Celtic Selky's Aromatherapy & Astrology

Happy 1/1/11!

2011-01-01T19:10:00.003-05:00

Happy New Year!

You know, I just have a good feeling about 2011. And Jupiter is the reason why. The planet getting most attention in 2011 is the great benefic Jupiter, with a conjunction to Uranus, opposition to Saturn, sextile to Neptune, and a square plus trines to Pluto. So the major themes will be about growth, both material and spiritual. Jupiter also represents religion and philosophy, so humanitarian and social issues should be prominent. For more details about Jupiter in 2011, please check out this article: Astrology Predictions For 2011

Interestingly enough, I just had a granddaughter born, and she is a double Sag with a Taurus ASC, just like her daddy, my son. Jupiter is the ruling planet for Saggitarius. Jupiter is the great benefic...and Sag's are known to be lucky...double Sag's are twice as lucky! Lucky girl, lucky son...and lucky me! :D

Winter Solstice & Lunar Eclipse on 12/21/10

2010-12-19T20:49:00.003-05:00

Wow! First time in 456 years! Big time transformations are coming, but not until all the darkness (longest night of the year...moon dark also with the eclipse) is dealt with. Think of pimple or an abcess that needs to come to a head to allow the infection to be expressed out...and allow the healing to begin. With the Sun conjunct Pluto & Mars in Capricorn (alot of intense, transformational energy there)...and these planets are in Capricorn, known for responsibility and duty...expect unpleasant realities to be revealed. But it is for the best, because you can't resolve any problem unless you understand what the problem is.

The Sun/Pluto/Mars conjunction is in opposition to the emotional Moon in Cancer (the sign it rules) and is square Saturn in Libra. This forms a closed aspect called a T-square; and these 'negative' energies are all in Cardnial signs...so there will be an intense impetus for this transformation...but it won't be painless. But it will be necessary and for the best.

Big changes in the New Year, no doubt!

BTW...if you want more info on the Winter Solstice/Cusp of Capricorn, please see my prior post:

December 21st...Winter Solstice/Cusp of Capricorn

Happy Birthday Scorpio!

2010-10-23T17:52:00.003-04:00

You might want to review my post from last year on details about Scorpio...

There is much energy with this cusp, coming right after the full moon...and with the Chiron/Neptune conjuction in Aquarius square Mars in Scorpio...be careful of painful battles that wound your spirit...better to use that energy to dig deep within yourself to bring to light what spiritual lessons you need to learn and share with others...after all, Scorpio is the sign of transformation.

Happy Autumn Equinox!

2010-09-22T20:46:00.002-04:00

You might want to see my post from last year:

Happy Birthday Libras!

And we have the Harvest full moon in Aries tomorrow...for more info on this, please click on this link

Let's talk about Ginger...

2010-09-16T17:17:00.004-04:00

Familiar name : Ginger
Latin name : Zingiber officinale
Sanskrit name :Andraka (fresh); Sunthi (dry)

Known in Ayurveda as the universal remedy, ginger has been honored around the world and across time for its unique culinary and medicinal properties. From Confucius to Marco Polo to the Indian King Akbar, those who experienced the unique pungent flavor of ginger praised this powerful natural agent. Healers of Medieval times traced the origins of ginger to the Garden of Eden, while on the Indian subcontinent, references to this king of spices are found in the earliest myths. Known for its concentrated heating potency, ginger has been used across Asia and Africa to kindle the body’s internal fire. This is a strong, sweet spicy scent, and the essential oil is wonderfully soothing for aching joints and muscles, or an upset tummy. Ginger’s heat can be irritating, so be sure to dilute Ginger essential oil extremely well – “a little dab will do ya.” To ease an upset stomach, you can place one teenie-tiny drop of ginger oil, mixed into a tablespoon of honey in a large mug. Fill with hot water, stir, and drink. Instant Ginger Tea!

The Science of Ginger

Ginger is best known for its effects on the digestive system. When taken internally, it stimulates the release of salivary enzymes and enhances stomach emptying. As a result of these effects, ginger has been used successfully to treat nausea and vomiting in a number of conditions.

One of the most promising uses of ginger is in the treatment of morning sickness associated with pregnancy. Because of risks to the fetus, most drugs are diligently avoided during pregnancy. Ginger root seems to offer a safe and effective option. Studies form Denmark found that almost three out of four pregnant women experienced some relief from their nausea without any limiting side effects. The German Commission E has suggested that ginger be avoided in pregnancy due to theoretical concerns, although no cases of ginger toxicity have yet been reported. Considering its widespread usage without documented problems, ginger seems to be an acceptable anti-nausea substance when taken in normal doses. Use only natural fresh ginger root to gain maximal benefit with minimal risk.

Another potential use for ginger is in the treatment of nausea associated with cancer chemotherapy. In a recent animal study from India, ginger helped to stimulate the stomach to empty after a potent chemotherapy drug, cisplatin, was given. Although there are many new effective anti-nausea drugs available to treat the side effects of cancer therapies, they are generally very expensive and carry side effects. In this study, ginger was found to be as effective as the most commonly used drug.

Ginger also has potentially beneficial effects on circulation. Animal studies suggest that ginger may help lower cholesterol levels and reduce the stickiness of platelets. A benefit that has been noted for thousands of years is ginger’s ability to improve circulation. Both Chinese and Indian physicians prescribed ginger for people troubled by cold hands and feet.

Its pungent properties are also used to treat respiratory and circulatory problems. For people with cold hands and feet, drinking ginger tea or chewing on fresh or candied ginger can bring heat into the system. If you are feeling the onset of a cold, chew on fresh gingerroot to help clear your congested nasal passages.
If you are traveling on a boat or anticipate a turbulent plane ride, keep a piece of fresh ginger with you and nibble on it when your stomach feels queasy. If you are pregnant and experiencing morning sickness, chewing on a small piece of ginger may settle your delicate stomach.

Ginger can be an aphrodisiac and has been used by some to treat male impotence. (Please diffuse the essential oil in the air for that - I do NOT recommend a ”special” Ginger massage oil in any dilution for your man’s “problem” – trust me on this one!)

According to Gabriel Mojay, in his book, Aromatherapy for Healing the Spirit, (Holt, 1996); “Ginger oil’s ability to strengthen the yang-energy of the Kidneys makes it helpful for relieving lower backache, mainly when associated with muscular fatigue. According to Oriental medicine, it is Ginger’s tonifying effect on the Kidneys which accounts, in addition, for its action as a sexual tonic.”

And, “Traditionally associated with the astrological planet Mars – a symbol of force and virility – this dynamic, fiery essence activates will-power, stimulates initiative, and restores determination….Ginger oil is therefore indicated for those who may have clear plans and good intentions, but who lack the personal drive and optimism to manifest initiative and restores determination.”

Ginger blends well with the citrus oils, and the woods or resins. If you love the spice oils - you must try this!

Long time - new post

2010-09-07T15:35:00.002-04:00

Wow - I didn't realize how long it's been since I posted on my blog...wow! Time sure flies when you are busy with family...

Anyhoo - I think it is the energies of the new Virgo moon inspiring me to get back to posting....yep, detail-orientated Virgo moon getting me to start anew... :D

Full moon in Scorpio - Pink Moon

2010-04-28T10:00:00.002-04:00

Full Pink Moon – April

This name came from the herb moss pink, or wild ground phlox, which is one of the earliest widespread flowers of the spring. Other names for this month’s celestial body include the Full Sprouting Grass Moon, the Egg Moon, and among coastal tribes the Full Fish Moon, because this was the time that the shad swam upstream to spawn.

Since this full moon is in Scorpio, the energies from this full moon will uncover things like denial, abuse of power and exposing secrets that lie in shadow.

Scorpio's psychic-emotional power is both feared and respected. It's a sign of healing, but in the Plutonian sense. The kind that means facing demons, walking through fear and taking a good hard look at what's going on. This realist sees the good, bad and the ugly, and never lives in la la land. That makes this full Moon a potential time to heal deep wounds in the soul, or move away from unhealthy fixations that bog down your energy. Scorpio's radar can hone in on the undercurrents of situations or relationship. It's a rich time for insights that guide you away from extremes, addictions, obsessions, etc, and toward more stability.

Happy Birthday Taurus!

2010-04-20T09:23:00.003-04:00

And today is my solar return! Whoohoo! Looks like MY focus for this year will be in the 10th house; the house of career & public recognition. This solar return is still in the yod with Saturn in Virgo as the focal point...and sextile Neptune/Chiron conjunction in Aquarus....I will have exciting distractions that I will have to contend with while keeping my focus on what work I need to get done.

As always for me...sigh.

Back to Taurus...

Keywords: Stubborn, Stable, Cautious, Comfort-seeker, Deliberate, Slow

As the second sign of the zodiac, Taurus represents the second stage in the evolution of man and his place in the universe. The first thing man uses are his physical senses. What he can see, touch, and physically hold represents the reality of his position. It is why the celestial heritage of Taureans is to conserve physical resources and possessively cling to people whom they regard as their own. Their strongest desire is for personal security. Broken promises or the betrayal of others are threats to this security. Their reaction to such personal affronts is likely to be bitter, and those who inflict such abuses will not be given another chance. Disappointed Taureans can behave in a manner totally against their own best interests. They may completely retreat from the world, or, go in the opposite direction and become promiscuous. Whatever direction is taken, they may end up sacrificing the meaningful, enduring relationships they really need to feel emotionally secure.

Taureans are stubborn and impervious to changes not of their own making. However, they are able to accomplish things in life because of their tenacity in sticking to projects in which others may have long since lost patience or stamina. The astrological symbol for Taurus is the Bull and indeed, the stubborn bullheaded nature of the Taurean personality can be extremely formidable to those who have the unfortunate experience of coming up against it. On the positive side, their quiet strength and determination inspires others to trust them. Because they dislike being unable to rely on others, they are usually very dependable themselves. Taureans are loving and patient when trying to accomplish what they think is worthwhile and when dealing with people they care about. As a rule, they do not enjoy surprises or spontaneous changes. They are far more comfortable when given sufficient time to prepare for things and allowed to follow their planned agenda.

Taureans react to what they experience by assessing its possible worth. That is, before they take physical action, before they sort out their emotional involvement, and before they reason it out intellectually, they ascertain what tangible advantages are to be gained from the experience. What appears too abstract or vague fails to attract more than their passing interest. They need a definite purpose in what they do and in relationships they form. Because they don't want to be unnecessarily burdened, they willingly rid themselves of worn out items, but only if they cannot find any other way to make use of them.

Venus, planet of beauty and pleasure, rules Taurus, which means that by nature, people born with Sun in Taurus are tactile and sensuous, seekers of personal comfort and physical pleasure. By design however, they are pragmatic with an appreciative eye for both monetary value as well as aesthetic beauty. They are lovers of nature and natural things. Their harmony in life is tied to reality and the material world, but sometimes they get carried away with personal acquisitions. When they go too far afield they tend to either accumulate wealth and never use it, or recklessly squander it without improving the quality or enjoyment of their lives. As a result of their addiction to personal pleasure and comfort, Taureans can be very lazy as well as very vulnerable to the unpleasant consequences that invariably result from overindulging in rich food and other physical pleasures. Their natural cautiousness saves them from making mistakes, but it can also prevent them from taking advantage of valuable opportunities.

As a rule, Taureans are physically strong and solidly built. Even those who are not fat, may be physically more dense per pound of body weight. Many of them favor weight lifting or other body-building routines as a way to keep in shape. They enjoy participating in sports that require strength and endurance. They usually like to putter around the garden, and readily engage in other outdoor activities such as picnics, hikes, and trips to botanical gardens or a zoo. They love music and art and may have considerable talent in these areas. They often have a pleasant speaking or singing voice. Though Taureans tend to be rather subdued, they have a lively sense of humor, and enjoy socializing.

Taurus colors are brown, russet, and turquoise. Vulnerable parts of the body are the neck, throat, shoulders, and upper torso. Stiff necks, sore throats, and earaches are common Taurean complaints. The emerald, a variety of the mineral beryl and as costly as a diamond, is the Taurus birthstone. The emerald's rich green color is suitably Taurean since it is the color of money, green pastures, and serenity. The emerald has a six-sided geometric form. Six is the number assigned to Venus which in turn, is the planetary ruler of Taurus. Flowers for Taurus are the rose (red), daisy, lily, and daffodil.

Steadfast, sensual Taurus is supported through Rose essential oil. Rosa Centifola, Damascena and Gallica, ruled by Venus, are favored for scent, beauty, and especially their aphrodisiac qualities. Mythically, the rose is purported to have sprung from the blood of Adonis, while in Turkish lore it represents the blood of Venus herself-the Taurean ruler. Also, its trifold qualities soothe the vascular, digestive and nervous systems. Rose is very soothing to those suffering from heart-ache as well. Rose eases over-indulgence in food and spirits. This gentle oil benefits the skin and was favored highly by the Queen of the Nile, Cleopatra. Rose essential oil and rosewater are both healing to dehydrated and inflamed skin.

Ah...Jasmine...King of the Flowers!

2010-04-18T13:06:00.006-04:00

One of the most intoxicating smells I know of is Jasmine...I love to stop and sniff the night air when it's rich, warm & sweet scent envelopes me. No wonder...Jasmine's scent is a valuable remedy in cases of severe depression and soothes the nerves, producing a feeling of confidence, optimism and euphoria, while revitalizing and restoring energy. Who can resist that?

Jasmine is an evergreen, climbing shrub that can grow up to 10 meters (33 feet) high and has dark green leaves and small white or yellow star-shaped flowers, which are picked at night, when the aroma is most intense. There are over 300 species of jasmine.

An experienced picker can pick 10,000-15,000 blossoms per night, which is important, because you will need 1,000 lbs of flowers to yield approximately one pound of liquid concrete, which yields 0.2% aromatic molecules. Jasmine oil starts it journey as a 'concrete', which is made by solvent extraction, after which an 'absolute' is obtained from the concrete, by separation with alcohol. The essential oil is then produced off the absolute by steam distillation.

Originally from China and Northern India, it was brought to Spain by the Moors, who also gave it the name Jasmine: derived from the Persian word 'yasmin'. Jasmine tea is a Chinese favorite (but Jasminum sambac - Arabian jasmine - is normally used for this). Incidentally, Jasminum sambac IS my favorite of all the jasmines as it has a richer, and more exotic scent..it truely deserves it's name: the "King of Flowers". I usually apply a 3% dilution of Jasminum sambac on my pulse points...and try not not spend all day sniffing my wrists! ;-)

What makes up this intoxicating scent? Well, there are well over 100 constituents found in jasmine oil, but the main chemical components are benzyl acetate, linalool, benzyl alcohol, indole, benzyl benzoate, cis-jasmone, geraniol, methyl anthranilate and trace amounts of p. cresol, farnesol, cis-3-hexenyl benzoate, eugenol, nerol, ceosol, benzoic acid, benzaldehyde, y-terpineol, nerolidol, isohytol, phytol etc.

The comforting sweetness of Jasmine makes it a valuable remedy in cases of severe depression. Because of its deeply soothing and calming nature, jasmine oil helps with sexual problems such as frigidity and impotence; it is renowned for being an aphrodisiac & sexual tonic.

Jasmine oil also facilitates delivery in childbirth: it hastens the birth by strengthening the contractions and at the same time relieves pain. It is effective in post-natal depression and promotes the flow of breast milk. It is also often used in skin care, especially in the treatment of dry or aggravated skin.

Happy Birthday Aries!

2010-04-14T21:12:00.002-04:00

Well, it IS still Aries...heh! :D

As the first sign of the zodiac, Aries represents the first stage in the evolution of man and his place in the universe. The raw energy of life itself, which is the first step in being part of the universe, is evident in the character and make-up of Aries people. Babies think of themselves as the center of everyone else's universe. As they grow older, they learn that they are not the center but part of a family group. It is the karmic responsibility of the Aries-born to accept the idea that they are not the center of the universe but part of the larger social order of all men. Aries personalities who do not develop this kind of maturity are demanding and infantile in their behavior. They want what they want, when they want it. The vital life force that is their celestial heritage can either be used to inspire others as well as themselves, or it can be turned inward to reflect only their own selfish needs, and as a result, they fail to evolve as individuals.

Aries people are doers. They set out to accomplish things and are determined to succeed one way or another. The astrological symbol for Aries is the Ram and, considering the sheer force of energy and enthusiasm by which they accomplish their goals, it is not off the mark to suggest that they "ram" their way to success. They must, however, learn the difference between being confidently aggressive--a responsible "take-charge person" on whom others rely to get things moving-- and being rudely aggressive-- a "know-it-all" who is insensitive to the feelings as well as the wisdom of others.

Aries individuals react in a physical way to everything they experience in life. That is, before they assess the practicality or worth of what they are doing, before they sort out their true emotions, and, before they take time to reason things out intellectually, their tendency is to shoot first and ask questions later. Their passionate nature is inspiring and flattering to others, but unless impatience and rash behavior are curbed, their unbridled enthusiasm backfires when they lose interest just as quickly as they gained it. Theirs is the astrological sign of the soldier but in their haste, they forget the practicality of being adequately armed before rushing headlong into physical or verbal combat. They quickly forget frustration and anger. Since theirs is essentially a generous nature, their selfishness is usually a result of carelessness rather than intentional unkindness.

Active, fiery Mars rules Aries and indeed, Aries people are high-spirited, energetic individuals ready to try anything at least once. Courageous, optimistic, and friendly, they are lively participants in the everyday bustle of life, maintaining a frantic pace others find difficult to match. Constant physical activity works off excess energy, and its vitalizing influence is important to their intellectual and creative endeavors. It is usually the energetic Aries who is willing to start projects others would be afraid to tackle. However, it is also Aries who often fails to finish things when too many details demand attention or they simply lose interest. In spite of the physical energy associated with Aries, they are not above using the inability of others to keep up with them as an excuse for their own idleness. If they expect others to provide them with constant stimulation and are unwilling to find their own diversions, they become lazy. Cut off from physical activity, they become depressed, unproductive, and overweight.

They are eager athletes and generous players. They enjoy the challenge of a tough contest, but they can be so stimulated that they become too aggressive. Aries rules guns and weapons, so it isn't surprising that many Aries individuals enjoy hunting. Combative by nature, they also enjoy boxing, wrestling, and most team sports. They are apt to be mechanically inclined and adept at arts and crafts, typing, working with machinery, playing musical instruments, or performing magic tricks. They have a tendency to allow their enthusiasm to exceed their actual ability. Before taking something apart, they don't stop to wonder if they can put it back together.

Aries colors are red and white. Vulnerable parts of the body are the head and face. As a sign of this celestial association, many Aries individuals are born with a birth mark on their head or face. Headaches, black eyes, nose bleeds, and insect bites are common Aries complaints. The birthstone for Aries is the diamond. The tremendous heat and pressure that nature exerts in turning carbon into hard, brilliant diamonds represent the strength and physical force in the Aries-born. Flowers for Aries include the poppy (red), geraniums, honeysuckle, and hollyhocks.

Fiery, initiating Aries is supported through Rosemary essential oil. Rosmarinus Officinalis is a perennial ruled by the Sun. A wonderful nerve/circulation stimulant, it's known to improve confidence and perception, and to enhance memory-hence, the Shakespearean quote "and rosemary for remembrance." Easily cultivated in a sunny climate, it may be used for a splendid hair rinse and facial toner - for Aries rules the head and scalp.

Happy Birthday Pisces (belated)

2010-04-14T21:05:00.003-04:00

Sorry, but I've been busy and out of town and such...and so this post is delayed...mea culpa.

As the twelfth sign of the zodiac, Pisces represents the twelfth and final stage in the evolution of man and his place in the universe. Here, the desire is to use all that has been learned and assimilated in order to gain perfection; of man as an individual and humanity as a whole. This perfection leads man to his rightful place in the universe. Though not all Pisceans occupy their time with such lofty aspirations as attaining their rightful place in the universe, the notion of perfection is a strong factor in their personality. They find it difficult to deal with people and situations that do not live up to their idealized images. It isn't that they can't see things clearly, they just don't want to accept things as they really are. Seeking greater perfection than the real world is capable of producing, they often turn to religion or other spiritual and philosophical disciplines.

Pisceans readily adapt to change. This trait is a strength because it is a survival mechanism, and a weakness because it makes them vulnerable to the demands and influence of other people. In spite of their sensitive personality and delicate physical constitutions, most Pisceans are survivors. Their adaptability allows them to outlast those who may be much stronger. Because they so readily identify with the feelings of others, and willingly adapt themselves to different people and changing circumstances, they risk the exploitation or loss of their own needs, ideas, and talent. The opposite side of the coin is that adaptability also allows Pisceans to gain personal power over those they understand so well and turn it to their own advantage. The fish is the astrological symbol for Pisces. The fish is pictured as a double figure seen to swim in either direction. This represents the ultimate Piscean choice; either to be strong and overcome weakness inherent in their sensitive nature, or to become the victim of this acute vulnerability.

Pisceans react emotionally to everything they experience in life. Before they take physical action, before they sort out the practicality of what they are doing, and before they reason things out intellectually, they give in to their feelings. Compassionate and fair-minded, they are not at all afraid to bend unbreakable rules if the situation demands a more humane approach. They make excellent judges, sensitive administrators, and inspirational teachers. Their surplus of emotions implies an addictive nature, and thus it is necessary to avoid habit-forming drugs and other substances. To maintain their emotional equilibrium, they need a private spot or at least a private time for daily retreat and relaxation. The most creatively stimulating and soothing environment for Pisceans is near water, preferably the ocean.

The modern ruler of Pisces is Neptune, planet of the spiritual and sensitive qualities in man. Ancient astrologers assigned Pisces Jupiter, a planet also associated with spirituality as well as thirst for knowledge and understanding. These planets represent similar traits and both of them influence Piscean personalities. They are idealistic, sensitive, and love to play martyr. They are often shy and would much rather impersonate someone else than be themselves. That's why so many are actors, artists, writers, and dreamers. Their association with elusive Neptune makes it hard to predict how Pisceans will develop. Some of them are neat and well organized, while others become slovenly and careless. Personal habits are often a direct reflection of emotional reactions to their environment. Their imaginations are limitless, an ability that makes them successful writers of fiction or turns them into pathological liars. Unique ability to understand the abstract can make them gifted mathematicians and theorists, or it can put them so out of touch with reality that they make no sense at all.

As if to directly confront their own vulnerability, many Pisceans are daredevils and risk-takers, becoming race car drivers, aviators, explorers, and hunters. Their emotional nature can make them compulsive eaters who face a lifelong battle of the bulge. Sports and physical fitness routines are a good way for them to keep in shape as well as reduce their emotional stress. Horseback riding, dancing, skating, swimming or sailing are favored activities.

Piscean colors are pale green, purple, rose, and gray-blue. Vulnerable parts of the body are the feet and lymphatic system. Swelling, allergic reaction to drugs, and sore feet are common complaints, but their emotional nature can also make them vulnerable to psychosomatic illness. The Piscean birthstone is the aquamarine. The sea-colored aquamarine becomes invisible when submerged in water. This is an appropriate representation of the shy Pisceans who often wish they could disappear as easily. Flowers for Pisces are the orchid, lilac, wisteria, water lily (lotus), poppy (white), and pansy.

Intuitive, sensitive Pisces is supported by Jasmine essential oil, Jasminum Officinalis, ruled by the water element. Its rich, exotic scent's classification is debated (showing Piscean duality) but the transcendental aromatic effect is not. In China, Jasmine's scent is considered feminine. It is known to assist with childbirth, and it balances the reproductive system. Treasured as an aphrodisiac, Jasmine's renowned gentling ability helps to dissolve indifference and favorably influences Piscean dream states.

New moon - 24 degrees in Aries

2010-04-14T20:39:00.003-04:00

Ah...new moon in Aries! Get off your duff and get started on that dream you always had...there is no better time then NOW! Just do it! :D

Looked up the Sabian symbol for today's new moon degree and it is:

An open window and a net curtain blowing into the shape of a cornucopia

What an interesting mental picture...you can feel the fresh breeze and playful energy...and the promise of a cornucopia...how fun!

Happy Birthday Aquarius!

2010-01-19T11:02:00.003-05:00

The ingress (entry) of the Sun into Aquarius marks a time in which themes like freedom, independence and humanitarian issues are in the air. This is also the time of carnevals all around the world. When you think of Aquarius, these words spring to mind: stubborn, societal, forward-thinking, opinionated, unconventional, musical, and rebellious.

As the eleventh sign of the zodiac, Aquarius represents the eleventh stage in the evolution of man and his place in the universe. In Aquarius, the individuality of man so carefully nurtured in Leo, now becomes part of the greater spectrum of society as a whole. Capricorn sets up the structure and rules of society, and Aquarius takes on the role of making the organizations of society function as the people-oriented institutions they were intended to be. Aquarians are the original "organization men" of the zodiac. Their societal orientation, loyalty, fairness, and objective nature are reasons why they tend to attract many friends and acquaintances in life. Though they are not above wanting to live well, many Aquarians are more interested in people than they are in amassing great wealth or taking on the responsibilities that invariably accompany such a life style. When they cannot afford some luxury, they rationalize why they didn't need it in the first place.

Aquarians are stubborn and resist changing their opinions or accepting new ideas that they do not like or with which they do not agree. Big changes in life are accepted as a challenge, but small changes that throw off their plans are not tolerated very well. The astrological symbol for Aquarius is the figure of a man pouring water. The water is seen as mankind's collective consciousness. It depicts Aquarians as disseminators of the spirit of humanity. Many Aquarians, in tune with their celestial heritage, are idealists who champion the highest principles to which humanity can aspire. However they are also extremely independent thinkers. When confronted with authoritarian demands or dogmatic principles to which they do not subscribe, they rebel. They may hesitate to take the initiative at times, but once they decide a situation or idea is worthwhile, they become involved and aggressive in pushing it forward. They don't mind being asked to do something but they resent being told to do it. Those who want to gain their favor will help share the work load without being asked.

Aquarians react to everything they experience in life with an intellectual orientation. Before they take physical action, before they assess the practical worth of something, and before they sort out their true emotions, they try to visualize it objectively as a kind of mental exercise. In relationships, their intellectual approach makes them appear interested but not particularly passionate or possessive. It does not necessarily mean they really lack passion. When they do focus their feelings, their passion can be as intense as it is inspirational.

The modern ruler of Aquarius is Uranus, planet of the unorthodox and eclectic mentality of mankind. The ancient ruler of Aquarius is Saturn, planet of restriction and structure. Such different characteristics seem to directly contradict one another, but a close look at the Aquarian personality shows that both planets co-exist in a strangely compatible way. Aquarians demonstrate association with Uranus by being unpredictable. Saturn?s influence gives them stability. The two influences generally mean that when Aquarians suddenly change course, or do something unpredictable, they are not likely to be acting on a whim or a bet but for some very practical or advantageous reason. They favor the unique as well as the traditional. Sometimes they are either so involved with the past (history and antiques) or so tuned in to the future (spaceships and neon clothes) they lose track of the present. Exhibiting the stability of Saturn, they may live unvaried, even boring lives; feeling very comfortable and secure in such an unchanging, stable environment. Sooner or later however, they are apt to encounter circumstances that make it hard for them to know what they will be doing next. They often adopt life styles and ideas that are counter to current trends. The odd and unique fascinate them, and they are rarely caught off guard by abnormal situations and strange people.

Aquarians are good eaters but may not care what's on the menu. Most of them are indifferent cooks. As long as they can participate with a partner, or as part of a team they are enthusiastic about sports and, as a result, may not have trouble keeping physically fit. When left on their own however, they become lazy and reluctant to engage in what to them is a lonely series of exercises with which they quickly become bored. Broad jumping, camping, ballooning, tennis, swimming, racquetball, and baseball are some of their favorite activities. Science and engineering, international finance, writing, music, psychology or social work are areas of special interest to Aquarians.

Aquarian colors are silver, aqua, and purple and the more electric shades of pink and blue. Vulnerable parts of the body are the shins, ankles, and circulatory system. Cramps, allergies, sudden illness and freak accidents are common Aquarian complaints, though they may also suffer from various nervous disorders. The birthstone for Aquarius is amethyst. This gem is believed to confer stability and mental poise on those who wear it. Flowers for Aquarians are the more unusual blossoms and include the gladioli, tiger lily, trillium, bird of paradise, and jack-in-the-pulpit.

Idealistic, trend-setting Aquarius is supported by Eucalyptus essential oil, Eucalyptus Globulus, an anti-bacterial penetrating aromatic. Known for its pulmonary supportive ability, Eucalyptus inhibits the spread of infection by oxygenating the blood, reducing inflammation and increasing expectorant qualities of the body. Its scent combats fatigue and energizes multifaceted Aquarius.

Some info about Frankincense essential oil

2010-01-17T19:09:00.003-05:00

Since we just passed thru the Epithany, the celebration of the three astrologers (Magi) who brought gifts to the Christ-child, I thought I would have a couple of posts about two of their gifts.

Frankincense

Used for many thousands of years, the Frankincense tree has perhaps the greatest association with spiritual practice of any plant on earth. In most of the great ancient cultures,including the Egyptian, Babylonian, Persian, Hebrew, Greek and Roman civilizations, it has played a role in religious and domestic life. Frankincense has been sought after by kings and valued as highly as gold. More recently, the essential oil is gaining popularity with spiritual seekers and natural healers alike.

The Frankincense tree, or Olibanum, upon first glance, may seem rather unremarkable. It appears as a giant shrub, with many knurled branches topped with abundant slender leaves and occasionally, small white flowers. A native to northern Africa, it looks like it belongs in the desert, growing in some of the world's harshest conditions. But it is not the tree itself, but rather its sap that has such profound lore surrounding it. When the tree's bark is pierced with a knife (known traditionally as a 'Mingaf'), a milky-white oleoresin is exuded- thought the tree is not harmed. The resin forms droplets known as 'tears' or 'pearls', which harden into the orange-brown gum known itself as Frankincense. The English name of this natural incense is derived from the medieval French 'franc',meaning 'pure' or 'free', and from the Latin 'incensium', meaning 'to smoke'.

For more than 5000 years, the hardened resin has been burned in temples throughout Egypt, China and India; the Catholic church continues to use it today during Mass. It is one of the four main ingredients in Jewish ceremonial incense, forming an important part of the Sabbath day offerings. The smoke of Frankincense(as with other ritual incense) is thought to carry prayers to heaven upon it's smoke. It is also said to deepen the breath and still the mind, making it useful for meditation and yogic practice. The incense may have health benefits as well, producing a highly antiseptic smoke, keeping churches and churchgoers free from disease.

Modern natural medicine and aromatherapy have taken to the use of the essential oil of Frankincense. The oil, having a warm, woody, sweet aroma with a hint of citrus, is steam or CO2 distilled from the resin. It is used for respiratory conditions such as bronchitis, catarrh and asthma; for wrinkles, wounds and dry skin, and in cases of rheumatism, cystitis and leukorrea. I diffuse this oil combined with eucalyptus essential oil (20% Frankincense to 80% Eucalyptus)to aid with respiratory issues, especially asthma.

The most important effect of the essential oil may be on the nervous system. Regarded as an antidepressant,the aroma can both relax and revitalize, and can help in cases of nervous tension and exhaustion. Frankincense oil contains sesquiterpenes, which stimulate the limbic system, the hypothalamus, the pineal and the pituitary glands. The oil is now being researched for it's ability to increase human growth hormone production. Further,it is considered to strengthen the immune system, which may in-fact occur as a result of it's uplifting properties.

Per Ayruvedic medicine, Frankincense is known as:
Familiar name:Boswellia, Indian Olibanum, Salai Guggal
Latin name:Boswellia Serrata
Sanskrit name:Shallaki, Kunduru

Referenced in the earliest Ayruvedic texts, boswellia was traditionally used to treat respiratory ailments, disorders of the digestive system, and joint diseases. Pharmacological studies performed in early 1970's identified unique pain relieving, sedating, and anti-inflammatory properties in extracts of boswellia, including the treatment of asthma, arthritis, and inflammatory bowel diseases.

Boswellia can normalize menstrual irregularities and treat liver ailments. It has been used traditionally to treat both syphilis and gonorrhea. As a mouthwash, it can treat bad breath due to gum disease. If there is a common theme to the traditional role of boswellia, it is its purported efficacy in conditions of excessive inflammation.

According to Ayurveda, boswellia carries the astringent, bitter, and sweet tastes. It has a cooling effect on the physiology. It is most pacifying to Pitta and can also reduce Kapha. It is mildly aggravating to Vata in high doses.

New Moon in Capricorn

2010-01-15T09:54:00.004-05:00

With the new moon in Capricorn, this is an EXCELLENT time to start new habits...Capricorn is noted for discipline and focus on achieving your goals. The holiday season is over, time to start those New Year resolutions of diet and exercise...for real! :D

Now, when I think of this responsible Moon in Capricorn, the herb & essential oil that jumps to my mind is Sage - Salvia Officinalis, an evergreen perennial.

The transcendental qualities of Sage smoke-smudging have been revered in Native American ritual. Sage takes its name from the Latin root 'salvare' meaning 'to heal' or 'to save'. Among the Ancients and throughout the Middle Ages it was in high repute: Cur moriatur homo cui Salvia crescit in horto? (‘Why should a man die whilst sage grows in his garden?’) has a corresponding English proverb:

‘He that would live for aye,
Must eat Sage in May.’

It was considered a sacred herb by the Romans who used it both medicinally and in cooking. It was used in the Middle Ages by village 'wise women' (burnt at the stake for their practice of 'witchcraft') to help with child birth, menstruation and menopausal difficulties. It has also been used in many countries in folk medicine. Sage has a reputation to retard old age and restore energy. It helps in quickening the senses and memory, strengthening the sinews and restoring health to those suffering from palsies and trembling of limbs. It is considered very useful in failing memory. The herb acts on the cortex of the brain thereby eliminating memory exhaustion and improving concentration.

Sage is also known for its healing action on the throat and mouth. Gargles and mouthwashes use it as the principal ingredient. Leaves rubbed on the teeth regularly help to keep them sparkling white and strengthen the gums. To treat sore throat, half a liter of boiling water should be poured on a handful of sage leaves. When moderately cool a little vinegar and honey should be added. This mixture should be used as a gargle. While gargling, a teaspoon of this mixture can also be taken internally.

Finally, leafy sprigs of sage were among the strewing herbs spread on the floors of old manors, for it was believed to be an antiseptic to guard against plague and other infections.

Think tonight I'll fix some chicken seasoned with sage for dinner. :D

Happy Pongal!

2010-01-13T19:32:00.002-05:00

"May the pot of prosperity boil over
May the Pongal that we cook,
the fragrance of turmeric
the taste of sugarcane, ginger and honey
Bring the joy of Pongal into our homes
May the blessings of the Sun God flood our lives."

Pongal is the harvest festival of Tamil Nadu. On this day, people thank God for a bountiful harvest. They prepare a special dish called 'Sarkkarai Pongal' and pray for the blessings of Sun God. One of the most popular Tamil festivals, it is celebrated on January 14th every year, when it coincides with Makar Sankranti celebrations in entire North India, Lohri in Punjab, Bhogali Bihu in Assam and Bhogi in Andhra Pradesh. It is one of the very few Dravidian festivals that have survived the Indo-Aryan influences. Pongal also finds little reference in Puranas.

Falling just after the winter solstice and a bountiful harvest, Pongal marks the season of celebration and joyous activities and it is celebrated continuously for four days. On the first day, Bhogi Pongal, celebrations are confined to the house. Evil spirits are driven out of the home and burnt in bonfires, and the house is whitewashed. The second day, Surya Pongal, honors the Sun god. Members of the family wear new clothes and cook - on a new stove and in new pots - a dish with the newly harvested rice, jaggery and moong dal.

The third day is Maattu Pongal, honoring cattle. Cows and bullocks are washed, decorated and worshipped, for their role in ensuring a good harvest. Pongal also marks the beginning of a New Year and is the day to praise and thank God with full devotion, faith and sincerity of heart. The festival covers all living beings including humans, cattle and birds and crops. Even the insects are not overlooked and offered rice and flour, in the form of 'Kollam', on the entrance way of the houses. Thus, Pongal is a day for peace and happiness for all.

Pongal 2010: 14th January...the same day as my hubby's birthday!

Blue Moon on New Year's Eve

2009-12-30T09:32:00.003-05:00

Blue Moon...

If you can take a break from all that New Year's Eve revelry on Thursday, take a look up in the sky. A second full moon in a calendar month will appear in the night sky, an occurrence known as a blue moon.

A blue moon comes every two-and-a-half years on average, but this will be the first time since 1990 that it will coincide with New Year's Eve. The event will not happen again till 2028. "While everyone's celebrating they should also take a moment and look up into the night sky," the Sydney Morning Herald quoted astronomer David Reneke, who is associated with the Australasian Science magazine, as saying. Instead of turning blue, Reneke said, the moon, if anything, could turn red when viewed from cities because of the filter effect of fireworks smoke. So, he said, the best way to view the moon in its pristine state was to get away from the city lights.

But, Reneke said, the eruption in 1883 of the Krakatoa--a volcanic island in the Sunda Strait between the islands of Java and Sumatra in Indonesia--spilled so much dust into the atmosphere that for two years afterwards, the moon took on a bluish hue.

'Blue moon' has become a metaphor for a rare event, as encapsulated in the phrase 'once in a blue moon'. The earliest record of the expression dates back to 1528. A pamphlet criticising the English clergy read: "If they say the moon is blue, we must believe that it is true." Another interpretation suggests 'blue moon' originates from the English meaning of 'belewe'--which can mean 'colour' or 'betrayer'.

Astrologically, a full moon indicates an eclipse, which is a turning point, and this one has some harrowing squares and oppositions to watch out for. Saturn in Libra still is square Pluto in Capricorn...indicating problems in relationships (over restictive/forced responsibilites) and a transformation and breakdown in the status quo...and Pluto indicates it is on a global level, not just personal. Add to that that the Sun & Venus are conjunct Pluto...giving it more power. Yikes! However, Venus has a soothing, protective quality to it...so that is good to somewhat calm those troubled waters. :D

And that is not all...Mars in Leo (strong position for Mars vital energy; must be acknowledged!) is moving into opposition to the Jupiter, Neptune, Chiron conjunction in Aquarius (Big spiritual growth emerging through painful lessons)...Mars/Jupiter matchups can indicate the life of the party that EVERYONE notices, and overdoing things in general, like partying too much, especially with Neptune (drinking) and Chiron (the painful hangover the next day). If you plan on going out, be sure to take your Vit B's and asprin early...drink lots of water, especially with the Blue Moon in Cancer.

Eclipses can bring sudden news, and in Cancer, it’s to do with security, family, and for Americans, our national identity. Everyone may be seeking comfort, a sense of intimate connection, hominess. This is the really important stuff...don't forget this in your celebrations.

Perhaps a better way to utilize this energy on New Year's Eve is to focus on how you want to grow spiritually in the coming new year...resolve to transform old restictive limitations you have placed on yourself...with love. (Thanks Venus!)

December 21st...Winter Solstice/Cusp of Capricorn

2009-12-21T09:50:00.004-05:00

Quite the happening day, today...much like Capricorn, a Cardinal or initiating zodiac sign that begins today. It is a day when the Earth’s axis tilts the farthest from the Sun and is called winter solstice, a term derived from Latin words ‘sol’ (sun) and ‘sistere’ (to stand still). It is the shortest day of the year (in the Northern Hemisphere)...cold and limiting...and the start of winter.

In pre-historic times, winter was a very difficult time for our ancestors in the northern latitudes. The growing season had ended and the people had to survive on the foods they stored, and whatever animals they could catch. The people would be troubled as the life-giving sun sank lower in the sky each noon. They feared that it would eventually disappear and leave them in permanent darkness and extreme cold. After the winter solstice, they would have reason to celebrate as they saw the sun rising and strengthening once more. Although many months of cold weather remained before spring, they took heart that the return of the warm season was inevitable. The concept of birth and or death/rebirth became associated with the winter solstice. In spite of the fact that people originally had no elaborate instruments to detect the solstice, they were able to notice a slight elevation of the sun's path within a few days after the solstice -- perhaps by DEC-25. Celebrations were often timed for about the 25th. Interesting timing, for the Christians to celebrate the birth of Christ, eh? :D

As to Capricorn - when you hear of this sign, think: Mature, Ambitious, Responsible, Designing, Patient, Goal-seeker, Traditional.

As the tenth sign of the zodiac, Capricorn represents the tenth stage in the evolution of man and his place in the universe. Having gained power and control through emotions and knowledge in Scorpio and Sagittarius, Capricorn seeks control by virtue of authority. All authority is given its control by rules and regulations which civilized society accepts and with which they must comply in order to progress. For all their concern with legality or the propriety of things, Capricorns can be guilty of making or enforcing rules they themselves do not follow. Blinded by their own ambition, and obsessed with their goals, they adopt the philosophy that the end justifies the means.

Capricorns are doers. They set out to accomplish things and are determined to succeed one way or another. By nature they are executives and managers. Ambitious, pragmatic, and goal-oriented, they learn how to get things done. The mountain goat is an appropriate astrological symbol for this sign since a sure-footed, methodical climb to the top is the main goal of Capricorn individuals. They aspire to positions of power and authority, and they admire others who attain such positions. Initiative and willingness to accept responsibilities are keys to their success. Wanting to be admired and respected, they do not want to appear weak or ineffective. This false pride makes it hard for them to admit when they are wrong or to ask others for help. Though they aggressively compete for what they want with apparent sureness, they harbor inner lack of confidence which makes them defensive. Viewing insecurity and fear as weaknesses, they attempt to hide such feelings, making it hard for others to get close to them. As children they have unusual maturity. They are in a hurry to participate in the adult world and often get along better with older children and adults than with their peers.

Capricorns react to what they experience by assessing its possible worth. Before they take physical action, before they sort out their emotional involvement, and before they reason it out intellectually, they must ascertain what tangible advantages are to be gained from the experience. They gladly work long and hard if it means getting what or who they want. They can be very lazy if they see no sense in working, or if they can achieve the same goals in a less strenuous manner. They have a good sense of humor but will not tolerate being ridiculed or teased on a personal level. Those who set out to so abuse a Capricorn, will soon learn the error of their ways.

Saturn, planet of structure and reality, is the ruler of Capricorn, which means that Capricorns need to know and understand limits in all areas of life. Early in life they should be taught traditional values, rules and regulations, and proper thought and behavior. Even if they reject these things later, it allows them to develop and focus on specific goals. Without the structure of rules, restrictions, and values to guide them up the mountain toward their goals, they lose their way. Ambition and enthusiasm fade. Knowing the rules and regulations and the way that society is structured makes them feel they understand the reality of life. And for Capricorn, once the reality of something is understood, it is much easier to handle and manipulate. This approach makes them good builders, engineers, politicians, lawyers, and business executives. Capricorns often look older or more mature when they are young. However, when they reach middle age the reverse occurs. They seem to defy the aging process, and retain a remarkably youthful appearance well into old age.

Capricorns usually do not have a predisposition to be fat. Good dietary habits in their youth tend to stay with them as adults. Their innate spirit of competition makes them enthusiastic sportsmen. They can be so aggressively determined to win, it is difficult for them to be gracious when they lose. They make good team players as well as good team managers. Jogging, running (especially cross-country), golf, skating, hunting, wrestling, boxing, martial arts, and body-building are favorite activities. They also favor gun collecting, perhaps because guns are undeniable symbols of authority.

Capricorn colors are chocolate brown, royal and navy blue, dark green, charcoal gray, and red. Vulnerable parts of the body are the bones and joints (especially the knees), teeth, and skin. Though sensitive skin, allergies, and broken bones are their most likely complaints, worrying too much can also result in physical problems. The garnet is Capricorn's birthstone. This gemstone is believed to keep its wearers from accidents and falls. In some ancient societies garnets were worn only by royalty. Capricorn flowers include the camellia, orange blossom, carnation (red), baby's breath, and magnolia.

Serious Capricorn is supported by cedarwood essential oil, Cedrus atlantica. Inhaling the oils of cedarwood increases the ability to think clearly and enhances the awareness needed for effective prayer and meditation. This is because of all the essential oils of the world, Cedarwood contains the highest concentration of sesquiterpenes, which have the ability to pass through the blood-brain barrier and oxygenate the brain directly upon inhalation by way of the nasal passages and the olfactory nerves. It has been suggested that cedarwood oil might prevent senility and Alzheimers disease. Perhaps this is why the palaces of King David and King Solomon were built of cedar.

Scents for the Season...

2009-12-17T19:21:00.003-05:00

This time of year has so many memories...and memories are closely associated with scents. Since both memory and olfactory functions are both located in the limbric ring (or our 'reptile brain'), it is no wonder that they go hand in hand. Some of my favorite holiday scents include cinnamon, clove & orange; vanilla; peppermint; and of course - Spruce Fir or Pine.

What I like to do is blend Spruce Fir with Frankincense essential oils (2/3 to 1/3) for a blend I call 'Silent Night'. It reminds me of a quiet church on Christmas eve. It is wonderful to diffuse at night; I find it very calming and steadying, a balm to the harried pace of the holiday season.

Here are some other great ideas for holiday scenting:

An Aromatherapy Christmas - Holiday Recipes

Enjoy!

New Moon in Sagittarius

2009-12-16T15:36:00.003-05:00

Go BIG on new projects! It's a lucky time; but with the close conjunction with Pluto (which is squared to Saturn), be sure that your new BIG project is responsible and for the greater good; then success will be assured.

Happy Birthday Sagittarius!!

2009-12-01T08:32:00.004-05:00

Well, I have been so busy with the festivities of this time of year, and didn't get to post this on the cusp of this astrological sign...but all that frantic partying we do during the holidays does represent the season of Sagittarius. Heh :D Add to it a Full Moon in Gemini tomorrow - the 'Long Nights Moon' and a second (Blue) Full Moon on New Year's Eve this should prove to be quite the passionate holiday season, with all that fire and lunar energies around.

Back to our birthday sign...when you think Sagittarius, you should think: Independent, Truth-seeker, Traveler, Talkative, Theatrical, Athletic, Tactless, Over- confident

As the ninth sign of the zodiac, Sagittarius represents the ninth stage in the evolution of man and his place in the universe. As Scorpio seeks to understand and control with emotional power, Sagittarius seeks to understand and control with knowledge. Most Sagittarians have an intellectual curiosity that covers a wide range of subjects. Never try to present Sagittarians with facts because they already have an unlimited supply which they gladly recite in rapid succession. They become bored and restless when surrounded by people or circumstances in which they have no interest. At such times, they find ways to disappear physically or mentally. They would rather learn things on their own through travel and experience than endure structured classroom environments and routine work assignments. However, given opportunities to broaden their knowledge and gain experience in the world on their own, they become excellent teachers and administrators in the very type of educational system they once found so restricting.

Sagittarians readily adapt to change. This trait is a strength because it is a survival mechanism, and a weakness because it makes them vulnerable to the demands and influence of other people. One of their greatest facilities for adapting to change is making home wherever they happen to be. The astrological symbols for Sagittarius are the hunter (archer) and the centaur, the mythical half man and half horse. They represent the Sagittarian search for collecting and disseminating truth and knowledge as well as their constant search for new ideas and new adventures. They are usually quite talkative and, as a rule, do not hesitate to give their honest opinions, a gesture which seems tactless at times though it is rarely their intention to be cruel. They have a ready wit and appreciate the humor even in grim situations.

Sagittarians react physically to everything they experience in life. Before they assess the practicality or worth of what they are doing, before they sort out their true emotions, and before they take time to reason things out intellectually, they have a tendency to shoot first and ask questions later. Communication-oriented Sagittarians are forever running around with energy and enthusiasm. They are independent and hard to pin down for long, and indeed, this is the sign of the bachelor. In one way or another even married Sagittarians seek to maintain some aspect of personal independence.

Jupiter, planet of bountiful fortunes and good luck, rules Sagittarians. As a rule, most of them have generous natures and friendly, optimistic personalities. Natural politicians, they are interested in knowing everyone and in going everywhere. For the true Sagittarian personality, life is something to be enjoyed every day. Addicted to all the good things in life, they know how to get maximum enjoyment from them. Unfortunately too much of a good thing can be ruinous, and prudence is a difficult trait for most Sagittarians to acquire. The philosophy that "more is better" describes their tendency for overdoing, a tendency that can result in some negative situations. Being overly spiritual or too philosophical, for example, they get too far out of touch with the real world. Making overblown efforts to be prudent in one area, they can still manage to bankrupt themselves by overindulging in other areas. Their attempt to be prudent can get so far out of line, that they turn into a miser.

Sagittarians are enthusiastic sportsmen. They enjoy physically challenging endeavors of all kinds. Archery, jogging, hang gliding, sailing, and fishing (especially for big sport fish such as sword fish or blue marlin) are favorite activities. One of the biggest challenges to overcome may be the battle of the bulge when their fondness for great quantities of food and drink finally catches up with them. They are natural gamblers and risk-takers, and usually have the good fortune to come out on the winning side of wagers, especially when they try their luck at horse or dog racing. They love music, art, dance, and drama (theater) and many of them have considerable talent in these areas.

Sagittarian colors are maroon, tan, navy, orange, and cobalt blue. Vulnerable parts of the body are the thighs, hips, and, to some extent, the feet. Their physical complaints are apt to be the result of unrestricted diets or an overly indulgent pursuit of other pleasures. The ancients associated the ruby with Sagittarius, while modern astrologers gives this sign the turquoise. The Sagittarian's highly adaptable, somewhat dual-natured personality can easily associate itself with both gems. Because Sagittarius is associated with bigness in general, flowers for this sign include the large blooms such as huge mums, hydrangeas, dahlias, and peonies.

Optimistic, gypsy-spirited Sagittarius is supported by Jupiterian ruled Sage essential oil, Salvia Officinalis, an evergreen perennial. The transcendental qualities of Sage smoke-smudging have been revered in Native American ritual. Sage takes its name from the Latin root 'salvare' meaning 'to heal' or 'to save'. It was considered a sacred herb by the Romans who used it both medicinally and in cooking. It was used in the Middle Ages by village 'wise women' (burnt at the stake for their practice of 'witchcraft') to help with child birth, menstruation and menopausal difficulties. Among many uses of the herb, Culpepper says that it is:
'Good for diseases of the liver and to make blood." How fitting for a Sag!

New Moon

2009-11-16T22:14:00.003-05:00

Ah, new moon in Scorpio. Intense transitions. Good time to break with the old habits that are not working for you anymore, and start with the new ones to help you reach your goals.

Back on my diet & exercise routines!!

Ah, Halloween!

2009-10-30T17:54:00.002-04:00

"The Romans adopted the Celtic practices as their own. But in the first century AD, Samhain was assimilated into celebrations of some of the other Roman traditions that took place in October, such as their day to honor Pomona, the Roman goddess of fruit and trees. The symbol of Pomona is the apple, which might explain the origin of our modern tradition of bobbing for apples on Halloween.

The thrust of the practices also changed over time to become more ritualized. As belief in spirit possession waned, the practice of dressing up like hobgoblins, ghosts, and witches took on a more ceremonial role.

The custom of Halloween was brought to America in the 1840's by Irish immigrants fleeing their country's potato famine. At that time, the favorite pranks in New England included tipping over outhouses and unhinging fence gates.

The custom of trick-or-treating is thought to have originated not with the Irish Celts, but with a ninth-century European custom called souling. On November 2, All Souls Day, early Christians would walk from village to village begging for "soul cakes," made out of square pieces of bread with currants. The more soul cakes the beggars would receive, the more prayers they would promise to say on behalf of the dead relatives of the donors. At the time, it was believed that the dead remained in limbo for a time after death, and that prayer, even by strangers, could expedite a soul's passage to heaven.

The Jack-o-lantern custom probably comes from Irish folklore. As the tale is told, a man named Jack, who was notorious as a drunkard and trickster, tricked Satan into climbing a tree. Jack then carved an image of a cross in the tree's trunk, trapping the devil up the tree. Jack made a deal with the devil that, if he would never tempt him again, he would promise to let him down the tree."

- Canuckville, Useless Matter That Doesn't Really Matter

Happy Birthday Scorpios!

2009-10-23T18:59:00.002-04:00

Keywords: Strong-willed, Secretive, Possessive, Vengeful, Investigator, Passionate

As the eighth sign of the zodiac, Scorpio represents the eighth stage in the evolution of man and his place in the universe. This stage is concerned with an emotional development that goes beyond Cancerian concern with home and family. Scorpio's emotional involvement is not based on love or pleasure, but on the control and understanding of human emotions and the role they play in the mysterious process of life and death. Though all Scorpios do not spend their lives pondering the mysteries of life and death, most of them are inquisitive, probing individuals. They are fascinated with how things work, especially people. Their mental and physical powers of recuperation are remarkable, and truly evolved Scorpios can learn to use their power to help and inspire others.

Scorpios are stubborn and impervious to changes not of their own making. However they accomplish many things in life because of their tenacity in sticking with projects when others lose patience and stamina. On the surface they may seem easy-going, congenial, and gregarious but they are also extremely tenacious with a tendency to manipulate and control. Keys to their success are a strong will and the ability to get to the bottom of things. They want answers and doggedly persist until they get them. Astrological symbols for Scorpio are the scorpion and the eagle. They representative the potency and range of the formidable power and control that Scorpios can develop.

Scorpios react emotionally to everything they experience in life. Before they take physical action, before they sort out the practicality of what they are doing, and before they reason things out intellectually, they express their feelings. Though their emotions are the strongest motivational factor in their behavior, unlike the emotionally oriented Cancerians and Pisceans, Scorpios are not apt to wear their hearts on their sleeves. They consciously or subconsciously want to dominate relationships and rarely exhibit emotions openly. Even when they seem to be open, they always hold back something of themselves. They may not intentionally want to be mysterious but many of them manage to appear enigmatic anyway. They do not like being crossed or manipulated, and react to such treatment with sarcasm and vengefulness.

Modern astrologers assign Pluto, planet of intensity and depth, as the ruler of Scorpio. Ancient astrologers (unaware of Pluto's existence) assigned Mars, planet of fire and energy, as the ruler of Scorpio. Both of these planets can be seen to influence the nature of those born in Scorpio. The focus and concentration of their expressions and personality makes them appear magnetic and powerful. The fiery energy of Mars that is exhibited when they are enthusiastic attracts and inspire others. Their intensity can be overwhelming but also subtle. Their considerable energy is not aroused or employed just to have something to do as is often the case with Aries, the other Mars-ruled personality. Unlike Aries, Scorpio is not openly combative unless it becomes necessary. Their privacy is tightly protected, and others get to know them only up to a certain point. They may not show any sign of inner struggle but when they are after something or someone their determination is fierce. Should they not be favored in the outcome, they are not willing or gracious losers. They are not arrogant and, in fact, are quite interested in others and what others have to say. However they often exhibit a self-sufficiency that implies there isn't much they don't already know.

Scorpios have a strong, competitive nature. With little effort they become exceptional athletes. They want real challenges and will not easily suffer would-be competitors who do not possess skills that are equal to their own. They enjoy sports that require strength, swiftness, and cunning. Body-building, soccer, hockey, hunting, swimming, scuba diving, and spelunking are favorite activities. Scorpio is associated with the mythical phoenix rising from the ashes. This symbol not only represents their own recuperative powers, it also represents their resourceful ability to create something new out of something old or useless. Recycling, and renovating homes and other buildings are typical projects for which they are well suited. Creative potentials include those who are outstanding cooks, writers, designers, and composers. Their shrewdness in assessing value makes them excellent real estate agents and developers, bankers, stockbrokers, and financial planners.

Scorpio colors are red, black, midnight blue, and emerald green. Vulnerable parts of the body are the reproductive organs and excretory system. Headaches, infections, and fevers are Scorpio complaints. Topaz is Scorpio's birthstone. The Roman naturalist, Pliny the Elder, traced the name to the Island of Topazos which, in Greek means "to guess. " This meaning is a fair description of the inquisitive, mystery-loving nature of Scorpio. Topaz, one of the hardest minerals, cannot be cut with a knife. It is yet another representation of the impenetrable Scorpio nature. Scorpio flowers include the anemone, heather, and gardenia.

Intense, passionate Scorpio is supported by Basil essential oil, Ocimum Basilicum, ruled by Mars. This annual, a spicy aromatic, is known for its medicinal and culinary traits. Also an aphrodisiac, symbolizing Scorpionic faithfulness, Basil calms and clarifies while enhancing concentration.

Happy Birthday Libras!

2009-09-22T18:58:00.002-04:00

As the seventh sign of the zodiac, Libra represents the seventh stage in the evolution of man and his place in the universe. The first six signs represent man's attention turned inward to understand and develop his individuality and position in the cosmos. The rest of the signs represent his attention turned outward to humanity as a whole. Libra is not merely the sign of partnership, it is the sign of other people in general. Libra is the balance between the individual and society. To attain the understanding man seeks in Libra, there must be a compromise between the passion and the intellect. The physical world must come to terms with the nonphysical world. The objectivity of judgment needed for these tasks is characteristic of the Libran temperament. Un-evolved Librans can be cold and unemotional or unable to make decisions. But this is not true of mature Librans in whom such traits merely represent attempts to reach true objectivity.

Librans are doers. In spite of their need to be liked, and reluctance to face confrontations, they are surprisingly strong-willed. They set out to accomplish their goals and will find ways to succeed one way or another, usually by using their wit and charm. The "iron fist in a velvet glove" approach is one key to their success. When such ploys are ineffective however, they can become uncharacteristically aggressive and determined to solve the matter then and there. Their change of attitude in such situations is usually effective enough to catch others off guard and allow the Librans to gain control. If they become convinced nothing more is to be gained no matter what they do, they won't hesitate to walk away from a situation with no further explanation or thought of returning. The Scales are Libra's astrological symbol and Librans require balance in their lives. In relationships, they invariably give back in kind what they have been given.

Librans react to everything they experience in life with an intellectual orientation. Before they take physical action, before they assess the practical worth of something, and before they sort out their true emotions, they try to visualize it objectively as a kind of mental exercise. It would be a mistake to believe they lack passion. They can be outrageous flirts and true romantics. Their passion is not apt to be sustained however, if their interest in someone does not include intellectual rapport as well as physical attraction.

Venus, planet of beauty and social grace, rules Libra. They get emotional, physical, and psychological pleasure from beauty in all forms. Books, music, flowers, and perfume are typical delights. If their environment is not esthetically pleasing, they can become unhappy without even realizing that their surroundings may be at least partly responsible for their depression. For Librans, social grace begins with good manners, extends to high level diplomacy, and ends with abhorrence of disagreeable confrontations. When forced to endure a fractious environment, they lose ability to think or function efficiently. They promote peace and harmony, and will invariably opt to bypass hostile confrontations whenever some equally effective method can be employed. Though they need partnership and association with other people, they do not like crowds and attempt to avoid them whenever possible.

Librans can exert impressive physical energy but the stamina they need to do it tends to run in cycles. They work hard, play hard, and then collapse into inertia until nature restores the balance and their energy returns. Addicted to the luxuries and creature comforts of life, Librans have a lazy streak, especially when it comes to physical exercise. Few of them will walk if they can ride. Fondness for rich food (sugar is their biggest weakness) makes it necessary to get proper physical exercise. However, if they have not been thoroughly indoctrinated to the virtues of physical fitness from childhood, and in the meanwhile nothing or no one has come along to inspire them to stay in shape, they simply turn into marshmallows. Tennis, hiking, horseback riding, skating, and aerobics are a few activities with special appeal for Librans.

Libra colors are ivory, pink (or rose), turquoise, and blue. Vulnerable parts of the body are the kidneys, lumbar region of the back, and ovaries. Lower back pain, and the problems caused by too much sugar or rich food are common complaints. Libra's birthstone is the opal. This unique gem consists mostly of ordinary sand and water. Just as hidden water in opals cause the fire in the gem, there is more emotional content than is apparent behind the brilliant flashes of the Libran intellect. Libra rules flowers in general but particularly appropriate blooms for Libra include roses (white or pink), daisies, violets, asters, and orchids.

Sweet, ever-balancing Libra is supported by Venusian-ruled Geranium essential oil, Pelargonium Graveolens, for its tonic properties. Moderation is not always a Libran trait; this anti-inflammatory aromatic balances the nervous system while stimulating the lymphatic system. Its refreshing quality helps the adrenals regulate hormones and assists as an anti-inflammatory.

New Moon in Virgo

2009-09-18T14:55:00.003-04:00

Yep, another new moon...another opportunity to start fresh & explore new beginnings.

This is a wonderful post, and I wanted to further comment about the many planets conjunct at (or about) 26 degrees Virgo. If you consult the Sabian Symbols, the Sabian Symbol for this degree is:

A Boy with A Censer Serves Near the Priest at the Altar

Okay...that's quite an image. Interestingly, we have sun, moon, Mercury & Saturn all conjunct...and I can visualize Saturn as the priest- traditional, reverent of the ritual; sun could be the burning incense within the censer (moon?) and the boy would be Mercury - the playful trickster.

The really funny thing is that I had decided to write about today's Sabian Symbol before looking it up - and when I saw what it was I had to LOL!! You see, years ago I had a very interesting experience with a boy - actually two boys (Mercury rules Gemini, the Twins) serving a priest at the altar...and the two of them got into a fight over who would swing the censer! As the two of them tugged on the censer, trying to gain control, the censer flew out of both of their hands and clanked down the altar stairs. One of the boys finally got control over the censer, and then swung it so hard the boy choked from the intense incense emitted. Why do I remember this so vividly from years ago? Because I also was up near the altar, as a lector, and also the mother of the two altar boys with sibling rivalry. I bet there are still fingernail marks in the podium where I grasped it so hard in order not to cry out or leave my place and correct my less then reverent sons.

Heh - did I mention Uranus, the planet of unexpected changes is in opposition to the new moon conjunction? :D

Well, I'm going to call those altar boys of mine today...who now have children of their own. And Nana can easily laugh at the grandkids exploits - karma is good! Heh!

My top five essential oils to have for 'first aid'

2009-09-12T17:42:00.002-04:00

FYI - if I had to pick my top essential oils to have on hand, I would pick these to have in my essential oil first aid kit:

EUCALYPTUS (Eucalyptus globules):

Some of this oil's properties are expectorant, decongestant, insecticide, analgesic, antirheumatic and antiseptic. Inhibits proliferation of the cold virus. Deters mosquitoes and other insects. Effective in all types of fever, lowers the temperature, makes breathing easier, loosens phlegm. It is one of the most valuable oils for treating the respiratory system. According to research, the spraying of a 2% emulsion containing eucalyptus oil kills off 70% of local airborne staphylococci. It also eases muscle and joint aches and pains. Eucalyptus stimulates circulation, increasing the flow of blood to affected areas. Eucalyptus can be mentally stimulating – it ‘opens you up’ and may help increase concentration.

LAVENDER (Lavandula angustifolia):

Among its many properties, it's known to be analgesic, antidepressant, antirheumatic, antiseptic, antispasmodic, antiviral, bactericide, cicatrizant, decongestant, deodorant, diuretic, fungicide, sedative. Soothes the spirit, relieves anger, valuable in manic-depressive cases. Has a sedative action on the heart, assists in bringing down high blood pressure, relieves insomnia, relieves muscular spasms and rheumatic pains. The first essential oil one should reach for in the case of minor burns and sunburn. Useful with menstrual problems, bronchitis and headaches. Useful in a diffuser in the delivery room. May be useful in nausea, vomiting and colic. Keeps insects at bay. Purifies the air. Promotes growth of new skin cells, great healing effect on burns and sunburn, acne, psoriasis, boils, fungal growths, and scarring. Lavender is one of the safest essential oils to use with children and the elderly. Lavender is great for relaxing in the tub, or diffusing for soothing, relaxation, or wooing sleep.

PEPPERMINT (Mentha x Piperita):

Peppermint is one of the 'basic necessities' for a first aid kit. It is one of the oils often recommended for easing migraines (especially those stemming from digestive problems); it helps clear congestion in the sinuses; it can ease indigestion (one drop on a sugar cube, or in a spoonful of honey.) Mentally, it clears the brain, helps concentration, is a restorative in cases of mental fatigue, and a mental stimulant. Obviously not an oil to use in the evening when you are seeking sleep, but great in the car to help keep the driver alert. Peppermint is the ideal remedy for all digestive disorders, including nausea and vomiting. It is a great remedy for car or air sickness.

In a massage, it helps stimulate the lymph system. It is also an analgesic and aids with treating sore muscles and joint pain. In skincare, a very weak dilution (less than 1%) is helpful for easing itching or irritation. (I add a few drops to Calamine Lotion to treat Poison Ivy!) Definitely a case where "less is more" since in a higher concentration it will be irritating. One or two drops of peppermint added to a bath is wonderfully cooling; however more than that is TOO cold.

TEA TREE (Melaleuca Alternifolia):

Tea Tree has won a reputation as a 'cure all' because of its powerful anti fungal, antiviral and antibacterial properties. It is the first suggestion for athlete's foot, nail viruses and other fungal infections. Often used in antiacne remedies, as well as in diffuser to combat the flu and other viral infections. It is often recommended as the remedy for a vaginal candida infection. Also Tea Tree is very supportive of the immune system; I use it in a 5% dilution in a carrier oil to massage the thymus gland (located under the sternum) to activate the immune system.

OREGANO OIL (Origanum vulgare):

Not the herb you put on pizza and pasta, wild mountain oregano (a highly aromatic member of the mint family found only in the Mediterranean) is a potent remedy for skin problems (like warts) and fungal conditions, chronic pain, insect bites, even nasty summer colds. Its powerful antiseptic, antibacterial, antiparasitical, antiviral, analgesic, antifungal properties, anti-spasmodic properties and ability to stimulate the immune system. are attributed to the active ingredient - carvacrol.

For yeast infections, a 1995 study published in the Journal of Applied Nutrition found that the carvacrol contained in a 1 percent concentration of oregano oil effectively killed the bacteria Candida albicans. One caveat: Oregano is very warming. (NO JOKE!) "When the plant's phenols [a type of flavonoid], which are rich in oxygen, hit water, they create a hydrogen ion shift and produce heat," explains Ingram, who points out that oregano owes its germ-fighting prowess to the heat. "The heat reaction dehydrates germs and kills them, with no harm to the human tissues," he says. "Although it could be uncomfortable." BE SURE TO DILUTE the Oregano essential oil at least 10% or more in a carrier oil if using topically. Very phenolic.

Just sniffing the Oregano oil is very helpful - to kill any germs in your nasal passage, and also to enter the blood stream rapidly.

Happy 09/09/09!

2009-09-09T17:59:00.004-04:00

Well - 09/09/09 is an interesting date, right? Today is the 252nd day of the year, 252 adds to 9, and 09-09-09 = 27, which also reduces to 9. The day itself falls on a Wednesday and both Wednesday & September have 9 letters. 09-09-09 is also the last of the single-digits dates for quite a while – 1,001 years to be precise. And the meaning of the number nine is not yet the full or complete, number ten, but it does mark the ending. It is the last of the single digits, in our decimal numbering system. Thus it can represent the conclusion or ending of a matter.

In numerology, number 9 is the most humanitarian of all numbers.

You are socially conscious, concerned about the betterment of the world, idealistic, visionary, tolerant, imaginative and creative, compassionate, romantic, selfless and generous. are also giving, sharing, loving, caring, noble and aristocratic.

You don't mind sacrificing time, money and energy for a better world. You usually finish what you start and you are ready to sacrifice without the need for reward.

Interesting in that in astrology, the Ninth House is traditionally ruled by the Sign Sagittarius and the Planet Jupiter, and is considered the House of Philosophy, Education, Religion & Long Distance Travel. The Ninth House reminds us that we are on a voyage of discovery. Along that road, we will come face-to-face with our ideals and further shape the ethics by which we live.

There are 9 planets in our solar system (sorry, I'm old school - Pluto is still a planet to me); 9 months in a human pregnancy; important Buddhist rituals usually involve nine monks; in Norse Mythology, Odin hung himself on an ash tree for nine days to learn the runes; there are 9 choirs of angels; there are nine circles of Hell in Dante's Divine Comedy; and the nine muses in Greek mythology are Calliope (epic poetry), Clio (history), Erato (erotic poetry), Euterpe (lyric poetry), Melpomene (tragedy), Polyhymnia (song), Terpsichore (dance), Thalia (comedy), and Urania (astronomy).

The Beatles really liked this number, and today is the day that the remastered Beatles albums go on sale, as well as the computer game - The Beatles: Rock Band.

Hope this gets you on 'cloud nine'! :D

Oldie but Goodie...article by Gabriel Mojay

2009-08-30T19:45:00.003-04:00

(from PositiveHealth.com)

One of my favorite books on aromatherapy is Aromatherapy for Healing the Spirit by Gabriel Mojay. In his book, Mojay details several essentials oils, giving not only their physical characteristics and abilities, but also speaks of their spiritual energies, utilizing Oriental & Ayurvedic principles.

I just came across an older article of Mojay's - but it is still very informative; to read it please click on the link:

Aromatherapy Energetics An Oriental Approach

TAO TE CHING - Chapter 76. Flexibility

2009-08-26T21:40:00.002-04:00

TAO TE CHING - Chapter 76. Flexibility

A newborn is soft and tender,
A crone, hard and stiff.
Plants and animals, in life, are supple and succulent;
In death, withered and dry.
So softness and tenderness are attributes of life,
And hardness and stiffness, attributes of death.

Just as a sapless tree will split and decay
So an inflexible force will meet defeat;
The hard and mighty lie beneath the ground
While the tender and weak dance on the breeze above.

Happy Birthday Virgos!

2009-08-22T18:46:00.003-04:00

Virgo, a mutable Earth sign, doesn't like instability. They can get very critical and demanding when they feel insecure; but what is more unstable then mutable earth? (Think earthquakes) That is one of the reasons Virgo is so detail orientated (besides that fact that mental Mercury is their ruler) and why they find comfort in collecting facts; they want solid footing in all their endeavors. Virgos do adapt to change. This trait is a strength because it is a survival mechanism, and a weakness because it makes them vulnerable to the demands and influence of other people. Instinctively responsive to the needs of others, they usually adapt to different people and changing circumstances by finding ways to make themselves useful.

The Virgin is the astrological symbol of Virgo and, like the true virgin, most Virgos are shy. Like a virgin waiting to give herself to the perfect lover, Virgos are also idealistic. Unfortunately when they allow idealism to get out of hand, nothing is accomplished. The virgin becomes a bitter spinster and talents die on the vine. Though intensely personal situations are inhibiting, there are other situations when Virgos can be very dynamic. When the spotlight is not directly on them but on a product or a service they offer, they are excellent salespersons.

And as the sixth sign of the zodiac, Virgo represents the need is to find ways to use one's individual talents for service to others. For many Virgos, the need to make things better is satisfied by pursuing careers in health-related fields or in other areas such as teaching, labor relations, environmental protection, social work, or religious counseling. Though most of them do have altruistic motives in helping others, it must also be said that Virgos have a tendency to act the martyr when their service or counseling is ignored, and it is not unheard of for them to use guilt as a weapon when they want to elicit the attention and cooperation of others. Virgos have to learn that helping others to improve is one thing, but pushing them toward goals of perfection they cannot hope to accomplish is destructive as well as impossible.

The sixth house, the house Virgo rules, also represents health & routine; hence Virgos are usually health conscious - some to the point of hypochondria. Many Virgos make an effort to stay physically fit. If they are convinced that results can be achieved, they don't mind tedious exercise routines. They enjoy tennis, racquetball, swimming, sailing, fishing, and biking. As athletes, Virgos are not overly competitive. Most of them do however, attempt to perfect whatever skills they do have in a particular sport. They are likely to be talented craftsman, seamstresses, or designers, and may have particular interest in such things as cartography, travel, and philately.

Virgos react to what they experience by assessing its practical worth. Before they take physical action, before they sort out their emotional involvement, and before they reason it out intellectually, they must ascertain what tangible advantages are to be gained from the experience. This is why they need all those details they strive to collect. If the advantages they find are not necessarily useful to them, they are willing to give them to those who can benefit. Virgos are effective negotiators. They patiently endure endless details and responsibilities if convinced it accomplishes an end they think justifies their efforts.

Mercury, planet of the intellect, also rules communication, which is important to talkative Virgos. They love books, magazines, and writing. With a critical eye for organization and detail and their constant search for perfection, Virgos have an irresistible urge to improve everything and everyone, whether they need it or not. Virgos are not above using their inability to achieve perfection as an excuse for their own idleness and unproductiveness. Out of character with their true nature, these Virgos are sloppy, disorganized, and irresponsible. What is worse, their own bad habits do not in the least inhibit them from criticizing others for the same behavior. Their analytical ability makes them excellent critics of the talent and performance of those more skilled than themselves. Virgos need to think that what they do is of a practical and helpful nature. The worthiness of their self-sacrificing efforts is spoiled at times however, when they exact tangible proof of gratitude from those who benefited from their actions.

Virgo colors are blue, yellow, gray, tan, navy, and lilac. Vulnerable parts of the body are the sinuses, respiratory system, and bowels. Colds, flu, allergies, and constipation are common Virgo complaints. The sapphire, which is a variety of the mineral corundum, is Virgo's birthstone. This gem was considered by ancient societies as a love charm. Though they come in a variety of colors and can even be transparent, the most valuable sapphires are blue. Blue is also the principal color associated with Virgo. Flowers and plants for Virgo include the aster, chrysanthemum, ivy, and fern.

Methodical, conscientious, Mercury-ruled Virgo is supported by Peppermint essential oil, Mentha Piperita, for enhancing mental clarity. A widely favored aromatic stimulant with astringent qualities, it's used to alleviate headaches and depression. Mentha (Mint) was an attractive Nymph desired by Pluto. His wife Persephone pursued her and, upon her capture, jealously crushed Mentha into the Earth. However, Pluto redeemed Mentha by transforming her into a wonderfully fragrant, healing plant. Invigorating and refreshing, Peppermint also stabilizes digestive disorders - good for Virgo's nervous tummies.

A Vedic Astrologer's take on swine flu (H1N1)

2009-08-21T12:10:00.003-04:00

According to Anand Sagar Pathak:

The Kaal Purusha is the manifestation of time, which has been shown in personified form with reference to Lord Vishnu. In the above picture we can see that the Cancer sign (Karka rashi) represents the chest and the heart region of the Kaal Purusha. Human disease connected with the chest areas may be cold and cough and other symptoms found in influenza. The relationship of these symptoms is with the process of breathing which is the main function of lungs.

Cancer rashi signifies lungs as shown in the picture. Therefore, breath related disease in human beings can be related to Cancer rashi. This rashi is under constant affliction due to the transit of Ketu into this rashi from 30 th April 2008. This affliction was enhanced manifolds due to the Total Solar Eclipse of Sun by Ketu in this rashi on 22 nd July 2009...

The lord of Cancer rashi is Moon. Its element is water, which is the most important constituent of body fluids. The Moon rules over rainy season. According to Ayurveda, Kapha is one of the Tridoshas, which is produced by the combination of water and earth. Kapha increases anabolism and moon represents Kapha element. Cough and Cold are main symptom of swine flu.

The first case of swine flu in 2009 was reported on 2 nd May in Canada and it spread to many countries thereafter. Its intensity has increased rapidly in the season ruled by Moon (rainy season). The second enhancement in the intensity was after the Total Solar Eclipse due to conjunction of Sun and Ketu in Cancer rashi on 22 nd July 2009. In India this disease has acquired appreciable proportions after the solar eclipse.

Ketu means foreign land and foreigners as per Vedic astrology. Before the solar eclipse, swine flu was not a threat in India but, it was already a threat in Mexico and other countries. The disease has come into India from outside the country through human carriers. Swine flu has still not acquired serious proportions in India but “prevention is better than cure”. India's rashi as per Independence Day horoscope is Cancer (Karka) and swine flu is connected with this rashi.

Ketu in medical astrology is a nightmare for doctors. Ketu, not only makes diagnosis of disease very difficult, it also keeps on testing doctors with new diseases. One who masters Ketu will master the art of healing and diagnosis.

As per the transit of planets, swine flu will continue to remain a menace till Ketu remains in the Cancer rashi. Ketu will transit out of Cancer on 18th November 2009. It is expected that swine flu will be restrained after this date...

Interesting. I hope he is right about the swine flu being restrained by Nov 18th...

I do know that I will be diffusing my 'Germ Free Oil' on a regular basis - and practicing strict hand-washing protocol.

Utilizing aromatherapy for weight loss

2009-08-16T11:42:00.003-04:00

Two essential oils that I would recommend to assist with weight loss would be Grapefruit (Citrus Paradisi), and Peppermint (Mentha x piperita). Both essential oils are bright and invigorating - Grapefruit with its citric tang & Peppermint with its menthol-cool freshness.

Grapefruit essential oil is known as a 'happy' oil due to its uplifting qualities and is liked by children for this reason; it is said to improve concentration and self-confidence. It is considered to be anti-infectious, anti-inflammatory, anti-septic, detoxifying, anti-depressant, immune boosting, skin-toning and mentally rejuvenating. It is used in aromatherapy spa treatments to improve lymphatic drainage and to ease muscle stiffness, by dispersing lactic acids. It is also used as an aid to weight loss.

Per Grapefruit essential oil studies:

we observed that olfactory stimulation with scent of grapefruit oil (SGFO) enhances sympathetic nerve activities and suppresses gastric vagal (parasympathetic) nerve activity (GVNA), increases plasma glycerol concentration and body temperature, and decreases appetite in rats.

In other words - sniffing grapefruit essential oil can result in decreased appetite. In addition, if you like the smell of the oil, you will release endorphins when you sniff the grapefruit essential oil, and this can create a new neuropathway and a new habit to replace the old habit of snacking when hungry because you are bored or stressed.

Here is another interesting study done regarding Grapefruit essential oil:

Effect of aromatherapy massage on abdominal fat and body image in post-menopausal women

Department of Nursing, Wonkwang Health Science College, Korea. jm8711@naver.com

PURPOSE: The purpose of this study was to verify the effect of aromatherapy massage on abdominal fat and body image in post-menopausal women. METHOD: A Non-equivalent control group pre-post test Quasi-experimental design of random assignment was applied. All subjects received one hour of whole body massage as treatment by the same researcher every week for 6 weeks. Participants also massaged their own abdomen two times everyday for 5 days each week for 6 weeks. The two groups used different kinds of oil. The experimental group used 3% grapefruit oil, cypress and three other kinds of oil. The control group used grapeseed oil. Data was collected before and after the treatment using Siemens Somatom Sensation 4, a tape measure and MBSRQ. Data was analyzed by ANCOVA using the SPSS/PC+Win 12 Version. RESULT: Abdominal subcutaneous fat and waist circumference in the experimental group significantly decreased after aromatherapy massage compared to the control group. Body image in the experimental group was significantly better after aromatherapy massage than in the control group. CONCLUSION: These results suggest that Aromatherapy massage could be utilized as an effective intervention to reduce abdominal subcutaneous fat, waist circumference, and to improve body image in post-menopausal women.

I use grapefruit, cypress, and fennel essential oils in a synergy blend to detox - so I am not surprised at the results of this study. One word of caution - grapefruit oil does contain furocoumarins, which are responsible for phototoxic effects, so be VERY careful when applying this oil to the skin - dilute to not more then 3% and do not go out into the sun for at least 8 hours after application.

Pepperment has been proven in studies to aid in digestive issues, such as IBS. When dieting - I think that is quite useful. A cup of peppermint tea will help to settle the tummy, and give a lift, instead of munching on sugar-laden treats that while they give a quick lift - and then a crash!

Peppermint has also been shown to fight sleepiness (I always travel with it in my car especially for long trips).

In addition, research published in 2001 in the Journal of Sport and Exercise Psychology found that inhalation of peppermint increased athletic performance (fitness, strength & endurance) in human volunteers. Another research study at the Wheeling Jesuit University by Bryan Raudenbush and colleagues found that peppermint improved productivity and pain tolerance.

Which is wonderful if you are dieting - you will need the extra boost to get you going on your exercise and to be able to tolerate the aches and pains associated with your new habits. ;-)

So try sniffing grapefruit & peppermint essential oils when dieting - I think you will be glad you did!

That 70's show repeat?

2009-08-09T14:36:00.004-04:00

Well, according to one astrologer, Bob Marks - it is about to be a repeat of the 70's:

...Intensifying the risks of serious problems, Saturn and Uranus, the planet of sudden, unexpected change and chaos, are now opposite each other, which, Marks notes, can polarize a society and lead to social upheaval. He notes, in fact, we're already seeing new signs of upheaval with the demonstrations in Iran. The last time Saturn and Uranus were in opposition was in 1965 and 1966, the start of the all the upheavals of the sixties. Such a formation is slated to occur five times in the current cycle, two of which have already taken place. The last time was November 4 on Election Day, which means, Marks says, the U.S. will lack stability for the ensuing four years.

...Marks notes that Mars, the planet of energy, war and violence, will join Saturn and Uranus next July 10, while Jupiter, which enlarges things, and Saturn, the planet of extremes, will both be close by. In layman's terms, explains Marks, "you're looking at a meeting of King Kong and Godzilla with a whole bunch of other monsters thrown in." To our astrological worrier, it suggests "something will start next summer that will turn the world upside down."

Conspicuously ominous for the U.S., Marks tells me, is that Pluto is opposite this country's sun sign (the 4th of July sign of Cancer). The last time Pluto afflicted with the U.S. the sun sign was in 1972 though 1984. During that period, we experienced the first oil crisis (1973), Watergate (1972-1974), stagflation for the entire 1970s, the Iran hostage crisis (1979), the second oil crisis (1979), and during the eighties a major recession with unemployment over 10%.

Marks' astrological conclusion: "The crisis of the 1970s is coming back."

Hmmm...the is the chart for that time period, and it is quite busy:

It is good to be aware of the major energy that will be expressed during this period...aware and prepared. However - please note the grand trine going on also - between the Moon, Uranus & Pallas. Enlightened, wise empathy and concern for others can smooth over the intense energy - if we are aware of how to utilize that energy, rather then let it steamroll over us.

Thinking about giving up smoking? Think about Black Pepper EO...

2009-08-07T12:25:00.004-04:00

Great! You might think about using aromatherapy as a tool to help with this. The first thing I am going to say about which essential oils might be helpful - you need to find oils that YOU like. Any oils that evoke pleasure for you will cause you to release endorphins - and with repeated usage of the oils you can establish a new neuropathway with sniffing of an essential oil to evoke pleasure and calm - rather then via cigarettes. Take a sniff rather then light up, eh?

One of the essential oils you should consider using is Black Pepper essential oil - 'Piper nigrum'. Black Pepper has been used in Ayurvedic and Chinese medicine to treat malaria and cholera, as well as to relieve digestive complaints such as dysentery and diarrhea. Indian monks include black pepper in their diet every day to help them sustain their endurance and increase their energy. Black Pepper essential oil also has analgesic properties which make it great for pain relief, stiffness, hangovers and headaches.

On a subtle level, Black pepper is especially helpful in confronting fears, as black pepper provides strength, protection and stamina. Use black pepper to add spice to a relationship that has grown stale. Black Pepper is a catalyzer, enhancing the synergy of blends and increasing the potency of other oils. It is also of assistance in opening the electrical energy flow throughout whole body. Black Pepper is an oil that stimulates the conscious thought processes. It can enhance the desire to get going on a new project or getting on with a new direction in life. It can also help to free the mind from envious thoughts. Black Pepper can be used to help one focus on what you want to manifest. It can help one to deal with anger and give one the courage to do so. Black Pepper helps one to listen to our inner intuition and to take chances.

Black Pepper essential oil has also been featured in a research study and found to be effective in helping one to quit smoking.

Inhalation of vapor from black pepper extract reduces smoking withdrawal symptoms. Rose JE, Behm FM., Nicotine Research Laboratory (151-S), V.A. Medical Center, Durham, NC 27705.

Previous studies have suggested that sensory cues associated with cigarette smoking can suppress certain smoking withdrawal symptoms, including craving for cigarettes. In this study we investigated the subjective effects of a cigarette substitute delivering a vapor of black pepper essential oil. Forty-eight cigarette smokers participated in a 3-h session conducted after overnight deprivation from smoking. Subjects were randomly assigned to one of three conditions: one group of smokers puffed on a device that delivered a vapor from essential oil of black pepper; a second group puffed on the device with a mint/menthol cartridge, and a third group used a device containing an empty cartridge. Subjects puffed and inhaled ad libitum from the device throughout the session during which no smoking was allowed. Reported craving for cigarettes was significantly reduced in the pepper condition relative to each of the two control conditions. In addition, negative affect and somatic symptoms of anxiety were alleviated in the pepper condition relative to the unflavored placebo. The intensity of sensations in the chest was also significantly higher for the pepper condition. These results support the view that respiratory tract sensations are important in alleviating smoking withdrawal symptoms. Cigarette substitutes delivering pepper constituents may prove useful in smoking cessation treatment.

Another thing to keep in mind, is that you are also detoxing your body from the poisons of cigarettes. And when I am detoxing - I use a synergy of fennel, grapefruit, & cypress - all which help you to release toxins. Put a few drops of the synergy into about a cup or so of epson salts - and toss into your bath & soak awhile. Afterwards - be sure to drink lots of water.

If you are getting 'jittery' from the lack of nicotine - some chamomille or lavender EO might help calm your nerves. If you feel you are wavering in your resolve - try sniffing some cedarwood.

As to your post-smoking cough - the best thing you can do is put a few drops of eucalyptus EO into a bowl of kettle-hot water; drape a towel over your head and 'tent yourself' over the bowl of eucalyptus water and breathe deep. You might want to shut your eyes - and do it as long as you can. You will cough up a bunch of crap - but that crap needs to be expelled from your lungs. After you've done that a few times - your lungs should be a lot clearer.

My auntie in NM has COPD & asthma - and used to get very bad bronchitis at least once a year. I blended her a synergy of Eucalyptus & Frankinsence EO's (she just takes big sniffs of it about twice a day) and she swears it has saved her from having any of that for the past three years.

Best of luck in beginning on your new healthier path!

Lucky we have Jupiter (the planet of 'Big Luck")

2009-08-03T21:16:00.003-04:00

Astronomers Look for Clues in the Wake of the Jupiter Collision

That's just our solar system's big guy, Jupiter, doing its job--using it's huge gravitational field to attract foreign bodies to itself, and AWAY from Earth.

Interesting how this happens - especially since in astrology Jupiter traditionally been called the "greater benefic." In traditional astrology, everything Jupiter touched was blessed with his beneficial presence... and so it's rather interesting that modern day astronomy appears to be giving a grudging nod to Jupiter's traditional astrological role and reputation among the other planets. Apparently... large gaseous planets, by virtue of their size and composition, tend to attract comets and asteroids to themselves and away from the smaller planets. The larger planets in solar systems (such as Jupiter) thus protect the smaller, more vulnerable planets (such as Earth) from taking these large hits by comets and asteroids.

Luckily for us, the big planets do act as "shields" in this way. Way to go, Jupiter!

Borage (Borago officinalis) - the herb of Gladness - the oil of Healing

2009-07-27T16:51:00.004-04:00

Borage oil is one of my favorite oils - and it is not an essential oil. Borage oil is a carrier oil, produced by pressing the seeds of the Borage plant. This oil is desired as an excellent source of gamma-linolenic acid (GLA, 18:3, cis 6,9,12-octadecatrienoic acid), for which borage is the highest known plant-based source (between 26-38%) and in addition to GLA contains the fatty acids palmitic acid (10-11%), stearic acid (3.5-4.5%), oleic acid (16-20%), linoleic acid (35-38%), eicosenoic acid (3.5-5.5%), erucic acid (1.5-3.5%), and nervonic acid (1.5%).

Borage oil has many wonderful properties. It is used for regulation of metabolism and the hormonal system, and consider it to be a good remedy for PMS and menopause symptoms such as the hot flash. I personally have taken it for several years - since entering into premenopause - and have not suffered from hot flashes. I have recommended Borage Oil to numerous other women dealing with hot flashes, and all who took this oil reported that the hot flashes stopped after about taking this oil for a couple of weeks.

Additionally, Boragae oil is used medicinally as an anti-inflammatory, for treating arthritis, as well as certain skin conditions (e.g. atopic dermatitis) and respiratory inflammation.

Topically, Borage Oil is incredibly healing. When a loved one was undergoing Interferon treatment and her skin was irritated and breaking down, I gave her some Borage oil to apply topically. She told me that the Borage oil was what kept her from going insane scratching. Another powerful demonstrations of the benefits to the skin of topically applied borage oil is a clinical study done on 48 infants suffering from severe infantile seborrhoic dermatitis, a common condition in infants known as "cradle cap." This condition is characterized by dry scales and crusts on the scalp, eyelids, face, armpits, breast and groin. The infants were treated twice daily with topically applied borage oil and the condition cleared within two weeks. Not only was there improvement in the areas where the borage oil was directly applied, but also in the areas where it was not. This result indicated that the borage oil was effectively absorbed through the skin and became available throughout the body as a source of gamma-linolenic acid for the biosynthesis of Prostaglandin 1. If the treatment was discontinued, the symptoms came back within 1 week. However, if the treatment was maintained until the infants became 7 months old and was then stopped, there was no relapse.

(The authors hypothesized that these infants were born with an immature D6D enzyme system and were unable to produce sufficient gamma-linolenic acid on their own, thus giving rise to the symptoms of "cradle cap". The borage oil treatment corrected the symptoms by supplying GLA until the infant's own enzyme system caught up.)

As an herb - Borage is interesting as well. Borage (which has a cucumber-like taste)is an excellent companion plant for tomatoes, squash and strawberries. The plant actually improves the flavor of tomatoes growing nearby. Borage has been used since early times in teas to relieve depression and reduce fevers. The flowers or leaves are helpful for relieving the symptoms of bronchitis, and also act as an anti-diarrheal remedy. Take a cupful 2-3 times per day.

Externally, Borage leaves can also be ground into a paste (add hot water or tea, and maybe a little oatmeal for consistency) and make a cooling and soothing remedy for sprains, swelling, and skin inflammations and irritations.

Finally, the beautiful blue Borage flowers (one of the few blue edible flowers) and leaves are the traditional decoration for gin-based summer cocktails, and may be set in ice cubes to garnish other drinks.

Aromatherapy in cars - not so new

2009-07-27T16:29:00.004-04:00

But in this economy, it is a good marketing stategy to promote it.

Nissan Forest air-con utilizes aromatherapy, 'natural' breezes to reduce fatigue

...
Aroma
Taking a hint from the pleasant effect of forest air on people, Nissan studied the effects of aromas on human mental activity. The resulting Forest AC system intermittently and alternately furnishes two unique aromas, borneol*1 and leaf alcohol*2, to alleviate boredom and stimulate the driver's brain. Borneol combines a compound made from fragrant Kapur wood, lavender and other essential oils to promote calm and focus, while leaf alcohol is found in most plants and is thought to have a calming effect and reduce fatigue. The system utilizes a special interchangeable aroma cartridge (with a one-year life) to produce the forest effect.

Development of the Forest AC was based on results of a joint Nissan research study with Professor Kikunori Shinohara of the Tokyo University of Science, Suwa, Japan. "The relaxed state," said Professor Shinohara, "is one in which the person calms down from external conditions or the consequences of what he or she has done and achieves mental acuity, resulting in good work." Test subjects simultaneously exposed to these aromas and controlled ventilation simulating a natural breeze exhibited changes in cerebral blood flow. This, Shinohara says, can create the relaxed state of a person sitting for calligraphy or a tea ceremony - alert and focused, yet with tension relieved...

Hmmm, that sounds like it would be good. I have a blend DH loves - of Frankincense and Spruce Fir EO's - and I think I might just give him some for his car now.

I've travelled for years with a clay angel diffuser in my car, and just a drop of my 'Spicy Citrus' synergy (a blend of CO2 Ginger EO with Orange, Grapefruit, Lime & Lemon EO's)really cleans & spices up the air in the car. On longer trips, we always diffuse the Peppermint EO to help keep us awake and avoid car sickness.

Personally - I would go easy on the Lavender EO in the car - don't want to get too relaxed. Heh ;-)

Happy Birthday Leos!

2009-07-22T14:46:00.005-04:00

Well, as I like to say, sun sign astrology can be helpful, but to really know what is going on with a person, you need to cast their chart. However, it is a good start to know the general traits and tendencies of a sign - and with Leo the sun in in the sign it rules, so it is hard to mistake a Leo sun sign. It shines out. Heh.

Leo is the fifth Sign of the Zodiac, and it's ruler is the Sun. These folks are impossible to miss, since they love being center stage. Making an impression is Job One for Leos, and when you consider their personal magnetism, you see the job is quite easy - people are drawn to their natural warmth (Leo is a fire sign). Leos are an ambitious lot, and their strength of purpose allows them to accomplish a great deal. The fact that these folks are also creative makes their endeavors fun for them and everyone else. It's quite common to see a Leo on stage or in Hollywood, since these folks never shy away from the limelight. They are also supremely talented and have a flair for the dramatic. The fifth house is the house of creativity, love & children - and Leos take great pride and are very protective of their home & all of their 'babies'.

It's the Lion which symbolizes Leos, and the king (or queen) of the jungle is a most appropriate mascot, since these folks consider themselves the rulers of their universe (and the Zodiac at that). Strong with big hearts, Leos are very loyal to their family, friends & followers - and demand total loyality back. Like Lions, Leos tend to be dignified and strong, and it is this sense of their power which allows them to get things done. A Leo on your team is a good thing, since Lions are eager to see their projects through to completion. Putting these folks at the helm is a good thing, too, since the Leo-born are natural leaders. They may ruffle a few feathers along the way, however, since they can also be overbearing and somewhat autocratic. This may be in keeping with the Fixed Quality assigned to this Sign -- Lions are indeed opinionated and set in their ways. That said, they are well organized, idealistic and have a knack for inspiring others. Leos are very protective of their 'pride' and will fight to the death to protect all who are lucky enough to be loved by a Leo.

Solar Eclipse today

2009-07-22T11:32:00.004-04:00

Asia watches long solar eclipse

What does this solar eclipse @ 29 degrees Cancer represent? First off, it will have a very big impact on those who have their moon, sun or ascendant placement close to the degree of the eclipse.

All eclipses shut something down, taking away elements of our lives no longer true for us. Cancer is ruled by the moon, and is the sign of home, mother, family, and intimate feelings. So a form of our personal past or how we define our needs will end, with the void sure to attract new forms of expressing this energy. Solar eclipses occur with the New Moon - and this is an excellent time to give up old habits that have emotionally tied us down and start positive new ones.

Tea Tree oil (Melaleuca alternifolia)

2009-07-21T08:31:00.003-04:00

You are starting to see Tea Tree essential oil in many products these days, because it has won a reputation as a 'cure all' because of its powerful antifungal, antiviral and antibacterial properties. It can be used ‘neat’(without dilution) for athlete's foot, nail viruses and other fungal infections. I also use it in acne remedies; it is good for all skin infections. When fighting off a cold or flu, I massage tea tree oil (diluted to 10%) on my sternum to stimulate the thymus and enhance my immune system.

You can use it as well in a diffuser to combat the flu and other viral infections (it’s in my ‘Germ Free Synergy’). It is often recommended as the remedy for a vaginal candida infection. (I would most assuredly combine the tea tree EO with lavender EO and dilute the blend to 10% for that!)

Now the smell of Tea Tree – well, let’s call it "robust" because it is a definitive, in your face sort of oil. At first I did not like it at all, but I've come to respect its assertive, medicinal strength. A MUST HAVE for your essential oil first aid kit!

Here is some clinical information from the American Society for Microbiology:

Melaleuca alternifolia (Tea Tree) Oil: a Review of Antimicrobial and Other Medicinal Properties

...Complementary and alternative medicines such as tea tree (melaleuca) oil have become increasingly popular in recent decades. This essential oil has been used for almost 100 years in Australia but is now available worldwide both as neat oil and as an active component in an array of products. The primary uses of tea tree oil have historically capitalized on the antiseptic and anti-inflammatory actions of the oil. This review summarizes recent developments in our understanding of the antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory activities of the oil and its components, as well as clinical efficacy...

and

...Of all of the properties claimed for TTO, its antimicrobial activity has received the most attention. The earliest reported use of the M. alternifolia plant that presumably exploited this property was the traditional use by the Bundjalung Aborigines of northern New South Wales. Crushed leaves of "tea trees" were inhaled to treat coughs and colds or were sprinkled on wounds, after which a poultice was applied (135). In addition, tea tree leaves were soaked to make an infusion to treat sore throats or skin ailments (101, 135). The oral history of Australian Aborigines also tells of healing lakes, which were lagoons into which M. alternifolia leaves had fallen and decayed over time (3). Use of the oil itself, as opposed to the unextracted plant material, did not become common practice until Penfold published the first reports of its antimicrobial activity in a series of papers in the 1920s and 1930s. In evaluating the antimicrobial activity of M. alternifolia oil and other oils, he made comparisons with the disinfectant carbolic acid or phenol, the gold standard of the day, in a test known as the Rideal-Walker (RW) coefficient. The activity of TTO was compared directly with that of phenol and rated as 11 times more active (121)...

...contemporary data clearly show that the broad-spectrum activity of TTO includes antibacterial, antifungal, antiviral, and antiprotozoal activities....

And

A paradigm shift in the treatment of infectious diseases is necessary to prevent antibiotics becoming obsolete, and where appropriate, alternatives to antibiotics ought to be considered. There are already several nonantibiotic approaches to the treatment and prevention of infection, including probiotics, phages, and phytomedicines. Alternative therapies are viewed favorably by many patients because they are often not being helped by conventional therapy and they believe there are fewer detrimental side effects. In addition, many report significant improvement while taking complementary and alternative medicines. Unfortunately, the medical profession has been slow to embrace these therapies, and good scientific data are still scarce. However, as we approach the "postantibiotic era" the situation is changing. A wealth of in vitro data now supports the long-held beliefs that TTO has antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties.

About Nicholas Culpeper...

2009-07-11T09:06:00.002-04:00

"Gather all Leaves in the hour of that Planet that governs them." ~ Nicholas Culpeper

Nicholas Culpeper, born October 18,1616 – died January 10, 1654, was an English botanist, herbalist, physician, and astrologer. His published books, The English Physitian (1652) and the Complete Herbal (1653), contain a rich store of pharmaceutical and herbal knowledge. (Please click on the links provided to have access to both of his works online.)

Per wikipedia:

...Culpeper spent the greater part of his life in the English outdoors cataloguing hundreds of medicinal herbs. He criticized what he considered the unnatural methods of his contemporaries, writing: "This not being pleasing, and less profitable to me, I consulted with my two brothers, DR. REASON and DR. EXPERIENCE, and took a voyage to visit my mother NATURE, by whose advice, together with the help of Dr. DILIGENCE, I at last obtained my desire; and, being warned by MR. HONESTY, a stranger in our days, to publish it to the world, I have done it."[1]...

Culpeper was the son of Nicholas Culpeper (Senior), a clergyman. He studied at Cambridge, and afterwards became apprenticed to an apothecary. After seven years his master absconded with the money paid for the indenture, and soon after this, Culpeper's mother died of breast cancer.[2] Culpeper married the daughter of a wealthy merchant, which allowed him to set up a pharmacy in the halfway house in Spitalfields, London, outside the authority of the City of London at a time when medical facilities in London were at breaking point. Arguing that "no man deserved to starve to pay an insulting, insolent physician", and obtaining his herbal supplies from the nearby countryside, Culpeper was able to provide his services for free. This, and a willingness to examine patients in person rather than simply examining their urine (in his opinion, "as much piss as the Thames might hold" did not help in diagnosis), Culpeper was extremely active, sometimes seeing as many as forty people in one morning. Using a combination of experience and astrology, Culpeper devoted himself to using herbals to treat the illnesses of his patients.

...Culpeper attempted to make medical treatments more accessible to layperson by educating them about maintaining their health. Ultimately his ambition was to reform the system of medicine by questioning traditional methods and knowledge and exploring new solutions for ill health. The systematization of the use of herbals by Culpeper was a key development in the evolution of modern pharmaceuticals, most of which originally had herbal origins.[3]

Culpeper's emphasis on reason rather than tradition is reflected in the introduction to his Complete Herbal, though his definition of reason was not that different from the Romantic philosophies of the era presenting nature as refuge. Culpepper paired the plants and diseases with planetary influences, countering illnesses with nostroms that were paired with an opposing planetary influence....

For more info & a natal chart of Nicholas Culpeper - please check out Astro.com's post about him.

Uh oh...dark days ahead?

2009-07-09T18:48:00.002-04:00

With a series of six triple eclipses starting July, astrologers predict tumultous times

The world will witness a series of triple eclipses, beginning next month. And astrologers are divided on this rare astronomical event's effects.

The first series of the triple eclipses will begin with a lunar eclipse on July 7, followed by a solar eclipse on July 22, and another lunar eclipse on August 7. Six more such triple eclipses will occur over the next decade, until 2020....

Astrologer couple, Dr D K Hari and Dr Hema Hari, has authored a book on the triple eclipses. According to them, triple eclipse series in the past have coincided with tumultuous times on earth. The first recorded triple eclipse in 3067 BCE (Before Common Era) coincided with the Kurukshetra war.

The destruction of the city of Dwaraka also coincided with another set of triple eclipse in 3031 BCE.

More recently, in the first half of the 20th century, there were a series of triple eclipses between 1910 and 1945, which coincided with events like World Wars I and II, the Holocaust and the nuclear bombings in Japan.

"There are positive effects of the triple eclipse as well," said Hari...All bad things that happen are for the good and the ultimate effect of the triple eclipses will be positive."

Let's hope so. I believe everything happens for a reason, and radical change - while very upsetting at the time - can allow for old, outdated things to be removed so newer, more appropriate things can take their place.

What are the meanings of the eclipses in astrology? Well, very simply, a solar eclipse is actually a very special New Moon (where the Moon is totally dark). It is a powerful time to start new projects. Things that are begun between the eclipse and the next Full Moon (about 2 weeks), seeds we plant, projects we undertake, contacts we make, and intentions we set, take on added significance 6 months down the road.

Likewise, a Lunar eclipse is a very special Full Moon. Decisions we make, things we let go of, and things we finish during this waning cycle have significance in the future. It is an excellent time to give up an bad habits, like smoking.

A series of eclipses signifies great changes on both the personal and community levels - and how it impacts you depends on the planet placement in your natal chart.

The first and most potent cause of such events lies in the conjunctions of the Sun and Moon at eclipse and the movements of the stars at the time - Ptolemy

Time to break out the 'Germ-Free' oil synergy!

2009-07-08T14:11:00.001-04:00

By now I'm sure all of you have heard of the 'Swine Flu' H1N1 pandemic. Please check out the CDC's recommendations to protect yourself against this virus.

One natural way to help protect your family this flu season is to diffuse 'Germ Free' synergy oil in your home. This is a wonderful, warm, spicy blend that I developed to help clean the air of nasty bugs and germs that cause colds and flu. Certain essential oils have been proven to be highly antibacterial and antiviral in the air as well as on contact(please see this article: Antiviral and Antimicrobial Properties of Essential Oils) and these were the ones I wanted to diffuse to clean the air of my busy home!

Another fact is that while each of these oils are highly effective germ killers – their overall effectiveness increases with them being used together as a synergy. Good stuff! For my 'Germ Free' synergy oil I blend the clean, fresh scent of Orange, Tea Tree, Oregano (highly antiviral essential oil), Pine, Lemon Eucalyptus (anti-fungal), and the powerful germ killing, yet wonderfully spicy and warm - Cinnamon and Clove essential oils.

Please note – this is a pure essential oil blend - DO NOT use this blend on the skin, because it could irritate and sensitize you. It is designed for the diffuser, or to be diluted into a room and countertop spray (using alcohol & water). I have also used a couple of drops of 'Germ Free' on a bandana when in crowd or on a plane traveling - the scent is warm and comforting, especially if someone is sneezing or coughing near you!

If you are interested in obtaining a bottle or two of my 'Germ Free' synergy blend, please contact me via email: celtic.selky@gmail.com or via phone:407-595-7036.

Zen thought for the day

2009-07-01T15:39:00.001-04:00

"Nothing is more memorable than a smell. One scent can be unexpected, momentary and fleeting, yet conjure up a childhood summer beside a lake in the mountains..."
~ Diane Ackerman

Aromatherapy for dogs

2009-06-29T21:31:00.003-04:00

Uh oh...

2009-06-27T09:33:00.001-04:00

Sri Lanka astrologer is arrested

The authorities in Sri Lanka have arrested a popular astrologer who predicted that the president will be ejected from office, police say.

Chandrasiri Bandara announced last week that the government would flounder in September and October because of political and economic problems.

The opposition have condemned the arrest and warned that the country is heading towards a dictatorship.

Astrology is taken seriously by numerous Sri Lankan politicians.

Inauspicious

Police told the AP news agency that Mr Bandara told an opposition meeting that the prime minister would take over as president on 9 September and the opposition leader would become prime minister.

He was arrested on Wednesday night to investigate the basis of his prediction, police spokesman Ranjith Gunasekera said.

Mr Bandara made his forecast despite the president's high approval ratings following the defeat of Tamil Tigers rebels in May, bringing an end to nearly 26 years of civil war.

"The CID (Criminal Investigations Department) is questioning the astrologer," Mr Gunasekara said.

President Rajapaksa takes astrological predictions seriously
The astrologer predicted that a planetary change on 8 October will be inauspicious for parliament and the government may not be able to contain rising living costs - a forecast which correspondents say has already been made by private economists.

"The crime which Chandrasiri Bandara committed was publishing an astrological column which was adverse to the government," said opposition United National Party General Secretary Tissa Attanayake.

So convinced are Sri Lankan politicians over the accuracy of astrology that many have their own personal seers who decide the auspicious times to launch any new initiative.

President Rajapaksa has declared himself to be a believer, telling foreign reporters earlier this year that he has often consulted a favoured astrologer for advice on what time to make speeches or to depart for trips.

Mr Bandara - who has a weekly television show and writes controversial political columns for a pro-opposition newspaper - is one of the most popular astrologers in the country.

Media rights groups have complained of continued efforts by the government to stifle freedom of speech despite the end of the war...

Zen thought for the day

2009-06-27T01:14:00.002-04:00

Water in the ravine flows
Down to the world of men,
Clouds from the scarps
Pass on to other mountains.
Listen a while to the
Hidden birds chattering,
As though they're extolling
The idleness of this
Countryside monk.

~ Jakushitsu Genko (1290-1367)

Ah...summertime

2009-06-24T17:44:00.002-04:00

"Deep summer is when laziness finds respectability."
- Sam Keen

Today's quote

2009-03-12T10:04:00.002-04:00

Don't bite my finger; look where I am pointing.

~ Warren McCullogh, neurophysiologist, 1899-1969.

Thought for the day

2009-03-10T10:27:00.001-04:00

The perfume of sandalwood, the scent of rose & jasmine, travel only as far as the wind.
But the fragrance of goodness travels with us through all the worlds.
Like the garlands woven from a heap of flowers, fashion your life as a garland of beautiful deeds. ~ The Buddha

About Fear

2009-03-09T12:21:00.001-04:00

“How would you feel if you had no fear? Feel like that. How would you behave toward other people if you realized their powerlessness to hurt you? Behave like that. How would your react to so-called misfortune if you saw its inability to bother you? React like that. How would you think toward yourself if you knew you were really all right? Think like that.”

~ Vernon Howard
from Mystic Path to Cosmic Power (a great book!)

Zen thought for the day

2009-03-08T09:01:00.001-04:00

“An average man is too concerned with liking people or with being liked himself. A warrior likes, that’s all. He likes whatever or whomever he wants, for the hell of it.”

~ Carlos Castaneda
20th century mystic and Toltec warrior
from A Separate Reality

Happy Birthday Madtown!

2009-03-04T09:04:00.004-05:00

This is one of my favorite pictures of her - when she was 2. She's a big girl now.

Hopefully she'll come for a long visit this summer. She loves to swim - but of course - she's a Pisces.

Heh. 31% isn't bad

2009-02-03T16:08:00.002-05:00

That's the percent of Americans that believe in Astrology...

I do personal charts. If you would like one, email me at celtic.selky@gmail.com

Thanks!

Uh oh, looks like 6 more weeks of winter...

2009-02-02T11:50:00.003-05:00

Happy Groundhog Day!!

PUNXSUTAWNEY, Pa. — The world's most famous groundhog saw his shadow this morning, predicting this already long winter will last for six more weeks.

Well, sorry for those of you in the northern states.

Perhaps something that will warm you up, bring cheer and kill germs at the same time would be diffusing some spice & orange essential oils. I love to diffuse a combo of cinnamon, clove, and orange essential oils - and they are also noted for their antiseptic qualities of airborne germs. And this time of year - we need to keep on top of the nasty cold/flu viruses. I do blend up a super-potient synergy of essential oils that I call 'Germ-Free'. To the clove, cinnamon & orange oils I add: oregano, eucalyptus, teatree, and lemon. There are many who swear by it for keeping colds away. It is a pleasant scent in the air - but should never be used on the skin. Way too strong & sensitizing!

Until spring arrives, here is a fuuny picture:

Good bye, Banko

2009-01-09T14:49:00.008-05:00

Banko was an internet friend that I met online, and we shared interests in Astrology and in Carl Jung's theories, so we connected. I was stunned and greatly saddened to hear that Banko died on Christmas night, from injuries he received when his house burned down due to an electrical fire in the wall of his house - the house burned down to the ground in an hour.

Since Banko was so open about much of his life and was a sage and a teacher - I don't think he would mind if I posted and discussed how the transiting planets impacted his natal chart.

When I studied the chart, I noticed that the Uranus in Pisces/Saturn in Virgo opposition that has been impacting us all was now in a T-square with the Moon in Sagittarius, forming a T-Square. A T-Square is a closed negative aspect formation - with 2 planets in opposition to each other and both planets are square to a third. This usually denotes drama - especially with the emotional Moon involved.

We all have been dealing with the opposition of Uranus, the planet of abrupt and radical changes, striving for balance against Saturn, the Karmic Task-Master. Uranus also rules electricity - and the Ancients have named Saturn the Great Malific - due to it's association with death. So we have the balancing act of the two heavy weights (long term changes since these are outer planets) - Uranus & Saturn - and we get an intense short burst of negative emotional energy from the fast moving moon. Yep, drama for sure.

Now we see how this interacts with Banko's natal chart. His natal Uranus is also square the transiting Uranus/Saturn - meaning his Uranus makes this now a Grand Square for him - and this is a most powerful negative closed aspect formation. He had Uranus square Uranus - a lot of negative electrical energy. Interestingly, he had Hygenia conjunct his natal Uranus - and Hygenia represent health issues. Also - Saturn is associated with structures - like houses. And the Moon was in a fire sign as well.

In addition to this Grand Square - transiting Mars was conjunct with Pluto & the Sun - a powerful, transformational energy. Mars is associated with violence, and Pluto is associated with transformations - including from life to death. These three plantets were conjuct Banko's moon - he was having powerful emotions...

One very nice thing to point out - transiting Venus was conjunct his Natal Venus in Aquarius.

Banko found his joy - his Sofia.

Zen thought

2009-01-07T20:59:00.002-05:00

Listen,
all creeping things -
the bell of transience.

~ Issa

I always like these smell articles

2009-01-06T15:55:00.002-05:00

Love skews your sense of smell

I smell - ROSES...

When you're in love, everything seems different – and that includes your sense of smell. Women who are deeply in love struggle to recognise the body odour of male friends, but their ability to distinguish their partner's smell is unaffected.

Body odours are known to play a role in human sexual attraction. But how does falling in love affect our perception and processing of these smells?

To find out, Johan Lundström and Marilyn Jones-Gotman of McGill University in Montreal, Canada, asked a group of 20 young women with boyfriends to fill in a Passionate Love Scale questionnaire (pdf format) to determine just how much in love they were. Meanwhile, the women's partners and male and female friends slept for a seven nights in a cotton T-shirt with pads sewn into the underarms to soak up their sweat.

In a series of trials, each woman was asked to pick out their lover's or a friend's T-shirt from three garments, two of which had been worn by strangers. The women's scores on the Passionate Love Scale made no difference to their ability to recognise a lover's shirt, or that worn by a female friend. But those who were more deeply in love were less good at distinguishing a male friend's odour from those of strangers.

The deflection theory
This backs a theory of romantic attraction known as "deflection", which argues that being in love with someone entails a reduction in the amount of attention we give to other potential suitors.

But different mechanisms may be at play with the other senses. Previous brain imaging work has suggested lovers do focus more attention on each other, judging from their reactions to pictures of each other as opposed to those of friends of the opposite sex.

Lundström, now at the Monell Chemical Senses Center in Philadelphia, next plans to investigate what happens in lovers' brains as they perceive the odours of their partners, friends and strangers. "I'm not really a love guru," he admits. "The main focus of the project is to look at how the brain processes odours."

"It's an interesting starting point for more work," agrees Claus Wedekind of the University of Lausanne in Switzerland, who ran a pioneering study of body odour and human attraction back in 1995.

Journal reference: Hormones and Behavior (DOI: 10.1016/j.yhbeh.2008.11.009)

The Feast of the Epithany - my favorite

2009-01-06T11:13:00.004-05:00

“Epiphany: a sudden, intuitive perception of or insight into the reality or essential meaning…” (Webster’s New Universal Unabridged Dictionary). The word stems from Greek for "to manifest" or "to show". So the Feast of the Epiphany celebrates the the revelation of God in human form in the person of Jesus Christ - and the Magi were the ones who through their knowledge of the stars realized that the signs in the sky pointed to the birth of a Divine King.

In the gospels, the story of the Magi is found only in Matthew, ch 2:

"Now when Jesus was born in Bethlehem of Judaea in the days of Herod the king, behold, there came wise men from the east to Jerusalem, saying, where is he that is born King of the Jews? For we have seen his star in the east, and are come to worship him."

Herod sent the wise men to Bethlehem, the place which the priests said had been predicted by the prophet:

"and, lo, the star, which they saw in the east, went before them, till it came and stood over where the young child was. When they saw the star, they rejoiced with exceeding great joy. And when they were come into the house, they saw the young child with Mary the mother, and fell down and worshipped him: and when they had opened their treasures, they presented unto him gifts; gold, and frankincense, and myrrh. And being warned of God in a dream that they should not return to Herod, they departed into their own country another way."

The Magi - or Astrologers

From the Jewish historian Josephus, the Greek historian Herodotus, and the writings of Strabo, a picture of the people called the magi appears. The magi first appear in history in about the 7th century B.C. in the Median empire (Herodotus I, ci). At the time of the birth of Jesus they were an ancient priestly caste dwelling within the Parthian empire that practiced astrology. They were adept at interpreting dreams. Also at the time just prior to the birth of our Lord, the magi formed the upper house of the council of the Megistanes, whose duties included the election of the king of the Parthian empire (Strabo, XI, ix, 3). Thus, the magi at this time were very possibly "king makers." (Sources: D. W. Jayne, "Magi," The Zondervan Pictorial Encyclopedia of the Bible, vol. 4:31-34; Josephus, Antiquities of the Jews and The Jewish War; Herodotus, The History of Herodotus; A. Holmstead, History of the Persian Empire).

Magi were priests, serving an ancient priesthood, astrologers, interpreters of dreams, and government officials who had the authority to elect the Parthian king. They were 'king-makers' but not kings. In the context of the times, because they served these roles and had such amazing knowledge of mysteries as these, they were considered to be the scholars or 'Wise Men' of the day.

This is a day to look to our inner 'wise man' and seek our own epithany - and astrology can help!

Contentment

2009-01-03T00:01:00.001-05:00

Health or reputation: which is held dearer?
Health or possessions: which has more worth?
Profit or loss: which is more troublesome?

Great love incurs great expense,
And great riches incur great fear,
But contentment comes at no cost;
Who knows when to stop
Does not continue into danger,
And so may long endure.

~ TAO TE CHING - Chapter 44

Happy New Year!

2009-01-01T08:54:00.002-05:00

Hope 2009 is full of peace, prosperity, health & happiness for you - it WILL be full of life-changing transformations!

Molly's Astrology has put out some good astro-predictions for the month - but look what she says about Jupiter entering Aquarius (Jan. 5th):

The planet Jupiter enters the sign Aquarius on January 5, 2009, where he will stay until he enters Pisces in January 2010. Jupiter’s last journey through Aquarius was January 1997 – February 1998. Before that, February 1985 – February 1986, February 1973 – March 1974, March 1961 – March 1962. If you can find a common thread of similar events, you may be able to anticipate the kinds of energies you will be dealing with this time around. Of course, there are many other planets in the sky, many other factors to consider that are different now than in these other times.

Jupiter indicates where in your life growth is taking place. Jupiter is larger than life, optimistic, loves adventure and risk. He can be an accomplished gambler, weighing risk against reward, or a foolish spendthrift who presses his luck and loses it all at the track. Jupiter shows an urge to grow, adventure and expand your horizons. Sagittarius and Pisces natives are likely to respond very strongly, and likely very positively, to Jupiter’s movement into this new sign.

When Jupiter enters Aquarius, he is also coming out of Capricorn, a sign where his larger than life energy has to work within strict boundaries and rules. Now that we have firmly planted our moorings, we can use the traditions of the past as a springboard to jump forward into the future. Aquarius is a sign of freedom, reform, and innovation. Visionary and forward looking. This represents a spirit of reform that is hopeful and sociable, instilling a sense of social justice and fellowship. It benefits groups and communities, especially those with a humanitarian bent....If we think of Jupiter as growth, then we can predict that those areas of industry associated with Aquarius are due for a growth spurt. Those industries are technology, aeronautics, astrology, automobile manufacturers, energy (especially alternative energy), broadcasting, science and scientific research.

And Aquarius is also associated with music...

precognitive dreams

2008-12-19T13:35:00.001-05:00

I've only had a few precognitive dreams, but by far the clearest one I had was of a toddler with long curly brown hair running to me in a field. I had four sons and always wanted a daughter - so I thought it was just my longing for what I never had coming through in my dreams. Well, about 6 months later, unknown to me, my son who was in the Marines at the time, found out he was a father (they had dated briefly and she left the Marines) and went to see both his former girlfriend & the baby. There were problems where the girls were staying & DS called and asked if we could help. So we wired money to them and the three of them travelled across county & moved in with us. I had 48 hours notice that I was a new grandmother & that they were moving in with us - that was a shock, to say the least.

But it all worked out wonderfully. DS did a tour in Japan, and the girls stayed with us. We were so blessed to have that time with them. When he came back - they married and now have a second daughter.

This is a picture of my granddaughter - just as I dreamed of her:

Sexist man?

2008-11-24T10:46:00.005-05:00

Pretty good - but I prefer these sexy guys...

Good, eh?

Zen thought

2008-10-26T12:10:00.002-04:00

"I saw old Autumn in the misty morn
Stand, shadowless like Silence, listening
To Silence."
- Thomas Hood

This is an interesting post about the essential oils associated with Scorpio

2008-10-23T21:37:00.002-04:00

From Suzanne Bovenizer cmt, cst

Scorpios are perceptive and intuitive and thus make good healers (once they have embarked on their own self-healing process). You will find them comfortable being psychotherapists, counselors, psychics, sex therapists, hands-on therapists and body workers of all kinds. Because of the Scorpio’s ability to insightfully see deep within their patient/client, they can encourage the patient to go into their own dark scary psychological and emotional places without fear. They extend a strong sense of support and trust to the client, offering them the light to see into their own personal underworld. Essential oils that can assist the journey into this dark and deep inner world are frankincense, patchouli, elemi, neroli, galbanum, myrrh, juniper, cypress, sandalwood, benzoin, cedarwood and vetiver. These oils not only help the client, but also are great friends to the Scorpio, who loves traveling to the underworld and back, thanks to their ruling planet of Pluto.

I was just thinking of a blend with franincense - and benzoin. Actually - I was contenplating all these wood oils. Heh.

She goes on to say:

Scorpios have a highly developed sense of sensuality and enjoy exploring sexual pleasure with all their senses, although the challenge for the Scorpio is to ground the experience rather than go into sexual overdrive. They need to find a way to accept their vulnerability and open their hearts rather than surrender to the purely physical eroticism of sex. Oils that support and ground sexual awareness and sensual pleasure are rose, neroli, jasmine, ylang ylang, geranium, chamomile, palmarosa, melissa, rosewood, patchouli, lavender and angelica, and thus resonate in the Scorpion frequency. Those born in Scorpio, being in a water sign, love baths in sensual salubrious settings. Adding essential oils to the bath water or to massage oils and body creams can bring a Scorpio into ecstatic realms of heart-felt pleasure. This is their playing ground and a candle lit bathroom, warm scented water, delicate music, delicious wine or chocolate and someone their to caress their body will melt any Scorpio’s heart.

And I was thinking of blending the frankincense with rose, ylang ylang, chamomile, lavender & melissa - to ground and calm the heart. Calm the passion & excitement somewhat.

Will Nov. 5th ever come?

Heh.

Happy Birthday Scorpios!

2008-10-23T21:32:00.002-04:00

The Sun in mysterious Scorpio invites you to delve into the Underworld and investigate what's hidden beneath the surface of everyday life. The Scorpion's goal is transformation at the deepest level, by bringing light to shadows and secrets and cutting through external appearances to uncover the core of truth.

Like the snake -- one of the animals associated with Scorpio -- this sign teaches that shedding the old is sometimes necessary for new growth, and that death is an essential part of life. As autumn starts to fade into winter (at least in the Northern Hemisphere), days grow darker and signs of death and decay abound in the natural world, reminding us of our own mortality.

It's not a coincidence that Halloween, All Saints Day and Day of the Dead happen during the Scorpio season. The veil between material reality and the realm of spirits -- the visible and invisible worlds -- is said to grow thin, heightening our ability to access magic and connect with those who have passed.

Find out where you're being called to look beneath the surface, release the old and transform at a deep level by looking up your zodiac sign below.

Hunter's Moon - October 14th

2008-10-14T22:30:00.002-04:00

Hunter's Moon - in Aries. Conjunct my natal moon - and I'm howling tonight! :-)

It's a full Moon with the potential to instill a sense of awe and wonder, of living in times where we will essentially be creating the world anew - especially with Uranus & Saturn in opposition. The Aries spirit of the full Moon helps us believe in new beginnings, even as we're grieving the loss of the old.

The King is dead. All hail the King.

More about Uranus in opposition to Saturn

2008-10-12T09:36:00.005-04:00

Molly's Astrology has an interesting article that makes a couple of good points:

Saturn opposite Uranus happens every 40 years or so. It is a culmination of a cycle that begins when Saturn conjoins Uranus. This year’s opposition is the culmination of the Saturn Uranus cycle that began in 1988. Last time we saw Saturn opposite Uranus was in the mid 1960s.

Think what was happening in 1988 - in 1987 we had 'Black Monday' the Wall Street market crash. Think Gordon Gekko: Greed is Good. The end of Ronald Reagan's term in office - Iran/Iraq War - USSR/Afganistan War - Iran/Contra affair....think how much these memes are coming back these days...

Molly expands on what I posted earlier:

Saturn and Uranus are mortal enemies in mythology. They aren’t great together in astrology either. Their meeting signals tension and irritability, technology problems, and folks who are offbeat or out of step. Issues and problems that have been festering beneath the surface for a while are emerging in a way that probably shouldn’t surprise us, but it does. The rules of the game are changing, folks.

Saturn in Virgo affects our guts and digestive systems. Uranus in Pisces amps up the nervous energy in and around us, affecting our endocrine balance and sleep patterns. According to Ebertin in Combination of Stellar Influences, Saturn with Uranus brings “inhibitions of rhythm.”1

These inhibitions of rhythm kick us out of step on many levels— health, relationships, work. Disruptions in our routines. And we often experience electrical disturbances or technology problems when Uranus is under stress. Uranus energy brings change through instability. There are often sudden and unexpected events that shake our foundations and force us to look at things in a new way. This is the blessing of it. When old structures and connections are broken, we have the opportunity to update with something new and better.

I know I have been having sleep issues, and have switched to a very simple diet: rice, beans, veggies & fruit diet...it was time for this change. We all need to focus on what we need to do for ourselves to be healthy and simplify. How much extra 'stuff' do we get that just clutters and causes additional stress? Uranus comes in like a wild-eyed revolutionary and breaks things up - so that we HAVE to start anew. Saturn, the demanding Karmic taskmaster, gives us the foundations to begin building again. This process can be very disturbing and upsetting - but we can start new, fresh - and build something even better than what was destroyed.

Again, from Molly:

What I have been noticing most with Saturn in Virgo and Uranus in Pisces is fear. It has come up a lot in my work with clients. Fear can get you all tied up in knots so that you aren’t thinking straight. Then you make bad decisions, which have bad consequences, which makes you more fearful. It’s a vicious cycle. If this sounds like you, here’s my advice— you need to realize that the fear is the #1 problem. The fear itself is, in all likelihood a bigger problem than the object of your fear. Take care of the fear first. This is not so hard if you take it one step at a time. Remember to breathe deeply, remember to eat well, take care of your body and your mind. Nourish, nourish, nourish. Remember that what you focus on gets bigger. And you are in control of your focus. Don’t focus on how and where you are powerless. Focus on your options for solving the problem or making it through the hard times. And keep breathing!

Good advice.

Some aromatherapy tips for dealing with stress

2008-10-10T22:49:00.002-04:00

Like a lot of people, the current world and political situation has me pretty much stressed out. Being the Aries moon that I am - I get angry and want to fight - but that isn't really very helpful or healthy. So what I am doing to calm myself is to avoid watching the news & staying out of political debates (as much as I love to engage in them) and listen to soothing music, meditate more, and I have blended a synergy of essential oils - rose, melissa, chamomille, marjoram, and frankinscense.

Very lovely - very calming. And all these oils have hypotensive properties - which is a big plus these days.

Astrology is about cycles

2008-10-10T22:43:00.001-04:00

There will be good times - there will be bad times. There is always an endless cycle.

To everything there is a season,
a time for every purpose under the sun.
A time to be born and a time to die;
a time to plant and a time to pluck up that which is planted;
a time to kill and a time to heal ...
a time to weep and a time to laugh;
a time to mourn and a time to dance ...
a time to embrace and a time to refrain from embracing;
a time to lose and a time to seek;
a time to rend and a time to sew;
a time to keep silent and a time to speak;
a time to love and a time to hate;
a time for war and a time for peace.

ecclesiastes 3:1-8

So What the Heck is going on with the Stars?

2008-10-10T22:10:00.002-04:00

There is a major aspect that has been impacting us - Saturn in Virgo in opposition to Uranus in Pisces.

Saturn represents form, responsibility, duty - it's considered a malefic (bad planet) and the Karmic taskmaster. Virgo is an Earth sign - noted for their attention to detail and need for security.

Uranus represents radical, unexpected change - like revolution - but these changes can lead to new beginnings. You have to break some eggs to get an omlet sort of deal. In Pisces - emotional, visionary - and deception are some traits of this water sign.

Both Pisces & Virgo are mutable signs - indicating that they can change with not a lot of pressure...(doesn't that sound like the stock market....) This opposition can represent the need to balance new wild change and revolution (Uranus) against the old way things were expected to be responsibly done (Saturn).

We're not done yet. Uranus is retrograde - meaning that it is moving 'backwards' - and will have another direct hit with Saturn next month.

From another astrologer:

Last month we pointed out, both here and in our Matrix monthly, that we are returning to a period with a bowl chart in the sky (edged by Saturn and Uranus, with all planets inside them) for half the month, and a lunar bucket the other half, the first time since 2001. When the Moon is inside the bowl, we return to Saturn-led bowl chart order, and when the Moon is outside of the bowl, our satellite becomes the wildly emotional handle of a bucket chart, and everybody gets crazy. September proved to be uncannily on time, as Lehman Brothers’ bankruptcy was announced just when the Moon passed Uranus (surprise!) on 9/14 and broke into the open. All hell broke loose and the world economy went nuts for two weeks until the Moon finished her crazy trek and tucked herself back into the bowl with the conjunction to Saturn on 9/28 and the accompanying massive bail-out bill – the first version of which itself failed, from being introduced on a terminally old Moon, but will eventually in some form put things temporarily back on firmer footing.

The Moon, associated with mass behavior (hysterical or otherwise) is very much the focus as we move back into another similar round in October. The weekend of October 11-12 opens up the next round (two weeks of various panicky forms of “October surprise”), which then closes with the weekend of October 25-26, as again only one-half of the sky is inhabited until after the election. As we also pointed out, Pluto headed for its momentous sign change and the Saturn-Uranus opposition (the edges of the bowl) becoming exact on U.S. election day November 4 also give an extra feeling of ground-swell change, within which we all have little room to steer, the “following sea” of last month’s editorial.

Imagine yourself on a ship in heavy weather – when you’re on deck, it seems like chaos (Moon outside the bowl) but when you go below it feels so much cozier and safer, but you know it’s really not. Go up for air again, if you’re getting a little seasick, and the whole experience repeats. Get used to it, because that will be the rhythm for the next few months and into mid-February, after which the Sun and inner planets begin to spread out of the bowl for a six-month hiatus, before it begins all over again. It’s the pumping rhythm of major change, whether it’s the kind you want to believe in or not…

Cusp of a New Moon

2008-09-28T17:19:00.004-04:00

Tomorrow is a new moon in Libra. Beginnings of new relationships. Excellent time to begin new habits. With all of the wild stuff going on with the financial meltdown, I thought I would take a look at the New Moon Chart in conjunction with the US natal chart. I found a couple of things very interesting:

The New Moon is just a few degrees from the US Ascendant & Saturn. These new beginings are going to be significant and have 'work, duty & responsibility' written all over them. I do believe the financial bail-out plan will be announced and it will bring people together to work towards resolving this major issue for the US and the world. Saturn is the karmic task-master, so there will be hard lessons to learn, and no easy out - but hard work. But if we work to resolve the underlying issues that caused this financial meltdown, we can be successful.

There are good indicators that this plan beginning on the new moon will be successful - the US's North Node (indicating it's destiny) is sextile (positively aspected) this Sun/Moon conjunction - all in Cardnal or initiating signs. This indicates there is a need to join with others to accomplish a goal. Teamwork. Easy and natural adjustments made by a group, family or association to changed circumstances. Issues of group leadership are handled without major crises or bad feelings. All positive things when you think of how partisan politics could result in failure for us all.

Let's all light a candle and send our best wishes that a wise and fair solution to this financial mess is found, and we learn from our past mistakes and don't repeat them.

BTW - here is an interesting article about 'cusps'...

Sarah Palin's Natal chart

2008-09-15T21:42:00.003-04:00

I based this chart on a rectified birth time by this astrologer:

A chart of a queen...

Sarah Palin - Female Chart
Feb 11 1964, 10:45 am, PST +8:00
Sandpoint ID, 48°N16'36'', 116°W33'08''
Geocentric Tropical Zodiac
Placidus Houses, True Node

BACKGROUND INFORMATION

BALANCE OF SIGNS
Scores: Aries 3; Taurus 0; Gemini 3; Cancer 0; Leo 0; Virgo 2; Libra 0; Scorpio 1; Sagittarius 0; Capricorn 0; Aquarius 14; Pisces 0
AQUARIUS STRONG - Sarah is a super Aquarius!
Humanitarian, innovative, group conscious, progressive, serving others. Can be rebellious, eccentric, aloof, emotionally superficial, overly extroverted.

BALANCE OF ELEMENTS
Scores: Fire 3; Earth 2; Air 17; Water 1
EARTH WEAK
You have difficulty coping with the realities of every day life. Practical daily chores seem beyond your capabilities, and you have difficulty concentrating on matters at hand.
AIR STRONG
You are objective and philosophical, preferring to view life from an intellectual perspective. Your rational mind will outweigh your feelings every time, as you consider the world of emotions to be irrational. You have a high sense of fairness, and a logical thought process. Your weakness lies in the fact that you view emotions in a disparaging light.WATER WEAK
You are out of kilter with your emotions. Crying or losing your cool in front of other people would be a horrifying thought, let alone action, for you. You often lack compassion for others in your human relationships, and need to learn to honor both your own and other people's feelings.

BALANCE OF MODES
Scores: Cardinal 3; Fixed 15; Mutable 5
CARDINAL WEAK
You prefer to follow in other people's footsteps rather than initiate actions. You can be relied on to come up with the goods as long as someone else has the initial ideas. Your survival mechanisms are weak.
FIXED STRONG
You do not enjoy change. You expect others to be reliable, like yourself.

BALANCE OF HOUSES
Scores: 1st 0; 2nd 0; 3rd 0; 4th 0; 5th 2; 6th 1; 7th 0; 8th 0; 9th 5; 10th 6; 11th 2; 12th 1
9TH STRONG
The Ninth House is about higher learning. It covers academic subjects, law, religion, publishing, foreign culture, sport, overseas travel and philosophy. Other exoteric and esoteric keywords include: Philosophy, religion, higher education, distant travel, cultural learning, publishing, the journey along the Path, the Ageless Wisdom, akashic records.
10TH STRONG
The Tenth House is about your public life. It shows your standing in the community, career, social status and can reflect your attitude to parenting. Other exoteric and esoteric keywords include: Honor, authority, career and profession, life direction, achievement, Masters and Hierarchy.

BALANCE OF QUADRANTS
Scores: 1st Quadrant 0; 2nd Quadrant 3; 3rd Quadrant 5; 4th Quadrant 9
4TH QUADRANT STRONG
You strive to make your mark on the world. This may be beneficial, but could become disruptive if you become too caught up in an ideal.

BALANCE OF HEMISPHERES
Scores: Eastern 9; Northern 3; Western 8; Southern 14
SOUTHERN STRONG
Public life is the pinnacle for you. You gain personal satisfaction from your achievements in the world, and learn much about yourself through your position in the public arena. Your need for a high public profile could be met through both your career and your social status. You need to make sure that your achievements are not at the expense of your loved ones.

LUNAR PHASE: BALSAMIC
Moon less than 45 degrees behind the Sun.
You are a future-oriented person. You feel destiny plays a large part in your life, and may have some gifts in prophecy and leadership.

THE HOUSES

GEMINI ON 1ST HOUSE CUSP
Life is met with curiosity. Communication will become vital in your life, and you will develop a strong desire for knowledge and expression. You need to beware of scattering your energies.

GEMINI ON 2ND HOUSE CUSP
You are full of money-making ideas. You need to watch your tendency to let money slip through your fingers. You value your intellect and your ability to think and talk quickly.

CANCER ON 3RD HOUSE CUSP
You enjoy sharing your feelings and insights in your communications with others. You are intuitive.

LEO ON 4TH HOUSE CUSP
You take pride in your home and family. You like being the centre of attention in your own home environment.

LEO ON 5TH HOUSE CUSP
You enjoy fun and romance. You are playful and have many creative ideas. You enjoy the company of children.

LIBRA ON 6TH HOUSE CUSP
You like a balanced and harmonious daily routine. You like to co-operate with co-workers.

SAGITTARIUS ON 7TH HOUSE CUSP
You are an enthusiastic and fun-loving partner. You prefer your intimate relationships to be seen as an adventure. You need freedom in personal relationships to explore the world.

SAGITTARIUS ON 8TH HOUSE CUSP
You have many morals when it comes to joint enterprises, and sexual relationships. You like to apply your principles to shared resources.

CAPRICORN ON 9TH HOUSE CUSP
You have ambitions to pursue higher education. You take a responsible view of world affairs. You are well organised when you travel, and may travel for business purposes.

AQUARIUS ON 10TH HOUSE CUSP
You will be ingenious and original in your chosen profession. You may choose an unconventional career path. You want to make a contribution to humanity.

AQUARIUS ON 11TH HOUSE CUSP
You enjoy a wide and varied social life. Your friends may be eccentric or different. You may enjoy the social life associated with groups or clubs with a cause.

ARIES ON 12TH HOUSE CUSP
You fear being overwhelmed by other people's emotions, and losing your sense of self. You may find yourself fighting the battles of others, and you need time out to rejuvenate and renew your spiritual direction.

CHART POINTS
THE MOON

THE MOON IN AQUARIUS
You feel secure with intellect rather than emotions. You may be aloof from emotions, or distrust emotions as irrational and unpredictable. You may have viewed your mother as emotionally erratic.

THE MOON IN THE 9TH HOUSE
You have a need to understand the global picture in most situations. You find comfort through adventure; exploring the world through higher learning, travel, religion, philosophy and foreign cultures.

2ND DEGREE OF AQUARIUS
Part of Body: Left tibial nerve
Sabian Symbol: An unexpected thunderstorm.

ASPECTS OF THE MOON
CONJUNCTION MERCURY Orb 0°10' Applying
You are intuitive and imaginative. Your thoughts and speech are strongly linked with your emotions. You speak with feeling. You are able to sense other people's thoughts.

SEXTILE VENUS Orb 0°02' Separating
You can be charming and pleasing in relationships. You like to take the opportunity to be social.

CONJUNCTION THE MIDHEAVEN Orb 2°10' Applying
You crave recognition for your achievements. You are sensitive about your role in public, and often seek a sense of security from your chosen profession. You may also choose a profession in which you look after others. Your mother may also have a strong influence on your life direction.

THE SUN

THE SUN IN AQUARIUS
Aquarians are unconventional, friendly, unpredictable and innovative. They like originality and may become rebellious. Sarah is a true Aquarian, like Abe Lincoln. She is a powerful female leader, yet holds dear the conservative traditions that many think would keep her in the home. Sarah rises above the feminist's stereotypes, and rebells against them, living her life as she chooses.

THE SUN IN THE 10TH HOUSE
Sarah will shine in the public arena. Profession, social status and marital status become the lens through which Sarah expresses herself.

23RD DEGREE OF AQUARIUS
Part of Body: Left gastroscnemius muscle
Sabian Symbol: A big bear sitting down and waving all its paws. (Sarah has a bear rug in her Govenor's office).

ASPECTS OF THE SUN
CONJUNCTION MARS Orb 1°11' Applying
You are hard working and energetic, and can be impulsive. You have a love of adventure, anything that provides an outlet for your boundless energy. You initiate, and take risks, at times acting too impulsively. Sarah is known for her hunting and her energy - and with this conjunction - she's a fireball!

CONJUNCTION SATURN Orb 3°05' Applying
You are responsible, serious and reliable. You may have had a stricter father than the other children. Work and a career will be important to you. You have the self discipline to succeed. And this conjunction gives her the stamina to finish the duties she gives herself.

SQUARE NEPTUNE Orb 4°15' Separating
You are a sensitive and soft person apt to be overwhelmed by your empathy with suffering. You have martyr-like tendencies. You may be unsure of yourself and your own limitations and attributes. You also have creative and artistic leanings.

MERCURY

MERCURY IN AQUARIUS
You are brimming with original and unique ideas. You enjoy exchanging ideas with other people, particularly friends and groups of people. You are an inventive thinker, and may rebel against old and traditional ideas.

MERCURY IN THE 9TH HOUSE
You are keen to explore the realms of knowledge - anything which teaches you about the philosophy of life. You may be fascinated by foreign cultures and religions.

2ND DEGREE OF AQUARIUS
Part of Body: Left tibial nerve
Sabian Symbol: An unexpected thunderstorm.

ASPECTS OF MERCURY
SEXTILE VENUS Orb 0°11' Separating
You enjoy talking with people and are able to put them at their ease. You can compromise. Sarah will need to use these skills in getting their agenda done.

CONJUNCTION THE MIDHEAVEN Orb 2°00' Applying
Communication will play a key role in your chosen profession. You may choose a career such as writing or teaching, publishing or transport related. Sarah was a journalist.

VENUS

VENUS IN ARIES
You will pursue a partner ardently and hastily, and yet strive for freedom and independence, once you are in an intimate relationship. You like to be the initiator in relationships, and can be aggressive. You may be a spendthrift.

VENUS IN THE 11TH HOUSE
You attract many friends and enjoy socialising with groups of people. You may take on a peace-making role within groups.

2ND DEGREE OF ARIES
Part of Body: Midbrain
Sabian Symbol: A comedian entertaining the group.

MARS
MARS IN AQUARIUS
You will fight for just causes. You are unpredictable, but will probably be a group leader. You may become rebellious when angry. Like taking on the 'good old boys of AK'...

MARS IN THE 10TH HOUSE
You are ambitious, seeking power through your career. This may involve a battle for top position. You need autonomy and independence in your profession.

24TH DEGREE OF AQUARIUS
Part of Body: Right tibialis anterior muscle
Sabian Symbol: A man turning his back on his passions and teaching from his Experience.

ASPECTS OF MARS
CONJUNCTION SATURN Orb 1°55' Applying
You sometimes feel that it is hard to express your energy fully, that something always holds you back. There is a feeling of "bashing your head against a brick wall" and this is frustrating. You are ambitious, and have the ability to slowly but surely reach your goals. You also have the ability to organise yourself and others, and good self discipline.

JUPITER

JUPITER IN ARIES
You are freedom-loving, and a spontaneous seeker of the truth. You have the potential to be a philosophical or religious leader.

JUPITER IN THE 12TH HOUSE
You seek meaning in life from deep within yourself. In life's most despairing moments you have the ability to dig deep into a well of optimism. Given the amount of smears aimed against Sarah - she's going to need this.

17TH DEGREE OF ARIES
Part of Body: Vertebral canal
Sabian Symbol: Two prim spinsters sitting together in silence.

ASPECTS OF JUPITER
QUINCUNX NEPTUNE Orb 1°10' Applying
You feel a call to serve others perhaps through a profession or through religion. You will need to learn what is reasonable to do for others, and what is over stepping the boundary of your responsibility.

SATURN

SATURN IN AQUARIUS
You have an ability to work well in groups. Your work is often original and innovative.

SATURN IN THE 10TH HOUSE
You have a fear of public failure, and approach your career with caution. After early setbacks you will become hard-working and respectable in your chosen profession.

26TH DEGREE OF AQUARIUS
Part of Body: Right fibula
Sabian Symbol: A hydrometer.

URANUS

URANUS IN VIRGO
(1962 - 1968) It is important to note that Uranus spends a long time in each sign, and therefore the interpretation applies to a generation rather than the individual. For a more individual interpretation look at the house position. This is the generation which starts to focus on the practical details of humanity. Medical research, the balance between work and leisure, the links between mind and body come into focus.

URANUS IN THE 5TH HOUSE
You have the ability to undertake original and creative schemes. You may have eccentric or unconventional hobbies or creative pursuits. Your children may be original and unconventional.

9TH DEGREE OF VIRGO
Part of Body: Right hepatic lobe
Sabian Symbol: A man making a futurist drawing.

ASPECTS OF URANUS
CONJUNCTION PLUTO Orb 4°46' Separating
Your generation will bring revolutionary change in society. You have high ideals and fully expect that changes can be brought about.

OPPOSITION CHIRON Orb 4°23' Separating
This opposition is common between 1952 and 1989 and therefore has a generational effect. On a personal level: You have a wilful desire for freedom, and are likely to cut ties and to make sudden changes if circumstances or people stand in your way. Your strong desire to express your freedom may be as a result of your inability to face deep emotional wounds. Your task is to honor your intuition and foresight and find a creative outlet for your unique talents.

NEPTUNE

NEPTUNE IN SCORPIO
(1955/57 - 1970) It is important to note that Neptune takes about 164 years to make a complete cycle, spending about thirteen years in each sign. Therefore the interpretation of Neptune in the Sign applies to a generation rather than the individual. For a more individual interpretation look at the house position. This generation has the ability to passionately pursue spiritual values. They face a battle between their desire nature and the desire for a spiritual way of life. They will know of the value of regeneration rather than stagnation. This generation may play a transformative role in the world.

NEPTUNE IN THE 6TH HOUSE
You may have difficulty coping with everyday life. You may experience health problems or allergies as a child. You also have the ability to be of service to others.

18TH DEGREE OF SCORPIO
Part of Body: Vas deferens, hymen
Sabian Symbol: A woods rich in autumn coloring.

ASPECTS OF NEPTUNE
TRINE CHIRON Orb 4°44' Applying
You have a gift for understanding people and lending a caring hand in their times of troubles. Your sensitive and accepting nature encourages people to tell you their heartfelt problems. You may be drawn to the spiritual side of life.

PLUTO

PLUTO IN VIRGO
(1957 - 1972) It is important to note that Pluto takes about 248 years to make a complete cycle, spending 12 to 32 years in each sign. Therefore the interpretation of Pluto in its sign applies to a generation rather than the individual. For a more individual interpretation look at the house position. This generation possesses the ability to transform the way the world sees health. Medical research, world-wide diseases, medical discoveries, and the links between mind and body will be focuses for this generation.

PLUTO IN THE 5TH HOUSE
You have a powerful need to express yourself creatively. You may need to beware of an obsessive need for attention. You may be overly dominant with children.

14TH DEGREE OF VIRGO
Part of Body: Cystic arteries
Sabian Symbol: A family tree.

ASPECTS OF PLUTO
OPPOSITION CHIRON Orb 0°23' Applying
You struggle with the darker side of life feeling overcome by passions such as envy, greed, lust, and jealousy. You do not understand from where these destructive thoughts emerge, but are aware that the more you try to push them to one side the more they grow in magnitude. Your lesson is to delve into your past, recognise past feelings of rejection, and to transform your newfound understanding into positive outlets. You may become a powerful healer, or attract powerful healers into your own life.

CHIRON

CHIRON IN PISCES
You will have difficulty gaining your own sense of individuality. You have an ability to feel others' pain and may need to detach and meditate. You may also suffer from your own deep and personal grief. You may work for or serve within a healing institution.

CHIRON IN THE 11TH HOUSE
Pain for you is experienced in groups. Your friends may include wounded people, healers and teachers. You may later be involved with a group of healers or teachers.

14TH DEGREE OF PISCES
Part of Body: Right cutaneous veins
Sabian Symbol: A lady in fox fur.

VESTA

VESTA IN CAPRICORN
You place importance on structure and order in the workplace. You have great discipline and personal ambition, and can succeed in administrative and management positions. Workers will turn to you for a sense of stability and authority.

VESTA IN THE 9TH HOUSE
You are focused on discovering higher truths in life. On the way you may be sidetracked by one or two fanatical belief systems. However in the end you will be committed to sharing your philosophical truths with the world.

22ND DEGREE OF CAPRICORN
Part of Body: Muscle insertions of upper to lower legs
Sabian Symbol: A general accepting defeat gracefully.

PALLAS

PALLAS IN SAGITTARIUS
You possess the ability to see the big picture. You enjoy philosophical discussions and can include all cultures. You are a defender of truth.

PALLAS IN THE 6TH HOUSE
You have an intelligent approach to daily life - creating schedules at work and home. You may also be a gifted healer or advocate of workers' rights.

1ST DEGREE OF SAGITTARIUS
Part of Body: Pelvic bone
Sabian Symbol: A grand army of the republic campfire.

ASPECTS OF PALLAS
Pallas has no text available for aspects to subsequent chart points.

JUNO

JUNO IN SAGITTARIUS
You would like a partner with a common belief system or vision. You want to be free explore the world, literally and philosophically, with your partner.

JUNO IN THE 6TH HOUSE
You want to work harmoniously on a daily basis with your partner. Sharing the day-to-day chores and decisions will be important to you. Your co-workers may also play an important role in your life.

2ND DEGREE OF SAGITTARIUS
Part of Body: Pelvic girdle
Sabian Symbol: The ocean covered with whitecaps.

ASPECTS OF JUNO
Juno has no text available for aspects to subsequent chart points.

CERES

CERES IN SAGITTARIUS
You prefer your loved ones to provide you with a sense of adventure and freedom. You feel cared for when you are allowed space to explore and reach for your goals.

CERES IN THE 7TH HOUSE
You are loving and caring towards your partner. You also have a need to be loved in return. You may become dependent on your partner.

22ND DEGREE OF SAGITTARIUS
Part of Body: Right trochanter
Sabian Symbol: A chinese laundry.

HYGEIA

HYGEIA IN TAURUS
Your comfort and good health are important. You are apt to become ill when you are not moving forward in other areas of your life.

HYGEIA IN THE 12TH HOUSE
The spiritual health of the world is important to you. You can see the links between physical and spiritual health and want to share these insights with everyone.

9TH DEGREE OF TAURUS
Part of Body: Jugular veins
Sabian Symbol: A christmas tree decorated.

ASTRAEA

ASTRAEA IN AQUARIUS
Your inability to conform to other people's expectations is stopping you from achieving your ideals.

ASTRAEA IN THE 10TH HOUSE
You may have a reluctance to make changes or adjustments in your career. You have difficulty taking risks in your chosen profession or letting go of the old to make way for the new.

7TH DEGREE OF AQUARIUS
Part of Body: Right saphenous veins
Sabian Symbol: A child born of an eggshell.

THE NORTH NODE

THE NORTH NODE IN CANCER
This is a quest to overcome inner pride and to tolerate your own failures. You have a tendency to make life harder than it need be. This is based on past lives where you had to work hard for people's respect. You need to learn humility and to express your emotions honestly so that you can nurture others with your wealth of wisdom.

THE NORTH NODE IN THE 2ND HOUSE
This represents a quest for a set of personal values. You need to leave behind past life misdemeanors and earn your way in this life.

11TH DEGREE OF CANCER
Part of Body: Gastric veins
Sabian Symbol: A clown making grimaces.

THE ASCENDANT

THE ASCENDANT IN GEMINI
Life is met with curiosity. Communication will become vital, and you will develop a strong desire for knowledge and expression. You are the seeker on a search for knowledge in any viable form. Sarah will be known for her communication skills and quick thinking.

3RD DEGREE OF GEMINI
Part of Body: Upper right pulmonary lobe
Sabian Symbol: The garden of the tuileries.

THE MIDHEAVEN

THE MIDHEAVEN IN AQUARIUS
You will be ingenious and original in your chosen profession. You may choose an unconventional career path. You want to make a contribution to humanity. You may change careers.

4TH DEGREE OF AQUARIUS
Part of Body: Left fibula
Sabian Symbol: A hindu healer.

PT FORTUNE

PT FORTUNE IN TAURUS
You will discover joy through stability and your ability to build firm foundations. Surrendering to the forces of nature will bring you peace.

PT FORTUNE IN THE 12TH HOUSE
Aligning with your innermost self brings your the greatest fulfillment. You need to flow and tune into spiritual purpose.

12TH DEGREE OF TAURUS
Part of Body: Cervical and brachial plexi
Sabian Symbol: A young couple walk down main-street, window-shopping.

More Politics

2008-08-14T18:32:00.002-04:00

I just read this article about the upcoming US Presidential election, and while I don't agree with everything - there were some interesting points made.

In 2008, astrologers are again energetically analyzing the astrological charts of the presumptive candidates, John McCain and Barack Obama. A big impediment has been the lack of reliable birth times for all of the candidates, but there is a bigger problem. This year, something doesn't seem right. No one feels good about the astrological conditions on election day, nor the conditions on inauguration day. There is a shadow looming over the charts.

A Primal Antagonism

In 2008, the major planetary configuration of interest is a Saturn-Uranus opposition that occurs on Election Day itself, November 4th. (From a geocentric perspective, the planets will be 180 degrees apart, or directly opposite each other.) This event begins a series of five such oppositions that end in July 2010. This is a combination that occurs approximately every 45 years. This year, the Saturn-Uranus combination is the astro-elephant in the room. It tells us quite a bit about the energies surrounding election day, and thus the next four years.

Astrologers see the Saturn-Uranus opposition as particularly problematical because the natures of the two planets are so different. While planets beyond Saturn relate to more unconscious and universal themes beyond our individual control, Saturn itself describes the structures and boundaries that define our limits within the physical world. In some sense, Saturn fits the definition of reality as given by Phillip K. Dick as, “that which, when you stop believing in it, doesn't go away.” It is the leaden symbol of conservatism, resisting change and yearning for stasis, if not the past.

Conversely, Uranus is the archetype of change, deviance, and rebellion. Often acting in a lightning-fast manner, it seeks to tear down the type of restrictions that are represented by Saturn. In his writings, the philosopher and cultural historian Richard Tarnas sees Uranus as Prometheus, the figure who stole fire from the gods and gave it to men. He calls Prometheus the "Awakener."

While researching material on Ralph Waldo Emerson for a recent article, I received the gift of a synchronicity. Curiously, I found that Emerson used the Saturn-Uranus polarity in a cogent political analysis in which he describes the "primal antagonism" between Conservatives and Reformers. In his 1841 essay The Conservative, he relates the following:

“There is a fragment of old fable which seems somehow to have been dropped from the current mythologies, which may deserve attention, as it appears to relate to this subject.

Saturn grew weary of sitting alone, or with none but the great Uranus or Heaven beholding him, and he created an oyster. Then he would act again, but he made nothing more, but went on creating the race of oysters. Then Uranus cried, `a new work, O Saturn! the old is not good again.'

Saturn replied. `I fear. There is not only the alternative of making and not making, but also of unmaking. Seest thou the great sea, how it ebbs and flows? so is it with me; my power ebbs; and if I put forth my hands, I shall not do, but undo. Therefore I do what I have done; I hold what I have got; and so I resist Night and Chaos.'

`O Saturn,' replied Uranus, `thou canst not hold thine own, but by making more. Thy oysters are barnacles and cockles, and with the next flowing of the tide, they will be pebbles and sea-foam.'

`I see,' rejoins Saturn, `thou art in league with Night, thou art become an evil eye; thou spakest from love; now thy words smite me with hatred. I appeal to Fate, must there not be rest?' -- `I appeal to Fate also,' said Uranus, `must there not be motion?' -- But Saturn was silent, and went on making oysters for a thousand years.

After that, the word of Uranus came into his mind like a ray of the sun, and he made Jupiter; and then he feared again; and nature froze, the things that were made went backward, and, to save the world, Jupiter slew his father Saturn.” --Emerson

Okay - I liked that quote from Emerson. So poetic and a wonderful way to see these archetypal energies. An opposition between Saturn, the Cosmic Karmic Taskmaster, and Uranius, the Radical Changemeister, does seem to represent the polarized feelings of the electorate this year. There are those who feel we have an obligation, a duty (Saturn traits) to see the war in Iraq finished correctly, and those who want change - and want to leave Iraq abruptly (Uranus traits). This continues through-out the conservative agenda (Saturn) vs the liberal agenda (Uranus).

On to some of the transiting aspects of Election Day:

*The Saturn-Uranus opposition, previously discussed, becomes exact at 8:33 AM EST. Significantly, on this day, it acts synergistically with a number of major structures in the chart, forming an uncomfortable relationship with the planet Venus, implying stresses on the social order or (perhaps) international tensions.

*Mercury, our trickster friend from 2000, moves from the sign Libra to Scorpio at 11:00 AM EST. This places it in something of an unsettled cosmic state, introducing the possibility of the kinds of information "irregularities" we saw in 2000.

*In the morning, the Moon is in a sign of its detriment (Capricorn), and is void of course. It changes signs about an hour before most of the polls close on the east coast (7:01 PM EST). This suggests, in the worst case scenario, that the public will not benefit from the election, and imparts a pointlessness to the day's activities.

*There is a Mars-Neptune square aspect (90 degree separation), symbolizing misdirected or exploitative energies as well as possible feelings of discontent or wasted effort.

I don't 100% agree. Mercury in Scorpio to me indicates that there is hidden information - secrets. Perhaps secrets exposed - Scorpio loves to find out others secrets, almost as much as it loves to keep it's own. Heh.

The article talked about what this could mean - and I found this interesting, especially since today I saw that Biden's name was floated as a possible VP for Obama:

More likely is some kind of scandal involving one (or both) of the candidates that may cause him to quit the race. McCain seems to be more subject to this possibility than Obama, but remember that we are expecting the unexpected. Cape Cod astrologer Gary Christen has told me that he expects a dark horse candidate to materialize after some unfortunate event befalls the nation or the "orthodox" candidates. Jacob Schwartz, who did so well in calling the 2000 election, still publicly insists that Joe Biden will be the Democratic candidate. Now that would be unexpected.

Well - I think there will be some surprises coming down the pike - say in October?

Dang! That's better then I could do!

2008-08-14T18:22:00.002-04:00

This is an interesting astrology story:

This is a typical Asian story. The Generals of Burma’s ruling SPDC about two years ago had consulted a prominent and widely respected-recognized astrologer to get a reading of the nation’s horoscope and their own. Asians do strongly believe in the placement of planets and stars, the movement of the stars and their effect on them. The astrologer has convinced the Generals that a severe calamity will visit the Irrawadi Delta region and its surroundings that included the Burmese Capital City Rangoon (Yangon). The military junta immediately took steps to move the Capital to a mountainous region far away from the region the astrologer predicted will be devastated.

Naypyidaw (pronounced nay-pee-DAW) is Burma’s new capital, built in secret by the ruling military junta and was officially unveiled in November 2005. The name denotes ‘royal capital’ in Burmese. From Rangoon (or Yangon) it is a nine hour drive.

The New York Times in a special feature about the capital carried in its June 24 edition says: “Even the most charitable observers of Myanmar’s junta portray its members as out of touch. Now they are literally out of sight: the generals live and work in a guarded zone of Naypyidaw that is off limits to all but senior officers.”

To the amazement of everyone a deadly cyclone hit the very area the astrologer predicted on May 3 this year. The interpretation of some in Burma, and also in Thailand, is that the credibility of the Generals of the military junta went up bringing support from unexpected quarters of the Burmese population.

The New York Times further states: “When the Cyclone Nargis swept through the Irrawaddy Delta last month with winds up to 155 miles per hour, it killed about 130,000 people and damaged many buildings in Yangon. But the generals and civil servants ensconced in Naypyidaw felt only a zephyr, residents say.”

Hmmm. Perhaps the generals would have been wise to share this information with the common people, so that they too could have been saved. Sad.

Inspiring video

2008-07-26T11:59:00.005-04:00

The Last Lecture: Achieving Your Childhood Dreams by Dr. Randy Pausch

Very touching and full of sound advice. In it Dr. Pausch talks about 'Brick Walls' and Karma. This is a perfect way to think about the positive aspects of Saturn - the Karmic Taskmaster - the planet of responsiblity, duty and form.

Update - I had some more thoughts while pondering this video in the pool. Today is Saturday, the day ruled by Saturn. Next, this video is by a father who is dying, to give advice to his children on life. Saturn can represent the father, and responsibility and duty are traits associated with Saturn. Saturn is also known as the greater malific - and the ancient astrologers always dreaded it - for they thought it brought bad things. And Dr. Pausch did have cancer. He died yesterday.

RIP Randy - you left the world a better place for your being in it.

Upcoming lunar eclipse

2008-07-26T09:49:00.001-04:00

July 27-31

Aside from an opposition between Venus and Neptune which appears on the 30th and 31st, there’s not much to stand in your way at the end of the month. Venus Neptune can be spaced out and delusional, or artistic, creative, and inspirational. Oppositions can go either way. Be careful with alcohol, drugs and other things you might be sensitive to— Neptune transits heighten our sensitivity.

It’s the dark phase of the Moon, a time of planning and vision, finishing up what you started at the beginning of the current Lunar cycle (July 2), and getting ready to start something new at the time of the new Moon. And this upcoming new Moon is a special one, a Solar Eclipse. So now is the time to reflect on what you have accomplished up to now, and start thinking of what you want to bring into your life between August and the next set of Eclipses in February 2009.

The August Eclipses have a lot of great potential. According to Bernadette Brady in her book, Predictive Astrology, every Eclipse belongs to a “family” or grouping of Eclipses that spans thousands of years. August’s belong to Saros Series 10 South, which she characterizes like this:

This Saros Series concerns itself with breaking out of a very negative situation where no hope can be seen to a more positive space containing many options. A worry that may have been affecting a person will suddenly clear. The solution is shown by the Cosmos and needs to be taken up without too much delay.

You’ll wish you could store a cup of this energy in the pantry. But you can’t, so here’s hoping all of us will find the best way to make the most of it!

Obama's and McCain's week

2008-07-26T08:25:00.003-04:00

Hmmm - I find it interesting that Obama - the Leo - has been starring in his own Magical Mystery tour - traveling the world - shining in the spotlight - basking in the adulation

"People of Berlin -- people of the world -- this is our moment. This is our time."

Meantime, McCain - the Virgo - is dutifully making campaign stops in small town America - but did link up with the Dali Lama and said this:

A reporter asked McCain whether he had obtained an endorsement from the Lama. McCain responded that Lama, as an apolitical religious leader, was officially neutral with regard to the US presidential campaign: ”The Lama told me there won’t be any endorsement, but when I die, on my deathbed, I will receive total consciousness. So I got that goin’ for me… which is nice.”

Stevie NIcks - Stand Back!

2008-07-18T18:56:00.002-04:00

Just because...
(well it is a full moon, after all)

Full Buck Moon tonight

2008-07-18T18:38:00.002-04:00

The Full Buck Moon - July is normally the month when the new antlers of buck deer push out of their foreheads in coatings of velvety fur. It was also often called the Full Thunder Moon, for the reason that thunderstorms are most frequent during this time. Another name for this month's Moon was the Full Hay Moon.

From Aphrodette:

This Full Moon is very quiet in Capricorn. Its subtle sextile to retrograde Uranus in Pisces indicates that we must cling to our strategy and ideals in a time of Global change. Protection and security loom large in this cycle but, yet, it is difficult not to mourn the sacrifices that have been made in more than one culture. Natural disasters and wars throughout the planet, whether seemingly large or small - our hearts and souls reach out to those who suffer. It is a time to pray without ceasing and do what is necessary to move toward the rebuilding and vitalizing of this Planet. We cling to the everyday miracles of a rescued child or a fire contained. Breathe hope into the World now.

Barak Obama's Chart

2008-07-17T20:25:00.003-04:00

Well, a friend of mine also posted his analysis about Obama's chart - and it is very good.

Since Tony went into alot of great detail about the planets and the signs/houses that they are in, I will focus on closed configurations that I think are sigficant.

Obama has what we call a T-Square, which involves an opposition (180 degrees orb +/-) between his Chiron in the 1st House/Aquarius(intercepted Pisces) and his Pluto in the 7th House/Leo (intercepted Virgo). They both square (90 degrees orb +/-) his Moon in the 4th House Taurus (intercepted Gemini). Whoa! We have some complex drama going on here! First off, these are important houses - the 1st House represents yourself - how others see you, the 4th House represents your home &/or your mother, and the 7th House represents your one-on-one relationships: like your spouse, but could also be your lover/partner/or your closest enemy.

So we have Obama's Chiron in Pisces, which increases the 'Wounded Healer' who strives to teach and heal others. However, Pisces 'fogs up the glasses' and he may find that he have difficulty with his own sense of individuality. With the Aquarian overlay (it is on the cusp of this house) Obama might be overwhelmed with other's pain and he may need to occasionally detach himself from others. He probably also suffers from his own deep and personal grief - perhaps the loss of his father so early, and also his mother. With Chiron in the 1st house - he takes hurt very personally.

Obama's Moon in Gemini (intercepted) can be a difficult sign for the Moon to be in. The Moon is all about emotion - and Gemini is all about thinking/talking/intellectually working things out. It also represents his mother - he probably saw her as an intellectual. When Obama gets hurt (see Chiron) he feels the need to understand and rationalize it all out. But emotions cannot always be understood - especially pain. Sometimes you need to feel them, and release them. He probably has difficulty with this, given the signs on the cusps of this T-Square are all fixed (Aquarius, Taurus, & Leo) - he does not let go of anything easily - and with his Pluto in Virgo (intercepted in Leo) - his pain runs very deep, indeed. It is interesting to me to see how the planets involved are all in mutable (easily changable) signs that are intercepted in fixed signs. Obama shows a stubborn shell on the cusps of these important Houses - but it protects his softer, more insecure and changable (intecepted) planets. Very interesting energies flowing there. But I need to talk about Pluto more. Pluto is the planet of deep transformations. Very powerful, on a global level. I like to compare Pluto's impact to a woman giving birth. In order to have her desired baby - she must go through the agony of labor and delivery. Painful - but well worth the pain. But it is not fun. Obama's pain transformed him - it made him the man he is. And he is compelled through his pain to help others - perhaps because of his mother's teachings.

Another significant aspect configuration Obama's chart contains is that of a Yod. A "Yod" is a triangular pattern in an astrology chart, which consists of 3 connecting points. It is an isosceles triangle with two long equal sides and a short side. The triangle has two 150 degree angles (quincunx) and one 60 degree angle (sextile). The triangle is pointing directly at something, which astrologers refer to as "The Finger of God," because it is a direct indicator giving the chart-holder a clue. The effect of a Yod is said to be “fated” or show some special destiny.

It is not an always easy configuration; the quincunx, a strange minor aspect that, by itself, is off again, on again, favorable, unfavorable. The two planets making the quincunx seem to be out of joint. It is like the planets are bi-polar; sometimes good, sometimes bad.

The focus planet is significant - it is Obama's ruling planet: Uranius in Leo/7th House. Uranius is the planet of radical change (heh - have you heard those words before in connection to Obama?) also of advanced foresight and genius. And revolution. Love him or hate him - he evokes strong emotions from others who either see him as a great leader or a radical revolutionary. The other planets in play are Saturn in the 12th House/Capricorn (serious, responsible Karmic Taskmaster) and a asteroid Pallas in the 1st House/Pisces (intercepted) (wisdom, intuition, logic and applied strategy). To me, this all represents that Obama's destiny can represent wise, responsible change - when all the planets are playing nicely together. When they are not - the shadow side - his destiny could be arrogant, cold, stubborn radical disruption.

Uranus also rules electricity - and isn't it interesting that energy & power are big issues now....and this election sure is electric!

John McCain's Chart

2008-07-13T14:29:00.003-04:00

Hey folk's - I read that McCain's mother modified the time of birth to 11 am - so here is the chart I pulled up on him. The big significant change is that his ASC is in Scorpio, rather then Libra. To be honest, this makes alot more sense to me - since he seems much more intense then the accomodating Libra ASC would be.

As far as his planets aspects to each other - a couple of closed configurations jumped out at me. John McCain has a grand square - it is form when four planets are in consecutive sensitive spots 90 degrees from each other, plus or minus 3 degrees (well Jupiter is within 7 degrees orb, but it is a big planet and a big player). In his chart it is his Venus in Virgo/11th house; Chiron in Gemini/8th house; Saturn in Pisces/5th house; and Jupiter in Sag(intercepted)/ 1st house. This configuration combines four consecutive squares and two crisscrossed oppositions. Thus it will combine the sense of inner tension of the opposition with the perception of problems and obstacles of the square. This can result in a person accustomed to see life as a place full of conflicts and obstacles where you must fight continuously to get ahead. (POW camp, anyone?) However, dealing with these challenges and obstacles show by the Grand Squares would lead to one who would likely be successful, provided that no major trauma or adverse circumstances limit them irremediably.

John McCain's Grand Square is both very harsh (with Saturn the unforgiving Karmic Taskmaster and Chiron, the wounded healer who strives to use their self-knowledge of pain to instruct others) and has two of the Zodiac's 'Benefics'(these are planets that assist in a positive outcome. Traditionally, Jupiter is known as the 'Greater Benefic' and Venus as the 'Lesser Benefic')as the other part of his Grand Square. In addition, Jupiter is in the sign it rules, Sagitarius, giving it greater power. So John McCain has gone through some very painful lessions, but Jupiter, and to a lesser degree Venus, was protecting him as well. This Grand Square is also mutable - which can account for some of the famous temper outbreaks that flash out from time to time. I would personally guess the temper is more associated with McCain's Mars in Leo(conjunct his midheaven) square his Uranus in Taurus. These aspects indicate one who is very stubborn (Leo/Taurus fixed signs), and Mars in Leo has alot of hot energy to propel him to leadership positions, while the Uranus is upredictable, radical, and forward thinking. They call him 'Maverick' for a reason. And he will fight those who he feels are holding him or his ideas back. McCain's Mars in Leo conjuct his midheaven has another significance - it indicates that he will be publicly seen as a strong leader.

He also has a very nice Grand Trine - postive energy flow - between his Sun(self/ego), Uranus (radical change) & his north node (destiny)....

On to the rest of the chart (I have highlighted and made comments there too):

John McCain - Male Chart
Aug 29 1936, 11:00 am, EST +5:00
Cocosolo PAN, 09°N23', 079°W53'
Geocentric Tropical Zodiac
Placidus Houses, True Node

BACKGROUND INFORMATION

BALANCE OF SIGNS
Scores: Aries 0; Taurus 1; Gemini 0; Cancer 1; Leo 5; Virgo 6; Libra 2; Scorpio 3; Sagittarius 1; Capricorn 3; Aquarius 0; Pisces 1
LEO STRONG
Self-confident, generous, warm-hearted, powerful leader, dramatic. Can be overly proud, vain, extravagant, arrogant.
VIRGO STRONG
Meticulous, discriminating, pure, practical, health conscious, hard working. Can be hyper-critical, petty and perfectionistic.

BALANCE OF ELEMENTS
Scores: Fire 6; Earth 10; Air 2; Water 5
EARTH STRONG
You are a practical and efficient, hands-on person. You can be relied on to take a common-sense approach to most matters. Your down-to-earth manner stands you in good stead for the daily chores of life. Your weakness lies in your sometimes stubborn refusal to make changes in your life. You tend to stifle both your own and other people's enthusiasm.
AIR WEAK
You lack objectivity - the ability to stand back and view aspects of life from a detached and rational perspective. You have difficulty making decisions and in the process of weighing up the pros and cons in a logical manner.

BALANCE OF MODES
Scores: Cardinal 6; Fixed 9; Mutable 8
The modes are balanced in this chart.

BALANCE OF HOUSES
Scores: 1st 1; 2nd 0; 3rd 3; 4th 0; 5th 1; 6th 1; 7th 0; 8th 0; 9th 3; 10th 4; 11th 4; 12th 0
3RD STRONG
The Third House is about communication. It also refers to early learning, siblings, immediate environment and short journeys. Other exoteric and esoteric keywords include: mental processes and communication, active search for knowledge, early learning, siblings, short journeys, telepathy and mental energy.
9TH STRONG
The Ninth House is about higher learning. It covers academic subjects, law, religion, publishing, foreign culture, sport, overseas travel and philosophy. Other exoteric and esoteric keywords include: Philosophy, religion, higher education, distant travel, cultural learning, publishing, the journey along the Path, the Ageless Wisdom, akashic records.
10TH STRONG
The Tenth House is about your public life. It shows your standing in the community, career, social status and can reflect your attitude to parenting. Other exoteric and esoteric keywords include: Honor, authority, career and profession, life direction, achievement, Masters and Hierarchy.
11TH STRONG
The Eleventh House is about your friendships and relationship with groups of people. It is also about your hopes and dreams. Other exoteric and esoteric keywords include: Friends and social acquaintances, groups and organisations and their activities, the New Group of World Servers. (Think about how often he addresses groups as 'my friends'...)

BALANCE OF QUADRANTS
Scores: 1st Quadrant 4; 2nd Quadrant 2; 3rd Quadrant 3; 4th Quadrant 8
4TH QUADRANT STRONG
You strive to make your mark on the world. This may be beneficial, but could become disruptive if you become too caught up in an ideal.

BALANCE OF HEMISPHERES
Scores: Eastern 12; Northern 6; Western 5; Southern 11
EASTERN STRONG
You are a self-motivated and self-oriented individual. You like to map out your own life and follow your own path, experiencing difficulties only if anyone stands in your way. You value your independence and enjoy your own company. You enjoy the company of other people, but only if they give you plenty of freedom for your own pursuits. You need to watch out for egocentric and selfish behaviour.

LUNAR PHASE: GIBBOUS
Moon 135 to 180 degrees ahead of the Sun.
You are a resourceful and goal-oriented person seeking purpose and meaning in your life. You can often be found seeking knowledge to add value to your life.

THE HOUSES

SCORPIO ON 1ST HOUSE CUSP
Life is viewed as a battle in which triumph and defeat often feature. Intensity is a key mode of your self-expression. You need to balance this with some stability and practicality.

SAGITTARIUS ON 2ND HOUSE CUSP
You have a sense of abundance when it comes to money matters. You may also be a spendthrift. You value your ability to see the big picture.

CAPRICORN ON 3RD HOUSE CUSP
You are pragmatic. You have the wisdom to know when to speak, and when to hold your tongue. You may believe yourself to be a superior communicator.

AQUARIUS ON 4TH HOUSE CUSP
Your home-life is busy and unpredictable. There may have been upheavals in your home life during your childhood.

PISCES ON 5TH HOUSE CUSP
You are creative and artistically talented. You enjoy music, dance, art, theatre - any pastime which is uplifting and helps you escape.

ARIES ON 6TH HOUSE CUSP
Your daily life is far from steady. You like to start the day early, free to set your own routine, rather than being tied to a stable routine.

TAURUS ON 7TH HOUSE CUSP
You prefer your partners to be stable and practical. You feel secure with someone who values loyalty and commitment.

GEMINI ON 8TH HOUSE CUSP
You are sexually curious. You may be difficult to pin down when involved in joint enterprises.

CANCER ON 9TH HOUSE CUSP
You like the idea of a sentimental journey, but have some fears about the realities of travelling away from home and loved ones. Travelling with photos from home in your suitcase may help. You prefer to undertake your studies from home if possible.

LEO ON 10TH HOUSE CUSP
Your identity has strong links with your public status. You like to shine in your professional field. You have power, strength and leadership skills in your profession.

VIRGO ON 11TH HOUSE CUSP
You are fussy about the company you keep. You are a practical and caring friend, often looking after the daily details of friends lives. You are an asset to any group or club. You may be critical of friends who fail to live up to your expectations.

LIBRA ON 12TH HOUSE CUSP
You may be overly sensitive to the needs of others, leading to a fear of conflict.

CHART POINTS

THE MOON

THE MOON IN CAPRICORN
You feel secure when life is structured, or you are working hard. You may be emotionally distant or cold. You mother's love may be limited in some way. Your mother may have been strict or cold.

THE MOON IN THE 3RD HOUSE
You have a strong need to communicate, learn and gain knowledge. Your intuition is strong and you may find that you intuitively know other people's feelings.

29TH DEGREE OF CAPRICORN
Part of Body: Left genicular arteries
Sabian Symbol: A woman reading tea leaves.

ASPECTS OF THE MOON
TRINE MERCURY Orb 4°11' Applying
You are able to communicate your thoughts and feelings with ease. You may be a charming person, at times manipulative. You have a talent for making decisions based on both your heart and mind.

TRINE VENUS Orb 5°16' Separating
You are pleasant and charming. You have a talent for harmonious relationships, for being able to achieve a balance of give and take in relationships, and for creating beauty around you. You have artistic and creative talents.

OPPOSITION PLUTO Orb 0°10' Separating
Conflict arises in your life through your relationships with dramatic and intense individuals. As a child you may have experience intense conflict with a parent figure, probably mother. As an adult, you experience a love-hate element in your relationships which is a reflection of how you feel about yourself. You need to accept change in your life and channel the intensity into a suitable creative project.

THE SUN

THE SUN IN VIRGO
You are an analytical and critical individual. You are also practical and discriminating, and may be fussy.

THE SUN IN THE 10TH HOUSE
You shine in the public arena. Profession, social status and marital status become the lens through which you will express yourself.

7TH DEGREE OF VIRGO
Part of Body: Rectum
Sabian Symbol: A harem.

ASPECTS OF THE SUN
TRINE URANUS Orb 3°24' Applying
You are inventive and use your unique talents well. People are attracted to your easy-going sense of individuality. You are interested in out of the ordinary pursuits.

MERCURY

MERCURY IN LIBRA
You are a diplomat and peacemaker, often acting as a go-between in relationships. You a good communicator, putting others at their ease. Arguments may upset you, as you prefer harmony in communications.

MERCURY IN THE 11TH HOUSE
Communication with your friends will be important to you. You will want to share your thoughts and ideas with friends. You may also like to study with groups, or to join a group with common beliefs.

3RD DEGREE OF LIBRA
Part of Body: Adrenals
Sabian Symbol: The dawn of a new day, everything changed.

ASPECTS OF MERCURY
CONJUNCTION VENUS Orb 9°27' Applying
You express yourself in a loving manner. You enjoy talking with people, and they find you a warm and welcoming listener. (McCain loves Town-Hall meetings..)

VENUS

VENUS IN VIRGO
You will seek meaningful relationships with a practical basis. You will want your partner to be precise, neat and punctual. You may expect perfection. You will enjoy having detailed analytical conversations.

VENUS IN THE 11TH HOUSE
You attract many friends and enjoy socialising with groups of people. You may take on a peace-making role within groups.

23RD DEGREE OF VIRGO
Part of Body: Capsule and ligaments of liver
Sabian Symbol: A lion-tamer rushes fearlessly into the circus arena.

ASPECTS OF VENUS
OPPOSITION SATURN Orb 2°46' Separating
You have an inability to trust and show your love for other people. This probably stems from childhood experiences with your parents. You may have felt unworthy of your parents' love. Alternatively you may have perceived your parents' as cold and unloving. As an adult you may become involved in relationships with an older person or someone who offers you financial or emotional security. You need to develop your own value system and develop compassion for yourself and other people.

CONJUNCTION NEPTUNE Orb 6°48' Separating
You yearn for romance within your personal relationships. You are seeking an ideal and perfect partner, who only exists in fairy tales. You become disillusioned with the imperfections of relationships and seek solace in a fantasy world. You need to face the realities and imperfections of yourself and others. Then you will be able to share beauty, art and creative pursuits with your partners.

SQUARE CHIRON Orb 0°12' Separating
You experience emotional pain in your relationships. You have difficulty experiencing the joy and beauty of intimate relationships. You need to face early childhood feelings of rejection and develop empathy for others close to you.

MARS

MARS IN LEO
You have a strong need to express your personal creativity. You may display dramatic and confident behaviour, and like to make an impact on your surroundings. You may also be arrogant.

MARS IN THE 9TH HOUSE
You seek adventure through travel, study or religion. You are on a quest to explore the higher meaning of life.

13TH DEGREE OF LEO
Part of Body: Right ventricle of heart
Sabian Symbol: An old sea captain rocking on the porch of his cottage.

ASPECTS OF MARS
TRINE JUPITER Orb 2°43' Applying
You are enthusiastic with an endless source of energy. You could direct your energy to achievement in sports, politics or travel.

SQUARE URANUS Orb 2°52' Separating
You feel the need to get your enormous energy level under some control and can eventually develop self restraint. This makes you valuable as a leader, usually in a career where your level of courage is appreciated. It will not be in a mundane area. You can be at times accident prone. Or flash in anger

CONJUNCTION THE MIDHEAVEN Orb 2°58' Applying
You have much energy for your chosen profession. You are ambitious, and possibly competitive in your field. Sports may feature.

JUPITER

JUPITER IN SAGITTARIUS
You have a love of adventure, philosophy, study, religions, and foreign cultures. You could be an enthusiastic and inspirational teacher.

JUPITER IN THE 1ST HOUSE
You have a larger than life presence and an ability to inspire others. You could be a natural preacher and/or teacher.

16TH DEGREE OF SAGITTARIUS
Part of Body: Left iliac vein
Sabian Symbol: Sea gulls watching a ship.
Hmmm - he was a Navy pilot

ASPECTS OF JUPITER
SQUARE SATURN Orb 5°03' Applying
You have a poor idea of your own abilities and tend to put yourself down. Don't compare yourself to others. Believe in your own abilities. Do not expect recognition from others. Work to reward yourself.

SQUARE NEPTUNE Orb 1°02' Applying
You are artistic and talented but need to learn self discipline if you are to make something of it. You may be careless with your possessions and need to learn to handle money. Don't speculate.

OPPOSITION CHIRON Orb 7°38' Applying
The fact that other people do not live up to your high ideals causes you pain. At times your emotional pain may even seem unbearable. You have such high hopes for humanity. You may struggle with orthodox religion or become a religious fanatic. Your lesson is to find the answers within. You may find that dedicating yourself to an appropriate cause helps you find a balance in your life. Take time to reflect on your experiences. Your insights may lead to wisdom.

SATURN

SATURN IN PISCES
You are a compassionate and intuitive worker, although you can be anxious and fearful. With this position you may experience strong karma to be worked through in this lifetime.

SATURN IN THE 5TH HOUSE
You may have experienced a lack of fun felt early in life, resulting in a reticence to relax or play later in life. You will find that structuring your creative work and recreation time is your best approach.
This reminds me of how he suffered in the POW camp, came back and later divorced his wife who said he was a 40 year old who wanted to be 25.

21ST DEGREE OF PISCES
Part of Body: Left fibula muscle
Sabian Symbol: A little white lamb, a child and a chinese servant.

ASPECTS OF SATURN
OPPOSITION NEPTUNE Orb 4°01' Applying
You have difficulty giving form to your creative side. Your artistic nature may lack discipline or you may downplay your creative side as you lack confidence in your abilities. Learn to respect both the artistic and the rational side of yourself and finish a creative project. This will feed your self confidence.

SQUARE CHIRON Orb 2°35' Separating
You have difficulty accepting yourself and other people, and have a tendency to be critical. This may be a result of your own feelings of inadequacy. You need to use your willpower to relax and see things in a lighter fashion. This will help you discover your own inner wisdom.

URANUS

URANUS IN TAURUS
(1934 - 1942) It is important to note that Uranus spends a long time in each sign, and therefore the interpretation applies to a generation rather than the individual. For a more individual interpretation look at the house position. This is the generation which had the tenacity to pursue the new ways of society. Suddenly humanity's resources come into focus.

URANUS IN THE 6TH HOUSE
Your approach to daily life may be unusual. You may experience sudden changes in your health, or keep unusual pets.

10TH DEGREE OF TAURUS
Part of Body: Cervical veins
Sabian Symbol: A red cross nurse.

NEPTUNE

NEPTUNE IN VIRGO
(1928/29 - 1942/43) It is important to note that Neptune takes about 164 years to make a complete cycle, spending about thirteen years in each sign. Therefore the interpretation of Neptune in the Sign applies to a generation rather than the individual. For a more individual interpretation look at the house position. People of this generation are faced with the task of analysing the excesses of extravagance, and organising a systemic approach to blending the spiritual and practical. They are concerned with spiritual matters becoming part of a daily routine. For instance, it is this generation that may view regular attendance at church a necessity for good healthy living.

NEPTUNE IN THE 10TH HOUSE
You yearn to be of service through your profession. You may experience a sense of loss surrounding your chosen life direction. You may be required to sacrifice your chosen career in some way.

17TH DEGREE OF VIRGO
Part of Body: Abdominal muscles
Sabian Symbol: A volcano in eruption.

PLUTO

PLUTO IN CANCER
(1914 - 1939) It is important to note that Pluto takes about 248 years to make a complete cycle, spending 12 to 32 years in each sign. Therefore the interpretation of Pluto in its sign applies to a generation rather than the individual. For a more individual interpretation look at the house position. This is the generation of upheaval in social systems. People born into this generation were born into troubled times which threatened their security and family. This generation possessed the ability to form new social concepts.

PLUTO IN THE 9TH HOUSE
You have a powerful drive to discover higher meanings in life. You need to beware of becoming dogmatic in your personal philosophies. You may become obsessed with travel, study or religion.

29TH DEGREE OF CANCER
Part of Body: Spleen
Sabian Symbol: A greek muse weighs in golden scales just born twins.

CHIRON

CHIRON IN GEMINI
You may not trust your own thought processes, or you may fear communicating with others. You may have suffered a communication problem as a child. Early schooling may have been painful. You may also have the ability to tap into universal or spiritual creative ideas. You may teach in a way that benefits humanity.

CHIRON IN THE 8TH HOUSE
You may feel inadequate sexually. You may be sensitive to painful undercurrents, and use this knowledge later to become an intuitive healer.

23RD DEGREE OF GEMINI
Part of Body: Head of the humerus
Sabian Symbol: Three fledglings in a nest high in a tree.

VESTA

VESTA IN CANCER
You are committed to your family and loved ones, especially when they need you. However, you may withdraw like a crab into your shell if you feel hurt by those closest to you. You enjoy working with those close to you.

VESTA IN THE 8TH HOUSE
You are committed to discovering the mysteries of life. You have the ability to unearth metaphysical truths which you are dedicated to teaching to others. You may experience some difficulties if others are uncomfortable moving beyond the superficial.

3RD DEGREE OF CANCER
Part of Body: Eighth rib
Sabian Symbol: An arctic explorer leads a reindeer through icy canyons.

PALLAS

PALLAS IN SCORPIO
You have a probing mind preferring to always get to the bottom of things. You can be ruthless in your pursuit of the true story. You are a detective and a psychologist.

PALLAS IN THE 12TH HOUSE
You have the ability to understand and communicate spiritual teachings. Your creative ideas may benefit humanity. You may be required to make personal sacrifices so that your wisdom is used for the good of the whole.

4TH DEGREE OF SCORPIO
Part of Body: Testicles, right side of uterus
Sabian Symbol: A youth holding a lighted candle.

JUNO

JUNO IN LEO
You want to be proud of your partner, and for them to take pride in you. You want to have fun, romance, and creativity within your relationship.

JUNO IN THE 10TH HOUSE
You are committed to your career. You may choose a partner to augment your position in society. Your partner will need to be involved in your career.

25TH DEGREE OF LEO
Part of Body: Pericardium
Sabian Symbol: A large camel crossing the desert.

CERES

CERES IN SCORPIO
You feel cared for when your loved ones intensely focus their attention on you. You are emotionally committed to those close to you.

CERES IN THE 1ST HOUSE
You appear as a sympathetic and comforting person. You like to care for others and they are attracted to your warm nature. You may need to learn to nurture yourself as well.

26TH DEGREE OF SCORPIO
Part of Body: Perineum
Sabian Symbol: Indians making camp.

HYGEIA

HYGEIA IN CANCER
Your health may be closely linked to your home environment. Any disruptions in the home may spark bouts of ill health. You may be concerned for your family's health.

HYGEIA IN THE 8TH HOUSE
You like to delve into the topic of health in order to understand the hidden undercurrents. Death may hold a fascination. You may enter into joint ventures linked with health. Sexual health may also feature in your life.

5TH DEGREE OF CANCER
Part of Body: tenth to twelfth ribs
Sabian Symbol: An automobile wrecked by a train. Interesting that this should be his Sabian Symbol for the planetoid associated with health...seeing how his health was impacted by the years of torture as a POW

ASTRAEA

ASTRAEA IN GEMINI
You have difficulty making up your mind. You prefer to keep your options open and may miss opportunities to learn new ideas.

ASTRAEA IN THE 7TH HOUSE
You have an inability to let go of personal relationships. You may also have difficulty giving your partner freedom. When an intimate relationship is ready to change or end you may not give up.

9TH DEGREE OF GEMINI
Part of Body: Pulmonary arteries
Sabian Symbol: A quiver filled with arrows.

THE NORTH NODE

THE NORTH NODE IN CAPRICORN
This is a quest for maturity. You have a tendency to become over- dependent on other people and cling to them as if you were a child. You burden others with your real or imagined emotional problems wanting them to take a parental role. You will spend much of your life searching for a father-figure unless you can rise to the challenge of becoming responsible for your own life. You need to let go of your personal problems and work towards your own respected place in the world.

THE NORTH NODE IN THE 2ND HOUSE
This represents a quest for a set of personal values. You need to leave behind past life misdemeanors and earn your way in this life.

2ND DEGREE OF CAPRICORN
Part of Body: Left patella
Sabian Symbol: Three stained-glass windows, one damaged by bombardment.

THE ASCENDANT

THE ASCENDANT IN SCORPIO
Life is viewed as a battle in which triumph and defeat often feature. Intensity is a key mode of your self-expression. You will become resourceful and insightful based on your own dramatic experiences.

18TH DEGREE OF SCORPIO
Part of Body: Vas deferens, hymen
Sabian Symbol: A woods rich in autumn coloring.

THE MIDHEAVEN

THE MIDHEAVEN IN LEO
Your sense of self-importance is strongly linked with your public status. You like to shine in your professional field. You have power, strength and leadership skills in your profession.

16TH DEGREE OF LEO
Part of Body: Left atrium
Sabian Symbol: Sunshine just after a storm.

PT FORTUNE

PT FORTUNE IN ARIES
When you are flowing with self-propelled energy you will experience joy. You will find fulfillment in using your willpower to achieve your goals.

PT FORTUNE IN THE 5TH HOUSE
For you creativity equals joy. Your personal creations inspire beauty and joy. You need to develop impersonal friendships.

10TH DEGREE OF ARIES
Part of Body: Eyeball
Sabian Symbol: A scholar creates new forms for ancient symbols.

New Moon 6/3/08

2008-06-02T20:54:00.000-04:00

New moon - time for new beginnings. Great time to start new habits, like a new diet...

This is a great article:

Gemini New Moon:
Monkey Mind at Play
by Simone Butler

Just before Mercury went backward on May 26, I was having an intense discussion with my partner when something suddenly flew out of my mouth that shocked us both. I'm usually able to put things diplomatically, but it spewed forth from my unconscious mind before I could catch it. The good news is that after the hurt was soothed, greater understanding was born.

Welcome to Mercury retrograde in Gemini, sign of communication. This cycle (May 26-June 19) exposes what we really think and dredges up patterns from the past. It helps us examine our thoughts and become aware of the stories and tapes that run in our heads, so we can release them and open our minds to higher awareness. This process is intensified by the Sun and Venus also in mental Gemini through June 20 and 25, respectively.

June is, therefore, a good month to observe the antics of the Monkey Mind. Monkey Mind is a Buddhist term that describes the way our manic minds keep us from inner peace and happiness by distracting us with idle chatter, jumping to conclusions and swinging from one extreme to another.

Retrograde Mercury in Gemini is the ideal time in which to rewind and hit "delete" on these old tapes. On May 26 both Mercury and Neptune dove into the underworld of the subconscious mind, each making a facilitating trine to the other. This combination supercharges our intuition, intensifies healing powers and triggers normally inaccessible insights. Be especially attentive to blurted-out revelations and the repetition of old patterns, which come forth for cleansing and healing.

Adding to the intensity, the Gemini New Moon on June 3 is near perigee, its closest approach to the Earth. This makes it a "SuperMoon," increasing the electromagnetic force of both the Sun and Moon and thereby helping us release old patterns. And, the New Moon is conjunct Venus, now at apogee, her greatest distance from Earth, as she passes behind the Sun. This "Full Venus" phase provides deeper awareness of our values, priorities and relationship needs.

Venus disappeared from sight earlier in May, and will continue to be invisible in the night sky until she emerges as the evening star on July 16. I asked our favorite Venus scholar Dana Gerhardt for her thoughts on Venus visiting the underworld at this time. "Since the evening star is generally considered a more "mature," refined and level-headed Venus," she notes, "I tend to think of this underworld visit as a coronation or fulfillment. Perhaps we're meant (or encouraged) to feel more confident in our course…enjoying who and what we are without doubt and questioning."

The image of Venus being crowned as queen of the underworld is evocative, as she makes a supportive sextile to Mars (her king), at the June 3 New Moon. This provides a nice opportunity to harmonize our internal masculine and feminine energies and relax into our deeper selves. Combining this self-confident Venus imagery with retrograde Mercury's "taking a holiday" approach reminds us to surrender to and enjoy what is. It may be best to hold off making major decisions or starting new projects, however, until the last week of June at the earliest. Give yourself time to absorb all the insights flowing in during the retrograde phase. Clarity will come in time.

In June, 2004, the Sun, Mercury and Venus also traveled through Gemini--only that time Venus was retrograde and at perigee, her closest point to the Earth, as she crossed in front of the Sun. This was the "New Venus" phase. Think back to what was going on for you at that time. Are there any parallels to now? You might discover that seeds you planted four years ago are now coming to fruition or completion, even bringing you rewards.

Most importantly, don't stress over what happened in the past. As Abraham/Hicks so eloquently put it, "There is nothing for you to go back and live over, or fix, or feel regret about now. Every part of your life has unfolded just right. And so, knowing all that you know from where you now stand, what do you want? Go forth in joy."

McCain's chart

2008-05-22T06:12:00.000-04:00

Interesting post from a friend:

So... it's long seemed as if the Democrats would be a slam dunk for regaining the White House in the 2008 presidential elections?

If I were you, I wouldn't take my eye off the ball...

John McCain
August 29, 1936
9:00 am
Cocosolo, Panama

Midheavens

As mentioned in a previous blog, the comparison of the Zodiac Sun Signs of the 42 USA presidents is interesting (and how many would have guessed Scorpio is tied with Aquarius for first place), but looking at the Midheavens of the USA presidents proves to be much more striking.

Of the 42 USA presidents, there are unfortunately only 24 where we can be reasonably certain we have the accurate time of birth necessary for the calculation of the Midheaven.

Of those 24, approximately 30% (7) have (had) their Midheaven located in the Zodiac sign of Cancer. For those unaware, the USA's birth Sun is located in the sign of Cancer.

Those seven USA Presidents include Chester A. Arthur, William McKinley, Woodrow Wilson, Harry S. Truman, John F. Kennedy, Jimmy Carter, and Bill Clinton.

Why is this obscure statistic potentially important? John McCain has a Cancer Midheaven. So don't count curmudgeonly MCain down and out just yet... as many in the USA will unconsciously be drawn toward him... and the battle is just beginning...

Happy Birthday Gemini!

2008-05-20T20:29:00.000-04:00

When the Sun enters Gemini the general atmosphere feels lighter, more open and easy-going. Issues of exchange, information, and communication are in the air.

Here is more info about Gemini's:

Gemini, the sign of the Twins, is dual-natured, elusive, complex and contradictory. On the one hand it produces the virtue of versatility, and on the other the vices of two-facedness and flightiness. The sign is linked with Mercury, the planet of childhood and youth, and its subjects tend to have the graces and faults of the young. When they are good, they are very attractive; when they are bad they are more the worse for being the charmers they are. Like children they are lively, and happy, if circumstances are right for them, or egocentric, imaginative and restless. They take up new activities enthusiastically but lack application, constantly needing new interests, flitting from project to project as apparently purposelessly as a butterfly dancing from flower to flower. To them life is a game which must always be full of fresh moves and continuous entertainment, free of labor and routine. Changing horses in the middle of the stream is another small quirk in the Gemini personality which makes decision making, and sticking to a decision, particularly hard for them.

Since they lack the quality of conscientiousness, they are apt to fight a losing battle in any attempts they make to be moral (in the widest sense of the word). Their good qualities are attractive and come easily to them. They are affectionate, courteous, kind, generous, and thoughtful towards the poor and suffering - provided none of the activities resulting from expressing these traits interferes too greatly with their own lives and comforts. They quickly learn to use their outward attractiveness to gain their own ends, and when striving for these they will use any weapon in their armory - unscrupulous lying, and cunning evasiveness; escaping blame by contriving to put it on other people, wrapped up in all the charm they can turn on. In their better moments they may strive to be honest and straightforward, but self-interest is almost always the victor. If things go against them, they sulk like children.

Also like children, they demand attention, admiration, and the spending on them of time, energy and money, throwing tantrums if they don't get what they want. They reflect every change in their surroundings, like chameleons, and can become pessimistic, sullen, peevish and materialistically self-centered if circumstances force them to struggle in any way. If the conditions of life become really adverse, their strength of will may desert them entirely. They can become uncertain of themselves, either withdrawn, or nervously excitable worriers, sullenly discontented, hard and irritable, with "Self" looming ever larger in their struggles. On the other hand their versatility can make them very adaptable, adjusting themselves to control the world around them by means of their inherent ingenuity and cleverness.

Most Gemini have a keen, intuitive, sometimes brilliant intelligence and they love cerebral challenges. But their concentration, though intense for a while, does not last. Their mental agility and energy give them a voracious appetite for knowledge from youth onward, though they dislike the labor of learning. They easily grasp almost everything requiring intelligence and mental dexterity, and are often able to marry manual skills to their qualities of mind. Their intellect is strongly analytical and sometimes gives them so great an ability to see both sides of a question that they vacillate and find it hard to make decisions. But their intelligence may very well be used to control and unify the duality of their natures into a most efficient unit. If faced with difficulties, they have little determination to worry at a problem until they find a solution - they will pick the brains of others. In their intellectual pursuits, as in other departments of their lives, they risk becoming dilettantes, losing themselves in too many projects which they follow until they become difficult.

In love they are fickle, not intentionally so but because of the basic inconsistency of their emotional nature, which has an amoral aspect to it. Their is a side to Geminians which can become deeply involved emotionally, and another, hostile to sentimentality, which stands back from a romantic situation, laughing at it and the protagonists in it, including themselves while analyzing it intellectually. Gemini subjects take nothing seriously. So, in love, in spite of their temporary depth of feeling, for the intensity of involvement lasts only while it is new, they are superficial, light-hearted, cool, flirtatious and unimaginative in the understanding of the pain they may give others. They like intrigue, the excitement of the chase, but once they have caught the prey, they lose interest and look around for the next creature to pursue. In less serious situations they make witty, entertaining companions, good acquaintances rather than friends. Even at their worst they are never dull - there is usually playfulness below the surface, and they can be brilliant conversationalists - but they can also be quarrelsome, prattlers, boasters, liars and cheats.

Geminians can be successful in many walks of life though their general characteristics tend to make them unreliable. They are often skilled manipulators of language, in speech and writing, and may be: debaters, diplomats (though in politics they are more interested in theory than practice), orators, preachers (brilliant rather than profound), teachers, authors, poets, journalists, or lawyers. In business any work which combines quick-wittedness with a change of surroundings suits them; working as a traveling salesperson, brokerage work, or dealing with the public in any capacity is right up their alley. Because they are dispassionate, logical, rational and analytical they make good scientists, especially in the fields of medicine and astronomy. They can also make excellent members of the Armed Forces, for they take danger no more seriously than anything else and can earn themselves a reputation for devotion to duty and heroic acts. In the arts they may excel in music, painting and sculpture. They make good psychic researchers of a sceptical kind. Negatively they can degenerate into confidence tricksters, thieves and even adepts in the black arts.

Possible Health Concerns...

Gemini rules the arms, shoulders, hands, lungs and nervous system and its subjects need to beware of diseases and accidents associated with the upper part of the body, as well as nervous and pulmonary disorders such as catarrh and bronchitis. Their mercurial nature may also affect a constitution which is not strong if it is put under strain.

You are prone to taking unnecessary risks and wind up harming yourself or others in the process. Sometimes pursuing pleasure too vigorously could also qualify as risk taking.

LIKES
Talking
Novelty and the unusual
Variety in life
Multiple projects all going at once
Reading

DISLIKES
Feeling tied down
Learning, such as school
Being in a rut
Mental inaction
Being alone

PROBLEMS THAT MAY ARISE FOR YOU, AND THEIR SOLUTIONS

As with all sun signs, we all have unique traits to our personalities. When these traits are suppressed, or unrealized, problems will arise. However, with astrology we can examine the problem and assess the proper solution based on the sun sign characteristics. As a Gemini you may see things below that really strike home. Try the solution, you most likely will be amazed at the results. If you find yourself on the receiving end of the negatives below, it is because you are failing to express the positive.

PROBLEM: Being superficial could be a big problem for you in your overall relationships with others and also in getting ahead on many jobs where you must endeavor to dig deep and learn something thoroughly. This is the worst Gemini trait of all.

SOLUTION: To make a conscious effort to control this trait is the best approach to take to this problem. If you make a commitment to something or someone you should mentally force yourself to keep that commitment where possible. This will be hard but it can, and has been, accomplished by many under this sign.

PROBLEM: Not one who cares for peace and quiet, you create your own problems with loved ones by picking arguments or tale carrying from one to the other then stand back and enjoy the show.

SOLUTION: While this may relieve your boredom, it is something that you should not let happen as it could easily go out of control and cost you the love and companionship that you desire. When you feel like doing this it would be better to take a long walk and let the feelings pass.

PROBLEM: Boredom is one of your biggest problems and you could easily fall into mischief if you do not find ways to alleviate it.

SOLUTION: You have a great many creative talents and if you put these to work for you in some sort of hobby or project you will find you do not have time to be bored, also, other physical activities should be considered: workouts at the gym, racketball, hiking, etc..

PROBLEM: You could have health problems brought on by overindulgence of food, drink, or the night life which only gets worse as you age.

SOLUTION: Tame your urges and save the party times for weekends only and then try not to overdo it. By keeping everything down to a mild roar you may not have to fight off diseases such as obesity or cirrhosis of the liver.

PROBLEM: You may have the problem of not being able to keep a spouse or a lover due to your pursuit of the opposite sex.

SOLUTION: Cultivate the habit of not flirting with every attractive person you see and make up your mind to be a true and loving spouse, or don't commit until you are really ready to do this.

Your ruling planet is Mercury

Mean distance from the Sun (AU) 0.387
Sidereal period of orbit (years) 0.24
Equatorial radius (km) 2,439
Polar radius (km) 2,439
Body rotation period (hours) 1,408
Tilt of equator to orbit (degrees) 0
Number of observed satellites 0

Some more interesting facts about your sign:

While no animal appears to be associated with your sign other than the wolf in which is seen to be the nurturing force for another set of 'twins', romulas and remus. The twins themselves are their own sign representatives.

The color of choice for Mercury in Gemini is Yellow

Your starstone is the agate. It has been shown to be beneficial to the health of Geminis who are suffering from circulatory problems and has been shown as an aid to getting your intuitive feelings tuned to a higher pitch. It is also an aid to relieving depression. There is another gemstone which is used for Gemini and that is the emerald, but the agate vibrates to the levels of your ruling planet, Mercury, and therefore is much more beneficial for you.

This is an excellent analysis too...

Full Moon 5/19/08

2008-05-18T21:11:00.000-04:00

Full Moon tomorrow (the 19th) which is likely to be an intense one. Not only is it the second Scorpio Full Moon in a series, but it is at the last degree of Scorpio. The 29th degree is sometimes called the "anaretic" degree, or the "karmic" degree, because it is like the final exam. By the 29th degree we are by necessity learning any lessons of that sign that we have not yet assimilated before we can move into the next sign.

All of this is part of a major Yod to the South Node that occurs on the 21st and incorporates a conjunction of Chiron to the North Node. A Yod, or "Finger of Fate" aspect, is an event of great significance of which the Apex planet (in this case, the South Node) is the key. The importance of the South Node shows that there will be an illumination of an episode from the past (South Node) that is brought into the current time period so that patterns of behavior can be alchemized into new modes of behavior and thinking that are more useful to us.

Traditional astrologers consider the South Node to be malefic, but that is because there is a tendency with the South Node to be drawn into behaviors that hold us back from our soul's evolution. When we are on a path of conscious understanding and awareness it becomes easier to let go of our attachment to the dramas that previously we considered our reality.

In many ways, the Full Moon in Scorpio is about letting go of those attachments. Scorpio has a tendency to hold on to the emotional drama and create an intense story that becomes a part of our identity. During the Full Moon the lunar instinctive energies (now in Scorpio) overcome the solar conscious mind (working with the Taurus dynamic of stability and peaceful existence). Achieving a balance between these two is the goal now as we move with the Moon from Scorpio's last degree into the more expansive climate of Sagittarius with its optimism and love of adventure.

After the culmination of the Full Moon we'll be able to assimilate all of the information downloaded during the previous week of intensity when Mercury forms a trine to Chiron on the 23rd and facilitates the healing process and the deepening into wisdom of any challenges that we faced during the cathartic Scorpio Full Moon. Because Mercury and Chiron are both moving very slowly now, this trine will be in effect for at least a week between the 21st and the end of the month during which time we'll have two more retrogrades: Mercury and Neptune, both on the 26th.

link

Thought for the day

2008-05-18T21:05:00.000-04:00

Thought for the day

2008-05-15T22:15:00.000-04:00

“Believe nothing.
No matter where you read it,
Or who said it,
Even if I have said it,
Unless it agrees with your own reason
And your own common sense.”

~ Buddha
6th century bce Indian mystic and founder of Buddhism
from The Dhammapada

Explaining the elements in Astrology

2008-05-14T20:51:00.000-04:00

This is a little astrology lesson on the elements. In astrology, you will hear certain signs associated with four different elements: Fire, Earth, Air, & Water. The Fire signs are Aries, Leo & Saggitarius. The Earth signs are Taurus, Virgo & Capricorn. Air signs are Gemini, Libra & Aquarius. And water signs are Cancer, Scopio & Pisces. Here is a way to understand what energies they represent:

Fire - "Ecstatic Expression"

About: The free flow of divine creative energy in a positive, uplifting fashion.
Without Fire: There would be no spark, no radiant expression, no conviction.
Weakness: The unintentional identification of ego/self with the divine, creative energy flowing through oneself, leading to an excessive self-centeredness and exaggerated sense of self-importance.

Earth - "Humble Embodiment"

About: Embodying. Focusing on the present moment, present life, and being realistic/intelligent enough to perfect this reality.
Without Earth: We would all be up in the clouds (emotions), in the air (thinking), or in the imagination (fire). There would be no actualization.
Weakness: Attachment and stinginess. Clinging to physical things, resistance to change, overfocusing on physical, temporal details rather than the larger spiritual picture or the heart.

Air - "Human Relating"

About: The love of people with freedom and non-attachment. The use of the intellect in service to humanity.
Without Air: There would be no ability to appreciate differences and different perspectives. There would be no unified humanitarian vision.
Weakness: A difficulty with feeling emotion, leading to depression and/or a lack of true connection with Self and others. An overactive mind, or addiction to learning that blocks deeper peace and awareness.

Water - "Spiritual Unity"

About: Harmony with Spirit through Spiritual Surrender, leading to co-operation with Divinity, which then manifests through loving presence, service, and/or creative arts. The removal of selfish instincts from loving, giving, and having.
Without Water: No compassion. No surrender.
Weakness: Attachment. Addiction to emotional obsession, victimization, insecurity, defensiveness, and pain. Inability to separate and work on the self before appropriate merger with others, with Spirit, etc.

Sweet smells banish pain

2008-05-14T14:28:00.000-04:00

Sweet smells banish pain
13:14 20 June 02

The sweet scent of roses or almonds could take some of the pain out of
your stay in hospital. But only if you're a woman.

Serge Marchand and Pierre Arsenault at the University of Québec in
Abitibi-Témiscamingue asked 20 men and 20 women to keep their hand
immersed in painfully hot water for as long as they could while smelling
various odours. When given pleasant aromas such as almond extract to
sniff, the women experienced significantly less pain. Foul smells such
as vinegar seemed to slightly intensify their pain. However, the pain
felt by the men was not affected by the smells.

Physiology and Behaviour

Both sexes reported feeling happier in the presence of good smells,
while bad smells put them in a worse mood. But this effect on the
emotions can't be what changed the women's perception of pain. If it
was, the men should have responded in the same way.

Women are typically more sensitive to odours than men. But this also
can't explain why only women feel the pain-relief benefits, because the
women in the study didn't rate the intensity of smells differently from
the men.

Pleasant sensations of touch are known to activate an area of the
brain's frontal cortex used for taste and smell. So it's possible that
smells could be altering the sensory processing of touch, pain and
temperature by affecting this part of the brain in women.
More at: Physiology and Behavior (vol 76, p 251)

Spring

2008-05-14T12:50:00.000-04:00

"Be like a flower and turn your face to the sun."
- Kahlil Gibran

Zen thought

2008-05-13T22:33:00.001-04:00

"Before a man studies Zen, to him mountains are mountains and waters are waters;after he gets an insight into the truth of Zen through the instruction of a good master, mountains to him are not mountains and waters are not waters; but after this when he really attains to the abode of rest, mountains are once more mountains and waters are waters." (Essays in Zen Buddhism – First Series 24)

I begin again

2008-05-13T21:48:00.000-04:00

Decided it was time to begin blogging again. Opened a new business bank account, and will advertise my oils, Blessings-in-a Bags, and astrological services once I have my ducks in a row.

Need to get up a new website too; but I think I have spotted what I need.

I feel good about getting started.

I named my new bank account - 'Abundance.' Heh.