The Week Ahead

Monday March 8 thru Sunday March 15

Astrological Highlights for the week: The Sun gets dreamy with Neptune on Wednesday; New Moon in imaginative Pisces on Saturday while Venus pumps up the Pisces vibe when it joins Neptune that evening

Let's talk Neptune; or rather let's dive into the ethereal experience of the mystic planet. The planets take their turns being in the spotlight and this week Neptune seems to appear in every scene of the unfolding story. The planet of dreams and illusions merges auras with the Sun on Wednesday; and sits right next to both the Sun and Moon on Saturday at the time of the New Moon at 23 Pisces. Before the day is done, Venus catches up for her annual date with Neptune.

You probably have heard me say or write about Jupiter expanding, Saturn organizing, Uranus shattering and Pluto transforming. So what about Neptune? This planet Transcends. We literally re-imagine the tenuous reality of material form and move toward the experience of unity. To transcend is to move beyond limits, especially those serving as boundaries of physical form. Neptune is the planet of imagination and altered states of consciousness, hence its close association with drugs, alcohol, and spirituality.

Neptune was orbiting in the sign of Pisces when it was discovered in 1846. With an orbit averaging 165 years, this is the first time Neptune has been back in Pisces. Lucky us!

Astrologers look to current events as a way to identify the resonating qualities of a planet. Here is a quick but incomplete synopsis of what was going on mid-century when Neptune was identified. Drugs were first used as anesthetics during surgery and medical procedures; hypnosis was developed, religious and philosophical systems including mystic belief systems grew by leaps and bounds and there were major new developments in the fields of wireless communication and photography.

You know what else was going on? The Pioneering Women's Right Convention was held in New York in 1848; the Republican Party was founded in 1854 and the Abolitionist movement to end slavery was sweeping through the United States. As Neptune returns to Pisces (2011 through January 2026) think of how we are revisiting these ideas and institutions. A wave of change regarding the legality and use of drugs is building across the US; profound reviews of human rights issues are more prominently in public and personal awareness, like for example Black Lives Matter and immigration; and women � we are not giving up or going away until the idea of discrimination and unequal and differential treatment is a distant memory. Organizations founded during the last passage of Neptune through Pisces, including the GOP are going through a spiritual revolution and re-awakening to identify and realign values and priorities. The Neptune tsunami does not wait for permission to dissolve what we believe is indestructible.  

On a personal level Neptune allows us to dream and imagine. It is the part of us that is intuitive, sensitive, and impressionable. There is a reason Pisces is often referred to as the Psychic Sponge. Not exactly an attractive analogy but an appropriate one. Through the experience of Neptune we realize we are so much more than physical bodies living in a physical universe. It is possible to move beyond physical boundaries by dissolving inner barriers. On a more global level, Neptune describes the myths, dreams and fantasies of a generation. Although these ideas may operate on largely unconscious levels, they are demonstrated through Neptunian forms of fashion, fads, and especially in trends involving art and creativity including movies.  

Yes, Neptune is also affectionately known as the Cosmic Solvent, as helpful, harmless and as profoundly dangerous as water. With the abundance of Pisces energy this week, including a notable New Moon we have the power to dissolve and transcend some of our own personal issues and jump start our dreams and fantasies. They are the foundation of our inspiration and our passions. Allow yourself to daydream, fantasize and imagine while resisting the urge to merely escape. The two Pisces fish represent the choice � we can elevate upwards or slide downwards. If you find yourself swimming in a direction you don't like, swish your tail and believe in your dreams.

This week, I'll leave you with a couple of very Piscean quotes the first from writer C. S. Lewis.

"You don't have a soul. You are a soul. You have a body."

And the next from one of my favorite Pisces native, Albert Einstein:

�There are only two ways to live your life. One is as though nothing is a miracle. The other is as though everything is a miracle.�
Until next week, let go and wear loose clothes.

MONDAY
March 8
Moon in Capricorn/Aquarius
The Moon goes Void of Course 4:52pm enters Aquarius 11:41pm
Neptune loses no time in exerting an influence this week as the planet of dreams makes a connection with the Moon in pragmatic Capricorn early this morning. We can use its gentle and forgiving touch since the Capricorn Moon is feeling a bit miserly and withholding today. Fears, based in reality or not, can take up valuable space in our heads and grow if left unchecked. The Neptune connection helps spark creativity and tends to infuse the day with kindness and artistry. If we lean into our intuition and imagination, rather than our fears, we�ll find we can tap into resourcefulness and vision.

By late afternoon � ready or not � we get pulled out of this otherworldly playground when the Moon connects with transformational Pluto also in Capricorn. It�s time to get real. This can be a somewhat compulsive energy with deep and personal feelings coming to the surface. We may experience the joy and agony of feeling attached to something or someone. Regardless of the depth of our feelings, we know this is a time to face facts and make grown-up decisions. The Moon is void of course until almost midnight (Pacific Time) giving us time to think over incoming insights before taking action tomorrow.

Daily Muse: You can't win until you're not afraid to lose. (Jon Bon Jovi � Moon in Capricorn.)

TUESDAY
March 9
Moon in Aquarius?
Cooperation is the name of the game under the influence of a visionary Moon in Aquarius. Valuing others for their unique talents reinforces our appreciation for ourselves and goes a long way toward making even the most difficult jobs and tasks bearable and easy. A lunar trine to Mars in Gemini at dawn puts us in the mood to take swift and decisive action, or at least talk about it! If making contacts, networking, or initiating communications is on the agenda, get cracking early. Mars shows us the way. This should be a great day for early morning meetings and brainstorming sessions.

Mid-afternoon, we may bump heads with someone as the Moon rekindles the on-going tensions between revolutionary Uranus and disciplined and structured Saturn. First Luna provokes Uranus through a square then joins Saturn. In an unfamiliar situation we tend to retreat; except our safe place may not be all that safe. What we are really bumping up against is not someone else, but rather our own thinking and limitations. We may blame someone else for making us feel uncomfortable, but upon further examination we might realize no one is holding us back except for our own fears.

The ongoing rivalry between Uranus and Saturn demonstrates our desire to feel safe within traditional patterns and habits while also wanting to move beyond limits. We want to control and feel in charge, while also desiring a sense of freedom that comes by stepping outside our usual lifestyles. We want to put the top down on the convertible and let the wind rip through our hair, but we're happier in the driver's seat than as a passenger. It's a struggle, a challenge, and a dance. Maybe we just need the right music to inspire us.  

Daily Muse: Gifted children and child prodigies seem most likely to emerge in highly supportive family conditions. In contrast, geniuses have a perverse tendency of growing up in more adverse conditions. (Malcolm Gladwell � Saturn in Aquarius)

WENSDAY
March 10
Moon in Aquarius
The Moon goes Void of Course 7:32pm

Our visions for what�s possible are inspired and fueled today when the Moon in inventive Aquarius takes a monthly meeting with expansive Jupiter. We are setting higher and more ambitious goals probably with equally aggressive agendas for reaching them. We are ready to blaze new trails with a sense of eagerness. We are motivated and bold in our thinking and in our behavior. Eat a nutritious breakfast this morning; you will need the energy to follow-through.

In late afternoon the Sun in Pisces catches up with Neptune. The planet of transcendence, guides us to move through limitations and barriers not with brute strength and force but by changing our attitude and perception. Neptune dissolves physical matter like sugar in a glass of water, a drip wearing away a rock, or a river changing its course over time. Neptune teaches us a different approach. For example if we want to influence a person or sell something we might want to remember our shared interests. Instead of focusing on yourself or product, get into the head and heart of the other person. What do they want and need? How can you be of service and meet their needs? Stepping into their lives or shoes helps us understand their positions and identify with their needs.

Neptune�s conjunction with the Sun often puts us in touch with higher qualities and values such as forgiveness, compassion, kindness, and gentleness. It�s easier to tap into our imagination, creativity, and intuition. Neptune is considered to be a higher octave or vibration of Venus. Where Venus thinks in personal terms � I want, attract, or love this individual; Neptune resonates with more universal, divine, or spiritual love.

I am reminded of the story of Les Miserable. The recently paroled prisoner Jean Valjean is given refuge by a Bishop, treating him with dignity and compassion. After sneaking off with the Bishop�s silver, Valjean is captured by the police and says the silver was a gift. Amazingly enough, the Bishop, seeing something worthwhile in Valjean not only affirms the story but gives him two additional silver pieces saying he had left behind part of the gift. This act of kindness is enough to spark the distant memory within Valjean of his true self and he knows no matter what, he needs to begin a better life. You might say the Bishop, by seeing his divine nature, helped him see a higher self. By the world�s standards this was an unorthodox thing to do � reward a thief instead of punishing him. It was a very Neptunian thing to do. As the reader of the story or member of the audience watching the play or movie, we applaud. We were rooting for Valjean all along.

The Aquarian Moon makes a final connection this evening, this time with Mercury, also in Aquarius. We are on a roll with conversations, discussions of far-reaching ideas, and futuristic plans.

Daily Muse: The man with no imagination has no wings. (Muhammad Ali � Moon conjunct Mercury in Aquarius)

THURSDAY
March 11
Moon in Aquarius/Pisces
The Moon enters Pisces 6:44am
The Moon dips into the unpredictable waters of Pisces early this morning. We don�t usually think of Pisces as being random or erratic. Think of it more like the ocean. Although the movement of the tides is very routine; rogue waves, riptides, and undertows are to be expected. But as forces of nature they are not under our control. Like a sailor or surfer who has learned to read the winds and the sea, we successfully navigate the mystical Pisces energy by recognizing its nature and making the necessary adjustments.

We feel the need most keenly, for making these accommodations, in mid-afternoon when the Moon squares head-strong Mars. There may be a different agenda in operation than the one we set out for ourselves. Instead of going directly to a goal we may have to zigzag like a sailboat catching the wind. When coming across a delay or obstacle take a moment to clarify your overall goal. Maybe some of the details can be changed or re-arranged without negatively impacting the big picture. Consider delegating to others or reprioritizing what�s important to accomplish in this moment.

Tonight we feel more creative when the Moon connects with Uranus. Coloring outside the lines and using our imaginations to redesign our strategies feels good and proves effective.

Daily Muse: I see music as fluid architecture. (Joni Mitchell � Moon in Pisces)

FRIDAY
March 12
Moon in Pisces
The Pisces Moon is about as obvious as a mermaid swimming in the depths of the ocean today as she escapes into the invisibility of the New Moon which perfects at 2:21 am (Pacific Time) Saturday morning. But just like the mermaid, just because we can�t see her doesn�t mean we don�t feel her presence and know she is there. The energy is particularly mystical, supernatural and magical today as Luna steadily moves toward joining both Venus and Neptune also in Pisces later this evening, just hours before the New Moon. This cosmic alliance has profound spiritual overtones.  

Your boss or co-workers are not likely to give you a pass by talking about the mystical qualities of the energy today, but it�s worth a try. Today is better suited for spiritual activities and practices, or creative efforts than for routine every day work and details. Our hearts just aren�t in it! We are looking for a personal connection to the universe. Life without a spiritual discipline and a sense of magic feels incomplete and dreary.

This is a great day for exploring your spiritual side, tapping into intuition and psychic abilities and generally communicating with life. We prefer to merge than to resist. If there is any resistance to be done, it�s best to avoid the more shadowy means of altered states of consciousness like alcohol and drugs. Many of us will feel more sensitive and impressionable than usual as the supernatural Pisces Moon, along with her allies Venus and Neptune, rule the day and night.

Daily Muse: I believe that we are here for each other, not against each other. Everything comes from an understanding that you are a gift in my life - whoever you are, whatever our differences. (John Denver � Moon in Pisces)

SATURDAY
March 13
Moon in Pisces/Aries
New Moon 23� Pisces 2:21am
The Moon goes Void of Course 8:38 am enters Aries 3:44pm
Officially the New Moon at 23 Pisces occurs early this morning, and as far as New Moons go, it�s a keeper. There is an amazing convergence of compatible energies as the Sun and Moon come together in compassionate, spiritual, and mystical Pisces. The presence of Neptune, Pisces ruling planet, a mere three degrees away from the Sun and Moon super charge the natural qualities of Pisces creating an atmosphere even more conducive to imagination, dreaming, and transcending the physical boundaries and limitations of life as we know it. And don�t forget Venus, the planet of values is also right next door with a planned meeting with Neptune later this evening.

There is no better time for imagination and creativity than on a Pisces New Moon. The sky is the limit. The Piscean story is the journey toward and away from reality. Her strength is in Believing. Like her opposite sign Virgo she dances between her inner personal world and the need to be intimately involved on a grander scale. The boundaries between fantasy and reality are blurred and even dissolved. In fact, the idea of boundaries is very important to Pisces. If I offered you a drink of water but didn�t provide a cup or container, you�d probably look sideways at me; and you�d have every right. Pisces energy, creativity, intuition and compassion is best when channeled through, or bound by a container, a plan, or vehicle. Our New Moon dreams and intentions need pragmatic strategies for manifestation.

Today our feet may not be touching the ground as we swim through the fluid and changing Pisces ocean of energy; although we�ll have a lifeline when the Moon connects with Pluto in very grounded Capricorn. This is a cue to not resist the guidelines that can help us manifest those dreams. Mid afternoon, we�re fully awake when the Moon marches into fiery and courageous Aries. Forget all that sweet sensitivity when Aries ambition moves in.

Tonight we hear a strong echo of the Pisces themes when Venus meets up with Neptune. Both can act as cosmic magnets, helping us attract not only what we love, but what�s for our highest good. Magic is afoot tonight!

Daily Muse: Dreams are today�s answers to tomorrow�s questions. (Edgar Cayce � Sun, Mercury, Venus, Saturn, and North Node of the Moon in Pisces)

SUBDAY
March 14
Moon in Aries
Daylight Saving Time
The active Aries Moon can feel like a jolt today especially as it connects with Mars in Gemini before dawn. You weren�t thinking about sleeping in were you? In several parts of the world, including the US, the night was shorter than usual with Daylight Savings Time kicking in early this morning. We may be even more resistant to getting our day started but let the good vibrations of the New Moon inspire you to act.

It�s time to consider some action. By mid-day the Moon also connects with disciplined Saturn. Just in case we were thinking about just hanging around and taking it easy, the cosmos is not exactly accommodating this plan. You can ease into things if you want; planning itself is a useful activity.

The Moon in Aries also connects with Chiron, the Wounded Healer today. This can be empowering or stir up vulnerabilities. If you find yourself looking for a fight, take a breath. You probably want someone else to be responsible for something you are trying to deny and bury in your own psyche. Be gentle with yourself and be gentle with others. We are all walking a challenging road and allies are more useful then enemies.

Daily Muse: If you think you can do better, then do better. Don't compete with anyone; just yourself�Don't dance for the audience, dance for yourself. (Bob Fosse � Moon, Jupiter and Uranus in Aries)