November 10, 2011: Taurus Full Moon (exact at 12:16 pm PST)

During the Taurus Full Moon the question “Does this feel good?” takes high precedence, becoming a compass with which we can navigate the choices we make. We can use it to evaluate relationships and situations, reflecting upon whether they help us to feel safe, secure, and inherently appreciated and affirmed.

With the heightened sensuality that this Full Moon yields, we can also ask ourselves “Does this feel good?” from a physical perspective, allowing ourselves to further assess the foods, aromas, sounds, and kinesthetic experiences through which we find valuable nourishment. With both signs relating to between-the-sheets experiences–Taurus because of its affinity with sensual pleasures, Scorpio because of its alignment with our sexual nature–we may feel more drawn to express passions of the heart (et al.) today.

“Does this feel good?” is an especially relevant question given that Taurus likes comfort while Scorpio oftentimes finds regeneration inspired by discomfort. The Taurus Full Moon can provide an opportunity to help us identify how to strike a balance–to nourish ourselves without resting in stasis while inspiring our inner transformation in a compassionate, rather than ruthless, manner.

At this particular Full Moon there’s a strong infusion of Neptunian energy given that the mystical planet is still stationing, having turned direct yesterday. As such, we may find ourselves feeling even more deeply than we usually do, whether to our own or others’ joys or sorrows. We could find ourselves either extremely enchanted or disenchanted with someone or something. Keeping both our heart and eyes open to try to see things as clearly as possible is important, even though it can be challenging. After all, when Neptune beams strongly it gives us a proclivity to glamorizing people and situations (which oftentimes cannot live up to the idealistic projections that we place upon them).

This month’s Full Moon falls at 18 degrees of Scorpio (Sun) and Taurus (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 Scorpio or Taurus or the other fixed signs—Leo and Aquarius—it may impact you more intensely.

Full Moon Apothecary Suggestions

Scorpio is associated with the genitals, reproductive system, urinary tract, and large intestine while Taurus is associated with the neck, throat, thyroid, and inner ears. Pay extra attention to these parts of the body and areas of health around the time of this Full Moon.

Aphrodisiac foods: Indulge in foods that tickle your senses. Some reputed aphrodisiacs include dark chocolate, oysters, artichokes, saffron, and asparagus. Even if they don’t end up lifting your libido, since these delicious foods are so nutrient-rich they’ll definitely elevate your health and wellness.

Sexy smells: Surround yourself with fragrant essential oils that inspire your passionate nature, using them in baths, body oils, or as a perfume. If you’re looking for new aromas to stoke your sensual nature and sex drive, consider ylang ylang, jasmine, sandalwood, and ginger.

November 23 – December 13, 2011: 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 August 2—26.

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 20 degrees to 4 degrees Sagittarius. 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 subconcious 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.

November 24, 2011: Sagittarius New Moon Solar Eclipse (exact at 10:10 pm PST)

New Moons are auspicious monthly celestial events that usher in fresh cycles of creation. When they are also a Solar Eclipse–as today’s is–they hold additional power for manifestation. [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 Solar Eclipse signifies a time for beginnings. As such it usually brings with it endings. That’s because in order for something to firmly root, so that it can flourish, space needs to be made. Therefore, while there is great focus on the initiation of the new, one usually can’t get away from the fact that something(s) may be inherently coming to a close at this point as well.

This Sagittarius Solar Eclipse marks an auspicious time to undertake a new project that can help us 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 garner 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.

Solar Eclipses (as well as Lunar Eclipses) are often accompanied by identifiable life-changing events that manifest around the time of this celestial happening. And with this Eclipse harmoniously tied into Uranus, there may be a greater chance that these life-changing events seem to come out of nowhere.

The planet of innovation, Uranus sparks our need to further find our unique sense of individuality. It inspires within us the urge to do things differently, to undertake a personal [r]evolution in order to experience evolution. When Uranus is strong, as it is today, “expect the unexpected” is a good mantra to follow. By using that as a framework, and knowing that some unanticipated events may occur—but that we just can’t yet anticipate what they will be—we can we disappear some of the potential anxiety that can come from surprises we didn’t even conceptualize would occur. Additionally, by keeping our attention open to the out-of-the-blue novelties that occur, we may be more apt to perceive the value and lessons that they can offer us.

This month’s New Moon Solar Eclipse falls at 3 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 Moon 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.

Jupiter in Taurus: June 4, 2011 – June 11, 2012

Every year, Jupiter–the planet of luck and learning–moves into a new sign. On June 4, 2011 it moves into Taurus, where it will dig its heels until June 11, 2012 (when it enters the sign of Gemini). As Jupiter changes signs it affects the zeitgeist, causing a shift in our collective awareness. It ushers in new trends and elevates the importance–or at least “newsworthiness”–of certain concepts, ideas, and values.

Jupiter expands all that it touches. When it goes through a sign, it highlights the related archetypes and qualities of the sign, which seem to come to greater life. It’s as if there’s a stage light shining on them, enhancing our ability to see their existence and therefore have them register in our psyche. They have more room to play and express themselves. These qualities and symbolic representations get bigger and louder so that we notice them more.

When Jupiter was in Aries on and off again this past year, we saw an expansion of the yang quality. Martial instincts were heightened and we witnessed the ushering in of quick-to-express will power. With Aries ruling the head, we also saw new research coming out related to brain cancer, strokes, and cognitive function. (With Uranus in Aries, these areas of health will likely continue to be revolutionized.)

So what may Jupiter in Taurus yield?

Slow-going Taurus likes its creature comforts. It’s an earthbound sign and therefore concerned with things on the material plane. It prizes the feedback that affirms our existence through our physical senses. If we can see, taste, touch, feel, or smell something we know that it exists, and therefore so do we.

Relatedly, experiencing physical pleasure is also something towards which Taurus gravitates. Also important is having a rhythm and cadence on which it can depend. This brings a sense of security since it enhances the idea (even if an illusion) that one knows what comes next. Change is not Taurus’ strong suit—rather it’s a source of stress. And with that, there’s an associated stubbornness to Taurus. After all, not only is it an earth sign but it’s also a fixed earth sign. It holds onto what it is connected to–whether an idea, possession, or habit–and likes to stay where it is (that is unless/until it is angered so much at which point it can charge like a Bull).

So what trends may the next year usher in?

With the Taurean emphasis on the material, a new breed of materialism may arise. People may cling more to “stuff.” Maybe this will be an expansion of the hoarding trend. We could also witness an upswing in consumerism, even though the economy–and people’s disposable incomes–continues to be challenged.

With Jupiter now in Taurus, it joins Pluto being in an earth sign (Pluto is in Capricorn). We may see an even greater awareness of the issues facing planet Earth, with a growing environmentalism taking shape. Yet, will the materialistic focus here be just a continuation of green-wash marketing? While strategies for reducing our collective use on material resources are more likely a solution, will the Taurean affinity to grab and grasp actually support more conservation efforts?

With Taurus’ focus on the earth and food, we’re likely to see a continued resurgence in home gardens. More people may find pleasure in connecting physically to the land and gaining the satisfaction of seeing their food grow. More cities and communities may follow those like Seattle in their encouragement of urban agriculture.

The symbol for Taurus is the Bull and I bet we’ll see some trends ushered in related to cattle. This may run the gamut. We could see Meatless Mondays further catching on with the don’t-eat-meat-(at least)-once-a-week proposition continuing to take hold. Alternatively, we could also see the Jupiterian “make-it-bigger” influence usher in a backlash against this–with larger meat serving sizes, a more concentrated marketing effort from the dairy industry, and even the expansion and growing popularity of Shake Shack-like ventures. Additionally, news about how cattle and dairy cows are treated may pop up more frequently in the media.

With Jupiter and Saturn now both in Venus-ruled signs, the infusion of the feminine into consciousness may continue to grow. It’s a year where Aphrodite may really shine. Taurus prefers zaftig to rail thin. Will the Rubenesque-shaped woman like Christina Hendricks (herself a Taurus Sun) be more genuinely embraced as models of beauty?

Relatedly, with Taurus associated with sustenance, the senses, and the material plane, our relationship to food is likely to be a hot topic. I’ll keep an eye out for more fad diets as well as a growing awareness about how food not only feeds our body but our emotions. Topics such as comfort eating and our psychological connectedness with our eating may gain more traction with the ideas from authors such as Geneen Roth becoming more popular.

In medical/wellness astrology, Taurus rules the throat and neck. People may find themselves focusing on improving the health of these parts of their body. Additionally, they may seem themselves more prone to experiencing their stress there.

Taurus also rules the thyroid gland. New discoveries related to how vital it is to overall health may come into vogue. Hopefully, though, the growing focus on thyroid health issues won’t be related to evidencing a corollary negative manifestation of the impact of the radiation from the Fukushima Nuclear Plant meltdown. Taurus also rules the inner ears, making me wonder whether new research or cures for tinnitus and/or hearing loss will gain traction.

As for wellness treatments, treatments that evoke the senses should hold greater appeal. Fragrance-infused therapies–such as those that feature aromatherapy–may find themselves having more widespread appeal. With Taurus’ connection to the senses as well as the inner ear, sound healing including acutonics may become more popular.

Beside from how Jupiter in Taurus may impact us collectively, it affects each of us individually. Of course those with planets in Taurus will find themselves with a sense of expansion where they will gain insights into facets of themselves. Earth (Taurus, Virgo, and Capricorn) and water (Cancer, Scorpio, and Pisces) signs sync more gracefully with Taurus than do air (Gemini, Libra, and Aquarius) and fire (Aries, Leo, and Sagittarius) signs, whose quick natures may find themselves becoming impatient when they encounter this slow and steadfast energy.

I hope that Jupiter’s voyage through Taurus yields you with prosperity, pleasure, and comfort, and all that you sense is important to your well-being.

* What do you find sensually pleasing?

* What gives you a sense of security?

* When does being practical serve you and when does reliance upon it get in your way?

* Are you OK with change or does it disturb your sense of inner quietude?

* How do you find your groove, and if you lose it, can you easily get it back?

Examining these questions, whether or not you have strong Taurus influence in your own personal astrology chart, can yield fruitful self-examination during this time. For more on the Taurus New Moon, including wellness strategies, see this post.

During the Taurus/Scorpio Full Moon we experience the juxtaposition of the practical (Taurus) and the emotional (Scorpio). The interplay between these two signs helps us to forge an awareness that what we see—what has form—is reliant upon that which is unseen but deeply felt.

As it reflects the relationship between the ground (Taurus) and the underground (Scorpio), a garden is a great image to consider when looking at the meaning of this Full Moon. Our senses appreciate the glory of the flowers, trees, ferns, and other earthly Taurean gems that flourish. Yet, it’s important to remember that none of this growth would be possible were it not for that which occurs out of sight, below the surface—such as the complex root structure, the hardworking earthworms, and the decay that feeds the soil. What we are called on to appreciate during this Full Moon is that the beauty we see is not just on the surface but also exists in the places that we may often shy away from, those we may consider “unseemly” or “out of bounds.” Given that Mercury is aligned with the Full Moon, we may be able to more readily connect with the words and images that can help us give voice to these reflections.

There is a tenacity that fills the air during this Full Moon since both signs are known for this quality: Taurus is stubborn and likes to do what it wants while Scorpio clenches tightly to that which it desires to possess. Combine this with the sexuality inherent in both signs—Taurus from the perspective of enjoying the sensual and Scorpio because of its appreciation of transformative experiences—and you’re looking at a day filled with passion and pleasure.

This month’s Full Moon falls at 8 degrees of Taurus (Sun) and Scorpio (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 Taurus, Scorpio, or the other fixed signs—Leo and Aquarius—it may impact you more intensely.

Full Moon Apothecary Suggestions

Taurus is associated with the neck, throat, and inner ears while Scorpio is associated with the genitals, bladder, and large intestine. Pay extra attention to these parts of the body around the time of this Full Moon.

Flower petal bath: Submerge your body in a sensuality-inspiring bath. Fill a small drawstring muslin bag (available at health and beauty-aid stores) with petals from your favorite fragrant flowers. While the bath is filling, hang the flower bag on the tub’s spout, and then let it float in the water after the bath is ready. (If you have a good drain cover, consider floating some petals themselves in the bath.) Enhance the aromatics of your experience by adding a few drops of floral essential oils—such as jasmine, rose, or rose geranium—to the bath.

Mud therapy: Mud holds great therapeutic benefits, including detoxification and muscle relaxation. As mud reflects aspects of Taurus (the earth) and Scorpio (the dark and dirty), treatments using this powerful material are well suited during this Full Moon. Many spas offer body polishing mud treatments (also known as fangotherapy). Or purchase some mud at a natural apothecary, applying it as a mask to your face and/or body, reveling in its ability to uncover more of your natural beauty.

During the Scorpio/Taurus Full Moon the question “Does this feel good?” takes high precedence, becoming a compass with which we can navigate our lives and the choices we make. We can use it to evaluate relationships and situations, reflecting upon whether they help us to feel safe, secure, and inherently appreciated and affirmed.  With the heightened sensuality that this Full Moon yields, we can also ask ourselves “Does this feel good?” from a physical perspective as well, allowing us to further assess the music, food, aromas, and kinesthetic experiences through which we find valuable nourishment.

Given that there is a harmonious aspect today between pleasure-seeking Venus and devotion-inspiring Neptune, we may also be more inclined to consider “Does this feel good?” when reflecting upon the effects of our actions on other people. Our ability to connect with the well of compassion and empathy is elevated today as is the sense of love-is-in-the-air energy.

This Full Moon weaves in Mercury, the planet of communication. This gives us greater access to thoughts that may have been hovering slightly below the surface of our conscious mind as well as the ability to express these to others. The desire to let another know the truth of what we’re feeling, though, may be met with a bit of self-resistance as we question whether it will risk our sense of security. It’s important to focus on ways that we can be true to who we are and know that we can still feel protected in its pursuit.

This month’s Full Moon falls at 11 degrees of Scorpio (Sun) and Taurus (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 Scorpio, Taurus, or the other fixed signs—Leo and Aquarius—it may impact you more intensely.

Full Moon Apothecary Suggestions

Scorpio is associated with the genitals, reproductive system, urinary tract, and large intestine while Taurus is associated with the neck, throat, and inner ears. Pay extra attention to these parts of the body and areas of health around the time of this Full Moon.

Aphrodisiac foods: Indulge in foods that tickle your senses. Some reputed aphrodisiacs include dark chocolate, oysters, artichokes, saffron, and asparagus. Even if they don’t end up lifting your libido, since these delicious foods are so nutrient-rich they’ll definitely elevate your health and wellness.

Explore essential oils: Today is a lovely day to surround yourself with beauty that inspires your senses. As such, visit a natural food store or holistic pharmacy and spend some time in their aromatherapy section, smelling the essential oils that they offer. As you inhale each fragrance, connect with where it takes you and how it makes you feel. You’ll likely find at least one new fragrance that can uplift your spirits and enhance your sense of well-being.

November 16, 2009: Scorpio New Moon  (exact at 11:14 am PST)

New Moons signal beginnings. Given that this one is in Scorpio—and yesterday we experienced the first of the exact squares of Pluto and Saturn—what is being planted for growth is likely an outcome of having let go of something else.  Reflect upon what it is in your life that you have found to have become outworn, something that you have released or are considering releasing. Envision what it is that you would like to create in its place, something that can transform your life so that you can experience a greater depth of joy.

Scorpio represents that which is hidden, the unseen. It’s not that these things necessarily have to be kept in the dark, it’s just that we usually “don’t want to go there.” During a Scorpio New Moon, subjects considered to be taboo may rise to the surface. If your natural reflex is to turn a blind eye to these, allow yourself to just contemplate them for a moment, even if at a distance. You may end up finding them a great source of learning, even if it’s more clearly understanding what it is that causes your aversion.

As this New Moon squares Neptune, we’re likely to be swimming in tidal pools of compassion. This may open us up to feeling even more deeply than we already do, whether to our own or others’ joys or sorrows. With this planetary combination, we may also find ourselves either extremely enchanted or disenchanted with someone or something; keeping both your heart and eyes open to see things as clearly as possible is very helpful to so as to avoid floating away with either of these feelings.

This month’s New Moon falls at 25 degrees of Scorpio (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 Scorpio or the other fixed signs—Taurus, Leo, and Aquarius—it may impact you more intensely.

New Moon Apothecary Suggestions

Scorpio is associated with the genitals, reproductive system, urinary tract, and large intestines. Pay attention to these parts of the body and areas of health around the time of this New Moon.

Helichrysum essential oil: During the Scorpio New Moon—a time of rebirth and revival—it’s good to know about helichrysum essential oil, itself known for its regenerative properties. Also known as everlasting and immortelle, helichrysum is a favorite when the skin needs assistance in healing scars and wounds. Its regenerative properties are also thought to be experienced on an emotional level, as many find that it helps to release repressed feelings while catalyzing greater self-compassion.

Pink Monkeyflower flower essence: As the Scorpio energy allows us to probe deeply, this New Moon can be an auspicious time to go within and find the aspects of ourselves that we have been hiding, likely because of fear of being vulnerable or concern that if we show who we truly are we may be abandoned. This emotional armoring—usually accompanied by an inherited sense of shame–keeps us from sharing ourselves truly with others (and sometimes even with ourselves) and restricts us from living more freely. Pink Monkeyflower essence can help fortify our hearts, helping us to take risks emotionally so that we can let our selves—and love—more fluidly flow through. (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.)

During the Scorpio/Taurus Full Moon the question “Does this feel good?” takes high precedence, becoming a compass with which we can navigate our lives and the choices we make. We can use it to evaluate relationships and situations, reflecting upon whether they help us to feel safe, secure, and inherently appreciated and affirmed.  With the heightened sensuality that this Full Moon yields, we can also ask ourselves “Does this feel good?” from a physical perspective as well, allowing us to further assess the music, food, aromas, and kinesthetic experiences through which we find valuable nourishment.

Given that there is a harmonious aspect today between pleasure-seeking Venus and devotion-inspiring Neptune, we may also be more inclined to consider “Does this feel good?” when reflecting upon the effects of our actions on other people. Our ability to connect with the well of compassion and empathy is elevated today as is the sense of love-is-in-the-air energy.

This Full Moon weaves in Mercury, the planet of communication. This gives us greater access to thoughts that may have been hovering slightly below the surface of our conscious mind as well as the ability to express these to others. The desire to let another know the truth of what we’re feeling, though, may be met with a bit of self-resistance as we question whether it will risk our sense of security. It’s important to focus on ways that we can be true to who we are and know that we can still feel protected in its pursuit.

This month’s Full Moon falls at 11 degrees of Scorpio (Sun) and Taurus (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 Scorpio, Taurus, or the other fixed signs—Leo and Aquarius—it may impact you more intensely.

Full Moon Apothecary Suggestions

Scorpio is associated with the genitals, reproductive system, urinary tract, and large intestine while Taurus is associated with the neck, throat, and inner ears. Pay extra attention to these parts of the body and areas of health around the time of this Full Moon.

Aphrodisiac foods: Indulge in foods that tickle your senses. Some reputed aphrodisiacs include dark chocolate, oysters, artichokes, saffron, and asparagus. Even if they don’t end up lifting your libido, since these delicious foods are so nutrient-rich they’ll definitely elevate your health and wellness.

Explore essential oils: Today is a lovely day to surround yourself with beauty that inspires your senses. As such, visit a natural food store or holistic pharmacy and spend some time in their aromatherapy section, smelling the essential oils that they offer. As you inhale each fragrance, connect with where it takes you and how it makes you feel. You’ll likely find at least one new fragrance that can uplift your spirits and enhance your sense of well-being.

This experience captures some of the astrological energy of the day, with Neptune and Jupiter squaring the Taurus Moon. Consider what in your life you have actually gained by losing something, and how the feeling inherent in the freedom of detachment turned out to be of much greater value than that which you were separated from.

During the Taurus/Scorpio Full Moon we experience the juxtaposition of the practical (Taurus) and the emotional (Scorpio). The interplay between these two signs helps us to forge an awareness that what we see—what has form—is reliant upon that which is unseen but deeply felt.

As it reflects the relationship between the ground (Taurus) and the underground (Scorpio), a garden is a great image to consider when looking at the meaning of this Full Moon. Our senses appreciate the glory of the flowers, trees, ferns, and other earthly Taurean gems that flourish. Yet, it’s important to remember that none of this growth would be possible were it not for that which occurs out of sight, below the surface—such as the complex root structure, the hardworking earthworms, and the decay that feeds the soil. What we are called on to appreciate during this Full Moon is that the beauty we see is not just on the surface but also exists in the places that we may often shy away from, those we may consider “unseemly” or “out of bounds.”

There is a tenacity that fills the air during this Full Moon since both signs are known for this quality: Taurus is stubborn and likes to do what it wants while Scorpio clenches tightly to that which it desires to possess. Combine this with the sexuality inherent in both signs—Taurus from the perspective of enjoying the sensual and Scorpio because of its appreciation of transformative experiences—and you’re looking at a day filled with passion and pleasure.

This month’s Full Moon falls at 19 degrees of Taurus (Sun) and Scorpio (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 Taurus, Scorpio, or the other fixed signs—Leo and Aquarius—it may impact you more intensely.

Full Moon Apothecary Suggestions

Taurus is associated with the neck, throat, and inner ears while Scorpio is associated with the genitals, bladder, and large intestine. Pay extra attention to these parts of the body around the time of this Full Moon.

Flower petal bath: Submerge your body in a sensuality-inspiring bath. Fill a small drawstring muslin bag (available at health and beauty-aid stores) with petals from your favorite fragrant flowers. While the bath is filling, hang the flower bag on the tub’s spout, and then let it float in the water after the bath is ready. (If you have a good drain cover, consider floating some petals themselves in the bath.) Enhance the aromatics of your experience by adding a few drops of floral essential oils—such as jasmine, rose, or rose geranium—to the bath.

Mud therapy: Mud holds great therapeutic benefits, including detoxification and muscle relaxation. As mud reflects aspects of Taurus (the earth) and Scorpio (the dark and dirty), treatments using this powerful material are well suited during this Full Moon. Many spas offer body polishing mud treatments (also known as fangotherapy). Or purchase some mud at the natural apothecary, applying it as a mask to your face and/or body, and revel in its ability to uncover more of your natural beauty.

May 6–May 30, 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 January 11–31.

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 also 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 back-up 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, journalling, and nondominant hand writing 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. Also, be aware if you have to sign any binding contract during Mercury retrograde (putting of doing so if possible) as oftentimes all of the information you need to make a decision isn’t available or clear.

When you think of how to approach a retrograde period, just remember the first two letters of the word—“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, recommunicate, et al.

During this retrograde period, Mercury travels from 2 degrees Gemini to 23 degrees Taurus. 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 hand writing: This exercise is easy to do and takes minimal time commitment. Just think of a question that you want an answer to, 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 greatly therapeutic: It provides a trip down memory lane and it also helps us to unburden ourselves of things that no longer best serve us. If your closets don’t need to be cleaned, consider reorganizing your desk drawers or pantry shelves.