. Lammastide is a traditional holiday in English-speaking regions of the Northern Hemisphere, falling upon the first harvest of the year. In more ways than one, this full moon symbolizes a reaping of the seeds we have sown. In the Great Lakes region, this phase is also known as the Full Sturgeon Moon because it coincides with abundant fish catches. The moon will rise at sunset, peak at midnight and set at sunrise.

The Sun and Moon in total opposition between fixed fire Leo and fixed air Aquarius: me vs we. The last full moon in Aquarius was a Supermoon in August 2014. Any themes/conflicts that predominated then will now resurface. The Leo cycle is ultimately an inward journey. Imagine yourself on this fiery quest. As the full moon rises, people gather from all directions on a mountaintop. Here we set aside our “stories” and sing as One.

Axis of identity

The Leo-Aquarius polarity works to achieve balance between the individual and the collective. Let’s meditate for a moment on the ruling planets of each sign, the Sun and Uranus respectively. The Sun emanates from the inside out, master of the ego / identity. Uranus is the rebel and nonconformist, dancing eccentrically to the beat of his own drum. On one end of the spectrum, we have regal Leo in his fullest expression: living through the heart, content to stay there without ever venturing beyond the confines of the Self. On the other lies Aquarius, wandering so far out in the cosmos that he struggles to cultivate awareness within. Leo lives in the here and now, in laughter, in the body, in the raw landscape of the ego’s unruly desires. The Full Moon in Aquarius yearns to explode outward, to use the Self as a vehicle for social empowerment on a global level.

Resisting the urge to talk/think/draw attention to the Self is more difficult during the Leo season. However, the Full Moon in Aquarius provides some respite from this tendency. Now we see through labels – color, class, nationality, gender, religion – and embrace the light of interconnectedness that shines within all beings, namaste: coalescence of the many into One. This transit brings to mind vision and prophecy. Breakthroughs will come quickly and without warning. The Aquarian mind is incredibly nimble and prone to tangents!

Not so tolerant after all

Opposite signs on the zodiac wheel have inherent differences, but they also have a lot in common. The balanced Aquarian possesses a self-assurance that the lion often lacks, despite appearances. However, this self-assurance all too easily turns to obstinance in the face of conflict. I have thus far described the water bearer as a relatively ego-less creature, but I’ve come to realize that the imbalanced Aquarian closely resembles his leonine counterpart: proud, forceful, totally blinded by the ego. My relationship to Leo is changing as a result of these recent revelations. Too much Aquarius energy makes life feel cold and unemotional; an overdose of Leo makes life feel too hot - think melodrama, unchecked passion, irrational emotional responses. I used to lean toward Aquarian ideals with the belief that the water bearer is more evolved and community-minded. And yet there is something beautiful in Leo’s rough, matter-of-fact reality, something that feels more genuine and intimate than the water bearer’s notorious aloofness.

Aquarius acquires an edge if he feels that his toes have been stepped on; altruism is rapidly replaced by dark shades of anger in the form of hard logic / “objective” intellectualization. The Full Moon in Aquarius may shut the heart down in favor of the left brain’s insistence on “rational” thinking. Aquarius loves spreading messages of social justice and equality to the rest of humanity. As such, he feels that his wisdom will revolutionize the world. Here we see again the fixed nature of Aquarius. The water bearer often struggles to understand other people; he is quick to judge and finds most people boring with no self-confidence or originality. We can properly channel this emotionally detached energy by remaining true to the Self, no bullshit.

The balanced water bearer weaves a universal story composed of many voices. If you’re feeling blocked, reach out to others who desire change. I suggest a ritual involving your community or circle. Hang in there. YOU are loved. Namaste.

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: humble

Full Moon in Capricorn ❍ July 1, 2015

The Full Moon in Capricorn comes exact on Wednesday, July 1 at 10:20 pm EST

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

All that we aspired to during the Cancer cycle now comes to culmination. This particular full moon was called the Full Buck Moon by the Algonquins of North America as it coincides with new antler growth on young male deer. It is also sometimes called the Thunder Moon in recognition of summertime storms. The moon will rise at sunset, peak at midnight and set at sunrise.

The Sun and Moon are now in total opposition between cardinal water Cancer and cardinal earth Capricorn: divine feminine vs. masculine energies. You may recall that we had a Full Moon in Cancer in the first week of 2015. We have now reached the other end, a reversal of the Cancer-Capricorn axis. Any themes/conflicts that predominated then will now resurface.

Moon vs. Saturn

The Cancer-Capricorn polarity works to achieve balance between what we feel and what is expected of us. Let’s meditate for a moment on the ruling planets of each sign, the Moon and Saturn respectively. The Moon looks out for the heart; they are really one and the same – deeply internal and categorically personal. Saturn is the iron-fisted patriarch of the zodiac, always on the straight and narrow, continually holding himself to society’s highest standards. On one end of the spectrum, we have loony Cancer in her fullest expression: delightfully irrational, following her heart all over the cosmos without hesitation, lost in her inner ocean. On the other lies Capricorn, so bound up in his own ideas of what should be that he never feels real freedom. Cancer abides in dreams, in feeling, in the raw landscape of the heart’s unruly desires. The Full Moon in Capricorn yearns to sweep it all together and make something out of it, to build something solid that feeds the soul’s thirst for structure and order.

The Moon rules Cancer, so we are currently swimming through the annual “lunar cycle.” As such, the full moon falling in this cycle is usually a trying time - why? Yes, the Moon is at her utmost peak, exercising goddess righteousness o’er all the Earth. Yet paradoxically, this is what precisely what makes her most uncomfortable. She prefers to operate behind the scenes, quietly moving from one phase to the next and working her magic on the internal body. The Moon does not plan or prepare, so when she is shoved into the spotlight, she doesn’t quite know what to do.

Inward journey

Opposite signs on the zodiac wheel have inherent differences, but they also have a lot in common. Cancer and Capricorn both seek security. The crab and sea goat feel a soul longing to put down roots and get settled early in life, whether physically or emotionally. Too much Cancer energy makes life feel like an out-of-control emotional rollercoaster where we cling fiercely to cloying comforts with sharp pincers. Too much Capricorn makes life feel rigid, with the mind seated firmly in the external world. The crab reminds the sea goat that it’s unhealthy for body and spirit to lean so heavily on what is, or perhaps more accurately, what appears to be. This leaves us unwilling or unable to relax and allow room for uncertainty and the joy found therein. And yet the sea goat reminds the crab that there is much to be gained from even the most rudimentary form of self-discipline.

To say that the Cancer-Capricorn polarity is between the heart and the head is an oversimplification. A more accurate delineation: Cancers see the heart as an organic and integral source of information, as do Capricorns, but the goat struggles to collate what he feels versus what he thinks he should feel. The Cancer cycle is an inward journey. Imagine yourself on this watery quest, now halfway to your core. As the full moon rises, a vibration gathers from all directions to meet in the middle of the ocean. Here we are clairvoyant, full of psychic wisdom, fearlessly tuning in to the flow of energy all around us. The Full Moon in Capricorn is a reminder that structure and discipline are worthy tools for reorganizing life and providing a bit of direction, but we must also recognize our true essence as mystical, surreal, complex - surrender to the tides with total abandon lest we silence the voices within!

Peace, love and goddess power

As stated, the Full Moon in Capricorn is hardly a walk in the park, but that doesn’t mean there’s anything inherently gloomy about this phase. In the same way that speaking our truth or living from the heart can incite fear and anxiety, the Full Moon in Capricorn is simply a test of character. What are you working on and how well are you doing? Where in life do you need more self-control? Use this earth energy to get some good work done, but keep in mind that earth is, by nature, heavy and resistant to change. Visualize new sprouts growing from a fire-ravaged forest floor. We can connect to the earth and still be light!

Watch for the tendency to be critical of the Self and others. Capricorns set the bar high then struggle to understand why everyone else can’t keep up. The sea goat would do well to learn a little empathy and compassion from the crab.

I suggest a ritual involving earth, such as planting seeds. You are loved. Namaste.

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: self-discipline

Full Moon in Sagittarius ❍ June 2, 2015

The Full Moon in Sagittarius comes exact on Tuesday, June 2 at 12:19 pm EST

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

All that we aspired to during the Gemini cycle now comes to culmination. This particular full moon was called the Strawberry Moon by the Algonquins of North America as it coincides with berry ripening season. In Europe, it is often called the Rose Moon. The moon will rise at sunset, peak at midnight and set at sunrise.

The Sun and Moon are now in total opposition between mutable air Gemini and mutable fire Sagittarius: intellect vs. spirit. What I feel most viscerally when I visualize this axis is actually harmony - this is one polarity in which the two ends seem to have more in common than not. You may recall that we had a Full Moon in Gemini the first week of December 2014. We have now reached the other end, a reversal of the Gemini-Sagittarius axis. Any themes/conflicts that predominated then will now resurface.

Mercury vs. Jupiter

The Gemini-Sagittarius polarity works to achieve balance between the mind and spirit. Let’s meditate for a moment on the ruling planets of each sign, Mercury and Jupiter respectively. Mercury rules the active, conscious mind; he is swift, versatile and restless. Jupiter is the jolly uncle of the zodiac, the giver of spiritual gifts, bearer of luck. What I’d like to elucidate with this comparison: real abundance comes only when we have first mastered the mind, and in so doing, become fully aware of our thoughts, habits and behavior.

Whereas Gemini abides effortlessly (yet perhaps a bit nervously) in the raw mindspace of waking life and external reality, the Full Moon in Sagittarius yearns to break through that physical reality, to chase after all that is intangible, all that feeds the soul’s endless desire for truth and understanding. The Gemini-Sagittarius polarity lies between words and wordlessness. Gemini immediately resorts to logic or conversation/writing in order to understand life intellectually, but Sagittarius innately recognizes that some things must be experienced to be known: as Tao master Lao Tzu decried, the way that can be named is not the Way. The twins stick together, deeply intertwined in the familiar; the archer shoots bow after fiery bow into the darkness in order to illuminate the unknown.

Open your mind!

Opposite signs on the zodiac wheel have inherent differences, but they also have a lot in common. Gemini and Sagittarius both find their freedom in the mind’s capacity to expand and absorb new information. However, the archer is more comfortable with mystery. There is a certain seriousness to the unemotional, ultra rational approach of the twins. Indeed, the archer is anything but serious. Too much Sagittarius energy makes life feel vague and careless. Too much Gemini makes us tight and rigid, seated firmly in the thinking mind. The archer reminds the twins that it’s unhealthy for body and spirit to lean so heavily on reason alone, unwilling or unable to relax and allow room for uncertainty and the joy found therein; and yet the twins remind the centaur that there is much to be gained from precision and accuracy.

Gemini and Sagittarius are both restless, seeking. The Gemini cycle is an epic journey full of twists and turns. Imagine yourself on this quest, now halfway to the destination. As the full moon rises, people gather from all directions to light an enormous bonfire. Presiding over the flames is Jupiter himself, resplendent in robes of brilliant gold and purple. He laughs and drinks and boogies with all the vibrant humans circling the fire; a drum beat fills the forest, feet pound the earth. The Full Moon in Sagittarius is a reminder that when the road seems to stretch forever and your pack is feeling impossibly heavy, this is cause to celebrate - the burning in your legs, the strain in your heart, the sweat dripping down your face, these are all signs that you are ALIVE, so DANCE.

Your mind contains the entire cosmos

Whereas Sagittarius can be escapist and in denial when imbalanced, Gemini thinks too much, caught in the mind’s incessant squabbling. The centaur sees the best in everyone and everything, always the optimist, but the twins are inclined to critique rather than hope for something more idealistic. Gemini is well acquainted with so-called “reality.” The twins pick apart everything that happens to/around them. Let’s come back to the profound harmony of the Gemini-Sagittarius axis. Those who embody both energies are incredibly open and intellectual, spontaneous and responsible. Be like fire rippling in the wind: a force of breadth fanning the spirit’s embers.

There’s a lot happening right now on this pale blue dot rocketing through space at 18 miles per second, astrologically and otherwise, so let the Full Moon in Sagittarius be a jubilation. Unlike the Full Moon in Scorpio of last month, we are lighthearted and carefree. I suggest a ritual involving fire - invite your neighbors too. You are loved. Namaste.

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: I invite the unexpected

Full Moon in Scorpio ♏ May 3, 2015

The Full Moon in Scorpio comes exact on Sunday, May 3 at 11:42 pm EST

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

All that we aspired to during the Taurus cycle now comes to culmination. This particular full moon is known as the Flower Moon or, according to The Farmer’s Almanac, “Mother’s Moon, Milk Moon, and Corn Planting Moon, mark[ing] a time of increasing fertility with temperatures warm enough for safely bearing young, a near end to late frosts, and plants in bloom.” The Moon will rise at sunset, peak at midnight and set at sunrise.

The Sun and Moon are now in total opposition between fixed earth Taurus and fixed water Scorpio: form vs. formlessness. What I feel most viscerally when I visualize this axis is day vs. night – Taurus basks in the visible light spectrum, Scorpio peers through the darkness with acute night vision. You may recall that we had a Full Moon in Taurus last November 2014. We have now reached the other end, a reversal of the Taurus-Scorpio opposition. Any themes/conflicts that predominated then will now resurface.

Venus vs Pluto

The Taurus-Scorpio polarity presents a wonderful opportunity to work on achieving balance between the senses and intuition. Let’s meditate for a moment on the ruling planets of each sign, Venus and Pluto respectively. Venus rules pleasure and leisure – she lounges in bodily luxury: sensual, sexual, hedonistic. Pluto is the part of our soul that yearns for rebirth. What I’d like to elucidate with this comparison: we cannot “break through” our own personal darkness without first cultivating health, conscious awareness and self-love in the body and immediate surroundings.

Whereas Taurus abides peacefully and effortlessly in the raw forms of physical space, the Full Moon in Scorpio yearns to transform that physical reality in order to see through it, to understand all that is intangible. Opposite signs on the zodiac wheel have inherent differences, but they also have a lot in common. Taurus and Scorpio both want to live a life of quality rather than quantity. The bull and scorpion equally desire total connection, whether that means skin-to-skin or soul-to-soul.

Simplicity vs complexity

Unlike the bull, Scorpio is attracted to crisis and volatility. This makes the imbalanced scorpion quite unpredictable. The bull lives primarily in the external environment, the scorpion below, investigating mysteries within. The conflict here is ultimately between simplicity and complexity. Our greatest challenge is, as always, to recognize the supreme importance of the spectrum. Are you connected to the au-delà? Or, alternatively, do you spend so much time wandering the cosmos that the present moment is neglected?

The endings and beginnings rendered by this full moon are likely a result of spiritual growth. Scorpio lives in the subconscious, particularly in the caverns we avoid. As such, this full moon has a reputation for intensity. Scorpio is the master of metamorphosis. Every time we reach a major turning point in life or make huge, life-altering decisions, scorpion energy is present. The Full Moon in Scorpio represents shift: changeover from one realm to another. Through Scorpio we are symbolically destroyed and renewed.

Your body contains the entire cosmos

Scorpio is more comfortable than Taurus exploring what lies beyond the horizon. Scorpios are often very interested in deep space, spirituality, abstract art, mysticism and the paranormal. However, too much Scorpio energy creates a whirlpool, trapping us in the recesses of the psyche, the past, obsessions, fears. And yet, too much Taurus energy cements us to the false idea that all we can see is all that is. Scorpio reminds the bull that conquering our fear of the unknown is an inevitable task; the bull reminds the scorpion that it’s perfectly acceptable to make sure that our bodies and physical environment reflect inner peace. Taurus molds, sculpts, shapes, builds, fortifies; Scorpio inquires, understands, knows, feels, desires. How can we reconcile this dilemma between that which is visible and invisible? By abiding in the knowledge that the entire cosmos can be known simply be meditating on the power of your very own mind and body.

The Full Moon in Scorpio reaches deep within the soul to understand our truth and purpose. It’s time now to ask: what does it all mean? However, to reach a certain level of understanding, we are forced now to examine even our “ugly side.” This full moon will not allow you to evolve without seeing yourself as you really are, flaws and all. Scorpion energy is often associated with death. In many ways, this is accurate. The lessons of the Full Moon in Scorpio are so all-encompassing and irreversible that it often feels like a part of us has died in the process.

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: I am powerful

Full Moon Lunar Eclipse in Libra - Apr 4, 2015

The Full Moon Lunar Eclipse in Libra came exact on Saturday, April 4 at 8:06 am EST

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

At the full moon we reap the seeds of our intentions. All that we aspired to during the Aries cycle now comes to culmination. This full moon was also a Lunar Eclipse, a follow-up to the Lunar Eclipse in Aries of last October 2014. This particular phase is called the Full Pink Moon because, according to The Farmer’s Almanac, it “heralds the appearance of the moss pink, or wild ground phlox—one of the first spring flowers. It is also known as the Sprouting Grass Moon, the Egg Moon, and the Fish Moon.” The Pink Moon was really a “Blood Moon” as it turned dark red at the time of the eclipse.

The Sun and Moon face each other in total opposition: cardinal fire Aries vs. cardinal air Libra: Self vs Other. The Aries-Libra polarity is between me and you. Indeed, this particular dichotomy is known in astrology as the relationship axis. Aries is the first sign of the zodiac: pioneering and fearless. I like to visualize the ram at dawn, standing proudly at the top of a mountain to welcome a new day, a new realm, a new cosmological cycle. Aries is associated with physical and sexual energy, masculinity and outward action. The ram embodies the essence of the following quote, written over the temple Delphi in ancient Greece: “Know thyself and thou shalt know the Universe and the gods.”

The Aries-Libra polarity presents a wonderful opportunity to achieve balance between modes of independence vs. dependence upon others. Unlike Libra, ardent keeper of the peace, Aries is self-assertive, drawing us back again and again to the ego. Aries would rather be brutally honest than tactful! However, we may learn now that our dreams and goals are made possible only when we are gracious to others. How well are you meeting the needs of both the Self and others? The ram wants us to charge full speed ahead with a brilliant personal agenda. The scale asks us to remain egalitarian and diplomatic. As with any polarity in astrology, our utmost duty is to simply be aware of how well we’re doing with each end of the spectrum.

This full moon proved to be quite powerful. If balanced, I hope you’re feeling quite enlightened and alive. This Lunar Eclipse is actually just one in a series of eclipses falling on the Aries-Libra axis which began in October 2013 and will continue through March 2016. This is the Universe’s way of pushing us to address issues embodied in this polarity. Each eclipse is a check-up on our progress. Don’t forget that we just had a Solar Eclipse too! I would like to emphasize, once again, that this full moon was very intense. Lunar Eclipses tend to be dramatic, forceful and passionate. In many ways, we are now rapidly entering a time of major Self-evaluation.

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: balance