Mercury, the Winged Messenger of the Cosmos, is at play this month during Mercury retrograde when care is required during all communications.

Friday. End of week. We can see some stress in the heavens today between the Moon (Emotions) and Mars (Initiative), Venus (Love), and Pluto (Transformation). What’s holding you back from getting on to the next phase of your relationship? The Moon is also playing well with Saturn (Restrictions), so there’s a good pattern here for you to examine. Ever notice how thing happen often in series and patterns? Some of that has to do with habits. Habits can hold you back. So, today is an opportunity to see any old patterns that are preventing you from the growth you deserve — then begin to do something about it.

“What is one practical step you can take to address your Spiritual side which will benefit your health?”

Mercury Retrograde began on Thursday, running through May 30th — and these are always times to check and double-check important communications and negotiations. Listen well. Paraphrase and run it by again. Get it on paper. Today also shows a triple Trine with the Moon and Saturn, Chiron, and Neptune. That’s harmonious for emotions surrounding health, spirituality, and practicality. What is one practical step you can take to address your Spiritual side which will benefit your health? Volunteer locally to help the community? Exercise? Yes… even exercise can be a Spiritual pursuit — Tai Chi, for example, has the eternal Tao at the source of its inspiration.

On Saturday, the Moon squares off with Jupiter (expansion), Chiron (Health), and Neptune (Spirituality). This is a good day to take a casual walk in a park, a day trip to the beach, and just get out of your usual surroundings. When you do, take some time to become aware of any emotions tied to your Spiritual nature which may be holding you back. Some examples are that you might feel you are in a stifling relationship, you might have some unfinished business with people important to you, etc. Once you identify that, you can form a plan to get beyond it. Until you do, your feelings might continue to work in opposition to your personality. Balance brings harmony.

Ultraviolet image of Venus’ clouds as seen by the Pioneer Venus Orbiter (February 26, 1979). The mechanism by which Venus’ clouds absorb ultraviolet is not well understood.

Welcome to Friday — today the Moon cooperates with three “Planets”… The Sun (Personality), Saturn (Restrictions), and Uranus (New Ideas).  And the Moon is also busy showing tension with four other planets.  This celestial interplay of energy makes for lively Friday where your own limits are likely to be tested at work as well as in your personal life.  Is there something, or someone, holding you back?  Often it appears that way.  But most of the “boxes” in life are actually self created.  And just as you made them, you can bust out of them — that’s the good news.  Much of the struggle is what we call “Life”.  I remember a local Blues band that went by the name of Tom Slayer Struggle.  Some days it feels like a “struggle” some days it flows easy. The important thing is to have a plan and keep moving. You can do it.

“Think very carefully about the questions you have about your life. …The answers will come, but only after you have focused on precisely what you need.”

Also on Friday, Venus (the planet of Love, Attraction & all that ‘we love’) turns RETROGRADE. And, when VENUS is RETROGRADE in ARIES, the actions that people take to create love, in their lives will be ‘slower’ perhaps even non existent — but that is not necessarily a bad thing. What this automatically does is ‘keep you in a place of suspension’ or status quo with those whom you are in love with, allowing more to be worked thru, providing a better perhaps more healthy outcome.

Earlier in the week, we saw a lot of harmony in the heavens.  The Moon (key to our emotional motivation), was hooking up with Jupiter, Mars, Chiron, Mercury and Neptune and anything you set your mind to can move forward — you’ve got the initiative, when you explain how your plans will make things smoother.  Of course there’s always some stress you’ll encounter when you present new ideas, but that’s ok.  People fear change.  As long as you organize what you present, and give solid reasons with a positive Spirit… it’s full steam ahead.

Thursday found the Moon showing tension with five planets.  Remember that tension, or edginess, is often part of the motivation needed to get things moving and happening.  We also find our emotional selves working with healing Spiritual energy today.  So think of the tension to keep moving, while the Spirit is your refuge.  Sometimes in our busy lives filled with requests, jobs, projects and to-do items — it is important to give thanks for all that.  Huh?  Give things for all that work?  Yes.  It means you are living, growing, and succeeding in your career and personal life.  Checking off those items on your list.  But it is remembering to “count your blessings” that brings you the healing Spiritual energy you need… to keep going.

Saturday looks like a day of work — at least emotionally.  The Moon (key to the emotional tides within), shows some friction with Mercury, Saturn, Neptune and Pluto.  You feel you have something to say about Spiritual renewal… to your loved ones, a friend, and ultimately to yourself.  But you struggle to find the right way to get a handle on it.  Think very carefully about the questions you have about your life.  The important questions.  The answers will come, but only after you have focused on precisely what you need.

While in reality the Earth goes in an orbit around the Sun, it seems from the Earth that the Sun moves over the ecliptic (red) on the celestial dome.

Welcome to Friday. The Heavens are active today with the Moon working well with Jupiter and Mars, but squaring off with Pluto. This configuration sets up energy for you to take some initiative on expansion plans at work, but then there’s a hitch in the effort since funding is not available for renewal. Also today, Saturn and Jupiter are showing tension with each other which also reflects the idea of restriction versus expansion. These are natural in normal times, and more so in a down economy. On the one hand, you need to grow to survive, while on the other, you feel like you need to play it safe. In relationships, there are times when staying comfortable — keeping things the way they are — feels right, even though one partner wants to take it to the next level. If you stay where you are — you’ll never get to where you must go.

“The spiritual tension you may have been feeling, can be resolved through prayer, and action based on careful consideration.”

Earlier in the week, the Moon was happy with Pluto — the planet of transformation and renewal. How can you use this feeling of progress to help you both at work and at home? The Moon was also mingling with Uranus to bring a feeling of new ideas to light It’s the end of January, and a good time to solidify your plans for the new year… so use that energy wisely. The Moon is also working well with Mercury (Communication) today so you may have a good feeling about a chat or talk you had with someone important to you. But, remember we are still in Mercury Retrograde (through 2/1), a time caution in communication and negotiation. Talk is good, but giving it time to double-check the important points before taking action… is better.

On Saturday, the Moon (Emotions) is showing stress with Neptune (Spirituality), but also working in harmony with the Sun (Personality). Sound like a complex package of influences? Perhaps. But then when you consider the human psyche — a bundle of ego, superego, subconscious, mental, and spiritual elements — the heavens often run parallel to our own internal churning. Does this mean we can predict all things coming at us in the future? Not even close — but we can look at patterns, “pulls” and influences. So as the weekend begins, don’t gloss over that higher matter that is speaking to you from your God center… embrace it. It has a message for you that will require discernment to see through any illusions.

On Sunday, as February rolls in, our emotional self is set for healing. How so? The spiritual tension you may have felt yesterday, may be resolved through prayer, and action based on careful consideration. If you can get over the stress of talking about it with someone close to you… that may be the exact step you need to take. Often good communication, even about the tougher subjects, leads to the resolution and transformation you seek. Remember two things: the truth will out; and the truth will set you free. Talk about it, then you can move forward.

It’s Friday… always a welcome day for the working folks. Today, the Moon is working well with Mercury giving the feeling that you understand what people are trying to say to you. Not so fast. It’s still Mercury Retrograde, and even in less “communicationally-challenged” phases you always need to check what you heard, and particularly the fine print for all negotiations. The Moon is also squaring off with Mars, and this could leave you a bit stressed about beginning new projects. Check your plans, check all communications, then put it aside and let it “cool” over the weekend. This will give it time to percolate and set you up for success.

“‘Alignment’ is an interesting term. How the planets and celestial bodies line up determines much of interpretation in Astrology. The Mayans based much of their own interesting prophesies on it.”

Earlier in the week, the Moon making nice with Neptune — a planet of Spirituality. Of course, sometimes there are illusions involved with Spiritual pursuits, so it is particularly wise to pray for discernment now, during a Mercury Retrograde. And, what does “praying for discernment” really mean? It means that we are asking God to evolve and grow in our Spirituality. Discernment comes at the price of Spiritual growth. And yes… there is a “price”. You must set aside time from and forego the ways of the World to get there. You will feel the transformation deep within as you proceed, and discernment will be but one reward.

On Saturday, we see some interesting alignments in the heavens. “Alignment” is an interesting term. How the planets and celestial bodies line up determines much of interpretation in Astrology. The Mayans based much of their own interesting prophesies on it. And here on Earth, your own alignments with friends and co-workers — the bodies of your universe — determine your path and your results to a large extent. Saturday finds the Moon in harmony with both Neptune (Spirituality) and Chiron (Healing). Heal yourself emotionally via your Spiritual connection. It is your emotions, intuition, gut level instincts, that must guide you today.

Sunday is a day to be careful of what you say, and how you communicate. Better to listen well, and say little today. The Mercury Retrograde along with emotional stress with Mercury make stillness a wise policy. In this quiet time, perhaps in meditation and/or prayer, you can lift your soul from the restrictions you feel, and instead go to a place of transformation. Trust what you know in your heart. It is a time for traditions that ring true. If something new, that comes to you, does not feel right — trust your hunch.

The Full Moon levers its pull on Earth this Weekend

Get set for a powerful weekend with lots of energy from the Full Moon, and a Mercury Retrograde in the air. Friday shows a busy Moon squaring off with Saturn, in harmony with Neptune, and cooperating with Pluto. Interesting. You might find this evening to be a bit dreamy with your mind wandering off the practical after a long week. As with any weekend, there’s a need for renewal, and you have some energy for recreation. Plus, the Sun’s energy (Personality) is working well with Uranus, so you might have some new ideas on how to relax this weekend. A new getaway? Sitting by the fire at an Inn?

You may have met someone new on Friday, and been intrigued with them intellectually. When you get up on Saturday, you discover you might have some feelings for them.

Earlier this week, the Moon was teaming up with both Mercury, and Chiron today to make a nice opportunity for you to talk with those close to you in ways that heal old wounds, and inspire people to feel better. It could be a good time to patch some things up. It is a good day to do some inspirational “coaching” for your team and employees at work. People will be open to hear you talk about growth — sure it’s a down time for the economy, but people have already heard a lot about that. That makes it a little bit tricky… especially at work. New ideas cost money, so that’s probably not the right message. Steady growth through good solid business principles should play well.

On both Friday and Saturday, the Moon is at odds with Mercury (Communication). Mercury then goes Retrograde on the 11th, which makes Communication a bit difficult. Remember to listen and check what you hear and read very carefully. You may have met someone new on Friday, and been intrigued with them intellectually. When you get up on Saturday, you discover you might have some feelings for them. Just make sure to give things due time and the communication needed to clarify intentions. You will also get a good feel for your limitations today — it’s always helpful to know your boundaries. And Saturday is also a good day of “balance.”

Sunday shows a day when you may feel a bit out of sorts. Did you party on Saturday night? You could find yourself in a conversation with a partner and your head reading it one way, while your gut tells you the opposite. What do you do? Ask questions in a calm, reasonable way. Listen and consider the answers carefully. Today, those you are close with may wish to talk about practical matters. You should also do what you can to get clarity in your Spiritual beliefs and habits. Finding your way is one thing — sticking to it is another.

Starburst Galaxy captured by NASA’s Hubble Telescope

What a week — we’ve made it to Friday. And Friday looks interesting as the Moon (Emotions) works with Pluto (Transformation) to bring about an energy where you can make some real changes. Venus is also working well with Pluto… and you know what that means — transformation is possible on Friday in your Love life. Follow your heart.

“On Saturday, the Moon is looking a little wild — no doubt emotions are raw after a very unusual week. “

Earlier in the week, The Moon (Emotions) was in a conjunction with Chiron (The Healer), and also working well with Mercury (Communication), and the Sun (Personality). Thus the energy was aligned well for you to “clear the air” at work, with your family, and in your romantic life. How did that go? Remember the Mercury is also in Retrograde (through Oct. 15th), so listen carefully, and double check any negotiations that are on paper.

On Saturday, the Moon is looking a little wild — no doubt emotions are raw after a very unusual week. But also on Saturday, the Moon makes nice with Mars and Saturn, but gets jiggy with the Sun. This can set up a situation where you must stress practicality (rent a a movie instead of going out, or cook a good meal instead of going to a restaurant), against your own idea of what would be fun. That’s OK. Practicality is a good thing now… if only the bankers and wall street had common sense in the last few years.

On Sunday, the Moon is making nice with Venus… the planet of Love. Grab some while you can. It’s not a good time to make new plans and discuss new projects… just kick back and relax for a nice relaxing Fall weekend day. I know, I know… sometimes it’s hard to rest, but resting will actually recharge you for all thos projects you have been thinking about.

Monday — Columbus Day — is looking a little off kilter. First, there’s Mercury (Communication) having a little problem with Venus (Love) — not much love is returned to you when you make your announcements today… know what I’m saying? The Moon then, is squaring off with Pluto… the planet of transformation. Ask yourself how you might be emotionally “blocking” (usually anger) something that can actually bring you needed renewal. Are you avoiding seeing an old friend? Holding a grudge against someone in the family? Clear it. The only person it is holding back is you.

Distant Galaxy captured by Hubble telescope.

Here comes Thursday. The Moon is working well with both Saturn (practicality), and Jupiter (prosperity), while showing stress in the realm of Chiron (the “Healer”). One simple interpretation is that being practical in your finances is the path to fixing any unbalances and will lead you to prosperity. Sound like common sense? Tell that to Congress, Wall Street, and all those loan lenders that didn’t serve us well. The Moon (Emotions) also cooperates well with Uranus (New Ideas), so you can work with this energy to give birth to your inner feelings. That’s just as important in your career as it is in your romantic life.

“Yes — check things twice and thrice because of the Retrograde period, but don’t hang back now. “

Earlier this week, we saw Mars dancing with Pluto. Pluto’s energy is about transformation and renewal, so mid-week brought a good time to put forward a proposal to try something new… at work, or in your personal relationships. How did that work out for you?

Friday looks a little emotional with the Moon (Emotions) putting stress on the Sun (Personality). Then we have Saturn (Restrictions), and Mercury (Communication) putting stress on the Moon. Hmmmm. Remember too that the Mercury Retrograde is in effect, so it is a time to be very careful in your negotiations. There might be something that has been holding you back, which you need to speak about with a boss or a loved one, but you’re worried about how emotional it can be. Just do what you know to be right, based on your Spiritual principles. That’s all any of us have to do at any time. And, we are emotional beings, so some feelings are to be expected.

On Saturday, the Heavens get busy and “bring it” with the Sun making nice with the Moon, Mercury dancing with Chiron the Healer, and the Moon playing well with both Chiron and Mercury. This is the time to speak and negotiate as it can bring about a fortunate result for you. Yes — check things twice and thrice because of the Retrograde period, but don’t hang back now. Your emotions and personality are all aligned with the potential for healing from your communication which means both speaking… and listening. Good luck.

Colorful image of Mercury — now in Retrograde… stay cautious in your communications — from NASA’s Jet Propulsion Lab

On Friday, the Moon is cooperating well with both Mars AND Venus.  Man, Woman.  Action, Romance. A good day for a date with a new friend or long time romantic partner.  There’s also harmony with the energy of Pluto (renewal), so a date with your love interest could be just the ticket you need to fuel the fires.  The Moon (and that relates to a pull on your emotions) is at odds with Saturn, the planet of practicality, however.  Financial woes at home, and in the markets got you blue?  Don’t overspend to fight it.  Practical, down to earth, prudent moves exactly what’s needed right now.

“Since this is a time of caution, make sure your logical thinking keeps your feet on the ground before proceeding.”

Earlier in the week, we began Mercury Retrograde, so be very cautious about all communication and negotiations. The Moon is also showing an opposition with Neptune (Religion), but in harmony with Mercury (Communication).  So go with your gut feeling — your instincts — when you’re wondering what to say.  And use that uneasy feeling you may have about what’s going on with your Spiritual pursuits to make needed adjustments and get right with your Spiritual goals.

Saturday brings some interesting aspects, with the possibility of some ruffled feelings. Remember to communicate clearly, and to listen (an often overlooked skill in communications).  The Moon is working well with Jupiter today, so there’s a feeling that your growth plans are going to be OK.  Of course global financial markets are still in flux, so stay prudent and cautious.  Venus (Romance) is also putting some stress on feelings today, so make the right moves to be there for your partner.

Sunday finds Mercury (still in Retrograde) working well with Neptune — the planet of inventions and new ideas. This presents both an opportunity and a note of caution.  You may find your self in talks with colleages, family members, and coworkers about some business ideas you have, or perhaps a project or two around the house.  Good.  Just make sure you make all the details and your intentions clear — Retrograde is a period (in Mercury) known to foster errors in communication.

Peaking into next week, Monday is showing the Sun (personality) at odds with Neptune, so yesterday’s good feelings about a new project may get a double-check when you look more closely and logically at how it might proceed. That’s OK.  In business and at home, there’s always a push and pull between gut instincts and good common sense.  Since this is a time of caution, make sure your logical thinking keeps your feet on the ground before proceeding.  The Moon and Sun are also in conjuction today, so this is another sign that it is good for you to balance intuition with clear thinking.

A “starburst” galaxy blazes with extremely active star formation in this NASA photo — worlds, suns, and moons all spiraling through the Cosmos.

How was your Thursday? Were you feeling a little “jiggy” today? Well, the Moon (Emotions) is at odds with the Sun (Personality) today, so you may feel a little on edge. This can actually be a good thing… you don’t want to be too complacent about your life, you know. Meanwhile, Saturn and Jupiter are tugging around in the Cosmos today too, and this can set up an opportunity for you to look at what is holding you back from growing — getting to the next level in your career, and relationships. Take a good reasonable look at things, and you’ll probably feel less jiggy by the end of the day.

“The Sun (Personality) is also working well with Mercury (Communication) — and Mercury is recently out of retrograde — which means that you have what you need to negotiate your way to success.”

Earlier this week you might have found yourself a bit tongue-tied when it comes to discussing your romance. Sometimes it’s hard to know the right thing to say. And even though your emotions are soaring, your mind just doesn’t form the right words. That’s ok. Concentrate on actions that afirm your relationship. You know — flowers? Ok… get a bit more creative… try a surprise gift card for a massage, or a weekend away. And get a card to go along with the gift… you’ll probably find what you want to say has already been written.

Tomorrow (Friday), the Moon squares off with Saturn today, but works well with Mars giving you a feeling that you can break out of the mold and accomplish what’s needed. Go for it. The Sun (Personality) is also working well with Mercury (Communication) — and Mercury is recently out of retrograde — which means that you have what you need to negotiate your way to success. Is it time to bring closure to an important project? Time to take your romance to the next level? This Summer Friday is a good time to take those initiatives and make it happen.