The first century Greek physicians Galen and Dioscorides recommended it as a diuretic, wound healing herb, and a treatment for menstrual disorders. In the sixteenth century Paracelsus, who ushered in the era of mineral medicines, used St. John’s wort externally for treating wounds and for allaying the pain of contusions. St. John’s wort flowers at the time of the summer solstice, and in medieval Europe it was considered to have powerful magical properties that enabled it to repel evil.
Medicinal Uses: St. Johns wort is useful for bronchitis, internal bleeding, healing wounds, and for dirty, septic wounds. It is used to ease depression, headaches, hysteria, neuralgia, shingles, as well as symptoms that occur during menopause. It is useful in swellings, abscesses, and bad insect stings. Studies are showing that it may be effective in combating AIDS by increasing the immune functions of the body. It is taken to relieve the pain of menstrual cramps, sciatica and arthritis.
St. John’s wort is also used to treat circulation problems, bronchitis and gout.
Internally, St. John’s Wort is believed to be of benefit for symptoms of depression, anxiety, cough, digestion, bronchial problems, diarrhea, fatigue, flu, gout, insomnia, irritability, and ulcers. As an anti-depressant, it may take some time when used regularly to have any noticeable effects. A Tea can be made for any of the above symptoms using the leaves or flowers, and the dosage should be 1-2 cups morning and night until the symptoms retreat.
Externally, St. John’s Wort can be made into an Ointment for bruises, wounds, burns, hemorrhoids, sunburn, herpes sores, varicose veins, sciatica, and nerve pain. An Oil can be made to rub on areas affected by arthritis and rheumatism, inflammations, sprains, and massaged around the spinal cord for back pain symptoms.
The use of St. John’s wort can make the skin more sensitive to sunlight. People with a history of manic-depressive illness (bipolar disorder) or a less severe condition known as hypomania, should avoid use of St. John’s wort as it may trigger a manic episode.
Magickal uses: St. Johnswort is hung around the neck to prevent fevers. Wearing the herb aids you in war and other battles, including those of the will and indecision. Burnt it will banish evil and negativity. Hung in the home or carried, it will prevent spells of others from entering, and it is used in exorcisms. If you pick the plant on the night of St. John and hang it on your bedroom wall, you will dream of your future husband. The red juice of the stems was associated with the blood of John the Baptist, hence the plant’s name.
Properties: antidepressant, antiseptic, pain killer, and anti-viral agent. Contains hypericin and other dianthrones, flavonoids, xanthones, and hyperforin.
Growth: St. Johnswort is a perennial reaching 32 inches tall. It is grown throughout much of North America. It prefers rich to moderately rich soils, and full sun. It is not long-lived, so replant every few years. Harvest the leaves and flower tops as they bloom and store in air-tight containers.
Branwen, Daughter of Llŷr is a major character in the Second Branch of the Mabinogi, which is sometimes called the Mabinogi of Branwen after her. Branwen is a daughter of Llŷr and Penarddun. She is married to the King of Ireland, but the marriage does not bring peace.
Her story
The story opens with Branwen’s brother Bendigeidfran (Brân the Blessed), King of Britain, sitting on a rock by the sea at Harlech and seeing the vessels of Matholwch King of Ireland approaching. Matholwch has come to ask for the hand of Bendigeidfran’s sister Branwen in marriage. Bendigeidfran agrees to this, and a feast is held to celebrate the betrothal. While the feast is going on, Efnisien, a half-brother of Branwen and Bendigeidgfran, arrives and asks why there are celebrations. On being told, he is furious that his half sister has been given in marriage without his consent, and vents his spleen by mutilating Matholwch’s horses. Matholwch is deeply offended, but conciliated by Bendigeidfran who gives him a magical cauldron which can bring the dead to life; he does not know that when the dead are brought back, they will be mute.
When Matholwch returns to Ireland with his new bride, he consults with his nobles about the occurrences in the Isle of the Mighty. They are outraged and believe that Matholwch was not compensated enough for the mutilation of his horses. In order to redeem his honor, Matholwch banishes Branwen to work in the kitchens. Branwen is treated cruelly by her husband Matholwch as punishment for Efnisien’s mutilation of the horses, though not before she gives birth to an heir, Gwern. She tames a starling and sends it across the Irish Sea with a message to her brother and Bendigeidfran brings a force from Wales to Ireland to rescue her. Some swineherds see the giant Bendigeidfrân wading the sea and report this to Matholwch, who retreats beyond a river and destroys the bridges. However, Bendigeidfran lays himself down over the river to serve as a bridge for his men, uttering the gnomic words, “A fo ben, bid bont” (‘He would be a leader, let him be a bridge”). Matholwch, fearing war, tries to reconcile with Bendigeidfran by building a house big enough for him to fit into in order to do him honour. Matholwch agrees to give the kingdom to Gwern, his son by Branwen, to pacify Bendigeidfran. The Irish lords do not like the idea, and many hide themselves in flour bags tied to the pillars of the huge newly built house to attack the Welsh. Efnisien, checking out the house prior to the arrival of Bendigeidfran and his men, guesses what is happening and kills the hidden men by squeezing their heads. At the subsequent feast to celebrate Gwern’s investiture as King of Ireland, Efnisien in an unprovoked moment of rage throws his nephew Gwern into the fire.
War against Ireland
In the ensuing war, all the Irish are killed save for five pregnant women that lived in Wales who repopulate the island, while only seven of the Welsh survive to return home with Branwen, taking with them the severed head of Bendigeidfran. On landing in Wales at Aber Alaw in Anglesey Branwen dies of grief that so much destruction had been caused on her account, crying “Oi, a fab Duw! Gwae fi o’m genedigaeth. Da o ddwy ynys a ddiffeithwyd o’m hachos i” (‘Oh Son of God, woe to me that I was born! Two fair islands have been laid waste because of me!’). She was buried beside the river Alaw.
Bendigeidfran had commanded his men to cut off his head and to “bear it even unto the White Mount, in London, and bury it there, with the face towards France.” And so for seven years his men spent feasting in Harlech, accompanied by three singing birds and Bendigeidfran’s head. After the seven years they go to Gwales in Penfro, where they remain for fourscore (80) years. Eventually they go to London and bury the head of Bendigeidfran in the White Mount. Legend said that as long as the head was there, no invasion would come over the sea to Britain.
Branwen’s Grave
At Llanddeusant, Anglesey on the banks of the Alaw can be found the cairn called Bedd Branwen, her supposed grave. Now in ruins, it still has one standing stone. It was dug up in 1800, and again in the 1960s by Frances Lynch, who found several urns with human ashes. It is believed that if the story of Branwen is based on real events, these must have taken place during the Bedd Branwen Period of Bronze Age British history.
Never put asafoetida on the rocks in the sweat lodge.
Do not attempt to walk more than 10 paces while wearing all of your ritual jewelry, dream bags and crystals at the same time.
When proposing to initiate someone, do not mention the Great Rite, leer, and say, “Hey, your trad or mine?”
Never laugh at someone who is skyclad. They can see you, too.
Never, *ever* set the Witch on fire.
Looking at nifty pictures is not a valid path to mastering the ancient grimoires. Please read thoroughly and carefully from beginning to end so that your madness and gibberings will at least make some sense.
A good grasp of ritual and ritual techniques are essential! In the event of a random impaling, or other accidental death amongst the participants, (see next rule) a quick thinker can improvise to ensure successful completion of the Rite. Make them another sacrifice, Demons really love those those.
Watch where you wave the sharp pointy items.
Avoid walking through disembodied spirits.
Carry an all-purpose translator’s dictionary in case the ritual leader begins talking in some strange and unknown language.
Avoid joining your life force to anything with glowing red eyes.
If asked to sign a contract or pact and you are experiencing doubts or reservations, sign your neighbor’s name. Malevolent entities rarely ask for photo ID.
Blood IS thicker than water. Soak ritual garments an extra 30-45 minutes.
While drunken weaving may be mistaken for ecstatic dancing, slurring the names of Deities is generally considered bad form.
If the ritual leader should ask for a volunteer, resist the urge to raise your hand! While it is true that volunteering will most likely gain you stature and prestige amongst the group, thereby allowing you to advance quickly through the ranks, it is equally likely to get you strapped to a table and eaten alive by a drooling demonic horde.
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.
Explanation: On some nights, the sky is the best show in town. On this night, the sky was not only the best show in town, but a composite image of the sky won an international competition for landscape astrophotography. The featured winning image was taken in 2011 over Jökulsárlón, the largest glacial lake in Iceland. The photographer combined six exposures to capture not only two green auroral rings, but their reflections off the serene lake. Visible in the distant background sky is the band of our Milky Way Galaxy and the Andromeda galaxy. A powerful coronal mass ejection from the Sun caused auroras to be seen as far south as Wisconsin, USA. Solar activity over the past week has resulted in auroras just over the past few days.
The annual Quadrantid shower is nominally active during the first week of January, and is best seen from northerly latitudes. However, peak activity lasts less than a day. So you need to be on the night side of Earth when this shower exhibits its relatively short peak to witness the Quadrantids. In 2016, we don’t expect the waning crescent moon to seriously obtrude on this meteor shower. So if you’re game, try watching between midnight and dawn on January 4.
This meteor shower favors the Northern Hemisphere. That’s because its radiant point – the point in the sky from which the meteors appear to radiate – is far to the north on the sky’s dome.
The Quadrantid meteor shower is capable of matching the meteor rates of the better known August Perseid and December Geminid showers. It has been known to produce up to 50-100 or more meteors per hour in a dark sky.
So why isn’t the Quadrantid shower as celebrated as the Perseid and Geminid showers? It’s because the Quadrantid shower has a narrow peak that lasts for only a few hours. If you miss the peak – which is easy to do – you won’t see many meteors.
If you’re thinking of watching the Quadrantids, do it. Meteor shower peaks are rarely certain, and sometimes a gamble on a shower will reward you with a good show. Just be aware you might not see a whole lot of meteors! No matter where you are in the Northern Hemisphere, the best time to watch is between midnight and dawn, local time. Fortunately, the waning crescent moon shouldn’t intrude too greatly on the January 2016 Quadrantid meteor shower!
The Quadrantid shower is named after the defunct 19th century constellation Quadrans Muralis. If you trace the paths of the Quandrantids backward, they appear to radiate from a point where this constellation once reigned in the sky. If you wish, you can locate the Quadrantid radiant in reference to the Big Dipper and the bright star Arcturus.
But you don’t need to find the radiant to enjoy the Quadrantids. You need a dark, open sky, and you need to look in a general north-northeast direction for an hour or so before dawn. That’s the Quadrantid meteor shower – from late night January 3 to dawn January 4, 2016 – for the world’s northerly latitudes. Who knows? This shower can produce up to 50 or more meteors per hour, but its peak is rather short and sweet. Just before dawn on January 4, the waning crescent moon will be rather close to Mars, and you can use the moon and Mars to guide you to three more morning planets. Jupiter shines to the west of the moon and Mars, and the planets Venus and Saturn sit low in the southeast during the dark hour before dawn.
Bottom line: If you’re extremely lucky – and at the right northerly location on the globe – perhaps you’ll see some Quadrantid meteors in the predawn hours on January 4.
Bruce McClure is the chief writer for the popular EarthSky Tonight pages. Since joining EarthSky in 2004, he has written thousands of astronomy articles, enjoyed here by millions. He also writes, gives planetarium shows and hosts a wide assortment of public astronomy programs in and around his home in upstate New York. If you ask an astronomy question on our site, it’s likely to be Bruce that answers it. His love for the heavens has taken him to Lake Titicaca in Bolivia, and he has sailed the North Atlantic, earning his celestial navigation certificate through the School of Ocean Sailing and Navigation. Bruce is also a sundial aficionado. He says his number one passion – besides his wife Alice – is stargazing.
Page of Pentacles
Introversion. A healthy admiration for new ideas and scholarly pursuits. Reflective. Good management and organizational skills. A bearer of good tidings.
Othala
Othala represents a solid, immovable home, prosperity and safety. Good fortune based on your heritage and character is yours to enjoy.
The Swastika
Over the next weeks and months this aspect should be one that requires little effort on your part to keep things moving forward. This is one of the few charms that has the same meaning upright or inverted.
Your Daily Influences represent events and challenges the current day will present for you. They may represent opportunities you should be ready to seize. Or they may forewarn you of problems you may be able to avoid or lessen. Generally it is best to use them as tips to help you manage your day and nothing more.
Shuffling the Cards, Your Past, Present & Future Reading for Today
Past Influence whose impact on your life is waning.
The Lotus
The Lotus represents the spiritual self in its purest form. It reminds us that for most achieving a well developed spirituality is a journey which can be long and arduous. The spirit of the Lotus is not of our secular world, and the presence of The Lotus suggests that what is needed can be found by exploring your relationship with the Universe not as a physical entity pursuing material gain, but as a divine soul in need of celestial sustenance.
Present Influence whose impact on your life is very strong.
Strength
Strength denotes an inner power, mastery of will, development of inner might, and the ability to lead effectively. 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 overcoming hardship, and using well crafted persuasion to ease others to your side.
Future influence whose impact on your life is growing and will be very strong in the future.
The Owl
The powerful Owl easily makes its way through the darkest night on muted wings. Often it is only their haunting call echoing across the land that lets us know The Owl is near. Because of its amazing night vision, many cultures have attributed wisdom and the ability to uncover even the deepest secrets to the enigmatic, noble Owl. The Owl’s nocturnal prowess has lead many to see them as a messenger between the material and spirit worlds. Cultures as distinct as the African Zulus and ancient Celtics have ascribed magical powers to The Owl made them a revered companion to shaman and wizards
A much revered swami said “Simplicity is the nature of great souls.” There is a natural sense of art and genius in Simplicity. Keeping things simple produces solutions that are not only efficient but work well and are easy to maintain and build upon. Whether it takes a physical form or is an idea simple constructs please our aesthetic self. Simplicity is soothing, because you don’t have to fight your way through layers of complexity to see and understand the end result.
As a daily card, Simplicity indicates a time when you will do well by looking for simple solutions, and avoiding that which cannot be easily understood or implemented. In short, if a plan can’t get you form point A to point B without any side trips, then it is the wrong plan. Look for answers that you see immediately, that sets the proverbial light of in your head and makes you exclaim Eureka!
Meaning: In many cultures, the Star is a symbol of hope, dreams and destiny, and in the Witches Runes this symbol has a similar connotation. When the Star rune appears, it’s green light for you to go after what you want.
Note that the Star does not say you’ll get everything you want without any work. No. This symbol is a not about easy success, but about having faith in what you are doing – and doing it. In fact, the goals suggested by the Star are usually the highest and most significant ones – the ones that are hardest to get. It does not matter what the dream is, but its significance in your life. This symbol also represents ideals, and they can be both individual and collective ones.
In a more down-to-earth way, the Star is related to revolutions, changes, risks, speculation and all things motivated by faith and ideals. It can represent a sudden spark on inspiration, a windfall, a sudden rise to fame or a promotion. Though the sudden changes brought by the Star are usually positive, they are also fast: you can get back to point zero as quickly as you rose. So don’t be afraid to jump forward when the opportunity arises.
The Star urges you to take the risk, to have hope and to trust. After the staleness of Crossroads, the Universe finally begins to move again. If you believe in Higher Powers, this symbol shows that They are guiding you in this moment. The Star is a very positive rune, but in a more negative context it can represent revolution for revolution’s sake and the constant idealization of people and situations. It can also stand for excessive individualism when going after a dream.
In relationship readings, this rune represents hope and an idealistic kind of love. Usually the people involved in the relationship have high expectations about the other. They easily put their partner on a pedestal, only to feel frustrated when reality strikes. The Star can also represent unrequited love, or the love for someone who is unattainable. On the other hand, this rune tells you to not give up love entirely – keep looking, because someone is coming.
The Moon represents those forces which remain largely hidden to us. The light of the moon provides some illumination down a path into the unknown, but not enough to brighten the landscape like The Sun, or cut through the dark shadows from which the unexpected may leap. However, The Moon is not without gifts we can use. She spurs our imagination and creativity. She can be a portal to knowledge and experience beyond the realm of our everyday lives. But Her offerings are not available to the feint of heart. To receive what The Moon offers one must have the courage to follow uncharted paths and the intelligence to find truths hidden in a bewildering setting rife with illusion. For those who can make this journey the reward may be finding the key to making their dreams come true
Casting the Stones for Your Past, Present & Future Reading for Today
The Past Raidho
Raidho may mark the coming of a physical or spiritual journey. Whichever the case, changes in your life are soon to come. Spiritual or material goals may be attained.
The Present Fehu
Fehu is the Rune of prosperity, good luck and unbridled creative energies. Being associated with Frey, this Rune is also a powerful omen of fertility. Fehu is one of the three Mother Stones and should never be taken lightly.
The Future Sowilo
The Sun Rune, denotes power and strength. That which you want may be attained. Sowilo also denotes mental clarity and added warmth to your relationships.
Ehwaz represents movement. You may be closing in on reaching your current goals. Your life may be changing for the better. Harmony with others should come easy for you at this time.
Additional information about Today’s Rune, Ehwaz…..
ANALYSIS: The horse has been a powerful symbol in nearly every culture and every age. They were often believed to draw the sun about the heavens. Strong, swift and loyal, their relationship with humankind is unique. They allow us to perform tasks that would normally be beyond our strength, and to travel distances that would normally be beyond our reach. The mare symbolizes fertility and fecundity, and the stallion is the epitome of virility and raw energy. It is an animal that never lost its power by being domesticated.Like the sun which is its counterpart, ehwaz represents energy and motion. In this case, however, there is also respect for the source of the power to be considered. This is not merely an impersonal energy source – it is a living, breathing thing whose needs and desires must be taken into consideration, rather than be simply used as a slave. This is the power that was given by the God at algiz, and this rune reminds us of our oath to only use it to help, never to harm. Like the two-edged sword, the horse is a powerful tool, but must be carefully controlled to avoid harming yourself or other. It is tempting to just go barrelling along recklessly, but to do so is to risk loosing that power forever. This is the balance that must be achieved on the path of pure magic.
The Wheel of Fortune represents that aspect of life that is directed by forces and events we may not understand or even be aware of. In short, The Wheel deals with chance—those occurrences that manage to alter even the most structured of lives, usurp man’s “best laid plans.” While the effects of The Wheel are unpredictable, the outcome is always change; sometimes for the better, sometimes for the worse. Our path through life is never a ride down a perfectly straight highway. Sometimes we may even experience hairpin turns or complete reversals of direction. The Wheel of Fortune is strong reminder that despite our plans, the Universe has its own agenda from which we cannot escape participation.
When The World or The Fool are among your personal cards, the influence of The Wheel of Fortune may be increased. Having The Hierophant or The Emperor in your personal cards may diminish the influence of The Wheel of Fortune.
There is good energy with you today for strategy, planning, and determination, dear Aries. However, later tonight and into tomorrow, with Mercury turning retrograde and challenged by Mars, there can be some temptation to rush through something, or to lash out with angry comments, and to otherwise be impatient and impulsive. Resist the temptation to be impulsively extravagant, as it’s only a temporary fix to restlessness. If insecurity arises today, consider that it might relate to money or dependency issues. Look for positive solutions and aim to keep your mind peaceful, as it’s the only way to truly learn and gain insights into your problems. Mercury will retrograde from the 5-25, and in the next few days, there can be a review of an old friendship or possibly the return of an old friend for some of you.
Taurus
Taurus
There is some easygoing energy available to tap into today, dear Taurus, largely involving connections with a partner and family. However, there is some building tension that requires self-control, as disagreements are quite possible, particularly with authority figures or about long-term goals. Rushing and impatience are likely at the root of problems now. Try not to over-think things. Stick to the simple today and tomorrow. It’s important to wait for important statements or conversations, as Mercury is about to turn retrograde, and is in tense aspect with assertive Mars. Don’t take what others are saying now to heart, either.
Gemini
Gemini
While there is good energy for research, work, and organization today, dear Gemini, there can be some roadblocks to face as the day advances and tomorrow as well. This is because Mercury is about to turn retrograde and is challenged by assertive, impulsive Mars. You may be your own worst enemy now if you say the first thing that comes to mind, for example. People around you can be disagreeable. Aim to quickly forgive slights, as they are likely due to unexplained tension or impatience and restlessness. You may believe you’re making sense, and you might even feel that something has to be expressed urgently, but it’s better to think things through before jumping to conclusions and actions today.
Cancer
Cancer
You can be feeling quite free to be yourself, dear Cancer, and to move at your own pace much of the day. However, there is somewhat difficult energy with us as the day advances and into tomorrow. Mercury is turning retrograde and is challenged by Mars, and this can stimulate quick assessments and conclusions, and rudeness or impatience with others, particularly if they are not agreeing with us. There is a tendency to be a little too controlling or on edge. Your communications may be quite passionate today, but watch for what you are saying, which may end up being a little regrettable later on!
Leo
Leo
Be careful how you communicate today and tomorrow, dear Leo, as there can be some arrogance to your tone whether it’s intentional or not. Conversely, you may be picking up the same kind of tone in others’ communications. Allow for the possibility that words can be too easily misinterpreted. Also prepare for the possibility of adjusting your plans, as wires can get crossed today and plans can turn around. A significant other may grate on your nerves, perhaps due to aggressiveness or impatience, and the tendency is to react defensively. Mercury is approaching a retrograde station in your partnership zone and is challenged by Mars. The best strategy now is to slow yourself down and wait to make important statements.
Virgo
Virgo
There is good energy available today for working rather passionately on a personal or professional interest, dear Virgo. Misunderstandings are all too likely later today, however, so try to focus on the positive things, including the extra energy you have to apply to work, studies, and hobbies now. Try to remember that people may not be meaning what they say, or saying what they mean! Your ruler, Mercury, is about to turn retrograde, and at the same time is challenged by impulsive Mars. The tendency is to jump to action prematurely, or to speak about something too soon or too sharply. We can all benefit from avoiding pushing things now.
Libra
Libra
Good energy is with you in the first half of the day for practical matters, taking things easy, and appreciating a slower pace, dear Libra. However, later today and into tomorrow, there is somewhat chaotic and volatile energy with us. Impulses are quick and sharp, but possibly too hasty and based on poor judgment just for now. This is a time when you could speak too brusquely or prematurely about something that leads to regrets later, or you could just as well be on the receiving end. Try to wait things out. You can feel especially defensive if your plans or methods are challenged now.
Scorpio
Scorpio
There is natural and flowing energy with you much of the day, dear Scorpio, for creative expression. However, some restlessness can be stimulated now, and there can be a real feeling of frustration or boredom with your routines. Be careful not to make too much mischief as a result, as it is all too easy for conflict and needless irritation to be stirred later today and into tomorrow. Don’t be afraid to stand up for yourself, but do it without defensiveness, if possible, for best results. Watch for hasty actions and communications, as both can trip you up now.
Sagittarius
Sagittarius
While the energies of the first half of the day can be mild and possibly healing, dear Sagittarius, later today, there can be something nagging at you – a frustrating problem from the past that hasn’t been resolved, for example. Be especially attentive and aware, and above all, avoid pushing too hard. People can be rather contrary, and this can follow you into tomorrow. This may not be intentional at all, and in fact, we may be quite certain that we know what we are talking about, but the chances of seeing something the wrong way are high right now. Relationships that have fallen into ruts can be difficult to take today. Look for creative solutions to problems with restlessness.
Capricorn
Capricorn
The first half of the day can be quite fine for communicating with others sensitively, dear Capricorn, and for tuning into your own intuition. However, things change quite drastically later. An issue surrounding values, money, or questions of ownership can frustrate. You can be quite temperamental about whether others value you, as you have a stronger need these days for being treated with respect, and this can be agitated today. Watch today and tomorrow for a tendency to jump to conclusions, to speech, and to action, when a more careful approach would be best. It’s easy to misunderstand others and situations right now. Identify the root problem and start there, but if you notice unresponsiveness or defensiveness, wait for a better day to tackle major issues, as blockages are very likely to be felt right now.
Aquarius
Aquarius
There can be wisdom in your words and actions this morning, dear Aquarius, but as the day moves forward, we move closer to a Mercury station and a Mercury-Mars square that can stir the pot. Responsibilities and demands from others may seem to be flying at you from all directions today. You may be provocative or brusque in your communications, perhaps without even knowing it, or because others seem to be pushing you. Conflicts with authority figures may arise now. Impatience is probably your worst enemy tonight and tomorrow morning. A chaotic atmosphere can wear you down, so it may be wise to take breaks in order to center yourself, frequently if needed and possible!
Pisces
Pisces
Impatience with others should be watched later today and into tomorrow with Mercury stationing and challenged by Mars. Try not to say or do things that invite negative reactions, or that lead to mistakes or tripping up. You might instead be meeting with temperamental and impulsive behavior from others. You or someone close to you may feel they need to fight for what they believe in or to defend their own methods. If things get competitive when you’d much prefer life to be more peaceful, then try to back out if you feel pulled in to an unnecessary argument now. Tensions may be the result of a need for both stability and emotional excitement, and a temporary inability to find a middle ground between the two.
You are playful, clever, and have a fabulous sense of humor. Youthful all of your life, while you respect age and seniority, you don’t always accept that you are aging! Because you are quite quick-witted, it is easy for you to discover that you can lie and get away with it at a very young age. It’s up to you how you choose to use your cleverness! Many of you are quite spiritual in your beliefs in your adult life. Freedom and independence are extremely important to you.
Famous people born today: J.R.R. Tolkien, Stephen Stills, John Paul Jones, Mel Gibson, Bobby Hull, Victoria Principal.
Mars, the planet of action and energy and your ruler, is now energizing your solar eighth house, dear Aries, and will continue to do so until March 5th. This pulls Mars out from its opposition to your sign, which has been in effect for a couple of months. It’s not the most favorable position for an Aries, but ideally you’ve had some help and support from others in your life and now you’re ready to take back the reins. In this new cycle, you are less inclined to act on impulse and more interested in using strategy when it comes to moving your plans forward. This can be a time in which power politics can be stimulated in a close one-to-one relationship, or arguments can occur over money or personal possessions, and it’s best to try to clear the air as soon as possible if this is the case. However, it can also be a good time to take charge of financial matters that you may have swept under the rug. Desires run more deeply than usual. Some of you could be meeting with stronger personalities during this time, and the confrontations that could result are learning experiences for you, or meant to draw out your own passions and desires. There can be good energy for those of you involved in research.
Taurus
Taurus
Mars, the planet of action and energy, is now energizing the sector of your chart that rules partnerships or others, dear Taurus, and will stay there until March 5th. This can be an animated time for relationships, and also a time for discovering your own passions and courage through another person. Problems that have remain unacknowledged or that have been festering have a way of surfacing during this cycle, and seem to demand immediate attention! It can also be a time in which you have more courage to pursue a relationship. Watch that you don’t pass the buck during this cycle – own and acknowledge your role in conflicts or strife that might emerge now. While during this cycle you might often feel that your life is in others’ hands, this is in fact an important time for recognizing the need for other people in your life, and for giving someone you trust a rein or two once in a while.
Gemini
Gemini
Mars begins its transit of your work and health sector today, dear Gemini, and will continue to animate this area of your solar chart until March 5th. It’s a good time to take on challenging projects that you may have been putting off. You have more initiative and energy for work projects, and can apply yourself with more vigor. You might also step up or begin a health and fitness program during this cycle. Conflicts can emerge if you push others to keep your pace, or push yourself too hard. Use this time to bring more confidence, action, and courage to your work and/or to your health routines.
Cancer
Cancer
Energetic Mars is now moving through your solar fifth house, dear Cancer, and will continue to do so until March 5th. This sector of your chart rules romance, pleasure, self-expression, and entertainment, and these areas of your life are invigorated now. You are more willing to take personal risks, with your heart and your creative impulses, but also possibly with money (watch this last one!). You are more outgoing and generally seize opportunities as they arise during this cycle. Romance can become heated, and this can be stimulating or challenging, depending on how you handle the energy. This more outgoing cycle brings smoother energy to most of your endeavors, as your direct approach tends to get you results.
Leo
Leo
Fiery Mars enters your home and family sector today, dear Leo, and will transit through this personal area of your solar chart until March 5th. Due to an upcoming retrograde of Mars, Mars will actually return to this sector for a lengthier visit from late May to early August. Expect a lot of extra energy for domestic matters during this cycle, and perhaps some conflicts if you don’t direct your energy into productive channels. You’re in a more self-protective and protective phase during this transit. Watch for a defensive manner, but do enjoy extra time spent on improving your home life. Expressing your desires, wants, and frustrations may not be as straightforward during this period. This can be a good time for entertaining in the home, although at times you could find that your home life is a little too busy. This morning is especially strong for matters of the heart.
Virgo
Virgo
Today, fiery Mars enters your communications sector, dear Virgo, influencing this part of your solar chart until March 5th. Due to an upcoming retrograde of Mars that starts in mid-April, Mars will return to this same sector from late May to early August, so you’ll have plenty of time working with this exciting, mostly supportive energy. During this cycle, you can get very fired up about your ideas, projects, and personal or mental interests. Pour your energy into intellectual tasks if you can, as you can get a whole lot done now, working with vigor and passion. Your daily routines and communications tend to speed up. Impatience on the road and/or with speech should be watched, and this is especially the case in the next couple of days. Be careful that you don’t use words as a weapon. Otherwise, it’s a time of super-charged motivation to move your projects forward, and of more courage to connect with others. This can be an especially active and busy time for learning, studies, errand running, and neighborhood or classroom involvement.
Libra
Libra
Energetic, go-getting Mars leaves your sign today and enters Scorpio, dear Libra, where it will transit until March 5th. During this cycle, you can experience a stronger desire for financial independence or you can be especially motivated to pursue a larger income and/or take action on money-making ideas. However, it can also bring impulsive energy to your spending habits, as the desire to accumulate objects can be heightened now. You might also be a little more possessive of people in your life during this cycle. Focus now on building rather than squandering your resources. Feel the increased courage to earn what you deserve. This cycle lasts until March 5th, but while Mars typically transits signs for about two months and then moves on, not to return for another two years or so, Mars will be returning to this sector again in late May. The second visit is due to an upcoming retrograde, and will last from late May to early August. Today is strong for feeling the enthusiasm to build up your resources and enjoy the fruits of your labor, but watch the next couple of days for sharp words or impulsive spending.
Scorpio
Scorpio
Mars enters your sign today, where it will transit until March 5th, dear Scorpio. Over the course of this energetic cycle, you’ll have plenty of chances to assert yourself and seek out what you want from life. Mars is your personal energy levels, initiative, and drive. Angry feelings might also be triggered during this cycle, and you might want to watch for overly hasty, impulsive, or impatient behavior. Otherwise, you can use this period to heartily pursue personal goals. This can also be a time when work, if you’re looking for it, comes to you, or you get medical attention or appointments. This transit brings with it a whole lot of energy, sometimes to the point of excess, and you’ll be in charge of managing it properly. You are clearer about what you’d like to do now, and more forthright and straightforward in your manner. Assert yourself but employ self-control, and take action on things that matter to you most.
Sagittarius
Sagittarius
You enter a cycle in which energy may be at a low point, dear Sagittarius, but in which you have the chance to take action on behind the scenes areas of your life. This transit lasts until March 5th, although Mars will return to this area of your chart later this year (from late May to early August) due to an upcoming Mars retrograde cycle. You may not be as clear or confident about your personal plans, or where to direct your energy during this cycle. This apparent slow-down should not be considered a stroke of bad luck. In fact, it’s a time for recharging your spirit, laying to rest those plans that have had their day in the sun or the ones that have simply outgrown their usefulness. For some of you, this can be a quiet or more private time for a romance. The Moon enters your privacy sector this afternoon, also pointing to a need to deal with matters of the past.
Capricorn
Capricorn
Some of the pressure and competitive feelings surrounding your work and responsibilities subsides now, dear Capricorn, with Mars’ move out of your career and reputation sector and into your sector of friendship, community, goals, and dreams today. Until March 5th, and then later from late May to early August, greater energy is with you when it comes to group efforts, activities with friends, teamwork, and work towards social goals. While there may be some competitive energies among friends, you can manage this better if you recognize the value of the team and consider ways to get involved or enlist help with your own projects. Social affairs can be animated and busy. You’re likely to come up with some very interesting plans for your future during this cycle. You’re also more inclined to fight for what and who you believe in at this time.
Aquarius
Aquarius
You are entering a highly competitive and energetic cycle today, dear Aquarius, particularly for professional matters. This cycle runs until March 5th, but due to an upcoming retrograde, it will return and be in effect from late May to early August as well. While conflicts can emerge during this period, particularly in business or with authority figures, this is a strong time for pushing yourself to improve and excel. You have more courage to go after what you want. Your ambitions are stimulated and you may be taking charge or leading. Some self-control can offset a tendency to be impatient with others or impulsive in your dealings. Be especially mindful of brusqueness in the next few days. Otherwise, enjoy this increase in ambition and sense of purpose. The Moon aligns with Mars this afternoon, and you can be feeling emotionally energized and enthusiastic about new projects or taking the initiative.
Pisces
Pisces
Mars, the planet of action and energy, is now energizing your solar ninth house, dear Pisces, and will continue to influence this area of your chart until March 5th. Due to an upcoming retrograde of Mars, Mars will actually return to this area of your chart for the period of late May to early August, so you will have plenty of time to learn to work with this energy. Mars is in harmony to your sign now, and this helps boost your ability to sidestep or overcome obstacles. This is a more courageous and braver time for you, so that you are more willing to seek out new adventures and experiences. It’s a good day for connecting emotionally with this energy with the Moon aligning with Mars this afternoon. Consider what you want to do and what seems feasible. Physical or challenging activities are favored now. Taking charge of your life comes more easily.
This will be a week of communication chaos! Here is the run down so you can make it through…
Tuesday, January 5: Mercury square Mars; Mercury Retrograde in Aquarius; Venus square Neptune; Sun conjunct Pluto
Mercury turns retrograde in Aquarius on Tuesday, and at the same time will square off with Mars, prompting angry and regrettable words if you’re not careful. The Sun conjunct Pluto on the same day might leave you feeling power hungry as well, while Venus square Neptune may cause you to turn a blind eye to a lover’s flaw.
Thursday, January 7: Sun square Uranus; Jupiter Retrograde
Then on Thursday, the Sun will square Uranus, bringing out the reckless rebel in everyone. However, be careful not to go overboard in your innovative zeal! Jupiter turns retrograde the same day. While this won’t erase Jupiter’s blessings, it will prompt us to look within more and re-evaluate what we truly believe in.
Friday, January 8: Mercury Retrogrades into Capricorn; Venus conjunct Saturn
On Friday, Mercury retrogrades back into Capricorn, where he’ll remain retrograde until January 25. It’ll be time to revise your goals and overall approach to a business endeavor. With Venus conjunct Saturn on the same day, you’ll certainly take a sober approach to finances and your love life as well.
Saturday, January 9: New Moon in Capricorn
Then on Saturday, a New Moon in Capricorn suggests a lovely opportunity to plant seeds. This is when you want to make your New Year’s resolutions, folks. The power of Capricorn will help you work hard to achieve them!
Page of Pentacles
Othala
The Swastika
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