Aquarium Age - Transformational Astrology

The planets continue being busy this week and daily life reflects that activity in a thousand tasks, big and small, important and not so much. Last week was so jammed with things to do that it was hard to remember that Mars Retrograde usually puts the brakes on regular routines. But the hustle and bustle sparked recognition that a normally lethargic Mars Retrograde is not so sluggish in the Sign of Gemini, the Sign that signifies the mind—and most of us know just how busy the mind can be. Yet what’s interesting about this current Mars Retrograde in Gemini is just how much is getting done. It may be that things put off for COVID-19 reasons or from rationalizations are finally getting taken care of—retrogrades of any kind are a good time to take care of what’s been put on the shelf. Nevertheless, this phase still feels busier than anticipated and we are only halfway through it—Mars Retrograde continues until January 12, 2023. We may feel the energy get sluggish toward the end of Mars’ retrograde cycle, but only because it collides with Mercury Retrograde from December 29 to January 18.

The dominant astral news this week is an opposition between the Sun in Sagittarius and that ongoing retrograde Mars, joined by the full Moon in Gemini. A Sun/Mars opposition agitates the air with an aggressive attitude and a willingness to fight for the things that matter to you—sometimes just for the pure pleasure of fighting, but most of the time this opposition fuels a need to protect and defend what you hold most precious. This opposition occurs between the two Signs of the zodiac that are interested in information and knowledge, so utilize the tension of this aspect to examine your belief systems before you go to battle.

With the Moon, the planet of feelings, in a conjunction with Mars, feelings that arise now are likely to be much more than a passing fancy, heightening tensions. Everyone is affected by this conjunction, which means that most of us will be in a hyper-reactive emotional state. This Sun/Moon/Mars combination is exact and separating starting tonight. The Moon is the first to move out of this tight formation—it starts to move out of its exact opposition to the Sun at 11:08 PM EST, and begins to separate from Mars ten minutes later at 11:18 PM EST. The Sun/Mars opposition is exact and separating at 12:41 AM EST.

All week long, as this cranky configuration pulls apart, we’re likely to see tempers flare and even normally calm people succumb to a hyper-agitated state. Arguments you thought were resolved are likely to linger, while others, less emotionally based, will last for a couple of days but by the end of the week, their potency will evaporate.

There are lots of reasons to practice patience this week, so do whatever it is you do to maintain your equilibrium, internal and external. It’s also a good week to make kindness your first choice. I know I always advise compassion—and I always mean it—but when tempers are testy and people are looking for a fight simply to blow off steam, kindness becomes a necessary remedy for a belligerent environment. Take your stand if you must, but also try to be empathetic.

We’re only two weeks away from the winter solstice, the quietest time of the year, when the trees and other plants dig down deep into the earth and strengthen their roots. So rather than get caught in the intensity of this Sun/Moon/Mars signature, mimic the plant world by digging deep within and strengthening your roots.

Sun Bursts:  If you know your Ascendant and/or your Moon Sign, read that too.

Aries March 21-April 19
Mars continues to focus on communication and you continue to have a lot to say. Have at it, but remember that words can have a profound effect. They can be used as weapons or as a healing balm, soothing the soul and encouraging the heart.

Taurus April 20-May 20
Mars continues to shine the spotlight on money matters, and while finances can be difficult for lots of us, bringing awareness to your finances—how you spend your money and why—offers lots of growth opportunities. Seize this moment—and grow.

Gemini May 21-June 21
Try not to be dismayed if you lose your cool and start yelling at significant others, personal or professional. I am not suggesting that losing your temper would be beneficial; I am advising you to acknowledge just how deeply your frustration is rooted.

Cancer June 22-July 22
Try not to let your anger become a brain worm that thrives on endlessly chewing through all the details of every experience with anyone who has ever done you wrong. Give up the blame game and instead focus on how you can restore your inner equilibrium.

Leo July 23-August 22
Mars continues to focus on community participation and while you may not be interested in joining a group of any kind, you would benefit by knowing what your options are. I’m not suggesting you join the choir, but I think you might have fun if you do.

Virgo August 23-September 22
Career concerns dominate as Mars stirs deep ambitions, and even if you are retired, you might still find yourself thinking about going back to work. Remember, whatever we focus on becomes our reality, so pay close attention to the details of your desire.

Libra September 23-October 22
You can argue your way through the week and spend the currency of this Sun/Moon/Mars configuration focusing on all the things that aren’t working the way they should. Or you can diffuse disagreements by finding win/win solutions for everyone—even you.

Scorpio October 23-November 21
Conflicts with partners about how to spend money—yours or theirs—won’t serve anyone, so make an effort to make love rather than war, even if the expenditures don’t make sense. You don’t have to approve; you simply need to extend empathy to your partners.

Sagittarius November 22-December 21
I’m not sure that divorce is your only option—I could be wrong, but if you review your behavior as well as that of your partner, you just might find that your irritation is a joint effort. Rather than point a finger of blame, take a breath and assume some responsibility.

Capricorn December 22-January 19
Do your best to sidestep the winter blues brought on by shorter and darker days and instead devote yourself to a project that will distract you from any seasonal disorders. A mind engaged in creative efforts often emerges victorious when the sky is bleak.

Aquarius January 20-February 18
Continue to devote yourself to creative self-expression—if you’re already immersed in a project or projects, have at it, but don't be surprised if you find yourself inspired to start a new endeavor. This is a rich creative phase and you would be wise to seize the moment.

Pisces February 19-March 20
Use the power of Mars Retrograde to help you continue sorting through all those organizational projects you began at the beginning of the retrograde. Yes, it is hard work, and at times really boring, but you’ll be pleased with the results once the projects are finished.