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: Dust lanes seem to swirl around the core of Messier 96 in this colorful, detailed portrait of the center of a beautiful island universe. Of course M96 is a spiral galaxy, and counting the faint arms extending beyond the brighter central region, it spans 100 thousand light-years or so, making it about the size of our own Milky Way. M96, also known as NGC 3368, is known to be about 35 million light-years distant and a dominant member of the Leo I galaxy group. The featured image was taken by the Hubble Space Telescope. The reason for M96’s asymmetry is unclear — it could have arisen from gravitational interactions with other Leo I group galaxies, but the lack of an intra-group diffuse glow seems to indicate few recent interactions. Galaxies far in the background can be found by examining the edges of the picture.
Maybe you noticed. Things have gotten more serious with the Moon in Capricorn. No-nonsense suits around the office. Discussions about rules, disciplines, hard work and respect. Virtues that make employees squirm and bosses feel lonely. Structure-everybody hates it until something unruly occurs. Physics says a vast and wild emptiness dances between the molecules in a chair. But we don’t fall in due to the structuring thought in wood, respecting our need for a solid place to sit. That’s Capricorn in your life, structures that support. Its energy inspires your achievements and fears (funny how both can be motivating). Face a fear today. Be the authority in something. Devise a business plan. Recognize that diligence is nothing more than keeping what you want in mind. Strategize with a wise old one. And do something especially nice this Moontime for your skin, bones or knees.
The Moon
This card represents serendipity, creativity and the coming to life of psychic powers. It may also signify dangers yet seen, deception and bad luck for someone dear to you.
Kenaz
Kenaz foretells the coming of clarity and knowledge. It is time for you to grow by exchanging knowledge with others. Opportunities are upon you.
Conch Shell
This aspect is affected by ill fated finances. Money seems to evaporate before it is received. An unexpected drain of finances is forthcoming–auto repairs, medical bills or a fine of some kind will cost you at a most inopportune time.
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.
Today’s Meaning:
This aspect of your life will be strongly influenced by a person who is modest, shy, meticulous, reliable, practical, diligent, intelligent and analytical. This person may be a leader of some kind where you are employed.
General Description:
Sixth sign of the Zodiac, Aug. 24th to Sept. 22nd. Ruled by the planet Mercury; correct metal, Silver. Those born under the influence of Virgo were supposed to be painstaking, efficient, ingenious, methodical, sensitive, studious, restless, rather irritable, but slow to anger. The Virgo gems are the Cornelian and Sardonyx. The Cornelian has always been a favourite talisman in the East. The Chinese had great faith in its supposed medicinal virtues. In Egypt used as a protection from every kind of evil; in Turkey and Arabia engraved with a verse from the Koran, and worn as an amulet for eveil eye, the plague, and every from of sickness; in Spain for courage and eloquence.
One/Four
Your spiritual and physical self may be out-of-balance at this time. While the journey may be arduous at times, the opportunity for you to bring these two important aspects of your being into a harmonious state is before you.
Beautiful butterfly has fluttered into your reading to remind you of the powerful transformational energies at work in your life. If something important seems to be stagnating, know that transformation is at work just below the surface—and just like the caterpillar, the “cocooned” situation you’re fretting about is about to be freed.
The Storm represents the trouble and discord that creep into our lives from time to time. The storm is represented by a tornado whirling its way across a fertile plain. Tornados are powerful but relatively small, short lived storms, which means that while the turmoil they indicate may be strong it will at least pass quickly. Like the tornado, The Storm is a force outside yourself and beyond your control. During a stormy period you may lose ground. However, knowing one is upon you can certainly help you keep your losses to a minimum, or even turn what might be a disaster into a windfall.
As a daily card, The Storm denotes a time when you should be prepared to face some large challenges in your life. You may find yourself losing more than you gain for awhile. The key to weathering the storm is preparation. You know its coming, so be ready for it and there is a possibility that you can transform a tumultuous event into something good.
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.
Like The Sun, The Universe brings good blessings. The Universe appears where all is in balance. It allows you to act effectively not only as an individual but as a member of a group too. The Universe promises contentment, fulfillment and completeness to those under its influence. It doesn’t guarantee there will not be moments of strife or discord in your life, but it does indicate that your trials and tribulations will be overcome; that ultimately you will know inner-peace and contentment. The Universe suggests you have found or will find your place in the scheme of things—that place where all is as it should be.
Casting the Stones, Your Past, Present & Future Reading for Today
The Past Perthro
Mysteries will become known to you. You should be able to see your life’s path clearly at this time. Pethro is often thought of as “Gambler’s Rune.” You are in a lucky period right now. Chance is your ally. Take advantage of it.
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 Naudhiz
Naudhiz reversed may tell of needs met and harmonious relationships. Your passions for someone or something may be at their pinnacle.
Elhaz represents your power to protect yourself and those around you. It also connotes the thrill and joy of a successful hunt. You are in a very enviable position right now, because you are able to maintain what you have built and reach your current goals. Enjoy.
Additional information about Today’s Rune, Elhaz
algiz: protection
Phonetic equivalent: x, z
DIVINATORY MEANINGS: protection, assistance, defense, warning, support, a mentor, an ethical dilemma
MAGICAL USES: for protection, hunting
ASSOCIATED MYTHS & DEITIES: Heimdall, Gjallerhorn
ANALYSIS: Heimdall is an interesting and mysterious figure in Norse mythology, and I associate him with the rune algiz because of his role as protector and guardian. He is the watcher at the gate who guards the boundaries between the worlds and who charges all entering and leaving with caution. He is best known for his famous horn, but his sword is also important in the consideration of rune. Snorri mentions that the poetic name for a sword is ‘Heimdall’s head’, and the poetic name for a head is ‘Heimdall’s sword’. This is particularly significant if we consider that one form of his name was ‘Heimdali’, meaning ‘ram’. Through the image of the ram,Heimdall’s sword and his horn can be seen as two different sides of the same image. Both the sword and the horns (or the elks antlers) are symbols of power that may be used for either offence or defence, depending on the situation.
In terms of the journey, we have passed through death and rebirth, and must now face the Guardian before returning to our world. It is he who charges us to use our new-found power wisely. The person can no longer be simply concerned with their own personal development, but must now consider the effect that their actions may have on others. This is a crucial turning point, and the person will either choose to adopt a system of ethics or ignore the effect on others and only work to serve their own ends. Again, the sword is in their hands, but they must decide whether to use it for defense or offense.
This reading focuses on your ambitions and dreams.
The Wheel of Fortune
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.
The Magus
The Magus is the physical embodiment of decisive action based upon knowledge and aimed squarely at specific goals. While firmly set in the material world, he none-the-less has a powerful spiritual connection as well. His knowledge, wisdom and skill are all encompassing. He is complete. His power as a creator is unmatched on our earthly plane. He is self-aware and unafraid to act. His enormous strength gives him the freedom to act as he chooses. However, responsibility comes with that freedom. Because he is not bound to the restraints of others he must choose how to act. The question that always lies before him is should he act morally, or forsake ethics for personal gain.
When The Chariot is among your personal cards, the influence of The Magus may be increased. Having The Empress or Hanged Man in your personal cards may diminish the influence of The Magus
Like The Sun, The World brings good blessings. The World appears where all is in balance. It allows you to act effectively not only as an individual but as a member of a group too. The World promises contentment, fulfillment and completeness to those under its influence. It doesn’t guarantee there will not be moments of strife or discord in your life, but it does indicate that your trials and tribulations will be overcome; that ultimately you will know inner-peace and contentment. The World suggests you have found or will find your place in our Universe—that place where all is as it should be.
General Horoscope
Exhilaration plays itself out and we begin a closing down process necessary to manifest our dreams. Confronting inflated expectations isn’t pleasant unless we’re willing to trade in our illusions for the truth. The Moon’s shift into calculating Capricorn at 8:32 am EDT emphasizes this unavoidable reality check. Meanwhile, a restrictive Mercury-Saturn alignment demands authenticity while a volcanic Mars-Pluto connection creates drama and intensity.
Aries Horoscope Mar 21 – Apr 19
Although your intentions may be honorable, it’s not a simple matter to keep your feelings to yourself. You might even acknowledge that what you are about to say should probably be left unspoken, but you may blurt it out anyway in a moment of excitement. Unfortunately, you can’t take your words back once they are out in the open. Everyone knows that honesty is the best policy, but remember to think twice before you create an untenable situation. A little conscious self-restraint before the fact is wiser than an apology after it’s too late.
Taurus Horoscope Apr 20 – May 20
Your sensory antenna are tingling today and you notice things you might ordinarily miss, prompting you to be more emotionally volatile now than usual. You’re certain that your conclusions are correct and could easily start trying to convince others to see the future in the same light as you. However, it’s dangerous to believe there’s only a single perfect outcome and you know exactly what it is. Stay ahead of the curve by entertaining all possibilities before you fixate on just one. Keep in mind what works for you doesn’t necessarily work for anyone else.
Gemini Horoscope May 21 – Jun 20
There are a lot of wheels spinning in your head, but it’s prudent to keep most of your thoughts on the down low today. Ironically, your ideas are likely quite enlightening, but everyone will conclude your thinking is scattered if you keep changing your plans. Thankfully, you can still be more productive than others expect once you make a final decision. You newly found resolve is so strong that you won’t give up until you reach your goal, making you a truly formidable opponent or a steadfastly loyal friend.
Cancer Horoscope Jun 21 – Jul 22
Stepping back from an explosive situation is smart, but you may get swept up in an emotional melodrama before you know it today. Reassess your involvement prior to doing something you might later regret. In fact, withdrawing your energy is your safest move if you decide that it’s really not your business. On the other hand, if participating in this conflict is truly necessary, at least detach yourself from any specific outcome. Your contribution will be more valuable to the group process now if you use your head and not your heart.
Leo Horoscope Jul 23 – Aug 22
You may become irritated today with someone who doesn’t usually get under your skin, yet you can’t put your finger directly on the source of your annoyance. Perhaps a coworker might bring up a sensitive subject that stirs deep emotions you have been purposefully trying to avoid. Whatever the circumstances are in the moment, it’s time to face the music. Fortunately, your residual angst will begin to dissipate if you have the courage to put your feelings out on the table. Shining light into the shadows banishes your fear of the dark.
Virgo Horoscope Aug 23 – Sep 22
You might become sorely disappointed in yourself if you end up letting down someone who is counting on you today. Nevertheless, you won’t likely sit still long enough to take the heat for something that is not in your control. Thankfully, you’re too results-oriented to waste time wallowing in self-pity or drowning in self-doubt now. Dust yourself off and reclaim your power; determine what went wrong, improve your plan and try again before you lose momentum. Practice makes perfect.
Libra Horoscope Sep 23 – Oct 22
Your opinions won’t necessarily become any less extreme today just because the emotional intensity has started to wane. You could be unusually stubborn about your version of the truth and may even be uncharacteristically impatient with anyone who tries to change your mind. The good news is you have an opportunity to listen carefully to what others say now without being required to agree with any of their conclusions. Putting your exemplary diplomatic skills to good use has never been more important than during these volatile times. Let there be peace on Earth, and let it begin with you.
Scorpio Horoscope Oct 23 – Nov 21
You’re tired of setting ambitious goals and then falling short of your own lofty expectations. Fortunately, the strategic Capricorn Moon’s visit to your 3rd House of Immediate Environment provides you with the structure you need to execute your plan without deviation. Nevertheless, you could create unnecessary opposition by inadvertently angering someone if you’re too forceful in your approach. Persistence works in your favor if you know when to wear a velvet glove and when to take it off.
Sagittarius Horoscope Nov 22 – Dec 21
You can see right through people’s excuses today and your incisive observations might make them quite nervous. Paradoxically, you could be absolutely correct in your assumptions yet only make matters worse by raising a sensitive subject in an inconsiderate manner. There’s no reason to avoid a necessary discussion now as long as you steer clear of any type of judgmental criticism. Adopting an open-minded and compassionate approach puts others at ease; you can achieve the impossible when everyone sets aside their egos and concentrates on the common good.
Capricorn Horoscope Dec 22 – Jan 19
You could be the proverbial go-to person of your group because everyone thinks you have the secret to success in your pocket. You may have a particularly strong grip on reality now, increasing your sense of authority even more. But don’t mistakenly believe that your vision is the right answer for everyone just because you can effortlessly navigate your way into the future. Acknowledging that multiple solutions are possible earns you even more credibility points with your workmates in the long run.
Aquarius Horoscope Jan 20 – Feb 18
You are working with a unique set of objectives today, yet the Moon’s presence in your 12th House of Privacy suggests that you are determined to hide your plans from others. Perhaps you want to avoid premature judgment before you put your new strategy into motion. Or, maybe you just need to prove your mettle, so you choose to venture out on your own. Keep in mind that a collaborative effort with the right person will strengthen your hand and increase your overall effectiveness. Believe it or not, the whole is greater than the sum of its parts.
Pisces Horoscope Feb 19 – Mar 20
Your peers may be unfairly critical of your performance today, yet you can still learn something constructive from what they say. Unfortunately, you might not want to listen to anyone’s advice now because of your own issues of low self-esteem. Thankfully, you can find a pearl of wisdom in this awkward exchange once you simply acknowledge your insecurities. Being transparent about your process is the current key to self-improvement. Seeing yourself as a work in progress gives you the inspiration to create a masterpiece.
You are an exceptionally creative person. Once you learn to focus your energy into one or a few creative passions, you can go far. Disciplining yourself is not necessarily a problem–you tend to have so many ideas and talents that it can be hard to develop just one. Indecision is sometimes an issue. You are especially thoughtful and helpful. You are very likable, and others sense your warmth, or at the very least, they seem to know you have a lot to share. Your mind is sharp and you love to communicate! You may grow into this quality–beginning life as a quiet child and, over the years, you discover your voice. You easily attract admirers and you are willing to make huge sacrifices for the sake of love. Famous people born today: Faith Hill, H. G. Wells, Larry Hagman, Leonard Cohen, Stephen King, Cheryl Hines, Bill Murray, Ricki Lake, Nicole Richie, Maggie Grace.
The Moon moves into your career and reputation sector this morning, dear Aries, and emotional focus is on performance as well as matters of responsibility and integrity. Mars in your creative sector is challenged by Pluto today, and you are challenged to get in touch with what it is you truly want and desire, as well as with those things that might bring you the most joy. You may not be able to move forward as quickly as you’d like, but if you do so step by step, then you’re more likely to do it successfully. Try to tame a desire to control things today, as it can get you into hot water. Avoid controversy. Look for more creative or fulfilling ways to do your work. Sometimes even small changes can lead to far improved motivation.
Taurus
Taurus
Recreation is in order today – avoid doing the same old, same old – particularly if you’re feeling caged in or restricted, dear Taurus. Watch for a suspicious or possibly even controlling attitude in relationships now, particularly with family. While jealousies or resentments can be operating close to the surface right now, you can choose whether to accept and understand them, or to let them control you. Memories and daydreams tend to emerge that pull you into reminiscing about past events. The Moon’s move into your adventure sector can raise your spirits and keep you from worrying too much about the smaller problems in your life.
Gemini
Gemini
There can be many distractions today, dear Gemini, even though you’re finding good motivation to work on certain projects. Be a little more cautious about how you express yourself, as there is a tendency to make controversy out of small misunderstandings and you’re better off outside of this kind of drama. Tomorrow, you’re likely to be feeling freer about how you express yourself. The Moon moves into your intimacy sector this morning, making it a good time for processing and digesting recent events, as well as observing rather than leaping forward.
Cancer
Cancer
With the Moon moving into your partnership sector this morning, dear Cancer, you can be feeling the need for company more than usual. With Mars and Pluto in challenging aspect today, you could be feeling a little possessive of people and things today if others seem to be moving into your territory or pushing your personal limits. You may not see the direct route to satisfying your needs or asserting yourself. Challenges may be coming from the outside, but what truly matters now is the response. It may be better to keep some things to yourself for now, but manage stress through constructive channels, which may be especially easy to find now.
Leo
Leo
The Moon moving into your work and health sector this morning is helpful, dear Leo, as it puts you in a stronger position to find and see problem areas in your life, and today’s energies supply you with the energy to fix them. With Mars in your sign in dynamic aspect to Pluto, the will to get things done is strong, but it’s important not to get lost in unexpressed anger or resentment. It’s also best to try to work at your own pace and/or independently, as you tend to be a little more particular about how you want to get things done. Try not to hold on to frustrations and resentments, but when expressing them, be careful that you do so without bulldozing others! Good energy is with you for wrapping your mind around a complex problem and working on it until it’s solved.
Virgo
Virgo
There can be some tension today revolving around memories or reminders of a frustrating past matter, likely a relationship, dear Virgo, but this can stimulate you to do something about it, motivating you to make changes that allow you to move forward freer and lighter. Make a point to get involved in activities that further your goals and ambitions. Work can be inspiring and fascinating now. Offer clear explanations of your motivations to important people in your life if you are dedicating more of your energy to personal pursuits and goals, but allow yourself some extra privacy or the right to keep certain things to yourself.
Libra
Libra
The Moon moves into your home and family sector this morning, dear Libra. This is a time for reconnecting with yourself and your inner needs, and for feeding the need for a feeling of belonging. This is a good day for planning and strategizing, as well as for examining emotional “slush” that has been accumulating if you’ve been keeping things to yourself. It can be relatively easy to trigger frustrations, but this also allows you to see what needs purging. It may be difficult to get things out into the open in your relationships, but with some determination, you’ll be more able to see problem areas that require fixing. Conflicts with a friend likely have to do with over-identification with beliefs or systems of doing things.
Scorpio
Scorpio
There may be some hardheadedness today, dear Scorpio, with assertive Mars running into your ruler, Pluto. You may be wanting to do it your way now, particularly in terms of work, so that it would be a good idea to work independently if you can choose to do so now. There is a slight tendency to stir up controversy today. Otherwise, you can feel especially motivated and determined to get things done. Energy is such that backing off and detaching yourself a little from your relationships actually helps enhance them – people are in need of some breathing room at the moment.
Sagittarius
Sagittarius
Defensiveness can easily be triggered today, dear Sagittarius, with Mars and Pluto in difficult aspect. However, if we observe before acting, there is a better chance of seeing vulnerable areas and learning from them. In fact, this is a great time to find motivation, possibly through frustration, to go after what you truly want and need! Avoid others’ head games if possible today. This morning, the Moon moves into your solar second house, which turns your emotional attention to building and developing, and this can only add to a nice level of productivity today.
Capricorn
Capricorn
With Mars and Pluto in challenging aspect today, dear Capricorn, there can be a strong desire to do things your way or to oversee a project rather than feel at others’ mercy. This can light a fire under you to get things done, and frustrations may in fact motivate you to go after what you want and need. The Moon moves into your sign this morning, bringing emotions to the surface and stimulating your need to feel connected and reinforced by the world around you. You’re certainly more noticeable now, and others tend to follow your lead.
Aquarius
Aquarius
With the Moon moving into your privacy sector this morning, dear Aquarius, you may very well need a little more anonymity or time to yourself. If you’re having trouble getting in touch with your intuition, removing yourself from ambitious, chaotic, or demanding atmospheres will do the trick, if possible. A Mars-Pluto aspect today may stimulate some tension, particularly on the level of wills in your closest relationships, or involving unresolved matters from the past. The larger purpose of this aspect is to get you into better touch with your true needs and desires, and small frustrations ignited today can motivate you to go after what you want.
Pisces
Pisces
With Mars and Pluto in challenging aspect today, dear Pisces, frustrations at not feeling in control of your life can stimulate a strong desire to better your situation and seek out a higher level of well-being. You are inclined to read between the lines and play detective today. Motivation to work harder or to improve your health can be strong now. Even so, you’re likely to be craving less pressure in your life, particularly socially, and with the Moon moving into your social sector this morning, you are tuning in to the need to be around true friends who accept you for who you are.
Men and women of every race and culture commiserate with the phase of life we like to call the “midlife crisis.” Believe it or not, there are key astrological cycles we’ll go through during our early 40s that help us move toward a level of individuation we simply could not have achieved until these years. That is, if they don’t drive us crazy first.
ut I’ll be honest and admit that up until very recently I didn’t pay much attention to these Astrology cycles. I was a “young” astrologer, and, well … I just didn’t care. Even though I had clients going through the midlife years I simply couldn’t relate to this generation the same way I could to the 20- and 30-somethings. I was young and cavalier. Maybe a part of me didn’t think those transits could really happen to me one day.
Ha. The universe always has the last laugh.
This May I’ll turn 39. Trust me, my attitude has changed. No longer can I deny the stubborn grey hairs assaulting my long, curly mane. No longer can I ignore the under-eye circles and laugh lines etched across my eyes. Thank goodness for friendly camera lighting when I film those videos! Losing weight used to be a matter of exercising more. These days, if I don’t avoid wine and chocolate like the plague and live at the gym, I’ll have no hope of getting back into my “skinny jeans.”
Suddenly, I’m living through midlife transits and it’s different now. It’s real.
It all begins with the Pluto square
Your midlife crisis peaks at around age 40-42, when we all experience the famous Uranus opposition. More on that in a minute, but first let me introduce you to the transit that opens wide the door to midlife for us — kind of like the grim reaper. You know, I must be talking about a Pluto transit and it happens to be called the Pluto square.
For each of us, between the ages of 36-42 (depending on the year you were born), transiting Pluto in the sky will make a square to your natal Pluto placement. This transit forces us to confront what is no longer working in our life. What has died … or is about to die.
Youth as we know it dies at this time while midlife is born. There’s just no denying it — our bodies and lives are rich with maturity and responsibility now. We’re raising kids, building our careers and often in significant relationship transition. There is major internal pressure during the Pluto square to recognize where in your life there is stagnation. If you refuse to change it, the Pluto square makes that area of your life shatter.
Don’t be afraid of it, though: the Pluto square might lead to a symbolic death of life the way we knew it, but you can be certain that it also paves the way for an important new beginning.
During my Pluto square I was going through a divorce and simultaneously building my Astrology career. Loss was certainly everywhere, but now that I’m past the Pluto square I can say without a doubt that the “death” needed to happen in order for me to turn the page in the book of my personal life and begin this next exciting chapter. And so it is with everyone who goes through a Pluto square.
Next up is the Neptune square
Your Neptune square happens at around age 40, and it has a lot to do with a shift in spiritual values — even a sense of confusion about where you are. If you’ve ignored the Neptunian part of life, this time might coincide with a spiritual quest.
If you do this midlife cycle wrong, you might drink too much or practice another unhealthy escapist behavior. You might take stock of your achievements up until now and feel like they’re worthless. A sense of disappointment is possible, and ultimately this will prompt you towards questioning your life and purpose in a deeper way. Ultimately, you will be spiritualized.
Your midlife crisis peaks with the Uranus opposition
Soon after — or around the same time — the famous Uranus opposition happens. THIS is when our world turns upside down. At around age 40-42, transiting Uranus will oppose natal Uranus and we realize that half of our life is behind us and the other half is still ahead. This is a major personal awakening that often results in a restless energy that needs to be externalized. We recognize with a sense of urgency that we only have one more chance at making our lives into what we really want it to be.
THIS is when middle-aged married men buy the red sports car and have an affair with a 25-year-old. This is when the homemaker decides to go back to college, unsettling everyone in her family. This is when the confirmed bachelor gets married and the couple you thought would be together forever announce their divorce.
We’re not old, but we’re no longer young, and this realization leads to a major life assessment. It’s time to either meet or revamp the goals we set when we were in our 20s. This is the cycle we truly individuate and begin to live life on our own terms. Hopefully, we can accomplish this without a rebellious outburst, but it’s usually part of the package. One thing is certain: After this cycle, life is forever changed.
Your Saturn opposition is a reality check
Then, at around age 44 or so, we experience the Saturn opposition, when transiting Saturn opposes natal Saturn. This is when we get a major reality check and need to face the consequences of the choices we made during our Uranus opposition. Remember, this transit will happen after the Uranus opposition and you WILL somehow “pay the piper” if you acted too recklessly during your midlife tantrum.
I haven’t experienced the Neptune square, Uranus opposition or Saturn opposition yet, but I do admit that after living through the Pluto square I am now taking these impending midlife transits very seriously.
They will change my life. They will change yours. And if you’re 20-something and reading this blog, thinking to yourself “Ha! It’ll never happen to me!” … Well, all I can say is that once upon a time I used to be that deaf, dumb and blind, too.
General Horoscope
There’s a healthy dose of supportive energy for love and relationships this week, so be sure to take advantage of it! First, on Tuesday, Venus and Uranus will be aligned perfectly, ensuring that you and your sweetie will enjoy an unusual but very groovy kind of love. Then, on Wednesday, you and your partner might collaborate on a project together that requires extra discipline and focus. You’ll succeed thanks to a Libra Sun being at a friendly angle to Saturn. A Lunar Eclipse in Aries on Sunday however might take the focus away from your relationship and place it back on you and your individual identity. Don’t feel guilty about it.
Aries Horoscope Mar 21 – Apr 19
Take advantage of the last few days sexy Mars will tour your romance sector. In fact, after Thursday, Mars won’t come back to this area of your chart for two years. So go ahead and party like it’s 1999 with the one you love. Have fun! A Lunar Eclipse in your sign on Sunday will require you to let go of something you’ve attached to your identity for way too long but have now outgrown. Let it happen regardless of what your partner thinks about it. After all, it’s your life.
Taurus Horoscope Apr 20 – May 20
Are you ready for even more yummy romantic energy? Can you handle it? Of course you can, so get ready! This Thursday, Mars, the planet that rules libido and sex will enter your 5th House of True Love for the first time in two years. Mars will remain in this part of your chart until November 11, adding even more opportunity for you to get your groove on with someone special. Yes!
Gemini Horoscope May 21 – Jun 20
You and your partner will truly feel like a team this week. If you have any project or other endeavor that you want to collaborate on, aim to begin it this Thursday. The two of you will help each other remain disciplined so that you can get the job done! Also, you might feel a stronger level of stability in your relationship than you have in the past. No matter what, you know you can count on the one you love.
Cancer Horoscope Jun 21 – Jul 22
There’s definitely more of a focus this week on work and career matters rather than love. Hey, timing is everything, right? Use this week to get back on track with your professional goals and allow your love life to simply float. There’s nothing wrong with keeping things status quo between you and your lover for a week. After all, he or she should want you to take advantage of all the delicious professional energy you have in store anyway.
Leo Horoscope Jul 23 – Aug 22
Someone special might take your breath away this Tuesday! Venus, now in your sign, will be at a gorgeous angle to Uranus, the planet of surprises. As long as you’re willing to go with the flow and try something new it appears you won’t be disappointed. In addition, a conversation between you and your sweetie on Wednesday might have both of you thinking about the future. Your future…together.
Virgo Horoscope Aug 23 – Sep 22
Get ready to bring sexy back! This Thursday Mars will enter your sign for the first time in two years and will remain in Virgo until November 12. During the next several weeks, you’re likely to feel a surge in confidence and your sex drive. You will have little trouble going after whoever it is you desire — even if you’re usually the more reserved type. Indeed, now is the time to take what you want. Remember: no guts, no glory!
Libra Horoscope Sep 23 – Oct 22
Expect an electrifying encounter with your partner this week. One of your pals might invite the two of you to attend a social event that is unusual in some way. It might have to do with the people or it could be a theme party. Whatever the details, you and your mate are sure to have an exhilarating time that will somehow put plenty of sparks back into your lives. Then, a Lunar Eclipse on Sunday will lead to a turning point in your relationship. It’ll be deep.
Scorpio Horoscope Oct 23 – Nov 21
Expect even more activity in your social life. On Thursday, Mars will enter your 11th house giving you more invitations than you can possibly handle. Until November 12, there will be an extraordinary level of chaos and stimulation when it comes to friends and groups. If single, this might be a time you decide to make a move and initiate contact with someone you meet online. You and a pal might also decide to explore that mutual chemistry you share.
Sagittarius Horoscope Nov 22 – Dec 21
Romance will surely be your focus — for better or worse! On Tuesday, Venus will be at a perfect angle to Uranus, the planet of unexpected developments. Since this is a happy link, the planet of love will respond in a kind way to whatever surprise Uranus has in store. Enjoy the exhilaration! Then, on Sunday, a Lunar Eclipse in your true love sector will help you truly see the light when it comes to your relationship with someone special. If you’re meant to have a future together you’ll know it.
Capricorn Horoscope Dec 22 – Jan 19
It’s all about home and family matters this week Capricorn. So if you’re in a relationship, your partner will surely be pulled into whatever is happening. On Tuesday, it looks like you and your mate will enjoy a happy development that affects your family finances. Then, on Sunday, it’ll be clear that a change must happen in order for you both to feel the way you want to feel at home. You’re both ready for it.
Aquarius Horoscope Jan 20 – Feb 18
A conversation with your sweetheart on Tuesday will surprise you — in the most amazing way possible. Whatever subject you and your love end up discussing will take a unique twist and turn leaving you feeling more intrigued than ever with your partner’s mind. You’ll come away from this week feeling as if your friendship with one another has been fortified along with the love you share as a couple. Wonderful!
Pisces Horoscope Feb 19 – Mar 20
You and your partner are ready to stir the pot and add a lot more spice to your relationship. On Thursday, Mars, the planet of aggravation, will enter your partnership sector. He’ll remain in this part of your chart until November 12. You’ll notice that you and your mate are no longer willing to sweep any problems under the rug. While it’s true that you’ll both feel edgier, any arguments you have will likely lead to the most fantastic make up sex. Take it while it’s hot!
The Moon
Conch Shell
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.
The Magus is the physical embodiment of decisive action based upon knowledge and aimed squarely at specific goals. While firmly set in the material world, he none-the-less has a powerful spiritual connection as well. His knowledge, wisdom and skill are all encompassing. He is complete. His power as a creator is unmatched on our earthly plane. He is self-aware and unafraid to act. His enormous strength gives him the freedom to act as he chooses. However, responsibility comes with that freedom. Because he is not bound to the restraints of others he must choose how to act. The question that always lies before him is should he act morally, or forsake ethics for personal gain.
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