Mercury Retrograde: A Different Perspective

Mercury Retrograde 

A Different Perspective 

Mercury Retrograde (Pisces)

March 5th, 2019  10:19 am 

Natural Chart  Whole Houses 

What is Mercury Retrograde ?

Mercury Retrograde is a term that you have probably heard before but aren't sure exactly what it means. During periods of retrograde, a planet appears to move backwards from its normal trek around the sun. Those areas of life governed by the planet tend to suffer setbacks and breakdowns. There are many retrograde including Mars Retrograde, Venus Retrograde, Jupiter Retrograde, in fact all the planets turn retrograde at some point. However, Mercury Retrograde is arguably the one you hear about most often. 

Mercury is believed to rule communication and travel and so during a Mercury-Retrograde it is common for breakdowns in communication and interruption of travel plans to occur. People become short-tempered, computers break down, get viruses, cars and other vehicles may breakdown, flat tires may occur, communication slows or grinds to a halt, etc.....

How Do I Protect Myself During Mercury Retrograde?

There are many ways that people protect, or shield, themselves from the affects of Mercury Retrograde. I will divide them into two main categories. They are Mundane and Spiritual. 

Mundane Methods 

• Environment- This area includes your home, car, and workplace….any place where you spend a great deal of time. The first thing you should do is physically clean these areas and remove any clutter to facilitate the free flow of energy. Part of de-cluttering also means finishing any projects or putting them away until after MR (if they are not time-sensitive) This may also be a great time to re-arrange your living space. After the area is physically clean, it should then be spiritually cleansed and any protections you have in place should be renewed.  In addition to cleaning and de-cluttering, your car should be taken to your local parts-place to have your battery, fluid-levels and tire air-pressure checked and corrected if needed. Don’t forget to check your spare tire as well! Many business such as Auto-Zone or any Walmart that has a tire center will do these simple checks free of charge. If you have an emergency road kit, then any missing or previously used items should be replaced; if you do not have an emergency road kit, then this would be a great time to assemble one. Computers fall under the category of environment as many people spend a great deal of time on them in their daily lives. The same procedures for your home and car are true for your computer as well. Dump old files, de-frag your computer, back up your data, and make sure that your virus protection is up to date. And I cannot talk about real-time environments without bringing up social media environments. Being prepared for MR online includes removing yourself from any groups in which you do not participate, pruning your friends list, and reviewing your privacy settings. 

• Relationships- Failure to communicate effectively is a hallmark of MR. How much of this is MR and how much of this is just people using MR as an excuse to be rude and abrasive is debatable. Pre-Mercury Retrograde, however, is your opportunity to examine and heal your relationships or resolve issues old issues so they do not fester. If there is a friend, family member, or loved one that you’ve been meaning to call, write, or speak to then now is the time to reach out to them. If there are issues in your relationships now is the time to address them so that you don’t carry anything negative into MR with you. Forgive and forget so that you can move on. It is especially important that you say what you mean and mean what you say (which is a general good rule of thumb in any case) and don’t assume that people understand the truth intent and meaning behind your words. The reverse is also true, don’t assume that you know the intent and meaning behind the words of others. If there is any doubt, ask. 

• Self- Last but not least, now is the time to exercise some self-care. This includes examining your physical and mental state and addressing any issues that need attention. If your mind and / or body has been under a great deal of stress, then you need to reduce stress and develop coping mechanisms. Strive for more balance between work, play, and rest. Finally, undergoing a spiritual cleansing to remove any astral or emotional muck so that you do not carry it with you into MR is also a good idea. 

Spiritual Methods 

Below you will find a list of magical means to combat Mercury Retrograde. This is, by far, not a comprehensive list and not every remedy will work for every person. For this reason you are encouraged to start with those remedies that most appeal to you and use them in your own personal life to rate their effectiveness. 

• Light a candle to Ganesha (remover of obstacles) and offer him incense and milk on the day that Mercury turns retrograde to smooth the way for an unencumbered path for you in the weeks ahead. When Mercury turns direct again, you may wish to light another candle to Ganesha. If you do not have a relationship with Ganesha or are uncomfortable working with him, you may use a Road Opener candle instead. 
• Dress yourself with Van Van Oil each morning during MR and pray the 23rd Psalm (The Lord is my shepherd…) Van Van Oil is a type of road opener oil that is known for blessing people and objects, as well as turning bad luck to good. It contains lemongrass which is an herb associated with the planet Mercury. 
• Carry a rabbit’s foot in your pocket and place a dish of salt on your windowsill. 
• Wear something silver such as a ring or bracelet (you can even place a silver mercury dime in your right shoe). 
• Combine lemongrass, sage, and mint in their dried forms and place a pinch of this in the four corners of a room to fix it to mitigate the effects of MR.
• Strategically place hematite, fluorite, and clear quartz near your computer to protect it from being affected by MR. 
• Place a small mojo bag containing comfrey root and wormwood in your car for protection during travel and to prevent accidents. You may also wish to add a silver mercury dime and dress this with Van Van Oil. 
• Each of the seven classical planets (Sun, Moon, Mars, Mercury, Jupiter, Venus, and Saturn) are associated with a Kamea, or magic square, and a seal. While the Kamea puts forces in motion that are associated with said planet, the Seal is said to bring them to a halt. Therefore by carrying the Seal of Mercury (which is incorporated into the design above) you can prevent the energies of MR from affecting you. This seal may be drawn on paper and tucked in your pocket, included in a mojo bag or doll baby, etched on a candle, or if you have the ability it may be engraved on a silver mercury dime. It should be remembered, however, that the seal stops all of the energies associated with a planet...the good and the bad and the seal should be put away and not used once Mercury turns direct or you’ll deny yourself the positive effects of Mercury.
• Examine your natural chart to see what natal house Mercury Retrograde is transiting in order to understand how mercury retrograde will affect you in an individual level. 

A Different Perspective on Mercury Retrograde 

Having said all of the above, I would like to offer you a different perspective. Imagine, if you will, that Mercury is a swimmer on the cosmic seas. Typically, he swims with the celestial currents but once in a while he gets turned around and starts swimming against the current. He uses more of his energy or personal power, he tires more quickly, he becomes lost or confused. 

Instead of protecting yourself from Mercury Retrograde, let me suggest that you use your time and energy to feed and strengthen him.  How might we do this? Below are just a few suggestions. 

• We know from our use of astral candles that Mercury's colors are yellow and green. Therefore, burn yellow or green candles upon which you have etched the symbol for Mercury and which has been dressed with Mercury Planetary Oil.  Optional: Sprinkle High John Root powder on the candle for strength and endurance. 
• You can surround the candle with herbs and crystal which vibrate in harmony with Mercury, such as caraway, dill, clover, lavender, marjoram, and peppermint. Crystals include opal, agate, carnelian, and aventurine. When the candle is spent, you can keep these herbs / crystal in your environment. 
• If you desire you can erect a temporary altar to Mercury and place on it those colors in harmony with mercury, it's crystals, gems, and stones; it's herbs and other things ruled over by Mercury such as books (especially biographical, occult, dictionaries, or law books), print advertisements, cars (use a toy), birds, contracts, deeds, handwriting, keys,  money, telephones (use a cell phone). 
• Incorporate yellow and green into your clothing. If not with your clothing, then with your accessories.
• Wear Mercury Planetary Oil. Burn Mercury Planetary Incense. Bathe in Mercury Planetary Bath Crystals. 

You must keep in mind, that the energy you are feeding the planet is coming from the herbs, the crystals, and the candles, etc..  -- you are only directing that energy with your thoughts and attention and not giving Mercury your own energy. However, you are setting up a reciprocal relationship with Mercury wherein you feed him energy and, in turn, things will go more smoothly for you. 

Carolina Dean 

Venus in Aquarius

Venus in Aquarius 

Venus enters Aquarius 

3/01/2019    8:45 AM 

Natural Chart / Whole Signs 

Venus (I Love) 

In a chart, Venus indicates what you are attracted to and what you attract to yourself.  Venus rules Libra and Taurus; is in detriment in Aries and Scorpio, is exalted in Pisces, and falls in Virgo. 

Keywords: adaptable, harmony, affectionate, artistic, beauty, attraction, charm, connection, femininity, glamour, intimacy, love, pleasure, seduction, social ease and vanity. 

Aquarius (I Know) 

Aquarius represents the archetype of eccentric, the visionary, and the rebel or outlaw. It is an Air / Mutable / Masculine (Active) Sign.  It is ruled by Uranus. 

Keywords: altruistic, detached, rebellious, unconventional, erratic, inventive, groups, imaginative, original, impersonal, and futuristic. 

Venus in Aquarius (General) 

When Venus is in Aquarius, people are generally happier, more romantic, friendly, and have sudden and unexpected experiences in love. Venus in Aquarius often manifests as a certain open-mindedness regarding love and romance. You may find yourself attracted to people who really stand out as individuals and who are comfortable with their own uniqueness. 

You may find yourself entering into unusual relationships or be attracted to someone who is against your type. Nonetheless, you still have to connect with the person on an intellectual level. Such relationships may begin and end quickly. However, there is a tendency to remain friends when the relationship is no longer of a romantic or sexual nature. 

How Venus in Aquarius Affects You  

A planet, such as Venus, describes a specific type of energy. In the case of the Venus it is the energy of love. The sign that it occupies indicates how that energy manifests. The Sun, the energy of self, in Aquarius will manifest in a friendly, romantic, and happy manner.  Finally the house that the planet transits will determine where this energy will manifest in your life. 

In order to determine the house that the Sun in Pisces is transiting you look at your birth chart and determine what house aligns with Pisces. For example. 

• If your rising sign is Aries, Aquarius is your 11th House 
• If your rising sign is Taurus, Aquarius is your 10th House 
• If your rising sign is Gemini, Aquarius is your 9th House 
• If your rising sign is Cancer, Aquarius is your  8th House
• If your rising sign is Leo, Aquarius is your 7th House
• If your rising sign is Virgo, Aquarius is your 6th House
• If your rising sign is Libra, Aquarius is your  5th House 
• If your rising sign is Scorpio, Aquarius is your 4th House 
• If your rising sign is Sagittarius, Aquarius is your 3rd House 
• If your rising sign is Capricorn, Aquarius is your 2nd House 
• If your rising sign is Aquarius, Aquarius is your 1st House
• If your rising sign is Pisces, Aquarius is your 12th House 

Example 

Transit Venus in Aquarius and the 4th House 

Venus (I Love) in Aquarius (I Know) in the 4th house of home and family can manifest as friendly, happy, and romantic feelings in the area of home, family, and your immediate environment or neighborhood. You feel good about your home and family right now. You are feeling more romantic and nostalgic. You may find yourself improving the aesthetic of your personal environment to make it more pleasing and comfortable to you. 

In matters of romance, it is possible that you meet a romantic partner through a family member, someone who lives in your own neighborhood (the proverbial girl / boy next door), or someone who works with homes in some way such as a construction worker, interior designer, painter, etc... Loyalty is of paramount importance and you're looking for someone who will be loyal to you and who will instill feelings of safety and security in you. 

Carolina Dean 

Links & Sources 

• Free Natal Chart 
• The Rulership Book 
• Keywords for Astrology 

The Astrology of March 2019

The Astrology of March 2019 

All Times Pacific 

• 3/01/19 Venus enters Aquarius at 8:45 am 
• 3/05/19 Mercury Retrograde in Pisces at 10:19 am 
• 3/06/19 Uranus enters Taurus at 12:26 am
• 3/07/19 New Moon in Aries at 8:03 am 
• 3/14/19 Waxing Moon in Cancer at 3:27 am 
• 3/20/19 Full Moon in Libra at 6:42 pm 
• 3/20/19 Sun Enters Aries at 2:58 pm 
• 3/26/19 Venus enters Pisces at 12:43 pm 
• 3/27/19 Waning Moon in Capricorn at 9:09 pm 
• 3/28/19 Mercury Direct in Pisces at 6:59 AM 
• 3/31/19 Mars enters Gemini at 2:12 am 

Best Days March 2019 

The Best Days was a feature in many old almanacs and gave the optimal times for performing such tasks as weaning a baby, pulling teeth, or planting by the signs. Here I have taken this concept and applied it to the folk magic tradition of Hoodoo and given the best days for various magical endeavors. They are: 

• Love & Romance 2-4, 12-17, 20, 21, 29-31 
• Crown of Success 1-4, 8-13, 18, 19, 27-31 
• Sex & Sexuality 16, 17, 20-23 
• Cleansing 8-11, 14, 15, 18, 19 
• Hotfooting 5-7, 22, 23 
• Unblocking 7, 24-26

Carolina Dean 

March Horoscopes

March 2019 Horoscopes 

by Carolina Dean 

• Aries- You are driven to have more security and, for you, that means having more money. The more money you have the more secure you feel. You are patient and determined to get what you want, even if it takes a long time; and you have the energy and ambition to pour into your work. With the moon making a soft aspect to your ruling planet you have the courage to take the initiative in any situation and will intuitively know what you need to do. 
• Taurus- You’re feeling more optimistic this month. With your ruler making a soft aspect to Mercury you are more fun loving, friendly and social. You’re more liberated and being more self-reliant gives you a greater sense of purpose and self-confidence. You’re motivated to explore new ways of living and thinking. You want to be free and have fun. It is possible that you meet someone who shares your newfound sense of liberation and optimism to spend good times with as long as they don’t hold you back. 
• Gemini- With Mercury, the ruler of your sign, retrograde for the majority of this month in detriment in the watery sign of Pisces you can get caught up in your feelings. You may find communicating with others more difficult and you get frustrated when you cannot adequately express yourself. This may be a good time to seclude yourself away from others and spend some time researching topics and interests you and focus on transforming and improving your mind. 
• Cancer- You’re more in touch with your feelings regarding your relationships and you are more likely to talk about those feelings. The Moon making a soft aspect to Saturn adds a sense of seriousness to your emotions that can lead to some emotional distance to your partner. Now is a good time to have a conversation with your partner so you can talk over and begin to heal any issues that you may be having with one another. 
• Leo- You may be feeling a little frustrated now. You want to shake things up and inject more change into your life. The Sun makes a soft aspect to Neptune clouding your perceptions and you are more sensitive to the thoughts and opinions of others. Your emotions tend more towards extremes and you spend more time alone contemplating the changes that you wish to make. Setting clear and reasonable boundaries will go a long way towards finding and maintaining peace right now. 
• Virgo- Mercury is making a soft aspect to the Ascendant quickening your thoughts and making you more alert and talkative. You are more apt to keep your conversations limited to smaller, more intimate settings preferring to speak with others on a one-one-one basis rather than with groups of people. You have a lot of thoughts and ideas and need someone you can share them with in order to get a greater sense of perspective regarding them. This is is a good time to renegotiate any contacts (verbal or written) with others that need to be and addressed. 
• Libra- Love is on your mind and you’re feeling more romantic than ever. With Venus making a soft aspect to Pluto, the need for love and affection is increased and you have a strong urge to experience a deeply committed relationship. Other people notice you more than usual now and your energy attracts more attention and interest. A family member could introduce you to a new romantic interest and you have an easier time dealing with (usually) difficult relatives. 
• Scorpio- With Mars, the ruler of your sign, making a trine to Saturn you have the drive and tenacity to tackle difficult tasks this month. Now is a good time to follow through on anything that you are passionate about and this month you are all about commitment. This mainly takes the form of your personal and professional relationships. You want more commitment in your life and you are willing to make the compromises necessary to have such dedication. 
• Sagittarius- Jupiter, the ruler of your sign, transiting Sagittarius in the first house provides you with a strong optimistic outlook on life. You are feeling good about life and your place it in at this time. However, with Jupiter making a hard aspect to Neptune, this might not be the best time to be overly optimistic. While you are feeling open and trusting of others, you also open yourself up to being the victim of deception of others. If something, or someone, seems to good to be true -- they probably are. 
• Capricorn- You’re more of a realist this month and see yourself as you are rather than how you wish you were. With Saturn making a soft aspect to Pluto this is a time for hard work and a more serious outlook on life. Patience and persistence are called for now. This is a good time to work on your confidence and shy away from any form of self-denial in terms of self-assessment. If you put in the work, by the end of the month you’ll be feeling like a much stronger individual. 
• Aquarius- You’re exploring your own inner realms this month and dealing with your personal baggage. Now is a time to learn to let go of any deep seeded inhibitions of sense of shame you may be harboring about yourself. This is a time for facing your subconscious and devoting some time to being more introspective. With Saturn making a soft aspect to Neptune, you understand your own constraints and limitations but you’ll adopt an optimistic attitude. 
• Pisces- You can expect to have more recognition for your work this month. You feel good about what you do and your work is valued by your superiors. With Jupiter making a hard aspect to Mercury you are filled with a sense of hope and optimism about the future. Be careful how you express yourself this month, however, and try not to get over-confident or you can pay the price. Maintain the course and you can achieve a long sought after goal.

On the Use of Astral Candles

On the Use of Astral Candles 

Astral (N.) - of, connected to, or resembling the stars. 

Also known as Zodiac Candles, Astral Candles are candles whose color vibrates in harmony with the 12 signs of the zodiac. Each sign has a primary color based on it's ruling planet and a secondary color based on it's element (fire, earth, air, or water). They may be any size or shape from tea lights all the way up to glass encased novenas as well as all the permutations in between such as human figure candles, 7 knob candles, etc... 

Astral Candles are used in folk magic candle spells to represent either one's self or another person in the operation of such spells and rituals. It is believed that by use of these astral colors in your candle spell you can tune into the individual's unique energy by virtual of their birth, or sun, sign. The astral colors of the twelve signs of the zodiac are as follows: 

      

Alternative Colors 

In some instances, astral color may also be defined as a color that predominates a specific person's life and defines them in some way. For example, if you were to perform a spell on Lucille Ball, you might use a red candle because she is known for her red hair.  The singer Alecia Moore, otherwise known as Pink may be represented by a pink candle. The actor Callum Blue may be represented by a blue candle 

Alternately, take the case of Elizabeth Sweetheart aka The Green Lady of Brooklyn who is known for not only her green hair but also her green clothes and the fact that she surrounds herself with green objects. In such a case, you might use a green candle to represent her in a spell. These are just a few example of alternative astral colors based on a person's name, personality, etc...

Preparing Your Candle 

Once you have chosen your candle and an appropriate color you can further personalize the candle by carving the individual's name and zodiac sign on the candle. You may even carve their exact date of birth on the candle as well. In addition, you can also dress, or anoint, the candle with a specially formulated Zodiac Oil or Planetary Oil.  There are oils for each of the 12 signs of the zodiac as well as the 10 Planets which are comprised of oils, herbs, etc.. that vibrate in harmony with each sign.  

A Practical Example 

Let us suppose that you are having a difficult time with your boss. You may feel disrespected by him or her, they are dismissive of your thoughts and ideas and are unappreciative of your work. 

You learn that your boss's birthday is 5/8/87. Referring to the chart above you see that they are a Taurus. You might take a Green Candle and carve their name and birth date upon the candle as in the example at right. Next, you might want to dress the candle with either Taurus Oil, Venus Oil (the ruler of Taurus) or both.  

You place the candle in a holder and place a photo, business card, or other personal concern of your boss under the candle and / or your specific wish written down on a piece of paper. 

Finally, you light the candle calling their name. Then you address the candle as if it were your boss. You calmly but firmly state your feelings and demand that your boss treat you with respect and to value your work. When you are done, you leave the candle to burn. 

If you would like to take this a step further, you can take a candle that represents yourself using your sun sign astral color. Carve your name and birth date on your own candle. Dress your candle with the appropriate Zodiac or Planetary Oil.  

Set your own candle up next to your boss' candle. In this instance you would place your candle on top of a box or some other safe object so that it is positioned higher than your boss' candle. Symbolically you are taking the high road or seizing the high ground (i.e. taking a dominant or superior position). Light your own candle and speak to it as if you were addressing your own spirit. Ask your candle to give you strength, confidence, and the ability to successfully complete your assigned tasks in a timely manner. 

Other Considerations 

In addition to the suggestions described above there are other factors you may consider in the working of your spells and ritual. Some include, but are not limited to the following: 

• the phase of the moon 
• the moon's place in the zodiac 
• the day of the week 
• the time of the day or night 
• the use of herbs

These are subjects which will be covered in future blog posts. As these posts are written I will update this entry with links to those articles. 

Carolina Dean 

Sources

• The Master Book of Candle Burning, Henri Gamache 
• The Magic Candle, Charmaine Dey 
• The Rulership Book, Rex E. Bills 

Image Source

• Row of Novena Candles - original image created by the author 
• Green Candle - original image created by the author. 

Full Moon in Virgo

Full Moon in Virgo 

2/19/19  7:54 AM (Pacific) 

Natural Chart / Whole Houses 

A Full Moon occurs when the Sun and Moon occupy the same degree of opposite signs of the zodiac.  As you can see from the chart above, the Moon is at zero degrees Virgo and the Sun is 180 degrees away at zero degrees Pisces forming an opposition. This creates a dynamic of the Sun and Moon challenging one another; something is being split, divided.  

The Big Picture 

Virgo is an Earth / Mutable / Passive sign ruled by Mercury.  Virgo represents the archetype of the healer, the servant, and the analyst to name a few.  Generally speaking, Virgos are detail-oriented, humble, critical, practical, perfectionist who wish to be of service to others. 

Pisces is a Water / Mutable / Passive sign ruled by Neptune. They represent the archetype of the mystic, the dreamer, and the visionary. Pisces people are generally thought to be introverted, romantic, mystical, withdrawn, creative, isolated, and artistic. 

With the Moon in Virgo forming an opposition to the Sun in Pisces we have the dynamic of my need to be of service to others at odds with my need to withdraw into self. During this time you may feel pulled in opposite directions. You may feel that someone is pressuring you to do something that is not of primary importance to you and you feel like there isn't anything you can do about the situation. 

This is a pattern we can see play out on a large scale by watching the news, paying attention to what is going on on social media and in the lives of our family and friends; or on a small scale by examining our own natal charts to see where the Full Moon is taking place. 

The Personal Touch 

To understand how the Full Moon in Virgo affects us an individuals we need to see where 0 degrees Virgo is in our own natal charts.  For example, zero degrees Virgo in my natal chart is on the cusp of the 11th House, which is known as the area of our chart associated with ideals and goals.  Across from the 11th house at 180 degrees is the 5th house which rules over our creativity and self expression. 

To better understand this dynamic, we might want to create a mind-map like so. 

MOON IN VIRGO        VS.            SUN IN PISCES 

of service to others                    withdraw into self 

detail oriented                           vague & undefined 

reality                                        imagination 

5TH HOUSE                VS.             11TH HOUSE 

creativity and                           wishes / goals 

self expression                         friends and associates

When looked at this way, we can see that (for me) my desire to use my creativity and self expression to be of service to others will be in conflict with my desire to withdraw into myself to focus on my personal wishes and goals. Since I recently decided to take a break from my Rootwork practice and am still being approached by others for products and services this is entirely feasible. In fact, this blog itself is my attempt to use my creativity to be of service to others by sharing my knowledge and experience with astrology to inform and teach others. Since the Full Moon is also associated with endings and completion, the full moon transiting my 11th house could signal the end of a friendship or the completion of a goal. 

Finally, it is always a good idea to look at the aspects, or relationships, between the Full Moon and other planets in your natal chart. An examination of my own chart reveals that the Full Moon is making a sextile to my natal Venus which indicates that any conflicts can be soften and relationships in general may improve. This aspect could help mitigate whatever occurs to contribute to the end of a friendship or relationship indicated by the Full Moon in the 11th House. Alternately, it can indicate a break from a friendship rather than it's completion or end. 

Where does zero degrees Virgo fall in your chart and how will the Full Moon in Virgo manifest for you?

Carolina Dean 

• Free Natal Chart 
• Full Moon Astrology

Sun in Pisces

Sun in Pisces 

Sun in Pisces

2/18/19 3:04 PM (Pacific) 

Natural Chart / Whole Signs 

The Sun (I AM) 

In a chart, the Sun indicates where you shine. It represents your own ego as well as your approach to self expression and how you realize your self. The Sun rules Leo; is in detriment in Aquarius; exaltation in Aries; and fall in Libra.

Keywords: authority, confidence, creativity, power, ego, father, hope, vitality, potential, dignity, joy, generosity, extravagance, pride, individuality, recognition. 

Pisces (I Believe) 

Pisces is a Water / Mutable / Passive (Feminine) sign ruled by Neptune and subruled* by Jupiter. 

Keywords: sensitive, dreamer, escapist, isolated, introverted, shy, psychic, romantic, vague, artistic, and creative. 

The Sun in Pisces (General) 

Pisces is the 12th and last sign of the zodiac, so when the Sun enters Pisces it signals the end of one cycle and the coming beginning of a new cycle ---when the Sun enters Aries. I feel that the ingress of the Sun in Pisces heralds an emotional spring cleaning that precedes the physical one that traditionally occurs in our environment after the Sun enters Aries in late March. 

Our interest turns to things of the spirit and our attention turns inward. We become focused on subconscious issues and immerse ourselves in dealing with our emotional baggage. The Sun in Pisces shines the light on the desire to seek out the truth and to be satisfied with what is found in the darkest corners of our psyches. You may find yourself listening more to your intuition as well as paying more attention to your dreams for signs and omens. Your sensitivity to these subtle energies results in heightened empathy and you exercise more compassion not only in dealing with yourself but also those around you. 

How the Sun in Pisces Affects You

A planet, such as the Sun, describes a specific type of energy. In the case of the Sun it is the energy of self or ego. The sign that it occupies indicates how that energy manifests. The Sun, the energy of self, in Pisces will manifest as vague, romantic, and intuitive. Finally the house that the planet transits will determine where this energy will manifest in your life. 

In order to determine the house that the Sun in Pisces is transiting you look at your birth chart and determine what house aligns with Pisces. For example. 

• If your rising sign is Aries, Pisces is your 12th House  
• If your rising sign is Taurus, Pisces is your 11th House 
• If your rising sign is Gemini, Pisces is your 10th House
• If your rising sign is Cancer, Pisces is your 9th House 
• If your rising sign is Leo, Pisces is your 8th House
• If your rising sign is Virgo, Pisces is your 7th House
• If your rising sign is Libra, Pisces is your 6th House 
• If your rising sign is Scorpio, Pisces is your 5th House 
• If your rising sign is Sagittarius, Pisces is your 4th House
• If your rising sign is Capricorn, Pisces is your 3rd House 
• If your rising sign is Aquarius, Pisces is your 2nd House 
• If your rising sign is Pisces, Pisces is your 1st House

Example

Transit Sun in Pisces and the Natal 5th House 

The Sun (I AM) in Pisces (I BELIEVE) and the 5th House of love, children, and creativity can manifest as vague, romantic feelings about love and romance. The Sun is happiest in the 5th house because this house is ruled by Leo which is also ruled by the Sun. You want to believe that love is possible. You want to believe that you are loved and loving but you have some emotional baggage and / or subconscious blocks that you must confront before you can really enjoy yourself. 

On the flip side, you might try to socialize more and surround yourself with people in order to attract more attention to yourself in order to avoid confronting and healing your subconscious issues.  Alternately, you may also take up a new hobby as a distraction from your issues. If you have a history with addiction, such as gambling, you might want to be careful not to fall off the wagon. 

Where is Pisces in your Natal Chart and how will the Sun in Pisces manifest for you?  

Carolina Dean 

Links & Sources 

• Free Natal Chart 
• The Rulership Book 
• Keywords for Astrology 

*Jupiter ruled Pisces before the discovery of Neptune. Today Neptune is believed to rule Pisces with Jupiter it's sub or co-ruler. 

Mars in Taurus

Mars in Taurus 

2/14/19 @ 2:51 AM 

Whole Sign Houses 

Mars (I act) 

In a chart, Mars indicates your drive and energy. It rules Aries, is in detriment in Libra, exalted in Capricorn and fall in Cancer. 

Keywords: action, aggression, lust, anger, assertiveness, masculinity, passion, energy, strength, conquest, drive, impatience, willpower, sex, sexuality, desire, courage, restlessness and vigor. 

Taurus (I Have) 

Taurus is an Earth / Fixed / Passive (Feminine) sign Ruled by Venus. 

Keywords: patient, consistency, predictable, steady, materialistic, passive, dependable, comfort, value, sensual, and laid back.    

Mars in Taurus (General) 

With Mars in Taurus you are driven to have more comfort and security. The urge to make money and increase your personal possessions is strengthened. Patient and determined you aren't afraid to work hard to get what you want. Rather than taking risks, however, you are more apt to take the more traditional, tried and true route to success and achievement --- even if it takes years.  

Money is important to you and having it makes you feel secure. The more money and things of value you have the more secure you feel.  You may have a tendency to spend too much money on materialistic things when Mars is in Taurus so its important that you refrain from overspending and be careful of engaging in retail therapy just to feel better. 

In terms of love, Mars in Taurus grants an appreciation for both stability and strength and so you may find yourself attracted to, our aroused by, anyone or anything that can provide you with such stability.  You may find your sexual powers are more potent and you have more stamina than usual. Your appetite for the finer things in life in terms of appeasing the senses (food, sex, etc.. ) is heightened and so you should caution yourself from over-indulging and to exercise moderation in all things. 

How Mars in Taurus Affects You

A planet, such as Mars, describes a specific type of energy. In the case of Mars it is the energy of action. The sign that it occupies indicates how that energy manifests. Mars, the energy of action, in Taurus will manifest slow and patient but with a sense of determination.  Finally the house that the planet transits will determine where this energy will manifest in your life. 

In order to determine the house that Mars in Taurus is transiting you look at your birth chart and determine what house aligns with Taurus. For example. 

• If your rising sign is Aries, Taurus is your 2nd House. 
• If your rising sign is Taurus, Taurus is your 1st House. 
• If your rising sign is Gemini, Taurus is your 12th House. 
• If your rising sign is Cancer, Taurus is your 11th House. 
• If your rising sign is Leo, Taurus is your 10th House. 
• If your rising sign is Virgo, Taurus is your 9th House. 
• If your rising sign is Libra, Taurus is your 8th House. 
• If your rising sign is Scorpio, Taurus is your 7th House. 
• If your rising sign is Sagittarius, Taurus is your 6th House. 
• If your rising sign is Capricorn, Taurus is your 5th House. 
• If your rising sign is Aquarius, Taurus is your 4th House. 
• If your rising sign is Pisces, Taurus is your 3rd House. 

For Example

Mars (I act) in Taurus (I have) and the 7th House (Relationships) - The seventh house is ruled by Libra (I balance) in the natural chart. With Mars in Taurus and the 7th house you are driven to compromise and have more balance in your relationships (business and personal).  You show more diplomacy,  patience,  and understanding when dealing with others and are committed to standing by those you are close to for the long haul. You understand that you have to give a little to get a little and you are willing to make compromises so long as you receive something of value in return.  

Where does Taurus fall in your chart and how will Mars in Taurus manifest for you?

Carolina Dean 

Link

Free Natal Chart 

Mercury in Pisces

Mercury in Pisces 

Mercury enters Pisces

2/10/19  2:51 AM  (Pacific)

Natural Chart / Whole Houses

Mercury (I Think) 

In a chart, Mercury represents how you process and exchange information.  Mercury rules Gemini / Virgo, is in detriment in Sagittarius / Pisces, exalted in Aquarius, and fall in Leo. 

Keywords: expression, communication, eloquence, flexible, information, intellect, knowledge, learning, logic, messenger, mindful, thoughtful, speech, transportation, movement, clever. 

Pisces (I Believe) 

Pisces is Water / Mutable / Passive (Feminine) sign ruled by Neptune and subruled* by Jupiter. 

Keywords: sensitive, dreamer, escapist, isolated, introverted, shy, psychic, romantic, vague, artistic, and creative. 

Mercury in Pisces (General) 

Mercury is said to be in detriment in Pisces. A planet is in detriment when a planet is in the sign opposite of it's rulership. Mercury rules Virgo (and Gemini) and Pisces is six signs away (or opposite) Virgo. Detriment is a term that describes the condition of a planet in a sign. When a planet is in detriment it means that a planet is cut off from it's resources and will have to adapt in order to reach it's full potential. The keyword for detriment is diminished. 

Mercury is the planet of the mind. It is all about logic, our thinking, and communication. Pisces, being a water-sign, is emotionally based, dreamy, and intuitive.  So when Mercury is in Pisces, our thoughts are at odds with our emotions. You may feel caught up in your feelings. Communication proves to be more difficult. You can be more sensitive at this time and and find yourself being ruled by your emotions. You may also find yourself in danger of emotional outburst in which you blurt our your feelings without stopping to consider what you are saying. 

The upside to Mercury in Pisces is that you can use this energy to get in touch your with your feelings and emotions. Your imagination is enhanced and you can be more creative and artsy at this time. This is also a good time to practice and refine your intuitive faculties. If you are interested in any metaphysical subjects such as Astrology and Tarot, this is a good time to start learning. 

How Mercury in Pisces Affect You 

A planet, such as Mercury, describes a specific type of energy. In the case of Mercury it is the energy of thought or thinking. The sign that it occupies indicates how that energy manifests. Mercury, the energy of thought, in Pisces will manifest as vague, romantic, and intuitive. Finally the house that the planet transits will determine where this energy will manifest in your life. 

In order to determine the house that Mercury in Pisces is transiting you look at your birth chart and determine what house aligns with Pisces. For example. 

• If your rising sign is Aries, Pisces is your 12th House. 
• If your rising sign is Taurus, Pisces is your 11th House. 
• If your rising sign is Gemini, Pisces is your 10th House. 
• If your rising sign is Cancer, Pisces is your 9th House. 
• If your rising sign is Leo, Pisces is your 8th House. 
• If your rising sign is Virgo, Pisces is your 7th House. 
• If your rising sign is Libra, Pisces is your 6th House. 
• If your rising sign is Scorpio, Pisces is your 5th House. 
• If your rising sign is Sagittarius, Pisces is your 4th House. 
• If your rising sign is Capricorn, Pisces is your 3rd House. 
• If your rising sign is Aquarius, Pisces is your 2nd House. 
• If your rising sign is Pisces, Pisces is your 1st House. 

Example 

Transit Mercury in Pisces and the Fifth House 

Mercury (I Think) in Pisces (I Believe) and the 5th house of love, children, and creativity manifests as vague, romantic thoughts regarding love and romance. The mind can become clouded by feelings of love and romance with this placement making the native susceptible to deception by others, especially those that he or she cares about. You are more sensitive and have trouble defining not only your feelings but the feelings and emotions of those around you. 

Nonetheless, the fifth house rules creativity (including our hobbies) and with Mercury transiting the fifth house you can more easily attune yourself to your own sense of creativity. Your hobbies bring your more satisfaction, you (re)discover yourself as an artist and visionary. You are more social and want to have more fun. The fifth house also rules over children -- if you are a parent conversations with your children can be deeper and more loving.  In terms of love, Mercury transiting the fifth house can portend meeting a romantic interest through the internet (mercury rules communication) and that he or she could either be younger than you (in age) or simply young at heart.

Where is Pisces in your chart and how will Mercury in Pisces manifest for you? 

Carolina Dean 

Links & Sources 

• Free Natal Chart 
• The Rulership Book 
• Keywords for Astrology 

*Jupiter ruled Pisces before the discovery of Neptune. Today Neptune is believed to rule Pisces with Jupiter it's sub or co-ruler. 

The Astrology Of Love

The Astrology Of Love 

With Valentine’s Day upon us, our thoughts turn to love and now is a time to examine our relationships -- our relationships to others and our relationship with ourselves. 

If you are single, you may wish to meditate upon how you feel about not having a partner. Are you happy? Unhappy? Do you want a lover, or is your life complete just as it is? If you are in a relationship, you may want to set aside some time to really think about how you feel about your partner. Does your partner bring you joy? Are you happy with the state of your relationship or could it be improved? If not, is this relationship worth saving or is it time to move on?

Love begins with the self. How can you expect to be loved by another, if you cannot love yourself? By examining our Natal Chart, with emphasis on Venus (the planet of Love) we can begin to understand how we love, how we are perceived and what we need to feel loved. 

Venus & Dignity

Essential Dignity is a term used in Astrology to describe a type of relationship each planet has to specific signs. The power of a planet can be enhanced, empowered, diminished, or blocked depending on the essential dignity of the sign it occupies in a chart. There are four types of dignities. They are:

• Exaltation- When a planet is in exaltation, it has the benefit of being enhanced by the sign it occupies and which fully supports its own. Keyword: Enhanced
• Rulership- When a planet is in the sign of it’s rulership, it feels at home and is free to act. Keyword: Empowered
• Detriment- When a planet is in the sign which is the opposite (six signs away) of its rulership, it is far from home and cut off from its resources. The planet needs to adapt in order to fulfill its potential. Keyword: Diminished
• Fall- When a planet is in the sign which is the opposite (six signs away) of its exaltation, it must find alternate resources to reach its potential. Keyword: Blocked

Essential Dignity of Venus

• Exaltation- Venus is enhanced in Pisces
• Rulership- Venus is empowered in Taurus / Libra
• Detriment- Venus is diminished in Virgo  
• Fall- Venus is blocked in Aries / Scorpio

So the first thing you want to do is determine what sign Venus occupies in your natal chart and determine if it is in Exaltation, Rulership, Detriment, or Fall (if any) and this will give you an idea of what you have to work with insofar as how you express and seek out love in your life.

Venus in the Signs (How We Love) 

• Aries- You are a fiery, assertive lover. 
• Taurus- You are a patient and determined lover
• Gemini- You are a curious and open-minded lover. 
• Cancer- You are a caring and emphatic lover. 
• Leo- You are a loyal and affectionate lover. 
• Virgo- You are an attentive and meticulous lover. 
• Libra- You are a flirty and considerate lover. 
• Scorpio- You are a passionate and intense lover. 
• Sagittarius- You are an impatient and outgoing lover. 
• Capricorn- You are a brooding and disciplined lover. 
• Aquarius- You are an spontaneous and imaginative lover. 
• Pisces- You are a shy and sensitive lover. 

Your Rising Sign (How we are perceived) 

• Aries- who comes across as headstrong 
• Taurus- who comes across as dependable 
• Gemini- who comes across as flighty 
• Cancer- who comes across as romantic 
• Leo- who comes across as confident 
• Virgo- who comes across as humble 
• Libra- who comes across as a people-pleaser 
• Scorpio- who comes across as magnetic 
• Sagittarius- who comes across as flippant 
• Capricorn- who comes across as respectful 
• Aquarius- who comes across as erratic 
• Pisces- who comes across as introverted 

Venus in the Houses (What We Need ) 

1. And who needs a partner that motivates you. 
2. And who needs a partner that reassures you. 
3. And who needs a partner that listens to you. 
4. And who needs a partner that supports you. 
5. And who needs a partner that cherishes you. 
6. And who needs a partner that comforts you. 
7. And who needs a partner that balances you. 
8. And who needs a partner that understands you. 
9. And who needs a partner that inspires you. 
10. And who needs a partner that fortifies you. 
11. And who needs a partner that stimulates you. 
12. And who needs a partner that unburdens you. 

Example

Let us say that you have Scorpio Rising with Venus in Scorpio and the first house.  Venus is said to be in detriment in Scorpio which would mean that Venus is diminished in your chart. You are going to have to adapt in order to reach the full promise of Venus.

Venus rules love and relationships and Scorpio represents the archetype of the researcher or investigator. So with Venus in Scorpio you want to dive in deep and get to know everything about your lover. Both intimacy and depth are of paramount important to you and love is taken very seriously. While Venus seeks out harmony, Scorpio is about bringing harsh truths to light and so power struggles can ensue.

With Venus in Scorpio, you are an intense and passionate lover. You come across as sexy and magnetic (Scorpio rising) and you need a lover who is fiery, passionate and aggressive that motivates you (1st house). As a Venus in Scorpio person you want to fully possess and control your lover (mostly likely through sex) however, you tend to attract or be attracted to lovers who are stubborn and hardheaded who resist being controlled.

Conclusion 

While this is somewhat of an oversimplification this simple formula can act as a stepping stone for us to define ourselves as loving and sexual beings. A deeper examination of the natal chart with emphasis on the 5th (love) and 7th (relationships) houses as well as aspects to Venus can expand our awareness ourselves, how we express love, how we receive love, and when / how we can expect love to manifest in our lives. 

Carolina Dean