Author: ladyoftheabyss

The Daily OM for April 18th – Shedding Light on Ourselves

Shedding Light on Ourselves
Parts that Don’t Want to Heal

by Madisyn Taylor

When we choose that which is not best for us, there can be a deep seated part of us that does not want to heal.

In almost every case, we know what is best for us in our lives, from the relationships we create to the food we eat. Still, somewhat mysteriously, it is often difficult to make the right choices for ourselves. We find ourselves hanging out with someone who leaves us feeling drained or choosing to eat fast food over a salad. We go through phases where we stop doing yoga or taking vitamins, even though we feel so much better when we do. Often we have no idea why we continue to make the less enlightened choice, but it is important that we inquire into ourselves to find out.

When we choose that which is not best for us, the truth can be that there is a deep seated part of us that does not want to heal. We may say it’s because we don’t have the time or the energy or the resources, but the real truth is that when we don’t take care of ourselves we are falling prey to self-sabotage. Self-sabotage happens unconsciously, which is why it’s so difficult to see that we are doing it. The important thing to realize is that this very part of us that resists our healing is the part that most needs our attention and love. Even as it appears to be working against us, if we can simply bring it into the light of our consciousness, it can become our greatest ally. It carries the information we need to move to the next level in our healing process.

When we recognize that we are not making healthy choices, we might even say out loud, “I am not taking care of myself.” Sometimes this is the jolt we need to wake up to what is actually happening. Next we can sit ourselves down in meditation, with a journal, or with a trusted friend to explore the matter more thoroughly. Just shining the light of our awareness on the source of our resistance is sometimes enough to dispel its power. At other times, further effort is required. Either way, we need not fear these parts that do not want to heal. We only need to take them under our wing and bring them with us into the light.

 

Source:
The Daily OM 

Pre-Programming & Programming Your Crystals & Gemstones

Pre-Programming & Programming Your Crystals & Gemstones

 

Prior to any specialized crystal programming, the following pre-programming is recommended:

* Program the crystal to receive Divine will so that the results will reflect actualization for the good of all.

* Program the crystal for protection in the light.

Programming

Programming is the process of instructing the energies of the crystal in the method in which to use its qualities of transformation, stability, and attunement.  Precise directions are required, or the response will be less than that which is intended.

The act of holding the crystal and intending to use it for a specific purpose is the simplest form of programming.Another method, primarily relevant to the programming of thoughts, and universal
energies which are inherent to the mineralogical formation, involves the following:

* Formulate a precise phrase which accurately describes the nature of the programming (i.e., other worldly communication, harmony, balance, love, special healing or protection for someone, etc.)

* Hold the crystal in the left hand (if left-handed hold the crystal in the right hand), relax for several minutes, initiate circular breathing, and center the consciousness. Consciously align the personal conscious awareness with the higher-self and/or other appropriate other-worldly beings.

* Ask for guidance, protection, and assistance in the programming process. Open the center of consciousness and allow receptivity to flow through to the inner being.

* Repeat the formulated phrase 20-30 times in succession while visualizing and feeling the desired effect of the program. (Be open to higher assistance during this process).  As the phrase is repeated, and energy field will build and culminate in the energy pattern necessary to represent the desired program.

* While maintaining full awareness of the energy field, bring total awareness and consciousness to the area of the third-eye or the heart chakra.  Place the crystal in front of the area of the third-eye or heart chakra and allow the self to feel the connection with it.

* Direct the energy field into the crystal for 30-60 seconds and allow the program to be transferred to within the crystal.  Intuitive recognition will signal when the transmittal is complete.

* Detach consciousness from the crystal and allow the universal energies to act.

Awakening & Charging Your Crystals & Gemstones

Awakening & Charging Your Crystals & Gemstones

 

Crystals can be awakened by:

* Impacting the crystal upon the energized sand of the ocean beaches and/or sand dunes.

* Sounding a meditative gong in proximity to the crystal (this method stimulates the activation of the resonance of the crystal).

* Gently sounding Tibetan prayer bells (or other bells) in proximity to the crystal (this method aligns the energy of the crystal structure so that it can be efficiently directed).

Charging

* Place the crystal on a large crystal cluster.

* Place the crystal in the center of a circle, where the circle is comprised of other crystals whose terminations are pointing toward the center.

* Place the crystal in sunlight and/or in the light of the moon; the days related to the summer and winter solstice. the vernal equinox, the autumnal equinox, the full moon, and the new moon are more heavily charged.

Cleansing Your Crystals & Gemstones

Cleansing Your Crystals and Gemstones

 

Here are a few methods for crystal cleansing.

* Take the crystal to the sea, cleanse in sea water (allowing the water to “wash” over it), and energize in the sun.

* Smudge the crystal (with sweetgrass, cedar, sage, incense, etc.). This method has been used for centuries by Native Americans and Native African tribal cultures.

* Soak the crystal in sea salt for 7-24 hours, rinse with pure water, and energize in the sun.

* Soak the crystal in saltwater for a duration of from one to seven days; this method uses approximately three tablespoons of salt to a cup of water (water must cover stones) in a glass container with the water and crystals in a location which will receive sunlight.

* Soak the crystals in brown rice for twenty-four hours; the rice balances and centers the energy, removing the negativity, while dissipating and transforming the negative to the positive.  (Upon completion of the “soak” the rice is purified and energized and is quite wonderful to eat).

Buy and Use Gemstones and Crystals to Activate Ancient Wisdom

Buy and Use Gemstones and Crystals

to Activate Ancient Wisdom

Before buying crystals and gemstones, it’s a good idea to plan how you are going to use them. Over time, you may want to build up a collection with sets of stones for different purposes because the particular energies that are intended for one use may not be relevant in another use. Write up a “shopping list” for your stone collecting before heading out the door. If you are like me, you’ll find that it is easy to get sidetracked like a kid in a candy stone when confronted with an array of beautiful crystals and gemstones.

People have been attracted to gemstones since prehistoric times. While beauty plays a part in their appeal, it is their energy that has a powerful impact on us. If you like to wear crystals or place gemstones around your house, you are aware of their power. The practice of gemstone feng shui combines the wisdom of gemstones and crystals with the ancient art of feng shui to invite positive change into your life. .

At its core, feng shui is a method to balance the dynamic, ever-changes forces of the natural world. Gemstones are perfect for feng shui work because they are formed through the powerful dynamic processes of nature. As a result, gemstones personify the energy of the elemental cycles that are utilized in feng shui. .

The ancient Chinese divided the universe into five elements: water, fire, wood, metal and earth. These elements embody the archetypal energies that shape all things and processes. Because of the manner in which certain gemstones are created, they invoke specific elemental energy. For example, peridot or obsidian invoke fire because both are born from volcanic action. In the case of peridot, it could also come from a fiery meteor. For the element metal, malachite or azurite can be used because they contain more than 50% of the metal copper. .

In traditional feng shui, balancing elemental energy is accomplished by positioning an element or an object that represents it in a particular location. In gemstone feng shui, gemstones and crystals are used in place of other objects. The feng shui tool used to apply gemstone energy to your environment is the Lo Shugrid, also called the Magic Square, which looks like a tic-tac-toe grid. .

The Magic Square divides space into nine sectors/directions that form a matrix of attributes and associations: .
North – Career and personal journey; Element, water; Gemstone, opal or pearl; .
Northeast –Wisdom and self-cultivation; Element; earth; Gemstone, andalusite or tourmaline; .
East – Family and community; Element, wood; Gemstone, jet or amber; .
Southeast – Prosperity and self/net-worth; Element, wood; Gemstone, jet or amber; .
South – Success and reputation; Element, fire; Gemstone, peridot or obsidian; .
Southwest – Relationships and partnership; Element, earth; Gemstone, andalusite or tourmaline; .
West – Creativity and children; Element, metal; Gemstone, malachite or azurite; .
Northwest – Achievement and benefactors; Element, metal; Gemstone, malachite or azurite; .
Center – Harmony and spirit; Element, earth; Gemstone, andalusite or tourmaline. .

To use the Magic Square, create a drawing of the floor plan of your home or just one room where you want to perform feng shui. With a magnetic compass determine the direction of north and orient your floor plan in the correct direction. Next, draw a Magic Square (tic-tac-toe grid) over your floor plan with the middle row of squares oriented north and south, and with the center square in the center of your floor plan. This will show you in what area of a room (or your house) to invoke particular elemental energy. Simply place one of your gemstones in the corresponding sector. .

The Magic Square also shows the basic proportions of elemental energy needed for balance. For example the earth element, which is vital for overall well-being (both physical and spiritual) occupies three of the nine sectors/directions. After all, it is the earth’scycles that we follow, and we are most healthy and strong when we are “grounded”. .

There are many sources for crystals and gemstones. New Age bookshops frequently carry them, as well as museum gift shops and earth science stores. Rock and fossil shops are great sources and you can count on them to correctly identify the less popular types of stones. Ask and look for notices of upcoming mineral shows or swaps, which are excellent venues for finding a stunning range of crystals and gemstones, as well as learning more about them. .

Once you have found a place to buy your crystals and gemstones, and have located one that is on your shopping list, take a few moments to hold it in the palm of your hand. Close your fingers over it or hold it between both palms to get a sense of its energy. Think of how you are planning to use it. If you are going to use it to represent the element water, think of water. If the stone still feels good as you think of an element, then it’s the right stone. Don’t expect a thunderbolt or choir of angels to let you know you’ve chosen the right one. Clues tend to be subtle. Or you just might “know” it’s the right stone for you. .

Also listen to yourself if something doesn’t “feel” right. You may not be able to pinpoint what it is about a particular stone, but if this happens it’s just not the right one with which you should do energy work. Don’t take it personally, just listen to your heart-of-hearts. .

Stones that you trade or receive from friends can be very special. Ones that you find yourself are gifts directly to you from Mother Earth. If you are not sure about the identification of a stone you find, take it to a rock shop and ask for advice. Don’t be shy, most rock hounds are happy to share their knowledge. Whatever way a stone comes into your life be sure to clean and prepare it for energy work. Even one that comes from your best friend should be prepared in order for it to react more richly and fully with your own energy. .

Your own energy is the most important ingredient in gemstone feng shui. Open yourself to the wisdom of gemstones and they will help you transform the energy around you. Go with the flow and enjoy their magic. .

 

Source:

Empathy’s Mystical Occult Site

Crystal Grid for Earth Healing

Crystal Grid for Earth Healing

Crystal grids are similar to mandalas; they are simply an arrangement of stones in a pattern for the specific purpose of directing energy toward a goal. The variety of combinations is limited only by your imagination. For this particular grid, however, we will use a pattern designed to honour the elements and send healing energy to the Earth.

Although this ritual can be performed at any time, it is ideal for an Earth Day celebration. It can be done alone or with a group. For a group working, each person can recite a part of the ritual and place a stone into the grid.

You will need one quartz cluster of any kind for the centre of the grid to symbolize the Spirit. Clear quartz is the ideal choice, but you can also use amethyst. Depending on your collection of stones and crystals, you may have a different stone in mind. Use your intuition to select a stone that best represents the Spirit to you.

Select four large stones to represent each of the four elements. You may want to choose these stones by colour or association. These can be mineral specimens or rocks you have collected. For example, geodes or stones worn by a river are good choices to represent Water. Amethyst is also often associated with the Water element. Red, orange, or metallic stones are good for Fire, or volcanic glass such as obsidian. Brown or green coloured stones, especially agates, are good choices for the Earth element, or a stone that you have collected from your backyard, something native to your area that represents the land. Yellow or clear stones are good choices for Air.

You will also need four quartz points of any size and the following eight connecting stones: Tourmalinated Quartz, Rhodocrosite, Gypsm, Chrysocolla, a Geode, a piece of Petrified Wood or a fossil, Lepidolite, and Smoky Quartz.

These are fairly common stones among mineral collectors and can be obtained for minimal cost from rock and gem shops. If you have difficulty finding any of these, feel free to use clear quartz as a replacement.

Cast a circle as you normally do, or create sacred space in your own way. Set the mood for your ritual by playing a recording of nature sounds, or perform the ritual outdoors if possible. Turn on a fountain if you have one – the sound of running water can also enhance the mood.

The four large stones you have selected to represent the four elements will be placed first. As you call each quarter, place the stone in the appropriate direction. Depending on your position, your grid will either be in the shape of a diamond or a square. Be sure you leave room in between for the connecting stones.

To invoke Spirit/Deity, place the quartz cluster in the centre, and say the following:

“The purpose of this ritual is to send healing energy to the Earth. This crystal represents the Spirit, the energy of all things – all things are connected. I empower this crystal with Earth-healing energy. May it flow forth and spread over the world to bring healing, harmony, peace and respect for all life.”

Next, use the following visualization – you can do this internally if you’re alone, or read it aloud to a group:

“Imagine the Earth flourishing and under our care instead of domination. Pure, clean waters and air, pollutants neutralized and safe, waste being recycled, energy being saved, animals and habitats protected, humans caring about their environment and being responsible for their actions. I (we) will build this grid to hold my (our) energy, and then release it.”

Next, each of the eight connecting stones will be added to the grid, stating the purpose of each as it’s put into place. Place each one next to an elemental marker stone. The end result will be four connected lines in the shape of a diamond or square. Between each elemental marker there will be a total of three stones – two connecting stones and one quartz point between each of them, to be placed last.

Tourmalinated Quartz: “To create a solving atmosphere for positive change.”
Rhodocrosite: “For Earth-healing, love and balance.”
Gypsm: “To end stagnation and promote progressive thinking.”
Chrysocolla: “To help all beings become attuned with the Earth.”
Geode: “To represent the Earth Mother and help us see the ‘big picture.'”
Petrified Wood: “For protection from environmental pollutants, to promote energy and enjoyment of life, strength, transformation – to change what we can – and for grounding, connection with the Earth.”
Lepidolite: “To facilitate harmony and a peaceful environment.”
Smoky Quartz: “For protection, especially for all creatures and natural resources.”
Finally, complete the grid with the remaining four quartz points to direct the energy outward. Place them with the points facing away from the grid. Chant the following words as each crystal is put into place:

Elements and Spirit praised,
healing energy be raised,
send it to our Mother Earth,
land that gives us life and birth.

Proceed with grounding in the manner of your choice, and close your circle with the following words, or some variation:

“Elementals and Deities, we thank you for your presence here, depart with our love and gratitude. The circle is open but unbroken; may this energy for Earth-healing grow as it spreads across the land. Merry Meet, Merry Part, and Merry Meet Again. Blessed Be.”

If possible, leave the grid in place for a few days or until you feel it has completed its work. It may be useful to build it on a piece of cardboard so you can simply move the cardboard to another location where the grid will not be disturbed. If you need to disassemble the grid right away, visualize any remaining healing energy within the grid being dispersed to the Earth.

 

Source:

Empathy’s Mystical Occult Site

A Little Humor for Your Day – ‘Two Widows’

Two Widows

 

Dorothy and Edna, two “senior” widows, are talking.

Dorothy: “That nice George Johnson asked me out for a date.? I know you went out with him last week, and I wanted to talk with you about him before I give him my answer.”

Edna: “Well, I’ll tell you. He shows up at my apartment punctually at 7:00 P.M., dressed like such a gentleman in a fine suit, and he brings me such beautiful flowers! Then he takes me downstairs, and what’s there but a luxury car… a limousine, uniformed chauffeur and all. Then he takes me out for dinner… a marvelous dinner… lobster, champagne, dessert, and after-dinner drinks. Then we go see a show. Let me tell you, Dorothy, I enjoyed it so much I could have just died from pleasure! ”

“So then we are coming back to my apartment and he turns into an ANIMAL Completely crazy, he tears off my expensive new dress and has his way with me two times!”

Dorothy: “Goodness gracious!… so you are telling me I shouldn’t go out with him?”

Edna: “No, no, no… I’m just saying, wear an old dress.”

 

Source:
JokeWarehouse.com

Daily Feng Shui News for April 18th – ‘Pet Owners Independence Day’

On ‘Pet Owners Independence Day,’ I’d like to share a secret that might give you relief from a dehydrated doggy while traveling. This advice suggests that you should actually begin this exercise a few days before leaving home. Put two to three drops of one hundred percent true peppermint essential oil into your dog’s water bowl — sorry, this one’s just for Fido, no felines allowed. And don’t forget to take the peppermint along. You can bring a touch of home along with you by putting a tiny bit of this oil in your dog’s water in order to soothe their stomachs and keep their sense of home intact.

By Ellen Whitehurst for Astrology.com

Your Daily Charm for April 18th is The Greek Vowels

Your Daily Charm for Today

The Greek Vowels

Today’s Meaning:
This aspect will be influenced by a sudden strong stroke of good fortune. This good fortune will be unpredictable and will last only a short time. It will bring with it good health, happiness and success.

General Description:
This talisman was a great favorite in olden times, and was composed of the Seven Vowels of the Greek Alphabet. The desired favours were supposed to be granted upon the correct utterance of the forty-nin different sounds of the Seven Vowels, each vowel having seven distinct methods of expression. Of the many benefits supposed to be conferred were – good health, happiness, wisdom, fortune, foresight, success in all undertakings, complete protection from moral, as well as physical ills, and control over the powers of darkness. The ancients thought that there was an affinity between the seven vowels and the seven planets which they believed kept this earth in existence.

Your Animal Spirit for April 18th is The Cougar

Your Animal Spirit for Today

Cougar

Cougar has long been associated with leadership. Cougars are powerful, agile, and unhesitating. When Cougar attacks, he throws one hundred percent of himself into the pursuit. Although cougar is strong, he is also elusive —hard to spot in the wild—until he decides to pounce. His lesson to you today is one of being a balanced leader—not rushing into the attack, not always lurking in the brush.

Your Ancient Symbol Card for April 18th is The Believer

Your Ancient Symbol Card for Today

The Believer

The Believer represents Faith and the realization that you have an important place in the workings of the Universe. Although The Believer may not always understand why things are the way they are, they none-the-less feel an underlying cosmic rhythm which is moving events in a direction that is good. The Believer rejoices in their celestial role, because they realize their life has purpose on a grand scale.

Today’s I Ching Hexagram for April 18th is 32: Endurance

32: Endurance

Friday, Apr 18th, 2014

hexagram09

 

 

 

 

 

Endurance is fostered when inner constancy is coupled with external flexibility. Long-distance runners must adapt readily to changing conditions, while maintaining an inner determination and strength of purpose. Two trees growing near each other adapt to enhance each other’s survival. A strong image of durability is a stable marriage of intimate partners striking a dynamic balance between involvement in the outside world and nourishment in the home.

True endurance is not based on rigidity, for endurance implies movement, not immobilization. Only by adapting to change can we stay in the race; but only by deepening our sense of purpose can we develop the fortitude to win it.

Continuity is achieved through movement, not by keeping still. That which has ceased to grow is close to death. Stay active, but allow yourself time to stay in touch with your innermost thoughts and feelings.

Today’s Tarot Card for April 18th is The Chariot

The Chariot

Friday, Apr 18th, 2014

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Traditionally, the card usually entitled the Chariot points to a triumphal feeling of freedom, as if the charioteer is being paraded through the streets as a hero (or heroine). The card reflects congratulations for high achievement, and serves as a sign of empowerment.

Huge wheels and frisky steeds speed the rate at which the driver’s willpower can be realized. This kind of charge makes more of the world accessible to anyone ambitious enough to seize the Chariot’s reins. But there is danger in this feeling of freedom, because of the increased rate of change and its power to magnify mistakes in judgment. As a seasoned warrior, the Charioteer is called upon to be extra attentive to the way ahead.

Your Weekend Love Horoscope for April 18 – 20

Weekend Love Horoscope

April 18-20: Playing for Keeps

Maria DeSimoneMaria DeSimone on the topics of love, horoscopes, astrology

 

The weekend will kick off under the influence of Friday’s Venus-Pluto link. This sexy connection promises intense, transformational love potential — especially for the Earth and Water signs! But even if you’re a Fire or Air sign, there’s something for you, as well. That’s because Friday will host an optimistic Sagittarius Moon that will be at a friendly angle to Mars, amping up the emotional/sexual quotient in your love life.

By Saturday, however, the Moon enters serious Capricorn, asking “What is the point?” If your love doesn’t have enduring substance, the fires of passion may quickly burn out. If it does, however, then on Sunday, when Jupiter squares Uranus and opposes Pluto, you may feel a sudden intensity that surprises you. You’re not interested unless you can be “all in.”

Unfortunately, with the tense aspects the Moon will make on Sunday, it might not work out according to your plan. Your sweetheart may resist if he or she feels controlled or smothered.

Get A Jump On Tomorrow, Your Horoscopes for April 19th

Minor annoyances early in the day may require our attention but we might not have a chance to finish what we start as more significant issues arise. Giant Jupiter’s long-lasting square to revolutionary Uranus is the main event for the next several days, rocking our lives with breakups and breakthroughs. Meanwhile, the Moon enters emotionally disciplined Capricorn at 9:27 pm EDT, making us very determined to take care of any unfinished business.

Aries Horoscope

(Mar 21 – Apr 19)

You don’t appreciate anyone trying to control you, but defending your territory today could escalate argumentative words into something more. A minor conflict may heat up way beyond its initial scope and then take days or even weeks to settle back down. Keep in mind that you can be honest and direct without being unkind. Practicing the art of compassion enables you to be part of the solution instead of the problem.

Taurus Horoscope

(Apr 20 – May 20)

You are extremely serious about making long-term plans today, even if other people seem resistant to your ideas. But you aren’t willing to wait for formal approval if you think that delaying the final commitment now could place your entire enterprise in jeopardy. Don’t panic; it’s not helpful to act impulsively when it comes to your future. If you push others too hard their support may be short-lived. Avoid getting swept up in a wave of change unless it’s going your way.

Gemini Horoscope

(May 21 – Jun 20)

Fundamental changes in a relationship may have already started to modify your attitude about expressing your emotions. If you usually prefer tap dancing your way around deep feelings because they make you uncomfortable, this is your chance to evolve in a profound manner. Consider spending more time exploring the shadows of awareness now that you know the real magic is hidden from the light of day. But keep in mind that you can’t start a serious dialogue until you open your heart.

Cancer Horoscope

(Jun 21 – Jul 22)

Although you’re often eager to sink into the subjective world of emotions, someone else may be one step ahead of you these days. But you’re not interested in being drawn into other people’s dramas today, especially if you already have too much on your plate. There’s a trick to being compassionate without giving away your power. Create whatever boundaries you need now in order to maintain your integrity and your sanity.

Leo Horoscope

(Jul 23 – Aug 22)

You might try to squeeze in some exciting activities today, but your calendar probably doesn’t have much extra room. You realize that the fun may be coming to an end for a while and you have an important role to play over the days ahead. But you’re stepping onto new ground, making it even more complicated to navigate your way. It’s less about getting your needs met now than it is about minimizing them so you can help others. Don’t harbor ill will toward those who could use your support; your positive attitude alone improves the situation.

Virgo Horoscope

(Aug 23 – Sep 22)

Scheduling spontaneous playtime may seem like an oxymoron, but a more structured approach to your day gives you the stability you need to let loose. Having some fun at home is a great idea now as long as you acknowledge what everyone else wants too. But don’t try to talk anyone into following your game plan; just stick to your agenda and invite your inner artist out to play. Once others see you having such a good time today, they will naturally want to join in.

Libra Horoscope

(Sep 23 – Oct 22)

Give yourself the luxury of not adhering to a calendar for a while. Even if you have valid reasons why you should stay at home today, everyone else is heading out to have fun. As much as a part of you wants to fit into the group dynamic, it’s more critical now for you to reconnect with what’s in your own heart. You’re tempted to deal with your dilemma on a purely intellectual basis, but it’s much healthier to keep your emotions in the mix. Although it might surprise others, a little time alone may be just what you need to figure out what you really want.

Scorpio Horoscope

(Oct 23 – Nov 21)

You could try to ride the brakes today, but oddly enough slowing down just seems to make everything feel more intense. Protecting your money or property may be an important theme now, but make sure that you’re not just reacting out of fear. Separating your emotions from your current need for stability helps to prevent you from getting carried away by your expectations. Anything can happen if you remain open to the element of surprise.

Sagittarius Horoscope

(Nov 22 – Dec 21)

You are a person on a mission now and there’s little that will keep you from your self-appointed tasks. If you set your heart on a specific destination, you are sure that you can reach it no matter what the cost. However, it’s a smart idea to tread carefully because you might inadvertently hurt someone’s feelings in your haste. There’s nothing wrong with taking a little extra time to check in with those you love even if they’re acting like everything is fine. Success is sweeter when shared.

Capricorn Horoscope

(Dec 22 – Jan 19)

You may sense that your window of opportunity is closing fast and you haven’t yet received an acknowledgment for your contribution. Instead of waiting for others to say something today, do whatever is necessary to change your expectations and talk yourself out of your current need for recognition. You will be happier if you withdraw for a while to recharge your emotional batteries now instead of hanging your success on anyone else’s opinion. When it comes down to it, the only one you really need to impress is yourself.

Aquarius Horoscope

(Jan 20 – Feb 18)

Sometimes being a part of a group experience can be the most amazing thing in the world as your individuality merges with a larger cause. However, if others attempt to coerce you into supporting them now, hold firm to your position even if it means going your own way. Don’t do anything that doesn’t make intuitive sense to you. Even if you’re not so sure about your decision today, trusting your gut won’t likely lead you astray. It’s more essential than ever to dance to the rhythm of your own drum.

Pisces Horoscope

(Feb 19 – Mar 20)

Your friends and family might make you crazy today as they try to drag you into their personal battles. Fortunately, you have the sense to gauge what’s important now and for the weeks ahead. But don’t unilaterally put an end to an argument by just walking away to avoid it; denial only leads to bigger problems later. Spend some time in quiet contemplation so you can establish a whole new set of priorities. Reconnecting with others after you develop a healthier perspective enables you to remain grounded when you step back into the drama.

Your Horoscopes for Friday, April 18th

We continue to float on the currents of love but emotions intensify today as sweet Venus shifts her connection from optimistic Jupiter to passionate Pluto. A lighthearted attraction may deepen as we grow aware of the price we must pay. Fortunately, the philosophical Sagittarius Moon enables us to maintain a healthy perspective by focusing our attention on the future. Remembering our long-term goals helps us get through these challenging times.

Aries Horoscope

(Mar 21 – Apr 19)

You might not know what’s around the next corner, but you can see unexplored possibilities everywhere you look. Unfortunately, you don’t have enough time in the day to pursue every intriguing opportunity. Therefore, establishing priorities is the most crucial component to your happiness now. Luckily, the idea of slowing down and doing less sounds good to you today, making it easier to pare back your activities. Spreading yourself too thin could prevent you from finishing what you start. Choose quality over quantity for a change.

Taurus Horoscope

(Apr 20 – May 20)

You’re not too eager to jump into something new today even if you’re feeling more confident about a recent decision. It isn’t that you’re worried about the uncertainties ahead; it’s just that you have a better chance of achieving success if you take your time now and proceed slowly. Remember, there’s no reason to stress out because of someone else’s arbitrary schedule. Set a pace that works for you and then stick to it.

Gemini Horoscope

(May 21 – Jun 20)

People seem to have unrealistic expectations about what you might accomplish today, and you aren’t interested in arguing with them. Nevertheless, you don’t want to make yourself crazy by working extra hard when you know you can’t meet an impossible deadline. Even if it is uncomfortable to address the real issue up front, everyone will feel relieved if you do. Don’t turn your disclosure into a major drama; simply be honest and clearly tell others what you know you can deliver. Revealing your vulnerability is scary, but it will serve you well in the long run.

Cancer Horoscope

(Jun 21 – Jul 22)

You are often all too aware of your limitations, but may get so caught up in your eagerness to please today that you commit to more than you can possibly manage. Unfortunately, your good intentions aren’t enough to power you through the day, especially if you’re delayed by unforeseen obstacles. However, there’s no reason to sell yourself short. Don’t be too concerned about completing your tasks on time; it’s better to strive for perfection now than to sacrifice quality by rushing your work.

Leo Horoscope

(Jul 23 – Aug 22)

Your roar may be a bit muted today but, thankfully, no one seems to notice but you. Your coworkers see your positive attitude and unwavering commitment in action and they believe that you’re rock solid even if that’s not how you actually feel. However, it’s not a smart strategy to talk about your insecurities now; there’s no point in exposing your weaknesses unless you have no choice. You can improve your chances for success by keeping your feelings private for a few more days while you concentrate on giving the best performance of your life.

Virgo Horoscope

(Aug 23 – Sep 22)

You may have a clear picture of where you want to go now, but cannot find a direct route that gets you there quickly. All the roads before you appear more circuitous than you prefer. Fortunately, whatever path you pick will probably straighten out once you are on your way. The best strategy might be to just head off in the most sensible direction without worrying if you are making the right choice. There are many ways to reach your destination; just don’t forget to appreciate the scenery along the way.

Libra Horoscope

(Sep 23 – Oct 22)

Your illusions intertwine with reality today, making it tricky to separate fact from fiction. Paradoxically, it might not matter which is which because your visions have the potential to become real if you believe in yourself. Putting too much faith in the analytical data sets up artificial limits that could end up preventing you from realizing your highest potential. Thankfully, a bit of magical thinking now can inspire you to manifest your dreams.

Scorpio Horoscope

(Oct 23 – Nov 21)

Your emotions may settle down today, enabling you to concentrate on your backlog of work. But your newfound ability to remain objective doesn’t necessarily mean that production will be a piece of cake. You have to work extra hard for everything you want to accomplish now. Although setting your goals unrealistically high motivates you to reach for the stars, you could grow discouraged and give up too soon. Remember, dreams are wishes your heart makes, so don’t let the limiting thoughts of your head stand between you and success.

Sagittarius Horoscope

(Nov 22 – Dec 21)

You have the chance to catch up at work today if you roll up your sleeves and get busy. The Moon’s monthly visit to your optimistic sign can be revitalizing while she harmonizes with brilliant Uranus and energetic Mars. As long as you stay in motion, you should be fine. Don’t stop to think about what you’re doing; just continue to do it. Normally, logic is an essential tool for making decisions; however, it only clutters your path with confusion now. Instead of wasting time justifying your choices, simply remember that actions speak louder than words.

Capricorn Horoscope

(Dec 22 – Jan 19)

You may be struggling between two mindsets today. You can see the advantage of initiating decisive action based on your ambitious plans. Your organizational skills come to the rescue, enabling you to make substantial progress now. However, you also understand the risk of doing too much too fast. Nothing positive comes from erecting a house on an unstable foundation, so take your time and make sure you build it right.

Aquarius Horoscope

(Jan 20 – Feb 18)

Your friends and associates are eager to give you extra words of encouragement today. But you still need to maintain a healthy perspective on what you can finish or you could quickly burn yourself out in the process. Although positive feedback from your allies feels great, it might fill you with so much confidence that you take on one too many challenges. Proceed with caution; if it’s a great idea, it will look even better tomorrow. In the meantime, let others know how much you appreciate their support.

Pisces Horoscope

(Feb 19 – Mar 20)

Your compassion is normally one of your greatest strengths, but it could actually get in the way of your productivity today. Although the Moon’s visit to your 10th House of Public Responsibility encourages you to nurture nearly everyone, this is an impossible task. Nevertheless, you might wear yourself out trying to help more people than you can. Creating healthy boundaries is a crucial step in your current efforts to positively impact those who need you the most. Keep in mind that there’s a fine line between being a saint and being a martyr.