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.

2016 May 31

Stars and Gas of the Running Chicken Nebula
Image Credit & Copyright: Andrew Campbell

Explanation: To some, it looks like a giant chicken running across the sky. To others, it looks like a gaseous nebula where star formation takes place. Cataloged as IC 2944, the Running Chicken Nebula spans about 100 light years and lies about 6,000 light years away toward the constellation of the Centaur (Centaurus). The featured image, shown in scientifically assigned colors, was captured recently in an 11-hour exposure from a backyard near Melbourne, Australia. Two star clusters are visible: the Pearl Cluster seen on the far left, and Collinder 249 embedded in the nebula’s glowing gas. Although difficult to discern here, several dark molecular clouds with distinct shapes can be found inside the nebula.

Which moon phase best for stargazing?

We got this question:

Which phase of the moon would be best for stargazing, and why?

And the answer is … it depends on what you want to do. Some people enjoy watching the moon itself, as it waxes and wanes in our sky. Some enjoy the fact that the moon appears near bright stars and planets at certain times of the month. For instance, you can use the waning crescent moon tomorrow morning (June 1, 2016) to help guide you to the planet Uranus and the planet Mercury, as displayed on the sky chart below. However, you’ll need binoculars or a telescope to see Uranus from anywhere worldwide, and the Southern Hemisphere is now enjoying a fine morning apparition of Mercury (whereas the Northern Hemisphere is not).

The moon is now a waning crescent moon. Waning means the illuminated part is diminishing, whereas crescent means the moon is less than half-illuminated. The moon climbs over the eastern horizon in the wee hours before sunrise right now, meaning that most of the night is moon-free. New Moon will occur on June 5.

Moon-free nights enable astronomers to look at deep-sky objects, such as galaxies, star clusters and nebulae, so they like it when the moon is at or near new phase. It’s best to look at these faint fuzzies in a night sky with little or no light. The next new moon happens on June 16.

People using telescopes try to avoid the moon, because its glare interferes with the telescopic views of deep-sky objects. Especially around full moon, the moon casts a lot of light, washing out many nighttime treasures. At new moon, the moon is up during the day, not the nighttime. Around then, you won’t see the moon at all – unless you’re on just the right spot on Earth to watch a solar eclipse. But the last solar eclipse happened with the March 9 new moon, and the next solar eclipse won’t take place until September 1.

Bottom line: The best phase of the moon for stargazing depends on what you want to do. Some enjoy watching the moon itself. On the other hand, people using telescopes avoid the moon because its glare interferes with deep-sky objects.

Author

Deborah Byrd

Deborah Byrd created the EarthSky radio series in 1991 and founded the website EarthSky.org in 1994. Today, she serves as Editor-in-Chief of this website and blogs frequently about astrophysics, the night sky and other topics related to Earth, space and the human world. She has won a galaxy of awards from the broadcasting and science communities, including having an asteroid named 3505 Byrd in her honor. A science communicator and educator since 1976, Byrd believes in science as a force for good in the world and a vital tool for the 21st century. “Being an EarthSky editor is like hosting a big global party for cool nature-lovers,” she says.

Article published on EarthSky

The Wisdom of Buddha

An insincere and evil friend is more to be feared than a wild beast; a wild beast may wound your body, but an evil friend will wound your mind.

Today’s Witches Rune

The Star

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.

Additional Information About Today’s Witches Rune courtesy of Your Spiritual Journey Australia

Your Daily Influences
May 31, 2016

Five of Swords Reversed
Victories may be empty. False pride must be avoided. Sorrow is possible.

Jera
Jera denotes positive, recurring cycles, fertility and a time to harvest rewards from your hard work.

Magic Nails
The spirit of someone you knew dearly is trying to guide you in this aspect. In a dark room light a single candle and focus upon its light. Listen carefully with your heart and you will know what to do.

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.

Your Daily Charm for Today

The Tusk

This Estruscan talisman – a tusk carved in basalt, and elaborately mounted in gold filigree work – was worn as a protector from danger and evil influences. The charm was supposed to attract good fortune and success. The Tusk represented one of the horns of the Crescent Moon, which was a symbol of the Egyptian goddess Isis, who, in the course of time, became the most universal nad powerful of all the goddesses. The Estrucans, Greeks and Romans had great faith in the reputed virtues of amulets, a belief which was greatly influenced by the Egyptians.

Your Ancient Symbol Card for Today

Solitude

Solitude is represented by a single person standing at the end of a boardwalk staring out at a vast, empty panorama. They are truly alone, but may not feel loneliness. They are at a place in their life where the need to withdraw from the our secular world is strong, because their focus should be on their inner self, their morality, and their dreams. The view before them is empty, but it is a canvas on which they may paint their future–a future restricted only by the size of their imagination and courage. For them Solitude is a choice. They chose to take the walkway that distances them from the rest of us. It is also a choice that can be undone. Just as they chose to take a path that leads them away from us, they may choose to turn around and come back at anytime.

As a daily card, Solitude suggest a period in which you need to distance yourself from those around you and explore your inner-self, what is driving your day to day life and decide if you are really on the life path that is best for you. This is a time to revitalize your spirit, and draw your dreams for the future.

Get A Jump On Tomorrow…..

Your Daily Horoscopes for Wednesday, June 1st

Aries

Remind yourself of the need to feed your imagination and faith, dear Aries. Your more worldly concerns may need to wait. Watch that you’re not misunderstood, especially about issues from the past. Also watch that you don’t trick yourself into thinking something you want to believe, or ignore an important matter. News coming in may not be all that it appears at the moment. Wait and process things before making final decisions and conclusions. Look for hidden agendas. Tomorrow’s energies are similar, so if you can feed your creative urges, take a break, or otherwise tend to emotional and spiritual needs, you may benefit the most.

Taurus

Early today, you can feel especially connected, creative, and romantic, dear Taurus. It can be very easy to get others to go along with your plans and ideas. As the day advances, clarity tends to fade, particularly surrounding money and friendship matters. You might sense a hidden agenda with people in your life, or you may be itching to know how someone feels, but cues are hard to read or completely absent! Consider more imaginative, engaging ways to do, or drum up, business. Avoid letting others’ demands, beating around the bush, or complaints drain you. If it’s possible, put some of your worldly goals on pause so that you can take care of your emotional and spiritual needs.

Gemini

While there can be good energy for creative work, dear Gemini, practical matters may not fare as well, simply because you’re being nudged towards stronger consideration of your imaginative, emotional, and spiritual needs today. Lack of clarity on the job can affect you strongly now, and this may also play out with authority figures in general. Try not to project fantasies on people and situations, as you may make more of them than they deserve, good or bad. As well, the tendency to be indiscreet without intending to is rather strong right now. Avoid making a stand or show right now, as you may regret it later when your head is clearer. If goals are too far-reaching or not very clear now, take things a step at a time and entertain smaller, more realizable goals.

Cancer

There can be quite a play on your perceptions and beliefs today and in the next few days, dear Cancer. Today, there can be the strong temptation to turn on the emotional blinders about a matter that you don’t want to face just yet. While it’s best to avoid drawing conclusions for now, you should make extra effort to avoid glossing over important details as well. Try to assess a matter that seems too good to be true, or, alternatively, seems too fantastical to hold weight, before banking on it now. Consider that you may be tricking yourself when it comes to a belief or goal. Aspiring towards a goal is one thing, but if it’s preventing you from enjoying the moment, then you may need to make adjustments. This morning is strong for making contact and interactions with friends, who are on your side.

Leo

You may be struggling with what’s true and what may only be wishful thinking today, dear Leo, particularly when it comes to emotional attachments, relationships, and finances. This is not the time to be indiscriminate with your money, particularly when it comes to others handling it. Keep abreast of what’s going on with shared resources. Trust, of course, is important in a relationship, but sometimes others can slip. You might also need to draw some boundaries with people who may be pushing your limits. Today and tomorrow, there can be some confusion or inability to see clearly and focus. Questions of commitment and attachment can arise. This can be a reminder to take better care of spiritual needs before pushing forward with your goals, and this will be stronger the more you’ve neglected them in recent weeks.

Virgo

This week can serve, on some level, as a checkpoint, dear Virgo, for goals related to career and life path, partnerships, and home/family life, dear Virgo. Today and tomorrow, you can be dealing with possible illusions that have blinded you to progress and growth, or the viability of dreams. This can be a “foggy” day in the relationship and career departments. There may be important details that are hidden or omitted altogether, and these things can hurt you at a later date. Boundaries are tricky to draw with those close to you, but if you allow others to overstep them too often, they might keep pushing your limits to see how far they can go. Interactions can be laced with elements of guilt, deception, and insecurity, making it important to separate yourself from uncertain situations and to save making final decisions and conclusions for a later date. Today is strong, forever, for pursuing personal interests and connecting with friends.

Libra

The day should be just fine for personal enjoyment, dear Libra, if you can avoid making definite commitments. It is also important to not take things at face value, particularly interactions involving co-workers, contracts, and agreements. There is a lot of misleading information and speculation floating around you right now, and it’s better not to take any of it as final or decisive. Push the limits when it comes to creativity and feeling today, but avoid setting yourself up for disappointment as not everyone else may be on the same page. There is a cosmic push to experience more of life beyond your routines these days, but you may be battling low energy or a cluttered schedule that keeps you from doing so. It may be that you are discovering the need for more imagination in your daily affairs, work, and routines in order to better motivate you.

Scorpio

Confusing or confused signals are quite likely in love relationships today, dear Scorpio. Avoid giving them off and avoid taking what you experience today too personally. You may be passionately seeking an answer to a pressing issue, but pushing matters will not get you anywhere. Avoid putting your faith in promises made today, including those that are not explicit because they may only be extensions of your own wishful thinking. Imagination is powerful now, possibly to the point of self-deception, but if harnessed in the right direction, you can be highly creative. This is a time for looking within and finding ways to better satisfy your needs for imagination, creative expression, and spiritual meaning, even if this temporarily takes you away from pursuing your more worldly goals. Friendships may be more supportive than love connections just for now, but you are also in a good position to learn much about yourself and your needs through your love relationships and feelings, and your personal appeal is very strong.

Sagittarius

Whether or not to put your faith in someone or a situation can be a struggle today, dear Sagittarius, as the Sun and Neptune form a square. Tomorrow, Venus will do the same, so prepare for a couple of days of being on the fence. Emotionally complex relationships tend to be the most susceptible to ups and downs today, while the more superficial connections tend to do just fine. Insecurities may lead you to accept behaviors in others that cross lines – watch for this. Try to depend on yourself and tend to your personal goals rather than to focus too heavily on others. After all, you are the only one responsible for your happiness. Let go of the thought that you might get concrete answers or commitments from others right now, or even clear signals from within, and life will be a little easier. Enjoy the moment without expectations for best results now.

Capricorn

This morning brings lovely energy for communicating and connecting with helpful people and good information, dear Capricorn. As the day advances, and over the next few days, there can be some temporary confusion until you recognize your more spiritual goals. The material world needs attention, of course, but if you’re not all there, you may be making mistakes now. It can be difficult to stay on course, but a rest or time for reflection is important. This is not the best time for making important decisions, particularly revolving around health and work matters. Dream up possibilities, but wait for a clearer day for new initiatives or big steps.

Aquarius

The morning can be good for stimulating discussions and learning, dear Aquarius, particularly with or about family and personal matters. As the day advances, there is a tendency for fuzzy perceptions, particularly related to financial and emotional/romantic matters. Insecurities about relationship definitions or who/what is yours can affect your enjoyment now, as much as you want to believe in something or someone. Focusing on the tasks at hand may not come easily right now, but if something touches your higher ideals or inner dreams, you’ll feel considerably more motivated. Watch for the temptation to look the other way if faced with money problems, or to borrow from the future in order to satisfy an urge today and tomorrow.

Pisces

This morning, you can get your ideas across and come to a happy agreement with someone, dear Pisces. As the day advances, the Sun and your ruler, Neptune, close in on a square aspect, and this influence can challenge your goals or even your confidence temporarily. If you haven’t been paying enough attention to your spiritual and emotional needs lately, you could feel drained or lacking in direction. The key to taming inner restlessness is to truly understand what is causing the dissatisfaction. This involves digging deep, as many of the reasons we give ourselves for dissatisfaction are superficial and temporary. You may be feeling a little left out or disappointed until you recognize your true needs.

If Today is Your Birthday: May 31

Your clever mind and strength of character are traits that others tend to notice first, and that earn you respect. You are an engaging conversationalist, offering unique perspective on whatever topic is on the table. You are very capable and determined, and have a distinct traditional side to your personality.

Famous people born today: Walt Whitman, Clint Eastwood, Joe Namath, Lea Thompson, Brooke Shields, Colin Farrell.

Your Birthday Year Forecast:

With the Sun and Moon in harmony in your Solar Return chart, the year ahead should be satisfying and balanced overall. You are in comfortable demand and personally popular, and you are able to achieve a decent balance between work and play; personal and professional life. For the most part, you are on top of your game this year, and positive connections with others can be made fairly easily. With the ability to handle your emotions successfully, there is less stress on both your mind and body. Your self-confidence and positive attitude will reward you!

Relationships are in strong focus this year, and harmonizing with others especially important to you. Your charm and attractiveness can be in the spotlight, and artistic tendencies come to the fore.

Neptune continues to transit square to your Sun this year, until January 2017, and there will be times when you combat low energy and motivation levels. It’s important to be selective when it comes to projects or answering demands.  A noncommittal attitude in your personal life could leave people in your life feeling frustrated with you as you attempt to find yourself. Your self-image is being re-worked, and you are becoming more sensitive to a greater, perhaps more spiritual, sense of purpose. After January, this influence passes and you’re likely to enjoy more clarity and a stronger sense of purpose.

Your ability to express yourself and to solve problems is enhanced this year. You may have opportunities to travel, and matters related to publishing, teaching, and writing should go especially well. You may find that you have the right information at the right time this year. You could also have big ideas and plans, as your mind is filled with ideas. Work, especially in communications, goes well. Relationships with young people may be particularly rewarding and positive. An optimistic attitude serves you very well this year. The desire to expand your mind is strong, and this is a good year to take up studies or to further your education. It’s also excellent for teaching and speaking. With greater receptivity to new ideas and perspectives, you are more likely to attract positive energies into your life.

You have a stronger focus on, and dedication to, work in the period ahead, sometimes taking it a little too far. Taking the time to pull yourself away from your pet projects or work will help bring more balance to your life, and will ensure that you don’t neglect other important areas of life. However, you can make significant headway in specific areas this year, and you are likely to feel a strong sense of direction and purpose.

You are likely to be popular with others when it comes to your ideas and communications this year, especially as you are communicating with optimism and cheerfulness, and this can bring rewarding experiences and opportunities into your life.

There may be a project, idea, or person that demands much of your attention or occupies much of your thoughts. It’s a strong year for any project or studies that require concentrated effort. You are especially resourceful. You are willing to put in the effort and dedication to a mental interest or project. Business and promotional efforts can thrive. You can experience a strong desire to master a subject or deepen your knowledge and skillset.

Your unique manner of expressing and asserting yourself is in focus and appreciated this year. Suppressed anger is more effectively released in creative ways. Physical healing can help inner healing, and vice versa.

It is easier than ever to express your individuality in a manner that is true to you in the year ahead. This can be a strong period for learning, teaching, and sharing, and particularly good for publishing your ideas and work or for seeking advanced training. Communications projects can move forward. You are likely to make good contacts with others, particularly in love and friendship, and there is more dedication in your relationships.  

2016 is a Number Nine year for you. Ruled by Mars. This is a year of completion and transition. It is a time when we need to let go of things that no longer serve their purpose, and hold on to things that have a future. It is a time of cleaning out dead wood, not necessarily for new beginnings. It can be a time when a burden has been taken off your shoulders, and it can be a year of giving of yourself. Advice – let go of things that are holding you back, give of yourself and express your sympathetic, compassionate side.

2017 will be a Number One year for you. Ruled by the Sun. This is a year of action. The seeds you plant now, you will reap later. Others might find you less sociable, as you are busier than ever and you focus on your activities and your needs. Still, you are outgoing and your initiative is stronger than ever. Advice – Stand alone, take action, start fresh, express independence.

Courtesy of Cafe Astrology

Plants and Herbs for Your Zodiac Sign

An astrological guide to the benefits of Mother Nature

By Tarot.com StaffZodiac, Wellness, Summer, Spring, Health, Astrology

Which plants, herbs, fruits and vegetables are most helpful to YOUR zodiac sign? Each of the 12 signs can benefit from the properties of certain plants, which help to heal, grow, balance, and inspire. Look up your sign below and thrive by filling your garden, refrigerator, and home with these brilliant gifts from Mother Nature!

Aries (March 21 – April 19)

Aries is a Fire sign ruled by the planet Mars. Plants associated with this element and planet usually have thorns or prickles. They are also spicy or bitter in flavor or are red in color. Because Aries rules the head, eyes and face, the best plants for Aries are those that purify the blood, stimulate the adrenal glands, or are high in iron (Mars rules the mineral iron).

Fruits and Vegetables: Chinese cabbage, mustard, horseradish, onion, garlic, leeks, red pepper, rhubarb, chives, radishes

Flowers: Calendula, geranium, anise hyssop, poppies, red roses, tulips, amaryllis, hollyhock, cowslip, tiger lily, impatiens

Herbs: Nettles, burdock root, cayenne, red clover, yellow dock, yarrow, St. John’s wort, hops, marjoram, milk thistle, wormwood, gentian, sarsaparilla, tarragon, ginger, coriander

Taurus (April 20 – May 20)

Taurus is an Earth sign ruled by the planet Venus. Venus is the planet that represents desire and beauty, so Taurus plants often have gorgeous flowers and enticing fragrances. Because Taurus rules the throat and ears, the best plants for the Bull are often soothing to the throat, or may calm the digestive system after overindulging in the finest foods.

Fruits and Vegetables: Spinach, peas, potatoes, sweet potatoes, gourds, artichoke, olive, grape, apple, fig, apricot, pomegranate, strawberry

Flowers: Daisies, lilac, aster, lily of the valley, sweet pea, lilies, larkspur, columbine, violet, foxglove, rose, sweet William, daisy, geranium

Herbs: Licorice, fenugreek, slippery Elm, anise hyssop (Venus), mallow, lavender, dandelion, marshmallow, sage, vervain, feverfew, thyme, angelica, yarrow

Gemini (May 21 – June 20)

Ruled by the planet Mercury, Gemini is an Air sign that rules the lungs, shoulders, arms, and hands.

Gemini’s plants usually feature finely divided leaves or stems (like the bronchi of lungs), hairy or fuzzy leaves (related to the cilia in the lungs), or subtle odors. Plants associated with Gemini help to strengthen the lungs and respiratory system, or relax the nervous system.

Fruits and Vegetables: Endive, carrots, parsnips, oats

Flowers: Orchid, chrysanthemum, lilac, azalea, daffodil, Lily-of-the-valley, honeysuckle

Herbs: Mullein, hyssop, lemon balm, lobelia, elecampane, vervain, woodbine, yarrow, meadowsweet, dill, fennel, skullcap, lavender, fenugreek, licorice, valerian

Cancer (June 21 – July 22)

Because Cancer is a Water sign and is ruled by the Moon, Cancer’s plants generally have soft or Moon-shaped leaves, contain a lot of moisture, or are found near water. Oftentimes they are white in color, or have white or pale yellow flowers. Cancer rules the stomach, breasts, diaphragm, and liver, so plants that aid digestion or affect the subconscious are associated with the sign of the Crab.

Fruits and Vegetables: Brussels sprouts, broccoli, cabbage, cauliflower, endive, kale, lettuce, watercress, kohlrabi, mushroom, turnip, sweet potato, cantaloupe, cucumber, gourds, watermelon, pumpkin, squash, seaweed, mango, banana, apple, pear

Flowers: Daisy, water lilies, jasmine, hyssop, morning glory, geranium, lily, lotus, white roses, opium poppy

Herbs: Peppermint, spearmint, papaya leaf, agrimony, lemon balm, parsley, verbena, chickweed

Leo (July 23 – Aug. 22)

Naturally, Leo is a Fire sign ruled by the brilliant Sun. The part of the body ruled by Leo the Lion is the heart. Leo’s plants are usually large and gold or orange in color, or have heart-shaped leaves or a radiating shape. Plants that regulate blood pressure and have an uplifting effect on the spirit are most beneficial to Leo.

Fruits and Vegetables: Chinese cabbage, corn, collards, mustard, Swiss chard, okra, peppers, pineapple, orange, grapefruit, olive, coconut

Flowers: Marigolds, anise hyssop, sunflower, dahlia, larkspur, aster, passion flower, heliotrope, poppy, peony, calendula, crocus

Herbs: Borage, hawthorn, motherwort, rosemary, celandine, mint, lavender, parsley, dill, fennel, chamomile, St. John’s wort, angelica, eyebright, anise, ginger, saffron

Virgo (Aug. 23 – Sept. 22)

Virgo is an Earth sign ruled by the planet Mercury. Virgo is traditionally the Goddess of the Grain, and is associated with autumn. Her plants often have finely divided leaves or stems, subtle odors, or small, brightly-colored flowers. The most beneficial plants for Virgo are high in potassium and help to calm the nerves.

Fruits, Vegetables and Grains: Endive, carrots, parsnips, barley, oats, rye, wheat, millet

Flowers: Narcissus, chrysanthemum, aster, violet, all brightly colored small flowers (particularly blue or yellow)

Herbs: Dill, fennel, blackberry (leaves and root), plantain, St. John’s wort, skullcap, woodbine, valerian, lavender, marjoram, licorice, parsley, fenugreek, dill

Libra (Sept. 23 – Oct. 22)

Libra is an Air sign, and is ruled by the planet Venus. Because Venus is the planet of beauty and love, Libra’s plants often have light, lovely flowers and gorgeous scents. Libra rules the kidneys and the adrenals, so her plants help to bring balance to these areas of the body.

Fruits and Vegetables: Broccoli, eggplant, spinach, peas, sweet potato, artichoke, watercress, pomegranate, apricot, apple, fig, plum, grape, strawberry, olive

Flowers: Orchid, gardenia, tea roses, tuberose, freesia, gladiolus, aster, hydrangea, daisy, nasturtium, rose, violet, primrose, pansy, columbine

Herbs: Parsley, cleavers, juniper, corn silk, uva ursi, mint, thyme, yarrow, angelica, vervain

Scorpio the Scorpion (Oct. 23 – Nov. 21)

A Water sign ruled by both Mars and Pluto, Scorpio’s plants are often found in remote places or underground. They will likely have thorns, be red in color, and grow under adversity. The reproductive organs are ruled by Scorpio, so plants that balance the hormones, regulate the menstrual cycle, or help with childbirth and pregnancy are very beneficial to Scorpio.

Fruits and Vegetables: Mushroom, peppers, rhubarb, leek, onions, chives, pepper, garlic, horseradish, radish, mustard

Flowers: Calendula, rhododendron, geranium, holly, black-eyed Susan, scarlet monkey flower, anemone, heather, gardenia, honey-suckle, peony, hibiscus

Herbs: Aloe vera, ginseng, pennyroyal, raspberry leaf, saw palmetto, cramp bark, basil, gentian, wormwood, ginger, coriander

Sagittarius (Nov.  22 – Dec.  21)

Sagittarius is a Fire sign that is ruled by the planet large and optimistic planet Jupiter. So the Archer’s plants tend to be large in size and fairly conspicuous, with a pleasant odor. The best plants for Sagittarius will support the liver, are high in the mineral silica, and promote a positive frame of mind.

Fruits and Vegetables: Asparagus, endive, rhubarb, beets, tomato, turnip, watercress, olive

Flowers: Red roses, calendula, anise hyssop, pinks, carnations, clematis, peony, crocus, jasmine

Herbs: Dandelion, horsetail, Oregon grape root, wild yam, sage, feverfew, sage, anise, nutmeg, mint

Capricorn (Dec. 22 – Jan. 19)

As an Earth sign ruled by the planet Saturn, Capricorn’s plants usually have few flowers, are knobby or woody, and may have an unpleasant smell or taste. Saturn rules plants with long lives and slow growth, so plants with annual rings are also associated with the Goat. And because Capricorn rules the knees, joints, bones, and teeth, plants that are high in calcium can be very beneficial.

Fruits and Vegetables: Spinach, mushroom, beets, parsnips, barley, rye

Flowers: Calendula, black poppy, henbane, nightshade, African violet, snowdrop, jasmine, love-lies-bleeding, pansy, baby’s breath

Herbs: Comfrey, sarsaparilla, rue, kava kava, mullein, thyme, horsetail, shepherd’s purse

Aquarius the Water Bearer (Jan. 20 – Feb. 18)

Aquarius is an Air sign ruled by odd-ball Uranus, so the Water-bearer’s plants will often grow in unusual places and may vary in appearance. The most healing and beneficial plants for Aquarius are ones that help circulation, relax the nervous system, or promote inspiration.

Fruits and Vegetables: Spinach, beets, rye, barley, parsnip

Flowers: Bird of paradise, orchid, gladiolus, trillium

Herbs: Chamomile, catnip, skullcap, passion flower, valerian, hops, aloe, myrrh, frankincense, spikenard, kava kava, comfrey, cinnamon, cloves

Pisces the Fish (Feb. 19 – March 20)

As a Water sign ruled by both Jupiter and Neptune, Pisces plants are often large but hard to find, and may grow near the ocean. The most healing plants for Pisces are those that strengthen the immune system or have an antibacterial effect. Pisces plants may also catalyze expanded states of awareness and be helpful in dream work.

Fruits and Vegetables: Asparagus, endive, mushroom, rhubarb, beets, tomato, seaweed, watercress, olive

Flowers: Calendula, anise hyssop, jasmine, lilac, narcissus, water lily, poppy, clematis, wisteria, lilac, orchid

Herbs: Golden seal, Echinacea, chaparral, eyebright, mugwort, kava kava, yarrow, skullcap, oatstraw, nutmeg, anise

 

Your Daily Horoscopes for Tuesday, May 31

Aries

The Moon enlivens your sign and your emotions all day, dear Aries. This can be a good day for feeling supported, nurtured, and peaceful, yet also stimulated. Focus on self-improvement now. You may be feeling like sharing yourself by coming to someone’s aid or offering a hand in another manner. The feedback you receive from others right now means more to you than usual. The need to let go of a method or even a particular project or work goal may become apparent today.

Taurus

This is a potentially strong day for working on your emotional life, dear Taurus, and for behind the scenes activities. Listen to emotional signals to regroup and collect yourself. You can be quite fine on your own today, content to withdraw into your shell and re-center yourself. However, this can also be a good time for putting your faith in someone you care about, even if it’s in their absence, as it’s good for your soul. Be honest with yourself about what you need to let go in order to move forward lighter and freer.

Gemini

With the Sun and Venus in your sign, dear Gemini, your personality is in the spotlight, and you’re generally quite well-received. The first week of June may be a little up and down before you truly feel in charge like you often do at this time of year. Today, don’t pass up on opportunities to connect with others, socialize with associates and friends, and communicate or learn. Good things can come your way through these connections. Release pressure, as the coming days are likely to be quite busy and at times chaotic or confusing until you begin entertaining new ideas and perspectives about current events in your life.

Cancer

You can be feeling better than usual about your long-term goals, position, career, or relationship with elders or bosses today, dear Cancer. There is more comfort experienced now with your role and responsibilities. You can be in the position to take charge, lead, manage, or direct with success. Use this day for productive, practical tasks for best results. It will also be important to identify those things that you’ve been overattached to, and this can be actual “things” or attitudes and situations. Consider putting something that has outlived its purpose behind you.

Leo

Your need to expand your horizons on a personal level is strong in general these days, dear Leo, but is especially pronounced today. You can experience a powerful emotional need to escape your regular routine right now, and this might be satisfied on either physical or mental levels. If you are tied to some duties or tasks that can’t be avoided, try to shake up the routine a little so that you don’t feel like you’re caught in a rut or loop. There can be a freeing, inspiring exchange of ideas. It’s also a fine day for creative endeavors and gathering strength from a friendship.

Virgo

This is a good day for working out kinks and setting things right, dear Virgo. You tend to tackle problem areas with an especially positive and confident attitude right now. There can be new insights into a partner, a relationship, or even your own behavior. Someone could be opening your heart or mind to new ways of relating and connecting, or this can simply be your own discoveries through a relationship, and you might uncover a secret that enlightens you. Gaining a small advantage can feel good now. Letting go of bad habits seems within your reach now.

Libra

While you can be more emotionally geared towards relating than producing today, dear Libra, you can also be quite productive with the help of others. One-to one relationships, negotiations, and circumstances that urge you to strike a compromise can be themes today. It can be difficult to think of much else other than your relationships at the moment. However, it’s important to avoid clinging too tightly to others if this is motivated by fear, as you may be inadvertently pushing people away in the process.

Scorpio

This is a good day for potentially finding solutions to health or work problems, dear Scorpio, as well as for getting a variety of little tasks completed – and put behind you. Turn your thoughts to long-term plans, as this is a good time for applying strategy to your thinking. However, you can also feel a strong drive to manage details before they manage to take over your life. This is an especially good day for research and for discovering new information or hidden resources. Working through emotional issues with others, particularly with co-workers, can be quite successful now.

Sagittarius

Today is strong for correcting problems in relationships and ironing out differences if need be, dear Sagittarius. You can make something useful of your own talents and ideas today so that it makes sense to get to work on a creative project if this is possible. You are interested in bringing more form and structure to your life. Energy seems to flow smoothly, but you can also discover new things about someone and gain possibly even ground-breaking insight into your interactions.

Capricorn

Your domestic side is strongly stimulated today, dear Capricorn. You may not be getting to the heart of a matter or broaching especially deep topics with others right now, but the rapport you feel with those closest to you is sure to lift your spirits. Interactions tend to be helpful. You are in better touch with your vulnerable side, which is excellent as you can quite successfully work on your insides today. There can be some need or increased awareness of the need to let go of clutter or situations that are holding you back. Watch that you don’t micromanage people you love today.

Aquarius

Communications are in focus and strong today, dear Aquarius. You find your voice, and others tend to listen, and in fact may be especially drawn tot your ideas and/or your intelligence. You might make contact with someone with whom you’ve recently been out of touch, or simply doing more reaching out than you have been lately. You are likely to enjoy catching up and it can benefit you to put your feelers out – you can learn a lot today. Expressing your ideas and appreciation for friends can be successful and affirming now.

Pisces

This can be a good day for putting your practical affairs together, dear Pisces. Your stamina level increases and your emotions are settling in. This gives you a chance to find your emotional center, and puts you in a frame of mind in which you are feeling strongly connected with what you know and what you own. Money and business matters assume more importance to you today. Focus on ways to stabilize your life so that you can meet upcoming busy days with more confidence.

Your Love Horoscopes for the Week of May 30th

• General Horoscope

  Expect a difficult and confusing week in matters of the heart. On Friday Venus will square Neptune and simultaneously oppose Saturn. You might be sorely disappointed when you’re confronted with the reality of your current romantic situation. Discovering what has either been hidden from you, or, what you simply refused to see may cause a rude awakening. One way or another, you’ll need to address it. Remember: The only way out of a troubling situation is through.

• Aries Horoscope Mar 21 – Apr 19

  Words you hear from your partner this week might be laced with falsehood. Even if it’s a lie of omission meant to protect you from something, it’s still a lie. And this week you might be disheartened to learn that your lover would go to such great lengths to withhold information. This might not be a deal-breaker in your relationship, but if you don’t address it then the trust you have will begin to erode.

• Taurus Horoscope Apr 20 – May 20

  Your partner might disappoint you in a situation related to finances. As a result, he or she might leave you feeling as if you’ll never see eye to eye on decisions related to money. In fact, you might make a discovery this week about how your partner handles money that you feel is extremely detrimental to your relationship. Your security buttons are bound to be pushed this week. Handle with care.

• Gemini Horoscope May 21 – Jun 20

  You might feel like crawling under a rock this week and staying far away from your partner in order to avoid dealing with your current relationship reality. That’s exactly what you shouldn’t do. Something about your love life requires recalibration. In order to become stronger as a couple and unified however, you’ll need to face whatever it is you want to avoid most. You know what you have to look at. Open your eyes.

• Cancer Horoscope Jun 21 – Jul 22

  If you’re pining away for someone you know you can’t have, or shouldn’t be with, this week might be upsetting. The bubble in your romantic fantasyland is likely to burst, and as it does, you’ll need to address some very real emotional repercussions. Ask yourself why you spend so much effort on a love story that isn’t real. Genuine love is available to you, but first it’s time to confront your fears.

• Leo Horoscope Jul 23 – Aug 22

  A budding romance between you and a friend might turn into chaos. If you are uncertain about your feelings, or if you suspect your pal is second-guessing your recent hook up, take a step back. Allow each other enough space to process what has happened before you rush to figure out what’s next. Eventually you might realize that your feelings are genuine, but this week, you’ll be too mashed up with confusion.

• Virgo Horoscope Aug 23 – Sep 22

  Your partner might disappoint you this week. He or she might not be there for you as you celebrate a career achievement, while also having to navigate a stressful domestic situation. This lack of support or literal disappearing act could have significant consequences on the future of your relationship if it isn’t addressed. Don’t sweep your frustration under the rug because you’re afraid to confront the wrinkles in your love

• Libra Horoscope Sep 23 – Oct 22

  You might have too many stars in your eyes when it comes to the romantic potential between you and someone you recently met. This person might have a legal situation to work through. Or, it’s possible that he or she is not even planning to remain in the country for much longer! If your feelings are growing quickly, you might want to make sure that this person is accurately portraying him or herself. Don’t fall in love with an illusion.

• Scorpio Horoscope Oct 23 – Nov 21

  You might be crushed to learn that your partner made a financial decision without your consent that impacts you both. He or she might have invested money in a way you aren’t comfortable with. Or, you might discover that your mate carries credit card or other debt that you previously were not aware of. These financial omissions could have serious consequences on your ability to trust each other. Address it immediately.

• Sagittarius Horoscope Nov 22 – Dec 21

  Your love life isn’t exactly going to feel like a fairy tale romance this week. Instead, you might suddenly wake up to realize that your sweetheart isn’t perfect after all, and that you have a few significant issues to work through. This dose of disappointment combined with a reality check may have a lot to do with a family matter you’re dealing with. If you feel unfairly burdened, it might be time to voice your frustration to your mate.

• Capricorn Horoscope Dec 22 – Jan 19

  The current state of your love life requires attention. If there’s anything bothering you connected to your relationship that you’ve been avoiding, it might manifest as a health concern now. Emotional distress can lead to physical ailments under any circumstances, but this week it appears that feeling unwell physically will be directly related to unresolved stress between you and your mate. Work it out before that stomach ache turns into something more.

• Aquarius Horoscope Jan 20 – Feb 18

  You might feel as if you just woke up from a magical romantic fairy tale only to realize that all along, you’ve been kissing a frog. Hopefully it won’t be this dramatic of a disappointment for you, but given the cosmic strife, it is a possibility. Even if you are still content in your current love connection, there might be some trouble to work out connected to your sweetheart or a friend. Someone might be withholding information.

• Pisces Horoscope Feb 19 – Mar 20

  If you and your partner are in the midst of a home decorating project or renovation, it might be difficult to agree on anything. Your tastes will either run completely opposite, or your budgeting preferences will not match up. If possible, put any major home-related decisions on hold this week. The two of you need to figure out how to compromise without one of you feeling as if you’re making the ultimate sacrifice.

   

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