Music To My Ears

Many of you may not know this but way back when (circa 2008), before I became an astrologer, I was a part of the indie art scene here in NYC for a few years. I wrote poetry, I dabbled in filmmaking, I performed onstage and at open mics, I went to all the underground art shows and indie concerts. And then somewhere along the line, I kind of fell out of love with the scene and gave that part of myself up as I moved on to pursuing a new direction in my life and career.

Then, about two months ago, I received an email from a very talented musician and composer, Marquis Hill. Marquis had the idea to do an astrology themed album and invited me to collaborate with him on it. I jumped at the opportunity. Not only did I love Marquis’ work and thought it would be cool to be a part of this project, but I knew that doing this would help me tap back into a part of myself that I’d been disconnected from for a very long time. Turns out my intuition was right.

Download Soul Sign by Marquis Hill.

Trumpeter, Composer and Producer, Marquis Hill releases a 12 track cosmic musical journey through the zodiacs in the form of a spoken word infused beat tape.

“ A yearning to learn more about the Zodiac - types and celestial influence for The Good - I’ve been inspired toward a fresh project. In its place, this extended spiritual knowledge of self is crucial in our lifetime. Collaborating with astrologers Mecca Woods and Boro the Lucky Libra - both hailing from the Bronx - we developed tracks that musically impressionize each Zodiac sign.

Here, jazz, spoken word and hip hop orbits and dances together. Each track is quite different, consistent with the often vast differences among the Zodiac signs and their types. Recorded during quarantine life, in Boston, NYC, and Chicago, this project underscores resilient elementals, energies in terms of fire, water, air, and earth”

Mars In Pisces 2020: Protect Your Immunity!

I just saw the news that Italy decided to end their lock-down today and between their re-opening chart (I used a 12AM chart based in Rome, Italy as I’m not exactly sure of the official re-opening time - I also took a peek at a 7AM chart, which didn’t look too hot either) and the fact that Mars is entering Pisces next week - I have a feeling that the people of Italy (unfortunately) are going to be back on lock-down as another wave of COVID ravages the country.

Italy’s re-opening chart

Here in the United States, there’s been a lot of talk and a lot of protests in favor of re-opening the country and getting back to work and restarting the economy, and as my friend Janelle and I have said on the most recent episode on our Stars On Fire podcast, nobody should be looking to rush back outside anytime soon.

In Italy’s re-opening chart, the chart has a super early Capricorn ascendant, which suggests that the motivation for rushing back outside is economy (and government) driven - as indicated by Saturn and Mars being housed in the money zone of the chart. But planned events that take place with the Ascendant in the very early degrees of a zodiac sign (usually between 0-3 degrees) are often considered events that have a rushed or premature quality to them, which can delay or deny a favorable outcome.

I also don’t like the fact that Venus (socializing, social events and gatherings) and the Moon (the people of the country) in this chart are caught up in a T-square (a three-way battle) with Neptune in Pisces which in astrology is a placement that weakens the immune system and Pisces in particular is a sign associated with transmissible diseases as well as diseases that affect the lungs like pneumonia. Neptune being in Pisces and being in the 3rd House (the zone of close social interaction/contact) suggests illness by way of a communicable disease - like a virus. Venus is also under siege in this chart in the 6th House - the zone that has to do with health and well-being, and that Virgo Moon in the 9th House shows people wanting their freedom back, to work (Virgo) and play (Mercury rules Virgo and is in the 5th House in Taurus here). However, with Jupiter (big) and Pluto (death) in that 1st House of the chart and that Sun in Taurus in the 5th House, ruling that 8th House in the chart (the zone associated with death) - it seems this risky decision (the 5th house also rules gambling) - won’t come without its consequences.

I bring up Italy’s chart not to chastise them, but to point out that we are not ready to go back to our regularly scheduled program (p.s. Janelle and I also covered the US states that are looking to re-open soon, which you can also catch on the podcast linked above). With hot-blooded Mars, the planet associated with fevers, infections, rushed and overly-aggressive behavior, and of course, incredible speed, spending six weeks in Pisces (May 13-June 27) - a sign associated lung related illness, transmissible diseases, and weakened immunity - we need to extend lock down, not break it.

Keep in mind, that infections were at their worst during Pisces season (Feb 18-Mar 19) and while Mercury spent time Pisces (Feb 3 - Mar 4 and Mar 16 -April 11). Mars will be covering all that terrain that the Sun and Mercury covered a few weeks back when they were in Pisces. Mars will also be syncing up with Neptune in Pisces from June 10-14, which can also trigger a spike in infections.

We’ve already seen that many of the conservative (see also: authoritarian) governments around the globe like the one we have here in the US, don’t care about saving lives so much as they care about saving their bank accounts. That’s why we’re going to have to work at saving ourselves and each other. Mars being in Pisces is the perfect time for staying inside, catching up on the rest we need, and strengthening our spiritual energy, as well as doing acts of kindness for those in need.

PROTECT YA NECK. PROTECT EACH OTHER. PROTECT YOUR IMMUNITY.

May 11 2020 - Update: I forgot to add that Mercury In Gemini is also going to square Neptune from May 21-May 23 - more days that we should also use extra precaution.

Cocoa Butter and Pisces Season

Thoughts On the Moon and Why We're So Damn Anxious

Photo: Nicole Mason, Unsplash

This post is inspired by the pre- Lunar Eclipse jitters that I've been working to keep at bay all week. 

Around eclipse season, especially at a Lunar Eclipse (which is technically a Full Moon), it's not uncommon to feel extra anxious (or extra tired) as anything having to do with the moon always keys right into our adrenals. Full Moons in general have a long history of charging the atmosphere, which is why there tends to be more accidents and heated encounters during one, and they always bring things that have been in the dark to light (like secrets) or a situation to a head. A Lunar Eclipse is a doubly potent Full Moon and the moon by astrology standards, has rulership over feelings. All of the feelings.

With this Lunar Eclipse in Pisces (September 16th) coming in with a square (hard aspect) to fiery Mars in Sagittarius, this energy is only amplified. Note that the Sun in Virgo is also apart of this Full Moon/Eclipse and Virgo energy, when blocked or misdirected, can manifest as anxiety and nervous stomach issues as Virgo is connected to Mercury, the planet that's associated with the brain and central nervous system; as well as the intestines.

As if that weren't enough stimulation, I've also been tracking the moon's movement in connection to Uranus, the planet of sudden developments, radical changes, breakthroughs, and mass communication. Uranus has been hanging out now at around 23 degrees of Aries, which currently makes it the last planet that the moon has to communicate with before the moon moves into the next sign. So for example, let's say the moon is at 23 degrees of Capricorn, the next aspect or connection it will make is when it immediately enters Aquarius and links up with Jupiter which is currently at 0 degrees of Libra. (You can kind of think as the moon as being like a hand on a clock as it moves around.) 

By astrology's standards when you take a "soft" planet/celestial body like the moon and brush it up against a more electric planet like Uranus, especially in an in-your-face kind of sign like Aries, overstimulation and anxiety can definitely be side effects.  While other planets like the Sun, Mercury, Mars, and Venus will eventually "pass" Uranus; because Uranus moves so slow, we'll still have those intermittently intense periods of activity, and more than likely lack of sleep.

By now, some of you may be wondering why all the torture?  What could the universe be thinking, putting all this pressure on us? Well, I can tell you that this energy is not meant to be a form of punishment. We are all at a pivotal time where there are great changes taking place across the globe; most notably those grassroots driven changes happening in the United States (a Cancer sun nation - influenced by the moon); and change is necessary to positive evolution and growth.

Though the moon can spark change (it changes signs every 2.5 days; Cancers are labeled as moody), it can sometimes be afraid of change, because change feels like a loss of security. However, I strongly believe that one of the biggest lessons/messages of the moment for us is learning how to better tap into the power of the moon. The moon provides us with feeling and intuition, and the time has long come that we begin listening to both. The moon as a divninely feminine energy demands it. We are watching the days disappear where we are expected to work through the pain, to grit and grin our teeth and bear it...to "man up". Our bodies, our feelings are asking that we listen to them, honor their value. We need to sleep when our body calls for it, eat what will make it feel good, take time to regularly unplug, seek out therapy and healing, give ourselves space to cry and get angry, and give ourselves space to love. This is how true change happens, when we find the right outlet to direct the energy, our energy. It's time to go with the flow.

What To Do When You Don't Identify With Your Zodiac Sign

Photo: Getty Images Stock

Recently, I shared an article on Facebook, which described the work ethic of each zodiac sign. One of my Facebook friends commented on the post that "I'm always confused when I read Libra descriptions though because I don't seem to fit the bill.” I responded to her comment by asking if she had ever had her birth chart done. She said she hadn’t, which I of course figured out was the case, but it was my gentle way of informing her that astrology is a bit deeper than the pop culture or Sun sign astrology that we usually come across in newspapers and magazines. Not that there’s anything wrong with Sun sign astrology, as it is the Sun that symbolizes the core of who we are, our style of self-expression, when it comes to astrological interpretation. In fact, astrologer Jessica Adams wrote a really good piece a while back about the importance of Sun sign astrology and how folks (mainly professional astrologers) need to stop looking down on it. Here's the link if interested: http://www.astro.com/astrology/aa_article141231_e.htm

But I digress.

While I know that my Facebook friend meant no offense with her comment (and no offense was taken) it did make me think about the many other occasions when I’ve seen people post or speak about how astrology doesn’t resonate with them because they can’t relate to the traits assigned to their Sun sign or the horoscopes that they come across in popular media. Now while I’m no astrology fundamentalist (I recognize and respect that it’s not everyone’s cup of tea), I do suggest that people do a little research with it before they decide to write astrology off entirely. That said, here’s a couple of suggestions on what to do when your zodiac sign doesn’t ring true for you:

1.  Read more than one horoscope. There are tons of astrologers out there who write horoscopes; some for mainstream publication, some for their own website or following, which means there are a variety of styles, voices, and content to choose from for keeping current with the cosmos. I often recommend to astrology beginners to pick 2-3 astrologers they really dig and make a habit out of reading their forecasts. Sometimes you need to have options in order to find something that resonates with you.

2.   Look up your birth chart. A birth chart is kind of like having your own cosmic map or blueprint. If you know the hour and location of your birth, you can go to a website like astro.com, where you can pull up your chart for free and take a look around. If you’re feeling really brave, you can Google around a bit to try to interpret it first all on your own. However, no advice really compares to my last point:

3.    Get a reading. This tip is probably the most important advice that I can give you as even a horoscope won’t be able to go into full detail with you about your birth chart. In a reading, a reputable astrologer would not only show you, for example, that you’re an Aries Sun, Cancer Moon, and Taurus Rising, but they would also show you how these three pieces (and more) work together to fuel your greatness and how they can sometimes trip you up.

So, that’s it. That’s my approach. It’s actually the path I took before I became a professional astrologer. Try it out and let me know how it goes. And of course, if you ever need a reading, get atcha girl.

The March 2016 Eclipses: Whatever You Do, Keep Moving

Ok, so the big news for this month are the eclipses. For those of you who may be unsure of what eclipses mean, think of them as really, really, really important (super, even) New and Full Moons. Except, the difference between an eclipse and a regular New or Full Moon is that eclipses tend to bring sharp and fast changes that can often feel like a crisis or emotional upheaval of sorts, and unlike a regular New or Full Moon, eclipse energy lasts for a full six months.

The eclipses of this month: one on March 8th in Pisces (Solar) and the other on March 23rd in Libra (Lunar) pick up where the Virgo and Aries eclipses of September 2015 left off. Eclipses come in pairs and wil set off a chain of events (or at the very least heighten our attention) in two very connected areas of our lives; for example: career and family. The purpose of eclipses is to keep us moving, keep us growing, and to help us with a shot of tough love to let go of anything holding us back.  People often report feeling the effects of an eclipse (myself included) up to a week or so before it actually happens. Since eclipses have to do with the very emotional energy of the Moon, I usually advise people to get all the rest, nourishment, and comfort they can get around this time. Eclipses can be tough on the body and spirit. But when that medicine they deliver kicks in, we become all the more better for it.

Eclipses in Pisces tend to highlight what we need to release and heal, when we need to listen to intuition, engage compassion, and dream big. Solar Eclipses spark beginnings and fresh starts. Those of us with planets or angles (look to your birth chart) near 18-22 degrees of Virgo, Sagittarius, Gemini, or Pisces will be most strongly affected.

Eclipses in Libra tend to highlight where we need to be more diplomatic, gracious, and balanced in our relationships. Lunar Eclipses signal endings and culminations. Those of us with planets or angles near 2-6 degrees of Aries, Libra, Cancer, or Capricorn will be most affected. Incidentally, this eclipse will be the final eclipse of the Aries-Libra pairing which began back in October 2013, and took place again in April 2014, October 2014, March 2015 and September 2015. Think back to see what epiphanies or actions may have been triggered at that time. This is eclipse will be the final chapter of the story.

Still, the eclipses won't be the only things happening this month. Read my March horoscopes (coming soon!) to find out what else to expect.

Mercury In Pisces: The Shaman & The Mystic

Artwork: Anto Machado

The world slows down a bit as Mercury enters Pisces today (March 5th). Over the next couple of weeks, the Universe encourages us to allow dreams, intuition, and compassion influence our thoughts and messages.

Note: there's a waning square between Mercury and Mars as Mars enters Sagittarius that will last another day or so before Venus joins the fracas (more on that later) between the mutable signs (Pisces, Virgo, and Sagittarius) on the 12th. A rule of thumb: Intuit first, then speak/act. Don't go for the BS.

Mars In Sagittarius in 2016

Photo: footloosenomad.com

Mars enters expansive and adventurous Sagittarius (March 5th) to make an extended stay from now until September (taking a brief dip back into Scorpio from April to July). Under this influence we're passionately motivated by distant travels, international causes, the bigger picture, heated debates, the mission for truth and justice and of course, good old fashioned debauchery. Though with Jupiter in Virgo (details), Saturn in Sagittarius (responsibility), and Neptune in Pisces (intuition) flanking Mars, we'll need to have a clear aim/strategy before taking off for territory unknown.

Full Moon in Pisces: Dream A Little Dream

"Emerald" by Pamelinas Studio

Happy Full Moon-- excuse me, SUPERMOON in Pisces!  Under this super dreamy, watery moon we're called to sit still and FEEL into our needs and desires. Our hearts have been speaking to us for a while, but the mental/outside chatter may have been too loud. This is the time to listen, so the heart may be heard. Pay attention to your dreams.

On a slightly different note, there is a lot of Neptune haze in the atmosphere today and the next few days. While it will be important for us to feel our feelings to tap into the magic that surrounds us, we must be careful not to avoid the truth or waste time with what can never be. In other words, this moon can help us to cut through and release the bullshit if we want it to.

Venus in Pisces: What's Your Potion?

Venus, our planetary Goddess of love and wealth, makes her way into Pisces today, where she'll eventually sync up with Neptune, then Mars. But not before having a face-off with Saturn in Sagittarius on January 29th. If we've been fooling ourselves in our relationships; playing too many rounds of victim-savior, or mistaking poverty for piety, Saturn will come along to deliver some hard, but necessary, truth. 

Yet, for those of us who have been erring too far on the side of the cynic, the stoic, the guarded, the critic, the pragmatic-because-it's-safe-side, this deep and dreamy union of Venus, Mars, and Neptune will be a reminder. A planetary potion of sorts to remind us of how it FEELS to be in love, to soul mate, to stand emotionally naked in front of another in our truth. 

  Drink up.

Mars In Pisces: Soldier of Love

Warrior planet, Mars, moves to soft and soulful Pisces today, where he'll stay until February 19th. What happens when you combine the God of War with the Messenger of Peace? Active compassion. Fierce fantasy. Creative courage. 

However, since Mars is also the planet of action and ambition, beware of passive aggression, lack of follow-through, or executing plans with no real aim. This is especially important as Mercury prepares to do his backward spin later this month. 

If love is your campaign, you'll win. Especially if you act on intuition.