• Lay low and not over exert yourself.
• Avoid rushing head first into things.
• Be moderate in all areas of your life.
• Complete the projects you have been working on of late before starting new ones.
• Take a mini-retreat if you can, especially if your energy is not very high during the next few days or two (that could change after the New Moon).

As I said, the New Moon in Virgo on Wednesday (at 3:30 a.m. PDT; 6:30 a.m. EDT) is a time to begin again. The objective now is to find ways to start the next Lunar cycle with a fresh attitude. What do you need to do to create this new outlook? For one, lay out a map for where you are going next on your journey, as Virgo loves to work from a plan. Then, take each step one at a time. And keep in mind, it doesn’t need to be the “big picture”…just the next four weeks or so.

. . . . . . . .

More info on this New Moon here. Also, at The Solar Influence-Virgo to get some ideas about what area(s) of your life are getting the strongest focus now.

One more thing. This week try to keep things simple and basic, as this is the approach that will work best now. No need to complicate things when they aren’t really needed. Pare things down to is essential.

And be sure to plant those seeds for what it is you are wanting to see grow during this next month. And pay attention to the messages that may come in some unusual way now as the veils are thin and the mystical is close.

Know that the Light during this dark phase of the Lunar cycle is found within,

~Elizabeth

And I might say it this way: It takes courage to grow and become who you really are.

. . . . . .

The Leo New Moon is tonight, the 9th, at 8:08 pm PDT and it is, in essence, an invitation to ourselves. It empathizes how you go about expressing your unique gifts, talents and offerings. Are you confident and self assured? Do you trust yourself to even know how to do this? The Leo spark available to all now can help you to find the courage and enthusiasm to act with boldness, planting seeds in the direction you want your life to be going. This dynamic energy is an expression of your own connection to Source.

The challenge and the question now is this:

Are you willing to change what must be changed in order to create the space and time
in your life to be an expression of your own true Divine self?
What if you were told it is really your only task?
What if it was the only thing on your “to-do” list?

What might that look like? What would it feel like?

“Is this the real deal?” you might wonder as you are feeling and thinking about just where to place your intention and focus now. Well, a key is that “it” will warm the heart and get you enthused. This is the gift of this Leo New Moon. To help you to identify your “real deal”.

. . . . . .

Some ideas as to how to best use these dynamic energies are:

• Plant seeds and initiate plans for ways to express who you truly are. Spiritual growth that emphasizes self-expression and expansion of your essential nature is strong under this time of Leo.
• During this cycle, until the next New Moon on 9/8, what you declare now will grow and gain strength if you persevere and have courage.
• Follow your passions~the world awaits your offering and your passions will lead you to them!
• Generosity of spirit is a Leo quality and the gateway to blessings. Express gratitude!
• Be courageous and fearless.
• Focus on those activities that bring you happiness and joy.
• Be sure to make time to have some fun during this playful energy. Joy is near by!

and this will
definitely continue into next month.

• 23rd-Jupiter stations retrograde at 3 degrees Aries until 11/18.
• 24th-Jupiter (while stationing) squares Pluto in Capricorn.
• 25th-Full Moon in Aquarius (at 3 degrees at 6:37 pm PDT).
• 26th-Saturn opposite Uranus at 0 degrees Libra/Aries.

Rather than go into each of these separately, I will write about their collective influence because they are occurring so close together. First, this is rare. It just doesn’t happen too often that four events, of such magnitude, occur in such a short time period. This will only intensify each of them. Intensify how? Let’s look at this.

www.spacetimeart.com

There are common energetic threads running between these influences: they all can expand whatever they are influencing. So for several days this sense of expansion and feelings of things increasing beyond where they were originally will be pervasive. Things can blow up out of proportion, increase in size, develop into mountains where they were just mole hills…perhaps you get the picture.

Current Events
There are two events in the news that are concerning me now. One is that the hurricane season is upon us. Under these influences any storm that arises could expand quickly and in unexpected fashion. How this may impact the Gulf oil situation is beyond what anyone can predict, but I feel things will go in unanticipated directions.

The other situation is regarding No. Korea. The headlines say they are “ramping up” threats against the U.S. military. Sounds ominous to me. And even if nothing comes of this in the immediate future, it does concern me because of the fact that it is occurring now, under such potent events that will have long-reaching influences. This suggests that this move on No. Korea’s part is only the beginning, or continuation of, their aggressive behaviors.  An acceleration of this event could happen anytime during the next three weeks as the square of Jupiter and Pluto will last that long, and the impact of this could be war-like in nature.

Another time to watch is February, 2011 when they square again. And yet another is when Jupiter stations direct in mid-November. I cannot stress enough how rare and truly volatile these astrological events can be. It is certainly a threat to take seriously.

These are not the only influences occurring during this Summer, and there are others that may well act like triggers. In general, the influence of these are that things could change quickly, and in unexpected ways. I fully expect there will be other unusual and even extraordinary current events taking place during this time. Some may even be shocking and upsetting. Those involving or impacting groups and/or large numbers of people are possible. Others may also include “natural phenomena” such as earthquakes, extreme weather or rapidly spreading fires.

. . . . . .

So how might these be impacting us personally?
In a variety of ways. Here are some possibilities:

• Whatever is taking place, it could happen quickly, as these events will move energy along at a brisk pace.
• Expect the unexpected. Don’t assume you know outcomes.
• While some things may come to an abrupt end, others may begin just as quickly.
• Keep this in mind: things want to change. There is a shift happening and it is in full swing.
• You may notice lots of coincidences and strange things occurring around you. It could get interesting.
• New vitality and excitement are available. Look for the spark and follow that.
• New cycles are starting, and it warrants new and fresh perspectives and approaches.
• Think outside the box. In fact, think with no boxes at all. All bets are off. Anything is possible now.
• All of the above could impact any area of your life: relationships, work, finances, home, etc.
• Opportunities could arise out of nowhere. Pay attention to what is entering your life now.

In essence, we are being challenged to enter into new territory. To embrace change.
A good place to begin is wherever you have become stagnant.

. . . . . .

Feeling anxious, panicky, tense, edgy or uneasy are all possible during this time.
Two primary reasons for these feelings at this time are:

• We humans don’t like too much change as a rule, especially if we don’t know what it is that is coming or from which direction.
• Also there is a lot of energy swirling around the ethers during this time, and if you are sensitive to picking up the emotions of others, then you will especially notice this.

Protect yourself by calling on the Light. And do those things that help you stay grounded and centered (eat well, walk, get rest, hug trees…stuff like that). This feeling of empathy will be especially strong during the time of the Full Moon, on the 25th, as this particular lunation increases the sense of unity and oneness by dissolving the boundaries that separate us.

Overall, this is an amazing time. And in case I wasn’t clear, the four events I list above are only part of what is happening. There is another “round” of events happening at the end of the month and into August. More on that later.

For now, hold on, and pay attention. In the midst of all this craziness and intensity, there may be a miracle thrown in.

Blessings and Light,

~Elizabeth

In the four+ decades that I have been studying Astrology, there have only been a handful of times when the planets have aligned in as tight and intense of configuration as they are now. And as we enter the height of the potent celestial energies many have been talking and writing about, I wanted to step back a bit and look at two specific things:

• One is to give a brief overview of the the astrological events that brought us to this time of powerful shifts and change.
• And second, to address how these events are impacting some people in very intense and challenging ways. So if you are one of those, read on.

Many astrologers would agree that the current pattern of intensity began when Pluto entered Capricorn in January, 2008. As this began to be felt, it seemed to challenge the very ground we stood on. Things began to shift at such fundamental levels that many began thinking “will things ever be the same?”. Perhaps you were one of them?

Later in 2008, on November 4th (which just happened to be Election Day) the first of five Saturn-Uranus oppositions occurred. A rare event not to occur again for decade. Saturn and Uranus interacting in this way was sure to really shake up the status quo. There have been 3 since, with the final of the five occurring at the end of this month, on July 26th. (NOTE: I will be writing more on this final opposition in a few days). Clearly the Universe has been trying to get it through to us that things do not stay the same, and that in fact is in a constant state of flux.

In many ways, 2009 was a set-up for the rare and dynamic celestial events that would occur in 2010. As Pluto kept working away at the early degrees of Capricorn during 2009,  the impact of this was felt in at least a few ways:

An Abstract~Julia Set

• It was becoming clearer and clearer that issues at deeper levels were emerging. What had not been previously seen or even intentionally avoided, was now starting to surface. As a result, changes started to happen that impacted our basic sense of security and “ground of being”. What was once solid and reliable didn’t feel quite so much anymore.
  ..
• As the year went on, these issues just kept being presented to our awareness in ways that were getting harder and harder to ignore. Whatever was “wrong” or unhealthy at the foundation of our life was becoming quite apparent, making it no longer possible to hide what had been hidden in the shadows.
  ..
• This was happening both in our personal environments as well as the world at large. The decay, corruption, misuse of power and/or old destructive regimes were beginning to be seen more and more on the surface, as the “transparency” of corporations with hidden agendas, dogmatic-entrenched religions and out-of-touch governments became real.

The astrological events taking place this summer brings all this energy that has been building to a critical point on the path. The Lunar Eclipse of June 26th and the Solar Eclipse of July 11th were triggers. And there is more to come in the next few weeks, and in rapid succession. I will continue writing about the events still to come, but for now, I want to address the 2nd point of this article, which is the fact that this have been a very difficult time for some.

. . . . . .

So, have things been rather intense for you?
Many are feeling the impact of these things at deep, personal levels which can be most upsetting and even traumatic. I have heard of long-term marriages falling apart, people losing jobs, health issues to be dealt with and many who are feeling off, depressed or panicky and anxious for no specific reasons.

Before I go further, a comment to those of you not feeling the turmoil or challenges that many are during this time.
If you aren’t really experiencing the intensity of these energies in ways that are difficult or uncomfortable, it may be that these events are just not hitting sensitive areas in your own chart, and thus not triggering you. It could also be that you have developed very effective coping skills over the years and that staying grounded, centered and calm during a storm is something you have learned how to do.

This said, please consider that someone around you may not be experiencing the intensity of these events with as much grace, and would really appreciate some assistance during this time. As the Great Ones said, we get by with a little help from our friends. Also keep in mind that if you are facing extremely challenging circumstances in your life, receiving help from professionals may be what is called for, and perhaps beyond the scope of the things mentioned here.

. . . . .

So here’s how I am seeing it: If this has been a particularly difficult time, it is very likely that Saturn is the planet you are feeling the most intensely. Yes there are other things going on, and if any of those are directly affecting your chart, you will surely be feeling them as well. Yet, Saturn is notorious for bringing us the tough lessons. I will add that if Saturn is impacting your chart, then Uranus is as well these days because of where they each are in the sky. And indeed, Uranus will bring the lessons of Saturn up in sometimes unexpected, disruptive and even shocking ways.

There are several reasons I say that Saturn may be the main culprit here, and to go too far into these are beyond the scope of this article, but let’s just say that between it’s station of earlier this year while squaring Pluto, the opposition with Uranus and now it being at the last degrees of Virgo, it appears to me as though it is running the show. We each have to come to terms with just what Saturn is about as it holds very important pieces to the whole puzzle. It is, after all, The Lord of Karma.

Saturn’s influence will be strongly felt until it reaches what is called its “shadow point”, which isn’t until  the first week of September. So if you are noticing any of the things listed below, know that the lessons associated with them may not feel complete until early Fall. And if it is aspecting sensitive areas in your own chart, then this is especially true.

Saturn is the Great Teacher, and when it is pressing hard upon us, it essentially is wanting us to learn something. And that once we acknowledge this, and reflect on what it wants us to learn, it usually loosens it’s grip a bit, and a new pathway out of the dilemma is revealed.

But before that can happen, here are some ways you may be feeling Saturn, and the lessons it wants us to learn:

1. Since the end of last year (or even before), this has been a very confining time, which may have increased recently. It could seem as though there is just no way out of a difficult situation. Perhaps in some way the past has now caught up with the present and you cannot see how the future  will be any different. You realize that your choices of the past are bearing fruit now, for better or worse. You feel stuck. This may be impacting your relationships, health, finances or overall attitude.

KEY: If the choices you made in the past created your life now in some way, then the choices you make now will create your future-right? Is it time to make different choices? Those more in line with your authentic self? No planetary influence can teach us the Power of Choice like Saturn~the Lord of Karma and the ruler of the Law of Cause and Effect.

. . . . .

2. You feel as though nothing you do produces the changes you intended. Everything is at a standstill, and it doesn’t feel good. You are running out of steam.

KEY: Yes, Saturn does want to teach us patience. And indeed, we all have had to learn a lot about this in the past several months, even couple years. A key to dealing with this is to consider the very real importance of timing. That things happen when they do…that just because WE want whatever-NOW, it may not really be the right time in the overall scheme of things for that to occur.

Further, Saturn’s lesson in this regard is not only of learning patience and timing, but also faith and stamina. Spend time reflecting on each of these qualities. Journal about how you feel about being patient, about having to wait, maybe even a long time, for something you really want. Then consider what it is to persevere, to stay with something long enough to give it a real chance to manifest in the physical realm. And indeed, developing a strong Faith is so very important.

Once Saturn changes signs and enters Libra on July 21st, energy that has been held back may well release, especially since it will be instantly impacted by Uranus, the Great Awakener, at zero degrees of Aries. I “predict” that much will be changing, and rapidly, in the weeks to come. But will it all be wine and roses? I doubt it. It could be that what it has been holding back will have its own challenges once released. Again, keep asking to learn the lessons as this is the best way I know to help mitigate the negative influences.

. . . . .

3. You just feel exhausted and depressed. Doors are closing, people may be leaving your life (for various reasons) and you feel like your life is passing you by. Saturn rules time and getting older and if you are feeling these things, then perhaps you are feeling grief or loss over what you will never be able to do. You may have regrets or guilt over what happened or sadness over what didn’t.

Reach up as far as you can and God will reach down the rest of the way.

KEY: I have a quote I love to remember when I feel like this: “The wheel of life turns and we must turn with it.” If we do not, we will miss what each stage of life has to offer. Saturn helps us to let go by making it clear when something is complete in our life, whether a relationship, a commitment or even a phase and this is integral to moving forward into our own future. I truly believe that our  Soul has mapped out a “best case scenario” for each of the stages of our life.

Try asking your Soul: So what’s next? What do you have planned for us now? And most important, What can I do to facilitate this coming into being? And keep this in mind: there are many astrological events coming up that will bring in a new cycle. Nothing stays the same.

. . . . .

You can read more information about the influence of Saturn at a recent post I wrote: Saturn’s Swan Song and also at this article on  Saturn in Virgo. Please know that if Saturn has triggered a key area in your chart, you may continue to feel its influence for sometime to come. Getting a reading will help you to better understand these influence and how long they will be impacting you, with many additional ideas and keys to working with the energies.

I hope this information has helped if this has been a challenging time for you. 

Sending you Light and Blessings,

~Elizabeth

P.S. Another page on my site you may want to check out is Connecting To Your Own Light.

Solar Eclipse over Easter Island Credit: www.astrosurf.com/sguisard/

..
The two weeks following an eclipse can be quite interesting, to say the least.
While many of you many be feeling shifts, you may not be able to put your finger on it as you find yourself wondering: what just happened?
An activation of things inner and outer, known and unknown, some of which you can see and feel and some you cannot at this time, has just occurred.

Are experiencing one of the following:

If you’re asking things like “what’s next? where do I go from here?”…
it is likely you felt shifts take place internally (emotionally or mentally) but not noticing  changes externally (in the physical). Keep in mind two things: One is that nothing can happen externally before it is conceived of internally. New patterns develop from the inside out.

And two, there is more to come. Meaning, we are truly in the midst of the powerful energies influencing us all this Summer (and beyond). “God gave us time so we didn’t have to do everything at once.” Be patient and be present to what is happening within.

Gary Woltal's Blog http://tinyurl.com/2dqxf55

Are you feeling anxious or uneasy but don’t know why?
This eclipse hit on a deep nerve for many, bringing up issues related to home, family and belonging. Memories got activated. Old, and new, patterns revealed.

My suggestion is to stay with the process…let things flow for a few days. Much is still ahead that will reveal the pattern wanting to present itself in your life.

This eclipse created openings for new and higher possibilities to occur in your life. New perspectives, understandings and insights will, over time, result in new experiences and directions. It is only natural for you to feel confused, perhaps a little shaky and unsure. For now, keep inquiring as to what is occurring within and be gentle with yourself and those around you. Many are feeling vulnerable and ultra sensitive.

Perhaps what was once your ceiling is now becoming your floor…though that does make the place you are standing on a bit unstable as it all sorts itself, but surely it will.

Trusting, asking for guidance and surrendering to the process are keys for sure.

Many blessings of light to you,

~Elizabeth

P.S. You will find ideas as to how to work with the Cancerian energies that are the focus now at Cancer here, at Monthly Transit Talk. Lots of insights as to how to navigate the reverberations from the recent eclipses. Better understanding what this time is about will help you to keep your focus clear and your heart open.

“The Self awakens only as he contacts the Earth.”
~ Dane Rudhyar

The Solar Eclipse on July 11th is occurring in Cancer at 12:41 pm, which rules home, among other things. And while it rules our physical home, the place where we live, in a Universal sense it also rules the intended home for our own higher consciousness. This higher part of each of us has a very specific agenda in this regard and that is to descend into its home in the physical realm, specifically in our body. I feel this Solar Eclipse will create openings for this to occur.

Dane Rudhyar, considered by many to be one of the greatest astrologers of the last century, says the sign of Cancer is where “the abstract word is made flesh…the fulfillment of Spirit that must embody in earth-substance”.  And that “until the ‘I Am’ urge of our true spiritual self asserts itself into form (i.e. the body) living is only dreaming.”

As I read this, and consider its meaning, I could feel my own higher Self quicken within me as the desire to give this Self a home in my own body seemed to become more real. I saw anew that the fulfillment of Life is the descent of Spirit into Matter. And for each of us this manifests as our Soul presence residing and finding its home in our body.

“Matter is our foundation and the first condition of all our energies and realizations.”
~Sri Aurobindo

So what does this mean? First is to awaken to the reality that our body is our home. Then to create a place within our being to be a home that is able to carry the Light of our own Soul. This is our foundation, which we must have if we are to heal feelings of separation and isolation. In thinking about this, I wonder if how “at home” we feel, in a more general sense, is in direct relation to how fully incarnated our Soul presence is.

If you feel a strong urge to be a part of the healing that is needed on the planet now, though are not sure what that is or how to make that happen, could it be that your primary task is to welcome yourself Home?

Here is another thought that occurred to me…
Could it be that the Earth herself, being the benevolent Mother that she is, is allowing the injustices being done to her to help us awaken out of our slumber? Is the pain and frustration we feel a way to shock us into awakening so that we hear the call of our own Soul? And that this will in turn empower each of us with the resources and awareness that we must have to respond to her call for help? A friend once said to me “it is too great a task to be born unconsenting”. Did we all sign up for this? I believe we did.

Yet another thought…
In order to fulfill our purpose, must we first begin the process of healing our separation from our Soul? What could be more healing, and empowering, than that of welcoming our own Soul into our bodies, and thus into our lives?

Could it be that as we each do this to greater and greater degrees (as I am quite certain it happens in increments) that the Earth will also heal and become whole. It is said that we are One…are we all be a part of her destiny and perhaps even her Soul? And that as we each tend to our own Soul-Self becoming at home in our body, thus becoming more whole, that the Earth will as well?

These are big concepts, I know. Maybe even a little wild. Yet these are the thoughts I find myself thinking as we enter the energies of this Solar Eclipse~New Moon in Cancer. Perhaps they trigger something deep within you?

. . . . .

The Path of the Eclipse

Eclipse Path of July, 2010

A solar eclipse has a narrow path as it moves across the Earth, and astrologers feel that where that path is has significance of its own. (The path is created by the moon’s shadow as it races across the Earth, an inspiring image to behold itself.)

Easter Island at Sunset

This eclipse crosses directly over Easter Island. The chances of this are truly astronomical! I can’t help but revel in the fact that the secrets these ancient standing stones hold may be activated in the collective psyche in some way. Perhaps they hold keys to our own origin and even destiny?

The Influence of the Lunar Nodes
All eclipses are aligned with either the North or the South node. The North Node is considered to be where we are heading and the South Node where we have come from. This Eclipse is aligned with, or conjunct, the South Node, representing the past in some way. This suggests that indeed it could be bringing to our awareness, out of our deep memory (Cancer does rule our memories), our ancient past and original purpose.

So is this Eclipse an opening to us consciously remembering our true purpose for being alive at this time? Could it be a call from our ancient past to our present to wake up and remember who we are? Surely there be openings during this time allowing greater unification with our Higher Self.

“There are billions of Souls wanting to incarnate at this time.
Your being alive during the next several decades is such a precious gift.”
~Told to me by my Grandfather in the early 1970’s

..

Deep Space by deviantART

The essence of what I am saying is this…
The energies of this Solar Eclipse and the other Cardinal influences occurring now are designed to activate our ancient memories so that we can see and know that our true destiny is to be here now, in our bodies, on the Earth at this powerful time of accelerated planetary change and Soul evolution.

This activation will decrease the resistance of our egos, which will assist us to align our lower will with our higher will, plus bring us the insights needed to move our life onto new, Soul-directed paths.

. . . . . .

The Great Work to be done on our planet at this time is daunting
if we are not aware of and able to utilize the power and resources our Soul brings us.
We are not doing this alone…to do so is exhausting indeed.

What a privilege to be here, incarnated, at this time. The words of my Grandfather have more meaning to me now than ever. To open to this energy, start by simply being in awe at the wonder of it all.

Blessings and Light,
~Elizabeth

You can read Part Two, Influence of the Solar Eclipse, here.

*The quotes by Dane Rudhyar in the article are from “New Mansions for New Men”. In it, he refers to the fourth house, ruled by Cancer, as “the fourth mansion”.

[Part 1 of 2,which will be posted Saturday, July 10th]

© 2010 by Elizabeth Jones. All rights reserved.
Feel free to forward or link this article, but please do so without change or alteration,
and giving credit to © www.astrologyoflight.com & Elizabeth Jones

[This is the 2nd part of two articles on the Solar Eclipse of July 11, 2010. You can read part one, Coming Home to Your Life, here.]

In the first part of this 2-part article on the Solar Eclipse of 7/11/10, I discussed the spiritual significance of of the Eclipse. Here I will discuss more about the aspects and the impact of the Eclipse. Please note that if you are reading these articles after the eclipse the information given is applicable for several weeks afterward as that is how long the eclipse will have an impact.

. . . . .

On July 11, 1991 there was a solar eclipse in Cancer whose path went directly over the big island of Hawaii and I was fortunate enough to be there. Ever since, I have been an absolute Eclips-oholic. It was an experience I put in the top five most amazing of my life. During the eclipse of last July, I wrote: Solar & Lunar Eclipses ~ Mayhem or Magic?
Here is an excerpt, as the information applies now as well:

How do Eclipses affect us?

There are two  Solar Eclipses each year and this one is quite potent for sure. Will there be some calamity whereby the World will hover on the edge of disaster as a direct result of this Eclipse? I’m going to say, No. Is it significant from an Astrological point of view. Yes, quite so. Before we go there, let’s look a bit closer at just what a Solar Eclipse is.

During a Solar Eclipse, the Moon comes between the Earth and the Sun, blocking out the Sun itself, which amazingly reveals the Sun’s corona, as in the photo above.
Have you ever considered why this most remarkable of natural events even happens? Let’s start with the fact that there are two discs, in our sky, the Sun and the Moon, that appear to be of about equal size. Yet we know they are not of equal size, so what’s really going on here?

The Magic of 400
Why Solar Eclipses even occur: The Sun is 400 times further from the Earth than the Moon, AND the Moon is 400 times smaller than the Sun. Hence, they appear to be the same size to us as we gaze upon them in the sky. And so on these bi-annual events called Solar Eclipses, when, during a new moon, the Moon crosses in front of the Sun, it is able to block out the Sun, revealing it’s corona. All this because of the 400-400 phenomena. What are the chances? In fact, the Moon is actually falling out of orbit with the Earth (this will take millions of years) and as it does, solar eclipses are becoming of increasingly less duration.

How may the Eclipse influence you?
When the Moon eclipses and blocks out the Sun, our emotions can seem stronger or more active than our higher-functioning self, and that part of us is diminished to some degree, we can feel a little crazy or off center, which can generate feelings of fear and instability. (This is true of both solar and lunar eclipses, but especially true of Lunar. Again, more on the upcoming lunar eclipse in a couple weeks.)

During this time, it is true that you may feel off and more emotional and sensitive than usual. And this influence is certainly not confined to just the day of the eclipse, and is strongest the two weeks before and after. But why do we feel this way? Because the “normal” balance of our emotional nature (the Moon) and our higher self (the Sun) is thrown off. We are used to them being in a certain relationship to each other, which is most likely “out of alignment”, but normal to us nonetheless. We usually walk around with our lower (ego) and higher selves (Soul) not in a state of mutual awareness, or alignment (read part one of this article). And so, during solar eclipses, when they are more aligned than at other times, we feel odd, off, different than usual. Things are more intense and even surreal. But, is this a bad thing? No. Not at all. The trick is to make a conscious effort  to adjust to this increased sense of Self as well as our personal Universe.

The Solar Eclipse path will go directly over Easter Island

How to align with these potent energies
If you look at the images of a solar eclipse, such as those on this page, you will notice that the corona is clearly visible, which of course it usually is not. This is, to me, beautiful beyond anything I have ever seen. What is that amazing glow around the Sun? Can you  imagine that the Light around the Sun is a representation of the Light around you. As you tune into this Light, you can actually activate or charge your auric field, which can be energizing and bring you clarity, insights and guidance.

. . . . .

Other significant aspects of this eclipse chart

~There are three prominent quincunxes occurring at the time of the Eclipse.
These aspects can either hide things from our view or reveal what is hidden. Here are some keys to working with this so that you won’t be caught off guard:

• Look in unusual places for answers. Ask different questions than usual, and perhaps of people you don’t usually seek help from.
• Do not assume that you know your weakest link, or what is in you own “blind spot”.  Turn to see it directly. Ask for whatever it is to be revealed to you with clarity.
• When seeking out answers or guidance, be open and willing to find something different than what you thought it would be.

~Jupiter is squaring Pluto.
While I will be writing more about this later this month, it is worth making mention of this event here. Jupiter in Aries is a call to expand our life force in some way. Perhaps you could say it is an activator for our own essence to grow and become stronger. Pluto in Capricorn may try to contain that in some old form that you have outgrown. This combo suggests that as you seek to expand into a higher level of consciousness, you must go through layers of old patterns, or even wounds, in order to do this. Some keys do this not being quite so uncomfortable, and actually a productive process, are:

Realize that this expanded state of consciousness is your True Self, and that as it expands into your awareness some false aspect of your identity will likely resist, fighting for its very life. Lots here, I know (I can feel it as I write!). Trust your True Self to lead you through this process.

Uranus, the Great Awakener, is nearby to keep you from getting too bogged down or stuck. Keep asking to Awaken in whatever ways you are ready to do so!

~Saturn is still at the last degree of Virgo. (Read more about this influence here.)
The fact that it is here during this eclipse strongly suggests to me that an old cycle is ending and that a new one is at hand. Here’s the good news about this: You really are ready to complete the old pattern or you wouldn’t be here, doing what you are doing, trying to awaken to your Soul (or reading this article!). Saturn means it when it says “You’re done now”, “it’s over”, “end of this phase”, “time to move on”. If you have been feeling that you are at the end of something, that you are done with a particular pattern, belief or situation in your life, I say believe it!

I offer several “keys” in my post “Saturn’s Swan Song” to better understand the impact and meaning of Saturn being here. Perhaps it would help to re-read it to see how you can facilitate the endings that are ready to take place in your life at this time.

The Bottom Line
This Eclipse marks a turning point from an old way of living to a new one. It is an invitation to take up the task of Living in greater alignment and with an expanded awareness of your Prime Directive~for your body to be the home of your Soul.

To live our true purpose, our true Soul work, we must be in our bodies. We must descend into our “earth home”. For then, we have the true power and wisdom of our own higher self to more directly influence our life. Read more about this in Part One of this 2-part article on this Solar Eclipse.

Cancer is the sign that rules the qualities and acts of nurturing. And there is no more important act than nurturing yourself, tending to your own being, so that your Soul can feel at home on Earth. This, in turn, will give you the power to create the life you were meant to have and to fulfill your true purpose at this most important time on Earth.

Blessings and Light to you during this most amazing time,

~Elizabeth

. . . . .

© 2010 by Elizabeth Jones. All rights reserved.
Feel free to forward or link this article, but please do so without change or alteration,
and giving credit to © www.astrologyoflight.com & Elizabeth Jones

(Please note: While this article was written about the Lunar Eclipse on June 26th, there is much information here that is applicable far beyond the Eclipse. This article was originally called: Lunar Eclipse:Divine Wake-Up Call.)

The Full Moon/Lunar Eclipse on June 26th at 4:31 am PDT, is getting a lot of attention, mostly because it is directly connected to the strong emphasis on Cardinal signs this summer. It is, indeed, a powerful celestial event which has actually been impacting us for several weeks now, and will continue to do so until fall, and perhaps beyond.

Eclipses are catalysts for profound change, triggering events that bring awakenings and new realizations to those areas ruled by the signs the eclipse is taking place in, in this case, Cancer and Capricorn.

Cancer rules our home, families, legacies and traditions, and also our ability and capacity to nurture and be nurtured. It is a sensitive, emotional sign, often evoking nostalgic memories of the past. From an esoteric viewpoint, it also rules the ancient memories of our true origins and our purpose for being here on Earth. These memories are deeply embedded within our own being, and also the Earth herself, as she is an integral part of our journey as she embraces us while we find our way home.

Capricorn rules all forms of established authority, such as governmental agencies, doctrines and law, bosses and management, and fathers and father figures. It is partially through these external entities that we each learn about authority, about the “right”, or accepted, ways of doing things, and these rules and standards have a large influence on what becomes our own criteria for what I will call The Guidelines For Our Life. Through this rather complex dynamic, we establish our own inner authority.

When we look at the external world and the events taking place in it, it is easy to feel sad, frustrated and even unsafe in our environment. Our home, the Earth, is being damaged and in some ways even ruined and destroyed. We have so little power over the decisions made by the “establishment”, yet they impact us in so many ways, the Gulf oil situation certainly being one. But there are many others, such as the deterioration of our food sources and water supplies, of toxins being poured into our rivers and oceans, wars we never consented to, of the unjust treatment of animals and even our children.

All these are directly ruled by the sign of Cancer~being what we are meant to be nurtured by and then in turn are supposed to be nurturing. A good balance between these two signs would be structures and laws that establish sustainable, natural foundations so that we all can thrive and live, and evolve and grow.

There are many ways to look at the various, possible influences of the celestial events taking place now, one being the eclipse on Saturday. But as I have thought about how I want to tackle the complexities of them, two things keep presenting themselves as being of particular significance.

One is that the Moon, which is the ruler of Cancer, is in the opposite sign of Capricorn during the eclipse. This is not considered a very positive placement for the Moon, as it can be cold and distant. Your feelings (Cancer) may seem to be unheard, especially by some form of established authority (Capricorn). Our voice is like an echo that when spoken is remote and out of range of being heard by anyone who can do anything about our very real concerns. I sometimes wonder: Is anyone really listening to the deep fears and concerns many are feeling now?

Our Inner Authority
As I said, the sign of Capricorn rules not only the various forms of outer authority, but also our own inner authority. So while it does rule the laws and standards that dictate to us much of how we are to live, it also rules those things that we have come to name as our inner authority, which essentially determine how we go about our own life and the things that are within our direct control.

It has occurred to me that when we see how careless and even reckless those who have the power to “run the world” are, does that become at some difficult-to-detect level what we use as our own criteria for living? A “whatever”, I-will-think-about-it-tomorrow, “let someone else do it” kind of attitude?

What I am really addressing here is this: Is the carelessness in our governmental agencies and other systems of authority a reflection of our own inner authority, or lack thereof? Have we given away our power because we don’t want to take care of certain things ourselves, and would rather turn our heads, letting someone else do it for us? Taking personal responsibility is a big task, indeed. Yet, it is an integral aspect of awakening and evolving spiritually.

But now, everything has gotten so out of whack, so out of balance, that the unseen forces that uphold the natural balance of Life (and they do certainly exist) are now acting in ways that reflect the deep imbalance in our very existence. We have clearly gotten out of sync with Life. And that is what I think is being reflected in the astrological events taking place this summer through 2012, and beyond actually, and this Lunar Eclipse, is the trigger. This is, indeed, a powerful turning point for each of us, and for humanity as well.

And so it comes down to this: the events taking place now are only a reflection of what is out of balance in our world. And this is largely because we have given away our authority, and so now, no surprise, we feel powerless to change things.  As I said in my Uranus in Aries article, the greatest thing we can do for our planet is to wake up ourselves. And as we do, our true purpose as caretakers of the Earth and of the life force within each one of us will be revealed.

Astrology: The Cosmic Mirror
A fundamental precept of astrology is this: As above, so below. It is a mirror being held before us to see ourselves as the heavens see us. But it is more than just a reflection, as it also holds important keys to turning all this around so that we begin to live in greater alignment with higher truth and Universal Law.

Here is another way of saying this: with every celestial event, there is a lower and higher expression of that energy. However we choose to respond to these influences is up to us, personally and societially. This is, in essence, how free will works in direct relation to astrology.

To date, mankind has chosen many of the lower expressions of these celestial events, for sure. And yet, as I said, this cannot continue for much longer because we are out of sync with the Universal Laws, which is indeed a higher law than those we create. And it is now time for that to become known in ways that cannot be ignored. It is time to restore natural balance.

www.chrismower.com

Personal Responsibility
This begins with each of us. There is just no other way. We must each take greater responsibility for our own life and for the well being of those entrusted to us. Taking care of that which I know is mine to take care of: my body, my home, my children, their future home and security and my own life force that exists within me.

Are you doing what you know you should to create a sane and balanced life? If not, you will feel very uneasy about the events taking place these days. That unease may exist as a low level anxiety, or as feelings of foreboding and fear. This is a complex issue, and I don’t think for a minute that all aspects of it are being addressed in this article. Yet, we must begin our understanding someplace. And we must keep asking the hard questions of ourselves. We must not give in to the fear or the old patterns, even if they are the line of least resistance, which makes it so much easier to just turn away. Aspiring to the highest truth and expression we can at our present state of awareness is critically important.

Please know that I know there are many things pulling at all of us. Life constantly brings us real distractions that keep us from living in such a way that creates and restores balance and natural, responsible living. Yet, it is time.

As we each take greater personal responsibility for our own actions and even our own thoughts, those entities that have authority over us and over our society will become reflections of us. They will become more responsible and will honor the Earth, and its inhabitants and the real reason we are here to greater and greater degrees. This will take time, perhaps a long time, but the Call has sounded, and will continue to sound until we truly hear. It can be no other way, for it is about nothing less than the natural, and Divine, order of things, of which we are all a creation of.

Again, the Lunar Eclipse is bringing such things to light and is reflected in the current events taking place on the planet. Many are feeling “a disturbance in the force”, if you will. Something is up, I keep hearing and sensing. This may come through bizarre weather patterns, a horrific hurricane season, a crumbling economy or oil spewing into the Gulf waters, harming the life that depends upon the natural balance of nature and is now being threatened.

There certainly are signs that things are changing, such as greater corporate transparency (there sure have been a lot of recalls lately!), more information coming forth about the laws being passed, increasing political activism and more people living in ways that are in alignment with the environment. But of course, there is much more that needs to happen.

This brings me to the other event influencing us all now, which is the Uranus-Jupiter conjunction in Aries squaring the eclipse. This powerful duo is the perfect energy for challenging the established ways, whether personal or external. It is hitting us where we are most complacent and saying “what the heck are you doing?”. Through sometimes shocking events and realizations, we are forced to see that the established way of doing things is just not working any longer.

This potent influence will be around for a while, so I expect there will be more events taking place this summer that may shock us and continue to challenge how things are being done. It is a loud Divine Wake-up Call. I pray we are all listening and heeding this Call, for if we are not, the Universal forces will surely yell louder until we do.

Many blessings to you during this time of increased Light,
~Elizabeth

*See Uranus in Aries~A Divine Wake-up Call for Part I.

. . . . .

© 2010 by Elizabeth Jones. All rights reserved.
Feel free to forward or link this article, but please do so without change or alteration,
and giving credit to © www.astrologyoflight.com & Elizabeth Jones

The Gemini New Moon is this Saturday at 4:14 am PDT. And since this New Moon is the one preceding the much anticipated Full Moon Lunar Eclipse on June 26th*, its impact is of particular significance, as it sets up the energy for that Full Moon.

Perhaps the most important thing to keep in mind regarding this New Moon in Gemini is that is a potent and fertile time for consciously utilizing the power of thought by directing the mind through mental energy.

During this Lunar phase is a perfect time to plant mental seeds
for what you want to create in the future,
and to have grow and increase in your life.
This happens whether we are attentive and aware of what we are doing or not.

Hence, in order to utilize this energy, it is important to be mindful of the nature of your thoughts for the few days before the New Moon during the balsamic phase through the New Moon (6/10-6/14). (*More coming on the Full Moon/Lunar Eclipse soon.)

. . . . . .

“Our mental facilities are the outflow of the Essence-of-Life,
and not the creating power in and of itself,
but rather what gives direction to it.”
~Thomas Troward

In essence, the power of your mind is in how you direct this Essence-of-Life. To the degree that you do so with your awareness, you co-create the life you want**. Being attentive to the nature of our thoughts is especially important now, during this time of the Gemini New Moon. Hence, positive and uplifting thoughts will open the way for things of that nature to occur in your life. And that now, during this Gemini New Moon phase, it is especially important to actively make choices that raise the frequency of your thoughts. (**There are other aspects to this, such as karmic patterns, aligning with Universal Laws and others, which is beyond the scope of this article to go into.)

New ideas and information that come into your mind now will open the doors from the Higher Mind to the lower mind, with insights and guidance as to how to best co-create your life in accordance with Divine Will.

Here are some areas you may receive insights now:

• Future projects and ventures and where to take them next or haw to develop them further.
• Answers to problems you have been dealing with may appear in interesting ways you didn’t anticipate.
• New ideas may come to you during this time. If so-pay attention!

I suggest that you write things down to refer to later. Know that if you get information, ideas or insights that don’t make sense now, it may later.

By focusing, you can use this energy to get clear about these things and then strengthen your resolve by using positive affirmations, images and visualizations to align your mental focus with your desired intention. Make a declaration and a matching vision board to support this process. As the month goes on you may well notice how things are coming into manifestation and that, in fact, progress is being made.

One suggestion for dealing with negative, fearful or anxious thoughts is that you ask that the frequency of your thoughts be raised to a higher level, then see your mind and above your head surrounded by Light. Hold this image for a few moments. This simple exercise will open the pathways to the higher mind, allowing your thoughts to elevate in natural ways. If you do this often, it will begin to occur organically, even when you are not directing it to do so.

. . . . . .

Here are some other things to consider now:

• You may have significant conversations where new ideas are discussed and connections are made that become important over time.
• Notice what triggers you mentally and catches you attention. Again, these are things that may be important to you in the near future.
• Ask your higher mind for answers during this time.
• Are there new attitudes you would like to adopt?
• Are you needing to make an important decision soon that you need insights about?
• Are you learning something new?
• Simply stated: setting mental intentions for a perfect outcome and result now will help to bring success in the near future.

A word or two of caution: It is possible that you are feeling overwhelmed or over stimulated mentally. Doing those things that keep you grounded will help. And so will just slowing down and taking deep breaths. Writing and journaling are also suggested as ways to ground this mental energy. And be sure to listen well as others have things to say, too!