PHOTO © ALEX CARRILLO

Monday, December 28

As Saturn moves through the sign of Libra in the coming years, we are collectively being faced with questions that will help us define our concept of fair and balanced. Public attention will continue to turn to issues that involve relationships, women’s health, femininity, and justice as these areas of society are examined, and potentially scrutinized.

Today with Saturn aspecting Venus, Libra’s planetary ruler, we are given a taste of this on a personal level as well. We may come up against restrictions in our relationships that provide a means for weighing and measuring the true value with which we accord them. Or, experiences may arise that make us question or redefine our idea(l)s of femininity—what it mean to be a woman and/or in touch with our anima.

With Mercury conjunct the North Node as well as the Moon connecting to Jupiter and Neptune, our dreams, daydreams, and train-of-consciousness thoughts may provide us with a stream of intuitive insights that help us become more clear in the Libran areas of our lives.

Tuesday, December 29

When the Sun is in Capricorn there’s an emphasis on practicality and what it takes to build structures that have applicable merit and lasting value. With the Moon in inquiring Gemini all day, we have at our disposal an enhanced curiosity to find out the facts and figures that can support our Capricorn-related pursuits.

For a reflection on the value of curiosity, I share with you the words of Albert Einstein (who had Mars in Capricorn):

“The important thing is not to stop questioning. Curiosity has its own reason for existing. One cannot help but be in awe when he contemplates the mysteries of eternity, of life, of the marvelous structure of reality. It is enough if one tries merely to comprehend a little of this mystery every day. Never lose a holy curiosity.”

Wednesday, December 30

While the calendar year may be winding down, that doesn’t necessarily mean that we’re not wound up. The week sandwiched between Christmas and New Year’s Day may be celebratory, but it is oftentimes rife with both activity and emotion. If you’re feeling a little frazzled in your nerves, you’re likely not alone. With a Gemini Moon squaring Uranus coloring the morning and afternoon, it’s a good day to focus on bolstering your nervous system. Go for a walk, take a bath, enjoy a leisurely cup of tea, inhale relaxing essential oils  (lavender, jatamansi, and chamomile are some that come to mind), or partake in whatever ritual you find best lets you release tension and steady into a greater sense of calm.

Thursday, December 31

Not only are we on the brink of a new year and a new decade, but what’s ushering this is in is a Lunar Eclipse.  While eclipses are always powerful, the one that is occurring today has great transformational potential bolstered by its connection to three other planets—Pluto, Saturn, and Venus.

The auspicious timing of this celestial event sets the tone for today truly being a demarcation between the past and the future. Take advantage of the powerful energetic matrix by not only making New Year’s Resolutions, but New Life’s Resolutions. Consider which of your goals, attitudes, beliefs, and habits have run their course, setting intention to release them. While at the same time, envision what structures you can build for the future that will truly nourish who you are and want to unfold into. For more on the Eclipse, including apothecary suggestions, see this post.

Friday, January 1

Happy New Year!

A void-of-course Cancer Moon for half the day (7:43 am – 6:41 pm PST) casts a hazy spell over the day. Yet, it still provide a great opportunity to meditate upon the New Year’s/Life’s Resolution that we made yesterday. While it’s best not to make a commitment when the Moon is VOC–since there’s a tendency for it “not to stick”—it can be a great time for inner reflection that can help fine-tune our perspectives and intentions, which we can put out to the world later this evening or tomorrow when the Moon is firmly rooted in the next sign.

Saturday, January 2

Having pride can be something to be proud of: it can motivate us to greatness, help us maintain self-respect, and serve as a code of honor.

Yet, it may also get in the way of us asking for help when we need it. If we don’t reach out to others, learn to delegate, and/or accept our limits, our efforts may not be as productive or fulfilling as they otherwise could be.

Today’s a good day to reflect upon our pride, and how we can maintain a sense of self-dignity while at the same time being open to accepting the graciousness of receiving assistance from others.

Sunday, January 3

Today have a play date, play a game, read a play, or role play. Infusing our Sunday with imagination, glee, and amusement can play a role in helping us connect to our heart and our ability to express the glory of who we are.

PHOTO © ALEX CARRILLO

December 31, 2009: Capricorn/Cancer Full Moon Lunar Eclipse (exact at 11:13 am PST)

Today’s Full Moon is also a Lunar Eclipse. Even if we can’t see an eclipse in the sky where we live, these celestial events are renowned for being very powerful in the way in which they can impact our lives.

A Full Moon Lunar Eclipse signifies a time when things come to fruition. It portends an auspicious time to let go of something that is outworn, whether it be a possession, a habit, a limiting belief, or a relationship that doesn’t serve your highest good. Additionally, eclipses provide a great opportunity for outward manifestation with life-changing events—sometimes expected, sometimes not—often happening around this time. As it’s also New Years Eve, the ritual of making resolutions for the coming year—what we want to release and what we want to create—may take on special value and import.

Situations that allow us to reflect upon how we contribute to the world–whether through our work, families, communities, or other ways–may arise. Concurrently, during this eclipse, we may gain a greater sense of how we feel about the legacy we are creating and whether it truly aligns with our deepest needs and desires.

We may feel extra sensitive today and experience a heightened need to feel safe, secure, and taken care of. At the same time, we may perceive that this may conflict with a desire to be a bedrock of strength for others. As such, it’s important to remember to own and express our feelings and that stating our needs is not a reflection of weakness but of internal strength.

This month’s Full Moon falls at 11 degrees of Capricorn (Sun) and Cancer (Moon). While everyone experiences the energies of a Full Moon, if you have planets or pivotal points (i.e., Ascendant/Descendant or Nadir/Midheaven) around this degree in Capricorn, Cancer, or the other cardinal signs—Aries and Libra—it may impact you more intensely.

The events or realizations during this time may follow up on a thread that began around the beginning of summer since on July 7 we experienced a Full Moon Lunar Eclipse whose energies complemented this one. Today’s Full Moon features a Capricorn Sun and Cancer Moon while July’s featured a Cancer Sun and Capricorn Moon.

Full Moon Lunar Eclipse Apothecary Suggestions

Capricorn is associated with the skeletal system, joints, and skin while Cancer is associated with the stomach, sinuses, and breasts. Pay extra attention to these parts of the body and areas of health around the time of this Full Moon Lunar Eclipse.

Frankincense: Frankincense is one of the most sacred of scents. Used in temple ceremonies for ages, it can help us to open to the mysteries of life and creative cycles expressed during eclipses.  It is also a great aromatic balm for Capricorn-associated rheumatic pain when applied with a massage oil. Using it in a diffuser, adding some to a mister bottle of water to scent a room, or mixing it with a few drops of plain body oil and applying it as a perfume are some great ways to enjoy it.

Skin scrubs: Reflecting the release-and-growth energy of the Full Moon Lunar Eclipse, skin scrubs can be a wonderful ritual to initiate today. They inspire renewal of the Capricorn-ruled skin, shedding dead skin cells, which allows the skin to better receive moisture. To do so, scrub your body with a sisal or nylon mitt or brush when in the shower. Some people prefer to use a little soap while others like to just use water; see which works better for you. If you’re rather, you could also try using natural sugar- or salt-based exfoliating scrubs, available in natural food stores and holistic pharmacies.

PHOTO © ALEX CARRILLO

Monday, December 21

There’s an aura of stillness that envelops the day. It’s not as if things won’t happen or progress, but just that we may be more readily able to connect to a deep sense of peaceful quietude.

Today the Sun moves into the sign of slow-but-steady Capricorn. It is also the Winter Solstice, a day which often emanates a sense of stillness. The word solstice itself reflects this energetic as it is derived from the Latin sol—meaning Sun—and sistere, meaning to stand still. This is because for a 3-day period as the Sun travels across the Tropic of Capricorn (in Winter Solstice) or Tropic of Cancer (in Summer Solstice), its pattern of movement makes it appear to be at rest.

Some of the stillness may also come from today’s Jupiter/Neptune conjunction. Since Jupiter expands every thing it touches and Neptune inspires a connection with compassion, we may be more readily able to tap into a halcyon space swimming with peaceful equanimity. For more on the Jupiter/Neptune conjunction–including wellness recommendations–see this post.

Happy Solstice

Tuesday, December 22

As you ascend through the tasks of today, bring your imagination into the mix. If you’re looking to solve a problem that’s keeping you from the progress you are seeking, take a moment to step back from the situation and think about it from more right-brained perspective. Don’t judge your thoughts, just let them take sail; a train-of-consciousness brainstorm may very well provide insights that a left-brained rational approach alone may not.

Wednesday, December 23

We often expect ourselves to be consistent and reliable in our feelings. Yet, as we grow and evolve so does the way we emotionally respond to situations with which we are presented. We are reminded of this today.

Therefore, give yourself the space to feel whatever it is that you are feeling. Don’t prejudge what comes up for you as an emotional flight of fancy, or not the “right way” to respond to a situation. Just let yourself be. Reflecting on your feelings later can provide great insight into needs that you may not have even realized you had.

Thursday, December 24

“Twas the night before Christmas, when all through the house, not a creature was stirring, not even a mouse……” begins the treasured poem, A Visit from St. Nicholas. While it’s a classic one to be recited during the holidays, just know that this year’s “night (and day) before Christmas” may not necessarily be as serene as depicted in this poem’s opening lines. In fact, there may be a lot of stirring going on given today’s powerful alignment of the Sun, Moon, Pluto, and Saturn.

The Moon in active self-expressive Aries creates a whirlwind of energy. This desire for movement and action, though, may be met with resistance from a part of us that just wants to maintain a steady pace and even keel. Try to give honor to all aspects of these needs to stem the potential for any impatience and/or irritability that may ensue.

Some of the stirring and restlessness of the day may evolve from the Sun being conjunct Pluto. When transformative Pluto is prominent in the sky or in our personal astrology charts, there’s a tendency to agitate the status quo to try to uncover hidden desires and motivations. While this proverbial stirring the pot can oftentimes be productive, it can also cause unnecessary turmoil. It just depends upon how conscious we are of our actions and intentions.

All this doesn’t mean that today cannot be a gracious and celebratory day. It definitely can be that, and much more. In fact, it can provide a great opportunity for us to forge new attitudes and visions that will allow us to approach our lives in a manner that better serves the essence of who we are.

Friday, December 25

Merry Christmas to all that celebrate this day. Happy holidays and Namaste to all who celebrate another holy day.

Venus moves into Capricorn today, joining the Sun and Mercury in this resourceful and resource-conscious sign. Add in the Sun squaring Saturn— Capricorn’s planetary ruler—and a significant theme of the day is likely to be focusing on “what really matters” with a concurrent impatience for things that seem to waste time, energy, or emotions.

If you’re spending time with family or friends today, be aware of the potential for conflicts between different generations: the source of the strife may be a misunderstanding of intentions and/or a reflection of heightened sensitivity around the holidays. For example, advice given from one family member to another may seen as critical and rebukeful even though the giver intended it to be constructive and empowering. Instead of automatically discounting counsel from others, consider whether there is any nugget of wisdom and value that you can extract from it.

If you are not 100% certain as to the content and context of what someone is sharing, ask for clarification. This is, of course, always important, but is especially so as Mercury is about to go retrograde.

Saturday, December 26

Compared to the past two likely-to-have-been-intense days, today should be more pacific (albeit the potential for communication snafus now that Mercury has gone retrograde). The Moon moves from ready-set-go Aries into take-your-time Taurus in the afternoon. And throughout the whole day the Moon connects gracefully with many other planets—it sextiles Neptune and Jupiter and trines Venus, Pluto, and the Sun.

While the last few days may have involved celebrations, today is a good day to focus on celebrating yourself. A great way to do so is by treating yourself to an activity that incites your senses and helps you connect to your body (which may be crying out for some TLC attention if you indulged in a lot of holiday fare). A walk in the park, a hot bath infused with essential oils, or an at-home facial can be great activities that help you slow down and turn the attention—and intention—to yourself and taking care of your body and soul.

Sunday, December 27

With Venus conjunct Pluto and the Moon square Mars, today passions may escalate and relationships may feel more intense. Ardor abounds, with desire—whether it be sexual or a deep yearning to be truly known by another—the name of the game. At the same time, though, it may seem that what feels nurturing is at odds with what we desire; probing below the surface of that which our heart truly values may help to yield a solution that honors all facets of who we are.

PHOTO © ALEX CARRILLO

December 26-January 15, 2009: Mercury Retrograde

Retrograde periods are times for reflection and heightened inner awareness. Since Mercury symbolizes communication, they way we learn, our siblings, and our neighborhood, this period can yield great insights in related areas of your life. Mercury retrograde lasts about three weeks and occurs three to four times per year; the last one took place September 6-29.

Mercury represents the bridges and channels that allow us to connect varied pieces of information in order to synthesize them into the whole of understanding. During Mercury retrograde periods, the inherent weaknesses of these conduits may be revealed. As such, this period is known for the breakdown of tools that help us to share information (such as phones, computers, and printers) and well as those that assist us as we move from place to place (such as cars, bikes, and buses); therefore, do what you can to make sure they are in good working order. With data and information transfer stressed, it’s a great time to ensure you’re backing up your hard drive, keeping track of whether you’re due for an oil change, or inventorying your supply of extra batteries necessary for the remote or your child’s favorite toy.

Any planetary retrograde reflects a period where the energy is focused more internally. Therefore, it’s a wonderful time to turn communication inward to seek insights and understanding. Meditation, journaling, and nondominant handwriting are great activities to do during Mercury retrograde to help you find the pieces of the puzzle and the teachings of wisdom that you seek.

While inner reflection is heightened, external communication may be stressed. Therefore, try to avoid misunderstandings by being extra diligent about the words you use, while also making sure to listen even more attentively than usual. Whether it be with writing or speaking, put a little extra effort into dotting your I’s and crossing your T’s. Be especially aware of this if you have to sign any binding contract during Mercury retrograde (putting off doing so if possible), as oftentimes all of the information you need to make a decision isn’t available or especially clear.

When you think of how to approach this period, just remember the first two letters of the word retrograde—“re”—and apply it to the activities you undertake. As such, Mercury retrograde periods are a great time to reassess, review, reanalyze, revisit, rethink, re-edit, and recommunicate.

During this retrograde period, Mercury travels from 22 degrees to 5 degrees Capricorn. While everyone experiences the energies of Mercury retrograde, if you have planets or pivotal points (i.e., Ascendant/Descendant or Nadir/Midheaven) around or aspecting these degrees, it may impact you more intensely.

Mercury Retrograde Apothecary Suggestions

Nondominant handwriting: This exercise is easy to do and takes minimal time commitment. Just think of a question to which you seek an answer, something that you’ve been pondering. Then pick up a pen or pencil and place it in your nondominant hand (the left one for righties, and the right one for lefties) and write out the answer on paper. Write freely and don’t judge what may seem like chicken scratch. The beauty of this exercise is that by using our opposite hand we are able to able to access more of our subsconcious mind and tap into our intuitive knowingness. What you compose on the paper should provide you with an insightful perspective on your question.

“Spring cleaning”: Mercury retrograde is a great time to literally clean your closets. That’s because our abilities to reassess, reevaluate, and reconsider are heightened. Cleaning closets can be wonderfully therapeutic: It provides a trip down memory lane and it also helps to unburden ourselves of things that no longer best serve us. If your closets don’t need to be cleaned, consider organizing your desk drawers or pantry shelves.

PHOTO © ALEX CARRILLO

Monday, December 14

Happy Monday!

We often consider Mondays to be a somewhat reliable day. The weekend is over, it’s the first day of the workweek for many, the kids are ushered off to school, refreshed from a two-day respite. We intention to pick up where we left off days ago.

Yet, today, keep an open mind that this Monday may not be a “typical” one and that things may not proceed as you might have anticipated.  With the Sun square expect-the-unexpected Uranus, there may be unforeseen twists and turns that occur today. This isn’t bad, mind you. Uranus infuses us with experiences of surprise as a means to help us break out of rote and rigid ways of being. If you can greet this day with a “you never know what may happen” perspective, then you can adapt a flexibility that infuse you with an aikido-like approach to what unfolds. Reflecting upon insights gleaned because you or another acted “out of the ordinary” may serve to shine a light on undervalued desires and goals that you have, those that may need more attention.

As Uranus also carries with it heightened activity and transmission of energy/information, today we may feel more nervous or edgy than usual. If this is case, ensure that you take care of yourself. A mid-day stroll, a cup of calming chamomile tea, or a few whiffs of lavender essential oil are some of the things that are helpful in keeping us more relaxed and centered.

Tuesday, December 15

The waning lunar cycle—that which occurs from the Full to New Moon—represents a great time to become unfettered from any beliefs, habits, or things that hold us back from planting new seeds for growth (which is most auspicious to be done at during the Moon’s waxing cycle). As we wind down to tomorrow morning’s New Moon, consider releasing–or making plans to release–what may be cluttering your life, getting in your way of being more free to pursue your hopes, wishes, and ideals. As the Moon conjuncts Venus today, we are given a boost that helps us to more clearly see what we value and what holds import—just look to see those things and/or people you feel a sense of simpatico with.

Wednesday, December 16

Today is the New Moon. Yet not just any old New Moon.

It’s quite an active one. And sure to be a day to remember. While it may or may not seem remarkable in the moment, when we look back to mid-December 2009, we may see that shifts occurred in our lives that guided them onto a new route.

What’s making this New Moon so special? It strongly connects to four powerful energies, that of:

• I-didn’t-see-that-coming Uranus
• Dig-deep-to-connect-with-your-deep-power Pluto
• Make-it-real Saturn
• And the source-of-evolutionary-intelligence Galactic Core.

Since the New Moon is an auspicious time to plant seeds for new growth, take a moment (or more) to consider what it is that you want to create in your life that will make your future more joyous and meaningful.

For more on the New Moon including apothecary suggestions, see this post.

Thursday, December 17

Today’s Astrological Haiku

Today Venus/Mars
Align, hold hands, and cuddle,
Kiss, kiss and hug, hug.

Anima/Animus
Synched. We want, we love, we quest.
Desire’s on our side.

Still knowing, though, all’s
Not easy-breezy. What lasts
Takes work and patience.

Wise words from today’s
Capricorn Moon, which teaches us
Valuable lessons:

Commitment is king
Practicality is queen
And loyalty reigns.

Friday, December 18

On the surface, subsequent signs—like Sagittarius (where the Sun is placed today) and Capricorn (where the Moon is placed today) are often thought to not hold much commonality. Yet, shared ground can be found.

Both Sagittarius and Capricorn engage in a journey. Sagittarius’ journey is an upbeat one filled with hope and vision, propelled by a desire to enhance understanding. Capricorn’s journey is a deliberate voyage featuring hard work and perseverance as one climbs the mountain in the quest for achievement. Today, if you go after a goal, use these radiating astrological energies and undertake your mission with an approach that encompasses both deliberate practicality and a joie de vivre spirit.

Saturday, December 19

There’s an aura of unpredictability in the air today. With love-is-the-answer Venus in a tense relationship with it’s-not-what-you-expect Uranus, and Mars, the planet representing action, about to go retrograde, caprice and whimsy may be the name of the game today.

Yet, what may appear as erratic and chaotic may actually be able to be understood to have sense if we look at it with an open mind and from a larger perspective. The Moon in Aquarius can help us do just that, allowing us to enjoy a sense of detachment and birds-eye view that help us see how unexpected manifestations can actually be great carriers of wisdom and understanding.

Sunday, December 20

Today’s not your average Sunday. No, not just because it’s the birthday of Uri Geller—the spoon-bending paranormal performer. Nor because it’s the Sunday before Christmas, inspiring a paranormal swirl of holiday festivities and shopping.

Rather, it’s because today we embark on two pivotal energetic shifts. Mars, the planet of action, goes retrograde, a position it will retain until March 10, 2010. And we are also swimming in the glow of tomorrow’s Jupiter/Neptune conjunction.

How this manifests will, of course, range. We may find ourselves—and others—to be a bit irritable or potentially a little spaced out. Yet, there’s a desire to dream the impossible dream and if we use a compassionate means of going about getting it, that dream may in fact become a reality.

A caveat post script: If you’re indulging in holiday food or drink, be careful not to go overboard. The Jupiter/Neptune alignment may enhance our sensitivity to alcohol or sugar, which can ramp up feelings of Mars-in-Leo-retrograde irascibility.

Have you felt the stirrings of Uranus since it went direct on December 1 inspiring you to make changes in your life?

I certainly have. There are some that I have already implemented—for instance, enjoying a cup of ginger tea first thing in the morning—that have shifted the course of my day in a very enriching way. There are other changes, larger ones, that I am now pondering, those that may help align my life more closely to my heart’s intentions.

Reflecting this Uranian-inspired change, I’ve decided to try a new approach on Planetary Apothecary. When Uranus stationed retrograde this summer, I initiated the Astrological Insights, which I first posted to the Planetary Apothecary Facebook page and then later to the blog. Writing these has become a great source of fulfillment, reward, and creativity for me. And given the feedback I have received, it seems that you and other Readers find them enjoyable and beneficial.

Last week I had a Uranian “Aha!” moment regarding Planetary Apothecary: while it’s nice to post something each day, I realized that if I were to provide a week’s worth of Astrological Insights, it may be of greater service since you could have them days in advance if you wanted to use them as a means to reflect upon the upcoming week. Therefore, beginning today, I am going to compile 7 days of Astrological Insights into a once-weekly post, which will appear each Sunday (here’s a link to this week’s so you can see what it will look like).

I hope that this change serves you well. If you have any feedback on it, would like to offer suggestions on how this blog can better serve you, or want to share how Uranus going direct has inspired changes in your life, don’t hesitate to write me at stephanieATplanetaryapothecary.com or offer your thoughts in the Comments section.

Namaste.

PHOTO © ALEX CARRILLO

December 21, 2009: Jupiter Conjunct Neptune

This is the third of the three cosmological meetings this year of the planets Jupiter and Neptune (the first occurred on May 27, the second on July 10). It’s a day that may feel dreamy but one that will remind you that your dreams can become reality. As today is also the Solstice, there’s a profound sense of connecting to a deep power within us, from which our creativity can flow forth.

What happens when hopeful and visionary Jupiter dances in the sky with imaginative and spiritually inclined Neptune? You may feel captured by a sense of romanticism that infuses even the most mundane with a sense of poetics. You may find yourself drawn to music, color, and images—rather than solely to words—when expressing your thoughts and feelings. You may experience especially vivid dreams, as your subconscious mind more strongly pierces the veil of your conscious mind during sleep.

Yet, take heed: Jupiter conjunct Neptune can usher in the trio of “-sion”s: confusion, delusion, and illusion. Due diligence is even more important during this time so that you can best tune into the “reality” of what is occurring.

However the Jupiter/Neptune conjunction individually manifests for you, one thing is for sure: both these planets carry an “up, up, and away” energy and so it’s important to stay open to their inspiration but grounded at the same time.

Jupiter Conjunct Neptune Apothecary Suggestions

Walk and soak: Tune into your body and ensure your feet are planted firmly on the earth. One way to do so would be to start your day with a brisk walk. Afterwards, soak your feet in a warm salt-water tub infused with your favorite essential oil while you meditate on your goals for the day and dreams for your life.

Holy basil: Also known as tulsi, holy basil makes a delicious non-caffeinated “tea” that provides a meditative sense of centering while at the same time boosting the immune system and helping the body guard against stress. Holy basil is delicious hot or prepared as iced tea. Holy basil is also available as an essential oil to be used in aromatherapeutic applications.

December 20, 2009-March 10, 2010: Mars Retrograde

Mars goes retrograde on December 20, a position it will retain until March 10, 2010. When a planet is retrograde the energy it represents is more internally focused than externally expressed.

Astrologically, Mars is the warrior planet that represents action, will, and determination. If we want to get or achieve something, Mars is the chariot that can help us to realize this accomplishment. During this retrograde period, Mars will travel from 20 degrees of Leo to 0 degrees of Leo.

When Mars is retrograde, we can take the opportunity to reflect upon how we use our will. Does the way we set about getting things done truly help us meet our aims? Is our mode of pursuing our goals the most efficient and effective? Is the manner in which we express our passions and desires in sync with our heart’s intentions? These are appropriate questions to ask during this period.

What is also appropriate—and very important—is to find productive outlets for any anger you may feel. Given that energy is turned inward during a retrograde period, this may lead to a stifling of the expression of Mars—our anger and/or passion–which itself can lead to feelings of depression. So, make sure to find ways for moving fiery martial energy though; exercise—including the martial arts actually—can be great vehicles for this. This is important not only from an emotional wellness, but also physical health, perspective. In medical astrology, Mars is related to circulation, and Leo–the sign in which this planet currently resides–is associated with the heart. Therefore, especially for those with cardiovascular system concerns, finding healthful ways to express feelings and frustrations can be a key step in promoting well-being.

Mars Retrograde Apothecary Suggestions

Vetiver: Vetiver essential oil helps to calm pitta, dispelling the excess Martian heat and inflammatory energy associated with this Ayurvedic dosha. In addition to its calming and grounding effects, vetiver is rejuvenating for the skin. Mix a few drops with some unscented massage oil for an all-over restorative experience. Or, carry a vial of vetiver with you, inhaling its fragrance whenever you need to relax and restore your grounded focus. As with all essential oils, it’s best to purchase vetiver from a high-quality, reputable manufacturer.

Scarlet Monkeyflower flower essence: If we don’t want to express our anger, oftentimes we think that by just ignoring or repressing it, the feelings will go away. Yet, that’s not usually the case; rather, they just churn within until, at some moment, they either seep out or we reach a full fledged emotional explosion. If you want help accepting and embracing feelings of anger, as well as compassionate assistance to courageously communicate how you feel, Scarlet Monkeyflower flower essence may be of great value. (Flower essences are made from flower-infused water and work energetically to restore emotional and mental balance. You can find them in natural food stores or holistic pharmacies.)

PHOTO © ALEX CARRILLO

December 16, 2009: Sagittarius New Moon (exact at 4:02 am PST)

New Moons yield beginnings with this one signaling an auspicious time to undertake a new project that can help us to forge a greater understanding of the world around us. Expanding our horizons to embrace a different philosophical perspective—even just trying it on for size temporarily—can be incredibly valuable and uplifting.

We may find ourselves starting many sentences with the word Why. These may be questions that help us seek understanding or declarative statements with which we share our knowledgeable perspective with others. Relatedly, it’s a good time to give homage to those who have been our teachers or guides, who have lit the path for us so that we can travel it with more enlightenment. From this reflection we may also gain unexpected insights into how we have served as preceptors for others.

We may feel ignited with a sense of hopefulness and that anything is possible. While this exuberance can propel us on our journeys, it’s important to also survey the landscapes through which we may be traveling for a proactive analysis of the inherent limitations and restrictions that they may contain. As Uranus is connected with this New Moon, the unexpected still may occur but at least a sense of cautious optimism can better safeguard us from injuries—whether physically, to our emotions, or to our pride—that an unbridled or quixotic approach may not.

This month’s New Moon falls at 25 degrees of Sagittarius (Sun and Moon). While everyone experiences the energies of a New Moon, if you have planets or pivotal points (i.e., Ascendant/Descendant or Nadir/Midheaven) around this degree in Sagittarius or the other mutable signs—Gemini, Virgo, and Pisces—it may impact you more intensely.

New Moon Apothecary Suggestions

Sagittarius is associated with the liver, hips, buttocks, thighs, and sciatic nerve. Pay attention to these parts of the body and areas of health around the time of this New Moon.

Liver-supporting foods: As Sagittarius is the sign related to the liver, focusing on this important organ—vital for detoxification—is a great thing to do around the time of this New Moon. As New Moons signify beginnings, consider making changes in your diet today that will be of benefit in the future. Some liver-supporting foods to add include the Brassica vegetables (broccoli, cauliflower, cabbage, kale, et al.), which feature sulfur-containing phytonutrients that ramp up detoxification enzymes. Also, limiting the amount of alcohol and additive-containing processed foods can be a boon for hepatic health as can incorporating more organic foods since these don’t contain the liver-challenging chemical residues that conventionally raised foods do.

Warrior II Yoga Pose: Even if you don’t do yoga, Warrior II is a great pose to practice today. It helps us to connect with the visionary spirit of the Sagittarian Archer who is looking into the future, visualizing goals that lie ahead right over the horizon. Plus, it helps to stretch and strengthen the Sagittarian-ruled muscles of the hips, thighs, and buttocks. For instructions on the Warrior II pose, see here.

Happy Monday!

We often consider Mondays to be a somewhat reliable day. The weekend is over, it’s the first day of the workweek for many, the kids are ushered off to school, refreshed from a two-day respite. We intention to pick up where we left off days ago.

Yet, today, keep an open mind that this Monday may not be a “typical” one and that things may not proceed as you might have anticipated.  With the Sun square expect-the-unexpected Uranus, there may be unforeseen twists and turns that occur today. This isn’t bad, mind you. Uranus infuses us with experiences of surprise as a means to help us break out of  rote and rigid ways of being. If you can greet this day with a “you never know what may happen” perspective, then you can adapt a flexibility that infuse you with an aikido-like approach to what unfolds. Reflecting upon insights gleaned because you or another acted “out of the ordinary” may serve to shine a light on undervalued desires and goals that you have, those that may need more attention.

As Uranus also carries with it heightened activity and transmission of energy/information, today we may feel more nervous or edgy than usual. If this is case, ensure that you take care of yourself. A mid-day stroll, a cup of calming chamomile tea, or a few whiffs of lavender essential oil are some of the things that are helpful in keeping us more relaxed and centered.