Author: ladyoftheabyss

Imbolc/Candlemas Comments General Activities for Imbolc

Imbolc/Candlemas Comments

General Activities for Imbolc

Place a lighted candle in each and every window of the house, beginning at sundown on Candlemas Eve (February 1) , allowing them to continue burning until sunrise.

Hold a candle-making party and then bless all the candles you’ll be using for the whole year.

This is one of the traditional times for initiations and rededications into the Craft.

Take a hike and Search for Signs of Spring.

Decorate a plough and place on your doorstep.

Perform rites of spiritual cleansing and purification.

Weave “Brigit’s crosses” from straw or wheat to hang around the house for protection.

Make a potpourri for Imbolc by taking a piece of fabric, filling with dried leaves, pine cones, and fruit peels. Tie with a ribbon.

 

Solitary Activities

Make Candles

Research Fire Deities of your Tradition or pantheon.

Private Meditation and/or Ritual

Place lighted Candles in all the windows of the house

 

 

Group Activities

Hold a Ritual with your Group, and mark the perimeter of the Circle with lighted candles.

Make candles together with your group. If you’re really ambitious and have the time, try to make enough candles to last you until next Imbolc.

Hold an Imbolc Candle Ritual for Solitaries

Imbolc/Candlemas CommentsHold an Imbolc Candle Ritual for Solitaries

Hundreds of years ago, when our ancestors relied upon the sun as their only source of light, the end of winter was met with much celebration. Although it is still cold in February, often the sun shines brightly above us, and the skies are often crisp and clear. As a festival of light, Imbolc came to be called Candlemas. On this evening, when the sun has set once more, call it back by lighting the seven candles of this ritual.

** Note: although this ceremony is written for one, it can easily be adapted for a small group.

First, set up your altar in a way that makes you happy, and brings to mind the themes of Imbolc. You’ll also want to have on hand the following:

Prior to beginning your ritual, take a warm, cleansing bath. While soaking, meditate on the concept of purification. Once you’re done, dress in your ritual attire, and begin the rite. You’ll need:

Seven candles, in red and white (tealights are perfect for this)
Something to light your candles with

A large bowl or cauldron big enough to hold the candles
Sand or salt to fill the bottom of the bowl/cauldron

If your tradition requires you to cast a circle, do so now.

Pour the sand or salt into the bowl or cauldron. Place the seven candles into the sand so they won’t slide around. Light the first candle. As you do so, say:

Although it is now dark, I come seeking light.
In the chill of winter, I come seeking life.

Light the second candle, saying:

I call upon fire, that melts the snow and warms the hearth.
I call upon fire, that brings the light and makes new life.
I call upon fire to purify me with your flames.

Light the third candle. Say:

This light is a boundary, between positive and negative.
That which is outside, shall stay without.
That which is inside, shall stay within.

Light the fourth candle. Say:

I call upon fire, that melts the snow and warms the hearth.
I call upon fire, that brings the light and makes new life.
I call upon fire to purify me with your flames.

Light the fifth candle, saying:

Like fire, light and love will always grow.
Like fire, wisdom and inspiration will always grow.

Light the sixth candle, and say:

I call upon fire, that melts the snow and warms the hearth.
I call upon fire, that brings the light and makes new life.
I call upon fire to purify me with your flames.

Finally, light the last candle. As you do so, visualize the seven flames coming together as one. As the light builds, see the energy growing in a purifying glow.

Fire of the hearth, blaze of the sun,
cover me in your shining light.
I am awash in your glow, and tonight I am
made pure.

Take a few moments and meditate on the light of your candles. Think about this Sabbat, a time of healing and inspiration and purification. Do you have something damaged that needs to be healed? Are you feeling stagnant, for lack of inspiration? Is there some part of your life that feels toxic or tainted? Visualize the light as a warm, enveloping energy that wraps itself around you, healing your ailments, igniting the spark of creativity, and purifying that which is damaged.

When you are ready, end the ritual. You may choose to follow up with healing magic, or with a Cakes and Ale ceremony.

 

 

By Patti Wigington, Paganism/Wicca Expert
Originally published & owned by About.com

Group Ritual To Honor Brighid at Imbolc


Imbolc/Candlemas CommentsGroup Ritual To Honor Brighid at Imbolc

This ritual is designed for a group of individuals, but could easily be adapted for a solitary practitioner. Imbolc is the time between Yule and the Spring Equinox, the halfway point in the dark months of the year. It’s the time when the days suddenly seem to be getting longer, and the snow is beginning to melt, showing us small patches of earth and green. At this time of returning spring, our ancestors lit bonfires and candles to celebrate the rebirth of the land.

In many areas of the Celtic world, this was the fire feast of Brighid, the Irish goddess of hearth and home. She is the keeper of the flame, the protector of the home, and a goddess of holy wells and springs. At Imbolc, we acknowledge her many aspects, especially that of her role as a deity of transformation. As the world awakes from the dark slumber of winter, it is time to cast off the chill of the past and welcome the warmth of spring.

Cassia is part of a Pagan group in New York that honors Brighid each year with a small, private ceremony at Imbolc.

She says, “We see the Imbolc season as a time of change and renewal. It’s when we’re all coming out of hibernation, getting off the couch and peeking out the window to see if the snow has started to melt yet. We try to do a ritual each year on Brighid’s feast day, and we honor her as the keeper of the hearthfire that kept us warm and fed all winter.”

To do this ritual, set up your altar with the symbols of Brighid and the coming spring — a Brighid’s cross or dolly, potted daffodils or crocuses, white and red yarn or ribbon, young fresh twigs, and lots of candles. Also, you’ll need an unlit candle for each participant, a candle to represent Brighid herself, a plate or bowl of oats or oatcakes, and a cup of milk.

If you normally cast a circle in your tradition, do so now. Each member of the group should hold their unlit candle before them.

The HPs, or whoever is leading the rite, says:

Today is Imbolc, the day of midwinter.
The cold has begun to fade away,
and the days grow longer.
This is a time in which the earth is quickening,
like the womb of Brighid,
birthing the fire after the darkness.

The HPS lights the Brighid candle, and says:

Bright blessings at midwinter to all!
Brighid has returned with the sacred flame,
watching over home and hearth.
This is a time of rebirth and fertility,
and as the earth grows full of life,
may you find abundance on your own path.
Imbolc is the season of lambing, of new life,
and a time to celebrate the nurturing and warmth of Brighid.

At this time, the HPs takes the cup of milk, and offers a sip to Brighid. You can do this either by pouring it into a bowl on the altar, or by simply raising the cup to the sky. The HPs then passes the cup around the circle. As each person takes a sip, they pass it to the next, saying:

May Brighid give her blessings to you this season.

When the cup has returned to the HPs, she passes the oats or oatcakes around in the same manner, first making an offering to Brighid. Each person takes a bit of the oats or cakes and passes the plate to the next, saying:

May Brighid’s love and light nurture your path.

The HPS then invites each member of the group to approach the altar, and light their candle from the Brighid candle. Say:

Come, and allow the warmth of Brighid’s hearth
to embrace you.
Allow the light of her flame
to guide you.
Allow the love of her blessing
to protect you.

When everyone has lit their candle, take a few moments to meditate on the warmth and nurturing nature of the goddess Brighid. As you bask in her warmth, and she protects your home and hearth, think about how you will make changes in the coming weeks. Brighid is a goddess of abundance and fertility, and she may help you guide your goals to fruition.

When you are ready, end the ceremony, or move on to other rituals, such as Cakes and Ale, or healing rites.

By Patti Wigington, Paganism/Wicca Expert
Article orignally owned & published by About.com

 

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How to Hold a Rededication Ritual for Imbolc

Imbolc/Candlemas Comments

How to Hold a Rededication Ritual

Imbolc is a time, for many Pagans, of new beginnings. Spring is looming close by, new life is beginning to stir beneath the surface of the land, and it’s a season for spiritual reawakening. If you’ve already dedicated yourself to the gods of your magical tradition, why not use Imbolc as a time of rededication? By reaffirming your commitment to the deities of your pantheon, you can reawaken the sense of wonder and magic that may have been lying dormant through the cold dark months of winter.

Note: If you’re part of a group that is initiating new members, you may want to try this Group Initiation Rite instead.

This rededication ritual is designed for use by a solitary practitioner, but can easily be adapted to group practice. If you’re a solitary dedicating for the first time, try our Self-Dedication Ritual.

Bear in mind that rededication is a commitment you are making. It is a way of symbolizing that you are dedicated enough to the gods of your tradition to continue honoring them throughout the coming year.

The purpose of this ritual is to reaffirm that commitment, and is not something to be done at random or without significant thought beforehand.

You may choose to perform this ritual skyclad; at Imbolc it is often too chilly for ritual nudity, so another option is to wear a simple ritual robe. This will allow you some freedom of movement as needed. Find a quiet place to perform this rite, where you will be free of distractions like cell phones and children. You will need the following items:

One plain candle for each of the deities you wish to honor
An offering of some sort, depending on your gods

If your tradition requires you to cast a circle, do so at this time.

Begin by grounding yourself. This is a way of focusing yourself and reconnecting. Shut out all the things from your mundane life that are distracting to you – focus on the Self, and your relationship with your gods and goddesses.

Your god/goddess candles should be on your altar or workspace. A brief note here about selecting candles to represent the gods: many Pagans, including Wiccans, honor a god and a goddess, and so would use two candles. If your tradition or belief system honors multiple gods, feel free to use as many candles as necessary. Likewise, if you honor a single divine being, use a single candle. If you wish, you can use colored candles – for many people, the goddess Brighid, is represented by the color green, so you may wish to incorporate a green candle into a rite honoring her. If you honor Mars, the Roman god of war, you may choose to use a red candle. Use whatever color is appropriate; if you’re not sure which color to select, use basic white.

One at a time, light the candles representing your gods. As you light each candle, say:

I call upon you, [deity’s name], as one who walks your path.
I am [your name], and once more I pledge myself to you this night.
I will walk by your side, honoring you as I may, and ask only
That you watch over me as one who pays you tribute.
I thank you, [deity’s name], and again I promise you service.

You may also want to personalize your pledges to your gods – for example, if you were honoring the Morrighan, you may wish to include something about protection and strength. A call to Lugh might include a comment about skills and craftsmanship. Tailor your rededication pledges as needed.

Next, present your offering to the gods of your tradition. This will vary, depending on which gods your tradition honors, and what they demand in tribute. As you present your offering, place it in front of the candle(s) representing the gods. Say something along the lines of:

Hear me, O great gods! I call upon you, [names of deities],
And offer you this gift.
I present to you my tribute of [offering], as a token of my dedication.
Know that I will honor you and ask nothing in return,
Beyond your watching over me.
Hear me, great gods, O [names of deities], and know that
I, [your name], am your servant/ your priestess/ your child/[other appropriate description].
Please, accept my offering.

Take some time to meditate. Feel the afterglow of the ritual, and feel the energy of the gods around you. You have brought yourself to the attention of the Divine, so they will be keeping an eye on you. Be sure you can uphold any pledges you have made to them during this ceremony.

 

 

 
By Patti Wigington
Article originally published and owned by About.com

Astronomy Picture of the Day – After Galaxies Collide

Astronomy Picture of the Day

Discover the cosmos! Each day a different image or photograph of our fascinating universe is featured, along with a brief explanation written by a professional astronomer.

2017 February 2

NGC 1316: After Galaxies Collide
Image Credit & Copyright: Steve Mazlin, Warren Keller, and Steve Menaker (SSRO / UNC / PROMPT / CTIO)

 

Explanation: An example of violence on a cosmic scale, enormous elliptical galaxy NGC 1316 lies about 75 million light-years away toward Fornax, the southern constellation of the Furnace. Investigating the startling sight, astronomers suspect the giant galaxy of colliding with smaller neighbor NGC 1317 seen just above, causing far flung loops and shells of stars. Light from their close encounter would have reached Earth some 100 million years ago. In the deep, sharp image, the central regions of NGC 1316 and NGC 1317 appear separated by over 100,000 light-years. Complex dust lanes visible within also indicate that NGC 1316 is itself the result of a merger of galaxies in the distant past. Found on the outskirts of the Fornax galaxy cluster, NGC 1316 is known as Fornax A. One of the visually brightest of the Fornax cluster galaxies it is one of the strongest and largest radio sources with radio emission extending well beyond this telescopic field-of-view, over several degrees on the sky.

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Earth Sky News for February 2nd: Groundhog Day has roots in astronomy

Groundhog Day has roots in astronomy

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Ah, Groundhog Day. On this Groundhog Day – February 2, 2017 – will Punxsutawney Phil – called the world’s most beloved seasonal prognosticator by his handlers in Punxsutawney, Pennsylvania – see his shadow? If not, it means spring will come early this year … at least, according to folklore.

Groundhog Day, a U.S. and Canadian tradition, comes every year on February 2. It has its roots in astronomy, in the sense that it’s a seasonal festival, tied to the movement of Earth around the sun. It’s a great excuse to go outside and enjoy some revelry during the winter months.

Punxsutawney Phil, the great weather prognosticator. We all know the rules of Groundhog Day. On February 2, a groundhog is said to forecast weather by looking for his shadow. If it’s sunny out, and he sees it, we’re in for six more weeks of winter. On the other hand, a cloudy Groundhog Day is supposed to forecast an early spring.

Of course, it can’t be cloudy, or sunny, everywhere at once. And many towns in the U.S. and Canada have their own local groundhogs and local traditions for Groundhog Day.

But by far the most famous of the February 2 shadow-seeking groundhogs is Punxsutawney Phil in Punxsutawney, in western Pennsylvania, which calls itself:

… original home of the great weather prognosticator, His Majesty, the Punxsutawney Groundhog.

Since 1887, members of the Punxsutawney Groundhog Club have held public celebrations of Groundhog Day. Punxsutawney is where Bill Murray was in the movie Groundhog Day. From the looks of things … a good time is had by all.

How accurate is Phil? NOAA’s National Climatic Data Center says Phil’s forecasts have shown no predictive skill in recent years.

AccuWeather, on the the hand, says the groundhog is a better-than-average predictor, with an 80 percent accuracy rate.

Groundhog Day has its roots in astronomy. What you might not know is that Groundhog Day is really an astronomical holiday.

It’s an event that takes place in Earth’s orbit around the sun, as we move between the solstices and equinoxes. In other words, Groundhog Day falls more or less midway between the December solstice and the March equinox. Each cross-quarter day is actually a collection of dates, and various traditions celebrate various holidays at this time. February 2 is the year’s first cross-quarter day.

Of course, the division of the year into segments is common to many cultures. Our ancestors were more aware of the sun’s movements across the sky than we are, since their plantings and harvests depended on it.

Groundhog Day in various cultures. In the ancient Celtic calendar, the year is also divided into quarter days (equinoxes and solstices) and cross-quarter days on a great neopagan wheel of the year. Thus, just as February 2 is marked by the celebration of Candlemas by some Christians, such as the Roman Catholics, in contemporary paganism, this day is called Imbolc and is considered a traditional time for initiations.

The celebration of Groundhog Day came to America along with immigrants from Great Britain and Germany. The tradition can be traced to early Christians in Europe, when a hedgehog was said to look for his shadow on Candlemas Day.

Try this old English rhyme:

If Candlemas Day be fair and bright, winter will have another flight. But if it be dark with clouds and rain, winter is gone and will not come again.

Or here’s another old saying:

Half your wood and half your hay, you should have on Candlemas Day.

In Germany it used to be said:

A shepherd would rather see a wolf enter his stable on Candlemas Day than see the sun shine.

There, a badger was said to watch for his shadow.

A friend on Facebook said that, in Portugal, people have a poem about February 2 related to the Lady of Candles. Here’s the poem:

Quando a Senhora das Candeias está a rir está o inverno para vir, quando está a chorar está o inverno a acabar. [Translation: If she smiles (Sun) the winter is yet to come, if she cries (Rain) the winter is over]

One final note. It’s supposed to be bad luck to leave your Christmas decorations up after Groundhog Day.

The National Geographic Society once studied the groundhog and found him right only one out of every three times. But what the heck? It’s all in good fun.

So whether you celebrate with a real groundhog and a real shadow – or just pause a moment on this day to reflect on the passing of the seasons.

Bottom line: Groundhog Day comes every year on February 2. It has its roots in astronomy, in the sense that it’s a seasonal festival,

 

EarthSky

The EarthSky team has a blast bringing you daily updates on your cosmos and world. We love your photos and welcome your news tips. Earth, Space, Human World, Tonight.

Originally published on EarthSky

Your Charm for Thursday, February 2nd is The Inscribed Amulet

Your Charm for Today

Today’s Meaning:
This aspect is affected by a narrowly averted dangerous situation. The dangerous event could be a personal confrontation or even an accident you narrowly miss.

General Description:
In ancient times inscribed charms were believed to possess great potency and influence. Some Egyptian written amulets have been found dating as far back as the 12th dynasty, some 2,500 years B.C. and at the present time great numbers of these inscribed amulets are still in use in Egypt. Our picture is of one of the Graeco-Roman period dating 400 years B.C. It is a formula which gives instructions as to the course to follow in the outer world in order to obtain bliss and immortality, and worn to avert danger.

Your Ancient Symbol Card for February 2nd is The Eastern Dragon

Your Ancient Symbol Card for Today

The Eastern Dragon



The Eastern Dragon derives its symbolism from eons of rich, Asian culture. The Eastern Dragon is a revered creature who brings good fortune and power to those under its influence. It influences situations by supplying courage, nobility and perseverance. The Eastern Dragon is the most Yang of creatures in Chinese mythology, and represents the male character at its strongest and best.

As a daily card, The Eastern Dragon foretells a period of abundant prosperity. This is a time when your goals can not only be attained but surpassed. If you use your energy wisely, your courage with discretion, and refuse to give up your ambitions will be satisfied.

Shuffling the Cards, Your Personal Pyramid Cards for Thursday, Feb. 2nd

Your Daily Pyramid Reading

 

Today’s Theme

Four of Cups

A period of rest in your life and dissatisfaction with material gains. Re-evaluation of your goals.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Today’s Challenge

Ace of Coins

Prosperity, pleasure and beauty can be realized.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Today’s Ally

Five of Coins Reversed

The reaquisition of worldly possessions after trying times and much labor. Benevolence. The awakening of the spiritual self.

Your Crowley Thoth Tarot Card for Thursday, Feb. 2nd is The Star

Your Crowley Thoth Tarot Card for Today

The Star



The Star represents a strong connection to the Cosmos, an open gateway to understanding “the big picture.” It is an optimistic card that promises peace, harmony, and hope realized. For the full power of the forces behind The Star to be realized one must have faith and accept that in cosmic terms all things balance out; that disturbances are sometimes necessary to ensure overall harmony. The reward for such faith is vision on a Cosmic scale, and sense of well-being that may well radiate to those around you through your warm, untroubled heart.

Learn the Tarot – Temperance

Temperance

The time is now for self-healing.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

General Meaning

The Temperance card is a reference to the soul. Classically female, the woman or angel on the Temperance card is mixing up a blend of subtle energies for the evolution of the personality. One key to interpreting this card can be found in its title — a play on the process of tempering metals in a forge.

Metals must undergo extremes of temperature, folding, and pounding, but the end product is infinitely superior to impure ore mined from the earth. In this image, the soul volunteers the ego for a cleansing and healing experience, which may turn the personality inside-out, but which brings out the gold hidden within the heart.
In the Advice Position

Identify and acquire the ingredients that will most help you complete your mission and leave the rest behind.

The card in the Advice position suggests a course of action which will harmonize what you want with what is currently possible.

The Temperance card advises you to identify and seek the missing ingredients in your life. Marshal your known skills and abilities and do what needs to be done to complete your mission.

Prepare to use spiritual practices, studies, or lifestyle changes that can assist you in your quest. A tremendous amount of benefit is available if you can organize yourself and be disciplined at this time.

 

Part of the Daily Insight Group

©Tarot.com 2017. All rights reserved.

Your Tarot Card for Thursday, February 2nd is The High Priestess

Tarot Card of the Day

The High Priestess

February 2nd, 2017

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The High Priestess is a Major Arcana, or “trump” card, that represents human wisdom. The High Priestess can be viewed as a kind of female Pope (a Papess), or the ancient Egyptian Priestess of Isis, the even more ancient snake and bird goddesses, the Greek goddess Persephone, or Eve, before the fall.

For the accused heretics who were burnt at the stake for revering her in the 14th and 15th century, the Priestess symbolized the prophecy of the return of the Holy Spirit, which was perceived as the female aspect of the Holy Trinity.

In terms of the Major Arcana ordering of cards, The High Priestess appears in the sequence as soon as the Fool decides he wants to develop his innate powers, making a move toward becoming a Magician. The High Priestess is his first teacher, representing the inner life and the method for contacting it, as well as the contemplative study of nature and spiritual mystery.

 

Part of the Daily Insight Group

©Tarot.com 2017. All rights reserved.

Get A Jump On Tomorrow, Your Daily Horoscopes for Friday, February 3rd

Get A Jump On Tomorrow…..

Your Daily Horoscopes for Friday, February 3rd

 

Aries

Aries Horoscope

It’s important to keep in mind the tendency to gloss over practical details today, dear Aries, unless you’re simply daydreaming and enjoying yourself. Speaking too soon about a matter should also be avoided, as your understanding of a situation can be incomplete. You’re particularly excited about new ideas and possible plans, particularly related to partnering and your career, and this should be encouraged. You’ll need to make refinements later so that they fit into your schedule, but for now, it’s about the bigger picture. Avoid promising too much or nitpicking with a significant other. If something appears a little too good to be true, it may very well be, so wait out big decisions. You may not be agreeing with someone on your long-term plans, and while this should be addressed, try not to put too much weight into it at the moment.

Taurus

Taurus Horoscope

In the first half of the day, there is a strong tendency to blow things out of proportion or to overstate, dear Taurus. Communications ruler, Mercury, forms a challenging square with extravagant Jupiter, pointing to possible misjudgments. Even so, their conflict can stir up some wonderful enthusiasm and good ideas, even if these require some adjustments to come down to earth. If you’re simply daydreaming and exploring possibilities, and it’s a feel-good thing, then you’ll be fine. You may be defending your ideas, which can be energizing but could also lead to moodiness if nobody’s truly listening to one another, which is very likely with today’s energies. Be moderate in your expectations. The Moon moves into your sign this evening, bringing emotional needs to the front burner.

Gemini

Gemini

The first half of the day is likely to find you optimistic and enthusiastic, dear Gemini. However, there can be some moodiness as you may be working with incomplete information. Exaggeration may stem from a desire for more meaning to our lives or possibly some attention, and this may be an issue today. You may want to make big promises to make someone happy, but it’s best to keep things real today. Even so, do stretch your imagination and consider new possibilities. You can come up with exciting ideas now. Creative activities fare nicely now. When it comes to relationships, you don’t need to go overboard to please someone who is worth the effort. Tonight, the Moon moves into your sector of rest and privacy, pointing to the need to relax and de-stress.

Cancer

Cancer

There can be some restlessness stirred today, dear Cancer, which might lead you to interesting places but may only serve to lead you astray if you’re not mindful. New discoveries and interests or great ideas may emerge, although they will likely need to be refined or edited later. There can also be drama with a partner or with family, particularly due to disagreements or debates. With Mercury in your partnership sector, you might often want to share decisions with someone else, but today, avoid letting someone else make the decisions for you. As well, avoid making or relying on promises. Later today, you’re in a wonderful position to enjoy good company.

Leo

Leo Glyph Symbol Horoscope

Mental restlessness can lead to exciting discoveries today, dear Leo, but you might also misjudge a situation. It’s best to allow your mind some exercise as it’s wont to do today but wait to make final decisions. A project may need a second look, and you may need to make adjustments to the time and energy allotted to it. There may be a sense that you have so many things to do that you don’t know where to begin. Try not to waste time on feeling overwhelmed – pick something small and work from there. When it comes to news or others’ overtures to you, double-check facts. It’s especially important that you avoid taking on too much or promising too much now.

Virgo

Virgo Symbol Horoscope

With Mercury’s square to Jupiter today, dear Virgo, there is a tendency for people to exaggerate, jump to conclusions, or to buy into big ideas. Stay positive, but try not to take promises to heart. You may be seeing things too optimistically or impractically now, which can lead to poor decisions, so wait things out if you can. A situation with a child or lover can have much more to it than meets the eye. Judgment about money may be off, and the tendency today is towards excess. Creatively speaking, your ideas are quite brilliant, but you may not have all the resources, particularly time, to implement them just yet. Be patient about putting exciting new plans into action.

Libra

Libra

An idea can take hold of you today, dear Libra, and you can be quite enthusiastic. However, it’s important that you consider the practical side of a situation before investing too much of yourself or your resources into a new idea or project. The potential for going over the top runs high right now. Remind yourself of your usual limits, and while pushing them a little can be fine, try not to push too far. You may be feeling very capable, but your energy and enthusiasm levels may not always run so high, so significant commitments should be avoided just for now. Do, however, think up big ideas and plans that you may not even consider on a regular day.

Scorpio

Scorpio Horoscope

There is a tendency to exaggerate something today, dear Scorpio, or to put too much into a particular line of thought or plan. Mental restlessness may be at the root of this as Jupiter forms a tense aspect with Mercury and challenges you to stretch your mind. Be sure you have all the facts before you move forward with something important to you. There can be a real tendency to say something prematurely or to talk ahead of yourself. Your trust that others understand you can lead to miscommunications. Avoid making and investing in promises. It’s not the time to divulge sensitive information. Even though judgment can be off in the first half of the day, take this opportunity to dream up new possibilities.

Sagittarius

Sagittarius Horoscope

Your ruler, Jupiter, is in a difficult aspect with Mercury today, dear Sagittarius, and this can lead to misjudgments and miscommunications. These are unlikely to be too challenging, although it makes send to be aware of the tendency to exaggerate, promise too much, and neglect practical details. Optimism can lead you to take on more than you can reasonably handle. Many of you are expanding your connections these days, and this is a trend that will continue until October. You’re also full of ideas and plans, but today, you should watch for overdoing these things. Generosity is good, but extravagance is costly. Your plans or ideas can clash with those of a partner. Tune into optimistic energy, but avoid taking it to impractical levels unless it’s all in good fun.

Capricorn

Capricorn HoroscopeThere is a distinct tendency to overdo and overstate with us today, dear Capricorn. However, self-awareness can help you avoid going too far, and common sense – something you’re known for – can help you make better choices. Watch particularly for a tendency to say too much or to take on too many projects or commitments on personal and professional levels. You are ambitious these days, but you need to remind yourself of the limits of time and energy – even of enthusiasm. Jupiter’s influence today can really stir up excitement and motivation that’s useful now but transient. It’s meant to stretch your mind to consider new possibilities – to think in bigger terms than usual – after which you can shape and refine these ideas to fit your life.

Aquarius

Aquarius

There can be gossip to deal with today, dear Aquarius, or people may be blowing things out of proportion. Disagreements can get very big, very fast! Try not to invest too much into information coming in now. Take on a wait-and-see approach to discover what sticks. You could be imagining something that is unlikely to transpire, and while this can be an interesting exercise, it may cut into real life in challenging ways. The real problem may be inner restlessness or dissatisfaction. You’re looking closely at hidden meanings, but this may be taken a little too far. As long as you keep things fun and light without heavy expectations, then this is a good day to daydream and consider new possibilities.

Pisces

PiscesWatch for a tendency to go overboard with your projects, relationships, and money today, dear Pisces. A Mercury-Jupiter square challenges you to think in bigger terms than usual so that you can consider new ideas and plans. This influence can be useful as a mental exercise, but some self-control and common sense are necessary to keep things real. The tendency may be to live beyond your means on all sorts of levels, and judgment may be impaired. What you hear may be an exaggeration. Avoid too much people-pleasing, as this can take a lot out of you and leave you feeling dissatisfied. Dream but don’t invest your heart into something just yet.