WHAT'S UP


July 2023
Belinda C. Dunn

Capricorn Full Moon
July 3  @  7:39 am

Cancer New Moon
July 17  @  2:33 pm

Long and relaxed evenings, flowering fragrance drifting through the air, fireflies twinkling in the dusk . . . what's not to love about summer. In full swing, July is typically an active, recreational and fun filled month. July begins with a favorable and supportive Mercury/Sun conjunction in harmony with Jupiter. Grounded and practical, at the same time spontaneous and insightful, the mind flows in creative channels. Decisions are easier to come by as attitudes are more positive and optimistic.

In the early morning hours of July 3, signifying a culmination of recent weeks, a Full Moon brings focus, intensification and activation. With the Sun transiting through Cancer and Moon opposing in Capricorn, archetypal themes revolve around balance of career and family, work and play. It's possible to have it all, but juggling of priorities is most likely.

Leading into Independence Day celebrations, this Full Moon highlights domestic issues, personally and locally, against the backdrop of national interests. Founded 247 years ago, the country stands at a crossroads as Pluto returns to dig up the past, purge dysfunction, and enlighten the future trajectory. A reckoning of gigantic proportions, turning back is not an option, although many attempt to turn back the clock to an idealized past that no longer exists. Read on for my annual, “Astrological State of the Union,” but first let's continue with July.

On July 10, Mars finishes its transit through Leo and enters Virgo. Leaving behind playful, dramatic and fun loving Leo, Mars in Virgo prefers routine, taking up unfinished tasks, and resuming the daily grind of work, work and more work. Mars transits through Virgo until August 27, so keeping the balance between work and play is even more important, especially given the season. You may find yourself working at play, or working to make time for recreation. And for those fortunate ones, work is play.

In addition to Mars, Mercury is changing signs, leaving Cancer and entering Leo. However, in the final degree of Cancer, Mercury opposes Pluto on July 10 before it transitions into Leo. Here again is an important and demonstrable shift of focus. In this case, Mercury is the communicator, dredging up the past, uncovering the dross and gross, driving home the message that in order to move forward, it is necessary to address lingering issues. Emotions run high, even exploding into plain view. Mercury opposite Pluto tends to be forthright but controlling, frank but harsh. There are no easy answers here.

Continuing on to the next week, a New Moon on July 17 initiates the next lunar cycle. Both Sun and Moon join in Cancer, but opposite Pluto in Capricorn. Unspoken tensions can erupt, especially in the sensitive areas of home and family. In this current social, economic and political environment, pressures on the family unit are enormous. Overall, conditions on a variety of fronts tend to be uncertain and stressful, perhaps threatening and overwhelming. The tension carries through the entire week, culminating Friday evening as Sun exactly opposes Pluto (July 21).

Many astrological trends converge this week, making it one of the most important weeks of 2023. In addition to a New Moon, the Lunar Nodes change signs. Since January 2022, the North Lunar Node has been in Taurus, and South Lunar Node in Scorpio. Not only is the nodal cycle intimately connected with eclipses, but the nodes typify specific archetypal themes.

This week, exact on July 17, North Lunar Node enters Aries, and South Lunar Node enters Libra. Over the next 18 months, there is less emphasis on money and resources, and more emphasis on people and partnership. Of course, all these factors blend together, but there is a dawning realization of individuality within the context of relationships. The direction of growth is personal empowerment, self reliance and self sufficiency in order to establish and maintain harmonious alliances. Teamwork and cooperation takes on even more importance in securing a positive future for all. Combining the grit of Aries with the grace of Libra, strong partnerships can be forged for years to come.

This doesn't mean relationships will be easy, but they will be tested. Venus, the planet of love, is active and prominent this month. Transiting through Leo, Venus goes retrograde on July 22, the same day Sun enters Leo. Retrograde Venus indicates a backing up, perhaps turning away, to give space for all involved. Not only will specific parties and relationships be under review, but many people will find themselves looking deeply into personal motives, desires, attitudes and early programming. There may be a sense of coming back to square one, another swing at the bat to make or break alliances.

Venus will be retrograde until September 3, so this is not an overnight process. One of the core characteristics of Leo is authenticity, being real, not hiding behind the scenes, but dramatic and expressive. Cutting through detachment, denial, coldness and reserve, holding nothing back, passion drives people to love and be loved. But, it's a process, and the tenderness of Venus can soften the blow.

This transit of Venus is especially consequential for baby boomers, the Pluto in Leo generation (1939 – 1956). Depending on the birth chart,  the majority in this age group can expect intense interactions, and potent transformation. Now elders of the tribe, their wisdom and experience may be called upon, tried and tested for relevancy. In the school of life, experience can be a harsh teacher, but this isn't a time for blame and self-pity, but a time of reckoning and release.

This shift of the nodal axis brings humanity to a crossroads. From the standpoint of astrology, we're back to Pluto in the final degree of Capricorn in square to the lunar nodes for the remainder of 2023. To review, each zodiac sign has thirty degrees, and the last degree is technically called the anaretic degree. This sensitive point is literally called the fate degree, a critical degree of crisis, convergence and culmination.

A turning point of gigantic proportions, it is here that we find ourselves as individuals, a nation and world. The stakes are high, the pressures are mounting, where do we turn for answers and real solutions to the dilemmas in front of us?

Thinkers pontificate and leaders discuss, often throwing around the label, “existential crisis.” Out of curiosity, I looked up existentialism, defined as, “a chiefly 20th century philosophical movement embracing diverse doctrines but centering on analysis of individual existence in an unfathomable universe and the plight of the individual who must assume ultimate responsibility for his acts of free will without any certain knowledge of what is right or wrong, good or bad.” Whoa! No wonder so many people feel lost in a world supposedly devoid of meaning and purpose.

Against this backdrop of ideological confusion, the nation struggles to right itself, get back on track, embody and actualize the ideals put forth by the founding fathers. Ideals such as “life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness,” freedom for all, equality, unity in diversity. Everyday is a slippery slope, a quagmire that must be addressed and reckoned with in order to move forward.

The United States astrology chart for July 4, 1776 shows Neptune in Virgo on the mid-heaven, the highest point, overhead, emanating the idealism so characteristic of American values. But current trends show  Neptune is transiting through Pisces, the opposite of Virgo.

Imbuing the atmosphere with confusion, delusion and deception, many people are divorced from reality. And, as is so typical with Neptune's influence, they don't even know it. These trends work on behalf of the spinners of truth, the illusionists, those married to dogma, propaganda, hoaxes and scams. It's a dangerous influence, but in the end, just a mirage.

Astrology gives timing. Let's take a look, beginning with Pluto. Since Pluto has a 246 year orbit, last year was the first time in the nation's history that Pluto returned to the exact degree in 1776 (27 degrees Capricorn). Clearly, this stirred up a hornet's nest of unresolved issues, specifically around authority, government, race, gender, inequality, law and order.

But, as Pluto transits very slowly, the nation is in a critical stage of uncovering dysfunction along with tremendous pressure to evolve to the next level. Additionally, this year and next, transiting Pluto activates the progressed USA Pluto at 29 degrees Capricorn, so we're not out of the woods yet. Additionally, Pluto's transiting square to the lunar nodes is the epitome of a crossroads, an intersection of numerous factors, all with enormous consequence. In the end, this is a point of evolutionary pressure to update and upgrade fundamental structures and principles.

Just as in the country's founding, it's a long term process and project. It took another twelve years for the Constitution to be finalized in 1787. The chart for the Constitution shows Pluto in Aquarius, an inventive, egalitarian, socially conscious and progressive influence.

Currently, Pluto entered Aquarius last March, but has retrograded back into Capricorn. Again, Pluto will enter Aquarius next January 2024, only to retrograde back into Capricorn for a brief stay (September - November 2024). The technical term is “cusp,” a point of transition, the in between place of endings and beginnings.

However, it is November 20, 2024 when Pluto enters Aquarius for the long haul, a transit of 20 years. Pluto's return in the Constitution chart is 2032-33. Slowly, but surely, over the next decade, a fresh generation will come into play, a generation with an eye on survival,  a generation not afraid to examine the past, overturn norms when necessary, and rewrite the future more in keeping with present reality.

Meanwhile, both Saturn and Neptune transit through Pisces. Literally and figuratively, this planetary trend is a cosmic flushing of karmic residue. Toxic sludge is overflowing, blocking the drain, distorting reality. There is little to hold onto, nothing makes sense. Current struggles and travesties are temporary challenges, grist for the mill of planetary awakening. There will be many endings over the next several years, a profound time of purification, surrender and release.

All this to make ready for Saturn and Neptune entering Aries in May 2025. A rebirth of sorts, symbolizing the proverbial rainbow after the storm, 2025 will be here before we know it. By summer 2025, the powerhouse planets (Saturn, Uranus, Neptune, Pluto), transition into new territory. In air and fire signs, the atmosphere will be lighter, freer, more transparent. In harmonious support, the possibilities are endless in furthering the light, expanding potential, envisioning and manifesting a positive future in an increasingly connected global community.

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May 2023

Belinda C. Dunn

Scorpio Lunar Eclipse

May 5 @ 1:34 pm EDT

Mercury direct

May 14 @ 11:17 pm EDT

Taurus New Moon

May 19 @ 11:53 am EDT

Across the globe, many ancient traditions recognize, honor and celebrate the beginning of May. To this day, Gaelic/Celtic traditions are preserved in the celebration of Beltane. Known as a Cross Quarter Day, Beltane marks the halfway point between Spring Equinox and Summer Solstice. Children dance around a May pole, and leave baskets of flowers on neighbor's doorsteps. Communities gather around a bonfire to symbolically cleanse the dank, dark days of winter, and welcome the return of increasing sunlight.

In the Buddhist tradition, the Full Moon in May is known as Wesak festival, a commemoration of the birth, enlightenment and death of Buddha. Spiritually significant, the veils between dimensions are known to part, and guidance is more readily available to aspirants. It is a time for honoring the Masters, those that have gone beyond the constrictions of dense earthly consciousness to find freedom in the eternal NOW.

Turning to astrology, our Sun is transiting through Taurus. From the mundane perspective, Taurus is the zodiac sign of ownership, the keyword, “I have.” Yes, Taurus governs earthly possessions, and everything the senses can experience, but on an esoteric level, Taurus is the memory track.

For example, picture your favorite flower or favorite place. Remember the smells, feel the touch, allow memories associated with special moments to surface. Perhaps a flood of memories arise, and the experience becomes full bodied, even to the point of momentary transformation.

Now, all this is well and good with positive recall, but what about trauma, the exceedingly painful memories that linger, distort and deny present moment awareness? When these memories are triggered, humans are habituated to react in a variety of ways, most of which exacerbate the problem. negatively impacting others, and society at large. Everyone suffers hurt and pain, it is part of the human experience, but how one deals with this is a matter of choice.

So, what does this have to do with astrology, and the planetary trends for May, specifically? This brings us to the Full Moon Lunar Eclipse on May 5. All eclipses are powerful turning points, and this Full Moon is no exception. Sun is in Taurus, beckoning us outdoors, into the garden and the beauty of nature. However, Moon is in Scorpio, recognized as the most intensely emotional zodiac sign.

The powerful alignment and activation of eclipses is connected to the lunar node cycle of 18.6 years. Currently, the North Lunar Node is in Taurus, and the South Lunar Node in Scorpio. The growth point is Taurus, and the cultivation of gratitude and grounding. The South Node represents what is stuck, repetitive, habitual and unconscious.

More than likely, this Full Moon can intensify emotions due to deeply held animosity, past grievances and unresolved issues. Of all the zodiac signs, Scorpio struggles to forgive and forget. This is a challenge point of confrontation as the shadows of the past surge into view, personally and collectively. Leaders and nations on the world stage are especially susceptible to exaggerated power plays. The symbols speak volumes. Reminiscent of the garden, the serpent like scorpion hides, ready to strike, quick to defend.

However, the positive thrust of growth and opportunity clearly points to Taurus themes. In addition to North Lunar Node - Mercury, Sun and Uranus are currently transiting through Taurus. To use another gardening metaphor, this combination serves to prepare the ground; turning over soil, composting waste, digging out weeds, dealing with roots and stones that may compromise growth.

Especially relevant is Uranus transiting through Taurus (May 2018 – July 2025). Spending approximately 7 years in a zodiac sign, Uranus is the game changer planet, stirring up the status qua, not only insisting on change, but actively showing the way toward progress. To review, Uranus in Taurus highlights the fundamental areas of currency, banking, financial institutions, ecology, food production, natural resources, and the environment. Undergoing upheaval, and ripe for innovation, these specific areas tangentially affect almost everyone and everything.

One of the most notable examples, at the top of the list, climate change is no longer a fantasy. Floods, fires, landslides, and mega-storms are making it a reality. Whole populations are being displaced due to dwindling resources. The impact of fossil fuels on air quality is spurring on development of electric vehicles. Toxic explosions and poor water quality are opening eyes to the vital importance of clean technology.

On the cutting edge of the future, Uranus is the planet of radical and sweeping change. The common adage, “Necessity is the mother of invention,” speaks to the action of Uranus. This is just the beginning. Yes, there are things to wrap up, but for the most part, this entire month initiates a full on focus toward the future.

Progress depends on awareness, information and education. The month begins with Mercury, the planet of communication, retrograde in Taurus. It can be helpful to look back to April 20/21^st. Not only was there a Solar Eclipse in Aries, but Mercury went retrograde. While there can be frustrations and delays, this retrograde phase signifies the need for careful examination, planning, research and review. Taking the extra time is worthwhile and necessary in order to be prepared when Mercury goes direct on May 14.

Another important planetary trend begins as Jupiter enters Taurus on May 16^th. This is especially significant in that Jupiter has a twelve year orbit through the zodiac, spending approximately 12 months in a given zodiac sign. Therefore, over the course of the next year, the general atmosphere is more practical, down to earth, steady and stabilizing.

Of course, recent years have been anything but stable, in fact, unsettling and tumultuous. So this trend is relative to current conditions, but overall, most people will experience Jupiter in Taurus as the opportunity to take a breath, slow down, and “stop and smell the roses.“ Although many challenges remain, this is a phase of acclimation, defined as, “becoming accustomed to a new climate or new conditions,” the new normal. Jupiter in Taurus enhances the important qualities of resilience and tenacity in the midst of life's vicissitudes.

Offering a unique opportunity, the faster moving celestial bodies are lined up to activate Uranus very powerfully. Sun conjoins Uranus on May 9, Mercury conjoins Uranus on June 4, and Jupiter conjoins Uranus next spring, April 21, 2024. Computers can pinpoint exact dates, but in reality, watch for specific themes emerging this spring that continue to build over the next 12 months.

One of the most extraordinary qualities of Uranus is synchronicity. Be alert to random and weird happenings that appear to come out of nowhere. Spontaneous and radical realizations sweep away the past. Technology continues to advance at a dizzying rate. Perhaps initially disorienting for the general public, a burst of innovation reinforces a new trajectory toward the future. For example, what if extraterrestrials landed on the White House lawn? Although, I don't necessarily see this happening, the implications are mind boggling, and a fun way to think outside of the box.

Now, if this isn't enough . . . let's add Pluto into the mix. As mentioned in previous articles, Pluto just entered Aquarius. But, on May 1^st, Pluto goes retrograde, retracing its orbit for the next five months. In the process, Jupiter in Taurus will square off with Pluto, exact on May 17. Additionally, Mars enters Leo on May 20, and opposes Pluto. Known as a T-square, this planetary combination increases contradiction, but cuts through ambivalence, procrastination and resistance.

Simply put, all these factors translate into powerfully, consequential and transforming days, May 15 – 24. The words that come are, “Do or die.” Some relationships may hit a wall. Many situations can run amok, not as punishment, but as hard, cold facts bear down, and cannot be avoided any longer. It is a reality check of gigantic proportions. Why? Mars fights to survive and thrive. Jupiter enlarges and expands. Pluto digs up the dirt for evolution and transformation.

As a whole, humans are stuck between a rock and a hard place, with no easy remedies in sight, no ready solutions to fall back on. There is an intensity, an urgency to act, to fix, manage and control. It is likely, there will be those individuals, groups, leaders and countries that give into the pressure to assert control. Top down management, authoritarian proclamations, cumbersome regulations, inequitable application of laws, complicated theories . . . all these serve to topple false ideologies and free society from illusion.

What is Pluto's long term transit through Aquarius really mean? Simply put, it is power to the people. It's grassroots collations of engaged citizens saying loudly and emphatically, “Enough!” It is returning to the core values of one's inner heart, connecting with the reality of Earth's magnificence and nature's beauty. It is autonomy and freedom through taking personal responsibility. It is commitment to choose life sustaining and enhancing lifestyles.

All of the above is clearly the higher octave of Pluto in Aquarius, but we know Pluto has a dark and dirty side. Flashing in neon lights, the signs are already visible. Transiting through Aquarius for the next 20 years, technology is altering the human experience and experiment.

Scientific advances are rapidly revealing expanding universes beyond comprehension. Quantum psychics is unveiling a truer version of existence. Medical science is drastically improving health, longevity, and perception of the human body/mind complex. The on-going development of artificial intelligence holds both promise and peril.

So many assumptions, but little do we know. All the so called improvements and apparent progress are breeding a multitude of issues that must be addressed. Questions that Pluto in Aquarius will address over time. What are the short and long term effects of technology on the human mind and body? The effects of technology on young and impressionable minds? The potential power of the media to distract, persuade, delude and divide people? What about the core ethical and moral considerations of what is acceptable and unacceptable for society at large?

All these questions hit at the heart of what is means to be a human being in global community. Spoken like a true millennial, my daughter summed it up, “Look at all the problems technology is creating. It gives us something to do, but it can take over our life, if we let it.” Frankly, we nervously laughed at the absurdity of it all. And my mind flashed on my day, another day in the life of a baby boomer stretching to learn and adapt in this ever expanding landscape of technological wonder.

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April 2023

Belinda C. Dunn

Aries/Libra Full Moon

April 6 @ 12:34 am EDT

Aries Solar Eclipse

April 20 @ 12:13 am EDT

Mercury retrograde

April 21 @ 4:35 am EDT

The unmistakable signs of spring are everywhere, and April begins with a combination of inspired initiative and purposeful intention. Just as planting a garden is a combination of vision and experimentation, planetary trends provide a testing ground of possibility. It begins with preparing the ground for what is viable and productive in the long term. Some seeds sprout and grow into healthy plants, other seeds fall on barren ground.

There are numerous factors to consider in the manifestation process, and a Full Moon on April 6 illuminates the optimal way forward. Culminating with this lunation, the Sun in Aries powerfully activates and energizes both Jupiter and Chiron. Recently, Jupiter exactly conjoined Chiron (March 12) after months of building momentum around issues of self-reliance, courage, confidence, trust, healing, finding one's bliss, and following one's heart.

Aries is the zodiac sign of personal growth that supports acceptance of life on its own terms, without denial or rose colored glasses. In many cases, this process has required a genuine attuning to one's own path along with a willingness to go it alone, if necessary. The natural passion, independence and fortitude of Aries has tested the authenticity of many relationships both personal and professional.

The Full Moon astrology chart shows Sun/Jupiter/Chiron joined in Aries, a powerful symbol of initiative and opportunity. At the same time, Moon in Libra opposes these planets. As with any Full Moon, there is an atmosphere of intensity, promise and pressure, but in this case, relationships come to the forefront. Often taken for granted, relationship skills develop over time with maturity and self awareness, listening and learning as well as honest communication. It is not easy to tame the needs and drives of the ego self in order to build these skills. In reality, for most humans, it takes a lifetime.

It can be helpful to watch for matters coming forward the first week of April. There is tremendous momentum to get the ball rolling. But the question remains. . . to what degree are your goals supported by others? Is it necessary for others to understand or join you? In some cases, there may be a clash, a need for clear communication, a standing up for yourself. In other cases, people around you may be fully supportive and cheering you on. In the end, it doesn't matter, as these planetary trends place the focus on being true to yourself.

As the days and weeks of April unfold, these themes continue to emerge, culminating in a Solar Eclipse on April 20. In the final degree of Aries, this eclipse sets the stage and seals the deal. Perhaps months of contemplation, reflection and preparation have brought you to this point. Perhaps circumstances shift and change abruptly, forcing your hand.

What tends to be true for any eclipse, solar or lunar, is the revealing of what has been hidden, but working on a subconscious level. Astrologer Lorna Bevan writes, “Eclipses are the dramatic cosmic wild cards in our horoscopes. They shake us out of feelings of complacency so that we can move from one level of maturity to another. They are some of the most dramatic tools the universe uses to get us to pay attention to areas in our life that need to change. They uproot us, surprise us, and get us moving to a higher plane, and they work very rapidly.”

A deep dive into the archetypal meaning of Aries can elucidate current trends, especially the long term effects of a Solar Eclipse in Aries. Aries is associated with Mars, the planet of action. The word that comes is dynamic, defined as, “characterized by constant change in activity or progress; positive attitude, full of energy and new ideas.” The noun for dynamic is, “a force that stimulates change or progress within a system or process.”

On the personal level, this Solar Eclipse in Aries highlights those areas of life that can be enriched through action, accomplishing goals that demand exertion and stamina, such as physical fitness and healthy competition. Aries instills a tremendous boost of motivation and entrepreneurial know-how. In combination with Jupiter in Aries, it is advisable to grab hold of this positive momentum like a lifeline for months to come.

Mars energy is very passionate, albeit impulsive, forceful and raw, and will fight for justice driven by the perception of what it “thinks” is right. Therefore, the tendency to battle it out and force solutions, underscores the need to choose your battles wisely. This eclipse can bring out the very best in selfless and heroic acts. Admittedly, in some cases, it can bring out the worst of human nature in acts of control and aggression.

From the planetary perspective, there are some strong modifying factors. Mars just entered the zodiac sign of Cancer on March 25 This is an important development after seven months of Mars in restless, here, there and everywhere Gemini. Throughout April, and most of May, Mars in Cancer supports an instinctive retreat to the quiet and safety of home. Like a crab burrowing into the sand, there is a settling of outer drives to take care of domestic matters, such as home improvements, gardening, landscaping, family interactions, and emotional well-being.

Additionally, Mercury enters Taurus on April 3, and due to a retrograde phase, Mercury transits through Taurus until June 11. Harmoniously blending with Mars in Cancer, attention flows to stabilizing and simplifying daily life. The welcome practicality of Taurus serves to stabilize and integrate security needs on many levels.

Mercury is retrograde from April 21 through May 14. Taurus is the zodiac sign of ownership, exchange, currency, banking and financial institutions. Due to recent bank failures, repercussions may continue to ripple through society. The degree to which effects are felt is linked to shifting value in the marketplace, public trust and consumer confidence.

No matter how outer conditions show up, this retrograde phase is an evaluation of personal finances, income and investments. Mercury retrograde is always a time for careful review in order to make informed decisions. This retrograde can really drive home the necessity to stay grounded, ensure the basics, and maintain stability during the inevitable cycles of economic fluctuation.

On April 20, the Aries Solar Eclipse is followed by Sun entering Taurus, and Mercury going retrograde on the 21^st. The shift will be apparent and palpable. As Mercury goes retrograde, it is within orb of influence with Uranus. This initiates a remarkable activation of Uranus in its long term transit through Taurus (2019-2026). In and of itself, this transit shakes things up for purposes of reconstruction. Uranus, the wild card planet, frees up energy, and is known for sudden turnarounds in the midst of dead ends, limitations, and dysfunction.

This brings us to April 22, the annual recognition of our precious Earth, and the vital importance of preservation of endangered species and natural habitats. How appropriate for our Sun to be in Taurus for Earth Day. In 1970, over half a century ago, the first Earth Day was recognized, and the movement continues with more urgency than ever before. The combination of Sun, Mercury and Uranus in Taurus heightens awareness of human impact on the environment, climate change, sustainability, earth sciences and green technology.

All planets have been direct since mid-January. Mercury will be the first to back off, followed by Pluto going retrograde on May 1^st. Thus, the final week of April brings a pause combined with Pluto's intensity. The long awaited Pluto transit through Aquarius is just beginning. This year we get a taste of Pluto in Aquarius (March 23 – June 11). Pluto retrogrades back into Capricorn for the rest of 2023, only to return to Aquarius in early 2024.

Astrology is a language of archetypal symbols, and Pluto is a generational planet affecting the evolution of collective consciousness over the span of generations. Each generation builds upon the other against the backdrop of the prevailing zeitgeist, defined as, “the general intellectual, moral, and cultural climate of an era.” Historian and astrologer Richard Tarnas states, “One of the things that's crucial about understanding the whole idea of world transits is they represent very powerful archetypal wave forms that surge into the collective psyche, into the given culture, at a given time.”

The transition of Pluto into Aquarius takes place over several years, but it is November 2024 when Pluto enters Aquarius for the long haul, remaining in Aquarius for the foreseeable future, until 2043. The symbol for Aquarius is the water-bearer pouring forth the elixir of life upon planet Earth. Dwelling in the skies, above it all, Aquarius helps humanity look to the heavens for meaning, ultimately revealing the true purpose of human existence in the vast and undiscovered potential of cosmic consciousness.

It is clear to see, humanity stands on the threshold of unprecedented evolutionary development. Across a wide spectrum of human history, nothing like this has happened before. The stakes are high, there are no road maps to follow. On the positive side, Pluto in Aquarius promotes invention, innovation and adaptation, all necessary to survive and thrive in this new world dawning.

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March 2023

Belinda C. Dunn

Pisces/Virgo Full Moon

March 7 @ 7:40 am (EST)

Spring Equinox

March 20 @ 5:24 pm (EDT)

Aries New Moon

March 21 @ 1:23 pm (EDT)

The fields lay fallow, harvest long over, we are in the final weeks of winter as our Sun orbits through Pisces, the last sign in the zodiac wheel. Stoking the fire with wood yet again to warm chilled hands, the flames are hypnotic, and the gazer is easily transported into the luminous and liminal states of consciousness that Pisces knows so well. As if floating on cosmic currents, reflection and relaxation come naturally, “far from the madding crowd.”

The planet associated with Pisces is Neptune. Dreamy and imaginative, but often delusional and confusing, Neptune is quite strong this month, and we will explore specifics later in this article. As the final zodiac sign, Pisces governs the areas of life known for seclusion, perhaps even confinement; hospitals, prisons, monasteries, convents, and spiritual retreat centers, east and west. Environments conducive for healing, what these “places” have in common is solitude and quietude, and in many cases, redemption and reform.

Our Sun is transiting through Pisces, and on March 7 the Moon in Virgo opposes Sun providing the illumination of a Full Moon. Always a critical time in the lunar cycle, this is a phase of exposure and culmination. All issues on the table, the instinct is to clear the way by releasing what is no longer needed. In your home, this can be sorting out the clutter and giving unused items away. On the emotional level, it's an optimal time for forgiveness, simply allowing haunting memories to dissolve away, once and for all. This Full Moon supports physical body cleansing, and fine tuning of diet and lifestyle.

Another planetary factor contributing to a pervasive sense of completion involves Saturn and Pluto. Both planets have come to 29 degrees in the zodiac signs Aquarius and Capricorn, respectively. Considering that each zodiac sign covers 30 degrees in the 360 degree zodiac cycle, 29 degrees is considered to be a “fate degree.”

Technically known as the anaretic degree, this is a very significant, signaling pressure mounting to handle any issues that have been put off. A common habit of human nature is to avoid difficulties through procrastination. Of course, this happens in our personal lives, but on the larger social level this tendency has become very problematic.

For example, in numerous instances, those in charge continue to put a band aid on problems to avoid addressing serious underlying issues such as infrastructure, debt, immigration, homelessness, proliferation of guns, partisan bickering, just to name a few. Over and over again, “kicking the can down the road,” does nothing but delay the obvious need for reform and real solutions. Coming to a critical head, these planetary trends present an unavoidable reckoning with reality on many levels of our personal and collective experience.

First, let's consider Saturn in the final degree of Aquarius, entering Pisces on March 7. A long term trend, Saturn marks the cycles of our lives, transiting through Pisces for the next two years. For those sensitive to energies, the shift will be quite notable throughout the month of March. A sampling of archetypal themes of Saturn in Pisces include: oceans, water supply, pollution, foundations, territorial boundaries, assistance for the destitute, substance abuse, drugs (pharmaceutical and recreational), prison reform, health care, quantum physics, practical spirituality, ideals/beliefs/ideology, collective spiritual awakening.

Next let's consider Pluto orbiting in its 246 year cycle. A small planet with enormous implications, Pluto is a generational planet. Throughout this year, Pluto is wrapping up a fifteen year transit through Capricorn. Entering Aquarius on March 23, Pluto will spend several months in the zodiac sign of the Water Bearer, then retrograde back into Capricorn mid-June, returning to Aquarius in January 2024.

However, Pluto will hover around the intense, fated, consequential, and pivotal anaretic degree for many months this year and next. Underscoring the pressure to evolve in the completion of one era transitioning into what's next, Pluto will be in 29 degrees of Capricorn, September/October/November 2024. Surprisingly, but appropriate and fitting, the next presidential election is destined to be a major turning point for the nation and world.

Pluto transits through Aquarius until 2044! While we will observe and interpret Pluto in Aquarius many times, here are some of the archetypal themes: futurism, AI, technology, science, space exploration, extraterrestrial lifeforms, global coherence, quantum field, community, human rights, evolution, sustainability and survival. Like a rocket ship leaving the heavy gravitational field of Earth, Pluto in Aquarius will be an acceleration beyond what has been known and explored so far. Hard to predict, but fascinating to watch.

In addition to Saturn and Pluto changing zodiac signs, Mars leaves Gemini and enters Cancer on March 25. This is especially significant given that Mars has been in Gemini since late August 2022. Through autumn and winter months, Mars in Gemini has been restless, exploring, moving, hard to pin down. A multitude of options have emerged, many voices loud and clear. The need for flexibility and adaption has never been greater, especially when direction changes like wind, or it appears nothing is moving forward.

Mars is in Gemini in the USA astrology blueprint, and the basic drive of the nation is to explore, educate, communicate, and establish common ground across a diverse population. Mars is the archetypal warrior wisely wielding the two edged sword, aiming to build consensus and maintain peace. The highest expression of Mars is the right use of will and intelligence for constructive good.

However, the Mars transit concluding this month, has been harsh and uncompromising on the social level. In stressful aspect to Neptune, an aura of deception, confusion, mayhem and malaise has stymied forward movement for months, if not years. Echoing across the airwaves, many untruths are promoted in the spin, contradiction and distraction of media.

However, on March 14, the third and final square of Mars to Neptune has the potential to cut through the fog with a crescendo of consequences for those entities promoting lies for personal and financial gain. Additionally, March 15 – 17, Sun and Mercury conjoin Neptune to really drive home the message.

Watch this entire week for propaganda, explosive exposes, exclamatory statements, and sensitive revelations. Personally and collectively, the blinders are off during this dramatic turning point of a week. Like lancing a festering boil, what comes to the surface may be difficult to see, but over time, a sigh of relief along with turning the page on the past, makes it all worthwhile.

Feeding into a palpable energy shift, Sun enters Aries on March 20 with an Aries New Moon the next day. Initiating spring in all its glory, the equinox signals a sacred passage into another turn of the zodiac wheel. Primordial and pure, the air is filled with hopeful expectancy. From the standpoint of astrology, this is the most auspicious and powerful time to set intentions and initiate long term goals, precisely because of manifestation potential.

Not only is Sun and Moon in Aries, but the New Moon astrology chart shows Mercury, Chiron and Jupiter all in Aries. Similar to having the wind at one's back, cosmic currents provide a burst of encouragement, a chance to stand back up, and begin again.

Of special relevance this month is Jupiter conjoining Chiron, exact on March 12. A momentum has been building since Jupiter entered Aries last year. This planetary combination intensifies the healing potential of self reflection, personal responsibility, and following through on urges from one's innermost, true essence. Even in the face of doubt and despair, this living spark dwells within, stepping forward with radical courage and bold action.

March draws to a close with an enthusiastic boost of verve and vitality. On March 26-28, Mercury conjoins Jupiter & Chiron. Clarity and direction overflows into April as Sun in Aries conjoins Chiron and Jupiter (April 5 – 11). It's all about taking initiative when so moved. These coming weeks are a culmination of Jupiter's transit through Aries that started last spring, and this Spring Equinox and New Moon are super charged like no other. Considering Jupiter has a twelve year cycle, and Aries is new beginnings, the long term implications are enormous.

The key phrase for Aries is, “I am.” So simple, and yet so profound. It can be helpful to consider all the ways life has pushed you to grow, breaking free of habitual comfort zones. For example, learning to say, “No!” Going it alone, when necessary. Being OK with not knowing every detail, even going out on a limb to follow your gut instinct, and pursue your passions.

Aries is the quintessential trailblazer, cutting a path through the underbrush for others to follow. But, Aries doesn't look back, and could care less about leading the pack. The Aries energy says, “Just do it,” and everything else falls into place.

The entire zodiac wheel is contained within your personal astrology chart calculated from the time, date and location of your birth. Aries shows up in each chart as the area of life that is receiving an upgrade, a boost of inspiration and direction. Just as spring is the season of renewal and rebirth, consider the ways life is giving you another chance to bloom as the extraordinary and unique being you are, and will always be.

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February 2023

Belinda C. Dunn

Leo/Aquarius Full Moon

February 5 @ 1:28 pm

Pisces New Moon

February 20 @ 2:06 am

February begins with all planets direct, all systems GO! Pulling out of the starting gate after nine weeks of Mars retrograde (October 29 – January 11), many obstacles and delays fall away in a burst of momentum, a welcome relief. In fact, all planets are direct through February and March. Direct means just that . . . straight, forward, on target, but what does this really mean?

Astrologers pay attention to the apparent motion of planetary bodies, using the terms direct, stationary and retrograde. In reality, we know planets cannot go backward, but it is strictly from our vantage point on Earth. From all appearances, a planet can move through a zodiac sign, then slow down, pause, and reverse its passage until pausing again, stationing direct to move forward retracing its path. As obtuse and illusory as this appears, like clockwork, the effects are generally very apparent, especially in terms of timing.

When a planet returns to the exact degree of its station retrograde, it signifies a completion of the phase, and entering new territory. For example, Mercury went retrograde on December 28 @ 24 degrees Capricorn. Mercury went direct on January 18, returning to 24 degrees Capricorn on February 7.

Therefore, during the first week of February we will see a wrap-up of mindsets, projects, matters, topics and decisions that may have been lingering for months. This is especially the case as Mercury conjoins Pluto on February 10, in a dramatic and grand finale. Soon after, on February 11, Mercury enters the next zodiac sign of Aquarius, a clear signal that 2023 is well on its way.

Another example involves Jupiter's transit through Aries. Jupiter went retrograde on July 28, direct on November 24, but finally enters new territory on February 14, which happens to be Valentine's Day. In this case, you may reflect on the new directions you felt last spring when Jupiter entered Aries. At that point, you may have identified areas of life that no one else could do for you, but from the depths of your being you felt a keen rising up of direction along with a good boost of self reliance. Perhaps like a young child that says, “I can do this myself. This is mine to do.”

It may have taken months of gathering courage, refining the dream, going back to the drawing board again and again to double check, all in preparation for Jupiter in Aries. A leap of faith, a gigantic push of can-do initiative, in many ways, only now is it possible to get the year underway. Jupiter transits through Aries until May 16 when it enters the next zodiac sign of Taurus, a grounding and manifesting influence.

Early in this month, shedding light on terrestrial matters, a Full Moon is exact on February 5. In this case, the awe inspiring illumination occurs with Sun in Aquarius and Moon in Leo. Whenever these zodiac energies are activated the themes of leadership and group consciousness arise. In general, a leader needs a group to lead, and conversely, a group typically functions best with some type of leadership. This applies to governments, social groups, organizations, and the family unit.

In the current social environment, there is often a dearth of quality leadership. Glorifying power and attention, strong personalities vie for leadership positions, but the essential qualities of effective leadership are often missing. Leading by example, the true leader demonstrates, to the best of their ability, the admirable traits of responsibility, capability, honesty, humility, altruism, and good will for all.

This Aquarius/Leo Full Moon powerfully illuminates leaders and those they purport to serve. Stirring up a multitude of extreme contradictions, Uranus, the planet of revolt and sudden change, is in tense aspect to both Sun and Moon. Suggesting images of the tower in the Tarot cards, this is a tower moment. And not only this, activating in the fixed signs of Taurus/Leo/Aquarius, long standing conditions are toppling, collapsing, shaken to the very foundation.

In the world of men, leaders rise and leaders fall. Dynasties rise and dynasties fall. Nations rise and nations fall. The most stubborn, intractable and defended personalities may attempt to dig in, but there is little they can do to stem the tide of public opinion. Many leaders may find themselves hard pressed to maintain power and influence in the throes of these planetary alignments, unless there is accountability, and a true reckoning.

These themes will continue to roll out through the coming months and years, especially as Pluto enters Aquarius on March 23. Heralding a new era of, “power to the people,” this game changer of a planet will continue to expose and hold leaders to task for their actions.

From the personal perspective, the Sun's annual transit through Aquarius (January 20 – February 18), highlights the importance of freedom to express yourself in alignment to core values, and your unique essence. It can be quite exhilarating to throw off the shackles of conformity, and let your true self shine. Additionally, the Full Moon in Leo enhances the vital importance of fun, play, spontaneity and creativity.

As always, Venus is visible and shining in the night sky during February. Transiting through Pisces (January 26 – February 20), Venus supports tremendous heart expansion beyond self interest to experience transcendental compassion. This is such a gift to easily drop prejudice and judgment of self and others to realize common bonds of affection, no matter what.

Speaking to our humanity, and the human condition which includes suffering, Venus in Pisces helps to dissolve separation, victimization, hopelessness and helplessness. This trend increases and culminates on February 15 as Venus conjoins mystical Neptune. Thus, the planet of human love joins the planet of spiritual love beyond all boundaries. Your heart may go out to others, and watch for opportunities to assist and offer solace to those in need.

Over recent months, there has been a big focus on Mars in Gemini. Finally, after 10 weeks of retrograde, Mars is picking up speed. Most people and projects will benefit from an uptick in energy, vitality, momentum and direction. Mars will spend all of February in the final stages of Gemini, retracing its orbit and preparing to enter new territory mid-March. A day to watch is February 5 when Venus meets Mars in a stressful square aspect. This isn't a big deal, but relationships may be stretched to accommodate the needs of all parties. Mars in Gemini can be all over the place, while Venus in Pisces prefers quiet, creativity, romance, and mystical receptivity.

This brings us to the New Moon in Pisces on February 20. In the early degrees of Pisces, Moon joins Sun to plant seeds of intention for the next lunar cycle. Signaling the final weeks of winter in the northern hemisphere, in preparation for spring, this lunation is introspective and reflective. In the dead of winter, taking a long winter nap, nature withdraws to root deeply, restore and rest.

As the last sign in the zodiac wheel, Pisces is about relinquishing control over what is uncontrollable. It is also about the blessings and benefits of living spirituality. So often humans turn away from spiritual connection as something abstract, fanciful and unobtainable. Many names, forms and attributes are given in attempts to define Source, when in reality, life itself is a manifestation of spirituality. Living a spiritual life simply means choosing and accepting love, lightness, joy, humor, compassion and peace. It isn't rocket science, but makes all the difference in the world.

During this month of quiet receptivity, you may receive practical and inspiring guidance to carry into March, and years to come. This New Moon presages a major planetary transit, Saturn entering Pisces on March 7. This shift will be real and palpable as Saturn travels through the most mystical zodiac sign for the next three years. While we will return to this topic many times, for now, suffice it to point out, Saturn in Pisces can initiate a spiritual renaissance on planet Earth.

Together with Pluto changing signs in March, this is a preparatory month. If you notice certain things are ending in both your awareness and life circumstances, this is all for the good. We know humanity stands on the precipice of great challenge, but extraordinary potential. We are, after all, in the second decade of the 21^st century. Technology is developing at a dizzying rate, weather related disasters are increasing exponentially, collapse of habitats is only too real, and humans must adapt to survive.

Saturn and Pluto will help us do just that. Orbiting through the zodiac signs of world service, Aquarius and Pisces, we are destined to realize our common bonds, the interdependence of each and every species. On one hand, dogmatic, conditioned and destructive belief systems can fall away to reveal a galactic heritage. On the other hand, the expansion of consciousness will literally call forth revelation, and renewed purpose in what it means to be a human being. Truly, the journey is just beginning, and the final frontier awaits discovery!

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January 2023

Astrologer Belinda C. Dunn

Capricorn/Cancer Full Moon

January 6 @ 6:08 pm EST

Mars direct

January 12 @ 3:56 pm EST

Mercury direct

January 18 @ 8:12 am EST

Aquarius New Moon

January 21 @ 3:53 pm EST

As the Earth turns in perfect concert, New Year celebrations, one after another, burst out across the globe, saying goodbye to the past while ringing in the new. For most, there is joyful and gleeful anticipation of a clean slate, a chance to begin anew. For many, anticipation mingles with dread, tainted by real and desperate conditions, just another date manufactured by adherence to the Gregorian calendar.

In this realm of contrast, on this small, blue/green gem of a planet, we don't have to ascribe meaning as much as to know there is meaning behind all events on planet Earth . . . if one looks for it. Finding and making meaning in this apparently random cosmos is what humans do best as an essential part of our shared humanity.

It is winter in the northern hemisphere, and 2023 begins on a somber note. The stinging, biting, cold wind of reality is blowing up a storm. Not only is Sun in Capricorn, but Mercury, Venus and Pluto join in a rare conjunction, applying a powerful punch of truth and consequences.

Let's take a look at Mercury first. Tracking its motion is a reality check, giving many clues as to decisions, and timing in general. Mercury entered Capricorn on December 6. You may have noticed a more grounded and realistic state of mind. Mercury in Capricorn is optimal for organization, and identifying priorities in the step by step process of getting the job done. But, just when the plan appeared to be laid out and doable, Mercury went retrograde on December 29^th. For some people this means going back to the drawing board, and making new plans. For others, this signifies the real work involved in manifestation aided by the diligent, patient and methodical nature of Mercury in Capricorn.

Mercury goes direct on January 18, an indication of progress based on the previous weeks of review. At this point, Mercury will retrace its tracks, continuing in Capricorn until February 11 when Mercury enters Aquarius. Therefore, from early December to mid-February, there are nine full weeks of stops and starts, all in reckoning with reality. However, there is a fine line between dealing with issues in a realistic way, and/or giving in to cynical and fatalistic thinking.

To grasp the importance of this transit, we go back to Pluto. Telling the story of collective and evolutionary consciousness, Pluto has a 246 year orbit, spending approximately 14-15 years in each zodiac sign. Pluto entered Capricorn in 2008, a year marked by the conclusion of Bush's presidency along with revelations of financial turmoil, corporate greed, and massive bank bailouts. Tremendous and unprecedented developments came in November with Obama's election, and his campaign slogan, “Yes, we can!”

The years since have brought more and more revelations of the hidden activities of governments, financial institutions, corporations, and so much more. In many cases, the underpinnings of power have been exposed for what they are, a vain attempt to maintain control, at any cost. Acting without regard for the environment, people, society, and sovereign countries, strong armed bullies have run roughshod over human decency and common goodwill.

These days are over. Really? You may ask. But, now that Pluto is in the final degrees of Capricorn, its work is largely done. This year, March 23^rd, to be exact, Pluto enters the next zodiac sign of Aquarius. While humans, and the planet, may be on the brink of extinction, a whole new era is dawning on planet Earth.

In the meantime, Pluto transiting at 27-29 degrees of Capricorn will bring many conclusions throughout the year. In numerous dramatic scenarios, the curtain will close, falling on an empty stage. The once revved up audience is ready to move on, no longer interested. Other more important and compelling matters begin to emerge, ready to take center stage, marking 2023 as a year of transition.

As the year gets underway, there are three significant go ahead, green lights in January. In addition to Mercury direct, Mars goes direct on January 12, and Uranus on the 22^nd. Altogether, these planets give a tremendous boost to any and all projects that have been delayed, or on hold during autumn months.

As the planet of action, Mars is especially pertinent. Let's review, Mars entered Gemini on August 21. It was full speed ahead until a sharp retrograde turn on October 29. On the energetic level, this may have felt like approaching an enormous hurdle, or even running into a brick wall. Issues cropped up, and circumstances demanded a pause of reorientation, along with careful planning in order to move forward effectively.

Mars remains in Gemini through winter months, completing this lengthy transit around the Spring Equinox. Since Gemini is the zodiac sign of communication, media, education, travel, transportation, neighbors and relatives, you may have found one or more of these areas strongly activated.

Currently transiting through Taurus, Uranus has been retrograde since August 24. This combination has produced extreme fluctuations in market value, currency, corporate funds, and financial institutions. When combining the freedom and inventive urge of Uranus with Taurus, the zodiac sign of money, we have seen the development and rise of cryptocurrency as a means of digital transaction. During the retrograde period, one of the largest exchanges collapsed, resulting in more efforts to regulate this method of exchange. Over the next three years, it will be fascinating to see how Uranus in Taurus continues its experiment with digital currency.

Uranus plays a key role during the Full Moon activation on January 6. In harmonious alignment with Sun and Mercury in Capricorn, watch for positive developments in practical matters; profession, career, investments, property, finances. As much as Uranus implies sudden change, in the earth element, there is a longing for stability amid the push for progress. Additionally, Jupiter transiting in Aries, gives an extra dose of purposeful entrepreneurship. With elections over, congress back in session, and people back to work, many projects are able to thrive, and benefit from this planetary confluence.

Sun enters Aquarius skies on January 20, and the Moon soon follows in a New Moon on the 21^st. Marking the Chinese New Year on the 22^nd, this annual celebration always follows the first New Moon of any given year. In the very early degrees of Aquarius, this auspicious joining of Moon with Sun plants the seeds for another lunar cycle as well as the year of the Rabbit. All together, these factors initiate a year of good fortune as the Rabbit totem is known as lucky, patient, calm and gentle.

Astrologically, Aquarius is the zodiac sign of futurism, innovation, experimentation and progress. Forward thinking, Aquarius is more about where we are going, than where we have been. Like a rocket ship leaving the gravity of Earth, this New Moon in Aquarius instills a tremendous boost of powerful intention. Leaving the orbit of dense reality, Aquarius is airy, light, free, mentally creative and visionary.

Additionally, there are two planets in Aquarius, Venus and Saturn. Venus is in Aquarius most of January, from the 2nd to 26th. As the planet of love, Venus in Aquarius supports equality, human rights, friendship and community involvement while giving permission to love life and live free. Rigid social conventions fall by the wayside as each and all are unique in their own way. “Dancing to the beat of your own drum,” sums up Aquarius.

This brings us to Saturn in Aquarius. It takes Saturn approximately 30 years to transit through the entire zodiac. Spending 2½ years in each sign, Saturn marks the cycles of our lives as well as social and cultural trends. Now in the homestretch, Saturn is completing its transit through Aquarius this winter, entering Pisces on March 7, 2023.

We can look back over the past two years, and consider the themes of Saturn's transit through Aquarius. Of course, themes around freedom abound, but what really is freedom? As much as freedom is espoused as a core value, especially in the United States, there are many nuances and misunderstandings. In fact, freedom cannot really be freedom if actions bind an individual or group to destructive consequences, and limited outcomes. Real freedom comes with responsibility and social conscience, never giving license for whatever and whenever. Even the universe has laws.

With both Saturn and Pluto shifting zodiac signs in March, this is another indication of numerous endings, too many to count, as one thing after another wraps up in natural conclusion. In many ways, 2023 is a year of clean-up while navigating the currents of personal and planetary evolution.

At the same time, 2023 is not a year for wishful thinking and rose colored glasses. There are very real challenges, at least on this dimension, as the fortunes of men rise and fall, ebb and flow. I am reminded of the analogy of riding a bike while trying to fix the tire. It seems impossible, but it is clear to see, the challenges before humanity are complex and multifaceted, immense and daunting, except perhaps in the eyes of the future, our children.

As the Chinese year of the Rabbit gets underway, the iconic image of a magician pulling a rabbit out of a hat comes to mind. Did this really happen? How is it possible? The mind is bewildered, blown away, in the presence of magic. In many ways, this is what is being asked right now. Standing on the precipice, on the brink of extraordinary opportunity, we live in an era of tremendous invention, and unparalleled advancement across a wide spectrum of possibility. Is it possible for humans to solve the riddles of our time? Yes indeed, the miraculous is happening every day.

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December 2022

Belinda C. Dunn

Gemini/Sagittarius Full Moon
December 7 @ 11:08 pm EST

Winter Solstice
December 21 @ 4:50 pm EST

Capricorn New Moon
December 23 @ 5:16 am EST

Mercury retrograde
December 29 @ 4:32 am EST

As customary, December begins with all the fanfare, and over the top extravagance, of the holiday season. Lights, camera, action! While decking the halls can be a joyful expression for many, too often the season becomes a minefield of expectation and burdens, depending on where you stand. From the standpoint of astrology, Neptune is the prominent planetary player for the first half of December, and we may do well to remember the aphorism, “All that glitters is not gold.”

First of all, strengthening its influence, Neptune is stationary direct on December 3. Neptune is transiting through Pisces, a very inspirational combination, but possibly innocent, gullible, and easily persuaded. A hallmark of these times, elements of the nonsensical weave with confusion as the mind spins in an endless circle of truth vs. falsehood. Neptune teaches that only essential Truth can be real, while falsehood is but illusory, always changing, mutating into the next drama.

While there are many ramifications, and every planetary combination manifests with both opportunity and challenge, December begins with an aura of, “What's happening ??!!” Mercury is in stressful square to Neptune on the 1^st. Venus follows closely, squaring Neptune on December 4^th. It may feel like walking through a hall of mirrors, gazing at reflections, knowing that at any moment the mirror can shatter and scatter beyond repair. Because once the illusion falls apart, there is no turning back.

All these factors feed into the approaching Gemini/Sagittarius Full Moon, exact on the evening of December 7. Shining bright, this lunation amplifies all facets of communication, personally and collectively. In fact, there are numerous breaking developments as the Moon exactly conjoins Mars in Gemini in opposition to the Sun in Sagittarius. The very word “opposition” implies conflict, difference of opinion, and efforts to persuade others to one's point of view. The air waves will be on fire with the latest story, and a sense of urgency and pressure can overtake reason.

Sagittarius, the zodiac sign of belief, can range from open minded and curious to dogmatic, opinionated, and close minded. Most likely, this Full Moon concerns the finalization of mid-term elections that can change minds, or deepen division. The political turmoil of recent years is not just a war of words, but a war of ideology. Reading like an open book, this Full Moon has the potential to illuminate contradiction, duplicity and fantasy. It is a turning point, a decisive note on which to end the year.

Another key factor for consideration involves transiting Mars retrograde (October 30 – January 12). It can be helpful to look back to important events in late October. To some degree, November was a month for pausing, perhaps stalling, allowing adjustments and alterations to future plans. December is a month for defining and refining direction, and beginning to make movement, if possible.

Returning to Neptune, the Sun makes a final square to Neptune on December 14^th. Therefore, the first half of December can be a breeding ground for a proliferation of schemes and scams with desperation as the driving force. Of course, this can wreak havoc on gift purchases, so choose wisely and carefully. Likewise, the high side of these planetary alignments can instill compassion for those in need, and can result in extraordinary acts of generosity.

By the week of December 19, grounding planetary influences come to the forefront. Marking the annual Winter Solstice, Sun enters Capricorn on the 21^st. The longest night of the year in the northern hemisphere, solstice is a time for honoring traditions, lighting candles and basking in the glow of a perfectly stoked fire. By now, Mercury and Venus are in cautious and practical Capricorn, and the solstice chart shows a predominance of the earth element. Reverent, solemn and responsible, Capricorn energy helps to stabilize the metaphorical ship on stormy seas of planetary evolution.

Within days, Moon joins Sun is a Capricorn Super New Moon, exact on December 23. In the dark of the Moon, setting the tone for year-end reflection, this is an especially important lunation for each and all. Concluding a divisive, turbulent and war torn year, a profound reckoning is taking place. From a multitude of vantage points, many are asking, “Where do we go from here?”

The New Moon chart shows a major grouping of planets in Capricorn. In addition to the luminaries, Sun and Moon, there are three planets, Venus, Mercury, Pluto. Known as a stellium, these concise and powerful alignments can dissolve illusions and fantasies, and dash expectations on the hard, cold rocks of reality. This is when the rubber meets the road in a call for responsible management of resources, starting with one's immediate sphere of influence.

Now what makes this New Moon even more powerful is Mercury preparing to go retrograde on December 29^th. As Mercury begins its routine (3 times a year) retrograde, it is within three degrees of Pluto, very close. As though egging Pluto on, Mercury will not make an exact conjunction with Pluto until February 10. So, even though there is plenty of time to get the drift, in reality, there is no time to waste.

Let's take a laser like focus into the compelling lessons of the zodiac teacher Capricorn. To recap, in its long 246 year orbit, Pluto has been transiting through Capricorn since 2008. Wrapping up fourteen years of history, next year Pluto enters Aquarius around the Spring Equinox. It is clear . . . a tremendous shift, monumental in scope, is underway. It is so easy to lose sight of this in the humdrum of daily life, but nevertheless, we are along for the ride.

An apt representation of Capricorn is the hermit on the mountain top, holding high a lantern to light the way for other climbers. In this way, Capricorn is wiser, stoic, more experienced, and above it all. Capricorn also represents the parent, and in particular the father. While this may be an idealization of parenting, and most parents understandably fall short in real life circumstances, the ideal parent is reliable, consistent, caring and conscientious. Older and wiser, a parent takes the long range view, fostering character development in offspring, and development of the internal compass commonly called conscience, morality, ethics.

Shifting gears . . . in this day and age, the community and family unit is besieged with dysfunction and numerous societal stresses. Substance abuse is rampant, schools are no longer safe havens, there is violence on the streets, political turmoil, economic disparity, mental illness is normalized, and meanwhile, greedy, tyrannical leaders play around with weapons of mass destruction. Need I go on?

I realize this is not a positive note on which to end the year. Sorry, but this major alignment in Capricorn with Mercury activating Pluto over the coming weeks, it's time to face reality. Otherwise, we may miss the substance and continue to blindly stumble along in desperation and delusion. This alignment can assist each and everyone to grow up, sidestep the habit of victimization, and mature in leaps and bounds by taking personal responsibility. Tap into inner guidance, your GPS of personalized instructions, and discover ways to fortify yourself for the inevitable vicissitudes and storms of life.

From the national picture . . . all year we have been tracking Pluto's return to its exact degree in 1776, the signing of the Declaration of Independence. The third and final conjunction is December 28^th. This makes complete sense to astrologers, and no wonder so many systems are in a state of decay and breakdown, re-imagining and reconstruction. Pluto is literally flushing out the past.

So often, as archetypal god of the underworld, Pluto gets a bad rap. Pluto's job is to bring enlightened awareness into areas of denial and repression. Exposing the underbelly, so to speak, Pluto's action is transmuting, transforming and transcending. This takes many forms such as the psychological pressure to evolve, exposure of corruption, criminality, pollution and decomposition.

As the world turns, humans tend to forget that beneath our feet, night and day, is earth, our glorious planet Earth. Under the surface, there are vast stores of minerals, gems and crystals. Under the seas, a vast wealth of sustenance and wildlife. Abundance is the nature of life, but all this is pushed aside, easily forgotten in the insatiable rush to dominate, acquire, accumulate. But, whether acknowledged or not, humans are on a treasure hunt for the real wealth, the Truth beyond all understanding.

In conclusion, I am reminded of a remarkable story of the clay Buddha. In 1955, a clay statue of Buddha was being moved to a new temple in Thailand. In transport, the clay cracked to reveal a pure gold Buddha. Apparently, during an invasion centuries earlier, monks covered the Buddha with clay to protect and preserve it from harm.

This story has so many layers of relevance and meaning, but the essence is a helpful reminder. No matter what “things” look like on the surface, appearances can be deceiving. Beneath all trials and tribulations, sorrows and joys, abides a hidden existence, waiting to be discovered, waiting to be known, and ready to be embodied.

As another year draws to a close, may each of you, your loved ones, and all beings experience the true wealth; peace, happiness, health, contentment, and a deep abiding sense that all is well, and love really does make the world go 'round.

Enjoy the season, goodwill to all, and 2023 . . . here we come !!!

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November 2022

Belinda C. Dunn

Taurus Full Moon Lunar Eclipse

November 8 @ 6:02 am

Sagittarius New Moon

November 23 @ 5:57 pm

November gets underway with a beautiful quarter Moon in the night sky. Signaling the halfway mark between a Scorpio Solar Eclipse on October 25, and a Full Moon Lunar Eclipse on November 8, the Moon's light grows and expands, waxes and wanes, in perfect rhythm, touching all life on Earth.

On any given month, the quarter Moon is a phase of adjustment. The seeds have already been planted at the New Moon, gestation is taking place, and the manifestation process is underway. In this case, still reeling from the effects of an intense Scorpio eclipse, life seems to hang in the balance. This in-between place is rarely comfortable, but Scorpio teaches a compelling lesson. Life is meant to be lived fearlessly, boldly, courageously, as a marvel of gigantic proportions, no matter what. The mythical and mystical Phoenix, reduced to ashes, rises again.

On November 8, a Full Moon Lunar Eclipse is exact near sunrise in Washington D.C. Setting the stage for national mid-term elections taking place that day, the astrology chart portrays various factions vying for power, competing for control. No doubt, this is a watershed election, and planetary trends indicate major and far reaching change.

In light of this, let's take a good look into the lunar eclipse chart. First of all, there is a planetary alignment called a T-square. In and of itself, this shows opposition and tension with no easy answers in sight. There is a tendency to polarize in one direction or another, but answers are not forthcoming due to complexity and complications.

This T-square has three potent points, activating the fixed zodiac signs of Scorpio, Taurus and Aquarius. Denoting arrogant and stubborn adherence to fixed positions, there is very little flexibility. No matter how much fear mongering, spin and contradiction, “might makes right,” no longer applies. Behind the scenes, there are larger forces at work, ready to break forth and demand accountability.

Closely aligned and currently transiting through Scorpio, the chart shows Sun, Mercury, Venus, and south lunar node in this potent sign of metamorphosis. The areas of sexuality, occultism, death and inheritance are generally ascribed to Scorpio. However, from this perspective, inheritance is so much more than money and property. It is the ancestral and genetic inheritance of blood lines beginning with the mingling of sexual juices leading to conception and gestation.

All this and more, Scorpio governs the reproductive organs and procreation. As a key player, Venus is the divine feminine, and it's no surprise that the health and reproductive rights of women are on the ballot. Add in a good dose of articulate Mercury in Scorpio, and a chorus of voices and votes will echo across the land.

In opposition to these Scorpio placements, the lunar eclipse chart shows Moon exactly conjunct Uranus on the north lunar node. All in Taurus, this amplifies themes around the environment, climate change, natural disasters, insurance, resources, money and property. Since the Moon represents the mood of the general public, this shows a readiness for progress and substantial change. It's a “whatever it takes,” mindset. There is power and strength erupting into plain view.

Known as the wild card planet, the effects of Uranus tend to be surprising, unpredictable, unruly and revolutionary. Transiting through earthy Taurus (2018 – 2025), awareness continues to build around the vital development of clean technologies, sustainability, preservation of species and habitats, and effective use of resources. There is a window of opportunity here, and the clock is ticking.

This brings us to the third point in the eclipse chart, transiting Saturn in Aquarius (2020-23). In general, the overall social environment has been filled with complex challenges, and contradictory responses. On one hand, Aquarius is about freedom, but Saturn promotes caution, restraint and responsibility. Locked in a stalemate, here we see the clashing crescendo of numerous issues, such as gun control, immigration and abortion, to name a few.

As mentioned in previous articles, Saturn and Uranus have been at odds for two years. Still in a tense square, this planetary combination energizes the naysayers, those content to make waves and complain, but do nothing. Tracking these planets back, we come to January 2021. Not only was this the inauguration of a new administration, but a significant group of people still reject the results. This is just one example, but there are many other instances of stoking the fires of dissent, fighting against the perceived “other,” digging into very stubborn positions, and holding up progress.

It is clear to see the importance of this election as a referendum on all of the above. Other areas of importance according to the symbolism of astrology include Aquarius themes such as human rights, science and technology. Taurus themes such as the economy, currency, financial institutions, and natural resources. Scorpio themes such as mortality, sexuality, psychology and mysticism.

November begins with Mars having just gone retrograde on October 30^th. In general, all the forward momentum and externalized drive of action oriented Mars hits a wall of resistance, a full stop in some cases. Retro literally means to back up, reverse direction, and step back as focus becomes more internalized, and priorities crystal clear. Roadblocks and detours actually refine and define direction over the coming months.

On the personal level, areas of life most affected will depend on the house location of transiting Mars in your natal chart. Mars is retrograde until January 12, a long haul, but knowing about it can offset frustration due to thwarted desires, unresolved conflicts, overwork, deadlines and pressure. Other responses may include apathy, overwhelm, depletion and low vitality, so by all means, take care and be aware. The more introspection and acceptance, the more these situations can be handled effectively.

On the collective level, Mars transiting through Gemini highlights the areas of travel and transportation. Looking back to when Mars entered Gemini on August 20, by mid-September one of the top news stories in the United States was the illegal busing of immigrants from one state to another. This is one example, but on the global level, masses of people are on the move, migrating to safer ground. Numerous factors are forcing people to relocate, and Mars retrograde can intensify these challenges as though the immigration crisis is on steroids.

Additionally, Gemini governs all aspects of communication; thinking, speaking, listening, analysis, education. In this media driven age of technology there is tremendous distortion of information. Take your pick, which version of reality do you wish to subscribe to? It is one thing to exchange points of view, and expand perspective, it is another to present false content for personal gain. Currently, the media is undergoing radical scrutiny, and Mars transiting through Gemini will energize these important topics.

As dark, down and dirty, a Scorpio Solar Eclipse can feel, things are not as bad as they appear. Each zodiac sign compliments and builds upon the other, and this is especially true with Sagittarius. Building toward a New Moon on November 23, Venus, Mercury and Sun enter Sagittarius (November 16, 17, 22, respectively).

This is an enormous, palpable and profound shift. After scouring the depths, and transforming the shadows, Sagittarius comes along to light our fires, literally and figuratively. Soaring on the wings of inspiration, Sagittarius instills a festive mood, uplifting the spirits, and introducing the holiday season.

Working in synergy, within minutes of the Sagittarius New Moon, Jupiter goes direct. Jupiter, the planetary ruler of Sagittarius, has been retrograde since late July. Going direct in Pisces, it is very close by degree to Neptune. Earlier this year, April 12 to be exact, these two giants combined their message to deliver both a warning and a vision. It's about the essential role of spirituality, especially in these troubling times. Many seeds were planted, many minds touched, and many hearts opened.

Astrologer Erin Sullivan writes, “Periods of retrogression are subtle and evolutionary. Jupiter's purpose in its retrograde cycle is to connect one with the deeper and more personal sense of justice, not jurisprudence, but that which is correct for one's integral balance and health. It is the annual opportunity to contemplate and reflect upon aspects of our life in which we need to explore our personal code of ethics.”

As Jupiter goes direct, the quest for meaning based on personal experience, is integrated and made ready for expression.

Without meaning, life is devoid of purpose. Another way of putting it . . . without Jupiter's beneficial rays, life ceases to be anything other than an exercise of the senses. Jupiter bestows humor, confidence and optimism even in the darkest hours.

Uplifting the mood, setting the stage, and laying the table for a Thanksgiving feast, all factors combine to enhance a sense of exquisite meaning and reverent purpose. Impossible to grasp in all its fullness, meaning cannot be mandated or decreed, coerced or manipulated, because it resides in the deepest recesses of each human heart. And for this we are grateful.

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September 2022
Belinda C. Dunn

Mercury retrograde
September 9 @ 11:38 pm

Pisces Full Moon
September 10 @ 5:59 am

Autumn Equinox
September 22 @ 9:04 pm

Libra New Moon
September 25 @ 5:55 pm

Beginning with an upswing in energy and enthusiasm, Mars harmonizes with Jupiter on September 1st. No matter what hurdles life presents, there is a sense that nothing is too big to handle successfully. Big thinking outside of the box aids in the setting of goals, and embracing potential in many endeavors.

As planetary trends come and go, take note of Jupiter's beneficial rays by breathing in and absorbing the confidence and inspiration offered during this time, because it can be tapped into for future reference. This is especially the case as Jupiter is retrograde in Aries. Themes continue around self-respect, personal empowerment and clear boundaries, particularly when faced with a tornado like spin of controversy, persuasion, intense emotion, and other forms of social control.

In addition to Mars and Jupiter, communicative Mercury joins the party in Libra. During the first two weeks of September, these three planets join in synergistic harmony. Mars in Gemini can be blunt, direct and forceful, speeding the dissemination of information, data, talking points. Mercury in Libra brings clear articulation with fair and equitable solutions for all involved.

Against the backdrop of these positive and supportive planetary trends, Mercury begins a retrograde phase on September 9. Astrology gives the gift of timing. Make note of newsworthy stories, conversations, insights and decisions that come to the forefront late August and early September. More than likely, what arises and erupts will require some time to come full circle to a point of resolution. Typically, this is when Mercury goes direct on October 2, and completes its shadow phase on October 17.

One more point to consider with this three planet alignment, Mercury and Mars are in the air signs of Libra and Gemini. Jupiter is in the fire sign of Aries. Air and fire intertwine, feeding off each other. Fire enlivens, warms and increases the flow. And, literally and figuratively, air is the information highway of the planet. Providing a cross pollination of ideals and ideas, inventions and innovations, watch for significant developments on many levels; diplomacy, treatises, commerce, science, education, alliances,  partnerships.

There is one caveat to be aware of . . . Mercury in Libra opposes Jupiter in Aries. In effect for weeks, it is helpful to be aware of the exact dates of September 2, 18, and October 12. While Jupiter expands whatever is in its sphere of influence, it can also go to extremes, exaggerate, and blow issues out of proportion.

Here are some indications of Jupiter out of balance; seeing the potential and losing sight of logistical reality, throwing caution to the wind, over projecting available resources, zealous persuasion, righteousness, entrenched opinions of right/wrong, arrogance & entitlement. Through these weeks, it may be helpful to recall the common adage, “If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is.”

Moving on to the Full Moon of September 10. Both Sun and Venus are transiting through earthy and practical Virgo. In opposition, the Moon and Neptune are in Pisces. Here is the juxtaposition of embodiment on this physical dimension. The body needs care to be healthy and functional, but spirit infuses meaning and purpose into daily tasks. This is an excellent time to tap into guidance, activate intuition, and expand awareness beyond material circumstances. True health is holistic,  encompassing and honoring the mind/body/spirit connection.

Venus is in Virgo for most of the month, beginning on Labor Day and completing on September 29. Now is the time to tap into and express love in action. Venus enhances positive Virgo characteristics such as sincerity, diligence, attention to detail, craftsmanship, studiousness, productivity and service.

Meanwhile, Venus in Virgo squares Mars in Gemini, exact on September 16. This is not the most compatible or harmonious combination. Both are mentally astute, but Mars in Gemini wants results in a hurry whereas Venus in Virgo is thorough and patient, methodically wading through details, aiming for excellence. One approach is not better than the other, and when recognized, all factors can work together for satisfying results.

As always, the Autumnal Equinox marks a time honored and sacred passage as Sun enters Libra. Exact on the evening of September 22, the astrology chart shows Mercury in exact conjunction with the Sun. This is always a significant phase in any Mercury retrograde cycle, but this conjunction is particularly potent in tandem with the Equinox.

Typically, Mercury is visible, low in the eastern sky just before sunrise, or low in the west just after sunset. But this is the point in the cycle when Mercury is not visible, due to its proximity to the Sun, shifting from evening visibility to morning (September 17 – 30).

Acting as a seeding and gestation, the mind draws inward to contemplate and evaluate the past while orienting to the future. Astrologer Erin Sullivan describes this process, “The traditional approach to the retrograde cycle, for instance not signing contracts or initiating new enterprises or making major purchases still stands. Symbolically, there are opposing forces at work that operation somewhat like driving with the emergency brake on – the exciting energy of new beginnings combined with a sense of restraint creates inner tension. Over the next ten or eleven days between the inferior conjunction and the station-direct, one should allow some latitude for new potentials, options and opportunities to develop.”

With the Sun and Mercury in Libra in opposition to Jupiter in Aries, many themes revolve around people. More than likely, important decisions arise in relationships. It may be a challenge to strike a balance between the needs and desires of the individual, and the commitments of a relationship, and social contracts in general. With any opposition, it is a matter of honoring both parties, and finding a path of compromise, but this is not always possible. In some cases, the best option may be “agreeing to disagree,” and moving on.

These themes continue strongly to the Libra New Moon on September 25. Mercury has slipped back into Virgo, conjoining Venus on the 26th. On one hand, there is a demand for new direction, and upgraded approaches to persistent issues, signified by the New Moon. On the other hand, the mind is more introspective, hidden within the the final stages of a retrograde cycle.

Although there are pressing demands, the combination with Mercury and Venus in Virgo places the attention on work, work and more work. This is a very industrious combination, and most people are willing to participate when given the chance to share their talent. Loving solutions to complex problems come easily, especially when it comes to relationships.

Additionally both Mercury and Venus are in harmony with Pluto in Capricorn. Even though motives may vary, the mind is prepared to probe the depths during this final week of September. Communications tend to be revealing, matter of fact, practical and logical. This is all in preparation for the first week of October when both Mercury and Pluto go direct. Signaling that much of the groundwork is complete, long term projects are ready to land on fertile ground.

Mid-week, exact on September 27-28, Mars positively aspects Saturn. This helpful and supportive combination is all about building consensus and connection in the networking of ideas, people and projects. With Mars in Gemini and Saturn in Aquarius, this is local as well as global. Innovation thrives in an atmosphere of camaraderie, and appreciation for diversity.

We are in the final throes of a two year long transit that started in January 2021, Saturn square Uranus, presenting an intense conflict between the known past and future potential. Contending with stops and starts, and everything in between, it has been difficult to get traction, to get ahead in the spin of systems colliding, uncertainty and cynicism. The troubles and trials, the struggles on this dimension have reached a culmination point.

There is a quickening, and in the northern hemisphere it's harvest time. Picturesque and iconic, the verdant fields of summer give way to golden grain. An essential part of harvesting grain is the winnowing process, loosely defined as sifting, fanning with air to separate the nutrient rich grain from the outer hull.

In these final final months of 2022, be prepared for much to fall away, inwardly and outwardly. However, with a good dose of discernment, September is a month to make the most of opportunities that come your way.

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August 2022
Belinda C. Dunn

Aquarius/Leo Full Moon
August 11 @ 9:36 pm

Virgo New Moon
August 27 @ 4:17 am

Summer sun is summer fun! Blazing from the center of our solar system, our Sun emanates pure life force, radiating, animating, illuminating. The Sun is in Leo now, reigning supreme as majestic lions guard their pride. Intensely loyal and loving, the lion archetype is a source of inspiration, strength and survival, but like fire, this strength can wield great power to enliven and enlighten, or burn and destroy. This is the energy of August.

To review, on July 31 there was a rare joining of Uranus and the North Lunar Node. On August 1st, Mars joins these giants, all in Taurus. Typically, Taurus prefers comfort, and works for stability, but these days are anything but stable. Uranus turns just about everything on its head, suddenly unsettling the apple cart, and in many cases, 180 degree turns of fate. Admittedly, life on Earth is not going very smoothly now, and this planetary combination can move mountains, and shake up the status qua.

Every year, in late July and early August, our Sun rises and aligns with Sirius, the brightest star. Known as the Lion's Gate, a portal opens, streaming powerful frequency upgrades upon each and all. In astrology, Sun has affinity with the third eye, the seat of awareness, the part consciousness that is eternal, going in and out of bodies and dimensions.

Against this backdrop of metaphysical potency, let's take an in-depth look at the Full Moon on August 11. The astrology chart shows complexity with many opposing factors vying for attention, vying for power. Taken all together, the luminaries (Sun & Moon), planets Mars, Saturn and Uranus, and the lunar nodes all align in unique combination, a fixed Grand Cross.

From our vantage point on Earth, a Grand Cross literally forms a cross, spanning the sky with four points, all in 90 degree angle of  each other. The cross is a potent mystical symbol of spirit in matter,  surrender and release. Astrologically, at this time, these four energetic points are in the fixed signs of Taurus, Leo, Scorpio and Aquarius.

On this Full Moon, Sun is in Leo, opposed by Moon and Saturn in Aquarius. This highlights the juxtaposition between leadership and the public. There are dynamic, honest and capable leaders, and there are  crooked, selfish and power hungry leaders. Authority can go two ways, it can be used to exemplify, empower and protect or, as is so often the case, authority can be used and abused to deceive and mislead for personal gain. Stunning in scope, all these options will be on full display, altering public opinion, and the trajectory for years to come.

Additionally, the combination of Moon with Saturn speaks to the heavy burdens imposed upon individuals and the collective body. Heavy handed restrictions and regulations are up for review. The public is no longer willing to labor under false pretenses as all is exposed. There is a rumbling, a deep unearthing of the collective conscience as more voices speak up, and rise up, to meet the challenges of a new world being birthed, the Age of Aquarius.

The next piece of the Grand Cross puzzle involves transiting South Lunar Node in Scorpio. Dark and hidden, repressed and habitual, driven by desire and power, Scorpio holds the secrets to life's mysteries. Daily news presents one story after another of depravity,  crime, thoughtless cruelty, sexual exploits, and more, in the free for all exposure of the super rich and powerful.

Additionally, Scorpio is the zodiac sign of death and rebirth. Not only is this process occurring in the public arena, but within the consciousness of humanity. As people struggle to make sense of senselessness, there is a natural introspection, personally and collectively. As difficult and trying as this appears, a profound purification is taking place on very deep levels.

The zodiac sign opposite Scorpio is Taurus. The key phrase for Scorpio is, “I desire,” and the key phrase for Taurus, is “I have.” Both signs relate to money, possessions, resources, inheritance and power. Currently the lunar nodes are activating these signs (January 2022 – July 2023). Here is an opportunity to redefine value in the marketplace as well as personal values. But, in the meantime, inflation continues demanding adjustments in buying/selling and lifestyle.

The North Lunar Node in Taurus shows the direction of positive potential, and open doors of opportunity. Here there are two major planetary activators, Uranus and Mars. Throughout July and August, anything goes. Closing doors and opening doors, catapulting consciousness to a new level, the themes are resilience, adaptation, acceptance, and gratitude for the simple pleasures of life.

The planetary ruler of Taurus is Venus, the planet of love and beauty. In contrast, the planetary ruler of Scorpio is Pluto, the planet of pollution, toxicity, fanaticism, criminality, breakdowns/breakthroughs, death and transformation. As a species, we are living through very Pluto times, but the direction is clear, especially as Venus enters Leo on August 11, and that evening a Full Moon illuminates the darkness.

Over the past several years, starting in March 2020, Saturn and Uranus have been in tense and stressful aspect. However, from now to the end of 2022, this aspect is peaking, reaching a culmination point this autumn. To review, Saturn is the planet of responsibility, and Uranus is the planet of freedom. The tug of war between these archetypal energies is apparent in many arenas across society in a continual play of opposites.

Interestingly, both these planets have affinity with the root chakra at the base of the spinal column. Realizing how to maintain balance with  each polarity is key to grounded functioning in this world of form. One is not possible without the other. For example, true freedom is based on taking responsibility for ethical conduct generated from within, rather than falling back on externally imposed restrictions/laws/regulations.

We don't have to look far to see the effects of Saturn/Uranus. Widespread alienation, disregard for authority, rage against the system, rebellion, unfair laws and business practices, attempts to control and restrict personal freedoms . . . the list goes on. Across the globe, society is attempting to function in the midst of financial uncertainty, climate change, hopelessness and homelessness, dread and fear of the future.

For two years, Saturn has had the upper hand. In other words, consequences of short sighted vision, irresponsible actions, and poor decisions have been holding humanity hostage. All the while making it virtually impossible to get enough traction to pull out a dysfunctional past.

However, now through November, Uranus rises to the occasion as the stronger planetary influence. In addition to its conjunction with the North Lunar Node, Uranus holds tight at 18 degrees Taurus for weeks on end. Beginning a retrograde phase on August 24, the energy of Uranus can be likened to a long awaited thunderstorm. Lightening on the horizon, pressure building, the action of Uranus is electrifying, sudden and inexplicable.

On the 3-D level, Uranus tends to bring sudden shifts in perception as though consciousness is thrust into new territory. Like a stranger in a strange land, many people may experience alienation, abrupt turnarounds, and change in circumstances. Although not necessarily easy, this can bring improvements in the long run. Typically, a sense of clarity and knowing, release and relief, accompanies Uranus.

Another very significant planetary transit is Mars entering Gemini on August 20, and due to a lengthy retrograde phase from late October to early January 2023, this monthly article will return to the importance of this trend over coming months. In general, Mars in Gemini is friendly, curious and informed, but restless, vacillating and on-the-go. For now, suffice it to note the palpable energy shift late August.

Wrapping up the month is a Virgo New Moon on August 27. In the early degrees of Virgo, attention returns to school, work, and routine in general. As in any New Moon, orbiting Moon joins Sun in setting the stage, anchoring and energizing the next level of Earth school curriculum. In stressful aspect to Mars in the early degrees of Gemini, there can be pressure to multitask, make quick decisions, gather information and plan for months to come. This is an excellent time to set intentions for the next lunar cycle with particular emphasis on health, productivity, harvest and other practical matters.

Finally, how to prepare for August when planetary trends appear to be anything but calming, grounding, soothing and restorative? How to surf the turbulent waves, a breaking tsunami of change?

First, there is a great cleansing taking place, and it is time. Momentum has been building for decades. Secondly, in a hurry to prosper and reign supreme, humans have lost touch with universal laws, repeatedly violating and ignoring nature's intelligence. It's really very simple. At the heart of the matter is a loss of aliveness, a loss of conscience, a denial and turning away from reality. It is a very long ancient story with many twists and turns along the corridor of time. But in this moment, solutions are more present than many realize, the garden is calling.

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July 2022
Belinda C. Dunn

Capricorn SuperMoon Full Moon
July 13 @ 2:38 pm

Leo New Moon
July 28 @ 1:55 pm

Summer is here and the sizzle is on! In celebration of Independence Day,  stars and stripes of red, white and blue wave in the breeze as fireworks light up an indigo evening sky. Thankfully, from the astrologically perspective, the elements of water and earth predominate, offering a calming and grounding influence, a much needed reprieve from the intensity of current events.

We will begin with an overview of general trends applicable for everyone, and conclude with an interpretation of current trends based on the United States astrology chart, in what has become my annual “Astrological State of the Union.” Ruled by the planet Uranus, astrology is an ancient system with time tested relevance to the past, present and future. In this era of heightened polarization and political bias, astrology can offer a detached view of the nation's faults and failings as well as its strengths and overall destiny.

Right from the get-go, the month begins with Mars in stressful square to Pluto on July 1st. Mars has been in Aries since May 24, an impulsive, energized and volatile combination that has brought the darkness of destruction into the light of day. However, in contrast, Mars in Aries has brought many truly heroic deeds to the forefront.

Mars is the fighter, for good or ill, fortifying and encouraging positive and effective response to crisis. In combination with power hungry Pluto, the underworld is on full display, and repercussions of disclosure come to a critical head. The process of disclosure and evaluation is on-going on multiple levels of personal and collective experience. People can no longer afford to keep heads buried in the sand when basic human rights are repeatedly disregarded.

On July 5th, Mars leaves Aries, and enters grounding, stabilizing and practical Taurus. Additionally, Mercury enters Cancer, and together these influences reflect a return to sensibilities with a focus on home, family and finances. With a harmonious flow between mind and action, it is possible to make wise decisions, follow through, and actually get the job done.

By mid-month, exact on July 13th, there is a Full Moon. With the Sun in Cancer and Moon in Capricorn, this is a SuperMoon amplifying and intensifying current themes. In fact, Moon conjoins Pluto in Capricorn, igniting issues that carry through another week, culminating on the evening of July 19 when Sun opposes Pluto. Pluto's action is repetitive, digging deeper, not leaving a stone untouched. Issues tend to resurface with the same old arguments, going around and around, triggering similar emotional responses.

Additionally, communicative Mercury is a key player transiting through Cancer, and more than likely, there will be major revelations, announcements and decisions altering the trajectory for weeks and months to come. Surface appearances fall away in the relentless, challenging and psychologically probing Pluto energy. Whether it is immediately recognized or not, Pluto brings sweeping and permanent change. Once Pandora's proverbial box is open, there is no turning back.

Energies begin to shift dramatically on July 19 as Mercury enters proud and majestic Leo. The Sun closely follows, entering Leo on Friday, the 22nd. Full of vitality and creativity, Leo is the zodiac sign of fun and play, recreation and entertainment. Crowning the last week of July is a New Moon in Leo on the 28th.

In the dark of the Moon, 24 hours before the exact New Moon, there is an opportunity to release outdated modes of pleasure seeking. There are many social pressures around entertainment, and what is considered fun is unique to each person. In this heavy and consequential social atmosphere, it is so easy to get caught up and lost in the seriousness of so-called reality. Here is an opportunity to re-frame and ignite one's unique expression of happiness.

This New Moon is in harmonious alignment with Jupiter, the planet of inspiration, optimism, altruism and benevolence. Giving a boost of confidence in matters of truth and justice, Jupiter promotes fair, ethical and equitable solutions. Known as the great benefactor, Jupiter gives all this, and more, while adding a good dose of levity and humor, even in the darkest hours.

July 28th is also important as Jupiter begins a retrograde phase for the next four months. Since Jupiter's action is to expand and grow, the station retrograde can slowdown or halt progress. In terms of run-away inflation, this can be a good thing. In terms of personal progress, this can signify matters outside of one's control, and even a loss of perspective and confidence.

Astrologer Erin Sullivan writes, “The station suddenly arrests or withdraws the expansive mood and inverts the energy. The change in tone or pattern of growth is usually directly related to hierarchy of some kind, in which personal decisions become impotent or insignificant. It becomes apparent that more time is likely to be necessary to evolve the idea, project, relationship or plan.”

Jupiter's transit feeds directly into an exceptional and unique astrological alignment exact on the afternoon of July 31st. Even though computers can pinpoint the timing, in reality this trend is in effect all year. Basically, transiting North Lunar Node is conjunct transiting Uranus in Taurus. The next day, August 1st, Mars in Taurus activates this conjunction. Giving another tremendous boost, this triple conjunction is in harmony with Venus. What does this mean?

First of all, like so many situations in our current reality, there will be great contrast. These factors point to sudden endings as well as sudden and inexplicable breakthroughs. Taken one by one, the North Lunar Node functions like the north star, the direction of evolutionary growth and opportunity. Mars is passionate, activated and energized. Uranus is the planetary wild card, virtually impossible to predict.

All these factors blend together suggesting pressure and instability fueled by a desire for freedom, at all cost. Long standing conditions can no longer stand. The inherent drive for security, safety and prosperity can force people, individually and collectively, to make instantaneous adjustments. Some decisions will be impulsive and radical, while others choose wisely. The wheel of fortune is spinning out of control, and where things land, no one knows.

From another angle, Taurus is the zodiac sign of possessions, currency, commerce, banking, financial institutions and the environment. One of the astrological highlights of 2022, an enormous paradigm shift is taking place in the value of financial markets, supply of goods and services, and economic transactions in general. The pandemic, and other consequences of natural and man-made disasters is taking a heavy toll. This is a time to pay attention, mind your own business, and take care of your own.

With all this as a backdrop, in honor of Independence Day, let's turn to my annual, “Astrological State of the Union.” While an entire book can be written on the United States astrology chart, there are four primary trends in consideration for now.

First of all, the Pluto return. It takes Pluto 246 years to cycle through the entire zodiac. On July 4, 1776, Pluto was in the late degrees of Capricorn. This year Pluto is returning to this exact degree on February 20, July 11, December 28. This is monumental, and obviously the country is going through a major overhaul of ideology, values, laws and systems of governance. Society today is vastly, almost unfathomably different, from the social systems of 1776. It's time for an upgrade and rewrite, although messy and disturbing in the meantime.

Astrologer Lorna Beven writes, “When Pluto entered the sign of Capricorn in November 2008, The Great Eliminator began to expose all that was false, covert and hidden, within ourselves, within organizations, institutions, mega-corporations, governments. Fourteen years on and we find ourselves in the death throes of authoritarian darkness, which now seeks to eradicate the collective soul. But Pluto is transpersonal – far bigger than any human power games – and utterly relentless – the birth of the new will not be thwarted. These last two years of Pluto in Capricorn are bringing out the worst of the worst of the patriarchal freaking out, violence, coup attempts, dictator meltdowns, and rage against all of it.”

The second trend of note involves Neptune, the planet of deception, transiting over sensitive points in the country's chart (Mars in Gemini square Neptune in Virgo). Wreaking havoc in terms of identity, ideology, media and misinformation, widespread disillusionment has fed into a confusing mix of dysfunction and desperation. Neptune is slow-moving with a 165 year orbit, so the effects have been building for years, but 2021-2022 is the culmination of a profound and insistent soul searching for every American, and the country as a whole.

The third trend involves Mars in Libra, and its progressed retrograde phase that started in 2006. Mars will be retrograde for approximately 65-70 years, a very long trend by any standards. Typically, Mars is proactive, taking action, impulsively fighting or initiating conflict. Clearly, the country has participated in its share of war over the centuries.

Thus far, this retrograde phase indicates diminished motivation, distaste, reservation and caution in foreign affairs, especially on the part of the general public. Mars retrograde is just that, a backing away, a retreat, a reluctance to getting involved in draining, long term, and no win conflicts. Mars in Libra promotes peace-keeping, mediation, cooperation, diplomacy and consensus building in partnership with other nations.

On the home front, retrograde Mars in Libra intensifies the frustration, and vacillation between resolving differences with weaponry and violence, and/or resolving differences with diplomacy. As the Libra scales of balance swing from one wild extreme to another, it adds to the polarization of viewpoints, underscoring the fundamentals of law and order, and the need for comprehensive reform, no matter which side of the fence one sits on.

The fourth astrological factor involves the nation's Moon in Aquarius, and Saturn's current transit though Aquarius, culminating in an exact conjunction early next year (February 11, 2023). In this case, Saturn is restricting and limiting the Moon, representing women and the general public. From
a faltering economy to health care access to public safety,  this is a heavy load for the public to bear. While there are attempts to curtail civil liberties, ultimately the spirit of freedom, represented by the Moon in Aquarius, will not be denied.

In preparing this article, I found it almost impossible to adequately simplify, and consolidate the many complex and multifaceted issues we face as a nation and a global community. Perhaps best to use these brief interpretations as a jumping off point for your intuitive insight, your unique and personal connection with guidance, and all that is. From the infinitesimal to the most galactic, there are larger forces at play in absolutely everything. Enjoy the ride!

What's UP – June 2022
Belinda C. Dunn

Mercury Direct
June 3 @ 4:00 am

Sagittarius Full Moon SuperMoon
June 14 @ 7:52 am

Summer Solstice
June 21 @ 5:14 am

Cancer New Moon
June 28 @ 10:52 pm

Airy, light, fluid and free, June begins with Sun in Gemini, associated with the element air. Daylight hours have been steadily increasing since Winter Solstice, and the peak of illumination is reached on June 21, the beautiful fulfillment of Summer Solstice. Frigid and fierce winter winds are long past. The soft, gentle, warming caress of a summer breeze touches the cheek and tousles the hair.

The seasonal shifts are palpable and real, especially heightened with Jupiter's transit into Aries (May 10). This is very significant given that Jupiter has spent all year in Pisces. You may look back over the past five months and notice the introspective, contemplative, floating and drifting sense of going nowhere fast.

One by one, three planets, Venus, Mars and Jupiter have taken their turn in conjoining Neptune. Otherworldly, dissolving the boundaries of consciousness, clearing the karmic slate, humbled and receptive, many people are ready to stand back up, and move forward based on alignment with higher and more rarefied frequencies.

Transiting over the world axis of zero degrees, Jupiter's entrance into Aries represents a rebirth. As much as Pisces is receptive and passive, Aries is energetic and active. Take to heart the insights and revelations of recent months, no matter how abstract or hard to put into words. The cosmic tide has turned, and Jupiter in Aries is leading the way for each and everyone.

In general, Jupiter is the planet of expansion, growing whatever it touches. This can mean many things, but at its core, Jupiter's beneficial rays instill a willingness to learn and explore. Now in Aries, the uptick of energy can be summed up in the word VERVE, best defined as vigor, enthusiasm, vivacious, get-up-and-go. Jupiter has a twelve year cycle, and it may be helpful to recall the last time Jupiter transited through Aries; June – September 2010, and again in 2011, January – June.

Adding to this major shift is passionate and mobilizing Mars transiting through Aries (May 24 – July 4). In Aries the entire month, Mars just conjoined Jupiter on May 29, but the repercussions continue to unfold. For most people, this will be an enthusiastic rebirth of focus and drive, a felt sense that now is the time to get ahead, and gain traction to manifest goals. But for others, this planetary combination ups the ante, pouring more fuel on the fire. There may be no escaping the intensity and necessity to get moving in new directions.

However, there is a delay factor built into the cosmic plan, such as Mercury retrograde. As humans tend to be impulsive and hard-headed, Mercury makes sure that all details are in place for progress, and decisions are in alignment with destiny. June begins with Mercury within days of completing a retrograde phase that started May 10th.

When Mercury goes direct in the early morning hours of June 3, it is in Taurus, squaring off with Saturn. Adding to the drama, shortly thereafter, Saturn goes retrograde on June 4. This combination, in and of itself, signifies extreme differences of opinion, perception and logic. Communication may be loaded with prejudice, and decisions involving others may reach an impasse.

Saturn typically brings a realistic, bottom line approach, and does not shy away from discussing the hard truth. Many people will not approve of or like what they are hearing/seeing. All sorts of issues will be breaking loose in a definitive, without a doubt, upset. The impulse is to talk it out, but this can lead to circuitous debate that gets nowhere. Better to let the dust settle, because forcing others to see one's point of view only increases resistance.

In terms of decisions, on May 9, Mercury went retrograde in Gemini, symbolized by the twins looking toward each other in agreement, or looking away in opposite directions. Therefore this retrograde phase has been characterized with indecisiveness, duality or duplicity. As Mercury goes direct it returns to Gemini on June 13, allowing for elaborations and more information to come forward. Additionally, Sun is transiting through Gemini, so exchange of information is paramount in effectively moving through obstacles.

This brings us to a Full Moon SuperMoon on June 14. This is a particularly energized culmination of recent months, if not years. With Sun in Gemini, and Moon opposing in Sagittarius, this lunation activates very sensitive degrees in the USA astrology chart, Mars in Gemini in stressful square to Neptune.

To back up for a moment, the transiting lunar nodes were in Gemini/Sagittarius from May 2020 through January 2022. Gemini is the messenger and storyteller, Sagittarius is the more abstract content of belief and ideology. At their best, these zodiac signs are impartial in delivering objective information. In combination with Neptune, to a large degree, this trend helps to account for extreme viewpoints, confusion of facts with fiction, blind patriotism, and the plethora of misinformation.

Considering the 1/6 Commission is scheduled to begin public hearings on June 9, all these factors come together to bring everything out in the open. The timing is impeccable and laser-like as repercussions ripple across the country and reverberate around the world.

The next day, June 15, Mars conjoins Chiron in Aries, energizing the archetypal wounded healer. This combination does not allow us to rest on our laurels, but underscores an on-going healing process of self reclamation. Especially beneficial is the clarity and strength to stop and drop depleting habits patterns. To optimize Chiron, it is a matter of coming out of denial by admitting painful aspects of one's past that may be lingering in the energy field. The next step is cultivating and accepting healing, however it shows up in the present.

Moving on . . . the tide turns on June 21st, the longest and most light filled day of the year, Summer Solstice. It just so happens the Sun is rising over the east coast, shining the solar spotlight on Washington D.C., and highlighting domestic issues on a national level. Additionally, Saturn is overhead, very close to the USA Moon in Aquarius. Numerous factors point to these summer months as pivotal for the nation as a whole.

The solstice chart shows Moon in Aries in its last quarter phase. Additionally, Moon will transit over Jupiter, Chiron and Mars, all in Aries. Accentuating the potency of this seasonal turning point, themes revolve around one's personal domestic setting as well as the independence and self-sufficiency of Aries.

The month wraps up with a New Moon in Cancer on the evening of June 28, symbolized by a crab burrowing in the sandy tides, flowing with the rhythm of land and sea.  Instinctual and protective, this is an excellent time for retreat. Typically, focus goes to home improvements, landscaping, gardening, food preparation, family relationships, and perhaps stay at home vacations. In general, any new moon is optimal for setting goals, preparing and planting seeds of intention for the next cycle.

Earlier in the day, Neptune goes retrograde instilling a creative, imaginative, inspirational and transcendent atmosphere. At 25 degrees, Neptune is orbiting through the later degrees of Pisces now, and will remain retrograde until early December. This planet of illusion, confusion and disillusionment has been playing havoc with everyday sensibility.

Neptune's more disturbing tendencies have been allowed to run rampant, and can be seen in the proliferation of scams, outright lies, illicit drugs, mental illness and mass psychosis. The station point (June 23 – July 4), suggests a reversal in direction with the possibility to see through these distortions. Invoking and expanding awareness is the first step in recovery across a wide spectrum of human ailments, personally and collectively.

Finally, within all the pushes and pulls of planetary influences, what is the optimal direction? In part, the answer to this question takes us back to the lunar nodes, in particular the North Lunar Node in Taurus (January 2022 – July 2023). In essence, Taurus is the most fixed and stable zodiac energy. After the chaos of recent years, a majority of people, to one degree or another, find themselves yearning and working toward increased security and stability. Think of the Taurus bull grazing comfortably in a luscious, green pasture.

On the other hand, when people, individually and in groups, are disenchanted and fueled by rage, this dynamic easily becomes a tinder box ready to ignite, a lethal combination. Perhaps society has reached a dividing line between those fighting for change, willing and capable of using violence, and those fighting for change through constructive channels. One response is loaded with angst and drama, the other response, for the most part, is drama free.

North Lunar Node in Taurus suggests: Enjoy the simple treasures of day to day existence. Life doesn't have to be so complicated. It's okay to slow down. Discover and cultivate beauty. Spend time in nature. Share a heartfelt hug, a sincere smile. Now is the time to be an instrument of peace. Generosity and gratitude make all the difference in the world.

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June 2021
Belinda C. Dunn

Gemini Solar Eclipse
June 10 @ 6:53 am

Summer Solstice
June 20 @ 11:32 pm

Mercury direct
June 22 @ 6:00 pm

Capricorn SuperMoon Full Moon
June 24 @ 2:40 pm

The winds of change are blowing, vacillating, up and down, and all around. At times with gale force, at times with a gentle caress, June is a month of shifting dynamics on many levels. One moment, a breezy and carefree atmosphere lifts the spirit, the next moment, astounding developments can take one's breath away.

Before satellites could predict weather patterns, a farmer could be seen standing in his field, all senses alert, reading the wind to accurately determine the air's direction, moisture content and velocity. This is the analogy for June, each of us, in our own way, will be testing the trending winds for direction in the midst of both little and big decisions.

The final week of May wrapped up with Mercury going retrograde, and a powerful lunar eclipse. Talk about stirring things up! Due to this retrograde phase, Mercury is in Gemini for nine weeks (May 3 – July 11). As Yoda in Star Wars said, “I sense a disturbance in the force.” The overall atmosphere feels unsettled, and many questions linger, leftover and unresolved. However, a Gemini Solar Eclipse on June 10 promises a reset like stepping across the threshold of a new world dawning.

The nature of Gemini is to vacillate in the face of options. Here, there, and everywhere, Gemini energy is a challenge to nail down. Therefore, frustrating delays can occur, but just perhaps . . . this is a gift! Only through impartial and astute awareness, and a curious mindset, can one venture forth with calm resolve. Therefore, June is a month of discovery, and keeping options open. Whether mulling over possibilities in great detail, or instantaneously knowing the answer, acceptance of this process can eliminate frustration, calm nerves, and ease the way.

Astrologer Lorna Bevan sums up these eclipses. “This is a time to explore the possibilities. Expect situations to arise that force you to disentangle from thinking that is no longer relevant. Circumstances will change, prompting you to find new ways to work collaboratively, in order to come up with original inventive solutions. You'll want to follow your curiosity, break up routines and find new stories to tell and new people to mix with.”

What does this look like in practical terms? Essentially, reaching out is the direction. First of all, don't assume that you or anyone else has all the answers. It may be a matter of picking up the phone the next time you think of someone. Or take the day to check out a new location. It may be taking the steps to initiate a hard conversation that turns out to be beneficial for all concerned. Research and review are the keywords in optimizing Mercury retrograde.

The astrology chart for the solar eclipse shows Sun, Moon and Mercury aligned within a degree, and positioned close to the north lunar node in Gemini. This sensitive and mystical nodal point has been in Gemini since May 2020. For the past year, people have been pushed and prodded, urged to move into the high side of Gemini which includes the admirable traits of adaptability, healthy curiosity, honesty, impartiality and tolerance.

Let's explore some of the themes. Long distance travel has been curtailed, but exploration of one's immediate locality has been enhanced. For many people, working at home has replaced a long, traffic jammed commute. Teachers and students, parents and families have had to rapidly adapt to drastic changes in education. There is renewed respect for essential workers, they are no longer taken for granted. There is a new appreciation for neighbors and neighborhood grocery stores. Additionally, not being able to visit, converse and hug loved ones has underscored the importance of these close relationships.

This Gemini Solar Eclipse in combination with Mercury will bring circumstances of the past year into clearer focus. With the lifting of mask mandates in many social settings, people can return to more normal activities, but many residual considerations remain. More than likely, events during May/June/July are the exclamation point to this most extraordinary year.

From an even more serious perspective, the past year has brought many facets of social justice, or lack thereof, to the forefront. Snap decisions, violent acts, loud voices of dissent, prejudice in all its ugliness . . . all this has come to a critical head. Gemini thrives on diversity along with the mindset of how are we similar, rather than how are we different.

Adding to the potential for breaking news, the Gemini Solar Eclipse is in conjunction with Mars in the United States astrology chart. Will this pour more fuel on the fire of social unrest? Or bring more cognizance to the futility of violence in addressing social problems? Most likely, extreme manifestations will bring about more concerted action to maintain social justice, balance and harmony.

In combination with Neptune in Pisces, the compassionate heart is awakening from slumber. Due to Mercury's retrograde phase, it aspects Neptune three times (May 22, June 5, July 6). Squaring off, this is a tense and stressful planetary alignment with ramifications for both good and ill.

In many cases, it will be necessary to ferret out the truth. Considering the social environment of conspiracy theories, outright lies and distortion of facts, this may very well be the culmination of months, if not years, of chaos. Certain truths will not be held back. Slowly, but surely, people are coming to their senses.

On the other hand, Mercury/Neptune can bring a barrage of news, leaving individuals, and society at large, to make sense of information that initially may present as disorienting, overwhelming and disconcerting. The intersection of mind with belief can be a slippery slope of enormous proportions. The fact is, the human mind can so easily be programmed, manipulated, deceived and misled.

Whether it is recognized or not, core beliefs are shifting dramatically. Known as the Zeitgeist, this is defined as, “the spirit or mood of a particular period of history as shown by the ideas and beliefs of the time.” An entire narrative is shifting, and it's messy business in the meantime. Allowing the dust to settle may take months, but a breakthrough is underway.

Possibly the most extraordinary example is an upcoming report to Congress on Unidentified Aerial Phenomena, commonly known as UFO's. In perfect timing, the television program, “60 Minutes” aired a segment on May 15 showing footage of aerial phenomena that is mind blowing, if not convincing. Even though it raises more questions than answers, the likelihood of extraterrestrial life is being investigated and exposed to the general public.

The field of inter-species communication is growing by leaps and bounds as demonstrated by Neptune's long term transit through Pisces. The aspect between Mercury and Neptune can build bridges of understanding between the conscious mind and super-conscious awareness, giving voice to an expanded view of existence. Not only this, Neptune's influence is particularly strong the end of June as it begins a retrograde phase on the 25th. With both planets retrograde for a spell, it suggests major developments on many fronts that will take time to digest.

Of course, everything occurring on the macro level is also on the micro level. On the personal level, pressing situations can appear complex and bewildering, requiring patience, although there may be a push for snap decisions. More than likely, this phase will begin to wrap up as Mercury goes direct on June 22, and come to completion the week of July 4th, as Mercury makes its third and final square to Neptune.

Another significant planetary alignment is exact on June 14. For the second time, Saturn aspects Uranus in a tense and transforming square. On May 23, Saturn started its annual retrograde phase, backtracking through Aquarius. The first interaction between these contrasting planets was February 17, the third and final aspect is exact on December 24. Thus, the entire year is encapsulated in this rare interface between Saturn, the planet of tradition, and Uranus, the planet of progress. Signifying a major overhaul in many areas of personal and collective experience, it may be necessary to strike a balance between control and freedom, responsibility and independence.

June 20 is especially relevant as the Sun enters Cancer, marking the Summer Solstice. Meanwhile, Jupiter goes retrograde, and it is Father's Day. This is an excellent day to remember and honor the wisdom of ancestry along with the continuity of life. There is always cause for celebration from the individual to the galactic. Jupiter uplifts and expands purpose beyond the everyday struggles of fathers and families.

June wraps up with a Full Moon on the 24th. With the Sun in Cancer, and Moon in Capricorn, both luminaries harmonize with Jupiter in the early degrees of Pisces. Bestowing fertility, water and earth elements are prominent as summer gets underway. This is a calming, settling influence, and it is natural to seek the refreshing waters of lake and stream, ocean and inlet. It's time for recreation, tapping into a playful spirit, re-creating one's purpose in this magnificent dance of life.

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May 2021
Belinda C. Dunn

Taurus New Moon
May 11 @ 3:00 pm

Sagittarius Lunar Eclipse
May 26 @ 7:14 am

Mercury Retrograde
May 29 @ 6:34 pm

Springtime in the Blue Ridge Mountains is like a taste of heaven on earth. Often described as “Land of the Sky,”  this is my 32nd spring in this location, and once again, I wonder how to capture the essence in words. Imagine . . . every shade of green from pale chartreuse to rich emerald isle green, blooming azaleas ranging in color from pure white to hot pink to vibrant red, tiny violets carpet the lawn. And the fragrance! Freshly cut grass, flowers galore, all wafting in the sweetest, most gentle breeze. It's the season to get out and about, breathing in, breathing out, taking a deep breath of life itself.

Astrologically speaking, May is jam packed with significant trends, and major turning points. Jupiter enters Pisces on May 13. Saturn begins a four month retrograde phase on May 23. An upcoming lunar eclipse on May 26 is also a SuperMoon. Mercury goes retrograde on May 29. All these factors work together, dovetail together, to generate a momentum of possibility, tempered with rationality and down to earth goodness.

A Taurus New Moon on May 11 sets the stage. Practical and earthy, this is an excellent time to plant seeds of intention. Taurus is the zodiac sign of value in the most tangible form of things, money and possessions, to the more abstract underpinnings of self-worth such as merit, reward and achievement. For many people, these can be a highly charged concerns, especially when lacking or absent, or complicated and burdensome.

As the Moon joins our Sun to promote this new cycle, it can be very helpful to set aside concepts, and review what is truly of value to you now, aside from programming, apart from things, free from the past. Additionally, Uranus is transiting through Taurus, and this lunation can act as a powerful reset going forward, keeping in mind/heart that no price can be placed on serenity and happiness, considering the wisdom of, “the best things in life are free.”

We are coming off seven weeks of Mars in Gemini, and May begins with Mars in the early degrees of Cancer. Restless and roaming, Mars in Gemini has re-invigorated the traveling spirit. Throughout May, and into the first 2 weeks of June, a homing instinct takes over. Projects around the home and garden take precedent along with family events, and other social activities closer to home.

However, according to astrology, the traveling season is just beginning. Mercury enters Gemini on May 3, and due to a retrograde phase, will spend nine weeks in the zodiac sign of travel, education, storytelling, networking, news media, generally all exchanges of information and communication.

Gemini is sociable, curious, changeable, flexible, going with the flow.
Thus, it is helpful to prepare for a faster, upbeat tempo during May and June. The natural versatility of Gemini can be helpful, especially considering the upcoming retrograde phase, May 29 – June 22. Retrograde means just that, to reverse, back up and review plans. Change of plans may occur based on new information and insight. Many problems can be averted by double checking facts and figures, dates and schedules.

Amplifying these trends is the Sun's transit through Gemini starting on May 21, feeding into a lunar eclipse on May 26. Therefore, the final week of May can bring about abrupt changes along with major revelations and disclosures of sensitive and timely information.

On the personal level, it is helpful to be more aware of clear communication, aiming toward inclusive decisions. At the same time, one's personal point of view is expanding, undergoing change based on open minded receptivity. The inclination to listen and learn can enhance relationships, and build bridges of understanding. At the same time, eclipses tend to reveal the true essence of a person or situation, and good boundaries may be necessary. Self awareness is key.

On the public stage, these are especially powerful months. Of course, a lunar eclipse amps up the energy, intensifying reaction and response. This isn't just any eclipse. Known as a SuperMoon, the Moon appears larger and more illuminated at perigee, its closest approach to the Earth. This lunar eclipse will be followed by a solar eclipse on June 10, therefore, we are in eclipse season until late June.

A variety of revelations will startle the public at large, altering the trajectory for months to come. Eclipses are known for shining the light of truth, and clearing away illusion. Random events can manifest suddenly, outside of one's immediate control. Long standing challenges may transform instantly, and in surprising ways.

The theme of disclosure, the unknown becoming known, is especially pertinent as Mercury aspects Neptune repeatedly (May 22, June 5, July 6). Computers can give exact dates, but the effects will be prevalent throughout these months. This planetary alignment is a tense square, whereby facts collide with fantasy, and everything in between. A dreamy, fantastical atmosphere ensures the need to remain firmly grounded in reality.

With Mercury in talkative Gemini, and Neptune in psychic Pisces, there may be overlaps between the analytic mind, and intuitive mind. Misunderstandings breed confusion, while secrets come to light. Forces that prefer to dwell beneath the radar may be exposed for what they are. Airwaves are riddled, rife with controversy and conspiracy as voices rise to divert attention, attempting to gain control of the narrative.

Many people may experience heightened sensitivity, and feel susceptible to outside influences. Depending on lifestyle, this can be stressful, or spiritually uplifting and transforming. Extra care of the nervous system can mitigate tension, calm the mind, and sooth  emotions. Those struggling with various forms of mental illness may be especially challenged during this Mercury retrograde and eclipse season.

Another very significant factor during these final weeks of spring, and early summer is Mercury's crossing over the solar eclipse degree three times due to its retrograde phase. There will be more on this in the June article, but for now, the effects of an upcoming Gemini Solar Eclipse on June 10 are already manifesting. The exact dates of Mercury conjoining this potent eclipse point are: May 24-26, June 11-13, and July 1-3.

These planetary combinations can serve to break open and illuminate tightly held assumptions. One of the highest potentials is for prejudice and division to fall away in light of a greater truth, a more expansive vision. Mind boggling and mind blowing, things that previously made sense, are no longer relevant. Ultimately, this frees consciousness to be more present and aligned with evolutionary trends.

Along the lines of evolution, let's take a look at the social planets, Jupiter and Saturn. The year began with both planets entering Aquarius, the zodiac sign of technology, community, and global connection. Jupiter quickly made its transit through Aquarius, and on May 13 enters Pisces for several months before it retrogrades back into Aquarius for the remainder of 2021. This is another indication of profound spiritual awakening for the masses.

Saturn continues its transit through Aquarius until spring 2023, another two years. However, Saturn begins a retrograde phase on May 23, lasting until mid-October. Over these coming months, Saturn will backtrack over specific zodiac degrees in Aquarius. Typically, Saturn retrograde slows down progress to ensure re-assessment of goals.

Astrologer Erin Sullivan writes on Saturn retrograde, “One is forced to come to terms with one's inability to control one's environment, and becomes acutely aware of a diminution of ego power. With rearrangement of time and priorities, and after quiet withdrawal, one often finds considerable peace of mind – either because one feels the difficult time is over, or because one has reached the realization that such a profound need for change must be contemplated slowly and with great reserve.”

Since the zodiac sign of Aquarius is global in scope, there appears to be increasingly awareness of collective challenges that affect the individual, but are experienced worldwide. The pandemic continues to drive home this message of inherent connectivity. Technological development, environmental degradation and climate change are another areas of far reaching consequence on the global level. This unique moment can bring humanity together to build a new tomorrow.

As a reminder, three powerful planets came together in 2020 - Jupiter, Saturn, Pluto. This rare planetary alignment produced a year of hardship and loss taking many forms. Together these planets revealed cracks in the core foundations of society; time honored traditions, beliefs, government, education, health care, economy, environment and more. Almost nothing was left untouched.

In the darkest of circumstances, how does one access hope? In the depths of depression and despair, how does one access optimism? This is the juxtaposition of Saturn and Jupiter. The planet of karma and consequence, meets Jupiter, the planet of enthusiasm and faith.

Like an addict, humanity as a whole has dug a very deep hole for itself. Saturn is here to offer the gifts of responsibility, the contemplation of purposeful participation. Jupiter is here to offer the gifts of renewal, encouragement and faith. As individuals, families, communities, and a global organism, from the micro to the macro, we're in this together.

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April 2021
Belinda C. Dunn

Aries New Moon
April 11 @ 10:31 pm

Scorpio/Taurus Full Moon
April 26 @ 11:32 pm

A new month dawns bright and clear with all planets direct, all systems GO! As our Sun transits through Aries, the first sign of the zodiac wheel, there is a very real sense of rebirth along with an unrelenting push to get up and running again, making up for lost time, as though life can't move fast enough.

Throwing off winter's heaviness is like throwing off the shackles, freeing up life force to flow, liberating the breath to inhale deeply of earth's sweet fragrance. In a multitude of ways, on so many levels, all appears new, rejuvenated, reborn.

On April 11, the Aries New Moon seals the deal. There is no looking back now. In comparison to the past year, this is a month of leaps and bounds, relatively speaking. By this I mean, after a year of restrictions due to a global pandemic, the momentum is present to initiate significant expansion with less hesitation and complications, and actually welcome positive growth opportunities.

The astrology chart for the New Moon is very telling in that Sun, Moon, Mercury, Venus, Ceres, Eris and Chiron are lined up in Aries. Symbolized by the Ram, Aries is the pure, unconditioned urge from spirit to express, move, and take action. Consider this, the battering ram doesn't think, if at all, but instinctively moves from a spontaneous center of strength; confident and bold, breaking through obstacles as they appear, immersed in direct experience.

On the human level, what are these possible obstacles? Apathy, inertia, confinement, despair, exhaustion . . . to name a few. The past year has been beset with one challenging complication or another, simply maneuvering through daily life has taken extra effort for many people.

This New Moon is outstanding, particularly advantageous for setting intentions for manifestation, and being able to follow through necessary steps to fulfillment. A unique planetary alignment, the minor grand trine, binds together disparate energies to work as a whole in highly creative, intuitive, insightful, “thinking outside of the box” potential.

In addition to the line-up in Aries, there is a supportive aspect between Jupiter, the planet of opportunity, and Mars, the planet of action. In combination, Jupiter and Mars work to dispel fear and confusion by instilling an element of grace, ease, optimism, and trust in positive outcomes. Individually and collectively, these planets can help us come to terms with the enormous and evolving social changes underway. While this alignment is exact on the 16th, it acts as a protective influence throughout April.

Breaking it down further, Jupiter continues its year-long transit through Aquarius. Forward thinking and solution oriented, Aquarius supports synchronicity, chance encounters, even seemingly magical occurrences. This is about collaboration, people coming together in community to solve and resolve challenges. April is the month to be more aware and appreciative of your unique tribe of fellow travelers upon the journey of life.

This trend is well supported by Mars in Gemini for a full seven weeks (March 4 – April 23). Most of us have noticed an uptick in outgoing energy. Mars in Gemini craves variety, loves company, thrives on shared experience. Restless, searching, not sure what's around the bend, but eyes wide open, nevertheless. The only caveat to this full on, no holds barred period is the impulsive nature of Mars. This is not a time to throw caution to the wind, but a time to methodically and carefully re-engage with meaningful activities.

Another significant planetary factor is Venus in stressful aspect with Pluto, and conjoining Eris (April 9 – 11), reminiscent of a popular bummer sticker, “The goddess is back and she's pissed.” On one hand, it is helpful to check, and double check, underlying motives. On the other hand, this alignment ensures a necessary reckoning in terms of personal drives in relation to others. Issues can arise around control, anger, resentment, differences in opinion and purpose. It can provide a deep penetration into the heart of matters, within and without. While personally revealing for those open to exploration, on the collective level, these aspects intensify awareness of power struggles, inequality and social justice.

Moving along . . . Sun enters Taurus on April 19. While Aries is all fire, get up and go, Taurus is stable and grounding. Thus, the progression of manifestation begins with inspiration, and continues with practical follow-through. To use the analogy of a garden, Aries gets out the rotor-tiller, preparing the soil and selecting seeds. Taurus makes sure the seeds land in fertile soil, taking root, providing favorable conditions for healthy plant growth.

While April begins with enthusiasm and drive, it will be the final two weeks when inspiration is tested in the field of practical reality. Aries and Taurus work hand in hand to make sure projects are not haphazard and impractical, but fully functional. It can be helpful to identity your place in this process. For example, some people are filled with ideas, and get the ball rolling. They can inspire others to get on board, while others find their place in carrying good ideas into step by step manifestation.

Since 1970, April 22 continues to be set aside as Earth Day, a globally recognized event, bringing awareness to environmental protection, sustainable lifestyle, and the intrinsic connection of human beings with nature. Timed perfectly, the Sun transits through earthy Taurus on an annual basis. This year is especially potent as Venus, the planet of love, beauty and creativity, exactly conjoins Uranus in Taurus, the planet of discovery. Spending time outdoors, slowing down, grounding, connecting with nature; earth-centered activities may be surprisingly evocative, tangible and awe-inspiring.

However, keeping in mind/heart, the primary planetary aspect of 2021 is Saturn in tense square to Uranus. It is exact three times (February 17, June 14, December 24), but remains within orb of influence the entire year. We will revisit this archetypal relevance repeatedly, some months more than others. This aspect brings humanity to a crossroads whereby progress, and the process of manifestation, can meet with some resistance along with instantaneous reversals, and 180 degree turns.

Metaphysically, Saturn and Uranus are associated with the root chakra of yogic tradition. Therefore, both planets are closely associated with foundations and core principles, although their action can appear quite contrary. For example, Saturn has the qualities of endurance, solidity, constancy and constraint. Uranus, on the other hand, can precipitate revelation and release, manifesting far reaching change in its wake.

Another way to look at it . . . Saturn is gravity, the downward pull of earth itself, holding all things in form. Uranus can be likened to a lightening bolt, and the instantaneous awakening of kundalini as life force, the nerve current housed in base chakra, rising through the spine, connecting with the brain. Both are necessary, both are fundamentally related to the laws of existence.

So, what are the possible effects when these planets work together? In general, 2021 is a year of stops and starts. When an impasse is reached, when a detour arises, this is the time to stop, listen to guidance, and learn from experience. When a sudden, perhaps inexplicable event occurs, get your bearings, re-calibrate, open to possibility, see the opening as freeing up attention and energy to refocus on what is truly of value.

This entire year is driving home the message of value and purpose. We will see this in the marketplace as the economy reorients from the slowdown. We will see this in our personal lives as relationships take on deeper meaning. We will see this in our spiritual life as the purpose of earth incarnation can no longer be ignored. And, of course, we will see this trend on social levels, as a resurgence of humanitarian outreach becomes the answer to so many communal challenges.

In light of this on-going Saturn/Uranus alignment, the Full Moon on April 26, is dynamic, energizing, shaking-up the status qua. The faster moving bodies such as Sun, Moon, Mercury and Venus, take turns in activating Saturn and Uranus. In fact, many individuals will find the days of April 22 – 30 to be exceptionally definitive in clarifying direction. It is like getting a road map when the terrain is steep, there is a bend in the road, and there is no going backwards.

The astrology chart for this Scorpio Full Moon shows a rare planetary configuration called a T-square. This allows a depth of processing, a natural introspection that may ignite significant shifts in perspective, especially in regard to core values. It can be helpful to ask yourself basic questions such as, “What's really important?”

At the time of this Full Moon, there is an alignment of Sun, Mercury, Venus and Uranus, all in Taurus. Hearkening back to the seminal bestseller, “Don't Sweat the Small Stuff, and It's all Small Stuff,” this is an optimal time to simplify routines, releasing and discarding what is no longer necessary and functional; mentally, emotionally and physically.

Meanwhile, Saturn transiting through Aquarius is challenging this alignment in Taurus. Resistance may arise due to the contradictory nature of Saturn and Uranus. Saturn is the planet of order, structure, compliance, and responsibility. Uranus is the planet of freedom, nonconformity, individuality and choice. Maintaining balance between order and chaos is paramount. It may be tempting to choose the easy way out, when in reality, accepting responsibility and managing expectations is the optimal way forward with the most rewarding potential.

Belinda Dunn is a professional astrologer with 40+ years experience. She is available for personal consultations. EMAIL: belinda@astrodelight.com  PHONE: 828-215-2101

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August 2019
Belinda C. Dunn

Aquarius/Leo Full Moon
August 15 @ 8:29 am

Virgo New Moon
August 30  @  6:37 am

August begins with a green light go ahead as Mercury is now direct, and a Leo New Moon sets the stage for new possibilities. Exact just before  midnight on July 31, both of these significant trends ensure that August gets off to a good start with a sense of putting the past to rest. Even though there is still clean-up from the messy eclipses of July, along with Mercury retrograde, much has has been revealed, and the way forward is a combination of “enough is enough,” and it's time to move on.

The eclipses during July were especially powerful as they activated the on-going Saturn/Pluto conjunction, a rare configuration that occurs every 35 years. While these tumultuous trends serve to excavate and expose weakness in social structures, they serve to really get the ball rolling in terms of fundamental and profound change. Even though it appears that humanity is running into a brick wall with few solutions available, this is exactly the type of planetary energy needed to breakup stagnation, and propel progress forward.

August begins with Sun, Moon, Venus and Mars transiting through Leo skies. On August 11, Mercury returns to Leo, completing its retrograde cycle that week. Leo is warm, vivacious, commanding and creative. This take charge energy can actively surmount the vacillating and uncertain trends of recent months.

At the same time, Jupiter in Sagittarius begins its annual direct phase. This gives an enthusiastic boost of optimism. With Jupiter in its home sign of Sagittarius for most of the year, the impetus has been to keep an open mind and explore options, especially in terms of ideology and belief. Based on this exploration, a new narrative is emerging, and humanity will begin to actualize and manifest expanded vision over the autumn months.

In the United States astrology chart, the zodiac sign of Sagittarius is prominent, ascending on the eastern horizon. Thus, Jupiter's current trend has the potential to upgrade and define the nation's identity. Ideals, motives and aspirations are receiving a face lift. For the most part, Americans are freethinkers, and do not like to be told what to believe or what to do. Over the coming weeks and months, it will be interesting to see how the Mueller investigation and testimony sits with the majority of voters now that foreign interference in the election process is public knowledge.

This very important process has the potential to offset, counter and balance other planetary influences, namely Saturn's transit through Capricorn. In this case, Saturn is in its home sign of Capricorn (2018-2020). Weighty, serious and consequential, this transit is the backdrop for many long standing karmic conditions coming to a crisis point. Personally and collectively, it is time to address pervasive dysfunction, and take a stand for truth and justice, ethics and morality.

Another interesting vantage point in astrological delineation is elemental balance. Infinite Source manifests in this dimension as the elements, and each zodiac sign is associated with an element: fire, air, water, earth. Contemplating the elements can be very revealing and healing.

August begins with an emphasis on the fire elemental. Fire is illuminating, hot, passionate, enthusiastic and inspiring. Fire burns away dead wood, but fire can easily get out of control, and its destructive capacity needs to be monitored and respected. Some key dates to watch for the positive activation of fire traits are August 5 – 11.

By mid-month, the elemental balance shifts to earth, signifying a practical, sensible, feet on the ground, get the job done approach. Some key dates to enhance positive earth traits begin on August 23 as the Sun enters Virgo, and continue quite strongly through the remainder of the month. In balance, fire and earth work together to breakthrough stagnation and manifest goals. Look for this energetic shift as the month unfolds.

A Full Moon on August 15 illuminates the way forward with a radical edge, and tends to stir up controversy and dissent. Sun, Mercury, Venus and Mars are all in Leo, the zodiac sign of the leader, while the Moon is in Aquarius, the zodiac sign of the community. Additionally, the voice of the public, Mercury, is in close aspect with Uranus. A veritable flood of information that has been held back will be released. Thus, sudden and radical departures from thinking inside the box of  consensus reality are possible as pieces of the puzzle fall into place.

Tension builds throughout the week of August 11, and conditions come to a critical head on the 16th. Uranus, the planet of revolutionary change, appears to be moving very slowly through the sky, due to a stationary/retrograde phase beginning on the 11th. Individuals and groups of people may be acting out of desperation, going out on a limb to advance their cause. On a positive note, look for creative and extraordinary solutions emerging for complex problems. However, be prepared for what needs to be released and put to rest.

As summer vacations begin to wind down, a Virgo New Moon sets the stage for return to work and school. On the Friday leading into Labor Day weekend, the astrology chart shows Sun, Moon, Mercury, Juno, Mars and Venus all aligned in Virgo. Clearly, this is a preponderance of  Virgo, and there are eight astrological factors in earth.

August is a transitional month in numerous ways, astrologically, socially and seasonally. There are the obvious transitions, but underneath social convention, there is a deep rumbling, a profound unrest that can only lead to major change as the decade draws to a close.

This is the month to discover your fire. What moves you? What gets you up in the morning? Tap into the freedom to create and innovate your unique life expression. By mid-month, between a Full Moon, and Mercury activating Uranus, embrace the courage and clarity to break away from limiting mindsets, habits, relationships and environments.

On August 24, Venus joins Mars in Virgo, the zodiac sign of service and stewardship. Together, the planet of love meets the planet of action. By the New Moon on August 30, it's time to plant seeds of intention that have been nurtured and held deep within. The beautiful and inspiring qualities of purpose, commitment and dedication lead the way. Love in action . . . gets the job done.

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July 2019
Belinda C. Dunn

Solar Eclipse New Moon
July 2 @  3:16 pm

Mercury Retrograde
July 7 – 31

Lunar Eclipse Full Moon
July 16  @  5:38 pm

Leo New Moon
July 31  @  11:58 pm

Marking the halfway point of 2019, July begins with a sense of destiny for our nation and the world. Long standing and consequential circumstances have remained suspended for months, if not years. This is the month of push comes to shove, patience is exhausted, the limit has been reached. Despite the chaos and turmoil, solutions emerge, and there is a clear pivot to the future.

Between a Solar Eclipse on July 2, a Lunar Eclipse on July 16, and Mercury retrograde, this is a month to proceed cautiously with a hefty dose of optimism and confidence. I am reminded of Star Trek, and the crew beaming down to potentially hostile and treacherous terrain. Preparation is essential, and in terms of planetary trends, I aim to shine a spotlight on the most positive, productive and healing direction. Let's unpack each of these significant factors in a step by step methodical way, and discover the silver lining in the stormy clouds appearing on the horizon.

First of all, eclipses are cosmic wild cards. Typically, significant events occur; shifting the terrain, altering perspective, realigning the trajectory of goals. They take the covers off, and reveal what is truly going on beneath appearances. Startling revelations can occur, and eclipses serve to shake humans out of complacency by revealing undercurrents of emotion that cannot be denied or hidden. This process can lead to comprehensive assessment and redirection.

In last month's article, I wrote in detail about the North Lunar Node in the zodiac sign of Cancer. This shows the most optimal direction which is along the lines of finding home, and cultivating a deep abiding security within and without. This is propelling individuals to find practical solutions in terms of living arrangements, family structure, income and environment.

The Solar Eclipse on July 2 closely conjoins the North Lunar Node. This beneficial combination supports clarity and direction while opening doors of opportunity. Two days before Independence Day, this eclipse also conjoins the USA Sun. In recent years, the collective identity of the nation has been demoralized and uprooted in deteriorating conditions threatening the stability of democracy. No doubt, these eclipses can serve to bring these matters into the light of day with repercussions for years to come.

Astrologers have been following the trends for both the Declaration of Independence (July 4, 1776), and the United States Constitution (September 17, 1787). Considering these charts and current trends, Neptune, the planet of confusion, delusion and glamour has been weaving a spell, undermining the original tenets of the founding fathers. More than likely, it is time for an upgrade, but governing structures are in a state of disarray, and this process will take time.

Recently, I came across a a fascinating reference to the Constitution in the long time bestseller, “The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People.” Written in 1989, author Stephen Covey states, “The United States Constitution is the standard by which every law in the country is evaluated. It is the document the president agrees to defend and support when he takes the Oath of Office. It is the foundation and the center that enables people to ride through major traumas such as the Civil War, Vietnam, or Watergate. The Constitution has endured and serves it vital function today because it is based on correct principles, on the self-evident truths contained in the Declaration of Independence. These principles empower the Constitution with a timeless strength, even in the midst of social ambiguity and change. “Our peculiar security,” said Thomas Jefferson, “is in the possession of a written Constitution.”

Covey's book is written for the individual, yet remains so timely in the search for meaning and mission in the current social climate. This brings us to the other half of this astrological equation, the South Lunar Node in Capricorn. On July 16, a Full Moon Lunar Eclipse activates across the zodiac polarity of Cancer and Capricorn. Along with Saturn and Pluto transiting through Capricorn, pressure has been building for real evolutionary change.

This is all fairly clear on the national level, just turn on the news, but let's take a look at the possibilities on a more personal level. Both of these zodiac signs are about governing systems. Symbolically, Cancer represents parenting, the family unit, and the essential balance of proper discipline while providing sustenance and safety. Capricorn represents larger governing bodies designed to provide structure for cohesive social organization.  These eclipses can highlight and expose systemic weakness in these structures, and the reality of pervasive dysfunction on many levels.

Therapists will be busy this month, as people are waking up from the trance of conditioning, ready for healing around early childhood experience. These deeply embedded emotional layers can easily peel off and resolve, once and for all. There is a impulse to move beyond external authority to internalize discipline that comes naturally as a function of participation. With these new eyes, it is possible to take steps toward healthy function, including a genuine sense of belonging.

However, the flip side of belonging is alienation and separation. These themes are painfully present as individuals come to terms with family of origin issues, generational differences, potential effects of addiction, financial limitations, and a host of various stresses threatening to undermine the sanctity of this most basic unit of family.

These planetary trends are putting pressure on households across the country as well as the globe. As Saturn slowly moves toward a conjunction with Pluto in 2020, economic and political conditions are calling for adjustments, putting the squeeze on large segments of the population. For example, loss, deprivation, desperation and untold suffering is the backdrop for the refugee crisis along so many borders. Additionally, mass migrations are taking place as natural disasters displace whole communities.

These times are not for the faint of heart. Even though the eclipses in July can exacerbate these conditions, as the common adage states, “Necessity is the mother of invention.” The overall tone for July is adapt and adjust, get real, and take care of business. Whenever Saturn is involved, there is a need for patience, endurance, forbearance, maturity and discipline.

Another planetary factor pointing to an attitude of patient allowing is Mercury retrograde. From July 7 – 31, this important planet of communication is pausing for purposes of review. The pressure to evolve, improve, change and grow is enormous right now on many levels of personal and collective experience.

Mercury goes retrograde 3 times a year for approximately 21 days. There can be a wide range of effects depending on zodiac signs and planetary aspects. In general, Mercury retrograde is excellent for research, gathering more information, and widening perspective. The more troubling and frustrating issues can include misunderstandings, technical problems, breakdowns, and delays.

This particular Mercury retrograde begins in the zodiac sign of Leo, suggesting that autonomy, freedom, humor and creativity will play a significant role in solutions. Mercury joins our Sun on July 21st, and this is always an important day in any retrograde cycle. Look for key insights and communication supporting clarity and resolution.

When Mercury goes direct on July 31, it has retrograded back into the zodiac sign of Cancer, emphasizing the on-going themes of home, family, security and belonging. Additionally, Mercury touches back into Saturn/Pluto territory, bringing long term issues full circle. For those that have done their due diligence, there will be more perspective into complex matters. Synchronously, just before midnight on July 31, a Leo New Moon comes along to seal the deal. By month's end, there is a sense of moving forward with realistic, productive and effective plans.

One more fascinating twist in July's planetary picture features an alignment with Mercury, Mars and Uranus.  Exact on July 8, with significant influence during the first two weeks of July, Mercury joins Mars in Leo. Bringing issues to the table for discussion, this is a frank, bold, “tell it like it is,” combination. Additionally, on July 11, Mars is in stressful alignment with Uranus, one of the most rebellious and freedom seeking of planetary combinations. Be prepared for surprising turns of fate and fortune during this breakthrough week.

In considering this Mercury/Mars/Uranus alignment on a symbolic level, it shows possible disruption of power. There are a number of possible manifestations, especially in terms of electricity, power grids, cyber-security, science and technology. This unusual combination is erratic, high intensity, pulsing with energetic downloads.

On the personal level, it is an excellent time to journal, express and create. This planetary configuration can heighten sensitivity, and consequently jangle the nerves. Activities that calm the nervous system can help to ground and nourish the body.

In recent weeks, I have noticed the frequent use of the word “existential,” to the point of looking it up in the dictionary, and researching its meaning. I came across, “If something is existential, it has to do with human existence. If you wrestle with the big questions involving the meaning of life, you may be having an existential crisis.”

It appears the collective mind is questioning the meaning and purpose of life. Even though the word existential tends to be coupled with negative words such as threat, angst and crisis (fill in the blank), this is actually a good thing. It is essential, necessary and healthy to question this reality! It's part of waking up and staying awake to find meaning in this extraordinary cosmic experience. Look around you . . . really take it in. Every part of life is a miracle, happening right now.

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June 2019
Belinda C. Dunn

Gemini New Moon
June 3  @  6:02 am

Gemini/Sagittarius Full Moon
June 17  @  4:31 am

A New Moon in Gemini launches the new month. In this flowing, cyclical dance of life, there are always endings and beginnings, and Gemini knows this well. As our Sun transits through Gemini, each of us can benefit from the curious, adventurous and adaptable qualities of this zodiac  energy.

At its very best, Gemini instills an atmosphere of open mindedness. Consider for a moment the qualities of air, the element associated with Gemini.  Breathing, speaking, singing . . . air flows within us and around us. Air is invisible, yet its effects are profound. Air is the connective atmosphere of communication and free exchange of thoughts and ideas within the shifting landscape of public discourse.

Many of the planetary trends for June are transitional in nature as individuals, the nation, and the world stand on the threshold of new experience. It is clear, a major evolutionary leap is in process. The stakes are high. The Gemini New Moon seeds the potential for important conversations over the course of the expanding lunar cycle.

The natural inclination of Gemini is to be open, frank and free. These traits are intensified by the Full Moon on June 17. At this point, the Moon in Sagittarius joins Jupiter in Sagittarius. A multitude of issues are on the table for discussion, but not necessarily resolution. It is essential to sort through ideas and ask questions to clearly determine what is viable, possible, and practical in the long run. This is a month to explore options, and stay awake to reality.

As Jupiter transits through Sagittarius, the call for truth and justice is front and center. Along with the tension of this Full Moon, Jupiter is in stressful alignment to Neptune. The fine line between reality and illusion is vacillating, fluctuating daily, subject to argument, righteous indignation and controversy. In this atmosphere of dissent, individuals and groups are more susceptible to manipulation of the facts, propaganda and zealous ideals. Emotions are heightened and nerves are raw.

During the Trump presidency, public discourse has been louder and more persuasive than ever. It is now reaching a fever pitch. The call for diplomatic, productive and realistic dialog has long been ignored, but the voice of reason can no longer be restrained.

The first stressful aspect between Jupiter and Neptune took place in mid-January. Launching 2019, these planets gave a boost of exuberant optimism along with tendencies toward excess, over extension of resources, and an escalation of the crazy, weird and bizarre.

However, as these planets come into exact alignment on June 16, optimism may be waning, and getting an attitude adjustment. The third and final alignment takes place on the Autumnal Equinox. Thus, 2019 is a strange blend of fact and fiction, and it is up to each of us to navigate these trends on a personal level, and make decisions accordingly.

Neptune is, by far, one of the more difficult planets to get a handle on. As the “pie in the sky” planet, it inspires vision and uplifts consciousness. But all too often, its effects can appear enthralling, glamorous, nebulous, dreamy and confusing. A Neptune transit tends to sap energy and dissolve resolve. It is appropriate that mind altering substances, and addiction itself, comes under Neptune's rule.

Eventually and inevitably, every idealistic Neptune vision is tested in the tangible world of fact and form. On June 16, the same day of the second stressful alignment between Jupiter and Neptune, Saturn is in harmonious and supportive aspect with Neptune. On a planetary level, Saturn is the voice of reason as well as the voice of wisdom and maturity.

Astrologer Leah Whitehorse articulates this beautifully, “If we are going to create anything at all, we need to find a starting point, so we can make a sensible plan. Saturn reminds us that we can't just wave a magic wand and hope our dreams will manifest. Neither can we expect a lucky break to appear out of nothing. Fulfilling our dreams takes hard work, dedication and self discipline – and most of all, time.”

Sound harsh? That's Saturn the taskmaster. The voices of reason and practicality are blending with voices of hopeful idealism. This is well and good, and from a positive standpoint, greatly accentuates imagination, whimsy and creativity. However, the contradictory nature of the mind itself can present challenges. It's essential to pay attention, and sort out various points of view.

Overall, June is the reality check month on many levels of individual and collective experience. This process is supported and magnified by the Sun, Mercury and Mars transiting through the zodiac sign of Cancer. Mars entered Cancer on May 15, and will remain in Cancer all month. Mercury is in Cancer for most of the month (June 4 – 26), and our Sun marks its annual entrance into Cancer on the Summer Solstice.

Add to these fast moving transits . . . the fact that the North Lunar Node is currently in the zodiac sign of Cancer. The North Lunar Node is like an arrow pointing in the most optimal, advantageous and productive direction. It fundamentally lights the way, and is a key factor in the manifestation of eclipses, and the next round of eclipses are looming on the horizon with a Solar Eclipse on July 2, and a Lunar  Eclipse on July 16. Therefore, circumstances in June will spill over into July with major consequences for the long haul.

While conditions have been building for some time, it is Mars in opposition to Saturn on June 14, and Mercury in opposition to Saturn on June 16, that reality sets in. Hitting the wall, individuals and groups will be encountering limitations, examining ethics, and defining responsibilities. Relationships can appear one-sided, especially in the home and work environment, as people are encountering the boundaries of what is, and what is not, acceptable and even doable. A supportive attitude is to focus on what is working rather than give into Saturn's propensity for cynical negativity.

This second week of June sets the stage, but the week to watch starts with the Full Moon on Monday, June 17, and wraps up with the Summer Solstice on Friday, June 21. These significant cosmic events act like bookends to an exact alignment between Mercury, Mars and Pluto. This very stressful and combustive combination of planetary energies can bring numerous issues to a critical climax.

On Tuesday, June 18, Mercury joins Mars in a frank conversation of  blunt and undiluted truth. Words that may have been held back in courtesy and caution tend to erupt and explode. If you find yourself or others in an irritable or combative frame of mind, this is a day to be extremely aware of what needs to be said, and perhaps what needs to remain unspoken. This combination tends to be impulsive, and accident prone, therefore exercise caution in all matters, not to the point of rigidity, but keenly aware of these potent planetary forces at work.

The very next day, on Wednesday, June 19, this Mercury/Mars combination makes an opposition with Pluto. Respected astrologer Robert Hand writes, “This transit can represent the culmination of successful effort, or it can be a time when the opposition becomes so fierce that you have to give up. This transit is a powerful sign of severe interpersonal power struggles. The chief danger is that either you or your opponent in a struggle will act with absolutely no regard for ethics or for the other person's feelings and situation. This combination acts ruthlessly and relentlessly.” And, I might add, unconsciously.

In consideration of current events, and in light of the USA astrology chart, this planetary combination suggests that what has been hidden from the public is ready to be exposed, especially information regarding legal and financial matters. More than likely, there will be major power plays in an attempt to hide information that can very well alter the course of history. The writing is on the wall . . . whether it's Trump's tax returns, tariff negotiations with China, the Middle East, immigration, stalemate in congress, the stock market, the economy itself, this is a critical time for the nation.

On the personal level, let's hone in on the conjunction of Mercury, Mars and the North Lunar Node. One of the definitions for hone is, “to make more acute, intense or effective.” In this case, the process of honing is actually a homing. All these astrological factors are in Cancer, the zodiac sign of safety, security, family and home.

This combination can produce a heightened and persistent nagging, a genuine gut response toward safety, and even retreat if necessary. Fight, flight or freeze? People will be feeling and acknowledging vulnerability, and the ways they do not feel secure. Beneath the surface, behind the scenes, and out in the open, people will be asking questions, and making decisions based on what feels safe. These themes span every aspect of life on the individual and collective levels.

On an annual basis, our Sun reaches its zenith, marking the longest day of the year in the northern hemisphere. Additionally, from our  vantage point on Earth, Neptune appears to be stationary (June 17 – 25), initiating its annual retrograde phase exactly on June 21, the Summer Solstice. The mystical and magical essence of Neptune's long term transit through Pisces is blending with the Sun's illumination to expand human consciousness beyond its current state.

Summer is typically a season for recreation, a chance to step away from daily routine, and explore new horizons. As June draws to a close, four major planets are retrograde, and working in pairs. The consequential and heavy planetary influences of Saturn/Pluto are slowing things down, calling a halt to forward momentum and progress. This is necessary for catching up, resting up, and reviewing long term goals.

The inspirational planets of Jupiter and Neptune are working together to uplift vision, and bestow a more transcendent point of view. Clearly, if there was ever a time to invoke the surprisingly present and transforming power of the supernatural, it's now.

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May 2019
Belinda C. Dunn

Taurus New Moon
May 4  @  6:46 pm

Taurus/Scorpio Full Moon
May 18  @  5:11 pm

Welcome to glorious May! Everywhere we gaze, earth is coming alive as delicate buds burst forth while every shade of green leaf unfolds, perfectly orchestrated, in rhythm with the heartbeat of life itself.

The month starts with a New Moon in Taurus, the zodiac sign of sensuality. Seeing, hearing, smelling, tasting and touching, each of the five senses awaken in appreciation for the beauty and experience of this natural world. Out of all the zodiac signs, the essence of Taurus is finding enjoyment in simply being alive.

Astrologers give consideration to elemental forces of fire, air, water and earth. The chart for the New Moon on May 4, shows a 50% emphasis on the earth element. By the Full Moon on May 18, the chart shows 60% earth. So, according to the common adage, it's time to take the Taurus bull by the horns; get real, down to earth, and take active, determined steps in the manifestation of goals.

Against this backdrop of nature's beauty, humans continue to parade across the stage of life. For the most part, humanity appears to be asleep, entranced, lost and forgetful, missing the true purpose and delight of what it means to be embodied. However, current planetary trends are functioning as an alarm clock, shaking us from slumber with an enormous, unmistakable, and electrifying jolt of wake up potential.

During the final week of April, from our vantage point on Earth, two major planets entered a retrograde phase. On April 24, Pluto went retrograde, and on April 29, Saturn went retrograde. In general, this signals a necessary pause, an apparent halt to forward movement for purposes of completion and integration. It's not that life doesn't move forward, it simply means the “to do” list has reached its limit, and in many cases, there is a backlog of complication that cannot be solved overnight. These consequential and slow moving planets will remain retrograde throughout the spring and summer months.

Not only are these planets retrograde, but they are currently within 3 degrees of each other in the zodiac sign of Capricorn. The lunar nodes and the current eclipse cycle adds intensity to this alignment as Saturn conjoins the south lunar node on May 20, June 23 and September 15.

To give perspective, let's consider the long term transits of Saturn and Pluto. Saturn takes approximately 29 years to orbit through the entire zodiac. Pluto's orbit is almost beyond conceptualization of time, taking 248 years to circle the zodiac sky. Therefore, they reach conjunction every 37-38 years, marking major events that shift consciousness, resulting in significant historical turning points.

For example, the last conjunction took place in the zodiac sign of Libra in 1981-82. Reagan was president,  a recession was affecting the USA economy, and Epcot, Disney's futuristic theme park, opened. The previous conjunction took place in Leo during the years 1946-47, as the world recovered from the unfathomable destruction of WWII. Truman was president, Stalin was still in power, the Diary of Anne Frank was published, and the baby boom was in full swing.

These planets mark the cycles of life, with a long term generational influence. Astrologer Lorna Bevan writes, “This aspect has a long story-arc. It brings to a close a cycle begun in November 1982 and opens a new cycle of your personal history and especially of American history. To put it in perspective: the last time Saturn/Pluto met in Capricorn was in 1518 when Martin Luther began the Protestant revolution.”

For those you familiar with the Tarot deck of divination, this current era can be likened to The Tower, representing the decay and fall of long standing power structures relating to ideology, authority and control. All together, current trends point to a rare, once in a lifetime, cosmic moment. What this means, practically and spiritually, will be the theme for months to come as Saturn and Pluto will exactly conjoin in January 2020. Nationally and globally, history is being written before our eyes.

Taking many forms, April was a month of crisis. In the wake of controversy and suspense, destruction and tumult, reality begins to set in during the first week of May. Mars in Gemini makes a conjunction with the highly sensitive and inflammatory point between Trump's chart and the country. A detailed analysis of this trend is described in last month's article, posted on my website.

Another significant planetary combination involves Mercury and Venus transiting through Aries. On May 1-2, Mercury brings important information to the light of day as it activates in stressful alignment with Saturn/Pluto while conjoining Eris, the planet of radical, revolutionary and evolutionary awakening. Communications can take the form of hard conversations that press the necessity to make difficult decisions. On May 7-9, Venus transits over this same degree, lending a helping hand, increasing the potential for acceptance of differences in opinion and approach.

On a personal level, awareness of these trends can automatically improve the flow of everyday events. There are two competing factors; the immediacy of now and the reality of time. It is tempting to fight or resist the need for patience, discipline, and realistic appraisal of goals in the desire for immediate relief. Complications can arise due to poor timing, such as acting too fast or too late. This can feel jerky and stressful, but easily remedied through exercising sound judgment in manifesting solutions.

These planetary trends are stirring up subconscious programming that is very karmic in nature. At times, these blocks in the energy field can feel invisible and daunting, even impossible to overcome. If you find yourself slipping into self-defeating and pessimistic attitudes, it can be helpful to question the root cause of these attitudes. In most cases, this means radically breaking free from conditioning and projections, within and without. This is the month to head off negativity, and take conscious steps to enhance worthiness. In other words, give yourself a break, forgive past mistakes, and let the planets give you a face lift of self esteem.

There is a clear demarcation between the first half of May, and second half. Planetary factors contribute to a more settling and stabilizing atmosphere as Mercury transitions into practical, realistic and grounded Taurus on May 6. During the week of May 13, Venus enters Taurus and Mars enters Cancer. All together, these shifts can foster a healing connection to one's roots. This may include an instinct to retreat and nurture close relationships, the home environment, family and garden.

This week leads into a very sacred Full Moon on Saturday, May 18. Known as Wesak Festival, Sun transits through Taurus, and the Moon is exactly opposite in Scorpio. On an annual basis, mystics, spiritual aspirants and light workers gather in meditation around the globe.

Many legends surround this festival. From an astrological perspective, Taurus and Scorpio represent the natural cycle of birth, growth, culmination, decay, completion and rebirth. The illumination from this Full Moon can dissolve the boundaries between dimensions, supporting access to guidance and enlightened consciousness. It is optimal for a reset. If you choose to consciously honor Wesak, feel free to send an email request for more detailed information (belinda@astrodelight.com).

During the week of May 20, Sun and Mercury transit into the zodiac sign of Gemini. Working in tandem, and exact on Tuesday, May 21, this is a very important week for communication. For some people, this process can be more internalized as key realizations take place within self. In general, Gemini is outgoing, active, curious and expressive. There is a natural inclination to get moving, out and about, and make decisions for summer travel plans.

Exploration and discovery can take many forms as Jupiter is transiting through Sagittarius until December. 2019 is a year of expanding horizons. If you find yourself yearning for greener pastures, pay attention. Many times, the urge to expand can come from boredom, feeling caged in, and limited by circumstances. Jupiter's beneficent rays can break through obstacles, instilling optimism, confidence and enthusiasm.

Human beings have the tendency to project the present onto the future. From utopia to dystopia, an overwhelming array of predictions are being made, but I sense the reality is somewhere in between, even beyond current standards and concepts. Powerfully enlightening planetary trends during May evoke an invitation to see through the veils of physicality while remaining more embodied and grounded than ever. Enjoy!

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April 2019
Belinda C. Dunn

Aries New Moon
April 5  @  4:50 am

Aries/Libra Full Moon
April 19  @  7:12 am

The scents and sights of spring surround us as the season gets fully underway. An increase of sunlight hours, along with nature's splendor, creates a buoyant rising up of vitality and enthusiasm.

Planetary trends during April are quite a contrast from March, a month of introspection provided by Mercury retrograde in Pisces (March 5 – 28). Mercury, the planet of everyday consciousness and communication, entered the watery depths of Pisces on February 10. The soul searching and turbulent nature of this transit has been churning up emotion in a sink or swim environment.

It is fascinating to note that Mueller's long awaited report was completed and released as retrograde Mercury was making its second conjunction to Neptune. The month begins with Mercury just turning direct, making its third and final conjunction to Neptune on April 2. It is suggested that Mueller's findings “raise more questions than answers,” and the timing demonstrates a striking combination of Mercury's capacity for articulation and delineation into matters that can be  confusing, disorienting, abstract and moralistic.

On a personal level, it can be helpful to consider realizations you have come to over these weeks, especially as Mercury wraps up its sojourn in Pisces on April 16, entering Aries on April 17. The dreamy and visionary potential of Mercury in Pisces is ready to be actualized and manifested.

While March brings to mind images of floating through foggy mists in search of footing, April brings to mind the readiness of a racetrack.  Green grass radiates in vibrant technicolor as stately and well trained horses are led to the starting gate. Spectators wait on the edge of their seats as expectation and excitement permeate the air. It's spring, and we're off to the races!

Thus, April is a pivotal month as pure light-filled prana burns through any remaining fog and confusion. Clarity dawns bright. It is now possible to make better decisions, and ultimately take clearly directed action.

Let's begin with the New Moon in Aries on April 5 (4:50 am EDT). As the first sign on the zodiac wheel, Aries represents the undiluted pristine urge of Source to manifest in this physical dimension. This is the time to really pay attention to your motivation, and pave the way with sincere awareness and intention.

The archetypal essence of Aries is bold and courageous, confident and strong, intense and directed. It can be helpful to know where this New Moon lines up in your personal astrology chart. This is the area of life where you are called to pick yourself up, dust yourself off, and face forward.

Aries is symbolized by the rambunctious Ram, energetically breaking through barriers and limitations. When Mercury enters Aries on April 17, Venus closely follows, entering Aries on April 20. A sense of rejuvenation, resurrection and rebirth are celebrated on this Easter weekend. From the personal to the collective, these themes will manifest in a variety of ways.

Contributing to the planetary picture, Mars is in Gemini for the entire month of April. The zodiac signs of Aries and Gemini work hand in hand, harmonizing and blending the Aries urge to be actively engaged with the Gemini urge to give voice in self expression. Together these signs are primarily extroverted, out and about, on the go, conversing, learning and exploring.

Mars transiting through Gemini (March 31 – May 15) will give voice to many current social trends. For example, a recent study show the rise of white nationalism is up 182% over the past year. Over the course of Trump's presidency there has been growing dissent and division in the social fabric holding this nation together, and social media is spreading these ideas abroad. These complex issues are building in intensity, and what has been on the back burner will now seek expression and direction.

As the warrior planet, Mars will fight for what it “thinks” is right. In the zodiac sign of Gemini, the translator and communicator, April is a month of collective outcry. Many points of view will be vying for attention, authority and power. In a cacophony of dissent, this process can easily turn into a shouting match to the point that many voices may threaten to drown out the voice of reason.

This brings us to the USA astrology chart, and the destiny of a nation. At the time of the Declaration of Independence (July 4, 1776), Mars was strongly placed in Gemini. Characterizing the fighting spirit of the nation, Mars in Gemini is about working through differences to discover commonality and authentic expression. The Gemini twins can face each other, communicate and focus on similarities, or turn away and focus on differences.

Out of all the zodiac signs, Gemini aims for unity in diversity, but the flip side is prejudice and judgment. In fact, the country has fought numerous wars based on the “enemy,” rather than embrace the potential of common purpose and genuine human connection beyond stereotypes. Additionally, the nation's chart shows Mars in stressful alignment with Neptune signifying heightened emotional idealism, and attachment to principles that may or may not have any basis in reality.

Repeatedly, throughout its history, the country's backbone has been  communication along with numerous inventions that have advanced and expanded the potential for interconnection. Since the advent of the internet, this capacity has grown exponentially. On a global level, news is instantaneous and compelling in its potential to unite or divide humanity.

This brings us to Donald Trump, and his entrance on the national and international stage. His charisma as a savvy media driven entertainer catapulted him into power. In the years leading up to his election, the media became fixated on him, and this obsession continues to this day.

From an astrological perspective, Trump's public persona is exemplified by his Sun and Uranus in Gemini. This shows a very eccentric, independent, magnetic, strong willed and “know it all” type of personality. His vocal expression tends to be impulsive, rash, animated, persuasive, inflammatory, and entrenched in his own point of view.

The synergy between Trump and the USA chart shows a profound alignment and activation of the country's Mars in Gemini. Each zodiac sign has a vast array for potential expression. In the case of Gemini, the low side demonstrates characteristics such as dishonesty, duplicity, bias, prejudice, gossip and slander. The high side of Gemini expresses as conversational, impartial, honest, transparent, fact based, synergistic, realistic and wise.

From an astrological point of view, Trump's personality literally incites and activates the divisive and fighting spirit inherent in the country's collective mindset. Over the coming weeks, transiting Mars in Gemini activates the exact numerical degree of this potent alignment between Trump and the nation's core identity. The timing is extraordinary, and momentum builds to the second half of April, and the first week of May. Even though it appears that a constitutional crisis has been averted, April is a critical turning point in this complex and controversial predicament.

In this war of words, there are no easy and quick solutions, and once again, planetary trends suggest the timing. During the final week of April, two major planets are stationary, beginning a long retrograde period. Pluto is retrograde from April 25 – October 3. Saturn is retrograde from April 29 – September 18.

Not only are these two potent and consequential planets going retrograde within days of each other, but they are within three degrees of each other in the zodiac sign of Capricorn. It is rare for these two planets to come together. The last time that Saturn and Pluto joined was 1982. Therefore, planet Earth is witnessing the completion of a 38 year cycle with exactitude in January 2020.

Another major factor plays into and intensifies the slowly approaching conjunction of Saturn and Pluto. The south lunar node, referred to as the Dragon's Tail, is currently in Capricorn. As Saturn goes retrograde on April 29, it exactly conjoins the south lunar node. Taking all these factors into consideration, a consequential reckoning is taking place on many levels of our collective experience as humanity stands at a karmic crossroads.

This is a very big deal with far reaching repercussions, far beyond Trump and the current administration. Saturn is a planet of principles, the foundation of rules, laws, regulations, social structures and government. Pluto is the wrecking ball of planets. In mythology, Pluto is god of the underworld. One of its primary functions is to expose corruption, and dismantle structures that allow individuals and groups to hide in the shadows of criminality.

Energetically, it appears that very consequential and heavy situations are moving full speed ahead, and there is progress. However, a great deal of data will surface during the month of April, and it may take months to assimilate and integrate this information to a point of clarity, effective action and resolution. In the meantime, many areas of our collective experience may hang in the balance.

On a personal level, it can be helpful to know where Saturn and Pluto are transiting through your astrology chart. These are areas of life that may feel out of your control, and appear to be deteriorating. This can be frustrating to say the least, but these areas of life can benefit and improve through realistic appraisal, discipline, patience and a good dose of detachment.

Lightening up the planetary perspective is the Full Moon on April 19, followed by the Sun's entrance into Taurus on the 20th. Not only is this Easter weekend, but Earth Day is the 22nd. Especially pay attention to the Sun's conjunction with Uranus in Taurus exact at 7:05 pm on Earth Day.

Uranus entered Taurus on March 6, and will remain in this very earthy and practical zodiac sign for the next 7 years. As the Sun joins and activates Uranus on Earth Day, new trends will be illuminated, because Uranus is the planet of innovation and progress. Amplifying the body's sensing capacity, this activation has the potential to bring more awareness to one's physical reality. Over the next seven years, there will be major advancements in understanding the body, and the multidimensional nature of existence. Uranus in Taurus supports initiatives on behalf of the environment, and the sustainability of life on Earth.

In the early 1980's, I participated in an organization named CHOICE, an acronym for Choosing Healthy Options In Changing Environments. We hosted think tank workshops on a variety of topics including the natural environment, lifestyle, healing, future trends, and the unfolding of global consciousness.

Planetary trends during April present this choice. As individuals, as a nation, and as a planetary organism, we may ask ourselves, “What is healthy, what is life giving and life sustaining?” Real and eternal answers promise to surprise the mind, and delight the senses. Stepping aside from the noisy distractions of daily life, planting feet and standing tall, it's time to plug into beautiful and precious Earth.

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March 2019
Belinda C. Dunn

Mercury retrograde
March 5 – 28

Uranus enters Taurus
March 6 @ 3:35 am

Pisces New Moon
March 6 @ 11:04 am

Spring Equinox
March 20 @ 5:59 pm

Aries/Libra Full Moon
March 20 @ 9:43 pm

As noted above, March is a month of significant and profound shifts in  astrological trends. The familiar adage, “March comes in like a lion and goes out like a lamb,” sums up the prevailing atmosphere on many levels of personal, transpersonal and collective experience. As the last vestiges of fierce winter wind blow away stagnation, there is a sense of purification and release in preparation for a major seasonal shift. By month's end, a more gentle, grounding and calm atmosphere prevails.

Let's begin with Mercury entering a retrograde phase on March 5. In addition, this is the day before a New Moon in Pisces. Therefore, at the very end of a lunar cycle, in the dark of the Moon, Mercury joins in to convey a message of slow down, don't think so fast, it's OK to pause and reflect.

Why exactly? More than likely, a conundrum of ambiguous mixed messages are swirling around, presenting complex dilemmas, and there are no easy answers. This is not the time to make assumptions, but to ask questions, seek guidance, and listen sincerely. Answers are forthcoming, but they cannot be clearly accessed from habitual ways of thinking and doing.
Contributing to a prevailing atmosphere of uncertainty, and even a sense of “flying blind,” is the New Moon on March 6. As our Sun and Moon conjoin, they exactly align with Neptune, the planetary ruler of Pisces. In mythology, Neptune is the god of oceanic depths, holding his trident, ruling over the restless and mysterious realms of undulating seas.

Let's consider the fact that planet Earth is halfway through Neptune's long term transit through Pisces (2012 – 2025). Just like the ocean, Neptune's influence on terrestrial affairs can vacillate between extreme highs and lows. Through various means, Neptune dissolves the boundaries of everyday consciousness, opening perception to a multidimensional cosmos. As the planet of contrast, its influence can feel confusing, hard to define, and bring a person to their knees in surrender.

Astrologers attribute several important social trends to Neptune's influence in Pisces. Considering that Pisces represents places for retreat, confinement, healing and solitude, a variety of large institutions are being affected. Prisons and the criminal justice system are due for reform. Medical care and hospital systems are being bought and sold, remodeled and expanded. Meanwhile, the planetary energies for March shine a spotlight on the most needy and vulnerable sectors of the population.

Neptune's most fundamental influence is to escape or transcend. On one hand, substance abuse is running rampant throughout society as people seek diversion and escape from the pressures of daily life. Another potential pitfall can manifest as apathy, aimlessness, self-pity and resignation.

On the other hand, there is a spiritual renaissance taking place as meditation, yoga and a variety of spiritual techniques are growing in public awareness. Thus, Neptune presents a stark contrast between destructive options, and life promoting, healthy lifestyle choices.

When an individual is tapping into the highest potential for Neptune, there is an attitude of “being in the world, but not of it.” In the quest for meaning and transcendence, altered states of consciousness may be invisible to the vast majority of people. However, to the person experiencing these rarefied and elevated states, human life becomes a gracious, beautiful and miraculous gift.

As astrology gives the gift of timing, let's lay out the time frame. Look back to the powerful Super Full Moon on February 19. On that very day, Mercury joined Neptune in Pisces. You may ask yourself, did anything (events, discussions, creative projects, insights) call for your attention? Contemplating the vast expanse of your eternal being . . . is anything stirring and shifting in your consciousness? Be aware of these subtle, or not so subtle, urges as Mercury goes retrograde on March 5, followed closely by the Pisces New Moon on March 6.

Before and after, when Mercury goes direct on March 28, it is closely aligned with Neptune (March 24 and April 2). This signals a decisive moment, but complete clarity and resolution may not come until mid-April when Mercury leaves the zodiac sign of Pisces and enters Aries on April 17.

At the time of writing this article, Trump just announced a national emergency. Considering the planetary trends, especially in regard to Mercury, it doesn't bode well for successful manifestation of long-term goals. In fact, the very image of Mercury in Pisces brings to mind a child playing at the seaside, only to have the next wave dissolve the sand castle in a matter of minutes. In the meantime, chaos and confusion reign supreme, keeping law makers on their toes in terms of feasible solutions.

This brings us to the Spring Equinox on March 20. Typically, this a time of tremendous surges in vitality and energy. However, with Mercury in Pisces for 9 weeks (February 10 – April 17), there may be a lag time. The dreamy, emotional, fertile, romantic, artistic and  humanitarian energy of Pisces prevails for the time being.

That said, the Equinox is powerfully combined with a Full Moon. On the evening of March 20, just as our Sun is entering Aries, the Moon enters Libra. This Full Moon can surface and illuminate issues in regard to relationships. Generally, the Sun in Aries tends to be self-motivated and independently driven, whereas the Moon in Libra is about collaboration, and finding common ground.

In big and small ways, lines are drawn in the sand. You may consider the areas of your life where you need to act boldly and independently, and the areas of your life where it is advantageous to slow down in order to collaborate and harmonize with others. For the most part, relationships require  adaptation and conversation. This Full Moon highlights these important matters that can make or break relationships and alliances.

In the swimming, swirling and choppy seas of human experience, these prominent astrological trends can feel like treading water, in a sink or swim environment. The collective consciousness may be faced with events that incite a veritable tidal wave of emotional reaction, changing terrain and altering perception. In times like this, when large numbers of people encounter forces beyond their control, there may be no other choice than to get out of the way, and seek higher ground.

There is good news from the planetary perspective as Uranus enters Taurus on March 6. Just in the nick of time, Taurus is the most earthy,  grounding and stabilizing of zodiac energies. Boosting common sense and bolstering morale, Uranus will remain in Taurus for the next seven years.

Uranus is the planet of innovation and progress. There will be advances in the flow and exchange of money and resources. New channels will open for an abundance of positive green energy to flow throughout the world economy. This includes an increasing awareness of the natural environment, and the mounting crisis for survival and sustainability.

Inventive and solution oriented, Uranus in Taurus is ready and poised to offer viable options in many areas of our collective experience. Uranus in Taurus can enhance a mindset of prosperity, and an attitude of gratitude. In so many instances, there is plenty of money and plenty of good will, but society is encountering a problem with distribution.

This brings us to another major planetary influence, the approaching joining of Saturn and Pluto in Capricorn. Even though the exact conjunction takes place in January 2020, humanity is already experiencing a building crescendo of far reaching challenges that demand fundamental change. As the planet of law and order, Saturn's influence is always very consequential. Meanwhile, Pluto is exposing the corrosive nature of greed and self interest on many levels of our collective experience. More on this next month, as these heavy hitters come within 3 degrees of each other, and enter their yearly retrograde phase by the end of April.

On the personal level, you might be encountering real life circumstances that require a transformation of what is not working in your life. Saturn in Capricorn instills a sense of duty, grit and determination to work through the underlying issues that Pluto brings to the surface. The breakdown/breakthrough process is leading to a rebuilding in some area of your life. Resolution and direction is supported by a patient, practical, disciplined and focused approach.

All together, the planetary trends during March invoke vision, inspiration, direction and clarity. Take time out from the busyness of everyday life to settle and quiet the monkey mind. Pay attention to the still, small voice within. Guidance is readily available in moments of receptive quietude. Looking up, every moment is a chance to choose wisely, bringing heaven a little closer to planet Earth.