Strength 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 Strength 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. Strength also denotes a large capacity for forgiveness and compassion. Strength is not as much about winning as it is about achieving balance, overcoming hardship, and using well crafted persuasion to gain allies.
Our senses sharpen as cerebral Mercury functions in a highly discriminating manner while traveling through logical Virgo until October 7. Fortunately, we can all benefit from the Winged Messenger’s focused energy. But our intellects clash with our feelings when Mercury creates an anxious alignment with passionate Pluto later tonight. Meanwhile, there is an easing of the recent hectic pace once the Moon shifts into nurturing Cancer at 5:08 pm EDT.
Aries Horoscope MAR 21 – APR 19
Sticking with your original intention might be tricky today as rationality overpowers your feelings. Flying by the seat of your pants usually gives you the ability to make the most of the changing circumstances because you can modify your plans on a moment’s notice. But you can’t get away with cavalier behavior now and must commit to a specific schedule. Stop resisting the inevitable; practicing self-discipline is for your own good.
Taurus Horoscope APR 20 – MAY 20
You may feel the weight of responsibility lift from your shoulders today, especially if you stop and take a few deep breaths of relief. You are back in your element as mental Mercury shifts into earthy Virgo, emphasizing your natural tendency to be stable and sensible. Although your unexpressed feelings linger, you no longer need to say everything that’s on your mind. Those who don’t understand your self-restraint will never understand what motivates you to speak.
Gemini Horoscope MAY 21 – JUN 20
It seems as if someone has grabbed the controls and is playing with the volume knob in your imagination. You Twins are exceptionally attuned to your key planet Mercury and its entry into Virgo creates a power surge in your brain. Your dilemma is that just because your thinking is louder today, doesn’t mean that it’s better. You must carefully consider what you say and what you keep to yourself. Sometimes, consciously choosing a little solitude is enough to calm your soul.
Cancer Horoscope JUN 21 – JUL 22
You are returning to a familiar place today as Luna cycles back into your sign. Since you Crabs are so attuned to the pull of the Moon, you might be moodier than others now. Although you’re quite comfortable with your temporary emotional withdrawal, people may misinterpret your retreat and ask you what’s wrong. Let them know that you just need some space to sit with your own feelings, without having to verbalize them to anyone else. As Ram Dass says, “The quieter you become, the more you can hear.”
Leo Horoscope JUL 23 – AUG 22
You may observe that one of your inner voices is muted today as verbose Mercury leaves your sign. Although this exit from lively Leo and entry into timid Virgo won’t necessarily have a huge impact on your life, you might not be as quick to express your thoughts. You can derive great benefit now from your newly found ability to filter out the excess noise, both within your own head and what comes out of your mouth. The Dalai Lama reminds us, “Silence is sometimes the best answer.”
Virgo Horoscope AUG 23 – SEP 22
It’s time to step out of the shadow and into the light. Consider sharing your thoughts with those close to you, especially if you recently danced around the edges of the truth. Pensive Mercury is busy in your sign until October 7, bringing you a heightened sense of your own analytical process. Use these days wisely to strengthen your logic and research your area of expertise. Learn to politely say no to anything that doesn’t fit in with your current trajectory. Setting boundaries is an essential element to self-care.
Libra Horoscope SEP 23 – OCT 22
You’re inclined to demonstrate your ability to nurture others by performing random acts of kindness. However, your actions may not be fully aligned with your heart today. This gulf between your thoughts and your emotions prompts you to remain unresponsive. Unfortunately, this dilemma can result in unexpressed anger, pouting or even passive-aggressive behavior. As difficult as it sounds, try to keep your true feelings close to the surface, especially around those you trust. Authenticity is your friend.
Scorpio Horoscope OCT 23 – NOV 21
It’s as if you are awakening from a deep sleep today; your mental clarity seems sharper than it has been in a while. Suddenly, you are thinking more about the future than the present. This is especially true at work, where you can refocus your intentions on longer-range goals, rather than just putting in the hours. Make use of the analytical powers that you now have at your disposal and apply this logic to all walks of your life. As Wayne Dyer wrote, “Our intention creates our reality.”
Sagittarius Horoscope NOV 22 – DEC 21
You are being pulled in two opposing directions now. Your mind is quickly becoming more discriminating and detail oriented, but you still prefer to be thinking about the entire universe. You might grow anxious when you realize that you must concentrate on the minute particulars instead of the global picture. However, if you can focus on your specific role in the community, there will be real payoffs just around the corner. Think cosmically, act locally.
Capricorn Horoscope DEC 22 – JAN 19
A major change is occurring in your outlook on life that could positively impact the next couple of months. Since Capricorn is an earth sign, Mercury’s current shift into earthy Virgo means you Mountain Goats are receiving an intellectual zap that you can put to good use. You’re thinking in a more pragmatic manner, but you may encounter unexpected challenges today. You must continue to widen your perspective or you might end up feeling mentally blocked. It has been said that the mind is like a parachute in that it works best when it is open.
Aquarius Horoscope JAN 20 – FEB 18
You can’t get away with your typical quirkiness now. However, it’s not likely you’re going to change overnight. It’s just that circumstances are going to keep calling you back to the details you would rather forget. There’s no escape; swallow your annoyance with reality and try to get the unpleasant tasks out of the way so you can put your attention toward things of greater interest. Determination and discipline lead to success.
Pisces Horoscope FEB 19 – MAR 20
It’s a mixed bag for you soft-hearted Fish today. The Moon’s shift into watery Cancer enables you to be nourished by the emotional richness that is reentering your life. The problem is there are deep feelings that you are afraid to share now. Fortunately, if you are willing to face your fears straight on, you may just discover that you will accelerate into the future. Your life is an adventure that’s waiting to begin, so open your heart and see what happens.
You are magnetic, affectionate, and project much warmth. Very likable, others sense that you care more than most. You conduct yourself with grace, and you are especially fair, never discounting emotions in favor of logic when dealing with others. You are highly intuitive, sometimes dramatic, and have a flair for gently leading others. Moodiness can sometimes interfere with your material or professional path. There can be a great fear of boredom and restriction. Famous people born today: Stephen Dorff, Martina McBride, Peter Jennings, Josh Radnor, Genesis Rodriguez, Wil Wheaton, Rachel Miner, Allison Mack.
Your Birthday Year Forecast:
With the Sun and Moon in harmony in your Solar Return chart, the year ahead should be satisfying and balanced overall. You are in comfortable demand and personally popular, and you can achieve a decent balance between work and play; personal and professional life. For the most part, you are on top of your game this year, and positive connections with others can be made fairly easily. With the ability to handle your emotions successfully, there is less stress on both your mind and body. Your self-confidence and positive attitude will reward you!
You are more emotionally invested in relating well with others this year, and you can be especially fair in your dealings. Conversations can be supportive and genuinely two-way. Negotiations are fair and clear.
You may win respect and recognition for your work or craft this year. There is a good balance between learning from tradition and seeing things progressively. Timing is strong, and you tend to make firm, favorable decisions related to work or long-term projects.
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 can 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.
You are likely to have much energy for debate or mental work. It’s possible that you may be argumentative and irritable, and particularly impatient with vagueness or slowness. You may be involved in frequent lectures, debates, and discussions during the year. You can convey your ideas more powerfully. You are quick to take the initiative and to put your thoughts into action. Watch for impatience that trips you up. Avoid pushing people and projects.
The year is strong for physical therapy and healing, as well as for having a real sense of mission.
This can be a good year for dabbling in the arts, furthering a creative hobby or craft, and exploring new artistic interests.
Certainly, spontaneity is an essential ingredient in your personal relationships this year. You quite readily embrace all that is new, unusual, and out-of-the-ordinary with regards to romantic involvements as well as financial undertakings. You have a taste for the offbeat this year, and this energy can bring sudden or unexpected romance into your life.
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 are curious and seek out mental stimulate and new interests or experiences this year. This is a strong year for enjoying exciting new ideas and for connecting with others with similar interests. However, you may be too quick to speak or act out at times during this period, and it would be wise to look for ways to reduce stress and slow yourself down. Friendships can improve with improved communication.
2016 is a Number Nine year for you. Ruled by Mars. This is a year of completion and transition. It is a time when we need to let go of things that no longer serve their purpose, and hold on to things that have a future. It is a time of cleaning out dead wood, not necessarily for new beginnings. It can be a time when a burden has been taken off your shoulders, and it can be a year of giving of yourself. Advice – let go of things that are holding you back, give of yourself and express your sympathetic, compassionate side.
2017 will be a Number One year for you. Ruled by the Sun. This is a year of action. The seeds you plant now, you will reap later. Others might find you less sociable, as you are busier than ever and you focus on your activities and your needs. Still, you are outgoing and your initiative is stronger than ever. Advice – Stand alone, take action, start fresh, express independence.
This is a big idea day, dear Aries, but it can also be a time of impatience and disagreement. Communications of all kinds are emphasized, but especially those involving creative contacts, children, and romantic interests. You could come across as an “open book” now, as you tend to say what you think, but a lot is going on under the surface of things. You are full of enthusiasm for projects. Even so, it’s important not to get too carried away. Avoid off the cuff remarks as much as possible, as you could say something that completely misrepresents what you feel in your heart. Uranus in your sign turns retrograde today. For the coming five months, the personal changes you’re making are, for the most part, going on inside of you more than they are obvious. Personal plans may be put on hold or could slow down, perhaps due to circumstances, or because you are more inclined to second-guess things. Look beyond the frustration of the moment by recognizing that slowing down is a necessary part of the cycle.
Taurus
Taurus
Be careful that your concern over family and others close to you isn’t interpreted as bossiness today, dear Taurus. You tend to have big ideas about what should be done, but a soft sell approach is probably best in the long run. Making plans for domestic matters is favored today, but the details will need to be filled in on a day when more practical energies are with you. This month, there is a lot of focus on family and domestic concerns, but at times this can conflict with a partner or close friendship, and this can be one of those moments. Try not to jump to conclusions. Uranus helps you break free from the past in important ways, and its five-month retrograde cycle begins today. It’s a time for processing recent events or changes and for dealing with internal changes. Dreams and intuition are more pronounced during this period, and they’re giving you meaningful messages. The more you let go of the weight of secrets and inauthentic behavior, the more you enjoy your life.
Gemini
Gemini
Continuing and perhaps accelerating today, dear Gemini, restlessness can prompt you to make impulsive, ill-advised moves if you’re not mindful. While fantastic opportunities on learning levels can emerge, hold off on major decisions until you’ve had time to consider all the angles. Skipping over important details can be a problem today. Certainly, there is high energy available to you on a mental level today. You can be pumped up about your ideas. Watch for exaggeration, even within yourself. Keeping excess in check will help you greatly as this is a robust period for communications, new interests, and making connections. Uranus turns retrograde today and for the next five months, you’ll be doing some processing of recent changes and attitudes with regards to friendship, group, and networking connections. You are learning that you are truer to yourself when you act from your heart rather than simply react to others and changing circumstances around you.
Cancer
Cancer
It’s not the best time for clear thinking about financial matters, dear Cancer. Moderation and patience are key at this point, but a little difficult to practice. Tame impulses if you are shopping today, simply because elevated moods can lead you to conveniently forget the future. While it’s important to expand your mind to dream up new ideas, particularly business or finance-related ones, resolve to fill in the important details at a later date. Mixing romance and money can be problematic now. Try not to bulldoze over others in conversations, as well. Uranus begins its yearly five-month retrograde cycle today, and you tend to ease up on reacting to external circumstances in favor of examining attitudes you can change inside of yourself. It’s a good period for dreaming up ways to take a few risks so that you can get to a more authentic place professionally speaking. Introspection is appropriate now. Analyze, plan, and reassess.
Leo
Leo
This can be a creative day, dear Leo, as you tend to think outside of the box, and your creative imagination is engaged. Even so, practical matters can suffer now if you’re not careful. You may have fabulous ideas now, but family or home matters can be in conflict with your personal plans, or people close to you may be feeling insecure or jealous of your attention to other things. There may be a disagreement that requires putting egos aside to resolve. Try not to jump to conclusions or speak out of turn. Impatience can lead to needless frustration. For approximately five months a year, Uranus is retrograde, and this retrograde cycle begins today. Changes are likely to be less dramatic and more internalized in the coming months as you examine what attitudes within need altering. Personal adventures may take a back seat to responsibilities now. As well, a partnership may be in a quieter stage.
Virgo
Virgo
You may be opening up about something private today, dear Virgo, but it would be wise to think about what you are sharing and who you want to share it with. You may be stirring up some opposition or conflict with what you communicate. There can be a significant meeting or event that occurs behind the scenes today. Avoid fixating on an idea or opinion if it’s not serving you any good. Watch also for impatience with others – and even things! Slow your pace. While Uranus has been influencing your solar eighth house for some time and will continue to do so for a few more years, there are cycles of heavier change followed by cycles of internalizing issues and less visible, outward change. The latter is what is beginning for you today with Uranus turning retrograde for five months. You may be more introspective about your intimate and financial life during this period. It’s a strong time for thinking about how you depend on others, and how you can alter these dependencies in ways that benefit yourself and people you love.
Libra
Libra
While the day can be exciting on some levels, dear Libra, there can be some irritable tempers as well. Someone close to you can get quite fired up today – possibly impatient and provocative, or simply passionate. Reactions can lead to a confrontation of sorts, which may be positive if everyone’s treating one another with respect. It’s not the time to be indiscriminate with your money, especially when it comes to others handling it. You might also need to draw some boundaries with people who can be pushing your limits. The details of plans may not get attention today, but you can always refine them when you’re in a more practical headspace. There can be some confusing energy for close partnerships and romantic connections now with Uranus turning retrograde today. In the coming five months, freedom issues in a relationship may not be as overt or pressing, although they are still present on a psychological level. Don’t ignore them just because they’re internalized and not screaming at you – do some heavy thinking about your inner needs for change during this cycle.
Scorpio
Scorpio
There is a spirit of impulsiveness today, dear Scorpio, but you can find ways to make it work for you rather than against you. For example, you can enjoy an extra dose of courage to complete something you’ve avoided. It will be important to avoid hasty communications, however, as there is a real tendency now to be quick to anger, or to exaggerate. There is good energy for recognition and career advancement this month, but impatience should be tamed. Be on the watch for openings and opportunities, particularly involving career, business, finances, and reputation. Who you know may be important right now. Even so, it may be best not to take on major new work projects, but attention to work in progress is helpful These days are best used for revision and refinement than brand new endeavors with Uranus now retrograde in your solar sixth house for the coming five months. Take stock of your current arrangement, schedule, and routine. Learn more about yourself and try to align your behavior such that it’s a more accurate reflection of your true nature rather than simply a reaction to the changing circumstances around you.
Sagittarius
Sagittarius
This has some potential to be a spontaneous, creative day, dear Sagittarius, but impatience or restlessness should be tamed in order to enjoy the extra courage accessible now. Someone could be provoking you, and your reaction may be to go to extremes. You might be considering taking up an activity that you previously felt was not possible. The important thing is that you’re feeling inspired and allowing new ideas to flow, but rushing things may lead to spoilage. You are discovering new things about yourself with the long-term influence of Uranus in your sector of romance, creativity, and entertainment. With Uranus turning retrograde for the next five months, as it does each year, changes are less drastic, at least on the surface of things. It’s time to look within to explore internal needs for change, which could be attracting the outer events. With introspection, you can come up with ways to steer your life in order to feel more in control. Creative projects can benefit from some review and refinement.
Capricorn
Capricorn
There can be a hurried pace to the day, dear Capricorn. Try to be quick but not hasty. You might feel consumed by a desire to get to the meaning behind an issue that you feel is pressing, but it’s best not to push something right now, as tempting as it may be. Talking about your feelings or intimate matters can be fun and rewarding. You could be trying to open up a topic that is usually taboo or left unspoken. Discussions may be frank, but avoid brusqueness or overly blunt statements now. Uranus is retrograde for the coming five months. Its long-term transit of your sector of home and family may have brought some instability to your personal life, and for some of you, this state of flux has led to some stress. Even so, emotional breakthroughs may also be occurring. Attitudes towards security, dependency, attachment to the past, and family or domestic life are evolving. During this inward-looking retrograde cycle, you’ll be getting in touch with what may be at the root of changes or rebellious behaviors.
Aquarius
Aquarius
It can be an animated day, dear Aquarius, and it’s important to enjoy the extra courage that it brings, but avoid hasty and risky decisions, moves, and speech. Communications with others are significant and in focus today, and you are enthusiastic about sharing your ideas. However, it’s important not to get so caught up in what you’re trying to say that you end up alienating or overpowering others. It’s also important not to overstate. Open up the lines of communication but be sure it’s two-way and considerations of the heart are involved. Not everyone is in the mood for debate. Someone may be happily discussing, while the other person considers it an argument, for example. Tension with a partner and/or a person in authority can emerge today. Your ruler, Uranus, turns retrograde today, and this can bring pent up feelings to the surface, and yet you may not feel that you can express them adequately. You are entering a five-month cycle of re-examination of the path you’re taking, how you’re expressing yourself, and how others are receiving you.
Pisces
Pisces
There is much attention to work, health, and habits these days, dear Pisces, and for the most part, you’re in a good position to make improvements. You can resolve many problems through brainstorming and analysis. Watch for rushing things and people. Keep in mind that haste makes waste today. Otherwise, enjoy extra courage or motivation to handle pesky matters. Uranus has been gradually detaching you from the values you’ve previously held. There may have been some upsets in your finances, as well as some moving around of funds, and while this can be worrisome at times, ultimately you’re moving towards a whole new way of expressing yourself. As well, as you rewrite what you value, the respect you attract into your life evolves. You are discovering unique natural talents and learning to embrace and develop them. With Uranus turning retrograde today, the next five months will be good for working on inner attitudes that need to change so that you can move forward more authentically. Use this time to review plans, particularly related to business and money.
We’re dancing to some pretty complicated music today as the cosmos keeps changing the rhythm. Luckily, the versatile Gemini Moon enables us to keep up with all the unfolding story lines. An argumentative Mercury-Mars square sharpens our perceptions and quickens our reactions. But we move beyond thinking as a provocative Venus-Pluto alignment stirs intense feelings. Additionally, unexpected events catch us off guard as radical Uranus turns retrograde.
Aries Horoscope MAR 21 – APR 19
You might feel like your world has grown larger than life, and significant portions of your creativity are out of your control. However, a period of intense upheaval is already slipping into the past and you need to follow through by initiating changes at work. Extending your spheres of influence could affect your relationships, especially with those in your immediate environment. Ultimately, you may have to play your cards sooner than later and reveal your intentions. If you want something, don’t wish for it; life is too short to wait.
Taurus Horoscope APR 20 – MAY 20
You’re picking up some very strange signals today that could easily distract you from your goals. You might even think you’ve become slightly unhinged if you can’t make heads or tails out of your current experience, but there’s really nothing to worry about at all. Nevertheless, sharing your inner conflicts without expecting anything in exchange is enough to the get the balling rolling in your direction. “Dream big, start small” is your motto for success.
Gemini Horoscope MAY 21 – JUN 20
It’s best to unfold your story gradually today but you’re too anxious to share your best-kept secrets. Unfortunately, your spontaneous disclosure won’t make you feel any better, and might emotionally agitate others in your circle of friends. Nevertheless, initiating a conversation about a subject dear to your heart brings a smile to your face. But it’s not enough to steal a moment or two of happiness; you long for a much more meaningful exchange. Don’t be afraid to reach back into the recesses of your mind and talk about something that truly matters with someone who truly cares.
Cancer Horoscope JUN 21 – JUL 22
The very things that have been blocking your path seem to quickly fade into the past today. Although you might not be ready to swing into action yet, circumstances can force your hand. If someone does something that annoys you now, you won’t be able to just sit quietly because you feel the need to even the score immediately. There’s nothing wrong with standing up for yourself as long as you take a few minutes to fine-tune your message. Julian Assange writes, “Every time we witness an injustice and do not act, we train our character to be passive.”
Leo Horoscope JUL 23 – AUG 22
A social cause might have you so fired up today that you can’t help but jump up on your soapbox and speak out. Sometimes it takes a lot to grab your attention, but you’re hooked now and won’t be able to move on until you respond to this important issue. However, your straightforward reaction opens a portal into a parallel universe; nothing goes according to your plan. It’s understandable if everything gets strange for a while; thankfully, it won’t last long. There’s no reason to resist the weird energies that are coming to the surface. Live life to express, not impress.
Virgo Horoscope AUG 23 – SEP 22
You want to take care of business today, but responsibilities on the home front could interfere with your busy schedule. Rather than sharing your predicament with anyone, you prefer to keep your worries to yourself until you fulfill your commitments. Only after you honor your promises will you feel comfortable discussing your difficulties about your job performance. Nevertheless, you don’t have to wait; the sooner you reveal your vulnerability, the faster you’ll receive much-needed advice. Share your burden and lighten your load.
Libra Horoscope SEP 23 – OCT 22
Relationships with your friends and associates are complicated today because sparks may fly over agendas that are not really in conflict. However, it might seem as if the disagreement is irresolvable until you start to delve deeper. Magnetic Venus receives an intensity booster from potent Pluto that could send you spiraling into the darkness, but this is an unexpected blessing since you could discover a misplaced rainbow. Whatever happens, don’t relinquish your power; ultimately, nothing can stand in the way of your truth.
Scorpio Horoscope OCT 23 – NOV 21
You may have so much work on your plate now that you just want to escape through the nearest exit. But you’re not usually one to run out on something that’s unfinished. Nevertheless, you can stir up a hornet’s nest if your unexpressed anger gets the best of you. Instead of waiting until it’s too late, lay your feelings out on the table. That which is seen is much easier to work with than that which you marginalize or pretend is not there. Although total denial isn’t a sensible strategy, be cautious as you open the door to the unknown.
Sagittarius Horoscope NOV 22 – DEC 21
You’re pushing into new territory these days and you won’t be able to continue looking in your rear view mirror for long. Even if you’re feeling nostalgic today, you can’t just slip into your time machine and dial up powerful experiences from the past. Nevertheless, you can bring old memories forward into the present moment. In the final analysis, you have a chance to rewrite your personal story in a way that positively impacts your future. Thankfully, once you’re aware of your own history, you’re blessed with the opportunity to change it.
Capricorn Horoscope DEC 22 – JAN 19
You have many little tasks to do today and you’re not sure how you will get them all done. However, you can accomplish a lot in a very small amount of time if you put your heart and soul into your work. You grow motivated to find answers to larger questions about your life as you watch your friends sink deeper into Pluto’s mysterious realms. There’s no logical reason to fear the unknown, but then again, you’re required to leave your rational thoughts behind. As Albert Einstein said, “Logic will get you from A to B. Imagination will take you everywhere.”
Aquarius Horoscope JAN 20 – FEB 18
A relationship at work grows messy today as someone stops walking their talk. You don’t know whether or not to trust the words you hear, or to only pay attention to their actions. Unfortunately, cerebral Mercury dynamically squares warrior Mars, bending you out of shape and reminding you to be prepared for anything you might face. You’re primed to do something you will regret unless you move through the day with great intention. An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of care.
Pisces Horoscope FEB 19 – MAR 20
You may have plenty to do at home today, but your job duties must come first. Thankfully, you are particularly adept at juggling all the components of your life now. Although you might want to do everything at once, the only way you’ll get through the day with flying colors is to make a detailed list of exactly what you want to accomplish. Narrowing your attention is an absolute must. The more you focus on your priorities, the greater your chances of finishing everything in a timely manner.
If you’re thinking about making a major move connected to your love life, think again. This isn’t the weekend for sudden changes unless you’re prepared to ride out unexpected consequences.
Mercury will square off with Mars on Friday, leading to heated, argumentative mindsets for all. If there is a fight brewing between you and your mate, this is the weekend it all might explode. What adds fuel to the fire is that Uranus stations retrograde on the same day, inviting erratic potential in everything. Clear the air if you must, but remember to keep it classy. Still, the best course of action this weekend is no action at all!
This Weekend’s Romantic Rating*
* Heart ratings are based on the lunar cycle. They range from low to full, with low indicating a rocky weekend for romance and full indicating plenty of passionate potential.
The Moon today is in a Waning Crescent phase. In this phase the Moon’s illumination is growing smaller each day until the New Moon. During this phase the Moon is getting closer to the Sun as viewed from Earth and the night side of the Moon is facing the Earth with only a small edge of the Moon being illuminated. This phase is best viewed an hour or 2 before the sunrise and can be quite beautiful if you’re willing to get up early. It can also be a great time to see the features of the Moon’s surface. Along the edge where the illuminated portion meets the dark side, the craters and mountains cast long shadows making them easier to observe with a telescope or binoculars.
PHASE DETAILS FOR – FRIDAY, JULY 29, 2016
Phase: Waning Crescent
Illumination: 22%
Moon Age: 24.90 days
Moon Angle: 0.54
Moon Distance: 366,395.02 km
Sun Angle: 0.53
Sun Distance: 151,872,853.80 km
Thor, the Norse God of Sky and Thunder, has rulership over those aspects of life most important to sailors, farmers, and the poorer classes. Thor is considered to be the God of right orderliness and the regulator and enforcer of oaths. According to legend, he was the common man’s God, a tireless eater, drinker, and fighter who was inclined toward mankind; even the slaves came under his protection. On this day, Thor would have been invoked to bring fertility to the flock and fields for an abundant harvest.
Friday is named after the Norse goddesses of love, Freya and Frigga. There seems to be some debate as to whom the day is actually named after, so I thought I would share a little information so you can decide for yourself.
In Latin, this day is known as Dies Veneris, “Venus’s day.” In Greek, it’s Hermera Aphrodites, which translates to the “day of Aphrodite.” In Old English, this day is called Frige- daeg, or “Freya’s day.” This day has the Germanic title of Frije-dagaz, which, once again, could be Freya’s day or Frigga’s day.
Both Freya and Frigga were Norse goddesses of love and were the Teutonic equivalent of the Greco-Roman Venus/Aphrodite. However, Freya was one of the Vanir—the gods of fertility who supervised the land and sea—and she was the leader of the Valkyries. Frigga, Odin’s wife, was the goddess of the heavens and of married love. She was one of the Aesir—the gods associated with battle, magick and the sky. Freya and Frigga could be looked upon as different aspects of the same goddess. They both were called on to assist in childbirth and then in naming of the new baby. Frigga represented the faithful wife and loving mother, while Freya, who really captured the hearts and imagination of the Norse people, was the passionate mistress and lover.
Fridays classically are days for love, fertility, romance, and beauty magick, as well as working for happiness, harmony in the home, and friendship. So let’s take a look at some of the mythology involved with this loving, voluptuous, passionate, and luxurious day of the week, and see where it leads us.
Book of Witchery – Spells, Charms & Correspondences For Every Day of the Week
Ellen Dugan
This first harvest festival, the festival of Lugh, was known as Lughnasadh (pronounced loo-nah-sa) to the Celts. You may see many alternate spellings, as well as different names altogether, for this sabbat, and there is also the Irish alternate spelling Lunasa. In Gaelic, Lunasa is the name for the month of August. In addition, this festival was known as Lammas to the Anglo-Saxons. Lammas is considered to be roughly translated as “loaf mass.”
Lugh is a Celtic solar god. This deity is a talented, handsome craftsman and master of myriad skills. One of his titles is Lugh Long Arm, as he holds a magick spear of thunderstorms; another is Lugh “the bright and shining one” who brings the crops to ripeness.
It is interesting to note that Lugh is aligned with the Roman Mercury, who is a trickster god. Both of the gods were considered to be multi-talented deities as they are both healers, blacksmiths, magicians, poets, and warriors. Lugh was considered the inventor of all of the arts. Artisans, bards, and crafters can call upon Lugh when they need help. Lugh’s consort is the nature goddess Rosmerta.
Legend says Lugh started the harvest festival that bears his name in honor of his foster mother, and it was traditionally held on August 1. The harvest season was vitally important during medieval times, as a successful harvest would ensure that your family survived the coming winter. If the harvest was abundant, part of it could be sold or traded for goods and other supplies. It was, in effect, currency. As a modern Witch this notion may seem a little antiquated to you, but honestly it should not. The harvest is still vital to today’s world and economy. Think about it the next time you go to the grocery store to select your fresh produce. Depending on the success of the fruit and vegetable crops, the prices may be higher or more reasonable.
According to oral history, this first harvest festival of Lugh lasted for weeks during the harvesting season, and activities included horseracing, fairs, crafts, and, of course, food. From the traditions of this old community first-harvest tradition came one of the modern eight sabbats that we celebrate today.
Occasionally you can find references to Lugnasa Sunday, or Garden Sunday linked in to this holiday. In keeping with the Anglo-Saxon loaf mass theme, in days past folks were thought to leave offerings of harvested grain, or of bread to their gods, and as Christianity took hold, they would bring in a loaf of bread to be blessed at their church that was freshly made from the newly harvested grain crop.
Lughnasadh was also a popular time for visiting sacred wells, fertility magick, marriages and divination. As the harvest season begins, we come to realize that summer is fading into autumn. The sun’s power is on its annual descent and the daylight hours are starting to decrease.
Astrologically speaking the sun has entered the “power point” of the zodiac and is in the mid-point of Leo.
Seasons of Witchery: Celebrating the Sabbats with the Garden Witch
Ellen Dugan
“Now is the time of the First Harvest,
when bounties of nature give of themselves
so that we may survive.
O God of the ripening fields, Lord of the Grain,
grant me the understanding of sacrifice as you
prepare to deliver yourself under the sickle of the
goddess and journey to the lands of eternal summer.
O Goddess of the Dark Moon,
teach me the secrets of rebirth
as the Sun loses its strength and the nights grow cold.
I partake of the first harvest, mixing its energies
with mine that I may continue my quest for the starry
wisdom of perfection.
O Lady of the Moon and Lord of the Sun,
gracious ones before Whom the stars halt their courses,
I offer my thanks for the continuing fertility of the Earth.
May the nodding grain loose its seeds to be buried in
the Mothers breast, ensuring rebirth in the warmth
of the coming Spring.”
“Lammas celebrates the first wheat or barley harvest of the year and the skills of those who tend them. Baking and sharing bread, feasting with neighbor, and honoring the still-powerful forces of the summer sun’s light, and are key elements of this cooperative, community-based sabbat. Corn and wheat dollies made from the last sheaves and stalks of harvested grain are kept through winter to be planted with the first seeds of spring. These organic Goddess figures powerfully affirm the reverence for the Earth’s cycles of birth, death, and renewal. The celebrations, which feature a break from toil, contests of skill, laughter feasting, and dancing, are tempered by the knowledge that most crops are still growing in the fields with no guarantee of adequate abundance for the long winter. Lughnasadh’s energy of cautious optimism and feeling of well-being bring out the best in all people. The sabbat mingles the expansion of vibrant summer energy with the gathering energy of the upcoming season. The result is a unique time for solidly expanding toward focused goals, such as perfecting and challenging your skills.”
Friday (Venus): Love, friendship, reconciliation, and beauty.
Pardon of the Birds (French)
Waning Moon The Waning Moon (from the Full Moon to the New) is a time for study, meditation, and little magical work (except magic designed to banish harmful energies).
Moon Phase: Fourth Quarter
Moon Sign: Gemini Gemini: Things begun now are easily changed by outside influence. Time for shortcuts, communication, games, and fun.
“The grain to harvest’s cutting falls
to make the bread for banquet halls.
We’ll save some seeds where life’s waiting,
and plant a new field come next Spring.
We shared the work we needed to do,
and now we’ll share the eating too!
Thank you, fruit, and thank you bread,
for making sure that we are fed.”
– Asleen O’Gaea, Celebrating the Seasons of Life: Litha to Lammas
Thoroughly clean, dust, tidy up, refreshen, improve, and add appropriate seasonal decorations to your home altar. This should normally be clean and tidy, however an extra cleaning before the Lughnasadh celebration is a way to express your reverence, create a visible reminder of your thoughts and devotional practices, and to offer hospitality to the nature spirits, ancestors, and Shining Ones. If you don’t have a home altar, read some books and webpages about setting one up in your home or garden, and then establish one this holiday season.
A large fire is often lit in your safe outdoor fireplace as part of celebrating Lughnasadh. Take special care because many areas are quite dry in early August. Maybe use a few fireworks left over from the Fourth of July in America.
Love magick is a perennial popular topic. However, there is more to this topic than meets the eye. There are many enchanting layers here for us to explore on this day of the week. What about creating a loving home, or producing a loving and nurturing family? What about keeping your intimate relationships vital and on track? How about promoting happy, healthy, and enduring friendships? See, there is more to be considered than just the “You shall be mine…” type of fictional love spell.
Don’t forget that many of the deities associated with Fridays are also parents. So, yes, while this is the day to work on romance, sex, and love spells, there is additional magick to be considered here, which makes Fridays a more well-rounded and bigger opportunity for witchery than many folks ever truly realize. The truest, strongest magick always comes from the heart.
Book of Witchery – Spells, Charms & Correspondences For Every Day of the Week
Ellen Dugan
Witches Of The Craft® 
You must be logged in to post a comment.