Often we feel certain about our desires – it is X that contributes to our lust for life while Y doesn’t really do it for us. And then every now and again we are surprised when we see that in fact our desires may include something different than we had defined. The beginning of the week may very well be such a time. As such, be open to surprises in the tenor of your yearnings. With that you may also see a yet-to-be-discovered new approach, a new way forward–a  new path to moving towards a goal.

As the week progresses there’s a bustling sense of possibility. The Sun unites with Jupiter on Wednesday and with that the air may seem filled with opportunities, learnings, and quests for meaning. Both are in Gemini, a sign focused upon building bridges and disseminating information, arenas that may seem amped up this week.

With heightened mental activity streaming about, just watch that your personal circuits don’t get overwhelmed. Be proactive about keeping your nervous system fortified and practice your relaxation rituals to stay ahead of the potential stress curve. In addition to the nervous system, Gemini rules the lungs as well as shoulders, arms, and hands–pay extra attention to these areas of the body this week so that a sense of Jupiterian “Anything is possible” doesn’t lead to overextension, having these areas taking the brunt.

The Solstice arrives late Thursday, with the Sun joining Mercury and Venus in fluctuating and sensitive Cancer,  where it will be for the next month. Speaking of Mercury and Venus, they come together on Thursday. With that we could find ourselves more readily able to tap into the words that describe our feelings about what it is that we truly value. Being able to express our feelings about our mother–and/or our sense of mothering–our family and/or tribe may also seem more heightened.

As the week end’s turns to the weekend, the Sagittarius Moon has us continuing on a quest towards understanding. Why? What does it mean? Where do I want to go? are questions that may arise.

Yet, the mood may not be completely unbridled with an unrestrained sense of freedom. After all, the Capricorn Full Moon illuminates the sky early Sunday. Reflections on duty and obligation, feelings and responsibility, our heritage and our future may be on our radar, with making a space for all at the proverbial table a potential challenge…and also an opportunity for growth. Creating a structure that honors nurturing, doing work that stems from a sense of what feels right, and galvanizing a deep-seated will to protect what we feel is vital to the enduring joy of those we love–these may be some of what the Capricorn Full Moon inspires in us.

Also note that we are in the shadow period of Mercury retrograde, with the messenger planet turn shift directions on June 26. As such, be extra attentive to communications and transport. Be clear about what you want to express, listen without pre-judging, and attend to any maintenance that your car, bike, motorcycle (or skateboard, scooter et al.) may need.

Astro-Atlas*
June 17, 8:20 am: Mars (Gemini) sextile Uranus (Aries)
June 17, 1:39 pm: Moon (Libra) square Pluto (Capricorn)
June 17, 4:23 pm: Moon (Libra) opposite Uranus (Aries)
June 17, 4:49 pm: Moon (Libra) trine Mars (Gemini)

June 18, 4:05 am: Moon (Libra) square Venus (Cancer)
June 18, 7:34 am: Moon (Libra) square Mercury (Cancer)
June 18, 8:14 pm: Moon (Libra) trine Sun (Gemini)
June 18, 8:55 pm: Moon (Libra) trine Jupiter (Gemini)
June 18, 8:55 pm: Moon void-of-course
June 18, 11:39 pm: Moon enters Scorpio

June 19, 8:20 am: Moon (Scorpio) conjunct Saturn (Scorpio)
June 19, 8:44 am: Moon (Scorpio) trine Neptune (Pisces)
June 19, 9:11 am: Sun (Gemini) conjunct Jupiter (Gemini)
June 19, 5:36 pm: Moon (Scorpio) sextile Pluto (Capricorn)

June 20, 11:49 am: Moon (Scorpio) trine Venus (Cancer)
June 20, 12:16 pm: Moon (Scorpio) trine Mercury (Cancer)
June 20, 12:16 pm: Moon void-of-course
June 20, 7:57 pm: Mercury (Cancer) conjunct Venus (Cancer
June 20, 10:04 pm: Sun enters Cancer

June 21, 1:31 am: Moon enters Sagittarius
June 21, 10:05 am: Moon (Sagittarius) square Neptune
June 21, 9:09 pm: Moon (Sagittarius) trine Uranus (Aries)

June 22, 2:14 am: Moon (Sagittarius) opposite Mars (Gemini)

June 23, 12:09 am: Moon (Sagittarius) opposite Jupiter (Gemini)
June 23, 12:09 am: Moon void-of-course
June 23, 1:08 am: Moon enters Capricorn
June 23, 4:32 am: Full Moon [Moon (Capricorn) opposite Sun (Cancer)]
June 23, 8:58 am: Moon (Capricorn) sextile Saturn (Scorpio)
June 23, 9:28 am: Moon (Capricorn) sextile Neptune (Pisces)
June 23, 5:36 pm: Moon (Capricorn) conjunct Pluto (Capricorn)
June 23, 8:27 pm: Moon (Capricorn) square Uranus (Aries)

* all time are Pacific Daylight Time (GMT – 7:00)

I’m now Instagramming astrological and wellness insights via images at Planetary_Apothecary. If you’re on Instagram, join me there.

Through the power of the image, I’m hoping to create a repository where you can access a deeper level of understanding as to what the astrological alignments and archetypes convey. I’ll post photos that reflect current planetary connections (e.g., images that reflect the Saturn/Neptune trine or the Uranus/Pluto square) as well as those that reveal facets of zodiac signs and planetary archetypes that may be present in your chart (e.g., a photo that captures Mars in Pisces or Venus in Virgo).

Looking forward to seeing you there!

As the week begins we could perceive the mood to be especially moody. With the Moon in Cancer on Monday tying into the Uranus/Pluto square, it’s important to remember that feeling our feelings, no matter how intense, is often the more peaceful route in the long-term than what we feel by stifling them in the moment. Approaching them with curiosity and wonder, exploring the wealth of our emotional expression, may deliver a sense of beauty that comes from feeling authentic.

This may be especially true as related to feelings that arise in the realm of our relationships, finances, and/or creative expression. That’s because love planet Venus also ties into the Uranus/Pluto square early this week. It may seem like a Sisyphean task to continue to keep secrets at bay. Although the revealing of hidden emotions, experiences, or perspectives may have shock value, it can be an important step in clearing away stickiness that can keep us from feeling we are on solid ground. Honesty may hurt but at least it’s an access point to being able to carve our lives from a place of truth and reality.

Given Saturn’s trine to Neptune on Tuesday, we’re also reminded this week that hard work and imagination can make amazing partners. While each can operate on their own, their coalescence can be magical and help to make dreams reality. Let your creative and compassionate spirit guide your practical efforts and apply some elbow grease to ideas inspired by a desire to forge greater connectedness with your self, others, and/or your spiritual reservoir. {Note that this is the second of three exact trines between structured Saturn and poetic Neptune in their current series of alignment; the first occurred on October 10, 2012 while the next will be on July 19.}

Add the Moon in Leo to the mix of prominent Venus and Saturn/Neptune energetics and you’ve got two days where art and creative expression may feel exceptionally fulfilling. These are days where being in our hearts, and radiating love, can feel really good.

The Virgo Moon on Friday, Saturday and Sunday has us once again looking at the pieces, as we try to forge an understanding of how things fit together. Refinement, efficiency, and effectiveness are themes. Yet, the Virgo Moon may also rile up our critical side if we feel disappointed that things or people aren’t as we perceive they can be. Given that it’s Father’s Day on Sunday, just watch that a sense of hyper-criticality doesn’t overshadow a day where you do want to honor your Dad in some way, regardless of your current relationship and whether or not he is still physically present in your life.

Another energetic that colors the end of the week is Mars making a tricky quincunx to Pluto on Saturday. Watch for a sense of frustration caused by power struggles. If you feel that you can’t push ahead with a deeply motivated action right now, consider putting it off. This can help to reduce a sense of impotence or the consequences that occur from acting from a place of compulsion.

Astro-Atlas*
June 10, 3:28 am: Moon (Cancer) conjunct Venus (Cancer)
June 10, 7:12 am: Moon (Cancer) opposite Pluto (Capricorn)
June 10, 9:33 am: Moon (Cancer) square Uranus (Aries)
June 10, 2:15 pm: Moon (Cancer) conjunct Mercury (Cancer)
June 10, 2:15 pm: Moon void-of-course

June 11, 3:06 pm: Venus (Cancer) opposite Pluto (Capricorn)
June 11, 4:18 pm: Saturn (Scorpio) trine Neptune (Pisces)
June 11, 9:58 pm: Moon enters Leo

June 12, 8:41 am: Moon (Leo) square Saturn (Scorpio)
June 12, 3:44 pm: Moon (Leo) sextile Mars (Gemini)
June 12, 3:49 pm: Venus (Cancer) square Uranus (Aries)
June 12, 10:04 pm: Moon (Leo) trine Uranus (Aries)

June 13, 8:13 pm: Moon (Leo) sextile Sun (Gemini)

June 14, 4:14 am: Moon (Leo) sextile Jupiter (Gemini)
June 14, 4:14 am: Moon void-of-course
June 14, 9:26 am: Moon enters Virgo
June 14, 7:36 pm: Moon (Virgo) sextile Saturn (Scorpio)
June 14, 7:49 pm: Moon (Virgo) opposite Neptune (Pisces)

June 15, 5:46 am: Mars (Gemini) quincunx Pluto (Capricorn)
June 15, 6:04 am: Moon (Virgo) square Mars (Gemini)
June 15, 6:04 am: Moon (Virgo) trine Pluto (Capricorn)
June 15, 3:34 pm: Moon (Virgo) sextile Venus (Cancer)
June 15, 10:06 pm: Moon (Virgo) sextile Mercury (Cancer)

June 16, 10:24 am: Moon (Virgo) square Sun (Gemini)
June 16, 2:26 pm: Moon (Virgo) square Jupiter (Gemini)
June 16, 2:26 pm: Moon void-of-course
June 16, 6:19 pm: Moon enters Libra

* all time are Pacific Daylight Time (GMT – 7:00)

If you’re in the Seattle area on June 27, please join me to usher summer at the upcoming Astro-Wellness Salon.

In this gathering, we’ll discuss the energetics of the upcoming Cancer, Leo, and Virgo seasons. We’ll talk about how Jupiter shifting into Cancer for its one-year voyage in the sign of the home, family, and the past may impact us personally and collectively. Additionally, we’ll explore the beautiful dance of Jupiter, Saturn, and Neptune and how mid-July may be a pivotal time for making your dreams come true. Our conversations with uncover what inspirations may be catalyzed as well as helpful self-care suggestions for moving through their challenges.

Each participant will receive a packet of personalized astrological insights designed based upon their birth chart. Salon limited to 8 attendees so RSVP early if you’d like a spot. Prosecco and other beverages will be served.

When: June 27, 6:30 pm

Where: Capitol Hill area (you’ll receive details after registering)

Cost: $30 by June 14; $35 after (fee can be applied as a credit towards a personal astrology consultation, within three months). To register, write me here.

We experience the first of this celestial interplay on Monday as messenger Mercury graciously connects to both Saturn and Neptune. Conversations may flow to the subject of what is really real. There’s a chance to get a glimpse into another way of constructing something, as if an angel whispered in your ear, sweetly suggesting a more passive, yet productive, approach. We could find our minds to be more receptive to different realms of information, veering towards expressing ourselves in ways that seem calmer and smoother. Roundness and circles may be themes, figures to which we feel more attracted, and which bring us mental and intellectual delight.

What’s also notable about the beginning of the week is that Saturn passes through the degree that the Moon was in on the Lunar Eclipse of 25 April. It will be interesting to see if we find that realizations/manifestations that occurred on/near that time seem to have more structure, are put to the test, and/or feel more real.

With the Moon shifting into Taurus on Tuesday, we can connect to a bedrock of earth energy. There’s a pull towards slowing down and being practical that continues through Thursday. It’s a great time to indulge in some quiet time as well as sensual delights. Take the time to get grounded, whatever that looks like for you.

That’s not to say that mid-week is all about passivity. On Wednesday, active Mars passes through the degree that the Sun was at during the Lunar Eclipse on 24 May. It will be interesting to see whether what came to light then get re-energized and/or becomes something you feel called to fight for.

Saturday features the Gemini New Moon, a time for new beginnings in our approach to learning and expanding our mind. Read more about it in my New Moon post here.

But lest I get ahead of myself and forget about Friday, a day itself that may feature some themes of forgetfulness given that Neptune stations retrograde. And with that, Neptunian themes–glamour, illusion, compassion, unconditional love, dreams, spiritual pursuits, all-is-one, photography, the imaginal realm–may seem more commonplace. That said, I wouldn’t be surprised if our physical energy levels feel more dissipated and our proprioception a little bit off. It’s one of those days where people’s heads may be especially in the clouds so pay extra attention when walking or driving about.

On this day of strong Neptune, it’s Venus’ turn to connect harmoniously to it and Saturn (like Mercury did on Monday). Relationships will likely be center stage as will a focus on values, money, and what it is that we find pleasurable. Perhaps we notice a possible dissolving of a feeling of magnetization we felt to someone or something, and yet within this dissolution we find more solidity. The releasing of some egoic attachments may have us concretize a more powerful and real experience of love.

Through this, speaking truth (whether just to oneself, or also to others) feels really important. After all, Mercury is tying into the Uranus/Pluto square.

Meanwhile, all the while the Moon is balsamic on Friday, as we prepare for the Gemini New Moon on Saturday. Letting go really seems important. What do you need to give up to really be in love, to be love, to let love stream through you?

This question may feel really palpable the end of the week. And yet it’s presence isn’t fleeting; rather this inquiry will likely be a streaming theme through the coming months, serving as an important defining principle of the Saturn/Neptune dance.

Astro-Atlas*
3 June, 12:18 pm: Mercury (Cancer) trine Neptune (Pisces)
3 June, 6:23 pm: Mercury (Cancer) trine Saturn (Pisces
3 June, 11:09 pm: Moon (Aries) sextile Jupiter (Gemini)
3 June, 11:09 pm: Moon void-of-course

4 June, 8:53 am: Moon enter Taurus
4 June, 1:04 pm: Moon (Taurus) sextile Venus (Cancer)
4 June, 7:26 pm: Moon (Taurus) sextile Neptune (Pisces)
4 June, 8:03 pm: Moon (Taurus) opposite Saturn (Scorpio)
4 June, 11:30 pm: Moon (Taurus) sextile Mercury (Cancer)

5 June, 6:25 am: Moon (Taurus) trine Pluto (Capricorn)
5 June, 6:25 am: Moon void-of-course

6 June, 8:32 pm: Moon enters Gemini

7 June, 1:26 am: Neptune stations retrograde
7 June, 4:46 am: Venus (Cancer) trine Neptune (Pisces)
7 June, 6:45 am: Moon (Gemini) conjunct Mars (Gemini)
7 June, 7:22 am: Moon (Gemini) square Neptune (Pisces)
7 June, 8:23 am: Venus (Cancer) trine Saturn (Scorpio)
7 June, 3:01 pm: Mercury (Cancer) opposite Pluto (Capricorn)
7 June, 4:58 pm: Mars (Gemini) square Neptune (Pisces)
7 June, 8:33 pm: Moon (Gemini) sextile Uranus (Aries)

8 June, 8:56 am: New Moon [Sun (Gemini) conjunct Moon (Gemini)]
8 June, 11:47 am: Mercury (Cancer) square Uranus (Aries)

9 June, 1:29 am: Moon (Gemini) conjunct Jupiter (Gemini)
9 June, 1:29 am: Moon void-of-course
9 June, 9:16 am: Moon enters Cancer
9 June, 8:10 pm: Moon (Cancer) trine Neptune (Pisces)
9 June, 8:19 pm: Moon (Cancer) trine Saturn (Scorpio)

* all time are Pacific Daylight Time (GMT – 7:00)

June 8, 2013: Gemini New Moon (exact at 8:56 am PDT)

Curiosity and wonder fill the air on the day of the Gemini Moon. It’s a day when learning and collecting information feels nurturing. And yet, in that pursuit it can seem as if your attention is pulled in a spectrum of directions, since there’s a heightened sense of “interesting” to the facts and figures we come across.

Like other New Moons, it’s a good day to set a goal for the coming four weeks, and given the presence of Gemini energy, it’s an auspicious time to begin gathering the information we’ll need to set this mission in motion. The mercurial and seemingly fickle energy of Gemini is often on display during this New Moon period, amping up agitation and nervous energy. Be patient with yourself if you find it more difficult to make decisions while also making space for others if they seem to be more capricious than normal.

If you’re finding yourself indecisive, consider whether it’s because you are more clearly seeing the two sides of the proverbial coin and the fact that both of them have grace and value. Reflect upon whether it really is even necessary to choose between them; potentially you can create a structure where you are able to enjoy both paths.

It’s important to note that it’s not necessarily a skimming the surface kind of day. After all, messenger Gemini’s ruler, Mercury, is connecting into the Uranus/Pluto square. There could be an urge to stay safe with communications and yet that approach may, ironically, make one feel more vulnerable. If you’re feeling so called, mine your mind of its full spectrum of thoughts and probe deeper in dialogues you have with others. Doing so may seem out of character, and yet it’s a day to perhaps try a new on a new character.

This month’s New Moon falls at 19 degrees of Gemini (Sun and Moon). While everyone experiences the energies of the New Moon, if you have planets or pivotal points (i.e., Ascendant/Descendant or Nadir/Midheaven) around this degree in Gemini or the other mutable signs—Virgo, Sagittarius, Pisces—it may impact you more intensely.

New Moon Apothecary Suggestions

Gemini rules the shoulders, arms, hands, lungs, and nervous system. Pay extra attention to these parts of the body around the time of this New Moon.

Nadi Sodhana (Alternate Nostril Breathing): With Gemini ruling the lungs and the nervous system, doing some pranayama breathing exercises like Nadi Sodhana can be beneficial if you need to calm a flurry of nervous energy. Sit in a comfortable position either on the floor or on a chair. Rest your left hand on your lap. Raise your right hand towards your nose, closing your right nostril by gently pushing your thumb against it. Inhale through your left nostril for four counts. Then release your thumb while closing your left nostril with your ring finger. Exhale through your right nostril for four counts and then inhale for four counts. Release hold on left nostril while closing right nostril with your thumb. Exhale through left nostril for four counts. Continue for twelve rounds or more.

Cerato flower essence: During the Gemini Moon there is an emphasis on the dissemination of information and it becomes tempting to seek advice and input from lots of people who are more than willing to share their thoughts and ideas. While this can be helpful, if you are unclear as to where you stand on an issue, it can cause any decision you need to make even more confusing. If you are looking for a natural remedy that can help inspire your confidence that intuitive knowingness truly resides within you, consider Cerato flower essence. (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.)

The week begins with the monthly Capricorn Moon connecting into the Uranus/Pluto square. We’re focused upon building structures and yet not any old structure will do. We’re feeling pulled towards the need to break down those that aren’t sustainable; we may even be surprised by how we find ourselves keeping on keeping on until a moment arrives and then all of a sudden we find this deep-seated urge to shift things up…right then, right there. There’s a pull towards responsibility, having the ability to respond, in a way that is replete with integrity, as if there really is no other choice.

At once we’re pulled to focus, and yet with Jupiter uniting with both Mercury and Venus in Gemini early in the week, we also may find ourselves connecting to a butterfly energy of wanting to shimmy here, there, and everywhere. As such, watch for the potential for nervous agitation. Have your Rescue Remedy or other relaxing self-care regimens/elixirs handy.

The Jupiter/Mercury/Venus union can encourage a greater expression of both thoughts and values. Our understanding may expand, including our comprehension of just what it is that we cherish. In this, though, we could find that our love is not just of one thing, but of many. The multitudes offer enjoyment, variety a way to express the prismatic facets of our deep and rich values.

Yet, just watch the tendency towards overstatements. We could find ourselves or others being swept away by superlatives. Be on the look out for inclinations towards declarations of “the greatest” or “the most” or any “–est.” That’s not to say to not feel a sense of fullness but just be aware that the elevation to something at the pinnacle of the pantheon may be a passing feeling.

From mid-Tuesday to mid-Thursday when the Moon is in Aquarius, we get the opportunity to pull back a bit. Our concern expands to a more humanistic level. Detachment allows for an equanimity that yields a new level of understanding.

Thursday may feature an interesting juxtaposition of energetic factors. With both Mercury and Mars about to shift into Cancer and Gemini, respectively, on Friday, Thursday finds them finishing up their sweep of the preceding signs. Mercury at the end of Gemini may have it seem that the volume of our mental orientation is turned up high on Thursday; the day may end up having more dialogues and communications than you had anticipated. While this may engender a sense of intellectual flexibility, with Mars at the very end of Taurus, we could find ourselves not really wanting to move fast. There’s a sense of wanting to pursue practically and potentially holding onto positions, just for holding on’s sake. Be highly aware so you can discern whether your actions are being sourced from pragmatism or stubbornness.

The shift of Mercury into Cancer on Friday begins a ten-week period of the messenger planet being in the sign of family, home, and the past (this extended residence of Mercury in Cancer is because it goes retrograde in this sign on June 26). We’re going to have a lot of practice when it comes to infusing our communications and thinking with a feelings-oriented perspective.

Mars will be in Gemini through mid-July. During this time we may find ourselves learning the connection between right thinking and right action. We’re pulled more towards rationalizing before taking movement; we’ll need to watch, though, when that’s to our advantage and when it is not.

We float into the end of the week with the Moon in Pisces. Friday and Saturday are lovely days for artistic pursuits, service work, and sending out rays of unconditional love. And even if that’s not your natural inclination, try some of it on for size. After all, with the Sun sextiling Uranus on Saturday, we’ve got encouragement to step outside of our comfort zones and express ourselves a little differently.

Sunday’s full force active. The Moon’s in Aries, inspiring our desire to do this, say that, be here, go there. With Venus at the end of Gemini, the affinity for variety and the pull to mix-it-up are heightened.

Astro-Atlas*
27 May, 12:18 am: Moon (Capricorn) sextile Saturn (Scorpio)
27 May, 12:56 am: Mercury (Gemini) conjunct Jupiter (Gemini)
27 May, 8:12 am: Moon (Capricorn) conjunct Pluto (Capricorn)
27 May, 8:49 am: Moon (Capricorn) square Uranus (Aries)

28 May, 11:40 am: Moon (Capricorn) trine Mars (Taurus)
28 May, 11:40 am: Moon void-of-course
28 May, 12:29 pm: Venus (Gemini) conjunct Jupiter (Gemini)
28 May, 2:48 pm: Moon enters Aquarius

29 May, 12:47 am: Moon (Aquarius) square Saturn (Scorpio)
29 May, 4:27 am: Moon (Aquarius) trine Sun (Gemini)
29 May, 10:01 am: Moon (Aquarius) sextile Uranus (Aries)

30 May, 7:00 am: Moon (Aquarius) trine Jupiter (Gemini)
30 May, 10:21 am: Moon (Aquarius) trine Venus (Gemini)
30 May, 4:37 pm: Moon (Aquarius) trine Mercury (Gemini)
30 May, 4:57 pm: Moon (Aquarius) square Mars (Taurus)
30 May, 4:57 pm: Moon void-of-course
30 May, 5:30 pm: Moon enters Pisces

31 May, 12:07 am: Mercury enters Cancer
31 May, 2:54 AM: Moon (Pisces) conjunct Neptune (Pisces)
31 May, 3:39 am: Mars enters Gemini
31 May, 3:54 am: Moon (Pisces) trine Saturn (Scorpio)
31 May, 11:58 am: Moon (Pisces) square Sun (Gemini)
31 May, 12:58 pm: Moon (Pisces) sextile Pluto (Capricorn)

1 June, 1:18 pm: Moon (Pisces) square Jupiter (Gemini)
1 June, 6:46 pm: Sun (Gemini) sextile Uranus (Aries)
1 June, 9:30 pm: Moon (Pisces) square Venus (Gemini)
1 June, 9:30 pm: Moon void-of-course
1 June, 11:33 pm: Moon enters Aries

2 June, 2:08 am: Moon (Aries) sextile Mars (Gemini)
2 June, 6:07 am: Moon (Aries) square Mercury (Cancer)
2 June, 7:13 pm: Venus enters Cancer
2 June, 8:12 pm: Moon (Aries) square Pluto (Capricorn)
2 June, 9:39 pm: Moon (Aries) conjunct Uranus (Aries)
2 June, 11:47 pm: Moon (Aries) sextile Sun (Gemini)

* all time are Pacific Daylight Time (GMT – 7:00)

Strength comes through integrity. Sustainability comes through integrity. Freedom comes through integrity.

During these years of the Uranus/Pluto square we are seeing just how important integrity is and if it doesn’t exist, structures–even those that are seemingly established–may crumble, sometimes over time and sometimes in what seems like a flash.

As Monday we have the third of seven Uranus/Pluto squares, we may very well be strongly reminded of the importance of integrity, of alignment, of sustainability of holistic coherence once again. And given that the Libra Moon ties into these energetics on Tuesday, some of these themes may show themselves in the realm of our relationships.

Consider what in your life just keeps on keepin’ on. Which area of life seems like it takes more energy to scaffold and keep up its appearances compared to the energy that it provides you? Where, as you muster even more courage, can pull down shaky facades so that you can rebuild these arenas upon incorruptible principles that truly reflect coherence? With the Sun moving into thought-inspiring Gemini and Mercury tying into the Uranus/Pluto square on Monday, looking at this question, even from a different vantage point than usual, may really yield insights.

Being in Gemini season, it’s a time for opening up to the allure of variety, options, and choices. If you find yourself more indecisive, play in those realms instead of moving immediately to frustration. See if there’s a way to weave variables together rather than just having to 100% align with one. Graze, having a little bit of this and that, and see how their patchwork informs and inspires.

While the Art/Temperance card in the Thoth tarot deck (see above) contains the glyph for Sagittarius, it seems to me to also speak to an important facet of Sagittarius’ opposite sign, Gemini. In the card we see the appearance and urged union of opposites and polarities. This feels very Gemini, the Twins who reflect the different sides but who teach us to go the way of synthesis and resolution of duality, rather than division. We’re reminded that there are two sides of every coin and without each there is no manifestation, no artistry, no creation. As such, this iconic card feels like a lovely talisman for Gemini season.

It’s not only the Uranus/Pluto square that’s coloring the powerful tempo of the week but also that we have the third of this season’s three Eclipses appearing on Friday. This Sagittarius Lunar Eclipse brings us connected to themes of information and understanding, publishing messages, and the importance of evolving education. Yet, given Neptune’s relationship to the Eclipse, we may need to work extra hard to discern between fact and fiction. {For more extensive reflections on the Eclipse, including wellness suggestions, please see this article I wrote here.}

Neptune’s influence is palpable (an oxymoron, perhaps, but yet still true) for days following the Eclipse given its exact square with the Sun on Sunday. It’s a gorgeous time for artistry and immersing oneself in spiritual life. During this time, it’s also important to watch one’s boundaries as there’s less separating distinctions. Compassion is on the uprise, which is a beautiful thing. We just need to be mindful…and be mindful that compassion doesn’t overstep its bounds and lead to martyrdom.

With Mercury uniting with Venus on Friday, during the end of the week we may further find ourselves drawn to pursuits of the mind. Communication could take on an erotic feel, as we may find ourselves pulsing with pleasure as we learn new things or exchange viewpoints with others.

Astro-Atlas*
20 May: 9:48 am: Moon (Virgo) trine Sun (Taurus)
20 May: 9:48 am: Moon void-of-course
20 May, 10:07 am: Moon enters Libra
20 May, 2:10 pm: Sun enters Gemini
20 May, 3:21 pm: Uranus (Aries) square Pluto (Capricorn)
20 May, 8:46 pm: Mercury (Gemini) sextile Uranus (Aries)

21 May, 5:55 am: Moon (Libra) square Pluto (Capricorn)
21 May, 5:59 am: Moon (Libra) opposite Uranus (Aries)
21 May, 7:33 am: Moon (Libra) trine Mercury (Gemini)
21 May, 12:24 pm: Moon (Libra) trine Venus (Gemini)

22 May, 12:35 am: Moon (Libra) trine Jupiter (Gemini)
22 May, 12:35 am: Moon void-of-course
22 May, 1:55 pm: Moon enters Scorpio
22 May, 10:45 pm: Moon (Scorpio) trine Neptune (Pisces)

23 May, 12:34 am: Moon (Scorpio) conjunct Saturn (Scorpio)
23 May, 8:25 am: Moon (Scorpio) sextile Pluto (Capricorn)

24 May, 6:55 am: Moon (Scorpio) opposite Mars (Taurus)
24 May, 6:55 am: Moon void-of-course
24 May, 2:49 pm: Moon enters Sagittarius
24 May, 4:54 pm: Mercury (Gemini) conjunct Venus (Gemini)
24 May, 9:25 pm: Lunar Eclipse [Sun (Gemini) opposite Moon (Sagittarius)]
24 May, 11:19 pm: Moon (Sagittarius) square Neptune (Pisces)

25 May, 9:01 am: Moon (Sagittarius) trine Uranus (Aries)
25 May, 11:16 pm: Moon (Sagittarius) opposite Venus (Gemini)

26 May, 12:46 am: Moon (Sagittarius) opposite Mercury (Gemini)
26 May, 3:22 am: Moon (Sagittarius) opposite Jupiter (Gemini)
26 May, 3:22 am: Moon void-of-course
26 May, 3:27 am: Sun (Gemini) square Neptune (Pisces)
26 May, 2:28 pm: Moon enters Capricorn
26 May, 10:59 pm: Moon (Capricorn) sextile Neptune (Pisces)

* all time are Pacific Daylight Time (GMT – 7:00)

May 24: Sagittarius Full Moon Lunar Eclipse (exact at 9:25 pm PDT)

Today is the third of this season’s Eclipses. It follows the Scorpio Lunar Eclipse on April 25 and the Taurus Solar Eclipse on May 9. Remember that 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 Lunar Eclipse signifies a time when things come to fruition. We can see clear glimpses of the outcome of the path that we have pursued. We may find ourselves delighted in the manifestation or may see that it’s not necessarily the results for which we may have been striving. If the latter, the Eclipse can then serve as a beacon of insight to see whether—and how—we need to shift our direction.

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 our 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 a Lunar Eclipse is a Full Moon–which features an opposition of the Sun and the Moon–it is often focused on finding the commonality between seeming opposites. There is heightened emphasis on synthesis and deconstructing duality for a more unified and cohesive understanding. As such it is often thought to be relationship-oriented, as each pole of the opposition tries to better understand itself through its association with the other. This is not always easy, mind you, and can bring conflict. But it is within that where insights into resolution of long-standing discordance may lay.

As such, this celestial event may inspire critical examination associated with your relationships with other people or your relationship with various arenas of your life. For example, the focus may be on your relationship with your education path, your goals, your spiritual life, and your ethical values.

When the Full Moon features the Sun in Gemini and the Moon in Sagittarius, we are often compelled with a need to know. We strive to collect facts and figures not only because of intellectual curiosity but also because they are the vital ingredients that provide us with the deeper sense of the understanding that we seek. Maintaining a balanced appreciation for the pieces and the whole is emphasized. Remember not to lose the forest for the trees, yet don’t forsake the trees for the forest either; both are equally important.

With Mercury, the planet of communications, uniting with Venus today, our love of learning may be even more pronounced. Our value for information and understanding may be heightened.

Yet, the day may seem a bit slippery given that the Sun and Moon both interact with Neptune with the planet of ideals and idealization squaring both luminaries. Be open to what’s possible, and the magic of life, while also trying to keep a handle on what’s realistic. It would seem that channeling our quest for communicating in a way that allows us to serve those in need, in a manner that allows us to step outside of our ego bounds and open to our hearts, may be a fluid way to greet the day.

The experience of travel—whether it be a weeks-long journey to a foreign land or a weekend road trip out of town—often coincides with this Eclipse. (Yet, if you are embarking on a journey make the effort to have your travel plans well laid out since the Neptune tie-in there’s the potential for a greater chance of “getting lost.”). Even if exploration via a plane, train, or automobile isn’t in your plans, use this time for surveying new ideas or cultures; for example, read a book set in another country, flip through National Geographic magazine, or see a foreign-language film. All can magnetize to you enhanced understanding and a broader perspective on life.

The Lunar Eclipse falls at 5 degrees of Gemini (Sun) and Sagittarius (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 Gemini, Sagittarius, or the other mutable signs—Virgo and Pisces—it may impact you more intensely. Additionally, like with other planetary alignments, the house(s) of your natal chart that this Eclipse falls in sheds light on how it may be influencing your unfolding.

Sagittarius Lunar Eclipse Apothecary Suggestions

Gemini is associated with the shoulders, arms, hands, lungs, and nervous system while Sagittarius governs the liver, hips, thighs, and buttocks. Pay extra attention to these parts of the body around the time of this Full Moon.

Collage project: Even for those who consider themselves not artistically inclined, a collage project can be a wonderfully therapeutic and relaxing activity to partake in on this Eclipse. Not only is making a collage a creative expression, but it can be a great vehicle for inventive problem solving. For this aim, just focus on a situation in your life that you are being challenged by and for which you seek a solution. Holding it in your mind’s eye, cut out words and images from old magazines and newspapers that reflect aspects of the situation as well as its potential resolution. Glue these to poster board adding fabric, shells, rocks, or other small bric-a-brac in an arrangement that makes sense to you. Remember that there is no right or wrong here; just use your imagination and allow for your creativity to flow in your quest for discovery. Given that Neptune is prominent, we have enhanced access to our inspired artistry, the ability to tap into our unconscious to extract images, feelings, and symbols that we can express in this creative activity.

Exercise: Schedule in some time to exercise. It need not be vigorous—in fact, gentle may be the name of the game today with a leisurely walk, restorative yoga class, gardening session, or tai chi practice some possibilities. The reason: the day may be rife with bursts of energy and push/pull dynamics that if left to settle in our bodies may cause tension and stress. Doing gentle exercise can help us to circulate the energies and impart relaxation. If exercise doesn’t seem to be “what the doctor ordered” then schedule in some time to meditate, do creative visualization, read, or write in a journal: whatever it is that helps you to feel centered and release excess tension.

The Moon’s in Cancer for the first two-plus days this week, and we’re inclined towards wanting to nest and protect. It does its monthly tie-in from this sensitive sign with the Uranus/Pluto square (the exact alignment of these transcendent planets occurring next week, on the 20th), which may have us feeling a bit turbulent.

On Wednesday not only does the Moon shift into upbeat, express-your-unique-self Leo, but Mercury moves into Gemini, where it resides through the last day of the month. Given Gemini is one of its home-base signs, the collective mind may feel really turned on for the next few weeks. Expect news of the news as well as our thoughts to be a preferred go-to tool for navigating life.

That said, the messages could seem a bit foggy at times towards the end of the week, given Mercury’s square with break-the-boundaries Neptune (exact on Saturday). It could seem that thoughts seep in out of nowhere, including those of the more anxiety-producing, paranoid variety. Focusing on not running away with fearful thoughts is a great strategy.

Yet, Mercury/Neptune can also make available the infusion of artistic inspiration and poetic expressions, which is another opportunity afforded on the weekend. Given that Venus also sextiles Uranus on Saturday, it seems like a key to channelling compassion-driven inspired dialogues and creations is to be open to expressing the true and individual values that set us apart from the pack. With the Moon in Virgo on the weekend it’s important to focus on the pieces of the puzzle without falling victim to an overly critical mind.

Astro-Atlas*
13 May, 2:57 am: Moon enters Cancer
13 May, 1:32 pm: Moon (Cancer) trine Neptune (Pisces)
13 May, 1:48 pm: Venus (Gemini) square Neptune (Pisces)
13 May, 5:15 pm: Moon (Cancer) trine Saturn (Scorpio)

14 May, 1:10 am: Moon (Cancer) square Uranus (Aries)
14 May 1:58 am: Moon (Cancer) opposite Pluto (Capricorn)
14 May, 3:38 pm: Moon (Cancer) sextile Mars (Taurus)

15 May, 5:14 am: Moon (Cancer) sextile Sun (Taurus)
15 May, 5:14 am: Moon void-of-course
15 May, 1:41 pm: Mercury enters Gemini
15 May, 3:38 pm: Moon enters Leo
15 May, 4:03 pm: Moon (Leo) sextile Mercury (Gemini)

16 May, 5:21 am: Moon (Leo) square Saturn (Scorpio)
16 May, 8:52 am: Moon (Leo) sextile Venus (Gemini)
16 May, 1:39 pm: Moon (Leo) trine Uranus (Aries)

17 May, 7:15 am: Moon (Leo) square Mars (Taurus)
17 May, 9:17 am: Moon (Leo) sextile Jupiter (Gemini)
17 May, 9:34 pm: Moon (Leo) square Sun (Taurus)
17 May, 9:34 pm: Moon void-of-course

18 May, 12:20 am: Mercury (Gemini) square Neptune (Pisces)
18 May, 2:33 am: Moon enters Virgo
18 May, 9:40 am: Venus (Gemini) sextile Uranus (Aries)
18 May, 12:35 pm: Moon (Virgo) opposite Neptune (Pisces)
18 May, 3:02 pm: Moon (Virgo) square Mercury (Gemini)
18 May, 3:18 pm: Moon (Virgo) sextile Saturn (Scorpio)
18 May, 11:51 pm: Moon (Virgo) trine Pluto (Capricorn)

19 May, 1:06 am: Moon (Virgo) square Venus (Gemini)
19 May, 6:55 pm: Moon (Virgo) square Jupiter (Gemini)
19 May, 7:23 pm: Moon (Virgo) trine Mars (Taurus)

* all time are Pacific Daylight Time (GMT – 7:00)