Balance denotes the benefits of keeping the use of your energies justifiably proportioned between your pursuits. The symbol Yin and Yang is used to represent the balance. Yin and Yang is possibly the most elegant and sometimes elusive definition of Balance there is. While Balance is rarely if ever perfect, being far out of Balance means that while one part of you may be thriving tremendously, another part of your life may be wilting.
As a daily card, Balance indicates a need to find and maintain a level physical and spiritual state. It suggest you may be concentrating your energy on one or a few things so much that you are neglecting other important aspects of your life. While this is often necessary to make immediate gains it can lead to missing out on the diverse richness of life in the long term.
Adjustment denotes an inner power, mastery of will and development of inner might. Through mastering one’s emotions and learning from both success and failure the person Adjustment represents has reached a place where they are influential without applying physical force, able to weather the roughest of storms, and not likely to abandon the less fortunate. Adjustment also denotes a large capacity for forgiveness and compassion. Adjustment is not as much about winning as it is about achieving balance, overcoming hardship, and using well crafted persuasion to gain allies. Adjustment suggests the need and ability to make our decisions based on objective perceptions of events, and good or bad, accepting responsibility for our actions.
This powerful hexagram which in its most literal sense means “heaven” supporting the “earth” is an indication of peace and favorable times. This is a sign of prosperity, plenty and success. Heaven and the Earth are in spiritual contact at this time, and a harmony exists between them. Positive energy overwhelms and it is the responsibility of all to use and channel that energy wisely and for good.
Changes in Line 1
“When Grass is Uprooted, Other Plants Follow”
A change in this line at the base of the hexagram of Peace reminds us that forces that affect one person, also affect surrounding people. Another way of saying this is: “A rising tide lifts all ships”. In times of prosperity, there are many paths to success.
Changes in Line 2
“Tolerate the Uncultured”
In times of prosperity it is important to show tolerance both to those who have not shared in success, or to those who use their success in uncultured ways. The message in this changing line is that rubbing shoulders with all types while demeaning no one, is a path to even greater success and enlightenment.
Changes in Line 3
“All Plains are Followed by Slopes”
This changing line near the middle of the hexagram is a reminder that even in times of prosperity, one must remember to be conscious of change. All good things come to an end. What is in one’s nature is far more important than the trappings of success, for one’s nature goes with one at all times.
Changes in Line 4
“Not Boasting of Wealth”
This changing line offers a stern warning to those who would advertise their own success. Those who boast may be reminded harshly that it was luck which made them successful. At this time immodesty is fraught with peril. The wise person treats all people equally. Such actions lead to greater successes at this time.
Changes in Line 5
“The King’s Daughter is Married”
All happiness, success and celebrations are laced with complimentary issues of loss, sadness and heartbreak. It is important to remember that all that is celebrated is a matter of good fortune, and not something to be expected or deserved. One who treats success as if it “should” happen will be reminded that sometimes it does not.
Changes in Line 6
“The Castle Wall Tumbles to the Moat”
This changing line at the top of the hexagram suggests that a time of peace and prosperity may be coming to an end. That which was depended upon, is now leaving rapidly. As peace and prosperity disappear, make note of who and what is truly important. A time of unfortunate changes is at hand. Security is threatened and that which seemed stable is now imbalanced.
A note on iFate’s I Ching translation: This is not a direct translation of the original “Book of Changes” from 1000 BC. While multiple translations of the original text are available, they include many archaic references and can be difficult to understand for 21st century readers. iFate uses our own modern rewritings (two different editions) of the “Book of Changes” which makes interpreting I Ching readings far simpler. For iFate’s additional contemporary re-writing of the original text, see our “Love I Ching” translation.
Tiwaz is the Warrior Rune. It represents pure, masculine power and the ability to successfully fight to meet your goals. However, you must be careful that costs of attaining your goals overshadow their values.
The Present Situation You will Find Yourself In Ingwaz
Ingwaz signifies completion, success and fertility. Your present ambitions are about to be met. You are fecund in both mind and body.
The Future Which Holds Get Potential of Being Revealed Naudhiz
Naudhiz reversed may tell of needs met and harmonious relationships. Your passions for someone or something may be at their pinnacle.
This reading represents strengths you were born with and will surface this week.
The Hierophant
The Hierophant represents the protector of a culture’s heritage and traditions. His purpose is to defend and teach the established ways and beliefs a group embraces. He is inherently conventional and a true believer in the power of the group. He loves the structure of the group and its values. It is the task of The Hierophant to bring new members into the group—to prepare the uninitiated to take their rightful place in his culture. In this sense he is very much like a teacher or a priest. He also acts as the repository of his group’s history. The Hierophant is certainly not one to buck proper authority. However, he is staunch and worthy defender of the tried and true. He represents the positive aspects of conformity.
When The Emperor is among your personal cards, the influence of The Hierophant may be increased. Having The Fool or The Lovers in your personal cards may diminish the influence of The Hierophant.
The Magus
The Magus is the physical embodiment of decisive action based upon knowledge and aimed squarely at specific goals. While firmly set in the material world, he none-the-less has a powerful spiritual connection as well. His knowledge, wisdom and skill are all encompassing. He is complete. His power as a creator is unmatched on our earthly plane. He is self-aware and unafraid to act. His enormous strength gives him the freedom to act as he chooses. However, responsibility comes with that freedom. Because he is not bound to the restraints of others he must choose how to act. The question that always lies before him is should he act morally, or forsake ethics for personal gain.
When The Chariot is among your personal cards, the influence of The Magus may be increased. Having The Empress or Hanged Man in your personal cards may diminish the influence of The Magus.
For the week of July 25, I chose the Ace of Swords!
This is a week of mental clarity, new ideas and important break-throughs. You may see things from a new perspective or you may find that new opportunities are coming your way, seemingly out of nowhere.
Be ready to take note of these new ideas as they emerge. They will be coming thick and fast, so don’t miss them!
Support the process by eating well, avoiding alcohol and caffeine and giving your body and mind the best chance possible to allow these new ideas and thoughts to flow freely and without interruption.
Ask yourself, “What new ideas and break-throughs are coming into conscious awareness right now?”
We can’t help but notice our own shortcomings now — personally and collectively — as cerebral Mercury and sensual Venus form aspects with Chiron the Wounded Healer. Although we might attempt to fix anything that falls short of our expectations, it’s healthier to look inward and heal ourselves rather than jumping onto the next political bandwagon. Meanwhile, the stabilizing Taurus Moon appears to do its job of holding the universe together.
Aries Horoscope MAR 21 – APR 19
You’re passionate about helping your friends any way you can today. You might go out of your way to nurse someone who isn’t feeling well or attempt to solve a problem for a colleague. However, you must be careful about asserting yourself so vehemently that your behavior seems aggressive without you realizing it. Nevertheless, you can play the role of the Good Samaritan as long as you are sensitive to the needs of others. Be sure that your assistance is wanted before you choose to get involved. Poet T.S. Eliot wrote, “Most of the evil in this world is done by people with good intentions.”
Taurus Horoscope APR 20 – MAY 20
You could set yourself up for disappointment today by expecting your friends to come to your rescue. It may seem obvious, but your chances of receiving the support you seek are negligible unless you actually ask for help. However, you might make the mistake of assuming that others know you so well that you don’t have to say a word; they should just intuitively sense what you need. It’s a shame when the things that are on your mind and in your heart never reach your lips. Psychic connections can be real, but it’s unfair to blame anyone else if you don’t try to bridge the gulf yourself.
Gemini Horoscope MAY 21 – JUN 20
Your words have the power to heal today, but they also have the power to hurt as communicator Mercury forms a stressful aspect to vulnerable Chiron. The difference between a positive message and a negative one has less to do with the words you use than it does with your attitude. Although your thoughts are often restless, you can be as steady as a rock now when it comes to setting the agenda for the day. Others rely on you more than you realize when roads are rough and the journey uncertain.
Cancer Horoscope JUN 21 – JUL 22
Your listening skills are legendary; it’s as if you can find meaning from the momentary silences between the words. The more attentive you are now, the more information you derive from what’s not being said. Thankfully, your psychic powers are especially strong today as long as you know when to be quiet and simply observe the energy of others. Remember, you don’t have to fill up all the empty spaces with noisy chatter. All you need to do is show up with an open heart; your emotional receptivity allows the universe to do the rest.
Leo Horoscope JUL 23 – AUG 22
You might choose to make a big deal about how much you support someone’s great idea. However, you’re likely to be more judgmental now that the Moon and Venus are locked into an uncomfortable square. Rather than trying to undo a pattern in another person’s life, observe your reactions without doing anything drastic yet. Fortunately, you gain strength as the day progresses and you will outgrow your need to fix anyone’s problems. Instead, shift your focus back to your own life by finding the determination and energy to make your dreams come true.
Virgo Horoscope AUG 23 – SEP 22
You’re not completely upfront with your feelings today. You know that there is more going on behind your polite smile than you care to share with anyone. Paradoxically, the less you say, the more people understand you. Some thoughts don’t fit into the regular flow of conversation and forcing the subject can do more harm than good. Pick your discussion topics carefully and save the others for a rainy day. In the meantime, keeping the emotional drama to a minimum makes everyone happier now.
Libra Horoscope SEP 23 – OCT 22
You may feel a bit confused at work today, making it difficult to set goals and put a long-term plan into action. Even if you are clear about which direction you’re heading now, you might wonder if you’ll ever achieve success when it comes to your worldly ambitions. Fortunately, as you work on resolving your own issues of self-esteem, you can positively impact others with your willingness to grow and change. Surprisingly, healing yourself turns out to be contagious if you set an example for others to follow.
Scorpio Horoscope OCT 23 – NOV 21
Sometimes your creativity flows naturally, but you may experience a mental block when trying to express yourself today. One way to get the energy moving again is to shake up your routine. Approaching your work from an entirely different angle could be the catalyst you need in order to get back in a groove of productivity. Nevertheless, your desire for consistency grows throughout the day and you might choose to return to an earlier method once you’ve recaptured your sense of spontaneity. Exploring all your options opens your eyes to possibilities you never imagined.
Sagittarius Horoscope NOV 22 – DEC 21
Childhood memories could seem so real today that they strangely influence the present moment. You may remember a time when you felt misunderstood or rejected by your family. Although you can’t go back and change the past, you can use these recollections to fuel your relationship dynamics now. Instead of approaching an emotional confrontation with a sense of dread, access your compassion to help others resolve their personal pain. It is said that all healing is essentially a release from fear. The light of love conquers the darkness.
Capricorn Horoscope DEC 22 – JAN 19
You might have suffered as a youngster because of communication struggles within your family. Even as an adult, you may still contend with issues around cultivating emotional connections with those you love. Although a current misunderstanding could stimulate a cascade of memories, you have a chance to elevate your self-esteem and let go of any old patterns that continue to hold you back. You can’t change what has already happened, so focus on the future instead of replaying your past. Author Robert Green Ingersoll said, “Hope is the only bee that makes honey without flowers.”
Aquarius Horoscope JAN 20 – FEB 18
Although you appear quite animated in your interactions with others today, your spirited style might actually be camouflaging a painful issue. Emotional wounds from your childhood may still do a number on your sense of self-worth. Paradoxically, acknowledging your insecurities is a strength rather than a weakness. Sharing your process of self-discovery and healing can inspire others more than you realize. Poet Khalil Gibran wrote, “Out of suffering have emerged the strongest souls.”
Pisces Horoscope FEB 19 – MAR 20
Your drive to become a healer in your own right may be motivated by remembering experiences of rejection. Learning how to assimilate your personal history into your current circumstances is a continuing source of emotional growth. Taking a risk within a relationship now might seem like a daunting task, but you possess a strength of conviction that enables you to tell the story about your wound in a way that helps others. Remember, past failures are often the openings into your best and most beautiful parts if you’re willing to explore your vulnerability.
You have a lot of interest in, and insight into, people and relationship dynamics. You seem to be at your best in one-on-one situations and could be successful in counseling or psychology fields. You love company, and for some of you, this can lead to rushing into partnerships. You tend to choose a youthful and playful partner, sometimes attracting immature people into your experience. You are very practical and quietly ambitious. Security is extremely important to you, and you may be fearful or resistant to big changes. You are very good at debate and more often than not win arguments! Others are drawn to you as a natural leader. Famous people born today: George Bernard Shaw, Carl Jung, Aldous Huxley, Stanley Kubrick, Jason Robards, Mick Jagger, Kevin Spacey, Sandra Bullock, Kate Beckinsale.
Your Birthday Year Forecast:
Your birthday occurs around a Third Quarter Moon this year, and you are reaching an important turning point regarding personal growth. You may be more emotional this year, and should watch for unnecessary conflicts and for making hasty decisions as a result. Pride can get you into some trouble if not kept in check. Otherwise, this is a year of greater understanding and a strong desire to take care of business. This should be a busy, dynamic period in your life.
This is a good year for creating and discovering, and if you can work at your own pace, you’ll be in good shape. Otherwise, you may feel constrained by routines. You prefer to make your own decisions. Original thinking is at a nice peak and can lead to rewarding projects. Communication and learning new things both flow well.
This can be a good time for updating your electronics and technology in ways that open up new avenues for communication or ease. Wonderfully creative ideas can fill your head this year. You are able to find new insight into old problems, and your thinking processes during this period are likely to be especially original. A subject or even a person can be especially inspiring, prompting you to explore new perspectives. New or improved friendships are very likely.
The year is strong for physical therapy and healing, as well as for having a real sense of mission.
You aim to be very diplomatic when dealing with others this year. You tend to achieve much through cooperation, and your insight can be a true asset in your dealings with others. You often have a way with words this year, and verbalizing your feelings can be enjoyable. You can handle people well, and negotiations are favored in general. This can be a good year for dabbling in the arts, furthering a creative hobby or craft, and exploring new artistic interests.
There may be an on again, off again relationship in love or friendship during this period, or there can be complicated feelings experienced in a key relationship.
Your unique manner of expressing and asserting yourself is in focus and appreciated this year. Suppressed anger is more effectively released in creative ways. Physical healing can help inner healing, and vice versa.
You have both vitality and realism on your side this year, maximizing your chances of success. Progress can be slow but steady. You are unusually resilient. You stand out as particularly personable and talented, but also reliable and trustworthy. This is a strong year for enjoying new ideas and interests, and for connecting with others through these things.
2016 is a Number Six year for you. Ruled by Venus. This is a year of relative contentment. It is a time when love is the easiest to attract, and partnerships formed under this vibration have a better chance for longevity. You are able to attract others, and material things as well, this year. This is a good year for establishing harmony in the family and in the home. Advice – develop existing relationships, be positive and receptive because these kinds of energies help you to attract what you desire.
2017 will be a Number Seven year for you. Ruled by Neptune. This is a year of preparation, chance, and refinement. It is not a time of dramatic changes. Instead, it’s a year when reflection on the past is helpful, and when refinements to your life path should be made. It’s a good year to study and analyze. Unexpected twists to your life story and “chance” meetings are probable. Advice – take stock of your life in order to prepare for more exciting years to come, examine the past and plan for the future, get in touch with your deepest needs and uncover your personal power, don’t strain yourself or actively try to expand.
It’s your birthday, Leo, and you want the world to know it! That’s right; you’re not ashamed to admit that you want to feel like the center of attention on your special day. Hey, you deserve it. After all, you spend plenty of time making others feel exceptional, so why not get some of that ego boosting goodness delivered right back atcha? Either way, you’re ready to party into the night and enjoy every drop of birthday goodness.
Pride of the Lion
Indeed, no other sign exudes love, warmth and joy the way you do, Leo. You’ve got a talent for simply being in anyone’s presence and making them tremble with instant jolts of happy. Since you’ve also got plenty of pride, however, you do expect admiration in return. If your light beams aren’t met with appreciation or if you feel disrespected then watch out — you will roar! Also, a born leader, you prefer to rule the land — something you do quite well. Just remember to be a noble leader since you may have a tendency towards bossy bursts of superiority.
You tend to shower those you love with extravagant, impressive gifts. And when it’s your birthday, you certainly appreciate the same attention to showiness. Drama is your middle name and if there’s not a party in your honor this year, you’ll be happy to make a night on the town attending a play, concert or other fun, entertaining event. As long as you’re given plenty of attention and applause, you’ll continue to beam joy out to the world. Leo, on your birthday, there’s only one word that counts: celebration. It’s time to rejoice in YOU!
Share the birthday card below with all your Leo friends!
You are confident and expressive today, dear Aries, although you may have some difficulty choosing between a safe choice and a slightly riskier one. The energy is quite creative but a little volatile, so that there can be some ups and downs in how you perceive things. However, open, forward-looking conversations can inspire you today. It could be that a conversation occurs now that clears the air, or news stimulates a desire to reconsider the pursuit of a goal. Learning new things or gaining an interesting perspective on a matter can figure strongly now.
Taurus
Taurus
The first half of the day tends to be on the quiet side, dear Taurus, and you might even prefer some anonymity. However, once the Moon moves into Taurus towards midday, you begin to crave a stronger connection to the world around you. Even so, your pursuit of increased independence may cause a few waves on the home front or with people in your life who would prefer your undivided attention. There can be a meaningful conversation or news later today that makes you quite hopeful about a family situation, or that serves to motivate you to push forward with domestic plans. There may be a clearing of the air, or you could be seeing opportunities to put the negative elements of the past behind you. Family matters are sharply in focus, and an emotional breakthrough is entirely possible.
Gemini
Gemini
The day begins rather spiritedly, dear Gemini, but towards midday, you’re likely to want to tone down the excitement and seek out a little more peace and quiet. This is due to the Moon’s move into your privacy sector. Even so, you can benefit from conversations today, as people’s thinking is particularly progressive. Look for opportunities to discover new interests. Friends can inspire you to think creatively or might encourage you to try something new. Today may not be a time for getting to conclusions, but entertaining new and unique ideas comes naturally now.
Cancer
Cancer
You continue to want to keep on top of things, dear Cancer, particularly your responsibilities. Towards midday, however, you seek out pressure-free activities and diversions. Even so, your mind continues to entertain ideas on business or practical levels today, with great success. There can be a focus of interest and conversation on business matters, money, personal possessions, and fundamental values. There may be good news or something that makes you feel especially confident and hopeful about the future, especially along practical lines. Keep your mind open to new information – not all ideas considered now will lead to something concrete, but one of them might click into place.
Leo
Leo
The Moon’s move to the top of your solar chart today can turn your attention to expectations, dear Leo – what you expect of yourself and what others expect of you. This can certainly stimulate your ambitions to be the best you can be. While you might feel a bit of a scramble to get things into place, you’re in a good position to bring more order to your life. Your communications also have more impact than usual. You may be communicating with more enthusiasm and courage. Higher education pursuits can thrive. You are entertaining new ideas and perspectives that excite and motivate you. You’ll want to be on top of the latest developments in various fields of interest today.
Virgo
Virgo
Your attention span may be a little short today, dear Virgo, but your openness to new ideas is admirable and can lead you to useful discoveries. You might reawaken a topic from the past or gain new insight into an old issue. There can be a real feeling of purging or release involved with bringing something hidden to light. Your inner world is animated today. For some of you, intimate conversations can be inspiring. New opportunities can emerge that turn your attention behind the scenes. You can accomplish a lot now, although effort may be going into research of personal interests rather than work. Ideas and communications flow right now.
Libra
Libra
Whether or not you want some space or more depth to a connection can be an issue today, dear Libra. Emotions that you may have recently brushed aside may emerge now and could be a little confusing at the outset. Even so, your social life can be quite animated, and there may be a nice flow of conversation or information that’s genuinely useful to you. Even with complicated feelings today, aim to be open to possibilities and also to making changes related to a partner or friend. Self-expression comes quite easily now, and you may be developing a pleasant rapport with people around you.
Scorpio
Scorpio
Today is good for exploring new ideas and possibilities, dear Scorpio, particularly related to your practical goals and/or career. Your ideas or intelligence might receive special attention now. Excellent energy is with you now for getting over things, living in the present, and looking forward to the future, rather than dwelling on the past. New insights into your career path or simply a work project can emerge today that can truly move things forward. There can be an improvement to your methods that increases productivity or saves you a little time.
Sagittarius
Sagittarius
Playful energy is with you today, dear Sagittarius, but from midday forward, you begin to concern yourself more and more with practical matters, chores, and responsibilities. You’re a little more sensitive than usual to those things that are left uncertain or out of order. This can be a strong time for picking up good advice, as it seems to be circulating, and for exploring interesting and unique topics with others. Your words of wisdom can be appreciated now. Travel, romantic, or creative opportunities can be opening now.
Capricorn
Capricorn
You can be self-protective today, dear Capricorn, but you tend to come out of your shell a little as the day progresses. Even so, you’re also very focused on observing and investigating. As a result, you may be giving off mixed signals – one side of you is playful and casual, and the other part is taking life seriously. There can be a strong desire or an opportunity to speak about a private, hidden, or taboo matter. You may be clearing the air now, and feeling some form of release as a result. Family relationships or domestic issues can improve, particularly if you can think ahead of you rather than focus on what happened in the past.
Aquarius
Aquarius
Your curiosity and desire for variety tend to rule in the first half of today, dear Aquarius, but by midday, the desire for comfort and predictability take the lead. Even so, your mind stays rather active and alert all day. You are able to think on your feet and respond quickly. If you need or want to write, this can be a more fluent time than usual to do so. People’s minds are open to new and progressive ideas, and this makes you very happy – you’re in your element. People in your life can be especially verbal, and you can be very supportive as you bring new light to a problem or good advice to the table. Jump on an opportunity to learn more about a person or relationship.
Pisces
Pisces
You can be rather single-minded in the first half of the day, dear Pisces. However, towards midday, you may be feeling a desire for more variety and intellectual stimulation. You’re likely to get it! A Mercury-Uranus combination keeps you on your toes and enlivens relationships and conversations as well. There can be refreshing points of view or perspectives that inspire you. Work, money, and health can be areas of life that stand to gain through discussions and ideas generated today. Look for opportunities to learn new methods or brush up your skills. Unusual and exciting elements on the job or in your daily routine can be in focus.
With the sun, Venus and Mercury all storming through fiery Leo, it’s a time for fresh ideas, creative thinking and passionate romance.
But amongst the fun and games, there will be voices raised, desires ignited and impulsive moments to contend with too. Stay zen-like and you’ll be rewarded.
ARIES
Someone is not only bringing you down to earth, but also opening your eyes to how mysteriously love moves. But you have little choice but to air your feelings and generate a few deeper truths. What do you fear so much? Is it perhaps that deep down inside you feel really vulnerable in the face of love? Step outside the ring of fire, and feel the centre of your soul.
TAURUS
With a renewed sense of self-esteem, you decide to take a deep breath and tell someone special what you really want and need in a relationship. Wants and needs are often very different, make sure they’re not incompatible and you can start to truly live that dream.
GEMINI
Some of us lack courage, so we think we can gain confidence by being with someone one who permanently boosts our ego. Alternatively, if what you ‘think’ you want might be someone to clear up your emotional mess, remember that what you ‘really’ want is to to be able to do so yourself. Time to clean up your feelings.
CANCER
Social acceptance seems to be a problem for you this week. But why worry what others think, when if you love yourself, universal love will be all around you too? Time to step out in style, and either meet the partner of your dreams or dance with a loved one and glow in your mutual warmth.
LEO
You hope that rational communication wins over idealistic viewpoints this week. But just for one moment think of what you secretly desire. Isn’t it to be a bit wild and free? Isn’t it to be more romantic, unaffected by what other people think of you? Don’t deny passion in your life, for in the months to come, the planets will be bringing you the chance to discover the real fire of your heart.
VIRGO
You still have this idea that you’re not supposed to text someone until they’ve texted you, and you must either keep the love of your life on their toes, or permanently be responsible for their happiness. But this week, it seems the game is about to be played another way. Love begins to be less of a neat stairway to heaven and more a series of leaps, bounds and exciting moments.
LIBRA
Now most of us ‘react’ to other people’s behaviour rather than ‘respond’. Reaction is emotionally driven from our inbuilt defence mechanisms. Response is to reflect, to take an attitude with objectivity, rather than take it personally. So your response this week will be to be observant, sexy and amused. It’s called being alive and not being overwhelmed by doubts and fears.
SCORPIO
With Mars about to depart your sign, you’re beginning to feel that you’re getting your life right, and that it’s time to move on if need be. You’ve met people, or seen things over the past few months which have not only changed your perception of the world, but also of yourself. This week, you begin to realise that a romantic change for the better is coming your way.
SAGITTARIUS
It’s hardly surprising you’re feeling impatient for love, angered by your own frustration and unsure of whether to give up a dream for being sensible. So why are these feelings so powerful at the moment? What is it about this exaggerated sense that is getting to you? Frankly, you’re ready for a challenge, a new romantic adventure. Soon, you will be able to calm your restless longings with rewards of the sexiest kind.
CAPRICORN
This week, it seems that clarity about your future is needed. And you will see that for all your belief in formality and doing things by the book, there is something deeply mysterious about the universe and love. What’s more, you realize that commitment to self-understanding means you can also truly love from your heart. And what is that, if not the truest love of all?
AQUARIUS
With Venus and the sun in your opposite sign, you’re waking up to the fact that you’re worth a million times more than those past feelings of being inadequate or unwanted. You have passion in bucket-loads, and it’s time to ring the changes. So instead of weeping for what has been and cannot be again, it’s time to laugh not only at the world, but with yourself.
PISCES
It’s nice to know you can now make some life-changing decisions in the coming months. Yes, remember that word change? Time to start expressing those desires to yourself and then share those words with the one you love, if attached. You will be surprised what a dynamic and enriching love life you are about to experience. Start loving what you once feared; yourself.
The Balance of the Signs & The Elements for Tuesday, July 26th
TAURUS STRONG
Stable and enduring, strong values, unyielding, earthy, acquisitive, strong desires. Can be stuck, stubborn, overly possessive, self-indulgent.
LEO STRONG
Self-confident, generous, warm-hearted, powerful leader, dramatic. Can be overly proud, vain, extravagant, arrogant.
BALANCE OF ELEMENTS
FIRE STRONG
Fire is enthusiastic, dynamic, and spontaneous, but lacks reflection. We are more courageous and adventurous now, with a tendency to act before thinking. There is little concern about what happened in the past. We are competitive and possibly impatient or bored easily.
AIR WEAK
We may have a difficult time being objective or detached. We may not be especially communicative.
BALANCE OF MODES
CARDINAL WEAK
This is not a time that we tend to naturally initiate actions. We may be stronger at following up than starting anew. Survival mechanisms may be weaker now.
FIXED STRONG
We are thinking about the long view, seeking out security and stability rather than change. We may be committed, focused, resistant to making changes, and stubborn.
To view more of Sarah’s insight, please visit her website, Astro-Awakenings
Heart-Centered Rebellion
We live in intense times: intensely unpredictable, intensely beautiful, intensely unsettling, intensely transformational. Both the best and the worst are rising to the surface, revealed in their fullness for all to behold. These are times of opportunity, when we can change the course of so much and challenge, like never before, the status quo of inequalities and power differentials, oppression, exploitation and deception. Things are not as they seem, nor are they as we’ve been led to believe. Truths are surfacing, along with feelings previously discounted, fears denied for too long and realities we dared not name.
Both brutal and nurturing in equal measure, current planetary activity speaks of great conflict and great healing, but the former may precede the latter with immense force. Truth rises like a bubble, breaking through what may be a hardened surface of complacency or denial, shattering as it goes. This fragmented surface may be our career that falls apart to reveal its empty heart just when we thought we should be at the top of our game. It may be a relationship that dissolves into dust when we need it to sustain us the most. It may be our health as it falters and fails, a wider breakdown in social order or an unavoidable sense of deepening unease that something in our world is very wrong and in need of healing before it’s too late. The current conjunction between Eris and Uranus leaves no one untouched for we all, at some level or other, must be broken open to receive the truth and stop living our personal lie.
It is tempting to take sides at moments like this. To play ‘good and righteous’ to another’s ‘bad’. Current world events foster this tendency as acts of unspeakable violence occur on our doorstep, echoing events that have occurred for many years, but at a safe enough distance that we could happily ignore them and carry on our merry and unconscious way. But violence and hatred, fear and terror, despair and frustration don’t go away by ignoring them. Quite the opposite. Denial feeds them, as does refusal to acknowledge the seeds of truth in their darkened heart. The Eris/Uranus conjunction speaks of revenge and retaliation, just as the goddess Eris’s reaction to rejection triggered the Trojan War. She has no compunction about feeding the elephant in the room until it is so huge we cannot possibly ignore it any longer! She knows no fear and many who have felt disenfranchised and despairing for too long may now be releasing their fear too, ready to rise up and fight for their cause whatever it may be, even to a bloody and bitter end.
If we are living and breathing today we are part of this, no matter how much we may see it as ‘those over there’ causing the problem. The multifarious aspects of our world are so intertwined it isn’t possible to stand apart and claim no share in its fabric.Neptune now retrograde in its own sign of Pisces reminds us we each arise from and return to the same source. We wrap our body and mind, heart and soul, around our presence and call it ‘me’. We feel ourselves as individuals, which indeed we are at a relative level. But in the absolute we are simply parts of a whole, each uniquely fashioned to play its’ specific part. Reflection on this inter-connectedness is vital now, to counter the movement toward polarisation which leads only to ever greater conflict in the end.
Saturn continues to square Neptune until the second half of September when this alliance begins to fade. It supports the questioning of long-held truths and much-loved certainties in the face of today’s mighty challenges. Be it political upheaval, conflict and war, climate change or personal trials, life is banging upon our consciousness to wake up and rise up. Never has there been such a potent time for breakdown to become breakthrough or tragedy to become triumph. But these processes take time and demand that we honour each step to birth the deepest transformation shaped by the highest truths. We may have to get our hands dirty in the messiness of the human realm with all our wild emotions and crazy longings. We may have to remove mask after mask until eventually we don’t even recognise ourselves, let alone anyone else knowing who the heck we are!
These times call for authenticity that may offend in its honesty and passion, challenging the religious, political, social and spiritual status quos. We answer to no one when it comes to truth, for truth is its own arbiter, leaving nothing else stood in its wake. We lie to ourselves and each other when to speak and act freely may threaten too deeply the surface accord which gets us through the day. But it is time for the most fulsome honesty we can muster, first and foremost with ourselves. Look within and say aloud what you see. Listen to yourself and the words you use. The timbre of your voice, its passion or fear. Feel your reluctance or thrill as perhaps you say these things aloud for the first time. This is your truth, say it, hear it and live it. Then see how long it lasts in the light of a more conscious day….
The Uranus/Pluto square of 2012 – 2015 prepared us for these times. Our shells were broken then and we emerged into a new kind of reality, one which would no longer tolerate the tyranny of ‘normal’ against the upwelling of deeper truths. Many feared they wouldn’t survive its’ onslaught and yet here we are, changed beyond recognition instead of broken beyond repair. And just as we journeyed through and out the other side then, we can do the same now. No matter how much we may fear the darkness, it is needed to frame the light. No matter how much we quake in the face of truths too hard to accept, they serve to reveal the path ahead. We can do this. But we can’t do it alone. We must do it with joined hands, open hearts and expansive minds prepared to entertain new possibilities, not calcify against anything that threatens our personal status quo.
As Goethe famously observed ‘Boldness has genius, magic and power in it’. And now, more than ever, it is time to be bold! Mars in Sagittarius between 2nd August and 27thSeptember supports courageous acts and fearless hearts which remain open no matter what. This open-heartedness, which mitigates against defensive posturing, projection of our shadow upon the ‘enemy’ and loss of faith, can be our foundation if we choose, enabling clarity of effort and a sense of direction that may have been lacking more recently. That said, the flip side of Mars in Sagittarius is crusading for a cause without thought or respect for those on a different path and we must guard against such seeds in our own hearts. No matter how right we feel, no matter how true our perspective seems, to insist others share it in itself reveals the lie that perpetuates so much conflict in this world: that life is black and white, concrete and solid with obvious truths and one reality. Pluto’s on-going journey through Capricorn affirms how far from the truth such perceptions are and reminds us that nothing is sacred when it comes to upending the status quo.
On 19th August the next eclipse season begins. It ends on 23rd September, the day before Uranus and Eris conjoin for the second time. Together these cosmic events herald a further intensification of the current cycle of revolution and rebellion. In the weeks leading up to this next rise in tempo we have the opportunity to make a deep and abiding commitment to join hands and hearts, stay the course and offer our very lives up to the mystery that is the current evolution of consciousness, a journey replete with great truth, boundless blessings and unimaginable gifts of grace. If they come wrapped in struggle, so be it. If enrobed in spontaneous shifts which take our life off in a new and positive direction, hallelujah!! And if they come like a thief in the night, stealing from us what we hold most dear to seed a future we cannot yet imagine, may we stand strong beside each other as we learn to live our life anew.
Intense times indeed, which may be the understatement of the year! And yet powerful beyond measure and more precious than gold. Characterised by division and conflict alongside heart-centred rebellion and spiritual revolution, they teach how to live in new and innovative ways that honour truth, foster peace and begin to heal the deep divides that have festered on this planet for way too long….
The Moon today is in a Third Quarter phase. Sometimes called a Last Quarter Moon, this phase occurs roughly 3 weeks after the New Moon when the Moon is three quarters of the way through it’s orbit around the earth. If you live in the northern hemisphere the Moons left side will be illuminated and the right side dark. For thoughts of you in the southern hemisphere it will be the opposite with the right side illuminated. On the day of the Third Quarter phase the Moon will rise around midnight on the eastern horizon and set in the west around noon the next day. In the days following the Third Quarter Phase the Moon’s illumination will decrees each day until the New Moon.
PHASE DETAILS FOR – TUESDAY, JULY 26, 2016
Phase: Last Quarter
Illumination: 55%
Moon Age: 21.66 days
Moon Angle: 0.55
Moon Distance: 363,554.53 km
Sun Angle: 0.52
Sun Distance: 151,922,769.97 km
For members of Norse traditions, July 26 honors Sleipnir, the mythical horse of Odin that represents time and permits him to ride between the worlds. In Asatru, the eight-legged steed takes Odin between the three worlds: from the upper one of the Gods (Asgard), through our own middle kingdom of Midgard, down into the underworld of the shades (Utgard). As the Norse God of war and poetry and conductor of the dead, Odin’s ability to transcend the planes of consciousness is what allows him the ability to oversee the fate of humans, and Sleipnir serves as his magickal transportation.
An altar is a working surface used for religious purposes and as a space to perform magickal workings. The space should be completely dedicated for these uses and no other. The altar is another important tool that serves as a focal point for personal power. If your altar can remain set up at all times, it also serves as a shrine to the Goddess and God.
There is no set configuration, size, or shape for the altar. The only requirement is that the surface be cleansed and consecrated and then covered with a cloth. Ideally a permanent altar will be placed in the north or east part of a room so that when you stand you are facing one of those directions. During ritual work, the altar is at the center of the circle.
Basic items for the altar include:
One or two candles for illumination
A silver or red candle to represent the Goddess
A gold or green candle to represent the God**
Pentagram
Censer and incense
A bowl of water and one of salt
Athame
Chalice
Bell
Wand
*If you are working with the Goddess alone, use three candles (white, red, and black) to honor her in her three phases: Maiden, Mother, and Crone.
** If you are working with the God alone, use three candles (black, gold, and white) to honor him in his three phases: Prince, King, and Elder.
There are many other things that may also be present on your altar, like statues of the Goddess and God, herbs you will be using, a small cauldron, crystals or representations of totem animals.
Wicca. The Practitioner’s Introductory Guide: Symbols, herbs, history, spells, shops, supplies, clothing, courses, altar, ritual, and much more all covered!
Riley Star
Tuesday is a Mars day, and just like the god of war, this is the time to tap into magicks to call for strength and courage. This day of the week is for rebels and warriors. If you are facing a challenge of any kind, need a boost to your courage, or want to enhance your passions, Tuesday is the day of the week for you. Some suggestions for Tuesday enchantments would include:
*Wearing the fiery colors associated with this day: scarlet, red, black, and orange. Don some of the more daring and bewitching colors of your wardrobe on Tuesdays and turn a few heads.
*Carrying a bloodstone in your pocket or wearing garnet-studded jewelry to reinforce your convictions
*Working with protective and fire-associated plants such as the snapdragon, thistle, and holly to boost your shields and bravery
*Burning spicy-scented energy-enhancing candles to add a little magical aromatherapy to your home
*Cooking up a hearty meal featuring carrots, peppers, and garlic (all Mars foods and spices) to empower yourself for victory and success
Tiwaz is the Warrior Rune. It represents pure, masculine power and the ability to successfully fight to meet your goals. However, you must be careful that costs of attaining your goals overshadow their values.
Ingwaz signifies completion, success and fertility. Your present ambitions are about to be met. You are fecund in both mind and body.
Naudhiz reversed may tell of needs met and harmonious relationships. Your passions for someone or something may be at their pinnacle.
The Hierophant represents the protector of a culture’s heritage and traditions. His purpose is to defend and teach the established ways and beliefs a group embraces. He is inherently conventional and a true believer in the power of the group. He loves the structure of the group and its values. It is the task of The Hierophant to bring new members into the group—to prepare the uninitiated to take their rightful place in his culture. In this sense he is very much like a teacher or a priest. He also acts as the repository of his group’s history. The Hierophant is certainly not one to buck proper authority. However, he is staunch and worthy defender of the tried and true. He represents the positive aspects of conformity.
The Magus is the physical embodiment of decisive action based upon knowledge and aimed squarely at specific goals. While firmly set in the material world, he none-the-less has a powerful spiritual connection as well. His knowledge, wisdom and skill are all encompassing. He is complete. His power as a creator is unmatched on our earthly plane. He is self-aware and unafraid to act. His enormous strength gives him the freedom to act as he chooses. However, responsibility comes with that freedom. Because he is not bound to the restraints of others he must choose how to act. The question that always lies before him is should he act morally, or forsake ethics for personal gain.
Witches Of The Craft® 
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