kmartin60
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Posted Mon Jun 27, 2022 9:01 pm...
THE WEEK AHEAD
Monday June 27th through Sunday July 3rd?
Planets Changing Signs this Week: None. However, this is the last week for Mars in its home sign of Aries and Mercury in its home sign of Gemini. If you are loving the inspiration and energy, soak it up. Mars and Mercury both change signs ? Mars into Taurus and Mercury into Cancer ? on the Fourth of July.?
Retrograding Planets ? Neptune moves into its annual retrograde pattern early Tuesday morning. This pattern extends through December 3, 2022. As the planet of dreams and illusions, this period can take us deeper into personal reflection, shadow work, our creativity, and connecting with a spiritual philosophy or discipline. It can also be a time of increasing confusion as we struggle with altered states of consciousness ? some intentional, some not.?
Since Neptune is retrograde every year for about 40% of the time, we become somewhat acclimated to its inward journey, like the tides pulling in and out and the Moon moving through a predictable pattern of waxing and waning. With Neptune retrograde we can expect our intuition to be aroused. This is a time when false realities and illusions are unmasked. Harsh realities are likely to replace fantasy. Areas where we have been deceived, blinded, or misinformed will be revealed. Neptune retrograde can trigger old wounds, fears, phobias, and blind spots. It can also provide the motivation and awareness to work through and heal them.?
Rather than looking for an external culprit, recognize that retrograding Neptune can help us see where we are kidding ourselves. We may recognize behaviors of self-sacrifice, victimization, or escape that we are using as coping mechanisms. Now we can see more clearly whether they are useful and productive or self-sabotaging.?
Neptune?s and Pisces? association with water, alcohol, drugs, altered states of consciousness, spirituality, photography, and movies make these obvious choices for both increasing our intuition and awareness and understandable choices for abuse. Of course, there are others, too many to name! Anything used to excess becomes a vehicle for escape. Does this mean I shouldn?t binge watch two seasons of Resident Alien with pizza and a double batch of chocolate-chip cookies? It all depends on my purpose and motivation. One person?s creative process is another?s escape.?
During the retrograde period we can hone our psychic skills, increase our sensitivity and awareness by being objective observers of our thoughts, feelings, and behavior. If you are so inclined, notice your triggers and fears. What situations or feelings prompt you to grab your running shoes or car keys and run away, put on your headphones to escape interaction, or indulge in that second, third, or fourth alcoholic drink to dull your senses? As always, trying to identify and understand your purpose is the key.? This is a fabulous time to consciously tap into creativity and spiritual systems and disciplines for greater self-awareness and healing. But if that doesn?t work, try binging on Resident Alien. It will change your perspective and make you laugh.?
Saturn and Pluto continue their retrograde patterns this week.
Insights from the Moon ? The Moon is in Mercury-ruled Gemini on Monday which is the last full day of the current lunar cycle. But the usual melancholy may be conspicuously absent with Mars in Aries making a helpful sextile to Saturn in Aquarius. We may still be in a letting go mood, but we can?t help but be excited and energized by new possibilities. Life and conversations are animated and learning, and teaching are favored.
The New Moon at 7 Cancer occurs on Tuesday evening at 7:52 pm (PDT). The prelude includes both the Sun and Moon making conflictual squares to expansive Jupiter in Aries. These conflicts are likely to be very influential not only on Tuesday but throughout the 29-day lunar cycle. Despite Cancer?s nurturing and caretaking disposition, the independence and possibly selfish tensions created by the Jupiter squares will bring out the protective, defensive, and offensive postures of Cancer. This can be a used for good! Not only will we see the aggressive mama bear protecting her cubs, but we will also identify with our own inner child screaming for some attention. It?s time to prioritize ourselves and our needs, especially if we have been sidelining them in preference for taking care of others.?
The energy of this New Moon is highly emotional, dramatic, and changeable. As rogue waves beat against the shoreline, the sand is shifting. The ground beneath our feet is markedly in flux. Circumstances, priorities, and responsibilities are changing. We are not able to sit still, lest we find ourselves in a completely different world asking ourselves how we got here.? Like water and wind sculpt the contours of the environment, circumstances are changing the parameters of our lives.?
The New Moon cycle in Cancer buffeted by the winds of Jupiter and enlightened by Neptune?s retrograde is on target to be a memorable and productive time. Keep in mind too, we are also under the influence of the disciplined and energetic connection between Mars and Saturn that perfects on Monday. There are going to be some false and premature starts thanks to Jupiter, but don?t be discouraged. Hold fast to your visions and your ideals. The plan has changed but we are up to the challenge. Be assertive, bold, and persevering.?
On Wednesday and Thursday, the Moon continues her transit through Cancer. The focus will continue to be less on caretaking of others and more on striking a balance between giving and receiving. As individuals we continue to be motivated to step out of the shadows. Instead of being the wind beneath someone else?s wings, we want to pursue our own ambitions.?
On Friday the Moon enters playful Leo in time for the holiday weekend. It?s not all fun and games though, especially on Friday night when Mars squares Pluto in Capricorn. Personal self-expression is high on our list but the fight between Mars and Pluto makes us second guess our tactics. Mostly because they aren?t working!
The Leo Moon is trying to squeak out some play time and we?re likely to find it on Saturday afternoon. Although like Friday, second guessing ourselves seems to be flourishing with Mercury conflicting with Neptune and a lunar opposition to Saturn. On Sunday morning, we find a sense of achievement by getting back to basics with practical tasks. Finishing up a work assignment may be on the agenda with the Moon entering conscientious Virgo. Planning, and organizing holiday gatherings and generally pitching in keeps the Virgo Moon on an even keel.? ?
Until next week, let go and wear loose clothes.
Monday?
June 27, 2022
MOON IN GEMINI
MOON GOES VOID OF COURSE: 7:38PM
The last full day of the lunar cycle, (New Moon tomorrow evening) brings a timely and welcome gift. Mars in pioneering Aries forms a beneficial and motivating sextile to Saturn in forward-thinking Aquarius. Often, as we wind down the Moon?s cycle, we can feel a bit sad, depressed, or weary. Although we may be jaded or disillusioned by current events, the Mars Saturn combination ignites a spark of enthusiasm for picking up the pieces and beginning again. It can help us find the silver lining in the storm and understand how we can re-interpret obstacles and even tragedies into useful building blocks for the future. This energy awakens a sense of purpose, patience, and ambition. We welcome structure and discipline as useful tools to accomplish an objective. We are not discouraged by the idea of long-term projects that will require sustained effort and hard work. With Saturn in humanitarian Aquarius, the more idealistic and focused on shared interests, the better.?
This energy perks up our spirits and gives us an energetic head-start on the approaching New Moon. Take advantage of this auspicious energy by thinking about a goal near and dear to your heart. Cooperative efforts in which you can contribute your unique knowledge and skills are favored. Consider possible strategies and if you are feeling moved by the energy, outline your next steps. Better yet, dive in and act today. Mars in Aries is fuel and Saturn in Aquarius connects us to far-reaching ideals and helps us find the discipline and perseverance to achieve our most ambitious imaginings.? ?
The Moon is in verbal and intellectual Gemini today. At the end of the lunar cycle this Mercury-ruled Moon has learned many lessons about how to connect with others and communicate effectively. If we have been paying attention, we know how to discard the unnecessary and redundant and focus on the essentials. This is a good time to write important letters, e-mails, or texts, communicate clearly, learn something new through a book, talk, or podcast, and share knowledge and wisdom through mentoring and teaching.?
This evening the Moon aligns with both Mars and Saturn making this a great evening to discuss ideas or collaborate with others. A lunar square with Neptune later in the evening suggests alcohol and other mind-altering substances may not mix well with serious discussions. It can also reflect the difficulty in articulating abstract, philosophical, spiritual, and metaphysical ideas, and concepts through logical explanations.? Neptune is within hours of turning retrograde, and the Moon is void of course following its square to Neptune (7:38 pm PDT). Conversations may continue through the late evening, but don?t be discouraged if nothing much seems to be accomplished. ?
Daily Muse: Our greatest weakness lies in giving up. The most certain way to succeed is always to try just one more time? Many of life's failures are people who did not realize how close they were to success when they gave up. (Thomas Edison ? Mars sextile Saturn)
Tuesday
June 28, 2022
new moon 7? Cancer 7:52pm
MOON IN GEMINI CANCER
NEPTUNE MOVES RETROGRADE 12:55A
VOID OF COURSE MOON ENTERS CANCER AT 4:53A
Today?s cosmic forecast is impressionable and sensitive energy. It includes several notable events. The first is Neptune ? the planet of dreams and illusions standing still and beginning its annual retrograde pattern that will extend through December 3, 2022. Since Neptune is retrograde every year for about 40% of the time, we become somewhat acclimated to its inward journey, like the tides pulling in and out and the Moon moving through a predictable pattern of waxing and waning. Even so, just because it is routine doesn?t make it minor! It can be a very beneficial time for soul searching, doing shadow work, and accessing intuition and subconscious information. Although many of us will not recognize Neptune?s beginning retrograde as an individual energy, it does play a role in the very sensitive and emotional energy today. ?
The Moon enters its home sign of Cancer early this morning. This is an assertive cardinal sign and a very emotional, sensitive, and receptive water sign. Emotional expression is likely to be in high gear and very volatile and unpredictable today. It?s best to go with the flow and not try to control feelings, although we certainly can manage how we express them. We are in the last hours of the lunar cycle and Cancer puts us in a nostalgic mood. We bring up memories and consider our life stories. Even though Neptune is only hours into its retrograde, it may help us look objectively at our past ? recent and beyond ? without the need to judge or rewrite our experiences. Forgiveness is a better tool than demonizing or romanticizing the ?good old days?. The present moment is ours to use and shape.?
Energetically things start hopping this evening when the Sun and then the Moon square Jupiter in fearless and forceful Aries. It?s hard not to lean into the side of caution as exuberant Jupiter in a headstrong sign like Aries is going to feel rather overwhelming to our egos and emotions in protective and defensive Cancer. With the New Moon occurring less than two hours later, the conflict, excess, and lack of moderation indicative of the squares will be infused into the pattern of the New Moon cycle.?
Meanwhile In a different part of the galaxy, Venus in Gemini has no complaints; she is feeling the love of Jupiter in Aries in late evening. This fire fans the flames of passion and energizes loving thoughts and communications. So, what?s all the fuss about??
The many cosmic factors weighing in today suggest this will be a memorable and productive lunar cycle. The Jupiter squares to the Sun and Moon will no doubt increase the drama and Venus in alignment with the planet of expansion will boost the passion. The Mars sextile Saturn (yesterday) helps us tap into structure and patience, but it?s likely we will experience one or more false starts. Life is in flux and a New Moon in emotional Cancer underscores the changing nature of the times. Refuse to be discouraged as you look forward. Hold fast to your visions and your ideals. The plan has changed but we are up to the challenge. Be assertive, bold, and persevering.
Daily Muse: Champions keep playing until they get it right? No one changes the world who isn't obsessed. (Billie Jean King Sun square Jupiter)
Wednesday
June 29, 2022
MOON IN CANCER
After a high intensity Tuesday today we can kick back, or at least focus on activities that bring us back into mental and emotional balance. This is the day to find the sweet spot between caring for others and receiving care for ourselves. The Cancer Moon tends to strengthen family bonds and our attachment to home, safety, security and to the past. But as the iconic airline statement reminds us, ?Put on your own oxygen mask before assisting someone else.??
A lunar square to Chiron in Aries poses a twinge of guilt if we insist on prioritizing our needs and preferences, but the feeling is fleeting. Make sure it is. It?s imperative for our own physical, emotional, and mental wellbeing that we know and understand our boundaries and limits and what to do when we get out of balance. Recognize the signs and take action. Boundaries with strangers are easy for Cancer Moons but when it comes to family and loved ones, that?s a different story. Those connections are robust and heart strings are easy to pull and manipulate.?
In late afternoon, we are heeding the call to do something out of the ordinary when the Moon aligns with rebellious Uranus. We may not be ready to jump ship, but taking the night off, or planning a personal getaway is certainly not out of the question.? ?
Daily Muse: I dress in my 'uniform,' or my own dress code, which reflects my personal method and work ethic. My belief is that my plain T-shirt - I have about 40 of them - or blue sweater helps focus others' attention on me and on what I say. (Giorgio Armani ? Moon in Cancer)
Thursday
June 30, 2022
MOON IN CANCER/LEO
MOON GOES VOID OF COURSE 1:14P ENTERS LEO 5:40P
Wellness gurus are forever advising us how to live healthy and age gracefully, often with bullet points for how to start our morning. Take ten deep breaths, drink a glass of water, expose those eyeballs to sunshine, drink a cup of coffee, and take a walk. I have another one that is particularly important this morning ? connect with your higher self. We are going to need a stable and inspirational platform to launch into our day.?
The Cancer Moon aligns with spiritual Neptune in Pisces this morning. Start or reinforce a beneficial habit that helps you open to inspiration and self-awareness. Tap into your intuition by selecting a Tarot or oracle card, or perhaps select a crystal or stone and read about its meaning. Think about the first creature being you see, hear, smell, or touch this morning. Does it have a message for you? Read something inspirational. Meditate or write down your thoughts or images from your dreams.? Record in your Gratitude journal. What is your method for remembering you are a spiritual being on a human adventure? (Not the other way around.)?
Doing one or more of the above, or something similar can be a useful way of diving into the gifts of Neptune. Starting our day on a positive note will be helpful when the Moon squares Mars in willful Aries before noon and opposes Pluto in inflexible Capricorn two hours later. These mid-day struggles could have us reaching for the extra-strength pain reliever, a lunch cocktail, or thinking about bailing on our afternoon plans. We can expect some aggravation and frustration but it?s fleeting. Practice keeping your upset to a minimum. Watch your reactions to others and to situations from a place of neutral objectivity. If this isn?t possible, that is a useful lesson too.?
The atmosphere changes dramatically this evening when the Moon leaves sensitive Cancer for playful Leo. Eat dinner or snacks outside, go on a picnic, sit on the grass or sand ? if you are fortunate enough - and listen to music. Include children, or at least youthful energy, in your evening plans. Listen to children playing on a playground or splashing in a pool. Remember what it?s like to not feel the weight of the world on your shoulders.?
Daily Muse: Faith is not something to grasp, it is a state to grow into. (Mahatma Gandhi Moon in Leo)
Friday?
July 1, 2022
MOON IN LEO
CANADA DAY
The Moon in sunny Leo is ready to play today and is encouraged by a facilitating trine to Jupiter in spontaneous and youthful Aries. Mid-afternoon we?re looking for playmates or making evening plans as the Moon connects with Venus in chatty and willing Gemini. Despite these lighthearted and upbeat energies, we might be picking up on an approaching heaviness in the cosmos. This dark cloud has a name ? Mars square Pluto. It takes a few mental gymnastics to spin this to the positive, but we?re accepting the challenge.?
Mars is our personal drive and will and is currently in headstrong and impulsive Aries. His clash is with Pluto ? the planet of elimination, change, and transformation in determined Capricorn. Combine these two energies, especially in a conflicting square and we are likely to get fireworks aka significant power struggle. Ambition can quickly turn into compulsiveness and the desire to dominate and win at any cost. Courage becomes fearlessness, recklessness, and force. When we are passionate about something, we can become relentless in our pursuit.?
What?s missing is humility, vulnerability, compromise, and the willingness to listen to others. Although this combination can make a big splash, it?s not one that will likely be acceptable to others. If you are fired up about something, and who is not these days, do whatever possible to pace yourself. Although serious issues demand serious solutions, burning yourself out or alienating your would-be collaborators will diminish your possibility of a breakthrough. We may feel personally and collectively manipulated and dominated at this time. Try to recognize it as a useful step on the journey. Burning down the house is probably not the best way to clear out the clutter. But then again with Mars square Pluto, my ego doesn?t have the right answers either!
On a practical note, the atmosphere is likely to be combative, aggressive, and in some circumstances violent this evening. Plan accordingly. Expect confrontations and displays of frustration and anger ? many of which can be rationally justified. However, consider are we looking for justification or change? Channeling energy into solutions is more effective than simply expressing our frustrations.?
An upbeat and positive result of this energy is gaining greater clarity about what we want and why. It is like finding out the ways that don?t work point us in the direction of the ones that do. Negative emotions and conditions like anger, fear, disappointment, and setback can be used very constructively if we resist the urge to judge and simply recognize something as a mistake or not useful. If it works effectively, then good. If not, move on. Think about how benign and not triggering it is to think of something as simply not useful. It?s not good, bad, or ugly. It?s simply useful or not. Know your purpose and trust yourself.
Daily Muse: Rights are won only by those who make their voices heard?Hope will never be silent. (Harvey Milk ? Mars in Aries square Pluto in Cancer and loosely square Saturn in Capricorn)
?Saturday
July 2, 2022
MOON IN LEO
We have some back and forth going on today both mentally and emotionally. A pre-dawn trine between Mercury in Gemini and Saturn in Aquarius stimulates minds and ideas. We will probably wake up with a thousand ideas rumbling through our brains. We might find we have solved a problem or come to a decision as well. But wait, an early morning clash between the Moon in Leo and Uranus in Taurus feels disruptive and keeps us from settling into a pattern or choice. Not to mention, we are second guessing our decisions in mid-afternoon when Mercury squares retrograding Neptune. Did we think this through? Are we getting caught in a web of misinformation? Is the timing right? Did we miss something??
A feeling of being not sure, or somewhat off our game continues in early evening with the Moon opposing Saturn. This could be classic guilt associated with spending the day playing instead of being productive. We might have chosen an activity to please ourselves but now feel guilty about not doing something more worthy or important. I suspect we are being way to hard on ourselves. In fact, it?s time to reassess our responsibilities and obligations. If we can?t play on a Leo Moon, when can we??
Tonight?s lunar connection to Mercury extends evening conversations or games into night. Interactions can be lighthearted but if you want to go deeper, be my guest.
Daily Muse: The greatest weapon against stress is our ability to choose one thought over another. (William James ? Mercury in Capricorn sextile Uranus in Pisces)
?Sunday
July 3, 2022
MOON IN LEO/VIRGO
MOON GOES VOID 2:59 AM, ENTERS VIRGO 5:31 AM
An early morning alignment between the Moon in Leo and Mars in Aries is stimulating but may not result in much action with the Moon moving void of course immediately after touching base with Mars. However, listen to your feelings. If you wake up with a feeling you should be closing something out, walking away and jumping into something new, this is your intuition talking. If you are reticent to follow this advice, wait for additional signs to lead you. They are likely to come through today although they may show up as feelings of conflict or unrest in an area of your life or in a relationship.?
For many this is part of a three-day weekend leading up to the Fourth of July celebrations. Nevertheless, the Moon leaves Leo early this morning and finds herself in pragmatic Virgo. This is usually very productive work energy, but we can use it for a variety of purposes. If you have left-over work tasks that need to be completed, try to get an early start. This is also very useful energy for those go-getters who are planning and coordinating a potluck, barbecue, or holiday celebration with family and friends. There shouldn?t be too many complaints as people are happy to contribute a batch of potato salad or brownies. Virgo Moons like to be useful and can get behind organizing a social gathering.?
Mercury in Gemini is moving into a cranky connection to Pluto in Capricorn this evening. We may find it hard to combine our many thoughts into a cohesive and organized system. In our day this could show up as people voicing differing thoughts and opinions. Some we like, some we don?t agree with, and perhaps we agree with the ideas but not the conclusions, or the other way around. It?s a conundrum and might manifest as conflict and disagreements.?
Don?t look for or expect black and white situations, or simple answers to complicated issues. Before engaging in a heated argument or interaction, think through your objectives. If your goal is to relax and have some fun, engaging in a discussion may be counterproductive. However, you might have other purposes in mind including opening up to a different idea, swaying someone to your way of thinking or simply having the chance to express yourself. Be aware of your intentions and try to steer clear of superficial and meaningless conversations and struggles, unless of course your purpose is to engage in meaningless conversations and struggles. Lol.?
Daily Muse: Don't keep forever on the public road, going only where others have gone, and following one after the other like a flock of sheep. Leave the beaten track occasionally and dive into the woods. Every time you do so you will be certain to find something that you have never seen before. Of course, it will be a little thing, but do not ignore it. Follow it up, explore all around it; one discovery will lead to another, and before you know it you will have something worth thinking about to occupy your mind. All really big discoveries are the results of thought. (Alexander Graham Bell ? Moon in Virgo)
Monday June 27th through Sunday July 3rd?
Planets Changing Signs this Week: None. However, this is the last week for Mars in its home sign of Aries and Mercury in its home sign of Gemini. If you are loving the inspiration and energy, soak it up. Mars and Mercury both change signs ? Mars into Taurus and Mercury into Cancer ? on the Fourth of July.?
Retrograding Planets ? Neptune moves into its annual retrograde pattern early Tuesday morning. This pattern extends through December 3, 2022. As the planet of dreams and illusions, this period can take us deeper into personal reflection, shadow work, our creativity, and connecting with a spiritual philosophy or discipline. It can also be a time of increasing confusion as we struggle with altered states of consciousness ? some intentional, some not.?
Since Neptune is retrograde every year for about 40% of the time, we become somewhat acclimated to its inward journey, like the tides pulling in and out and the Moon moving through a predictable pattern of waxing and waning. With Neptune retrograde we can expect our intuition to be aroused. This is a time when false realities and illusions are unmasked. Harsh realities are likely to replace fantasy. Areas where we have been deceived, blinded, or misinformed will be revealed. Neptune retrograde can trigger old wounds, fears, phobias, and blind spots. It can also provide the motivation and awareness to work through and heal them.?
Rather than looking for an external culprit, recognize that retrograding Neptune can help us see where we are kidding ourselves. We may recognize behaviors of self-sacrifice, victimization, or escape that we are using as coping mechanisms. Now we can see more clearly whether they are useful and productive or self-sabotaging.?
Neptune?s and Pisces? association with water, alcohol, drugs, altered states of consciousness, spirituality, photography, and movies make these obvious choices for both increasing our intuition and awareness and understandable choices for abuse. Of course, there are others, too many to name! Anything used to excess becomes a vehicle for escape. Does this mean I shouldn?t binge watch two seasons of Resident Alien with pizza and a double batch of chocolate-chip cookies? It all depends on my purpose and motivation. One person?s creative process is another?s escape.?
During the retrograde period we can hone our psychic skills, increase our sensitivity and awareness by being objective observers of our thoughts, feelings, and behavior. If you are so inclined, notice your triggers and fears. What situations or feelings prompt you to grab your running shoes or car keys and run away, put on your headphones to escape interaction, or indulge in that second, third, or fourth alcoholic drink to dull your senses? As always, trying to identify and understand your purpose is the key.? This is a fabulous time to consciously tap into creativity and spiritual systems and disciplines for greater self-awareness and healing. But if that doesn?t work, try binging on Resident Alien. It will change your perspective and make you laugh.?
Saturn and Pluto continue their retrograde patterns this week.
Insights from the Moon ? The Moon is in Mercury-ruled Gemini on Monday which is the last full day of the current lunar cycle. But the usual melancholy may be conspicuously absent with Mars in Aries making a helpful sextile to Saturn in Aquarius. We may still be in a letting go mood, but we can?t help but be excited and energized by new possibilities. Life and conversations are animated and learning, and teaching are favored.
The New Moon at 7 Cancer occurs on Tuesday evening at 7:52 pm (PDT). The prelude includes both the Sun and Moon making conflictual squares to expansive Jupiter in Aries. These conflicts are likely to be very influential not only on Tuesday but throughout the 29-day lunar cycle. Despite Cancer?s nurturing and caretaking disposition, the independence and possibly selfish tensions created by the Jupiter squares will bring out the protective, defensive, and offensive postures of Cancer. This can be a used for good! Not only will we see the aggressive mama bear protecting her cubs, but we will also identify with our own inner child screaming for some attention. It?s time to prioritize ourselves and our needs, especially if we have been sidelining them in preference for taking care of others.?
The energy of this New Moon is highly emotional, dramatic, and changeable. As rogue waves beat against the shoreline, the sand is shifting. The ground beneath our feet is markedly in flux. Circumstances, priorities, and responsibilities are changing. We are not able to sit still, lest we find ourselves in a completely different world asking ourselves how we got here.? Like water and wind sculpt the contours of the environment, circumstances are changing the parameters of our lives.?
The New Moon cycle in Cancer buffeted by the winds of Jupiter and enlightened by Neptune?s retrograde is on target to be a memorable and productive time. Keep in mind too, we are also under the influence of the disciplined and energetic connection between Mars and Saturn that perfects on Monday. There are going to be some false and premature starts thanks to Jupiter, but don?t be discouraged. Hold fast to your visions and your ideals. The plan has changed but we are up to the challenge. Be assertive, bold, and persevering.?
On Wednesday and Thursday, the Moon continues her transit through Cancer. The focus will continue to be less on caretaking of others and more on striking a balance between giving and receiving. As individuals we continue to be motivated to step out of the shadows. Instead of being the wind beneath someone else?s wings, we want to pursue our own ambitions.?
On Friday the Moon enters playful Leo in time for the holiday weekend. It?s not all fun and games though, especially on Friday night when Mars squares Pluto in Capricorn. Personal self-expression is high on our list but the fight between Mars and Pluto makes us second guess our tactics. Mostly because they aren?t working!
The Leo Moon is trying to squeak out some play time and we?re likely to find it on Saturday afternoon. Although like Friday, second guessing ourselves seems to be flourishing with Mercury conflicting with Neptune and a lunar opposition to Saturn. On Sunday morning, we find a sense of achievement by getting back to basics with practical tasks. Finishing up a work assignment may be on the agenda with the Moon entering conscientious Virgo. Planning, and organizing holiday gatherings and generally pitching in keeps the Virgo Moon on an even keel.? ?
Until next week, let go and wear loose clothes.
Monday?
June 27, 2022
MOON IN GEMINI
MOON GOES VOID OF COURSE: 7:38PM
The last full day of the lunar cycle, (New Moon tomorrow evening) brings a timely and welcome gift. Mars in pioneering Aries forms a beneficial and motivating sextile to Saturn in forward-thinking Aquarius. Often, as we wind down the Moon?s cycle, we can feel a bit sad, depressed, or weary. Although we may be jaded or disillusioned by current events, the Mars Saturn combination ignites a spark of enthusiasm for picking up the pieces and beginning again. It can help us find the silver lining in the storm and understand how we can re-interpret obstacles and even tragedies into useful building blocks for the future. This energy awakens a sense of purpose, patience, and ambition. We welcome structure and discipline as useful tools to accomplish an objective. We are not discouraged by the idea of long-term projects that will require sustained effort and hard work. With Saturn in humanitarian Aquarius, the more idealistic and focused on shared interests, the better.?
This energy perks up our spirits and gives us an energetic head-start on the approaching New Moon. Take advantage of this auspicious energy by thinking about a goal near and dear to your heart. Cooperative efforts in which you can contribute your unique knowledge and skills are favored. Consider possible strategies and if you are feeling moved by the energy, outline your next steps. Better yet, dive in and act today. Mars in Aries is fuel and Saturn in Aquarius connects us to far-reaching ideals and helps us find the discipline and perseverance to achieve our most ambitious imaginings.? ?
The Moon is in verbal and intellectual Gemini today. At the end of the lunar cycle this Mercury-ruled Moon has learned many lessons about how to connect with others and communicate effectively. If we have been paying attention, we know how to discard the unnecessary and redundant and focus on the essentials. This is a good time to write important letters, e-mails, or texts, communicate clearly, learn something new through a book, talk, or podcast, and share knowledge and wisdom through mentoring and teaching.?
This evening the Moon aligns with both Mars and Saturn making this a great evening to discuss ideas or collaborate with others. A lunar square with Neptune later in the evening suggests alcohol and other mind-altering substances may not mix well with serious discussions. It can also reflect the difficulty in articulating abstract, philosophical, spiritual, and metaphysical ideas, and concepts through logical explanations.? Neptune is within hours of turning retrograde, and the Moon is void of course following its square to Neptune (7:38 pm PDT). Conversations may continue through the late evening, but don?t be discouraged if nothing much seems to be accomplished. ?
Daily Muse: Our greatest weakness lies in giving up. The most certain way to succeed is always to try just one more time? Many of life's failures are people who did not realize how close they were to success when they gave up. (Thomas Edison ? Mars sextile Saturn)
Tuesday
June 28, 2022
new moon 7? Cancer 7:52pm
MOON IN GEMINI CANCER
NEPTUNE MOVES RETROGRADE 12:55A
VOID OF COURSE MOON ENTERS CANCER AT 4:53A
Today?s cosmic forecast is impressionable and sensitive energy. It includes several notable events. The first is Neptune ? the planet of dreams and illusions standing still and beginning its annual retrograde pattern that will extend through December 3, 2022. Since Neptune is retrograde every year for about 40% of the time, we become somewhat acclimated to its inward journey, like the tides pulling in and out and the Moon moving through a predictable pattern of waxing and waning. Even so, just because it is routine doesn?t make it minor! It can be a very beneficial time for soul searching, doing shadow work, and accessing intuition and subconscious information. Although many of us will not recognize Neptune?s beginning retrograde as an individual energy, it does play a role in the very sensitive and emotional energy today. ?
The Moon enters its home sign of Cancer early this morning. This is an assertive cardinal sign and a very emotional, sensitive, and receptive water sign. Emotional expression is likely to be in high gear and very volatile and unpredictable today. It?s best to go with the flow and not try to control feelings, although we certainly can manage how we express them. We are in the last hours of the lunar cycle and Cancer puts us in a nostalgic mood. We bring up memories and consider our life stories. Even though Neptune is only hours into its retrograde, it may help us look objectively at our past ? recent and beyond ? without the need to judge or rewrite our experiences. Forgiveness is a better tool than demonizing or romanticizing the ?good old days?. The present moment is ours to use and shape.?
Energetically things start hopping this evening when the Sun and then the Moon square Jupiter in fearless and forceful Aries. It?s hard not to lean into the side of caution as exuberant Jupiter in a headstrong sign like Aries is going to feel rather overwhelming to our egos and emotions in protective and defensive Cancer. With the New Moon occurring less than two hours later, the conflict, excess, and lack of moderation indicative of the squares will be infused into the pattern of the New Moon cycle.?
Meanwhile In a different part of the galaxy, Venus in Gemini has no complaints; she is feeling the love of Jupiter in Aries in late evening. This fire fans the flames of passion and energizes loving thoughts and communications. So, what?s all the fuss about??
The many cosmic factors weighing in today suggest this will be a memorable and productive lunar cycle. The Jupiter squares to the Sun and Moon will no doubt increase the drama and Venus in alignment with the planet of expansion will boost the passion. The Mars sextile Saturn (yesterday) helps us tap into structure and patience, but it?s likely we will experience one or more false starts. Life is in flux and a New Moon in emotional Cancer underscores the changing nature of the times. Refuse to be discouraged as you look forward. Hold fast to your visions and your ideals. The plan has changed but we are up to the challenge. Be assertive, bold, and persevering.
Daily Muse: Champions keep playing until they get it right? No one changes the world who isn't obsessed. (Billie Jean King Sun square Jupiter)
Wednesday
June 29, 2022
MOON IN CANCER
After a high intensity Tuesday today we can kick back, or at least focus on activities that bring us back into mental and emotional balance. This is the day to find the sweet spot between caring for others and receiving care for ourselves. The Cancer Moon tends to strengthen family bonds and our attachment to home, safety, security and to the past. But as the iconic airline statement reminds us, ?Put on your own oxygen mask before assisting someone else.??
A lunar square to Chiron in Aries poses a twinge of guilt if we insist on prioritizing our needs and preferences, but the feeling is fleeting. Make sure it is. It?s imperative for our own physical, emotional, and mental wellbeing that we know and understand our boundaries and limits and what to do when we get out of balance. Recognize the signs and take action. Boundaries with strangers are easy for Cancer Moons but when it comes to family and loved ones, that?s a different story. Those connections are robust and heart strings are easy to pull and manipulate.?
In late afternoon, we are heeding the call to do something out of the ordinary when the Moon aligns with rebellious Uranus. We may not be ready to jump ship, but taking the night off, or planning a personal getaway is certainly not out of the question.? ?
Daily Muse: I dress in my 'uniform,' or my own dress code, which reflects my personal method and work ethic. My belief is that my plain T-shirt - I have about 40 of them - or blue sweater helps focus others' attention on me and on what I say. (Giorgio Armani ? Moon in Cancer)
Thursday
June 30, 2022
MOON IN CANCER/LEO
MOON GOES VOID OF COURSE 1:14P ENTERS LEO 5:40P
Wellness gurus are forever advising us how to live healthy and age gracefully, often with bullet points for how to start our morning. Take ten deep breaths, drink a glass of water, expose those eyeballs to sunshine, drink a cup of coffee, and take a walk. I have another one that is particularly important this morning ? connect with your higher self. We are going to need a stable and inspirational platform to launch into our day.?
The Cancer Moon aligns with spiritual Neptune in Pisces this morning. Start or reinforce a beneficial habit that helps you open to inspiration and self-awareness. Tap into your intuition by selecting a Tarot or oracle card, or perhaps select a crystal or stone and read about its meaning. Think about the first creature being you see, hear, smell, or touch this morning. Does it have a message for you? Read something inspirational. Meditate or write down your thoughts or images from your dreams.? Record in your Gratitude journal. What is your method for remembering you are a spiritual being on a human adventure? (Not the other way around.)?
Doing one or more of the above, or something similar can be a useful way of diving into the gifts of Neptune. Starting our day on a positive note will be helpful when the Moon squares Mars in willful Aries before noon and opposes Pluto in inflexible Capricorn two hours later. These mid-day struggles could have us reaching for the extra-strength pain reliever, a lunch cocktail, or thinking about bailing on our afternoon plans. We can expect some aggravation and frustration but it?s fleeting. Practice keeping your upset to a minimum. Watch your reactions to others and to situations from a place of neutral objectivity. If this isn?t possible, that is a useful lesson too.?
The atmosphere changes dramatically this evening when the Moon leaves sensitive Cancer for playful Leo. Eat dinner or snacks outside, go on a picnic, sit on the grass or sand ? if you are fortunate enough - and listen to music. Include children, or at least youthful energy, in your evening plans. Listen to children playing on a playground or splashing in a pool. Remember what it?s like to not feel the weight of the world on your shoulders.?
Daily Muse: Faith is not something to grasp, it is a state to grow into. (Mahatma Gandhi Moon in Leo)
Friday?
July 1, 2022
MOON IN LEO
CANADA DAY
The Moon in sunny Leo is ready to play today and is encouraged by a facilitating trine to Jupiter in spontaneous and youthful Aries. Mid-afternoon we?re looking for playmates or making evening plans as the Moon connects with Venus in chatty and willing Gemini. Despite these lighthearted and upbeat energies, we might be picking up on an approaching heaviness in the cosmos. This dark cloud has a name ? Mars square Pluto. It takes a few mental gymnastics to spin this to the positive, but we?re accepting the challenge.?
Mars is our personal drive and will and is currently in headstrong and impulsive Aries. His clash is with Pluto ? the planet of elimination, change, and transformation in determined Capricorn. Combine these two energies, especially in a conflicting square and we are likely to get fireworks aka significant power struggle. Ambition can quickly turn into compulsiveness and the desire to dominate and win at any cost. Courage becomes fearlessness, recklessness, and force. When we are passionate about something, we can become relentless in our pursuit.?
What?s missing is humility, vulnerability, compromise, and the willingness to listen to others. Although this combination can make a big splash, it?s not one that will likely be acceptable to others. If you are fired up about something, and who is not these days, do whatever possible to pace yourself. Although serious issues demand serious solutions, burning yourself out or alienating your would-be collaborators will diminish your possibility of a breakthrough. We may feel personally and collectively manipulated and dominated at this time. Try to recognize it as a useful step on the journey. Burning down the house is probably not the best way to clear out the clutter. But then again with Mars square Pluto, my ego doesn?t have the right answers either!
On a practical note, the atmosphere is likely to be combative, aggressive, and in some circumstances violent this evening. Plan accordingly. Expect confrontations and displays of frustration and anger ? many of which can be rationally justified. However, consider are we looking for justification or change? Channeling energy into solutions is more effective than simply expressing our frustrations.?
An upbeat and positive result of this energy is gaining greater clarity about what we want and why. It is like finding out the ways that don?t work point us in the direction of the ones that do. Negative emotions and conditions like anger, fear, disappointment, and setback can be used very constructively if we resist the urge to judge and simply recognize something as a mistake or not useful. If it works effectively, then good. If not, move on. Think about how benign and not triggering it is to think of something as simply not useful. It?s not good, bad, or ugly. It?s simply useful or not. Know your purpose and trust yourself.
Daily Muse: Rights are won only by those who make their voices heard?Hope will never be silent. (Harvey Milk ? Mars in Aries square Pluto in Cancer and loosely square Saturn in Capricorn)
?Saturday
July 2, 2022
MOON IN LEO
We have some back and forth going on today both mentally and emotionally. A pre-dawn trine between Mercury in Gemini and Saturn in Aquarius stimulates minds and ideas. We will probably wake up with a thousand ideas rumbling through our brains. We might find we have solved a problem or come to a decision as well. But wait, an early morning clash between the Moon in Leo and Uranus in Taurus feels disruptive and keeps us from settling into a pattern or choice. Not to mention, we are second guessing our decisions in mid-afternoon when Mercury squares retrograding Neptune. Did we think this through? Are we getting caught in a web of misinformation? Is the timing right? Did we miss something??
A feeling of being not sure, or somewhat off our game continues in early evening with the Moon opposing Saturn. This could be classic guilt associated with spending the day playing instead of being productive. We might have chosen an activity to please ourselves but now feel guilty about not doing something more worthy or important. I suspect we are being way to hard on ourselves. In fact, it?s time to reassess our responsibilities and obligations. If we can?t play on a Leo Moon, when can we??
Tonight?s lunar connection to Mercury extends evening conversations or games into night. Interactions can be lighthearted but if you want to go deeper, be my guest.
Daily Muse: The greatest weapon against stress is our ability to choose one thought over another. (William James ? Mercury in Capricorn sextile Uranus in Pisces)
?Sunday
July 3, 2022
MOON IN LEO/VIRGO
MOON GOES VOID 2:59 AM, ENTERS VIRGO 5:31 AM
An early morning alignment between the Moon in Leo and Mars in Aries is stimulating but may not result in much action with the Moon moving void of course immediately after touching base with Mars. However, listen to your feelings. If you wake up with a feeling you should be closing something out, walking away and jumping into something new, this is your intuition talking. If you are reticent to follow this advice, wait for additional signs to lead you. They are likely to come through today although they may show up as feelings of conflict or unrest in an area of your life or in a relationship.?
For many this is part of a three-day weekend leading up to the Fourth of July celebrations. Nevertheless, the Moon leaves Leo early this morning and finds herself in pragmatic Virgo. This is usually very productive work energy, but we can use it for a variety of purposes. If you have left-over work tasks that need to be completed, try to get an early start. This is also very useful energy for those go-getters who are planning and coordinating a potluck, barbecue, or holiday celebration with family and friends. There shouldn?t be too many complaints as people are happy to contribute a batch of potato salad or brownies. Virgo Moons like to be useful and can get behind organizing a social gathering.?
Mercury in Gemini is moving into a cranky connection to Pluto in Capricorn this evening. We may find it hard to combine our many thoughts into a cohesive and organized system. In our day this could show up as people voicing differing thoughts and opinions. Some we like, some we don?t agree with, and perhaps we agree with the ideas but not the conclusions, or the other way around. It?s a conundrum and might manifest as conflict and disagreements.?
Don?t look for or expect black and white situations, or simple answers to complicated issues. Before engaging in a heated argument or interaction, think through your objectives. If your goal is to relax and have some fun, engaging in a discussion may be counterproductive. However, you might have other purposes in mind including opening up to a different idea, swaying someone to your way of thinking or simply having the chance to express yourself. Be aware of your intentions and try to steer clear of superficial and meaningless conversations and struggles, unless of course your purpose is to engage in meaningless conversations and struggles. Lol.?
Daily Muse: Don't keep forever on the public road, going only where others have gone, and following one after the other like a flock of sheep. Leave the beaten track occasionally and dive into the woods. Every time you do so you will be certain to find something that you have never seen before. Of course, it will be a little thing, but do not ignore it. Follow it up, explore all around it; one discovery will lead to another, and before you know it you will have something worth thinking about to occupy your mind. All really big discoveries are the results of thought. (Alexander Graham Bell ? Moon in Virgo)