Spinoza (1632 – 1677)

“All the cosmos is a single substance of which we are a part. God is not an external manifestation, but everything that is.”

~ Baruch Spinoza

It’s about nine months since my last Philosophy blog, which was about the Scorpio Philosopher Voltaire, so permit me to carry on…!  For those of you who find the subject tedious, you’ll be glad to know I only have three more on the agenda (Capricorn to Pisces).  But this one belongs to Spinoza.

Sagittarius is the Philosopher’s birth sign, although as far as I am aware Spinoza was not “into” Astrology.  Contemporary Isaac Newton (1643 –1727) born only eleven years later, but longer lived, famously did give a nod to Astrology; in a retort to Edmond Halley (1656 – 1742), Newton told him “I have studied the matter, you have not!”

All that is by the by, for Astrology may not have been any concern of this notable Philosopher of Philosophers.  He may not have lived for more than 45 years, but his impact on his subject is immense.  He was a forerunner of the Age of Enlightenment.

Birth Chart

Fortunately, we do have a birth time for him.  Spinoza had 5 Fixed and 5 Mutable planets (high stubbornness and high adaptability) but 0 Cardinal (an absence of the wish to lead).  In his Element count, he had 0 Air planets, which meant that he operated mostly on instinct.

His Sun in Sagittarius was closely conjunct Saturn, meaning that he could mentally travel between the Universal (Sagittarius) to the particular (Saturn).  His Moon was exactly opposite Neptune, giving him the Mystic Archetype.  Caroline Myss writes of the Mystic Archetype:

“Follows selfless path of practice to achieve union with the Divine or a state of enlightenment that manifests as service to others, and

Consistently places inner knowledge above material concerns”

Spinoza had Ascendant, Chiron and the North Node in Aries, so to some extent he used himself as a measurement for his theories (as did Arien Descartes).  But his researches were deeper, as testified by his Mercury in Scorpio opposite Pluto.  In addition, his Mercury was closely opposite Jupiter, showing a wide ranging mind, balancing logic and expansive thinking (an echo of his Sagittarian Sun conjunct Saturn, as described above).  The North Node loosely conjunct Chiron, described a karmic mission dedicated to solving the mysteries of life.  He also had the Warrior Archetype, in Mars exactly trine the North Node, something he needed to deal with the slings and arrows of his life, although he tended to deliberately avoid conflict. Jupiter was conjunct Pluto in his chart, denoting Power, particularly religious power.  His work had power, and was intensely religious, but at the same time offended Jews and Christians, partly for his pantheistic ideas.  Uranus square Midheaven describes the controversial nature of his career, and work in the world, while Uranus trine Pluto saw him become an unapologetic agent of Change.  Chiron in Aries loosely conjunct Ascendant made him a challenging personality to be around, and emphasized the problem-solving nature of his task in life.

Life and Career

Spinoza was born in Amsterdam, to a Jewish family who had fled Portugal.  His father was a merchant, and Spinoza was steeped at an early age in the Hebrew sacred texts.  His mother died when he was six years old.  His father hoped he would become a rabbi.  However, as a young man, he came to challenge and question this very tradition, and he was expelled from his Jewish community on 27^th July 1656 (he was 23 at the time).  His transits paint a telling picture: Yes it was painful (the transiting Nodal Axis squaring his Chiron rising), but there is an element of divine intervention or blessing about it with Pluto sextile his Chiron and Jupiter opposite his natal Saturn (both transits freeing him).

Philosophical enquiry then took over as his main area of research, and among his early influences were the Greek Stoics, Thomas Hobbes (1588 – 1679) and Rene Descartes (1596-1650, see my blog dated 20/1/2020). He started to built up a following (the equivalent of a modern day influencer!).

The extent of his work was vast, and incorporated metaphysics, epistemology, political philosophy, ethics, among other branches of philosophy.  He moved to the Hague in 1670, in order to be at the centre of his supporters.  His Progressed  Sun at the time trined his natal Moon in 1^st House, depicting a more congenial habitat for him.

Philosophy

His main work was the “Ethica”.

Here are some of his tenets, taken from “Spinoza – A Very Short Introduction” by Roger Scruton:

“What, then, is the relation of the mind to the body?

Descartes fudged this issue, and it proved to be the major reason for dissatisfaction with the Cartesian system.”

“Everything in the world exists by necessity, and that it could not be other than it is”.

“Spinoza’s answer to the riddle of existence can be put succinctly: all things that exist, exist necessarily, in thoroughgoing interdependence.”

“Spinoza’s answer to the riddle of existence can be put succinctly: all things that exist, exist necessarily, in thoroughgoing interdependence.”

But, don’t take it from me.  I have the resident expert, who is continuing to study the subject with Cambridge University…

After I completed two Philosophy Certificates and one Diploma, hubby elected to carry on, and has made Spinoza his specialist subject.  I decided to keep writing Volume III of my trilogy of novels, “The Quiet Office” (tagline “Windows to the Future”).

I hereby give him voice to put my blog right!  He says:

‘I would like to offer a quotation from Bertrand Russell’s “History of Western Philosophy”, where he says:

“Spinoza (1632 – 1677) is the noblest and most lovable of the great philosophers.  Intellectually, some others have surpassed him, but ethically he is supreme.”

I would add that not only was he ethically supreme but he was Einstein’s philosopher of choice because Spinoza explained everything in his metaphysics and gave a place for nature’s laws that made sense.  His ideas on psychology, the mind and ethics have been accepted by many modern-day practitioners.

Regarding nature’s laws one of Spinoza’s most famous phrases is “Deus sive Natura”, i.e. God or nature.  God and Nature are interchangeable and so he asserted that everything exists as part of a single, unified reality.’

Death

Spinoza’s death was sudden, due to a lung infection (Saturn opposite his natal Mercury in Scorpio in his 8^th House).  The condition was probably due to dust produced by the grinding of his lenses.  After his death, his followers ensured that his writings were published, in Latin and Dutch.

“Spinoza sets forth a vision of Being, illuminated by his awareness of God. They may seem strange at first sight. To the question “What is?” he replies: “Substance, its attributes, and modes”.

~ Karl Jaspers

Aspects

If I have counted correctly, there are 17 astrological features to pay attention to this week.  I think that’s a record (in the nineteen years of writing this blog).  You may want to digest the “aspects” (though not all of them are aspects) one day at a time!

Starting with today, we have a conjunction of Mercury and Mars at 26 degrees Capricorn, a dynamic start to the week.  Get going!  This conjunction may assist you in getting things done.  It brings brisk action, mental and physical stimulation, and again can help movement in your projects.  There is a small element of risk of being incident-prone, as in minor cuts and bruises.  So mindfulness is a key to successful outcomes.  The conjunction is mentally acute and favours critical thinking, if you are composing an analysis, a review or critique.

We then have a New Moon at 29 degrees Capricorn.  If you are using the optimum Capricorn energy, you could have good results today, especially if you are starting a new project connected with organization, politics, and relations with authority and the institutions of society.  As it is the first New Moon of the year, it may be particularly pertinent to set your intentions, firm up your new year’s resolutions, polish up your affirmations, and sharpen your creative visualizations, for the year ahead!

Thirdly, we have a sextile between Mercury and Saturn, signalling that thoughts and feelings can be channelled and harnessed into constructive plans and ideas.  Mental foundations can be laid.  The aspect favours documentation and again knuckling down to form-filling etc.  Geminis and Virgos have the chance to regain their balance, if they need to.

Moving on to tomorrow (Monday 19^th), we have four features to negotiate, the first being Mercury trine Uranus.  This can bring mental brilliance, technological upgrades, lightbulb moments, and futuristic inspiration can be yours.  The mind will be uplifted, and computers and I.T. devices given or received, will be on good form and working satisfyingly well (famous last words…!).   It’s a good opportunity for people to apply their minds and receive flashes of intuitive solutions for the problems that beset us, personally, collectively and globally.

Aspect No. 2 for tomorrow/Monday 19^th (keep track of the days, so that you can keep track of each discrete feature, if you are playing along…!) is a sextile between the Sun and Neptune:  a congenial note.  The saying may go that you can’t make a silk purse out of a sow’s ear, but the Sun sextile Neptune gives you the best chance of creating beauty and inspiration in your life.  If spiritual harmony, poetry and creativity are some of the goals and aspirations you have this year, you can safely and profitably cultivate them on Monday, or at least a portion of Monday!

The third feature for Monday is the entry of the Sun into Aquarius.  With the Sun in Aquarius, we are more open to embracing Change, as we emerge from the stiffness of winter, like snowdrops from the ground.  We still have a way to go before Spring, but are ready to look at different ways of being.

And lastly on Monday, Venus will be conjunct with Pluto at 3 degrees Aquarius, introducing a deeper psychological element into the day’s complexities.  There is much more reflection about the enormity of change, and the impact on humanity.  You may need to do some soul-searching in order to have a handle on your feelings.  In your interactions, deep honesty may be required. A strong dose of chamomile tea and lavender may be needed all round, e.g. in the case of emotional upheaval.

Phew, two days down, seven features already.  You’d think the “aspects” would slow down, but they are still coming thick and fast, for Tuesday (20^th) brings five astrological features…

We start with the sextile between Saturn and Uranus: It’s a major aspect and enables stabilization.  This is a time when you can do something for yourself which is constructive.  You may have a joint venture with someone which is new and innovative, but need a steadying force.  Make no mistake, this is the most important aspect of the week, balancing the old and the new.

Next on Tuesday Mars trines Uranus.  You are likely to see, or initiate, bold and controversial moves.  It favours mechanical and engineering enterprises, but also social engineering, and sporting interests.  There could be surprises in connection with men, cars and dogs!

In contrast, but part of the same complex of aspects, Mars then sextiles Saturn, an aspect which will give you the tools you need and possibly the opportunity to put into practice a project or scheme which you may have been trying to get to for some while.  It is good for both beginning and finishing practical and active projects, e.g. for putting that final piece in a jigsaw.  Some solid ground can be gained with the boost of this aspect, especially in the later waking hours of the day.  You can firm up ideas which have come to you under the previous aspect of Mars trine Uranus.

The fourth aspect on Tuesday is Mercury sextile Neptune, which ushers in an influx of intense imagination.  This aspect will assist you in refining your mindset, because our minds will be open to receiving higher guidance more easily.  Delicate conversations and channelling will also be made easier.  Artistic efforts may also be rewarded.

And lastly on Tuesday, Mercury enters Aquarius.  You may see a surge in space-age related news items and influences.  Technology, too will flourish, and more conjectures and possible concerns about the implications of A.I. (e.g. avoiding Grok).

We have reached mid-week, Wednesday (21^st), when the Sun will be conjunct Mercury in Aquarius.  That brings a touch of sparkle to your consciousness.  It is a good day to apply your mind with clarity, concentrate and focus, make important statements, and look to the future.  You may write or speak some memorable lines.  Look out for some telepathy, too!  You may feel the urge to clarify something.

That’s it, for Wednesday.

Thursday (22^nd) brings with it a conjunction between Mercury and Pluto, at 3 degrees Aquarius.  This is about serious thought and communication. Words will have a profound effect.  Deeper motives may be revealed.  Listening too is important, and exchanges may become cathartic, if sincerely transacted.

That’s it for Thursday.

A further three features remain for Friday (23^rd), beginning with Mars sextile Neptune. Though we have energy this week, through a great deal of activity with Mars, here it is softened, made more gentle, and spiritualized by virtue of the involvement of Neptune.  It brings refinement to your actions and activities.  This favours flowing exercise such as Tai Chi, Qijong and Yoga.  Combining the physical with the spiritual is ideal, and achievable.  So go for your ideal spiritual fitness regime.

Mars again stars in the next feature, another ingress, that of its entry into Aquarius, shifting another planet into that sign, and taking away from Capricorn.  You may feel that you have tied up some loose ends while Mars was in its recent stint Capricorn, and are able to turn your attention to wider social ventures, such as supporting the underdog or encouraging community projects.  Mars in Aquarius is about teamwork, but also about activating friendships (e.g. engaging in shared leisure interests together).  Mars will be in Aquarius until early March.

The last aspect of the week, and also on Friday 23^rd, will be a conjunction between the Sun and Pluto at 3 degrees of Aquarius.  There may be some drama to be played out today (that may be the date of the finale of The Traitors!).  Today could be a profound wake-up call, both personally and collectively.  Practicing meditation and calming techniques would be a good way to proceed on the day as the deeper issues of life come up for assessment.  Any creativity will have depth to it, and you won’t be able to skim the surface of things. But you will emerge the richer for it.

The week in bullet points:

• Today – brisk action; new beginning; applied mental energy
• Tomorrow – mental brilliance; spiritual creativity; openness to Change; emotional depth
• Tuesday – balancing the old and the new; bold moves; applied energy; imagination; focus on technology
• Wednesday – sparkling concentration
• Thursday – depth of thought and speech
• Friday – spiritual movement and energy; collective action; drama

Capricorn Archetypes

I am writing about the Capricorn Archetypes today, before the month of Capricorn is out.  This is the penultimate of my series specifically on astrological Archetypes.  It’s been fun…although the Capricorn version may be on the serious side!  It is time to embrace the potential of this sign, turning the spotlight on its Archetypes.

A few words about Capricorn:  If you have Capricorn Sunsign, you may be accused of having your cup half full.  But they who accuse you are mere fools…you are just being realistic!

So, following as usual, are some thoughts I highlighted back in my 2015 blog, and then some examples of Capricorn and its Archetypes, including from history:

“Politician

The Politician Archetype represents the role of Capricorn in the outside world, associated with its 10th House of Career and Capricorn’s gift for administration.  I created a Past Life Archetype for South Node in Capricorn in an article of 2010 which encapsulates much about Capricorn’s association with Politics:

Archetype:  The Politician

Place: Russia

Time: 1905

“My name is Piotr, and I whisper in the corridors of power. But even the whispering has rules. You speak only when you are spoken to by someone above your rank. You only speak that which is necessary and the bare minimum and for a serious purpose.  Every word is weighed carefully.  And information is classified, on a need-to-know basis.  Sssh!  I cannot tell you anything at the moment.  Sometimes you’d think this was an old Trappist monastery.”

Hermit

At the opposite end of the spectrum and paradoxically withdrawing from the world, the Hermit also expresses part of the Capricornian psyche.  Capricorn men in a family often play the role of the strong, silent type, which is a type of withdrawal.

This Archetype has features in common with Pisces (spiritual retreat) and Virgo (“I want to be alone”, uttered by Greta Garbo who was a Virgo).  I see the Capricorn manifestation as less of a spiritual retreat than the Piscean manifestation.  In Tarot, Saturn (Capricorn’s ruler) is often ascribed to The Hermit, because of its association with Old Father time (Chronos).

One of the variations of Hermit is the Recluse.  One whose name was synonymous with reclusivity is Howard Hughes:

Famous Example: Howard Hughes

Millionaire Howard Hughes famously took refuge in the Desert Inn, where apparently he did not open the curtains for 9 years.  He had Sun/Uranus in Capricorn in 4th House of Home.  When he began his reclusive behaviour Pluto was square his natal Venus (a major change in relating to others).

The Patriarch

The Patriarch is a Capricorn Archetype, the polar opposite being the Mother of the Cancerian Sun sign.

Under “the Father” for the Leo Archetypes, I wrote:

“Shared with the sign of Capricorn, this Archetype in its Leo manifestation brings up a feeling of Protectiveness and Guidance.  The Capricorn manifestation is more authoritarian and disciplined in nature.”

The Leo Father Archetype is closer to the Creator and is more playful, whereas the related Capricorn Archetype of the Patriarch has more gravitas.

In Caroline Myss’ book “Sacred Contracts” (and she is making no distinction between the Father and the Patriarch) she writes: “This archetype combines a talent for creating or initiating with the ability to oversee others, whether a biological family or a group of creative people”.

Crone

A word about ageing, zodiacwise: Geminis are known for looking and acting ever youthfully.  Capricorns are known for having an old head on young shoulders when young, and growing old gracefully into their old age as their prime of life.

So we have as a Capricorn Archetype the Crone, or Wise Woman.  Again quoting from Caroline Myss: “Wisdom also comes with age, and so the Crone or Wise Woman represents the ripening of natural insight and the acceptance of what is, allowing one to pass that wisdom to others.”  Again we have a hint of the qualities of patience and forbearance of Capricorn and Old Father Time Saturn, a sense of knowing that All Things Must Pass.

In her Shamanic system, Nicky Scully uses the Crone as a major player on her healing journeys: “It is this Crone, the wise, old female aspect of yourself, who opens your third eye and begins instructing you on the ways of intuition, herbs, and healing.”

Other Archetypes

The Administrator/Organizer

Capricorn is a Cardinal sign.  Cardinal  is one of three Quadruplicities (the other two are Fixed and Mutable).  The qualities of the Cardinal signs are Enterprise, Administration and Organization.  You often see Capricorns climb the ladder of ambition in their particular field, much as the mountain goat climbs the mountain.  There at the top (and it may take them a good few years, but they have patience and determination), they partake of the roles at the top of their profession, e.g. as CEOs, Company Secretaries, or Ofsted Inspectors, etc.

The qualities of Administration and Organization are strong within them, particularly if they are born on the cusp of Capricorn-to-Aquarius (around 19^th/20^th January).  Capricorns can do well in the Civil Service, and I know several who have flourished in the teaching profession (which holds a great deal of responsibility).  Aspiring Capricornian teachers do best if they have an accompanying Moon or Ascendant in Gemini (The Teacher Archetype) or Leo (The Performer).

The Pathfinder

The Pathfinder Archetype relates to the leadership role suggested by Capricorn as one of the Cardinal signs.  I wrote about this in relation to the Wolf totem.

Again from 2015:

“About 20 years ago [as of 2015!], I submitted a feature to “Kindred Spirit” magazine about Wolf totem, and its association as pathfinder and teacher with Capricorn.  The article wasn’t printed, but they wrote another article in response, and printed an accreditation with our names (it was co-written by myself and my Capricornian daughter).

Wolf is the Teacher in the sense of being an Elder, imparting wisdom born of experience.  It is this quality which links him with Capricorn.

The “lean and hungry look” of Cassius in Julius Caesar also links to Capricorn’s physicality, an attribute of wolf.

Famous Example: Kevin Costner

Kevin Costner has Sun closely conjunct Chiron in Capricorn and North Node in Capricorn, and was driven to make the film “Dances with Wolves” in which he starred as hero.  I believe he was tapping into a Native American past life, and indeed he had karma with the Native Americans even in this lifetime, as later there was a dispute over rights to land, but he also set up an educational centre in relation to the history of the bison and the Native Americans.”

The Curmudgeon

The Carmudgeon is an Archetype of old age (the Capricorn season of life), whereby some Capricornians adopt the persona of Victor Meldrew, as played by Richard Wilson in One Foot in the Grave.  Hubby belongs to a group who meet regularly, under the title of “The Grumpy Old Gits”.  They begin by listing all their current ailments, but to be fair they then relax and allow the irony of life, and the laughter to take over. Of course, the current state of the World and Politics are a common subject of discourse, politics being equated with Capricorn.  As far as I know, none of them have a Capricorn Sun, but their self-designated title does speak of Capricorn!

Historical/more in-depth Examples

The Mountaineer

Apa Sherpa (b 20/1/60)

Apa Sherpa, or to give him his full birth name, Lhakpa Tenzing Sherpa, is a Nepalese mountaineer who has held a record for the number of times he climbed Mount Everest and reached the summit.  He achieved the ascents between 1990 and 2011.  He met Edmund Hillary on many occasions.  His father died when he was 12, and he took  on the family responsibilities, looking after his mother and siblings.  This is a Capricornian role, the old head on young shoulders.  He left school, and found a job working as a porter for mountaineering groups.  His Sun is right at the end of Capricorn, at 29 degrees of that sign. His Sun ruler, Saturn, is strengthened with a close sextile to the Sun itself.

The Politician

Richard Nixon (9/1/1913 – 22/4/1994)

The 37th President of the United States, was among other things known for the Watergate scandal.  His was the first political autobiography I ever read, and I took a keen interest in his story in the early 1970s.  He had the Sun in Capricorn, together with Mercury and Jupiter. His duplicitous nature was down to his Sun being opposite Neptune.  He had the Critic Archetype, Mercury exactly conjunct Mars.  Taken with Jupiter in a triple conjunction, he learned a skill in debate at school, which stood him in good stead.  That he had a temper may be seen in his natal opposition between Mars and Pluto.  An overweening desire for power is shown in Jupiter opposite Pluto.  He was the “Politician” par excellent, in its more negative connotation (but he did achieve a lot, too), though many politicians are well-meaning and motivated to try to improve the world.

You may notice that with your Capricorn family, friends and acquaintances, some of them have more than one of these Archetypes.  While the Sun is in Capricorn (until 19^th January, this year), you can connect with your own Capricorn Archetypes, or Saturnian qualities if you do not have any Capricorn planets, and explore their potential.  Give some warmth to your local Capricorn, as sometimes they can feel unappreciated!  Capricornians like to organize themselves (and sometimes others) with rules and regulations, synchronizing with the New Year’s sense of resolve!

Aspects

There’s a lot  of astrological weather this week, so you might find this week eventful!

We start with Chiron square Venus today, which highlights self-nursing and relationship issues.  You may, for instance, be having to rest a knee through over-exertion, or you may be having to examine a relationship wound.  If there is an emotional crisis, then healing could be nearby – if in doubt, go within.

Tomorrow, Monday (12^th) finds us with a square between Chiron and the Sun, so the theme  of dealing with wounds continues.  A dilemma may be posed, a problem to be solved, or even a healing crisis to be soothed.  It is a time to hone your Inner Healer, both for your self-healing, and for anyone who comes into your orbit.

Jupiter opposes Mercury on Wednesday (14^th) so you may find you have a balancing act to manage.  This aspect is mentally stimulating but can lead to mental resources being overstretched.  Travel news may also be quite testing, e.g. people being in long queues.  Jupiter opposite Mercury is a learning curve, and can bring out some humour, but needs some caution in the playing.

Saturn also sextiles Uranus, an opportunity to balance the old with the new.  Pay attention to your values, and make sure you are not throwing the baby out with the bathwater.  Otherwise, this is a very constructive and important aspect, enabling stabilization and moving forward.  This is a time when you can do something for yourself which is meaningful.  You may have a joint venture with someone which is new and innovative, but need a steadying force.

On Thursday (15^th) Venus forms a sextile with Saturn.  Relationships need consideration, and will repay the time and loyalty you give them.  It is a helpful aspect for laying the foundations of artistic or musical work.  Any paranoid fears may be allayed and steadied.

It really is Venus’ day, for she also forms a trine with Uranus.  This could be good news for Taureans and Librans.  This aspect can bring exciting meetings!  You may for instance bump into an old friend.  The aspect may set you up with insights, or bring other encounters of the illuminating kind.  In the field of the Arts, it can bring originality and surprise, e.g. to a performance of music or a pantomime.  Ideas for assisting the problems in our society may also crop up, such as community-based solutions.

A square between Chiron and Mercury on Friday (16^th) may bring a few hitches, however, especially on the health front.  Do you go with conventional or unconventional medicine?  Or a bit of both?  Again, we are back to the need to look at wounding, both physical and psychological (and the relation between them).  This may cause some mental strain, a headache, a conundrum.  Remember that often a problem can contain its own solution.  Attentiveness to health and healing is required, but first the question has to be aired.  The solution may just take a little work, or some lateral thinking.

If you thought it was a busy week, it has merely been building up to a wildly busy Saturday (17^th).  First, Venus sextiles Neptune, which may to some extent smooth over the concerns from earlier in the week (such as the need for healing).  It is a most pleasant sextile, a delightful aspect – a beautiful expression of spirituality and the Arts.  New artistic avenues can flourish, ingenious ways for people to share art, music and performance can ensure the Arts are kept alive.

Then, the Sun sextiles Saturn, a good stabilizing aspect, but not as exciting as the previous one (but remember that they can both operate all day, and interact).  This aspect can take creative expression and ground it into reality.  Practical initiatives are supported by this aspect.  It is a good aspect for setting up solid foundations, for instance.  It’s a good aspect for finalizing details smoothly for your new year plans and intentions.

Next up, Venus enters Aquarius, no longer constrained by the social conventions of Capricorn, and more congenial.  This may lighten the social mood, and you may have some extra mental energy at your disposal, such as the telepathic superpowers of Aquarius through its ruler Uranus.  You will feel more connected to people, but not in a clingy way, more in the mode of a higher evolutionary consciousness.

Increasing self-confidence in the use of intuition can occur under the next aspect, which is the Sun trine Uranus.  It’s a veritable new broom of an aspect!  This is a hopeful influence.  It may bring an unexpected go ahead to forge on with innovative plans and original creativity. It is an ideal aspect for reinforcing your New Year’s Resolutions and Affirmations for the coming year, updating them, or thinking up new ones to add to your list.  You may be in a position to spring a happy surprise on someone.  If you have been increasingly technophobic or technogrumpic of late, it may be a chance to make friends with this seemingly necessary aspect of the march of “progress”.

The week in bullet points:

• Today – self care
• Tomorrow – healing wounds
• Wednesday – mental overstretching; balancing and stabilization
• Thursday – loyalty; social excitement
• Friday – healing issues to attend to
• Saturday – smoothing over; more stabilization; a freer socialization; brilliance

Saturn conjunct Neptune

The Watershed

A standout astrological phenomenon coming this year will present itself on February 20th, and I believe it’s important to prepare to it, and work towards it, to make the best of its challenge.  It’s not far away in time, hence my description now at the start of the year. I am calling it The Watershed, a defining moment.  So this is a cross between a motivational piece and a cautionary tale, because what you put in and create affects how such a conjunction works out for you.

Where is it?

The conjunction takes place at a pivotal astrological point: that of 0 degrees Aries, the degree where the Sun is usually placed at the Spring Equinox.  Therefore, symbolically, it denotes a Fresh Start, or a New Order. There is a section towards the end of the blog which indicates its application in each of the Houses, if you know your particular House placement.

What it is

It is the meeting and struggle between the Spiritual (Neptune) and the Material (Saturn).

The Saturn Component

Principle to pare everything down to basics, such as economically

The Neptune Component

Principle of greater sensitization and surrender (to the divine, perhaps)

I am reading Mel Robbins’ book at the moment “Let Them”, which alludes to this in a way.

Combination

A complex conjunction such as this can have two applications:

1. They work separately, and clash, being very different in this case.  Both Saturn and Neptune have a negative side, and can bring each other down!
2. On a higher level, work to blend them, so they work as one force, and apply them to your higher aspirations and goals.

The goal is to simplify your life in this period as much as possible so that at this point you can see the wood for the trees, have greater clarity and perspective, and have the openness to deal with something new that may present itself.

Alan Oken

Worth quoting in full, from my favourite astrological textbook “Complete Astrology” by Alan Oken, he describes its nature with regard to its placement in the birth chart thus:

Keywords: Consolidation and Illumination

Consolidation unites with Illumination. In some cases this aspect contributes to great confusion in the proper understanding of personal limitations.  There is a desire to break through existing circumstances and manifest one’s dreams in the physical world; disillusionment may come through false hopes.  On the other hand, this aspect allows the imagination to successfully merge with the framework of life’s circumstances, so that the forces of inspiration are allowed to crystallize through the person to the Earth.  I have found that the aspect gives an extraordinary ear for music and, in a very few, can bring true clairaudience.”

People who have it natally

Those with this natal placement have been navigating it all their lives.  They are to some extent used to its energy, and may have learned ways to deal with it within their own psychological framework.  The conjunction occurs every 36 years, and people born around 1917, 1953 and 1989 have this in their charts.

Historical precedents

1917 saw: the closing of World War I;

Bolshevik Revolution in Russia

1953 saw: the end of the Korean War;

The death of Stalin

1989 saw: the fall of the Berlin Wall;

The collapse of the Soviet Union

Tiananmen Square demonstration in China

What can we learn from these?:

In summary, ending of wars, collapse of empires, dissolving of boundaries: Saturn represents walls which were once solid, and Neptune the dissolving of these walls.

So what can we learn from all this?…Getting the balance of boundaries right, another thing to aim for in this period (that could include work/life balance, for example).

Strategies

If you have made New Year’s Resolutions (and I am neither for or against them) you will have certain goals or ambitions to aim to use in this period.  It is probably better to have them, than to drift aimlessly and fully allow the Universe to choose…!  (Be a Co-Creator, why don’t you?).   If you feel your project is the next step, it probably is: you have consciously or unconsciously chosen.

Decluttering, of mind and stuff, seem a priority now, in the quest for simplification.

Self-reliance is an important component of the new you, the new era, because 0 degrees Aries represents The Self, she or he who is Reborn.

Choice is also crucial  in this period.  I have a friend who talks about “the Sword of Cleavage”, a biblical term, but also one associated with the return of the Messiah, Maitreya.  It is a point of choice for all of us, for example choosing positivity or negativity, choosing love or fear, seeing reality or illusion.  What may you be in denial of, for  instance?

Health and Fitness

Attending to health and fitness goals are of course important components of a re-set, especially coinciding with the New Year.  I have been watching videos of Sunna Van Kampen eagerly providing the most unprocessed and low sugar products in supermarkets.  (I would love to have his energy!).

I pre-ordered his book, and it just arrived this week, and so I am learning a lot more about the best choices to make in the supermarket aisles.

Going Forward, a Personal Tale

Both hubby and I have (literally) just acquired hi-tech health-related aids.  For me, I have had to be dragged (at the age of 76) kicking and screaming into the 21^st Century, acquiring a Continuous Glucose Monitor for my diabetes.

For hubby, he finally admitted he needed a hearing aid.  When we would watch the rare television programme together (University Challenge) he had needed the volume turned right up.

Both pieces of equipment are super hi-tech.  In the few days I have had it, I have learned so much about what foods spike my blood sugar, that I wonder how I ever did without it.  The truth is, I had avoided it for so long because I am technophobic.  However, it took the two of us three days of tribulation to set it up!

For hubby, as the Boots practitioner told us, going at great lengths to show all the all-singing all-dancing features of these hearing aids, there is so much they do.  For example, if you are in a restaurant, you go to Restaurant-mode, which enables you to focus your hearing and conversation with one person, and screen out the background noise.

I feel that Pluto going into Aquarius has occasioned this new development, handing us new tools going forward into 2026.

How it presents in the Houses

Where it applies…If you know where 0 degs Aries falls in your chart:

1^st House – a total re-ordering of your affairs

2^nd House – a reckoning in your finances, economies and better choices needed

3^rd House – a more sensitive use of words, and the need for clarity in communication

4^th House – charity begins at home, get your own house in order, focus on that rather than trying to manage others.  Again Mel Robbins’ book “Let Them” may be useful for this.

5^th House – channel the energy and issues of this conjunction into creativity

6^th House – focus on healing, and/or cleaning up the workplace, e.g. in health and safety or environmentally

7^th House – put your most positive energies into your nearest and dearest relationships

8^th House – connect more deeply with your spiritual sources, and the meaning of life

9^th House – manifest the clearest qualities of this conjunction which speak to you, and expand from the centre, even globally

10^th House – ascertain the North star of your life purpose and work in the world, and refine it

11^th House – work in the context of friendships and groups to raise consciousness at this time

12^th House – go within, to the subconscious mind, and connect with your own deepest wisdom, e.g. through dreams and meditations

If you don’t know where 0 degs Aries falls  in your chart, ask an Astrologer!

A Nice Reminder

Kim Gould, the Human Design person, has written about this conjunction:

“As we approach the Saturn-Neptune conjunction, which is happening in Gate 25.3 on 20 February 2026, we are learning more about the benefits of feeling safe in the world. We are coming out of a time when cruelty and intimidation have been the go-to tools for a top-down extraction-based society. One of our main ‘weapons’ against the tyranny of this culture is to create safety with each other. To keep each other safe. To share our stories and honour the lived experience of others.”

In conclusion:

At best: It’s a re-set

At worst: creeping issues

Make the most of what you can control.  Remember, it’s all for our learning!

Happy New Start!

Aspects

The aspects this week begin on Tuesday, January 6^th, with the Sun conjunct Venus, at 16 degrees Capricorn. If you are an artist or a musician, it is a day when you can produce your best creative output or performance.  If neither, then love or money may be beneficiaries of this combination.  A good time to set or re-set your value system.

On the same day, we have the Sun conjunct Mars, so a triple conjunction situation, in the same degree.  This brings an upsurge of energy (and possibly conflict), and certainly much intensity.  You can get things done, but also it can bring out the warrior in people, while also bringing out the warrior in peacemakers!  If you are sure that you are entirely justified, in integrity and constructive, then go for what you want.  If you are a peacemaker, then your work may be cut out.  It may not be a day to take big risks, for either type of personality, but it is important to feel what you feel.  If you are prone to headaches, take time to chill out.

The third facet of this triple conjunction is Venus conjunct Mars.  This could spell romance for some.  Tell those you love how you feel about them, and tell yourself how you feel about yourself. Sensuality and hedonism are other possibilities when Venus and Mars get together.

If it’s your birthday, marriage could be on the cards this year!

A Fixed Star for Wednesday (7^th) – Pi Sagittarii (3 stars, one of which is a yellow giant) which provides a cosmic perspective which links to our physicality.  From “Starlight Elixirs” by Michael Smulkis and Fred Rubenfeld:

“…This group of stars will assist individuals who wish to contemplate and understand their own genetic coding, their connection to their own DNA, and the awareness of their own lifelines through the physical body.  They may be able to understand their heritage and genetics, as well as their awareness of how these things could be changed by them more consciously…”

On Thursday (8^th) we have a sextile between Mercury and the North Node, setting up a productive element to the day: the karmic wind will be beneath your wings.  Communication will be highly significant and imbued with meaning, though subject to differing interpretations according to belief.  Some solutions can be found: today.

Venus opposes Jupiter on Friday (9^th).  Venus and Jupiter are known as the lesser and greater benefic planets respectively, so they don’t tend to do too much damage to each other, and they may even have a good time.  There could be some much needed laughter for instance, hopefully at no one’s expense.  Or if at another’s expense, no harm done.  There’s the possibility of letting out some tension in light relief.

Two more oppositions occur on Saturday 10^th, the first being Jupiter opposing the Sun, which is more than a touch of rebellious humour, perhaps extending from Friday.  We may be trying to cover too much ground, and overstretching ourselves, erring on the side of arrogance, although likely to be in good humour.  You may want to be travelling.  If armchair travelling, philosophical reflections on the quality of freedom in your life can bring relevant insights for this Jupiterian aspect and timing.  Or if you can extend to a desk, writing a comedy script would also be a suitable occupation for the day.  Next year’s Pantomime in embryo?

And the last aspect of the week, on the same day, Jupiter opposing Mars.  This is a high energy feature, with the emphasis on enthusiasm and sporting interests.  This, combined with the New Year aspiration may result in a new surge in gym membership and attendance, for instance!  Keep fit regimes will be re-ignited.  Again, watch a possible tendency to over-react.

“I would say to you, take life one step at a time, and let your new beginnings start to unfold and bring more love and peace into your life. Don’t feel discouraged if something doesn’t seem to be happening. Good things are happening for you and your life is changing all the time in positive ways, even if you can’t see those things clearly yet.”

~ Lorna Byrne

The week in bullet points:

• Tuesday – artistic and musical licence; high energy; sensuality
• Wednesday – cosmic and physical awareness
• Thursday – karmic wind beneath your wings
• Friday – a lighter note
• Saturday – overstretching; more high energy; still humorous

Review of the Year 2025

It’s that time again…Time for the Review of the Year.  Selections from the blogs, as usual, for those of you who like to review the year…

January

26^th:

“A Complete Unknown”

Biographical Film of Bob Dylan

Last Monday, hubby and I ventured forth to see the film starring Timothee Chalamet documenting the early years of Bob Dylan’s musical career.  It gladdened the heart of these two 75 year olds, and moved us to tears.  We were teens when Bob was developing his career, so it was the nostalgia which got to us to a great extent, combined with the beauty of the music, and the extraordinary quality of the acting.

Timothee Chalamet, Birth Chart

Chalamet has the Sun, the planet of Acting, in Capricorn at the beginning 5^th House of Acting.  His character portrayal of Bob Dylan is astonishing.  His 10^th House cusp (one of two careerpoints) at 3 degrees Gemini is exactly conjunct Bob’s natal Sun.  He was born to play him.  Timothee has 5 planets in ambitious Capricorn in his 5^th House of Acting. He has Moon in Pisces, the other sign of the acting profession; the sensitivity as distinct from the showmanship of Leo.  He has Mercury exactly conjunct Neptune (the “channeller” conjunction; well it seemed, however strange, that he was actually channelling a living person!).  He also possesses the Uranus/Neptune conjunction of the 1990s, which enables him to process complexity, while his Ascendant in Virgo ensures an attention to detail and perfectionism which contribute to his huge skill.

February

16th:

EastEnders

Celebrating its 40^th Anniversary

The long-running soap opera EastEnders celebrates its 40^th anniversary this week, by setting fire to its local pub, The Queen Vic.  Funny how soaps like to celebrate with disasters…I will try and keep this blog short, as I don’t know many people who still watch EastEnders.

The show first aired at 7 p.m. on 19^th February 1985, later moving to the 7.30 p.m. slot to avoid clashing with Emmerdale Farm.  That first episode was viewed by 17 million people. The marital disharmony between Angie (actor Anita Dobson) and Den Watts (Leslie Grantham) were prominent in the early days, culminating in the Christmas Day 1986 episode where divorce papers were presented.  However, Den’s daughter Sharon (played by Letitia Dean) still appears in the show, as done (apparently the longest serving character/actor) Ian Beale/Adam Woodyat.

EastEnders is set in the fictional borough of Walford, with the fictional postcode of E20.  With Coronation Street, Brookside and Emmerdale Farm already established as northern soaps, London was chosen as the location.

March

30th:

Greenland

“We need Greenland.  And the world needs us to have Greenland, including Denmark.  Denmark has to have us have [sic] Greenland.”

~ Donald Trump

American Vice President J.D. Vance paid an unrequited and uninvited visit to Greenland this week.  Not content with bidding for Canada as a 51^st state, President Trump would like to annexe Greenland, presumably as his 52^nd state.  As with Ukraine, he is interested in its potential mineral wealth.  It seems contradictory that someone trying to keep immigrants out of his own country, feels able to justify taking over populations in other countries.

Greenland, with its capital at Nuuk, is the world’s largest island, and has its own culture (such as music) and identity, which owes nothing to America.  Writing in the Observer this morning, Sarah Ditum explains that it was originally inhabited by Norsemen hunting walruses and trading ivory.  Then the population vanished mysteriously, but its current population arrived about 800 years ago.  She describes the terrain: “hard black volcanic rocks rear up from the shallow turf”.  Most residents of Greenland are Inuit.

The solar eclipse at 9 degrees Aries this weekend apparently was viewable up to 90%, and the northern lights were spectacular, too, nature marking the importance of this time for the country.

April

27th:

Pope Francis (1936 – 2025)

“What is built on the basis of force, and not on the truth about the equal dignity of every human being, begins badly and will end badly.”

~ Pope Francis

Pope Francis died last Monday at 7.35 a.m., Rome, aged 88, from double pneumonia and a stroke.  He had been ailing, and his health had been a significant cause for concern, since February, when Neptune was trine his natal Pluto in his 1^st House (deep seated changes), Saturn square his natal Chiron in the 12^th House (physical deterioration), and the North Node trine his natal Pluto 1^st House (a reorientation of the Soul).  His journey back to his maker was being prepared.

Birth Chart

I took a good look at his chart when he was elected in March 2013.  I wrote:

“Sun in Sagittarius is traditionally the sign for conventional religion, and pontification.  His Sun is close to the galactic centre, so he may be aligned with spiritual realities, and it is conjunct the North Node (karmic mission) which confirms that his path is a true one (for him at least).  He is comfortable with religious power.  There is a down-to-earth quality about him, and if he is of a certain evolutionary level it may be significant in his life and works that Earth is the esoteric ruler of Sagittarius.

May

18th:

Pope Leo XIV

“Evil will not prevail: we are all in God’s hands….The world needs His light…help us build bridges, with dialogue, to always be at peace.”

~ Pope Leo XIV

I’m a bit late posting about Pope Leo XIV, but I felt there needed to be a gap between Popes in this blog!  Welcome to the new custodian of the Roman Catholic community.  His inauguration mass is being held today in St. Peter’s Square, and we have already seen his first outing in the Popemobile.

Birth Chart

We do not have a birth time for Pope Leo, but see that his planets are bunched up in the Leo (see what I did there) – Virgo – Libra segment of the zodiac. He doesn’t have a profusion of aspects to his personal planets, which may be an indication of his wider service.  He has the Sun in Virgo, which of course is the sign of Service.  His Sun is conjunct Venus, bringing Love as a central theme of his life and character.  This Sun in Virgo is exactly square to the Nodal Axis, again emphasizing service and Power surrendering to the greater good.  His Moon may be in Leo or Virgo.  At Noon on that day, the Moon was closely sextile Neptune (great emotional sensitivity) and exactly conjunct Pluto (extreme emotional depth).  He has Mercury sextile Jupiter, a breadth of learning and widespread travel (from Chicago to Peru to Rome).  This aspect is often found in the charts of poly-linguists (he knows English, Spanish, Italian, French, Portuguese, German and Latin.)  Venus is trine Chiron, which is about healing through Love. 

June

15th:

Brian Wilson (1942 – 2025)

“There were times when [mental illness] was unbearable but with doctors and medications I have been able to live a wonderful, healthy and productive life.”

~ Brian Wilson, 2019

A universally acknowledged musical genius, Brian Wilson, died this week aged 83.  Together with his band, The Beach Boys, they formed a glorious soundtrack to the sixties.  From a difficult relationship with his father, and lifelong struggles with mental health and drugs, his life was not easy, and much of his vast creative output remains unpublished or unrecorded.  But those he did bring to the world went straight to our hearts.

Birth Chart

Fortunately, we do have a birth time for Brian, which reveals the basic specifications of Sun in Gemini, Ascendant in Taurus, and Moon in Virgo.  Yet, as you will probably have guessed, the picture is far more complex.

He was almost an astrological twin of Paul McCartney, born two days later in the same year.  They have admired each other, but also rivalled each other.

July

27th:

Ozzy Osbourne (1948 – 2025)

“It’s crazy that anyone would think I’d be in league with the devil, because I’m terrified of all sorts of shit.  I’m very superstitious.  I have to try not to be, otherwise I wouldn’t leave the house.”

~ Ozzy Osbourne

Ozzy Osbourne, the godfather of heavy metal, frontman of Black Sabbath, died last Tuesday, at the age of 76.  Birmingham was in mourning, but grateful to have had the group’s farewell gig on 5^th July.

Birth Chart

We are fortunate to have a birth time for Ozzy, and can clearly see the shape of his chart.  His nickname, “The Prince of Darkness” is starkly shown by his Ascendant in Scorpio, with its ruling planet Pluto (the Prince of Darkness) at the top of the chart.  There is no mistaking his persona.  He has the Sun in Sagittarius, a sign which also has a strong showing in his chart, with Chiron/Mercury/Sun in Sagittarius in his 1^st House.  This contributes the humour which so many who knew him valued, the slapstick clumsiness, and the tendency to excess (both Scorpio and Sagittarius have a tendency to excess).  His Mercury was exactly square to his Saturn, a common sign of dyslexia.

August

3rd:

Sarina Wiegman

“The success of Sarina: she is always herself”

~ Hans Verheij

Last Sunday afternoon, a nation watched as the Lionesses, our Women’s football team, triumphed in the final of the UEFA champions league.  The match was nailbitingly close, involved a penalty shoot out, and represented a second such triumph for the team’s manager, Sarina Wiegman.  This week saw a homecoming parade and celebration in London for the team, with Sarina dancing and singing with her favourite music artist, Burna Boy.  What makes the magic of a successful manager, and team?  We came to know and love the characters playing over the period of the tournament, and I will look at a few.

Birth Chart

We do not have a birth time for Sarina, but she has the Sun in Scorpio: so she’s intense, passionate, and driven.  Scorpio is a persevering sign, and with having Moon in Taurus, she is doubly so (both signs are part of the Fixed Quadruplicity).  She has the Sun opposite Saturn, experience born of hardship, which hints that as a player, she specialized in defence.

September

7th:

Zack Polanski

New Leader of the Green Party

“A fluent media performer”

~ The Guardian

“I believe that his style and emphasis meet the challenge of the moment”

~ George Monbiot

It’s been a turbulent week for politics in the UK this week: Angela Rayner was forced to resign as Deputy Prime Minister, a cabinet reshuffle ensued, Boris-Johnson-lover Nadine Dorries defected from Conservative to Reform…But then you had to notice the election of the radical Zack Polanski as Green Party leader this week, chosen by 85% of the Greens.

Birth Chart

Zack has a specialist’s chart, planets bunched up and concentrated in a segment of the zodiac, which helps to provide the passion for his cause: after all, who doesn’t want the planet to succeed?  His Sun is in Scorpio, one of the Warrior signs, and he exhibits one of its possible archetypes, The Firebrand.

October

5th:

Jane Goodall (1934 – 2025)

“…animals are “far more aware and intelligent than we ever imagined and, despite having been bred as domestic slaves, they are individual beings in their own right. As such, they deserve our respect. And our help. Who will plead for them if we are silent?” 

~ Jane Goodall (referring to farm animals)

The celebrated primatologist and anthropologist Jane Goodall died on Wednesday at the ripe old age of 91.  She seems to have come into this lifetime intent with purpose, and achieved an amazing set of achievements throughout her long life, being on a lecture tour at the very end of her life.

Birth Chart

Such a remarkable lady would be likely to have a remarkable birth chart, and she has.  The pioneering, courage, and adventurousness just stack up in her chart.

Her Sun was in Aries (courage, The Pioneer and Warrior Archetypes), bold and fearless.  In addition, Aries has an unmistakeable primal quality, which obviously she possessed in order to do the empathetic work with the chimpanzees.

The Sun was opposite Jupiter in her chart – adventurousness, and sextile the North Node (she was master of her own destiny).  Her Moon was in Sagittarius, again adventurousness.  The Moon was conjunct her Ascendant in Sagittarius, on the 12^th House side: depicting living out in the wilds.

November

30th:

The Rivals Exhibition, Tate Britain

The new exhibition highlights the rivalry and contrasting personalities of contemporary artists Joseph Mallord William Turner and John Constable, who lived in the 18^th and 19^th Century.

J.M.W. Turner (1775 – 1851)

“He was a genius of the first order—far the greatest painter that England has ever produced…”

~ Kenneth Clark, Art historian

Birth Chart

Turner had the Sun in Taurus, a classic sign for Fine Art.  There is more than a trace of the Warrior Archetype in his chart, with the Sun trine Mars, and the North Node conjunct Mars.  The Sun is also closely trine the North Node, indicating the Creator Archetype.  He had the Moon exactly sextile Mercury – a harmonious alliance between the imagination and the intellect.  Mercury was loosely conjunct Chiron – showing a problem-solving mind.  With Venus conjunct Uranus, he had an unusual relationship with society, and unique artforms, and his personality was described as eccentric. Venus square to the Nodal Axis suggests karma with the art world, which may include that with John Constable.

December

14th:

Sophie Kinsella and Joanna Trollope

Friends, and Sagittarian Storytellers

Sophie Kinsella (1969 – 2025)

“Every one of Sophie’s 40 million readers knew how funny and smart she was.”

~ Jenny Colgan

“Shopaholic” author Sophie Kinsella died this week of glioblastoma, at the tender age of 55.  She will be missed by her many readers, and earned the title “the queen of romantic comedy”, given to her by Jo Jo Moyes.

Birth Chart

Sophie, whose birthday was 12^th December, was born with the Sun in Sagittarius – confirming last week’s Storyteller Archetype for this sign.  She died on 10^th December, two days before her birthday. Friends found her joyful, a quality from her ruling planet Jupiter.  Her Sun was unaspected (showing a free spirit) except for a square to the Nodal Axis (a strong sense of destiny).  We have no birth time, but a noon chart reveals two exact Moon aspects, so even if she was born at the extremes of the day they may still be relevant…

Aspects

On Monday (29^th) the North Node will be sextile with Mars in a dynamic sextile with Mars the North Node.  This is a positive expression of Warrior karma.  You may be able to get your message across directly and actively, in speaking your truth or setting an example.  Lines may be drawn (Mars has a short fuse at times, and is not suited to long-drawn out debate).  I am currently enjoying reading “The Power of Past Lives” by Steve Burgess, so make that a recommended read.

We have a square on Tuesday (30^th) between Saturn and Mercury, which brings up mental weariness.  Is there a term for end of year weariness?  So much so that you may have to put your thought processes on the back burner for a while, trying meditation or gentle exercise instead.  This may give your mind a rest and a refresh or a reset.

2026

Thursday brings us a New Year, and a choice of whether or not to do any Resolutions!  It has been revealed that the youngsters are keener than the oldsters on the practice, though I am not sure that is true.  For myself, I am pretty vague on them, though.

On New Year’s Day, Neptune squares Mercury.  This can sometimes bring difficult weather patterns.  I don’t this is true for the UK for that day, but the US are suffering difficult conditions at the moment.  Some undefinable snag may be nagging at you.  If so, allow your subconscious to bring it up in its own time, but don’t shut up shop until you have identified the rum note.  Then you can deal with it, move on and let it go.  There could be some scandals in the news, too.  Don’t forget to operate from the optimum mindset of Neptune (compassion) rather than its underside of fear and paranoia.

Also that day, Mercury enters Capricorn, which is supportive of establishing sensible new habits and resolutions.  The mental mode of Capricorn is practicality, and systematic and methodical thinking. Mercury in Capricorn favours planning (so helps with planning events for next year. Official documentation may need to be worked on, forms to fill, authorities to interview, etc.  Mercury will be in Capricorn until 20^th January.

Chiron is Stationary prior to going Direct on Friday (2^nd) which is a helpful turning of the path on your healing journey.  If you are hospital visiting or having a health check up on that day, this development may help you see things in a new light, e.g. realizing the purpose behind the condition.  You may start to find new healing avenues.

The last day of the week, Saturday (3^rd) provides us with a congenial conjunction between Venus and the Sun at 12 degrees Capricorn. If you are an artist or a musician, it is the day you can produce your best creative output or performance.  If neither, then love or money may be beneficiaries of this combination.

Also on that day, we have a Full Moon in Cancer – a high tide of emotion.  Tears may flow in private or public, as this is one of the most emotional of the Full Moons in the astrological year.  In your personal life, you may be torn between personal and professional loyalties.  Therefore it may be a suitable time to address your work/life balance.

As we turn into the New Year of 2026 I would like to wish all my readers a heartening and peaceful New Year, and healing for the World.

The week in bullet points:

• Monday – dynamic karma
• Tuesday – mental weariness
• Thursday – mental confusion; then mental practicality
• Friday – healing ways;
• Saturday – love; emotional high tide

Happy Christmas

How do the aspects around Christmas strike your birthchart?  These are Venus from Sagittarius square Neptune in Pisces, then entering Capricorn.  And at Noon on Christmas Day, the Moon at 5 degrees Pisces, which is in itself a symbol for the birth of baby Jesus.

I describe the nuances for each sign, and also re-print the Christmas style for each sign, from last year.  Whether it’s your Sun Sign, Ascendant or you’re spending the day  in solitude, there is a separate reading for everybody:

Aries

Aries is an impulse buyer, but may not plan too far ahead.  So something might strike them in their path as being a perfect purchase, but otherwise they may do everything last minute.  A typical Aries Christmas Archetype would be the male who leaves all his Christmas shopping to do on Christmas Eve.  For an Aries child, a Meccano set or toy soldiers may be welcome, and for an adult male something for the car.

If you have…

Sun in Aries

You may chafe at some of the rules, regulations and rituals, and want to do your own thing!  But you may be touched by some warm heartedness, which softens you.  Either way, you’ll live up to your mantra, Authentic Aries!

Ascendant in Aries

You might prefer a woodland retreat, rather than an indoor celebration, and find too many folks crammed in a small space.  You might welcome the distraction from social media.  But your inner emotions might benefit from some quiet time alone occasionally throughout the day – as long as you don’t take your mobile phone with you!

 If you are an Aries on your own

There is a chance for a real connection with the true meaning of Christmas, whatever that means for you, with the Moon in contemplative Pisces.  If it strikes you, make a note of it, as you could forget.

Taurus

Taurus looks forward to the sensuality of Christmas, roast chestnuts toasting on an open fire for instance.  A cosy jumper would make a welcome gift for a Taurean, or some fancy chocolates. A blue scarf for the throat chakra would support their well-being, and a Christmas plant such as an amaryllis, poinsettia or cyclamen would keep their green-fingered hearts alive in the winter months.

Sun in Taurus

You definitely feel the Good Will to All Men and Women frequency, almost too sensitively!  The Moon in Pisces is congenial, and you enjoy the domestic aspects of the day’s activities.  Presents and Presence mean something.  The sensuality of chestnuts roasting, and the aroma of cinnamon candles, could make heady memories. 

Ascendant in Taurus

Your thoughts may turn to absent friends, even those abroad.  But friendship is definitely an important theme of this day for you, even if it is opening gifts from afar.  Stay in the moment, your time will come…

If you are on your own

You are able to appreciate the gentleness and quietness of this particular Christmas vibe.  Simplicity is the key.

Gemini

Geminis are quite analytical about choosing gifts, and can put a lot of thought into the process.  Some are into gadgetry, and like to give and receive gadgets.  Give Geminis presents in pairs, or opposites, e.g. a black and white version of one type of gift.  They might like one better than the other, but this style of gifting will appeal to their low boredom threshold.  A magazine subscription would also be a suitable gift for a Gemini, or a book of Sudoku puzzles.  Alternatively, some gloves for their precious jazz hands.

Sun in Gemini

 Emotions are bittersweet as you may be saying hello and goodbye to someone close on the same day. You may feel a sense of yearning, without perhaps knowing why.  And forgive yourself a little moodiness…The joke in the cracker might be very apt!

Ascendant in Gemini 

Feelings may run deep right now.  It may not seem the right time, but give some thought to how you want your career or work in the world to pan out in the year to come.  The Gemini mind is always whirring, so pay attention to what you are focussing on, and what you are creating with your mind.

If you are on your own

You might feel that you want a sounding board.  If so, some lengthy text to a bosom buddy may assuage that need, or a deep meditation and connection with your soul and The Source.  A re-evaluation is  on the cards!

Cancer

For the Cancerian, it’s all about home and family.  For the mother hen, to have all her family under one roof on the day is heaven.  Something for the home is a winning gift, and a Christmas spiced perfumed candle is always welcome to provide ambience.  Alternatively, a photo album of treasured family memories from the year.  Cancerians also like antiques, if you can stretch to that, or if you find a bargain on a hunt.  For a Cancerian child, a doll’s house is ideal.

Sun in Cancer

Relationships are the primary focus, for you, at this time.  Be vary of over-sensitivity, as you may misjudge the situation.  You are likely to feel extra emotional!  Don’t apologise for who you are!

Ascendant in Cancer

You may be extra busy at this time – are you the one doing the catering, perhaps?  Plan well ahead, and keep a steady nerve.  You may be linking up with those abroad, at your table, or on facetime.  Go on, admit it, you thrive on it all! 

If you are on your own 

Self-nurturing is the key: spoil yourself with the finest food and drink you have in your imagination to give yourself.  It’s a chance to get to know yourself better, and like what you see.

Leo

Leos would like to be the centre of attention on Christmas Day, though they realize it belongs to everyone!  A personalized item, such as a named mug is self-validating, and may help the Leo to feel special.  Otherwise, a luxury item, such as leopard print slippers, may appeal to their sense of luxury.  If they are off on a winter holiday, choose something which will enhance their trip, something they would be delighted to pack in the suitcase.  Leos like to engage everyone in a board game, so that would make a contribution to family competition.

Sun in Leo

You may feel a little detached from proceedings on the day.  Perhaps someone else volunteered to do all the preparations, and you don’t feel your usual investment.  But you may still be treated like a King, or Queen!  You shine brightly, without trying. 

Ascendant in Leo

You can revel in some of your artistic and creative contributions, such as the inventive table settings!  And there may be an emotional connection, such as with a child.  That could be your own Inner Child… 

If you are on your own 

Watch your favourite movie or indulge in your guilty pleasure without censure!  Then begin writing your own movie script or pantomime.  Are the characters all facets of you, or do you need to recruit some players to bring the script to life?

Virgo

Virgos go for quality rather than quantity, and can often nail the gift giving as a consequence: one simple direct statement trumping the excessive efforts of others, such as a small perfectly chosen perfume bottle.  They like to give ecological presents, too, and would equally love to receive something from an ecological catalogue.  Purity is the watchword, whether in giving or receiving, especially when considering beauty products.  Virgos like to give home made presents, and to receive crafts.  Another Virgo preoccupation is timekeeping, so a beautiful or functional watch would be suitable.

Sun in Virgo

You might actually be preferring some alone-time, but are caught up with others’ emotions and preoccupations, which take you out of yourself.  You could experience another version of yourself, but still enjoy reverting to type.

Ascendant in Virgo

It may be a more social occasion than planned, for example you may receive an unexpected caller.  Be adaptable.  Enjoy the efficient use of your gadgets, such as the air fryer or the ice cream maker!  Share yourself around!

If you are on your own 

Whether or not you wish to be alone (like Virgoan Greta Garbo), it may be time to make friends with a deeper level of your self.  A Christmas meditation may connect you with global energies, then you may be able to see the wood for the trees as well as the trees in the wood.

Libra

Librans would be inspired in the Christmas decoration of the home.  Elegance, artistry and beauty are the watchwords for Libran presents.  Jewellery would make an ideal present, but beauty products would also be welcome. Music is another important element in the life of the Libran, so a set of earphones or headphones will support that experience. Librans will smile graciously at the present-giving stage of Christmas, saving you any embarrassment!

Sun in Libra

The emphasis is on the home (preparing and decorating; setting up a cosy atmosphere) and family (maybe hosting your nearest and dearest). Thus you can centre yourself and create Christmas how you want it to be.  Creating beauty is your forte.

Ascendant in Libra

You may be inclined to people-pleasing at this time (maybe more than usual).  You may justify it on the grounds that you are participating in a group.  But don’t lose sight of your own pleasure principles.  Also don’t eat too much rich food, as your stomach may be feeling it.  Go for quality rather than quantity!

If you are on your own

Take care of your relationship with yourself: bring your subpersonalities into harmonious connection, for example your animus and anima.  Curl up with a good book, or some inspiring music.  Create a mellow mood…

Scorpio

Scorpios are more discerning givers and recipients when it comes to presents.  What they give and receive has to be meaningful, e.g. a self-help book or a book on popular psychology would not go amiss. A game of Cluedo might bring the family together.  For children, a Secret Spy or Detective set will feed their talent for solving mysteries.  They won’t hide their true feelings about your offering, and their opinions may be black or white.

Sun in Scorpio

Stay true to your deepest emotions and psychological perceptions, even if you don’t share them.  Remember others may be over-sensitive at this time, and the crowd may need a balanced and light-hearted vibe.

Ascendant in Scorpio

Be constructive and creative in the use of your energies at this time.  That may involve playing on the floor with a child, or inventing a new group game.  If playing charades, dig deep so as not to bore yourself (or others) and remember old films and books you haven’t brought up in years!

If you are on your own

 Be the best version of yourself, and practise self-love.  Remember you have so much going for you.

Sagittarius

Sagittarians like to promote the Good Will to all men and women angle of Christmas.  Book tokens are always a hit with Sagittarians, or sports wear or equipment for the sportier Sagittarians.  Young Sagittarians may like something horse-related such as My Little Pony, or Barbie’s horse.  When choosing gifts, Sagittarians go for quantity over quality, e.g. they would rather buy a hundred people Poundshop presents rather than one person a £100 present!  They enjoy religious symbolism, such as a crystal Angel or Buddha.  For boozy Sagittarians, a bottle of fine wine.

Sun in Sagittarius

You may be filled with goodwill and hearty feelings at this stage, but need to hold on to the values you have built up this last month.  It is a good time to express and release emotions, especially old ones which no longer serve you.  Like a firework, you give off sparks, whether you’re a catherine wheel or a roman candle!  Bring the party!

Ascendant in Sagittarius 

You may be feeling restless at the moment, longing for pastures new.  Maybe you have booked or are looking ahead to a planned holiday.  So it is a good time to learn to live in the moment (or read Volume II of my trilogy “The Quiet Office – the Search for the Now”).

If you are on your own

Necessity is the mother of invention…What to do with your expansive energy?  Dig out that adventurous meditation tape, the one that takes you on a journey…

Capricorn

Christmas is a serious business for a Capricorn – so serious for some that there are a lot of Bah Humbug Archetypes born under this sign.  If they are enthusiastic about Christmas, they will plan well ahead.  Go for practical presents, or something which supports them in their chosen career.  A Diary wouldn’t go amiss.  For many Capricornians, the care and feeding of their skin is of importance, so a high end skincare product could be well received.  Whatever you do, Capricorns don’t like waste so if the present is not well chosen, it will be an irksome millstone for them.

Sun in Capricorn

You may set out with a rigid plan of how you think your Christmas should pan out, but someone may twist your arm to get more emotionally involved and adapt to a more social plan.  Don’t be afraid to turn up the heating, as it may be a cold day.  Breath freely, and relax completely.

Ascendant in Capricorn 

It’s important to express your feelings and emotions, with the Moon being in your 3^rd House this Christmas, even if it takes you out of your comfort zone.  There may still be some psychological reflection needed, in order to enhance your experience, and that of others around you.  That Moon in Pisces has the power to melt your heart, in some way. 

If you are on your own

You may have mixed feelings about spending the day on your own.  Explore your indulgent side, if you have one, and let your hair down, if it’s in a scrunchie.

Aquarius

Aquarians would like a surprise, please!  Nothing humdrum, but anything quirky.  If it is futuristic, even better.  Artistically, it needs to have clean lines.  The latest technology is always a winner with Aquarians, and for a book choice go for futuristic science fiction.  Crystals are an option for New Age minded Aquarians.  Aquarians are already thinking about the year ahead, so for them Christmas is just a hop stop to the future, unless you can engage them with a novelty.

Sun in Aquarius

Your agenda, as always, is to put the world to rights.  Try and fashion a group game of it, such as inviting people to put forward their best solutions, and award a prize for the most inventive.  Provoke stimulating discussions over dinner!  That may annoy some, but satisfy your deeper needs!  I predict a riot!

Ascendant in Aquarius

The focus for you this Christmas is the deeper meaning of materiality, possessions, stuff, and how they relate to spirituality.  You have the ability to raise the game, especially if you are in a group (secret weapon: you’re always the leader).

If you are on your own

If you are on your own by design or by default, try and engage in some way with your soul group, either through meditation, or a WhatsApp member.  This may put you on track more easily with your life purpose.  The cosmic joke is that you are a spirit having a material experience.

Pisces

Sentimental Pisceans enjoy the Christmas movies, and will remind everyone of those family members and friends loved and lost at this time.  Anything with a water-theme would be suitable for their delectation, such as swimwear.  For textures, anything soft and squishy!  Lavender or natural sleep enhancing products will enhance their night experience. And for a child, a magic set. They may appreciate a charity donation, such as sponsoring a donkey.  They themselves may be a bit woolly or hit and miss in their present-giving, such as accidentally leaving Auntie Margaret off their radar.  But their own offerings may melt your own heart.

Sun in Pisces

Normally self-effacing, this Christmas it’s All About You, it’s all about you, baby…That is assured by the presence of the Moon in your sign.  Don’t be afraid to be self-indulgent and to fully acknowledge your emotions.  You come into your own, with this Moon position.

Ascendant in Pisces

In self-reflection, you may have flashes of insight into your role in the world during the next year, and what you could be doing for your greatest fulfilment.  This may be especially welcome, if you have been undergoing a confusing period of late.  There is never a finite conclusion, truth is always being refined, enjoy the truth of the moment. 

If you are on your own

Try to take a wide view of things, examining the Microcosm and the Macrocosm of your own world and compassion for others.  Then bring them together in unity, harmony, peace and prayer.  If anyone can do it, you can, and that will ripple outwards.

All that remains is for me to wish you all a very Happy Christmas.  If your experience matches the descriptions, or if it spectacularly doesn’t, why not leave a comment!

Aspects

Neptune squared the Sun in the early hours, and you may have had unusual or spiritual experiences in the night as a consequence.  This aspect may bring some impractical elements which create a wobble.  You may hit a snag in the implementation of your plans, or see through the illusion of a project.  A pet may have been behaving in a confused manner or strangely, the night before.  But once you are through that looking glass, you may see how you can remedy things.  It may require some refining of details or technique, for instance.

Chiron also squares Jupiter today: that means an unusual conundrum may present itself, such as the challenging of your boundaries.  Remind yourself that, with Chiron involved, the ultimate purpose is healing.

This afternoon, the Sun enters Capricorn, which is the Winter Solstice.  For many this will be a relief, and a sense of a new dawn, especially for those who suffer from seasonal affective disorder (S.A.D.).  The Sun’s entry into Capricorn is a return to practicality, after the aspirational month of Sagittarius.  It is a time to look at the general structure and order of things, and your relationship with authority and the institutions which govern our society.  Reflection and introspection may form a part of your experience, while welcoming the return of the light.

Wednesday (24^th), Christmas Eve, is the most important day for aspects this week, appearing to chase off all aspects for the rest of the week!  I have based my blog today on its aspects.

First, Neptune squares Venus.  We could do without last minute relationship wrangles before the big day, such as paranoia about who may have upset who, and will so-and-so get on with the other one…Will they even turn up?  But maybe dealing with these elements just before the big day, such as sounding people out, may be helpful.

Use it to get your house in order, and secure loopholes before Christmas Day.  You may experience sensitivity around a relationship issue.  Sift out any paranoia, iron out artistic flaws, and financial insecurities. That may assist a smoother passage…and tread softly on the day, lest you tread on your own dreams, or anyone else’s.  Be alert to any scams or deceptions, or negative examples of A.I., of which there seem to be many these days.

The last astrological feature of the week, also on Christmas Eve, is the entry of Venus into Capricorn.  This may see people being more serious and measured in their interactions.  Their expectations of others will be more realistic.  Venus now needs to bring her skill in human relations into the workplace, into administration and public institutions, and into politics.  The upside of Venus in Capricorn is more commitment and loyalty.  The reassurances of loyalty may allay some of the pre-Christmas jitters caused by Venus square Neptune.  The carefree Venus in Sagittarius gives way to a more sedate portrayal of love and affection, and the Arts.  Thoughts may turn to the care of the elderly within the family circle, and may possibly focus on the issue of social care, one of the hotly debated topics of the day, which the government urgently needs to solve, in order to alleviate its impact on other hotly debated features which have been stuck. Maybe a Christmas Day speech may deal with some of the real preoccupations people are having.

Peace to All Beings.

The week in bullet points:

• Today – confusion; conundrums; return of the light
• Wednesday – sensitivity in relationships; some reassurance in loyalty

Sophie Kinsella and Joanna Trollope

Friends, and Sagittarian Storytellers

Sophie Kinsella (1969 – 2025)

“Every one of Sophie’s 40 million readers knew how funny and smart she was.”

~ Jenny Colgan

“Shopaholic” author Sophie Kinsella died this week of glioblastoma, at the tender age of 55.  She will be missed by her many readers, and earned the title “the queen of romantic comedy”, given to her by Jo Jo Moyes.

Birth Chart

Sophie, whose birthday was 12^th December, was born with the Sun in Sagittarius – confirming last week’s Storyteller Archetype for this sign.  She died on 10^th December, two days before her birthday. Friends found her joyful, a quality from her ruling planet Jupiter.  Her Sun was unaspected (showing a free spirit) except for a square to the Nodal Axis (a strong sense of destiny).  We have no birth time, but a noon chart reveals two exact Moon aspects, so even if she was born at the extremes of the day they may still be relevant:

Moon at Noon exactly square Saturn, some understanding of depressive moods

with

Moon at Noon exactly sextile Chiron, some understanding of how to heal

Mercury square Uranus and Chiron in a Cardinal T-square – and as Mercury rules shopping, this may have been the driving force behind the Shopaholic alter ego (or is it an Archetype??!).  Mercury square Chiron can imply problem solving ability.

Sophie’s Venus in Sagittarius was closely sextile with her Uranus, indicating an ability to express the sensuality of life and shopping.  Mars closely trine Jupiter described the feelgood and humorous vibe of her writing.  Jupiter opposite Saturn can make decision-making difficult; but Neptune trine Chiron shows the healing nature of her work

Life and Career

Sophie was born in Roehampton, her real name being Madeleine Sophie Townley.  She was educated at various schools, then at New College Oxford, where she took Music, then switched to Philosophy, Politics and Economics (Philosophy being a province of Sagittarius).  She began her working life as a financial journalist, but found the job dull.  She was inspired by the work of Joanna Trollope to try her hand at writing novels, at the age of 24.  After several were published under the name Madeleine Wickham, she hit upon the idea of writing about a financial journalist with an addiction to shopping:

“I thought, wait a minute, shopping has become the national pastime, and nobody has written about it.  It felt very much like an experimental project.”

Her work has been labelled “chick lit”, but she preferred the term “wit lit”.  Her first two novels were made into a film “Confessions of a Shopaholic” in 2009.  At the time, her transits included:

Pluto trine her Saturn (serious progress)

Jupiter sextile her Venus (success)

Jupiter trine her Uranus (sudden success)

North Node trine her Uranus (surprise karmic reward)

Her heroine, or alter ego, was called Becky Bloomwood, and the story takes in the inability to manage her own finances despite her expertise in the subject, an obsession with shopping, and a relationship with Luke.

Sophie’s books sold over 50 million copies, in more than 60 countries, translated into over 40 languages.

She met her husband Henry on her first day at Oxford University, and they had five children.  He has helped manage her affairs, and looked after her with great care throughout her illness.  She described him as an optimist, and said that during her illness:

“Every morning, he brings me a cup of tea. And he comes to me with a story of hope. I’ve already lasted more than the average. So, you know, that’s how we get through. … We just hope.”

I confess that I have not read any of her books (in my defence, I am not a shopaholic!).  But she also wrote a book series for children, called “Mummy Fairy and Me”, which has a special place in my own granddaughter’s heart.

Joanna Trollope (1943 – 2025)

“It is a grave mistake to think there is more significance in great things than in little things”

~ Joanna Trollope

A friend of Sophie’s, Joanna’s birthday was 9^th December, and she died this week on 11^th December, two days after her birthday, and one day after Sophie passed.  Joanna reached the ripe old age of 82.

Birth Chart

Joanna was also born with the Sun in Sagittarius, (the Storyteller Archetype again), and her work did contain humour, but also a much more dark side of the human experience (from Pluto exactly conjunct her North Node).  She described her novels as “quite subversive, quite bleak”. With Mercury exactly sextile Venus – she had a marked Writer Archetype!  Furthermore, Mercury trine Jupiter gave her a wide ranging mind.  She had a very energetic chart, with emphatic Mars and Pluto aspects.  Uranus was sextile her North Node, making her a trailblazer in her field: books set in rural England and focussing on domestic life and relationships.  Her work too was labelled, in her case “Aga Sagas”, a label she disputed as agas were barely mentioned.  She was quoted as saying in 2006:

“Except for thrillers there was nothing in the middle ground of the traditional novel, which is where I think I am.”

Life and Career

She was born in Minchinhampton, Gloucestershire, and was a distant relative of  the author Anthony Trollope.  She attended Reigate School for girls, and then, like Sophie, received a further education at Oxford University (at St. Hugh’s College), reading English.  She worked initially as a civil servant, before beginning a writing career in 1980.  She also originally wrote under a pseudonym.  Her big breakthrough came with the novel “The Rector’s Wife” in 1991, which was an enormous and immediate hit, toppling Jeffrey Archer and Jilly Cooper off the top of the charts.  Her Progressed Sun was trine her natal Uranus at the time (a sign of sudden success).  Transiting Jupiter at the time was encouragingly sextile her natal Mars, and added fire came from a transit of Mars squaring her natal Jupiter.

In 1994, The Rector’s Wife was adapted for television, starring Lindsay Duncan and Ronald Pickup.  I was always struck by the resemblance between Joanna Trollope and Lindsay Duncan, although the work is not deemed autobiographical.

Joanna married twice, had two daughters, two step-children, and was a grandmother.

She died peacefully at home, with Pluto square her natal Venus, Chiron sextile her natal Saturn, and Mars trine her natal Jupiter.

“She has a gift for putting her finger on the problem of the times”

~ Fay Weldon

Aspects

The first aspect today is Neptune squaring Mars.  This could be quite tricky, or over-emotional.  Mars likes to act unimpeded, but Neptune forces it to be more sensitive, and possibly also more spiritualized.  Energies may be frittered, and water currents could be flowing in unhelpful directions, e.g. leaks.  Generally under such an aspect, meditation can be helpful, and particularly those activities which combine physical movement with a stilling of the mind, such as Tai Chi.  So perhaps a spot of those activities during the day could contribute to more harmony.

Later in the day, the Sun trines Chiron, introducing a healing note.  For example,  you may have a desire to heal a particular issue.  Look for clues and insights today on this theme, which may help  you.  Healing is illuminated by clarity, and solutions may appear to conundrums which have been recently aired.  There is a sense of wholeness about this aspect.  Creativity and healing have a symbiotic relationship under this aspect.

Tomorrow (Monday 15^th), Mars enters Capricorn.  This may have the effect of slowing down action, but action taken will be firmed up, based on realism, more authoritative.  You may need to make a more respectful approach to something or a project, give it more decorum.

We have a square between Saturn and the Sun on Wednesday (17^th).  This aspect needs some caution in the playing.  It may bring disappointing or deflating news,  delay or frustration.  There is no shortage of such material on our news programmes, certainly.  The Sun-Saturn square is an opportunity to think through what you are doing, and your strategies.  If you are making economies, are they the right ones, based on your optimum values, for example?

A mellower aspect follows the next day, on Thursday (18^th).  Venus will trine Chiron, which may aid healing and recovery.  Try to keep the heart open; it is the antidote for many things.  The healing power of love comes to the fore.  There may be a real opportunity to re-group your healing energies and feel harmony within your being.

Celia Fenn has a reminder for us for Friday (19^th):

“The 19th of December will probably be a whammy. On this day the Earth transits the Galactic Centre at 27 degrees of Sagittarius AND experiences its closest transit to Interstellar object 3I Atlas just 2 days before Solstice. Very deep Galactic energies expected at that time.”

Then it’s on to a new beginning on Saturday (20^th) with a New Moon at 28 degrees Sagittarius.  Sagittarian New Moons are more upbeat than most, focussing on expansion, the planning of holidays, deep study and learning, global issues, and matters of faith.  Re-play your affirmations, with more confidence.  You can have powerful inner conversations under this New Moon.

The last aspect of the week, on the same day, is the Nodal Axis square to Mercury.  Karmic information may come into your awareness, and communication in groups will be important.  Past life exploration may beckon, for some!  A good day for group reunions.  As it is Mercury confronting karma, it may be a good day to tackle your Inner Shopaholic, the Christmas Inner Shopaholic being comparatively on steroids!

The week in bullet points:

• Today – sensitive energies; healing tones
• Tomorrow – responsible action
• Wednesday – frustration
• Thursday – healing and heart opening
• Friday – spiritual awareness
• Saturday – new beginning; karmic information

Sagittarius Archetypes

I am writing about the Sagittarian Archetypes today, before the month of Sagittarius is out (a friend reminded me this week!),  This is the tenth of my series specifically on astrological Archetypes.  It is time to embrace the potential of this sign, turning the spotlight on its Archetypes.

A few words about Sagittarius:  If  you have a Sagittarian Ascendant, you are likely to be more physically Sagittarian, e.g. sporty.  If you have Sagittarian Sunsign, you may not have that type of physicality, and may be more of a traveller in the realms of seeking after truth.  Often Sun Sagittarians have both, of course.

So, following, are some thoughts I highlighted back in my 2015 blog, and then some examples of Sagittarius and its Archetypes, including from history:

“Storyteller

According to Caroline Myss, the Storyteller “relays wisdom and foolishness, mistakes and successes, fact and fiction on a plane that’s often heightened beyond ordinary awareness, including a metaphorical level of teaching.”

I am sure that Scheherazade, spinner of “The 1001 Tales of the Arabian Nights”, was a Sagittarian!  Sagittarians like to embroider and exaggerate the truth.

Famous Examples: Jane Austen, Edna o’ Brien, Joanna Trollope

Philosopher

Famous Example: Alain de Botton

Let’s face it, to carve out a profession as a Philosopher is a rare thing, but Alain de Botton has managed to do it in this modern day.  He has followed his Soul’s path and made it his career.  His birthday is 20th December (Sun at 28 degrees Sagittarius).

Clown

Sagittarius is known for its humour, and the Clown is an old Archetype, and professes comedy but sometimes sheds a tear.  People often wonder why Sagittarians are not always jolly – often they will have some planets of their neighbouring sign Capricorn in their chart, so are no strangers to depression.  There are people who have a phobia of Clowns – this can be a past-life association or childhood trauma, and can be seen in the chart in a difficult aspect to jolly Jupiter.

Famous Examples: Miranda Hart, Christopher Biggins, Billy Connolly and Martin Clunes

New Archetype – The Spiritual Seeker

In her book “Archetypes” Caroline Myss identifies the Spiritual Seeker as one of her new Archetypes for the 21st Century.

Characteristics of the Spiritual Seeker are very Sagittarian and include:

• “trusts intuition unconditionally
• searches for the true meaning and purpose of her life”

She points out that the Spiritual Seeker is a Seeker and not a Finder.  This resonates with the esoteric seed thought for Sagittarius in the Alice Bailey teachings:

“I see the goal.  I reach that goal and then I see another.”  The Sagittarian archer needs an endless supply of arrows.

Caroline is herself a Sagittarian, with a good few planets in that sign.  In “Archetypes” she stresses that the real goal is Truth, and becoming comfortable with the Truth.

There are other aspects of the Spiritual Seeker which are more of a Piscean nature, however.”

Other Archetypes

The Animal Lover

Sagittarians are most likely to be animal lovers, and this can lead them to be veterinary surgeons or work with animals in some way.  The animals they are most associated with are horses (centaurs!) and large dogs.

Famous Equestrian Jockeys: Frankie Dettori, Greville Starkey

This archetype can be seen in other ways in a birth chart.  For example, with Jupiter being the ruling planet of Sagittarius, I know of someone who has Jupiter on her I.C. (at the nadir of the chart).  This point represents roots and security.  Thus in her psychology (the comfort that horses can bring) and in her lifestyle, horses are the foundation of her life and lifestyle.

The Pollyanna

The Pollyanna plays “the glad game” and always looks for the silver lining.  An Optimist par excellence, but often a Sagittarian will have planets in the next sign, Capricorn, so their cup may be only half full!  So that may answer a query in your mind.

The Adventurer

Possibly because they are focussed on positivity, or have such an expansive energy, The Adventurer is one of the Archetypes associated with this sign.

The Traveller

Sagittarians can be addicted to travel, or may emigrate significantly in their lives.  This travelling is internal in the context of mental travel such as philosophy, or armchair travelling, but can lead to work as a travel or tour guide, or a career in imports and exports for example.

Historical/more in-depth Examples

The Veterinary Surgeon

Noel Fitzpatrick (b 13/12/1957)

The well-known TV Vet Noel Fitzpatrick has the Sun in Sagittarius, combined with a caring Cancerian Ascendant (we have a birth time for him).  He has the Sun conjunct Mercury in that sign.  His Chiron (Inner Healer) is conjunct his Midheaven (career) and is exactly trine his Neptune, indicating the gift of healing and great compassion.  He strikes me as having kind eyes.  In an interview in the Observer in March this year, he said:

“This week I’ve done brain surgery spinal surgery, elbow surgery, knee surgery and a fracture that took 14 hours to fix.  By the end, everything ached.  I empathise with my patients, for sure.  You feel connected to the universe, helping to prolong the lives of animals.”

The Adventurer

Olivia de Bergerac (b. 2/12/1950)

Olivia is the author of a book titled “The Dolphin Within – Awakening Human Potential” published in 1998.  As the title suggests, she has done extensive work with dolphins in the wild.  Early in the book, she identifies herself:

“I was on the bow deck, watching for dolphins, when I reconnected with a very important part in me: the adventurer.  This part will not die, despite my job as a management consultant. As soon as I am on a boat a little voice says, ‘you belong to this world’.”

Her pathway with sea creatures is well accentuated in her chart, with Jupiter (her ruling planet) sextile Neptune (spelling success with creatures of the sea), and two more key aspects to Neptune: Neptune sextile Pluto, and Neptune exactly sextile the North Node (depicting the involvement of her karmic mission).

In her glossary at the end of her book, she offers her own take on a definition of Archetype:

“The perfect prototype.  Once created, all things and beings evolve towards the perfection of their archetype.  We call the archetype of each individual their ‘full potential’, or their ‘Dolphin Within’. “

Olivia sees humans in terms of four Archetypes.  In her system, she divides people into four types: Seahorses, Dolphins, Turtles and Sharks.

Two Comedians

Martin Clunes (b. 28/11/1961)

Comedy actor Martin Clunes has the Sun conjunct Mars in Sagittarius, and has an association with horses and dogs (Mars rules dogs in general; Sagittarius more specifically large dogs).  His family run a farm with heavy horses.  He is also president of the British Horse Society. He also has the Sun sextile Jupiter, enhancing his various Sagittarian functions (such as the love of animals).  As a character, his creation of the long running Doc Martin, is a firm favourite, at least in my household.  His earlier alter ego was in a duo with Neil Morrisey in Men Behaving Badly – well he can use the excuse that he has Mars exactly square Pluto in his birth chart!  He is also well travelled.  When asked in the Observer:

“If you could go back in time, where would you go?”

He replied: “To the height of the horse-drawn era”…

Miranda Hart – (b. 14/12/1972)

Comedian Miranda has Mercury, Neptune and the Sun in Sagittarius.  Physically, she has the clumsiness associated with Sagittarius, which gives rise to a slapstick humour.  She also has the physique of a classic Sagittarian, normally seen with Sag rising.  As a Sagittarian, I identify as a Clutz!  I have recently been enjoying old re-runs of Not Going Out, in which Miranda plays a cleaning lady who doesn’t really do any cleaning!  The phase of life associated with Jupiter and Sagittarius is mid life, and she recently announced that she secretly married, in her early 50s.  The relationship may have developed through her Chiron Return (the development of the Inner Healer), and she married when Chiron was trine her natal Sun and the North Node (karma) was trine her natal Neptune (spiritual harmony).  This seemed to trigger a new blossoming in her public profile, together with a new book “I Haven’t Been Entirely Honest With You” on the wisdom she garnered in her years of struggle when she was more withdrawn.

Two Storytellers

Edna O’ Brien (15/12/30 – 27/7/24)

The Irish novelist Edna O’Brien had Neptune on the Ascendant, giving her a rich imagination.  She had just the Sun in Sag in her 4^th House, so was very much travelling in her mind from the home.  With Mercury opposite Jupiter, she was travelling different ways.

I wrote about her when she died last year: “We have the luxury of a birth time for Edna, and can therefore give the signature of her chart as Sun in Sagittarius, Moon in Scorpio and Ascendant in Virgo.  With 0 planets in Air signs, she very much operated on instinct.  Her birth chart tells us she was a leader and trailblazer of sorts (i.e. in her field) with 5 Cardinal planets and the Sun trine the North Node.“ She wrote about powerful and uncomfortable themes, with her ruling planet Jupiter conjunct Pluto.

Taylor Swift (b. 13/12/1989)

“No one is more influential when it comes to writing music today”.

~ National music Publishers’ Association, 2021

The stratospherically successful music artist Taylor Swift emphasizes the unlimited potential carried by the ever-expanding planetary principle of Jupiter!  She considers herself a storyteller, and is drawn to the storytelling aspect of country music.  She has stated that she owed her self-confidence and her “fascination with writing and storytelling” to her mother who encouraged her in preparing for school presentations in childhood.

I wrote in 2024:

“She has the Sun in Sagittarius, but unaspected, making her very individualistic. An exception is a karmic sextile to her Sun from the North Node, so she may be driven by destiny.  She has a fascination for storytelling, and one of the Archetypes for Sagittarius is The Storyteller.  Venus is also unaspected, making her a free spirit in terms of relationship… Mercury is opposite Jupiter [like Edna O’Brien: perhaps a feature of the Storyteller], giving her an interesting breadth of mind”

Philosopher Archetype

Jonathan Cainer (18/12/57 – 2/5/2016)

‘We’re not here for long. So make the most of every moment’

~ his Sagittarian forecast on the day he died

I wrote about the Astrologer’s chart and philosophy in 2016, when he died:

“Jonathan practised Transcendental Meditation, and his style of forecasting was primarily through Philosophy.  He would write a philosophical piece for each sign based on the psychology of the sign, and people often identified with it.  Jupiter and Sagittarius are associated with Philosophy.

Mercury was sextile the North Node in his chart, so he had an understanding of the workings of karma.  Mercury was Retrograde in Capricorn in his 1st House, and he is quoted as saying of Mercury in Capricorn that it “blesses you with the ability to sound like you know what you’re talking about even when you’re spouting rubbish”.  Pluto in 9th House also lent depth to his readings.

He was an optimist, and that buoyed up his readership.  Any eclipse or special transit was always treated as the best thing since sliced bread, and he always put a positive spin on it.”

His Sagittarian credentials were immaculate:

“Jonathan had an incredibly Jupiterian birth chart.  His Sun at 26 degrees Sagittarius was exactly conjunct the powerhouse of the Galactic Centre.  It was exactly sextile the ruling planet of Sagittarius, Jupiter at 26 degrees Libra, and Mars lay at their midpoint, at 26 degrees Scorpio.  This represented a huge resource of energy, with Mars enabling him to make the most use of his Sun-Jupiter sextile.  His Ascendant was also in Sagittarius (thus he was a double Sagittarian), and 1 degree away from the Sun.  A Jupiterian powerhouse of a chart.  Two of the principles associated with Jupiter and Sagittarius are expansion, and luck. As well as being the ruler of his Sun sign and Ascendant, Jupiter was also conjunct his Midheaven (Careerpoint) bringing him lucky opportunities.”

You may notice that with your Sagittarian family, friends and acquaintances, some of them have more than one of these Archetypes.  While the Sun is in Sagittarius (until 21^st December), you can connect with your own Sagittarian Archetypes, or Jupiterian qualities if you do not have any Sagittarian planets, and explore their potential.  Sagittarians like to look at the bigger picture, so if you are feeling stuck in an introspective bubble, seek out a Sagittarian!

Aspects

This afternoon, Mercury trines Saturn.  This combines mental work with practicality, and brings focus and realism to the mental activities.  So it is a good day for making plans.  Serious conversations can also safely take place under this aspect

On Tuesday (9^th) Saturn squares Mars (in the first hour of the day, so you could experience this on Monday evening).  This can bring awkwardness – for example, physically you may want to push an issue, but that approach may not work.  Think before you act, to avoid clumsiness (especially if you are a Sagittarian!).  It may be difficult to obtain co-operation (e.g. on worldwide climate agreements).  You may experience fatigue, including compassion fatigue, discouragement, and a feeling of not having accomplished all you set out to do.  Honour your own pace.

Neptune is Stationary prior to going Direct on Wednesday (10^th).  If you have felt confused of late, there is a chance for more clarity, certainty, inspiration and spirituality.  If  you felt your feet were treading water, then your  path could be on surer ground.  It is an opportunity to fine-tune relationships, art, or spiritual practices.  After the turnaround has been achieved you may detect greater flow and movement.  Interactions may be subtle, but subtlety can be powerful.

In the evening (while Neptune is still turning…) Uranus opposes Mercury.  This could be tricky for communications, such as I.T.  Social media could be a bit fraught!  A spanner could enter into the works.  But if you are tuned into a higher mental wavelength, e.g. that of telepathy, you may achieve progress and flow.   Outages can occur, but so can remedial action when expert help is sought.

On to Thursday (11^th), when the Nodal Axis squares Venus.  This  square challenges us to take note of the karma of personal relationships, and group dynamics.  You may work with past life patterns, or present life practicalities.

An easier influence on the same day is Mercury trine Neptune.  This aspect brings the possibility of mysteries being solved, e.g. around health conditions.  In personal applications, things may fall into place spiritually, and you may be ready to talk about a sensitive subject.  This trine brings mental inspiration, transcendent wisdom, higher harmony, spiritual journeys, and insight.  A small kindness can bring about significant mental healing.

We end the week with a sextile between Mercury and Pluto on Saturday (13^th).  You could make real progress under this aspect.  This aspect can produce profound thought and communication,  honouring the gravity of a situation if necessary, and enabling meaningful debate to occur.  If you have something important lined up, you may be successful in getting your point across.

The week in bullet points:

• Today – knuckling down to work
• Tuesday – clumsiness
• Wednesday – some clarity; some mis-communication
• Thursday – personal karma; spiritual insight
• Saturday – profound communication

The Rivals Exhibition, Tate Britain

The new exhibition highlights the rivalry and contrasting personalities of contemporary artists Joseph Mallord William Turner and John Constable, who lived in the 18^th and 19^th Century.

J.M.W. Turner (1775 – 1851)

“He was a genius of the first order—far the greatest painter that England has ever produced…”

~ Kenneth Clark, Art historian

Birth Chart

Turner had the Sun in Taurus, a classic sign for Fine Art.  There is more than a trace of the Warrior Archetype in his chart, with the Sun trine Mars, and the North Node conjunct Mars.  The Sun is also closely trine the North Node, indicating the Creator Archetype.  He had the Moon exactly sextile Mercury – a harmonious alliance between the imagination and the intellect.  Mercury was loosely conjunct Chiron – showing a problem-solving mind.  With Venus conjunct Uranus, he had an unusual relationship with society, and unique artforms, and his personality was described as eccentric. Venus square to the Nodal Axis suggests karma with the art world, which may include that with John Constable.  With Venus loosely conjunct the I.C. in Taurus in 5^th House, Art was the Foundation of his life and creativity.  Mars square Jupiter gave him over-the-top energy and productivity.  Mars square Uranus conferred an electrical quality to his energy. The square of Mars to the Midheaven may indicate “rivalry” with another male painter.  Jupiter loosely conjunct Uranus equates with the Entrepreneur Archetype, and Jupiter trine Neptune, mystical atmospheres in his work.  Saturn trine Pluto (The Strategist Archetype), part of a Grand Trine, helped in organizing his compositions.  With Uranus at 0 degrees Gemini, he was bringing into being a new genre.  Uranus was exactly square the Nodal Axis, suggesting some alienation from society, and being destined to bring in something new.  He was an inspiration for the Impressionist movement.

Life and Career

Turner was born in Maiden Lane, Covent Garden, and was regarded as a child prodigy.  He studied at the Royal Academy of Arts from the age of 14, and opened his own gallery at the age of 29, around the age of his Saturn Return.  In his life, he travelled a great deal, both in the U.K. and Europe, always with a sketchbook in hand (leaving a substantial number as a legacy). His work was championed by art critic John Ruskin.  He was very close to his father, and grew morose after his father died in 1828.  We know that he had two relationships, one with a widowed housekeeper Sarah Danby, and another with widow Sophia Caroline Booth.  Sarah Danby had two daughters, of whom he is believed to be the father.

Style

Though he began his life as a painter copying the prevailing Romantic and Realist trends, in his later years he developed a unique way of depicting light, for example in “Rain, Steam and Speed – The Great Western Railway” (1844), a style we know and love.  He was a great influence on Monet and other Impressionists, in moving away from Realism.

He was memorably portrayed by the actor Timothy Spall in Mike Leigh’s film of 2014.

John Constable (1776 – 1837)

(his art) “is to be found under every hedge, and in every land, and therefore nobody thinks it worth picking up”.

~ John Constable

Birth Chart

John Constable’s Sun was in the neighbouring sign of Gemini, but there is no overlap between their Sun signs in their charts, even though Turner had Uranus at 0 degrees Gemini.  Constable was wedded to the rural Suffolk, whereas Turner was born in the city of London. They were born a year apart, and highlights the idea that often those of genius in their field often incarnate in a similar timeframe in order to push each other’s talents to the hilt.  Constable’s Sun was loosely conjunct Jupiter, giving him a more optimistic nature intrinsically.  John had the application of the Sun trine Saturn, but also the wide imagination of Sun closely square Neptune.  His Venus was exactly conjunct Mars, which may depict the sensuous appreciation of nature in his work.  Like Turner, he had Venus conjunct Uranus, but his social life was more conventional than Turner’s. Mars conjunct Uranus may have given him the ability to engineer the realism in his work. His work, though spectacular, did not tend to move from the Realism of the day.  Other strengths in his chart were Saturn trine Uranus and Neptune trine Pluto.

Life and Work

Constable was born in East Berholt, on the river Stour in Suffolk, and has given rise to the area being called “Constable Country”.  His father was a corn merchant, and owner of a local mill.  In his youth, he began sketching in his locality:

“the sound of water escaping from mill dams etc., willows, old rotten planks, slimy posts, and brickwork, I love such things.” 

That highlights the sensuality of his natal exact conjunction of Venus and Mars.  He was clear from an early age that he wanted to pursue art, and his father helped set him up financially, but he was never hugely successful financially.

Next to Turner’s later work, his work is masterfully realistic and detailed, as in the painters he admired such as Gainsborough, but the colours are more muted than Turner’s.  His strength, I feel is in portraying a quintessential rural Englishness, and that is what appealed to his continental contemporaries.

He did not have such a prolific output as Turner, and took far longer to be recognized in the art world.  His most famous work “The Hay Wain” was painted in 1821.  Though he exhibited from 1806, he was not elected to the Royal Academy of Arts until he was 52.  On the continent, he influenced the Barbizon School.

Like Turner, he did travel, in England and Europe, and some of his notable works are of the Salisbury area, including Stonehenge.

Marriage

He met his future wife early in life, and the relationship deepened in 1809.  There was family opposition to the match on both sides, relating to the fact that she came from a wealthy family.  He eventually married Maria Bicknell in 1816.  Their honeymoon on the south coast stimulated his ability to paint seascapes and open skies.   This period also increased his emotional range.  He sold his first significant canvas in 1819, entitled “The White Horse”.  At the time, his progressed Sun was sextile his natal Venus in Gemini.  This sale enabled him to be elected an associate of the Royal Academy, and encouraged him to paint on a grand scale.  “The Hay Wain” was exhibited two years later.  It made a huge impression on the French painter Eugene Delacroix.

Meanwhile, his wife’s health was faltering.  They moved to Brighton in the hope that it would improve the condition of tuberculosis.  She bore him seven children, and as the sea air had not proved to be of any great help, they moved back to Hampstead.  It was the year 1818, and she died in November.  This is the same year that Turner lost his father: a more complete astrological study may uncover an astrological correlation, in the movements of the outer planets.  At her death, the North Node was on Constable’s natal Saturn in Libra. He wrote:

“hourly do I feel the loss of my departed Angel—God only knows how my children will be brought up…the face of the World is totally changed to me”.

He dressed in black, and tragically, he was left to care for his seven children.  His work suffered, in his anguish.  He died in 1837 of heart failure.

He was elected to the Royal Academy in February 1829, at the age of 52. In 1831 he was appointed Visitor at the Royal Academy, where he seems to have been popular with the students.

Relationship between Turner and Constable

Turner’s Mercury was sextile Constable Mars, a rivalrous but stimulating combination!

Turner’s Venus was trine Constable’s Pluto, a more constructive interaspect.

Turner’s Neptune squared Constable’s Sun, accentuating Constable’s own sensitivities.

Turner’s Mercury was sextile Constable’s Venus – an implied conversation.

In a symbol of their rivalry, in 1832 at the Royal Academy Turner made a last minute addition to his painting “Helvoetsluys” by adding a bright red buoy.  Constable’s reaction was “He has been in here and fired a gun”.  Constable was exhibiting a painting of the opening of Waterloo Bridge.

Exhibition

The Exhibition “Turner and Constable: Rivals and Originals” runs from Thursday 27 November 2025 to 12 April 2026.  Hubby and I have just bought our tickets.  Hurry if you are interested, as we discovered they are booked up until February, already!

I am a wholehearted fan of Turner, but very much appreciate the quintessentially English quality of Constable’s work.  Turner may be a national treasure, but the more abstract nature of his work does not achieve that unique place that Constable holds.

“The climate emergency gives a renewed urgency to their work.  Their influence can be seen in the cracking icebergs and crumbling coastlines of Emma Stibbon’s paintings and  the elemental installations of Olafur Eliasson.”

~ the Guardian leader

Aspects

It’s a Venusian day.  All three astrological features today involve Venus (so particularly pertinent to Taureans and Librans).  And the fourth feature of the week also involves Venus…So an art blog is a suitable subject.

Today Uranus opposed Venus in the early hours.  Any attempts to persuade another of your point of view may lead to intransigence or detachment on their part.  Someone around you may be displaying skittish behaviour.  There may be strange social encounters, too.  Be clear from your heart, to avoid unnecessary misunderstandings, as cross currents and crossed purposes can occur.   Venus opposite Uranus also neatly encapsulates the idea of an art rivalry.  Your dreams in the night may encapsulate such competition (mine did, as it happens!)

At breakfast-time, Venus was trine Neptune, so some elements of rivalry may have been washed away through spiritual alignment.  Inspiration and spirituality uplift proceedings.  Whatever your art form, it can be enhanced today (especially dance).  In relationship, there is a potential for spiritual bonding.  The effect of Neptune may be stronger than the effect of Uranus.

This evening, Venus moves into Sagittarius.  You may be in party mood, whether in person, socially distanced gatherings, or in virtual reality.  Venus in Sagittarius ensures that the mood stays around, right through till Christmas Eve.  It is there if you need it.  Venus in Sagittarius is a good-will-to-all men and women vibe.  Keep it going.

Then we are into December…On Tuesday (December 2^nd) Venus will be sextile with Pluto.  This aspect has the capacity to get to the root of a problem, be it Love and/or Money, both of which are represented by aspects of Venus and Pluto.  It could be a time of difficult but rewarding soul searching with loved ones.  In finance, there could be hard won but satisfying bargaining and balancing – a suitable day for Rachel Reeves to make her case.  (Laura Kuenssberg gave her a grilling this morning, then had a cosy chat with Kemi Badenoch).  If you are an artist or musician, you could take a step further in your art, and deepen the value and content of the material you are working with.

We then build up to a Full Moon at 13 degrees Gemini on Thursday (4^th).  The tussle of Moon in Gemini and Sun in Sagittarius is a tussle over communication, and that is the principle which can also bring them to a whole.  You may feel or see acutely the two sides of a story, e.g. some of the polarities occurring in the news and worldwide.  With the Moon being in Gemini, however, you may feel you cannot handle a depth emotional approach at this moment of time.

Friday (5^th) presents us with a square between the Sun and the Nodal Axis.  This is a challenge for us to stay on our karmic path even if group pressure tries to sway our individuality.  We have to find a way to honour our own way, while staying in integrity with society or outside pressures.  It may present as a power struggle, but can be an opportunity to find higher solutions.

On the same day, Mars trines Chiron.  You may find that to be a useful extra in your toolbox.  It combines physicality and healing.  Qijong and Tai Chi would be good combinations of movement and healing if you practise them.  Active projects may have healing applications, and healing initiatives will have a dynamic energy.

At the end of the week, Saturday (6^th) brings a trine between Mercury and Jupiter, which can restore sanity and optimism.  This aspect can bring good news, which is welcome at any time.  It can bring productivity, and good conversation.  Mercury trine Jupiter expands our minds and philosophies.  This is an upbeat vibe mentally, and can bring opportunities.  It is also helpful for writing projects and studying, so you may make progress on such projects.

The week in bullet points:

• Today – relationship and money focus: estrangement, harmony, then sociability
• Tuesday – profitable deep soul-searching
• Thursday – emotional high tide
• Friday – honouring karma; movement meditation
• Saturday – open-mindedness and progress

Strictly Come Dancing – Part 3

The standard in the ballroom continues to be high.  I was sad to see Vicky Pattison go last week – I felt she had much more to give.  There were three contestants left who I had not written about, but one of them has had to withdraw from the competition due to injury.  I will start with her…

La Voix

La Voix injured her foot last week (as a drag queen she prefers the pronoun she when in drag, but he when out of drag).

Very masculine chart, for someone who does female so well!  Sun in Aries, the very male sign, exactly trine Mars, the very male planet.  Sun closely trine the North Node, a performing karmic mission, with leadership potential.  Mars conjunct Jupiter, energy combined with enthusiasm, equalling Gusto!  Mars closely squaring Uranus, some unusual sexual features – many people have this aspect, and often it just means electrical energy.  Mars trine Neptune – the ability to combine movement and meditation, produces a good flow in dance.  Mars exactly conjunct the North Node, meaning more leadership potential.

La Voix was born Christopher Dennis and grew up in Stockton-on-Tees.  He studied drama at Brunel University of London, then trained in musical theatre at Urdang Academy.  He is known from Britain’s Got Talent (2014), and RuPaul’s Drag Race.  He excels at the art of make-up and has his own range of make-up.

La Voix was partnered with Aljaz Skorjanic, a veteran pro dancer, who returned last year after a break.  I described him in 2014 as “an out and out Capricorn with several planets in that sign, but normally fairly lucky with Sun exactly trine Jupiter.”  He is married to Jeanette Manrara, a professional dancer, who is one of the names in the hat to take over the role of Tess or Claudia when they leave the presenting role.

La Voix and Aljaz have an enthusiastic interaspect of La Voix’ Jupiter opposite Aljaz’ Sun, and an exciting sextile made up of Aljaz’ Venus to La Voix’ Uranus.

The transits for La Voix’ foot injury show up Neptune (foot issues) opposite his natal Jupiter – uncertainty.  But on the plus side, Saturn and Jupiter trine his natal Uranus (the series has been good for her/him in their profile.  And Chiron trined La Voix’ natal Neptune (all about the feet).  To be fair, although it would have been his dream to get to Blackpool, he knew his days were numbered in the contest.

We do not have a birth time for La Voix, and the injury and disappointment may show up better in a complete chart

Amber Davies

Amber replaced Dani Dyer at the last minute in the contest.  She has the musicality of Sun in Libra, and the dance prowess of Mercury closely trine Neptune (planet of dance).  The judges have praised her for being able to put their criticism into practical learning.  Her Sun square Jupiter makes her very adventurous in life.  She also has a chart which gives her the ability to be strategic: notably, Saturn sextile Uranus, Saturn trine Pluto and Uranus exactly sextile Pluto.  She also has performing talent: as shown by the Sun conjunct her karmic mission North Node.

Amber was born in Denbigh, and like La Voix, trained at the Urdang Academy.  We first heard of her when she won Love Island in 2017.  Since then, she has performed in musical theatre and in Dancing on Ice.

She is paired with Nikita Kuzmin who has an unaspected Sun in Capricorn, which may mean he is a free spirit.  His Moon is in musical Libra, and he has a dynamic conjunction of Mars, Venus and Uranus in Aquarius.

Amber’s Saturn is sextile Nikita’s Venus (faith and loyalty in each other), and also sextile his Mars, a disciplined way of working together.  Her Mars is square to his natal Chiron, so there may be some incident or injury prone-ness between them.  However, it hasn’t shown up as a problem yet, and they have danced together for some time.  Her North Node is trine his natal Uranus, so they may have a karmic link, but definitely operate on a high intuitive level in relation to each other in partnership.

In their transits, at this point of the contest, Amber has Pluto sextile her Pluto (self-empowerment); Neptune opposite her natal Venus (acute musical and dance sensitivity); Saturn sextile her Neptune (grounding her spirituality); and Jupiter square her Neptune (equally expanding her spirituality)

As for Nikita now, Mars is trine his Saturn, so he is able to combine a lot of effort and his natural discipline to good effect.  The North Node is trine with his Chiron, so he is in the middle of a healing journey.

For the final, which Amber could well make, Pluto will be sextile her natal Saturn (a profound life experience or achievement);  Saturn will still be sextile her Neptune; Jupiter will be sextile her natal Mercury (her brightness will shine); and Mars will be square her Saturn (some fly in the ointment, e.g. she could get to the final, but not win).

Nikita will have Neptune sextile his Neptune (bliss on the dancefloor!); and Uranus trine his Neptune (high dance performance); both powerful, long range transits.  The lack of personal transits also highlights his freespiritedness and its expression.

A good chance at the Gllitterball, for these two!

Karen Carney

“I’m from Birmingham: my mum works at Sainsbury’s, my dad is a fire-fighter. We keep it real. We know who we are. I don’t need a Bentley; I don’t need a Rolex”

~ Karen Carney

Ex-footballer Karen brought out incredible superlatives from the judges last night, indicating that she was dancing to a highly professional standard.  The strange thing was, Craig could still not bring himself to use the No. 10 paddle.  He withdrew that extra point for some reason, but the rest would have given her more than 10 if they could.  So, again, we are looking at a serious contender.

Starting with her Sun sign, Leo, she has the Performer Archetype.  She also has Venus and Mars in this competitive sign.  And the Sun trine the North Node accentuates performing and competing as part of her karmic mission.  She has a freestanding unaspected Mercury, giving her an independence of mind.  The Sun and Mars trine Saturn give her tremendous self-discipline.  Jupiter trine Neptune gives her faith.  Neptune squares her Nodal Axis, so although she has not danced up to now in this lifetime, she may have a past life link to dance.

She is partnered with Carlos Gu

“It’s a dream pairing because he’s exactly what I need. My aim was to grow my confidence and show a different side to myself. Carlos is the only person in the cast I believe could do that for me.”

~ Karen Carney

Sadly, we do not even have a birth date for Carlos, who was born in China, so that’s how far my astro-analysis can go. [It’s going to be a mercifully short blog today, folks!]

So all we have to go on are Karen’s transits.  For today, she has Chiron trine her Uranus, a sign that she is overcoming a long-standing spinal condition.  Carlos broke down in tears after their performance, knowing how hard she has worked to overcome it, and receiving such high praise from the judges.  Natally, she has Chiron opposite Uranus.

For the final, as a strong contender:  she will still have that trine from Chiron to her Uranus supporting her.  She has a difficult transit just after the final, with Mars transiting her natal Neptune and squaring her Nodal Axis.  The final push may mean some acute recovery time.  Again, I think she is someone who will reach the final, but not quite lift the Glitterball.

I would still like Lewis Cope to win, and therefore admit to bias.  However, his transits are not perfect either, so I will happily leave it to the Glitterball Gods to decide!

Aspects

Today’s aspect is the Sun sextile Pluto, bearing a significant and potent message, possibly even a wake-up call.  This sextile on its own can bring powerful help.  If you dig deep, you can find the treasure you need.  It is a profound aspect which may help to show us the direction we need to solve our collective problems, and understanding the meaning behind our dilemmas.  This sextile can bring a profound air of quiet contemplation.  Use the opportunity of this aspect to strengthen your situation… For example, you may be contemplating giving up something in order to create space in your life for something else.

Tomorrow, Monday (24^th) brings a square between Mars and the Nodal Axis, so it is a day for preparing your lines of action.  Karma may dictate that you cannot stand and stare, you’ll be prompted to action, whether willingly or unwillingly!

We have a congenial conjunction on Tuesday (25^th), from Mercury and Venus at 22 degrees Scorpio.  This may bring some happy socializing, with great conversations. It is good for cafe culture, is ideal for artistic or literary endeavours, or negotiations.  Your communications will have an artistic flair, so it’s a good time to get creative.

Venus trines Jupiter on Wednesday (26^th). one of the brightest aspects of the year.  Today could be a very social time.  The day may help in creating good memories.  It could be party time, too.  Close relationships are favoured, and romance may be in the air.

A few minutes before midnight on the same day Venus trines Saturn, perfecting a Grand Water Trine.  This can bring hope, of people coming together with more commitment and loyalty.  Venus can provide a softening role to a hard line stance.  It is conciliatory, which may be just what is needed.  Relationships may need serious resolving, and this aspect can help, whether on a personal level, or between nations.

Towards the end of the week, Saturn is Stationary prior to turning Direct on Friday (28^th).  This may be experienced as a relief to some, especially for Capricornians, and may release some of their chains or burdens.  Climbing up that mountain may seem slightly easier. Depending on where this turnaround falls in your chart (25 degrees Pisces), your efforts, struggles and hard work in that area may start to bear fruit, progress, and just get easier.

Finally, on Saturday (29^th) Mercury also is Stationary prior to turning Direct, so you may feel a tide turning, in a positive sense.  You may feel that you can catch up on chores which had been put on the back burner.  If you have been struggling with computers, I.T. and broadband connections, or delays in communications you may feel a sense of relief.  You can certainly pick up momentum on some projects which involve paperwork and documentation, and make some more essential journeys.

The week in bullet points:

• Today – contemplating deeply
• Tomorrow – prepare your lines of action
• Tuesday – congeniality
• Wednesday – good social connections; a softening
• Friday – efforts showing green shoots
• Saturday – communications eased

Scorpio Archetypes

I am writing about the Scorpio Archetypes today, before the month of Scorpio is out!  This is the ninth of my series specifically on astrological Archetypes.  It is time to embrace the potential of this sign, turning the spotlight on its Archetypes.

A few words about Scorpios: They are known for their sting, but I have known more evolved types who have no sting, but rather a desire to get to the roots of things, which can make other people uncomfortable.  This is how its transformative planetary ruler Pluto goes about its work.  Finding Scorpio Archetypes, like the nature of the sign itself, can be a bit obscure.

So, following, are some thoughts I highlighted back in my 2016 blog, and then some examples of Scorpio and its Archetypes, including from history:

“Detective

The Detective Archetype is well suited to Scorpio because of its love of mysteries and crime fiction, and the forensic mind exemplified where someone has Mercury in Scorpio particularly.  Where someone has say several planets in Scorpio in the 12^th House you may suspect they have the Detective Archetype, or even its relative the Spy Archetype.  It’s fun to conjecture.

Femme Fatale

Whereas Libra is the Lover, the Scorpio magnetism and art of seduction can sometimes be misused.  Caroline Myss says of this Archetype: “Highlights the erotic energy of the feminine.  Opens your heart when your dependency is rejected”, for its Light Attribute.

Vampire

Scorpio is traditionally able to use resources cast off by others, e.g. material resources and money (e.g. in banking and insurance) or literally energies.  It is associated with hypnotism, both in the positive and the negative applications.  It recycles energy, and therefore can be associated with psychic draining if it is not in balance or equal exchange.  There is also the association with the vampire bat, and its fangs (back to images of Halloween…).  Every Archetype has a positive side, remember!  In spiritual healing, one province of Scorpio, there is the capacity to remove unwanted energies.”

Other Archetypes

Careers

Of course Careers are not Archetypes, and Archetypes are not Careers…But it is worth looking at what makes an occupation of a Scorpion.  In doing so, you may spot new Archetypes yourself.

Scorpios can be found in almost any career, as long as it engages their passion.  Sometimes they will embrace an element of danger…There is an inner core of sureness about their chosen path.  In for example the acting profession, we had Richard Burton, with the deep sonorous voice characteristic of Scorpio, and the deep passion on and off screen.

The Firebrand

Examples of this are found under the next section.

The Spy

Related to the Detective, described in the earlier section.  Scorpio is a purveyor of secrets.

Forensic Scientist

Anything Forensic (e.g. Forensic Psychiatry) qualifies.  Scorpio is a forensic sign!  It is well-known that they like to delve into and solve mysteries.

Psychologist

I know many Scorpios in the psychotherapeutic industry.  It is their area of healing, which brings me to…

Healer

In the zodiac colour wheel, Scorpio is the colour Indigo, between Blue for Libra and Purple for Sagittarius.

In the book “What Colour Are You?” by Lila Bek, she states:

“INDIGO [in the aura] indicates a past life as a healer and if it appears in the triple crown we are probably now a doctor of some kind.”

Applied to a specific area of healing, she writes:

“INDIGO rarely appears in the BLUE throat centre.  It may indicate someone who heals with the voice, a hypnotist perhaps, or a mother who is singing a lullaby to her child.”

The Inner Healer is represented in the birth chart by the asteroid Chiron, but it has not been assigned to a particular sign.

Shared Archetypes

Scorpio shares the Warrior Archetype with Aries, and the Poet Archetype with Pisces.

Poets who wrote in a characteristically sensuous way were John Keats (themes of nature, love and death) and Sylvia Plath (themes of love and death).

Volcano

In a more frivolous example, Scorpio John Cleese illustrated what can happen when the volcanic nature of Scorpio gets out of hand, in creating Basil Fawlty.  It is tempting to describe Basil as his alter ego, but I would not dare.  It is difficult to imagine anyone else playing Basil.  John has Sun, Mercury and Venus in Scorpio, but his Sun at the beginning of Scorpio is conjunct his North Node at the end of Libra (3 degrees apart), which suggests that potent expression.

Historical/more in-depth Examples

Research Scientist

Marie Curie (b 7/11/1867 – 4/7/1934

Marie had the Sun, Midheaven, Saturn, Venus and Mars in Scorpio, so was heavy with the sign.  In addition, her Sun was exactly opposite Pluto and her Moon closely sextile Pluto, adding even more Scorpionic flavour to her chart.  She had an exact square between Uranus and Neptune, enabling her to capture complexity through her science.  The planet Uranus was closely sextile her North Node.  She worked with radioactive materials, Uranium and Polonium. She worked for four years extracting one-tenth of a gram of radium from one ton of uranium mine waste.  Uranus was exactly opposite her Descendant, a picture of her relationship with these elements, and her relationship with Pierre Curie, which ended with his sudden death.  She herself died of radiation poisoning, but not before she had earned two Nobel prizes.  Her transits at the first prize in 1903 showed: Chiron sextile her natal Chiron with Jupiter exactly on her Chiron, the South Node on her Neptune (showing reward for past work), and the Nodal Axis square her Ascendant/Descendant axis and Uranus.

Two Firebrands:

Benvenuto Cellini (3/11/1500 – 13/2/1571)

Artist Benvenuto Cellini is often referred to as a “Firebrand”.  He had a very Scorpionic chart with Mercury, Venus, Mars, the Sun and ruler Pluto all packed in that sign.  He led a colourful and stormy life, and an operetta “The Firebrand of Florence” was dedicated to him.  Pluto was conjunct his South Node, which suggested that he had conducted previous lives in the same manner!  Artistically, he was known as a prominent goldsmith and sculptor during the Italian Renaissance.

Zack Polanski (b. 2/11/1982)

Written recently: “Zack has a specialist’s chart, planets bunched up and concentrated in a segment of the zodiac, which helps to provide the passion for his cause: who doesn’t want the planet to succeed?  His Sun is in Scorpio, one of the Warrior signs, and he exhibits one of its possible archetypes, The Firebrand.”..[His Sun] is trine the North Node, providing leadership qualities.  He has Mercury sextile Mars… giving him a quick and incisive wit, but also in his case, he talks ten to the dozen, as you could expect with this aspect.”

His zeal is dedicated to growing the popularity of the Green Party, and reforming politics.

Two Hypnotists:

The ability to transform energy is often constructively used, for example in regression or hypnotherapy.

Brian Weiss (b. 6/11/1944)

Brian Weiss (born 6^th November) is a doctor who has written many books on regression and one on future life progression.  Brian has Sun, Mars and Mercury in Scorpio.  Pluto also squares his natal Sun, adding to his Scorpionic/Plutonic intensity.  His books are all worth reading, especially “One Soul, Many Bodies”, and I did attend one of his workshops several years ago.

Paul McKenna (b. 8/11/1963)

Hypnotist Paul McKenna (born 8^th November) whose best sellers include “I can make you Sleep”/lose weight etc.”  Paul has the Sun exactly conjunct Neptune in Scorpio, and also conjunct Mercury in that sign.  He has the Sun closely trine North Node – leadership and showmanship.  He also has the North Node trine Chiron, indicating the Healer Archetype.

You may notice that with your Scorpio family, friends and acquaintances, some of them have more than one of these Archetypes.  While the Sun is in Scorpio (until 22^nd November), you can connect with your own Scorpio Archetypes, or Plutonic qualities if you do not have any Scorpio planets, and explore their potential.  Scorpio and Capricorn are probably the most difficult signs to inhabit and negotiate in incarnation, and while one is not supposed to have favourites, I always do say that Scorpio is my favourite sign.

Next week: Strictly Come Dancing – Part 3

Aspects

Balancing out from last week’s dearth of aspects, we have a good number this week.  As it happens, balance is a theme for the week’s aspects generally.

Tomorrow (Monday 17^th) we have a marvellous trine between the Sun and Jupiter.  This is one of the brightest aspects of the year.  If you have been feeling stressed, you may experience a welcome distraction.  It’s a happy-go-lucky aspect where circumstances allow.  So whatever lights your candle today, grasp the opportunity.  Good cheer, laughter, and adventure may characterize this time.

As Jupiter is still in a balancing trine with Saturn (though now retrograde), the Sun trines Saturn on Monday as well, creating a Grand Water Trine.  That provides a quieter and more constructive space, solid and productive, so you can see that much can be accomplished with the previous aspect.  If you are engaged in creativity, it can help ensure that the creativity works on a practical level.  Simplifying your plans, or making economies, may make them more workable. This is especially useful to bear in mind if you own a business, and are considering staffing and resources.

As if to further cement and consolidate the achievements of the day, Mercury sextiles Pluto in the evening.  The Scorpio Archetypes in my main piece go to show the power that is possible whenever Pluto lends a helpful hand.  This aspect brings a profound touch to your communications.  It is a harmonious aspect which can produce profound honouring of the gravity of a situation if necessary, and enabling meaningful debate to occur.  It is a good space for reading something profound.  Maybe there is something in your pile of pending books you have been putting off, if so, now’s the time to tackle it.

You will need a timetable for Wednesday (19th):

3.20 a.m. – Mercury in Scorpio

Mercury enters Scorpio, bringing greater intensity, depth and rigour to our mental functioning and purpose.  The mental outlook is more forensic in nature, and looks deeper than the surface, than was characterized under Mercury in Libra.  You may have more courage to look at what really matters, and to worry less about how things appear to others

Morning – Venus trine North Node.

This aspect can make way for personal karmic breakthroughs (e.g. through forgiveness).  This links karma with harmony and love, and reminds us that love is a force underlying a great deal of human interaction.  In the words of Jo Cox  “we are far more united and have far more in common than that which divides us”.  It also reminds us of the Hindu law of ahimsa, or harmlessness, required to neutralize and promote good karma.

11.45 a.m. – Mercury opposite Uranus

Uranus to Mercury brings surprises, but also split opinions. In your everyday life, you may be trying to figure out the answer to a puzzle, or be downloading information from your superconscious mind.  In trying to implement ideas during the day, you may encounter technical hitches and glitches, though.  The last manifestation of this aspect brought about a Microsoft outage.

12.22 Hrs – Mercury trine Neptune

Despite hitches and glitches, things may then fall into place spiritually, with some higher insight. This may result in an increased readiness to talk about a sensitive subject.  This trine brings mental inspiration, transcendent wisdom, higher harmony, spiritual journeys.  It’s a kind astrological note.

Thursday (20^th) brings a New Moon at 28 degrees Scorpio in the morning.  This enables a new start, which can be seen as a sign of Regeneration.  There may be a certain amount of letting go required, before the fresh start can be established.  It’s a good day for spotting Scorpio Archetypes in others, or connecting with your own!

The intensity of Scorpio is shored up by a conjunction between the Sun and Mercury, also at 28 degrees Scorpio, and also in the morning.  If it’s your birthday, it will be a humdinger!  The conjunction will reinforce the theme of concentrating our minds on the deeper issues.  The Sun and Mercury together may come up with some insightful solutions. Hope may be rekindled and the light at the end of a tunnel glimpsed.

But the most important aspect of the day (and week) comes in the early afternoon, and is a big balancing aspect, in the shape of Uranus sextile Neptune.  This aspect balances Intuition and Psychism, enabling those two qualities to rise to a higher level through harmony and co-operation.  It enables us to handle greater levels of complexity, and possibly make some sense of what is going on  in the world.  Information may be made available to us, which we might not have previously been ready for.

On Friday (21^st) be ready for the unexpected.  Uranus opposing the Sun will require new insight, resolve and conviction.  You have to get with the programme, or be left behind.  Maybe you are challenged by an upgrade on your phone, and can’t use it until you sort it out!

Again, Neptune comes to our rescue, at lunchtime, with a trine to the Sun.  This may give rise to a positive day for the expression of spirituality.  It would be a graceful day, if it were not for the disruption of Uranus:  therefore expand your consciousness, and allow your imagination to embellish your work, or project in hand.

The aspects for the last day of the week (Saturday 22^nd) are merciful, if not fortuitous.  First the Sun goes into Sagittarius which ushers in the season of celebration.  ‘Tis the season to be jolly, at least in the preparation and anticipation of Christmas, though ingenuity will be needed all round recognizing the need to draw in the economic horns.  Many will have no choice but to do so, but it throws us even more on to the spirit of the matter,  and helps us to focus on our values.  Sagittarius also represents philosophy, working out your ethics, values and how you feel about the meaning of life, and religion.  Despite the need to balance the books, the general principle of Sagittarius is expansion and generosity.

The evening brings two trines, the first being Mercury trine Saturn.  This combines mental work with practicality, and brings focus and realism to the mental activities.  So it is a good day for making plans.  Serious conversations can also safely take place under this aspect.  It favours book keeping after a day’s shopping and spending!

And then, literally the last hour of the week, a Gift from the Universe: Mercury trine Jupiter.

This aspect will help business transactions, and expand our horizons, minds and philosophies.  This is an upbeat vibe mentally, one that takes in great wads of information, produces good ideas and may incline one to travel.  There may be media opportunities, for those so inclined, and it could be a productive day.  A cause for optimism may be found.  It may also assist nations reaching out to each other.

The week in bullet points:

• Tomorrow – happy-go-lucky; a constructive space; profound communications
• Wednesday – greater intensity; karmic harmony; technical hitches; spiritual insight
• Thursday – new beginning; deep perception; balance and complexity
• Friday – expect the unexpected; spiritual expression
• Saturday – optimism; knuckling down to paperwork; expanded minds